WO2022172997A1 - Support orthosis - Google Patents

Abstract

A support orthosis (100) comprises: an attachment part (10) to be attached to an article (2) worn by a wearer; a link mechanism (20) that is connected to the attachment part, is changed to a first state in response to a crouching motion of the wearer upon being brought into contact with the floor and receiving the body weight of the wearer, and is changed to a second state in response to a standing-up motion of the wearer; and a sheet (30) that is connected to the link mechanism (20) and is capable of supporting the buttocks of the wearer. The link mechanism has a link member (24) that is brought into contact with the floor in response to a crouching motion of the wearer and is separated from the floor in response to a standing-up motion of the wearer. The link member is disposed lateral to a thigh of the wearer in a standing posture of the wearer.

Description

support brace

The present disclosure relates to support equipment.

There is a support system that supports the wearer's crouching posture (see Patent Document 1).

WO2021/021679

In the conventional support system, lever arms are provided in front of the wearer's thighs. As this lever arm is pushed by the thigh, the linkage of the support system is engaged. When the lever arm is arranged in front of the wearer's thigh in this manner, the wearer may feel that the lever arm is an obstacle.

The present disclosure provides a support brace capable of operating a link mechanism without lever arms arranged in front of the wearer's thighs.

The support device according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes an attachment portion attached to the wearer's clothing, and is connected to the attachment portion, and changes to the first state by receiving the wearer's weight according to the wearer's crouching motion. and a link mechanism that changes to the second state in accordance with the stand-up motion of the wearer; and a seat connected to the link mechanism. The link mechanism has a link member that contacts the floor when the wearer squats down, receives the wearer's weight and changes state, and moves away from the floor when the wearer stands up. The link member is arranged on the side of the wearer's thigh in the wearer's standing posture.

With the above means, the link mechanism can be operated without the lever arm placed in front of the wearer's thigh. By the means described above, the wearer's squatting posture can be supported, and the risk of hitting objects around the wearer in the standing posture of the wearer is reduced.

It is a side view of support equipment concerning a 1st embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the support device of FIG. 1 from obliquely above; FIG. 4 is a side view showing the standing posture of the wearer wearing the support device; Fig. 10 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing support equipment; FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the seat, seat frame and arms of the support device; It is a side view which shows the seat frame and arm of support equipment. It is a side view which shows a wearer's squatting posture. It is a side view which shows operation|movement of support equipment. It is a side view which shows operation|movement of support equipment. It is a side view which shows operation|movement of support equipment. It is a side view which shows operation|movement of support equipment. It is a side view which shows operation|movement of support equipment. FIG. 11 is a side view showing a standing posture of a wearer wearing the support device according to the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing the support device according to the second embodiment; FIG. 11 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a third embodiment; It is a perspective view which shows the link mechanism of the support equipment which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic side view which shows the state which the link mechanism of the support equipment which concerns on 4th Embodiment closed. It is a schematic side view which shows the state which the link mechanism of the support equipment which concerns on 4th Embodiment opened. It is a side view which shows the support equipment which concerns on 5th Embodiment. FIG. 11 is a side view showing a standing posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 11 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 11 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a fifth embodiment; FIG. 21 is a rear view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a fifth embodiment; It is a side view of the support equipment which concerns on 6th Embodiment, and is a figure which shows the state corresponding to a wearer's standing posture. FIG. 11 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing a support device according to a sixth embodiment; It is a side view which shows the standing posture of the wearer who mounted the support equipment which concerns on a reference form. It is a side view which shows the crouching posture of the wearer who mounted the support equipment which concerns on a reference form. 1 is a side view of a wearer being supported by a conventional support device; FIG. FIG. 10 is a side view showing a standing posture of a wearer wearing a conventional support device;

(First embodiment)
First, a support device 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. FIG. 1 is a side view of the support device 100, FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the support device 100 obliquely from above, and FIG. 3 is a side view showing the standing posture of the wearer H wearing the support device 100. 4 is a side view showing a squatting posture of the wearer H wearing the support equipment 100. FIG. In addition, in each figure, the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction, which are three mutually orthogonal directions, may be illustrated. Also, in the description of the support device 100, the terms "front" and "back" may be used. "Front" and "rear" are based on the direction of the wearer H who wears the support device 100, and the "belly" is "front" and the "back" is "rear".

The support equipment 100 supports the squatting posture of the wearer H, and can receive part of the weight of the wearer H in the squatting posture. A support device 100 includes an attachment 10 , a link mechanism 20 and a seat 30 . The support device 100 includes multiple attachments 10 and multiple link mechanisms 20 . The multiple attachments 10 are spaced apart in the X-axis direction. The X-axis direction is along the width direction of the wearer H, for example. The width direction of the wearer is, for example, the direction in which the left and right feet face each other when the wearer H stands upright. The multiple link mechanisms 20 are spaced apart in the X-axis direction. The attachment 10 and the link mechanism 20 are arranged on both sides of the wearer H in the width direction.

The attachment 10 is an example of an attachment part that is attached to the wearer's H clothing. The attachment 10 has a clip 11 and can be attached to the belt 2 that is worn. The article to be worn is not limited to the belt 2, and may be other clothes such as pants and work clothes. The attachment 10 may be attachable to and detachable from the wearable item, and may be provided integrally with the belt 2, for example. The attachment 10 may have a fixing plate for fixing the link mechanism 20 .

The link mechanism 20 is, for example, a four-bar link mechanism. The link mechanism 20 may be a parallel link mechanism. The link mechanism 20 has links 21-24. Link 21 is an example of a first link and is connected to attachment 10 . The link 21 is bolted to the attachment 10, for example. The link 21 is a rod-shaped member and has a predetermined length.

The link 22 is an example of a second link, and is supported to be relatively swingable with respect to the link 21. Link 22 is connected to link 21 via revolute joint 25 . The rotary joint 25 has a rotary shaft extending in the X-axis direction. The rotary joint 25 connects the links 21 and 22 so that they can relatively swing. The link 21 and the link 22 are formed with a hole through which the rotating shaft of the rotary joint 25 is inserted. The rotation axis of the revolute joint 25 may be fixed to the link 21 or the link 22 .

The link 23 is an example of a third link, and is supported to be relatively swingable with respect to the link 21. Link 23 is connected to link 21 via revolute joint 26 . The rotary joint 26 has a rotary shaft extending in the X-axis direction. The rotary joint 26 connects the links 21 and 23 so that they can relatively swing. The link 21 and the link 23 are formed with a hole through which the rotating shaft of the rotary joint 26 is inserted.

The rotary joints 25 and 26 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the link 21. The rotary joint 25 is arranged at a position closer to the attachment 10 than the rotary joint 26 is. The revolute joint 26 is connected to the end of the link 21 remote from the attachment 10 .

The link 23 contacts the floor FL when the support equipment 100 supports the wearer's squatting posture. An upper end portion 23 a of the link 23 is connected to the link 21 . A lower end 23 b of the link 23 is the far end from the link 21 . In the crouching posture of the wearer H, the lower end portion 23b of the link 23 contacts the floor FL. The link 23 is an example of a link member that contacts the floor and receives the wearer's weight to change its posture when the wearer H squats down.

The link 24 is an example of a fourth link, and is connected to the link 22 via a rotary joint 27 and to the link 23 via a rotary joint 28, respectively. The upper end 24 a of the link 24 is connected to the lower end of the link 22 . The revolute joint 27 is connected to the lower end of the link 22 . The link 24 is connected to the link 22 via a revolute joint 27 and is relatively swingable with respect to the link 22 . The link 24 is an example of a link member that contacts the floor and receives the wearer's weight to change its posture when the wearer H squats down.

The rotary joint 28 is located at the intersection of the link 23 and the link 24 when the support device 100 is viewed from the side. Link 24 is relatively swingable with respect to link 23 . As the link 23 and the link 24 rotate relative to each other, the upper end 23a of the link 23 and the upper end 24a of the link 24 approach or separate, and the lower end 23b of the link 23 and the lower end 24b of the link 24 move toward each other. approach or separate.

The link mechanism 20 is transformable between an open state and a closed state. The open state is an example of a first state, and the closed state is an example of a second state. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 4, the open state is a state in which the lower end 23b of the link 23 and the lower end 24b of the link 24 are separated from each other. As shown in FIG. 3, the closed state is a state in which the lower end 23b of the link 23 and the lower end 24b of the link 24 are close to each other. When the wearer H is standing, the link mechanism 20 is closed, and when the wearer H is crouching, the link mechanism 20 is open.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the seat 30, seat frame 31 and arm 32B of the support equipment 100. FIG. FIG. 6 is a side view showing the seat frame 31 and the arm 32 of the support equipment 100. FIG. The arm 32B shown in FIG. 5 and the arm 32 shown in FIG. 6 have different arm angles. In FIG. 6, arm 32B is shown in phantom. The support equipment 100 includes a seat 30 on which the wearer H can sit, a seat frame 31 supporting the seat 30, and an arm 32 connected to the link mechanism 20. As shown in FIG. The support equipment 100 may be provided with an arm 32B instead of the arm 32.

The sheet 30 is arranged to cover the wearer's H buttocks while the wearer H is wearing the support equipment 100 . The seat 30 is arranged behind the buttocks of the wearer H when the wearer H is standing. The seat 30 is placed below the wearer's buttocks when the wearer H is in a squatting position.

The support equipment 100 includes a plurality of seat frames 31. The plurality of seat frames 31 are spaced apart in the width direction of the wearer H. The seat frame 31 may be curved along the shape of the wearer's H buttocks. The seat frames 31 are arranged on both sides of the seat 30 in the X-axis direction.

The seat frame 31 supports bars 33 and 34 extending in the X-axis direction. The bar 33 is an example of a first bar, and the bar 34 is an example of a second bar. Seat frame 31 is formed with holes 35 and 36 for supporting bars 33 and 34 . The hole 35 is an example of a first holding portion, and the hole 36 is an example of a second holding portion. The holes 35 and 36 are provided at both ends of the seat frame 31 in the longitudinal direction. The seat 30 is supported by a seat frame 31 via bars 33 and 34 . The sheet 30 is provided with bag- like portions 37 and 38 . The bag-shaped portions 37 and 38 are formed by folding back the ends of the sheet 30 to form a bag-like shape. The bag-shaped portion 37 is an example of the front end of the sheet 30 , and the bag-shaped portion 38 is an example of the rear end of the sheet 30 . Bars 33 and 34 are inserted through bag- like portions 37 and 38 . Note that the seat 30 is not limited to being supported via the bars 33 and 34, and the seat 30 may be directly attached to the seat frame 31.

The arm 32 protrudes from the seat frame 31 when viewed from the X-axis direction. Arm 32 is connected to link 24 via revolute joint 29 shown in FIG. The arm 32 is provided with a hole 39 through which the rotary shaft of the rotary joint 29 is inserted. The rotation axis of the revolute joint 29 extends in the X-axis direction. The arm 32 is connected by a rotary joint 29 and supported by the link 24 so as to be able to swing.

As shown in FIG. 6, the arm 32 is slanted more forward than the arm 32B. In the direction in which an imaginary straight line L1 passing through the holes 35 and 36 extends, the direction closer to the hole 35 is defined as the front, and the direction closer to the hole 36 is defined as the rear. The hole 39 provided in the arm 32 is located closer to the hole 35 than the hole 39 provided in the arm 32B. In other words, the rotation center of the arm 32 is positioned forward of the rotation center of the arm 32B.

The connecting portion 41 between the seat frame 31 and the arm 32 is positioned closer to the hole 35 than to the hole 36 . In other words, in the seat frame 31 , the length from the connecting portion 41 to the arm 32 to the hole 36 is longer than the length from the connecting portion 41 to the hole 35 .

FIG. 7 is a side view showing the squatting posture of the wearer, showing the position and direction of force transmitted from the wearer's buttocks. In addition, in FIG. 7, the support equipment 100 is simplified and illustrated. When the force Fhip acts on the seat frame 31 forward of the rotation center of the rotary joint 29, the seat frame 31 tends to move rearward. When the force Fhip acts on the seat frame 31 behind the center of rotation of the rotary joint 29, the seat frame 31 tends to move forward.

The seat frame 31 connected to the arm 32 shown in FIG. The force Fhip is likely to act on the portion. Therefore, the seat frame 31 can be easily moved to the front side and difficult to be moved to the rear side, so that the buttocks of the wearer H can be stably supported. If the seat frame 31 is likely to move rearward from the buttocks of the wearer H, the buttocks of the wearer H may fall onto the floor FL. In the support equipment 100, since the seat frame 31 is easily moved forward, the seat 30 is easily arranged under the buttocks, and the buttocks of the wearer H can be stably supported in the squatting posture of the wearer H.

Next, the operation of the support equipment 100 will be described. 8 to 12 are side views showing the operation of the support device 100. FIG. When the wearer changes from a standing position to a crouching position, the support brace 100 changes in sequence as shown in FIGS. 8-12.

In the standing posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 3, the link mechanism 20 is in a closed state and arranged substantially linearly. The attachment 10 is arranged near the center of the side of the wearer H when viewed in the X-axis direction. The lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are positioned behind or on the sides of the thighs of the wearer H when viewed in the X-axis direction. The lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 may be arranged so as to overlap the thighs of the wearer H when viewed from the X-axis direction. The lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are arranged above the wearer's H knees. The lower end portion 24b of the link 24 is arranged rearward and below the lower end portion 23b of the link 23 .

When the wearer H is standing, the arm 32 extends rearward from the rotary joint 29 . The seat frame 31 and the seat 30 are arranged in the Z-axis direction along the wearer's H buttocks. The Z-axis direction is along the vertical direction. The end portion 31b of the seat frame 31 is arranged at substantially the same height as the belt 2 . The end portion 31a of the seat frame 31 is arranged at a position higher than the lower end portions 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 8, when the wearer H is sitting down, the link mechanism 20 is starting to open, and the lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are starting to separate. The lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are located below the buttocks of the wearer H and behind the calves. In this state, the lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are located above the floor FL.

In the state shown in FIG. 8, the arm 32 is arranged so as to overlap the link 24 when viewed in the X-axis direction. The seat 30 and the seat frame 31 may be arranged along the horizontal direction. The end portion 31a of the seat frame 31 is arranged so as to be in contact with the wearer's H thighs. In this state, the seat frame 31 is arranged at approximately the same height as the wearer's H knees. At this time, the buttocks of the wearer H are positioned higher than the knees.

In the state shown in FIG. 9, the buttocks of the wearer H are arranged at a lower position than in the state shown in FIG. In this state, the knees, thighs and buttocks of the wearer H are positioned at approximately the same height. In this state, the lower end 24b of the link 24 is in contact with the floor FL, but the lower end 23b of the link 23 is not in contact with the floor FL. The lower ends 23b, 24b are located behind the wearer's heels and below the buttocks. The link 23 swings relative to the link 24, and the distance between the lower end 23b and the lower end 24b is larger than that shown in FIG.

In the state shown in FIG. 9, the arm 32 and the seat frame 31 are relatively swung with respect to the link 24 and moved forward from the state shown in FIG. The end portion 31a of the seat frame 31 is located above the end portion 31b. The end 31a is located behind the knee and below the thigh.

In the state shown in FIG. 10, the buttocks of the wearer H are arranged at a lower position than in the state shown in FIG. In this state, the link mechanism 20 is more open than in the state shown in FIG. The link 23 swings relative to the link 24, and the lower end 23b of the link 23 moves further forward than the state shown in FIG. In the state shown in FIG. 10, the distance between lower end 23b and lower end 24b is greater than in the state shown in FIG. A lower end portion 23b of the link 23 is arranged at a position overlapping the heel of the wearer H when viewed in the X-axis direction. In this state, the lower end portion 23b is not in contact with the floor FL.

In the state shown in FIG. 11, the buttocks of the wearer H are arranged at a lower position than in the state shown in FIG. In this state, the link mechanism 20 is more open than in the state shown in FIG. The link 23 swings relative to the link 24, and the lower end 23b of the link 23 moves further forward than in the state shown in FIG. In the state shown in FIG. 11, the distance between lower end 23b and lower end 24b is greater than in the state shown in FIG. A lower end portion 23b of the link 23 is arranged at a position closer to the toe than the heel of the wearer H when viewed in the X-axis direction. In this state, the lower end portion 23b is not in contact with the floor FL.

In the crouching posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 12, the buttocks of the wearer H are arranged at a lower position than in the state shown in FIG. In this state, the link mechanism 20 is more open than in the state shown in FIG. The link 23 swings relative to the link 24, and the lower end 23b of the link 23 moves further forward than in the state shown in FIG. In the state shown in FIG. 12, the distance between lower end 23b and lower end 24b is greater than in the state shown in FIG. A lower end portion 23b of the link 23 is arranged at a position close to the toes of the wearer H when viewed in the X-axis direction. In this state, the lower end portion 23b is in contact with the floor FL.

In the crouching posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 12, the buttocks of the wearer H are supported by the seat 30 . In this state, the longitudinal direction of the arm 32 is arranged along the vertical direction. The buttocks of the wearer H may be arranged behind the connecting portion 41 between the arm 32 and the seat frame 31 when viewed in the X-axis direction. The end portion 31a of the seat frame 31 may be arranged between the thigh and the calf when viewed in the X-axis direction.

With such a support device 100, when the wearer H lowers his waist, the link mechanism 20 also descends according to the position of the belt 2. After the lower end portion 24b of the link 24 comes into contact with the floor FL, the distance between the lower end portion 14b and the belt 2 is reduced in the vertical direction, thereby moving the rotary joint 27 forward. At this time, the upper end portion 24a of the link 24 moves further forward than the lower end portion 24b, and the link 24 inclines. The rotary joints 27 and 26 move away from each other in the Y-axis direction, and the rotary joints 25 and 26 move closer together in the Z-axis direction.

As a result, the link 23 rotates about the rotary joint 28, the upper end 23a moves backward, and the lower end 23b moves forward. The link mechanism 20 is opened such that the lower end 23b of the link 23 is separated from the lower end 24b of the link 24. As shown in FIG.

In this way, in the support equipment 100, when the wearer H lowers his/her waist, the link 24 contacts the floor F, and the posture of the link mechanism 20 can be changed. Even if the support device 100 does not have a lever arm in front of the thigh, the link mechanism 20 can be opened in conjunction with the movement of the wearer H. Since the support device 100 does not need to provide a lever arm, discomfort of the wearer H can be reduced. For example, since the lever arms do not hit the thighs of the wearer H when walking, the discomfort of the wearer H is reduced.

Next, the operation of the support equipment 100 when the wearer H stands up from the squatting posture will be described. When the wearer H changes from a squatting posture to a standing posture, the support equipment 100 changes from the state shown in FIG. 12 to the state shown in FIG. 8, and finally to the state shown in FIG. Become.

When the wearer H tries to stand up from the crouching posture shown in FIG. The lower ends 23b and 24b are moved by gravity so as to approach directly below the revolute joint 28. As shown in FIG. The lower ends 23b, 24b move toward each other. Upper ends 23a and 24a move toward each other. The links 23 and 24 rotate about the rotary joint 28 as an axis.

At this time, the rotary joints 26 and 27 move toward each other in the Y-axis direction, and the rotary joints 25 and 28 move away from each other in the Z-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the links 23, 24 are arranged to generally overlap each other. The lower ends 23b, 24b approach each other. Thus, the link mechanism 20 changes to the closed state.

The seat 30, the seat frame 31, and the arm 32 are interlocked with the movement of the wearer H and rotate about the rotary joint 29 as an axis. The end portion 31a moves rearward, and the seat frame 31 changes its posture along the Y-axis direction and is arranged as shown in FIG. In the standing posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 3, no lever arms are arranged in front of the wearer's thighs.

With such a support device 100, the link mechanism 20 operates and returns to the closed state simply by the wearer H standing up. An actuator for driving the link mechanism 20 is not provided in the support device 100 . The support equipment 100 actively moves according to the movement of the wearer H.

In the support equipment 100, most of the link mechanism 20 is arranged so as to overlap the wearer when viewed in the X-axis direction when the wearer H is standing. Although the lower ends 23b, 24b of the links 23, 24 are positioned behind the wearer H, they are not in contact with the wearer H and do not make the wearer H feel uncomfortable. In addition, although the lower ends 23b and 24b protrude slightly behind the wearer H, the length of the rearward overhang of the lower ends 23b and 24b is short, and there is little risk of contact with an object behind the wearer H.

In addition, since the support device 100 has an attachment 10 that can be attached to and detached from the belt 2, the wearer H can easily remove the support device 100 from the belt 2 as necessary. Moreover, the wearer H can easily attach the removed support equipment 100 to the belt 2 .

For example, the wearer H, who is a factory worker, can work while wearing the support equipment 100 . Since the squatting posture of the wearer H is supported by the support equipment 100, the load on the waist, thighs, knees, etc. of the wearer H is reduced. As a result, wearer H's fatigue and injuries are suppressed. The wearer H is stably supported by the support equipment 100 .

Since the wearer H can easily remove the support equipment 100, it can be removed immediately during a break, for example. For example, the wearer H can immediately remove the support device 100 and go to the restroom. The wearer H can immediately put on the support equipment 100 as needed. The support equipment 100 can be worn only by attaching the clip 11 to the belt from above the belt 2.例文帳に追加

Also, since the attachment 10 is positioned on the side of the wearer H, the support device 100 can be easily attached and detached.

(Second embodiment)
Next, a support device 100B according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14. FIG. FIG. 13 is a side view showing the standing posture of the wearer wearing the support equipment 100B according to the second embodiment. FIG. 14 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing the support equipment 100B according to the second embodiment. A support device 100B according to the second embodiment differs from the support device 100 according to the first embodiment in that a link mechanism 20B is provided instead of the link mechanism 20. As shown in FIG. In addition, in description of the support equipment 100B which concerns on 2nd Embodiment, the same description as the support equipment 100 of 1st Embodiment may be abbreviate|omitted.

The link mechanism 20B has links 21, 22, 23B, 24 and rotary joints 25-28. Link 23B of linkage 20B is shorter than link 23 of linkage 20B. The length of link 23 B is the same as the length of link 22 . In the crouching posture of the wearer H, the link 23 of the link mechanism 20 contacts the floor FL, but the link 23B of the link mechanism 20B does not contact the floor FL.

In the support device 100B according to the second embodiment as well, when the wearer H sits down and the lower end 24b of the link 24 contacts the floor FL, the link mechanism 20B operates and the state of the link mechanism 20B changes. Change. With the support device 100B, it is not necessary to provide a lever arm in front of the thighs of the wearer H, and discomfort to the wearer H can be suppressed. The support equipment 100B according to the second embodiment has the same effects as the support equipment 100 of the first embodiment.

(Third embodiment)
Next, a support device 100C according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. FIG. 15 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing the support equipment 100C according to the third embodiment. FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the link mechanism of the support equipment 100C according to the third embodiment. The support device 100C according to the third embodiment is different from the support device 100 according to the first embodiment in that the link mechanism 50 is provided instead of the link mechanism 20, and the link mechanism 50 is arranged below the link mechanism 50. The point is that the link mechanism 60 is further provided. In addition, in description of the support equipment 100C which concerns on 3rd Embodiment, the same description as the support equipment 100 of 1st Embodiment may be abbreviate|omitted.

The support equipment 100C includes an attachment 10, link mechanisms 50 and 60, a connecting bar 45, and a seat 30. The link mechanism 50 is, for example, a four-bar link mechanism. The link mechanism 50 has links 51-54 and rotary joints 55-58.

The link 51 has a plate shape, for example. Attachment 10 is attached to link 51 . The link 51 is provided with a plurality of holes. The link 52 has a bar shape. The upper end of the link 52 is connected to the link 51 via a revolute joint 55 . Link 52 is relatively swingable with respect to link 51 .

The link 53 is rod-shaped. The upper end of the link 53 is connected to the link 51 via a revolute joint 56 . The rotary joint 56 is arranged below the rotary joint 55 . The rotary joints 55 and 56 are spaced apart in the Z-axis direction. Link 53 is relatively swingable with respect to link 51 .

The link 54 is rod-shaped. The upper end of the link 54 is connected to the lower end of the link 52 via a revolute joint 57 . The rotary joint 57 is arranged below and forward of the rotary joint 55 . The revolute joints 55 and 57 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the link 52 . Link 54 is relatively swingable with respect to link 52 .

The lower end of the link 54 is connected to the lower end of the link 53 via a rotary joint 58. The revolute joints 56 , 57 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the link 53 . The revolute joints 57 , 58 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction of the link 54 .

A rod-shaped link 59 is connected to the rotary joint 58 . The upper end of the link 59 is connected to the lower end of the link 53 and the lower end of the link 54 via the revolute joint 58 . The seat 30 is connected to the link 59 . The seat 30 is swingably supported with respect to the link 59 . The seat 30 can swing around a rotation axis extending in the X-axis direction.

The connecting bar 45 connects the link mechanism 50 and the link mechanism 60 . The upper end of the connecting bar 45 is connected to the lower end of the link 59 .

As shown in FIG. 16, the link mechanism 60 includes a bar 61, mounting pieces 62, and links 63, 64. Link 64 is an example of a first link, and link 63 is an example of a second link. The bar 61 extends in the Z-axis direction. The upper end of the bar 61 is fixed to the lower end of the connecting bar 45 . The connecting bar 45 and the bar 61 may be formed as one rod-shaped member. The cross-sectional shape of the connecting bar 45 is rectangular, for example.

The mounting piece 62 has a plate shape and is fixed to the side surface of the connecting bar 45 . The plate thickness direction of the attachment piece 62 is along the X-axis direction. The mounting piece 62 is fixed to the connecting bar 45 using, for example, a plurality of bolts. The mounting piece 62 has protrusions 65 and 66 that protrude outward from the bar 61 in the Y-axis direction. The protruding portions 65 and 66 protrude in opposite directions to each other in the Y-axis direction. For example, the protruding portion 65 protrudes forward, and the protruding portion 66 protrudes rearward.

The link 63 is rod-shaped. An upper end portion 63a of the link 63 is supported by the projecting portion 65 of the attachment piece 62 via a rotary joint 67. As shown in FIG. The rotary joint 67 has a rotary shaft extending in the X-axis direction. The link 63 can swing around the rotation axis of the rotary joint 67 .

A stopper 71 that restricts the movement of the link 63 is provided on the projecting portion 65 of the mounting piece 62 . The stopper 71 defines the maximum tilt angle of the link 63 . The stopper 71 is arranged above and forward of the rotary joint 67 . The link 63 swings relative to the mounting piece 62 via the rotary joint 67, and the link 63 hits the stopper 71, limiting the movement range of the link 63. As shown in FIG. The stopper 71 may be a bolt fixed to the overhang 65 .

A roller 73 is rotatably supported on the lower end 63b of the link 63. Roller 73 is an example of a second roller. The roller 73 is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in the X-axis direction. For example, roller 73 rotates in contact with floor FL. Note that when the roller 73 contacts the floor FL, it is assumed that the lower end portion 63b of the link 63 contacts the floor FL. The lower end 63b of the link 63 may come into direct contact with the floor FL, or may come into contact with the floor FL via the roller 73. As shown in FIG.

The link 64 is rod-shaped. An upper end portion 64 a of the link 64 is supported by the projecting portion 65 of the mounting piece 62 via a rotary joint 68 . The rotary joint 68 is separated from the rotary joint 67 in the Y-axis direction. The rotary joint 68 is arranged below and behind the rotary joint 67 . The rotary joint 68 has a rotary shaft extending in the X-axis direction. The link 64 can swing around the rotation axis of the rotary joint 68 . The length of link 64 is shorter than the length of link 63 . A lower end portion 63b of the link 63 is arranged below a lower end portion 64b of the link 64 .

A stopper 72 that limits the movement of the link 64 is provided on the projecting portion 66 of the mounting piece 62 . Stopper 72 defines the maximum tilt angle of link 64 . The stopper 72 is arranged above and behind the rotary joint 68 . The link 64 swings relative to the mounting piece 62 via the rotary joint 67, and the link 64 abuts against the stopper 72, limiting the range of movement of the link 64. As shown in FIG. Stopper 72 may be a bolt fixed to overhang 66 .

A roller 74 is rotatably supported on the lower end 64b of the link 64. Roller 74 is an example of a first roller. The roller 74 is rotatable around a rotation axis extending in the X-axis direction. For example, roller 74 rotates in contact with floor FL. Note that when the roller 74 contacts the floor FL, it is assumed that the lower end portion 64b of the link 64 contacts the floor FL. The lower end 64b of the link 64 may come into direct contact with the floor FL, or may come into contact with the floor FL via the rollers 74. As shown in FIG.

A projecting portion 75 is provided on the upper end portion 63a of the link 63. The projecting portion 75 is an example of a second engaging piece. The protruding portion 75 protrudes toward the upper end portion 64a of the link 64 in the Y-axis direction. A bearing cam 76 is provided at the tip of the projecting portion 75 . The bearing cam 76 has a roller rotatable around a rotation axis extending in the X-axis direction.

A projecting portion 77 is provided on the upper end portion 64a of the link 64 . The projecting portion 77 is an example of a first engagement piece. The protrusion 77 protrudes toward the link 63 in the Y-axis direction. The projecting portion 77 is arranged below the projecting portion 75 . When the projecting portion 75 moves downward, the bearing cam 76 contacts the projecting portion 77 and pushes the projecting portion 77 downward. As a result, the link 64 swings around the rotation axis of the rotary joint 68 .

Next, the movement of the link mechanism 60 will be explained. As shown in FIG. 16, the link mechanism 60 is closed when the lower ends 63b and 64b of the links 63 and 64 are close to each other. As shown in FIG. 15, the link mechanism 60 is opened when the lower ends 63b and 64b of the links 63 and 64 are separated from each other.

In the standing posture of the wearer H, the link mechanism 60 is closed as shown in FIG. When the wearer H sits down from this state, the roller 73 provided at the lower end portion 63b of the link 63 contacts the floor FL. When the roller 73 contacts the floor FL, the lower end 63b of the link 63 slides along the floor FL. The lower end 63b of the link 63 moves away from the lower end 64b of the link 64 . At this time, the link 63 swings about the rotary joint 67 as an axis. In conjunction with this, the projecting portion 75 moves downward, and the bearing cam 76 in contact with the projecting portion 77 pushes the projecting portion 77 downward.

When the projecting portion 77 is pushed down, the link 64 swings around the rotation axis of the rotary joint 68 in conjunction with the movement of the projecting portion 77 . The lower end 64b of the link 64 moves away from the lower end 63b of the link 63 . Moreover, when the roller 74 provided at the lower end portion 64b of the link 64 contacts the floor FL, the lower end portion 64b can move away from the lower end portion 63b. When the wearer H further lowers his waist, the distance between the lower ends 63b and 64b in the Y-axis direction increases.

When the wearer squats down, as shown in FIG. 15, the distance between the lower ends 63b, 64b is maximized, and the links 63, 64 stop moving. In this state, the link 63 contacts the stopper 71 and the link 64 contacts the stopper 72 . The lower ends 63b and 64b are farthest from the bar 61 in the Y-axis direction.

When the wearer H stands up from the squatting position, the rollers 73, 74 are separated from the floor FL, and gravity causes the lower ends 63b, 64b of the links 63, 64 to move closer to each other. In the standing posture of the wearer H, as shown in FIG. 16, the lower ends 63b and 64b are closest to each other and the link mechanism 60 is closed.

Also in the support equipment 100C according to the third embodiment, the state of the link mechanism 60 changes in conjunction with the movement of the wearer H. Therefore, even if it is the structure which does not equip the front of the wearer's H thigh with the lever arm like before, the link mechanism 60 can be operated. 100 C of support equipment which concerns on 3rd Embodiment have an effect similar to the support equipment 100 of 1st Embodiment.

According to the support equipment 100C, the wearer H can be stably supported via the seat 30 when the wearer H is in a squatting posture. According to the support equipment 100C, the link mechanism 60 is in a closed state when the wearer H is in a standing posture, and does not protrude greatly behind the wearer H. Therefore, the link mechanism 60 is less likely to hit an object behind the wearer H.

In the description of the support device 100C of the third embodiment, the link 64 is arranged on the rear side of the link 63, but the link 64 is arranged on the front side of the link 63. good too. A shorter link 64 may be provided on the front side and a longer link 63 may be provided on the rear side. The lengths of links 63, 64 may be different or the same.

(Fourth embodiment)
Next, a support device 100D according to a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18. FIG. FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional side view showing a state in which the support device 100D according to the fourth embodiment is closed. FIG. 18 is a side view showing a state in which the support equipment 100D according to the fourth embodiment is opened. A support device 100</b>D according to the fourth embodiment differs from the support device 100 of the first embodiment in that a link mechanism 80 is provided instead of the link mechanism 20 . In addition, in the description of the support equipment 100D according to the fourth embodiment, the same description as that of the support equipment 100 of the first embodiment may be omitted.

The support equipment 100D includes a link mechanism 80. The link mechanism 80 has an input link 81 , an output link 82 , a frame link 83 and a rotary joint 85 . Frame link 83 is an example of a holder. The input link 81 has a bar shape. A slot hole 84 extending in the longitudinal direction of the input link 81 is formed in the input link 81 . The slot hole 84 penetrates the input link 81 in the X-axis direction. A lower end portion 81b of the input link 81 includes a portion that can contact the floor FL. A lower end portion 81 b of the input link 81 protrudes below the frame link 83 .

An upper end portion 81a of the input link 81 is formed with an inclined surface 81c. The inclined surface 81 c is inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the input link 81 . When the longitudinal direction of the input link 81 is along the Z-axis direction, the plane orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the input link 81 is along the XY plane. In this case, the inclined surface 81c is inclined with respect to the XY plane.

The rotation shaft of the rotary joint 85 is inserted through the slot hole 84 . The rotation axis of the revolute joint 85 extends in the X-axis direction. The rotation axis of the revolute joint 85 may be, for example, a pin or the shaft of a bolt.

The output link 82 has a bar shape. The output link 82 is supported to be relatively swingable with respect to the input link 81 via a rotary joint 85 . As shown in FIG. 17, the output link 82 is arranged along the input link 81 when the link mechanism 80 is closed. As shown in FIG. 18, when the link mechanism 80 is open, the output link 82 is arranged to intersect the input link 81 .

A top plate 86 that can come into contact with the inclined surface 81c of the input link 81 is provided on the upper end portion 82a of the output link 82. In the state shown in FIG. 17 , the plate thickness direction of the top plate 86 is along the longitudinal direction of the input link 81 .

The frame link 83 is an example of a holder that holds the input link 81. The input link 81 is movable relative to the frame link 83 in the longitudinal direction of the frame link 83 . The frame link 83 may be provided with a guide that defines the moving direction of the input link 81 . Further, the direction of movement of the input link 81 is defined by inserting the rotation shaft of the rotary joint 85 into the slot hole 84 of the input link 81 .

An opening 83c is formed in the lower end 83b of the frame link 83. A portion of the input link 81 near the lower end 81b is inserted through the opening 83c. A lower end portion 82 b of the input link 81 is arranged outside the frame link 83 . The lower end portion 82b of the input link 81 is movable relative to the frame link 83 so as to approach or separate from the lower end portion 83b of the frame link 83. As shown in FIG.

An opening is formed in the upper end portion 83a of the frame link 83. When the input link 81 is pushed from below, the input link 81 moves upward. The upper end 81a of the input link 81 protrudes above the upper end 83a of the frame link 83, as shown in FIG.

The rotating shaft of the rotating joint 85 is supported by the frame link 83, for example. The rotation axis of the rotary joint 85 may be fixed to the output link 82 and rotated around the axis in conjunction with the movement of the output link 82 .

Next, the movement of the link mechanism 80 will be explained. The link mechanism 80 can change from the closed state shown in FIG. 17 to the open state shown in FIG. The link mechanism 80 can change from the open state shown in FIG. 18 to the closed state shown in FIG.

When the frame link 83 approaches the floor FL from the state shown in FIG. 17, the lower end 81b of the input link 81 comes into contact with the floor FL. As the frame link 83 further approaches the floor FL, the lower end 81b approaches the lower end 83b of the frame link 83. As shown in FIG. At this time, the input link 81 moves relative to the frame link 83 .

When the lower end portion 81b of the input link 81 approaches the lower end portion 83b of the frame link 83, the upper end portion 81a of the input link 81 protrudes from the upper end portion 83a of the frame link 83 to the outside.

When the upper end portion 81 a of the input link 81 protrudes outside the frame link 83 , the inclined surface 81 c contacts the top plate 86 of the output link 82 . As a result, the top plate 86 is pushed by the inclined surface 81c to rotate about the rotation axis of the rotary joint 85. As shown in FIG. When the top plate 86 of the output link 82 is pushed, the output link 82 swings about the rotation axis of the rotary joint 85 as shown in FIG. 18 . Lower end 82b of output link 82 moves away from lower end 81b of input link 81 . The output link 82 is arranged to cross the input link 81 when viewed in the X-axis direction. Thus, the link mechanism 80 is in an open state.

When the frame link 83 moves away from the floor FL from the state shown in FIG. 18, the lower end 83b of the frame link 83 moves upward and separates from the lower end 81b of the input link 81. At this time, the inclined surface 81c of the input link 81 is accommodated in the frame link 83 by moving the upper end portion 83a of the frame link 83 upward. As a result, the force that pushes the top plate 86 of the output link 82 weakens, and gravity moves the lower end 82b of the output link 82 toward the lower end 81b of the input link 81 . Ultimately, as shown in FIG. 17, the input link 81 and the output link 82 are arranged to overlap. Thus, the link mechanism 80 is in a closed state.

Also in the support equipment 100D according to the fourth embodiment, the state of the link mechanism 80 changes in conjunction with the movement of the wearer H. Therefore, the link mechanism 80 can be operated even in a configuration in which no lever arm is provided in front of the wearer's H thighs. The support equipment 100D according to the fourth embodiment has the same effects as the support equipment 100 of the first embodiment.

In addition, in the support equipment 100D, the seat 30 can be connected to the frame link 83 so as to be swingable. Also, the seat 30 may be connected to the frame link 83 via another connecting member. Also, the frame link 83 can be attached to the belt 2 via the attachment 10 in the same manner as the support equipment 100 . Moreover, the support equipment 100D may be provided with other link mechanisms. For example, the support device 100D may have a four-bar link mechanism connected to the frame links 83. As shown in FIG. In the support device 100D, a four-bar link mechanism may be used to tilt the frame link 83 with respect to the Z-axis direction.

(Fifth embodiment)
Next, a support device 100G according to a fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 to 23. FIG. FIG. 19 is a side view showing a support device 100G according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 20 is a side view showing the standing posture of the wearer H wearing the support equipment 100G according to the fifth embodiment. 21 and 22 are side views showing the standing posture of the wearer H wearing the support device 100G according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 23 is a rear view showing a squatting posture of the wearer H wearing the support equipment 100G according to the fifth embodiment. A support device 100</b>G according to the fifth embodiment differs from the support device 100 of the first embodiment in that a link mechanism 160 is provided instead of the link mechanism 20 . In addition, in description of the support equipment 100G which concerns on 5th Embodiment, the same description as the support equipment 100 of 1st Embodiment may be abbreviate|omitted.

The support equipment 100G includes a link mechanism 160. The link mechanism 160 has a connecting piece 161 , an attachment piece 162 , links 163 and 164 and a rotary joint 165 . Link 163 is an example of a first link, and link 164 is an example of a second link. The connecting piece 161 is connected to the attachment 10 . The connecting piece 161 is attached to the belt 2 via the attachment 10 . In the standing posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 19, the belt 2 is arranged along the Y-axis direction, and the connecting piece 161 is arranged along the Z-axis direction. The connecting piece 161 extends away from the attachment 10 . The connecting piece 161 is, for example, plate-shaped and has a predetermined length. The connecting piece 161 may be, for example, spring steel.

The mounting piece 162 is fixed to the lower end of the connecting piece 161 . The lower end of the connecting piece 161 is the end farther from the attachment 10 in the longitudinal direction of the connecting piece 161 . The attachment piece 162 may be arranged so as to intersect the longitudinal direction of the connection piece 161 when viewed from the X-axis direction. The mounting piece 162 may protrude forward and backward with respect to the connecting piece 161 . The mounting piece 162 may be formed integrally with the connecting piece 161 or may be formed separately from the connecting piece 161 .

The link 163 is, for example, a rod-shaped member. An upper end portion 163 a of the link 163 is connected to the attachment piece 162 via a revolute joint 165 . The rotary joint 165 has a rotary shaft extending in the X-axis direction. The link 163 can swing about the rotation axis of the rotary joint 165 with respect to the mounting piece 162 . A lower end portion 163b of the link 163 can contact the floor FL when the wearer H is in the crouching posture shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 .

The lower end portion 163b of the link 163 may be curved when viewed from the X-axis direction. A lower end 163b of the link 163 is bent away from a lower end 164b of the link 164. As shown in FIG.

The link 164 is, for example, a rod-shaped member. An upper end portion 164 a of the link 164 is fixed to the attachment piece 162 . Link 164 is arranged on the rear side of link 163 . The link 164 is arranged at a position closer to the seat 30 than the link 163 is. Link 164 is attached to mounting piece 162 using, for example, a plurality of bolts.

The link 164 is arranged at a position behind the link 163. The upper end 164 a of the link 164 is fixed to the mounting piece 162 at a position behind the upper end 163 a of the link 163 . The link 164 does not swing with respect to the connecting piece 161 and the mounting piece 162 . Link 164 extends along the longitudinal direction of connecting piece 161 . The link 164 extends in the direction opposite to the connecting piece 161 with respect to the mounting piece 162 .

The length of the link 164 along the longitudinal direction may be longer than the length of the link 163 along the longitudinal direction. In the state shown in FIG. 19 , the lower end 164b of the link 164 may be arranged below the lower end 163b of the link 163 .

A projecting portion 171 is provided on the upper end portion 163a of the link 163 . The protruding portion 171 protrudes toward the upper end portion 164a of the link 164 in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the link 163. As shown in FIG. The projecting portion 171 can swing integrally with the link 163 .

A projecting portion 172 is provided on the upper end portion 164a of the link 164. As shown in FIG. The protruding portion 172 protrudes toward the upper end portion 163a of the link 163 in a direction crossing the longitudinal direction of the link 164. As shown in FIG. The projecting portion 172 is separated from the projecting portion 171 in the longitudinal direction of the link 164 . The projecting portion 172 functions as a stopper that restricts movement of the link 163 . The projecting portion 172 is arranged at a position where it can come into contact with the projecting portion 171 .

In the state shown in FIG. 19, the projections 171 and 172 are separated from each other in the Z-axis direction. In this state, protrusions 171 and 172 are not in contact. In the state shown in FIG. 20, protrusions 171 and 172 are closer together than in the state shown in FIG. 19, but they are not touching. In the state shown in FIG. 22, protrusions 171 and 172 are in contact with each other. In this state, the projecting portion 171 is in contact with the projecting portion 172, so the downward movement of the projecting portion 171 is restricted. In other words, the maximum distance between the lower end 163b of the link 163 and the lower end 164b of the link 164 in the Y-axis direction is limited.

Next, the movement of the link mechanism 160 will be explained. As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, the link mechanism 160 is closed when the lower ends 163b and 164b of the links 163 and 164 are close to each other. As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the link mechanism 160 is opened when the lower ends 163b and 164b of the links 163 and 164 are separated from each other.

The link mechanism 160 can change from the closed state shown in FIGS. 19 and 21 to the open state shown in FIGS. Link mechanism 160 can change from the closed state shown in FIGS. 21 and 22 to the state shown in FIGS.

In the standing posture of the wearer H as shown in FIG. 20, the link mechanism 160 is closed. When the wearer H sits down from this state, the lower end 164b of the link 164 contacts the floor FL. When the wearer H squats down, the upper half of the body inclines forward as shown in FIG. 21, so the belt 2, the connecting piece 161, the mounting piece 162, and the link 164 also incline in conjunction with the movement of the upper half of the body. An upper end portion 164a of the link 164 is arranged forward of the lower end portion 116b.

The link 163 is tiltable with respect to the mounting piece 162 because it can swing relative to the mounting piece 162 . Part of the weight of the wearer H can be received by the bottom end 163b of the link 163 coming into contact with the floor FL. In this state, when the wearer H further lowers his waist, the distance between the floor FL and the attachment piece 162 becomes shorter, and the lower end 163b of the link 163 slides forward along the floor FL.

As shown in FIG. 22, when the projecting portion 171 projecting from the link 163 hits the projecting portion 172 projecting from the link 164, the relative swinging of the link 163 with respect to the mounting piece 162 stops. The seat 30 supports the buttocks of the wearer H in the squatting posture shown in FIG. A portion of the weight of the wearer H can be received by the links 163,164.

In the crouching posture of the wearer H, the buttocks of the wearer H are supported by the seat 30 as shown in FIG. Moreover, the connecting piece 161 is inclined so that the lower end is arranged outside the upper end when viewed in the Y-axis direction. An upper end portion of the connecting piece 161 is connected to the belt 2 via the attachment 10 . The seat 30 is connected to the lower end of the connecting piece 161 via the mounting piece 162 . The lower end of the connecting piece 161 is arranged outside the upper end of the connecting piece 161 in the X-axis direction. A lower end portion of the connecting piece 161 is displaceable in the Y-axis direction with respect to the attachment 10 . The connection piece 161 can change its posture according to the width of the wearer H along the Y-axis direction.

When the wearer H rises from the crouching posture shown in FIGS. 22 and 23, the lower ends 163b and 164b of the links 163 and 164 leave the floor FL. When the lower ends 163b and 164b leave the floor FL, the link 163 swings relative to the mounting piece 162 due to gravity, and the lower end 163b of the link 163 approaches the lower end 164b of the link 164. As shown in FIG. The link 164 changes its posture in conjunction with the movement of the wearer H.

As shown in FIG. 20, when the wearer H assumes a standing posture, the link mechanism 160 is closed and the lower ends 163b, 164b of the links 163, 164 approach each other.

Also in the support device 100G according to the seventh embodiment, the state of the link mechanism 160 changes in conjunction with the movement of the wearer H. Therefore, the link mechanism 160 can be operated even in a configuration in which no lever arm is provided in front of the wearer's H thighs. The support equipment 100G according to the seventh embodiment has the same effects as the support equipment 100 of the first embodiment.

In the support equipment 100G, the distance between the lower ends 163b, 164b of the links 163, 164 is defined by the protrusion 171 protruding from the link 163 and the protrusion 172 from the link 164 coming into contact with each other. Therefore, the distance between the lower ends 163b, 164b of the links 163, 164 is defined by appropriately setting the length, shape, and position of the protrusions 171, 172. FIG. For example, by setting the length, shape, and position of the protruding portion 171 so as to achieve the crouching posture of a skilled worker, other workers can easily imitate the crouching posture of the skilled worker. A skilled worker may be, for example, a welder, a grinder, or some other worker. In the crouching posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 22, the heels of the wearer H may rest on the floor FL between the lower ends 163b and 164b.

(Sixth embodiment)
FIG. 24 is a side view of the support device 100H according to the sixth embodiment, showing a state corresponding to the standing posture of the wearer. FIG. 25 is a side view showing a squatting posture of a wearer wearing the support equipment 100H according to the sixth embodiment. 24 and 25 show a prototype support device 100H, and FIGS. 13 and 14 show an imaged support device 100B. The support equipment 100H is a materialization of the support equipment 100B. A support device 100H according to the eighth embodiment has substantially the same configuration as the support device 100B according to the second embodiment. The support device 100H operates similarly to the support device 100B. The support equipment 100H has the same effect as the support equipment 100, 100B.

(Reference form)
Next, a support device 200 according to a reference embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27. FIG. FIG. 26 is a side view showing the standing posture of the wearer H wearing the support equipment 200 according to the reference embodiment. FIG. 27 is a side view showing a squatting posture of the wearer H wearing the support equipment 200 according to the reference embodiment.

The support device 200 includes a belt 2, attachments 10, and support legs 201. Support leg 201 is attached to belt 2 via attachment 10 . The support leg 201 is a rod-shaped member. For example, the support device 200 may be configured with a seat 30 coupled to support legs 201 .

In the standing posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. 26, the support legs 201 extend along the thighs of the wearer H in the X-axis direction. In the state shown in FIG. 26, support leg 201 is not in contact with floor FL. In the crouching posture of the wearer H shown in FIG.

In the support equipment 200, since the support legs 201 are arranged along the thighs of the wearer H in the standing posture, the support legs 201 do not protrude in the front and rear of the wearer H. Therefore, the support leg 201 is less likely to hit an object behind the wearer H when the wearer H is standing.

With the support equipment 200, the support leg 201 can receive part of the weight of the wearer H when the wearer is crouching, so the burden on the waist, thighs, knees, etc. of the wearer H can be reduced. Wearer's fatigue is reduced. Since the squatting posture of the wearer H can be supported by the support equipment 200, the wearer H tends to stably continue the squatting posture.

(conventional technology)
Next, a conventional support device 300 will be described with reference to FIGS. 28 and 29. FIG. FIG. 28 is a side view showing a wearer being supported by a conventional support device 300. FIG. FIG. 29 is a side view showing a standing posture of a wearer wearing support equipment 300 according to the prior art.

A support device 300 includes a belt 301 , a pad 302 and support legs 303 . The belt 301 is wrapped around the wearer H's thighs. The pad 302 is arranged to cover the rear side of the wearer's H thigh. In the seated position of the wearer H shown in FIG. 28, the thighs of the wearer H are placed on the pad 302 .

The support leg 303 is a rod-shaped member, for example, and has a first portion 304 and a second portion 305 . First portion 304 supports pad 302 . Belt 301 is connected to first portion 304 . The first portion 304 is positioned along the wearer's H thigh.

The second portion 305 is bent from the first portion 304. The second portion 305 can receive part of the weight of the wearer H in contact with the floor FL when the wearer H is in a sitting posture. The second portion 305 protrudes rearward from the thighs in the standing posture of the wearer H shown in FIG. In such a state, the lower end portion 303b of the support may hit the object Ob present behind the wearer H. As shown in FIG. Therefore, the movement range of the wearer H is limited.

On the other hand, in the support device 100 according to the embodiment as described above, the links 21 to 24 are arranged along the thighs of the wearer H when the wearer H is standing. In the support equipment 100, since the length of the portion projecting to the rear of the wearer H is shorter than that of the support equipment 300 according to the conventional technology, the support equipment 100 is less likely to collide with the object Ob.

The preferred embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications, replacements, etc., may be applied to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, features described separately can be combined unless technical contradiction arises.

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/148,798, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/148,804, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/148,811, filed February 12, 2021 and the entire contents of this US provisional application are incorporated herein by reference.

100, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100G, 100H ... support equipment, 2 ... belt (wearing article), 10 ... attachment (mounting part), 20, 20B ... link mechanism (four-bar link mechanism), 21 ... link (first link), 22, 23B... link (second link), 23... link (third link), 23b... lower end (third link lower end), 24... link (fourth link), 24b... lower end ( Lower end of fourth link), 30: seat, 31: seat frame, 32: arm, 33: bar (first bar), 34: bar (second bar), 35: hole (first holding portion), 36 ... Hole (second holding portion) 50 ... Link mechanism 60 ... Link mechanism 80 ... Link mechanism 81 ... Input link 160 ... Link mechanism 161 ... Connection piece 163 ... Link (first link) 164 ... Link (second link), FL... floor.

Claims (9)

1. an attachment portion attached to the wearer's clothing;
   a link mechanism that is connected to the mounting portion, changes to the first state by receiving the weight of the wearer in response to the wearer's crouching motion, and changes to the second state in response to the wearer's standing motion;
   a seat connected to the link mechanism;
   The link mechanism has a link member that contacts the floor according to the wearer's crouching motion, receives the weight of the wearer and changes its state, and moves away from the floor according to the wearer's standing motion,
   The support equipment, wherein the link member is arranged on the side of the wearer's thigh when the wearer is in a standing posture.
2. The link mechanism is a four-bar link mechanism,
   a first link connected to the mounting portion;
   a second link that is connected to the first link and is relatively swingable with respect to the first link;
   a third link connected to the first link at a position different from that of the second link and capable of swinging relative to the first link;
   a fourth link that is connected to the second link and the third link at different positions and is swingable relative to the second link and the third link;
   The support brace of claim 1, wherein the link member includes the fourth link.
3. The link member further includes the third link,
   in the second state, the lower end of the third link and the lower end of the fourth link are arranged to approach each other;
   3. The support device according to claim 2, wherein in the first state, the lower end of the third link and the lower end of the fourth link are arranged to be separated from each other.
4. The support device according to claim 3, wherein in the second state, the lower end of the fourth link is arranged below the lower end of the third link.
5. an arm connected to the third link and capable of swinging relative to the third link;
   a seat frame connected to the arm;
   a first bar held by the seat frame and holding a front end of the seat;
   a second bar that is held by the seat frame and holds the rear end of the seat;
   The seat frame has a first holding portion that holds the first bar and a second holding portion that holds the second bar,
   2. In the first state, when viewed from the wearer's side, the connecting portion between the third link and the arm is arranged at a position closer to the first holding portion than to the second holding portion. 3. The support device according to 3.
6. The link mechanism is
   a holder connected to the mounting portion and extending in a direction away from the mounting portion;
   an input link held by the holder and movable relative to the holder in the longitudinal direction of the holder;
   an output link arranged to swing relative to the input link and to be inclined with respect to the input link in conjunction with relative movement of the holder and the input link;
   2. The support brace of claim 1, wherein said link member is said input link.
7. The link mechanism is
   a connecting piece that is connected to the mounting portion and extends in a direction away from the mounting portion;
   a first link connected to the connecting piece and capable of swinging relative to the connecting piece;
   a second link connected to the connecting piece and swingable relative to the connecting piece in a direction opposite to the first link;
   a first engaging piece projecting from the first link toward the second link and swinging together with the first link;
   a second engaging piece projecting from the second link toward the first link and swinging together with the second link;
   2. The support brace of claim 1, wherein said link member includes said first link and said second link.
8. The link mechanism is
   a bearing cam rotatably supported by the second engagement piece and in contact with the first engagement piece;
   a first roller provided at the lower end of the first link;
   8. The support device of claim 7, further comprising a second roller provided at the lower end of said second link.
9. The link mechanism is
   a connecting piece connected to the mounting portion and extending away from the mounting portion;
   a first link swingably supported with respect to the connecting piece;
   a second link connected to the connecting piece and extending in a direction opposite to the mounting portion with respect to the connecting piece;
   The support brace of Claim 1, wherein the link member comprises the first link.

Images