WO2024110918A1 - Crutch, crutch assembly, and revamping method - Google Patents

Crutch, crutch assembly, and revamping method Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024110918A1
WO2024110918A1 PCT/IB2023/061842 IB2023061842W WO2024110918A1 WO 2024110918 A1 WO2024110918 A1 WO 2024110918A1 IB 2023061842 W IB2023061842 W IB 2023061842W WO 2024110918 A1 WO2024110918 A1 WO 2024110918A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
crutch
light source
lighting device
tubular core
support
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2023/061842
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Timothy MOSCONI
Matthew RIZZI
Original Assignee
Mosconi Timothy
Rizzi Matthew
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Mosconi Timothy, Rizzi Matthew filed Critical Mosconi Timothy
Publication of WO2024110918A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024110918A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H3/00—Appliances for aiding patients or disabled persons to walk about
    • A61H3/02—Crutches
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A45—HAND OR TRAVELLING ARTICLES
    • A45B—WALKING STICKS; UMBRELLAS; LADIES' OR LIKE FANS
    • A45B3/00—Sticks combined with other objects
    • A45B3/02—Sticks combined with other objects with illuminating devices
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
    • A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
    • A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
    • A61H2201/01—Constructive details
    • A61H2201/0188—Illumination related features

Definitions

  • the invention falls within the sector of personal mobility aids for helping overcome motor difficulties which limit the walking ability of a person.
  • crutches which differ mainly as regards the type of support which is offered to a person.
  • so-called “axillary” crutches may be positioned against the rib cage and arranged under the armpit.
  • crutches must be gripped whilst walking such that one or both hands may be occupied during the assisted walking movement.
  • the presence of little or no light may be a potential source of danger, said danger being greater than for a person who is able to walk normally without the use of aids.
  • Said danger may consist for example of a fall due to the fact that there is little or no light, while also having one’s hands occupied. Having one’s hands occupied with holding a crutch means that the arms react more slowly and/or it is more difficult to grab hold of a handrail or find support on a surface in the event of an emergency, in order to avoid or break the impact of a fall.
  • the present invention therefore relates to a crutch which is able to overcome the drawbacks arising from the prior art.
  • the invention reduces the risk that a user of the crutch according to the present invention, i.e. a person who perse is vulnerable, may trip over. Said reduced risk arises obviously from the lighting produced by the lighting device with which the crutch is equipped, but in particular from the method of switching the light source on and off which is described here, said method not involving the user having to remove their hands from the crutch support and therefore maintaining the mechanical supporting action on the crutch which transfers at least part of the user’s body weight to the ground.
  • the object of the invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art.
  • the crutch 1 comprises: (a) a crutch body 2 extending in a longitudinal direction X between a first portion 4 and a second portion 6; (b) a first support 8 with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion 4; (c) a second support 12, extending in a direction transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X, wherein the second support 12 comprises a tubular core 14 circumscribing an inner compartment 16, a first end 18 of the tubular core 14 being connected to the crutch body 2 between the first support 8 and the second portion 6, a second end 20 of the tubular core 14 - opposite to the first end 18 - delimiting an access opening 22 of the inner compartment 16; and (d) a lighting device 10.
  • Said lighting device 10 is predominantly or completely housed in the inner compartment 16 and comprises a device body 24, at least one light source 26 configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment 16, at least one power supply battery 28 and means 30 for switching the light source 26 on/off, functionally interposed between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 26 so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source 26.
  • the on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least a part of the lighting device 10 relative to the tubular core 14, or by means of a touch switch arranged at the light source 26, or by means of a switch positioned at the second support 12.
  • the present invention also relates to a pair of crutches or a crutch assembly, wherein only one of said crutches is made according to any embodiment of the present invention, the other crutch being devoid of said lighting device.
  • the present invention also relates to a pair of crutches or a crutch assembly, wherein both the crutches are made according to any embodiment of the present invention.
  • the present invention relates, finally, to revamping method for a crutch.
  • said method comprises the following steps: (I) removing at least part of an end wall superimposed so as to close the access opening of the inner compartment, in order to open the access opening; (II) providing said lighting device; (III) through the access opening, housing an optional abutment and the lighting device predominantly or completely in the inner compartment, the light source being configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment.
  • the invention has the following advantages.
  • the crutch according to the present invention is practically indistinguishable for the user in terms of the static and dynamic behaviour.
  • the crutch according to the present invention is not even visually different from a crutch of the prior art as a result of the specific positioning and housing of the lighting device and the possible presence of a covering element.
  • the positioning of the lighting device inside the tubular core provides, in addition to a containment space which is not made of use of in the prior art, easy access to the on/off switching means, as well as a location which is not disturbed by the movements of the crutch during use.
  • the crutch according to the present invention does not have a weight which is significantly greater than that of a crutch according to the prior art.
  • a crutch according to the prior art Even only one crutch of a pair may be implemented or modified with the device according to the invention, without however causing problems during the walking movement.
  • the crutch according to the present invention has been designed so that it can be operated, and if necessary oriented, without the user having to remove their hands from the support.
  • the crutch device according to the present invention can be operated with simple movements of the fingers, these movements being possible without having to take one’s hand off the support.
  • the crutch according to the present invention is able to maintain stable lighting, namely lighting which substantially does not oscillate during the walking movement.
  • the crutch according to the present invention has a special ergonomic design which allows the lighting device to be used in the manner of a conventional torch.
  • the crutch according to the present invention may be of the folding type and is therefore able to save space.
  • the crutch according to the present invention may be used also in damp environments and/or may come into contact with water without suffering damage.
  • the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention may be provided with different lighting functions, so that it can be adapted to different requirements.
  • the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention uses a miniaturized light source with low energy consumption.
  • the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention may comprise one or more light sources so as to be able to provide a large degree of freedom in the design and use of the present crutch.
  • the lighting device in the crutch according to the present invention may comprise a reflector which has a reflective function, for example when the light source is switched off.
  • the expression “reflective” is understood as meaning an optical device with reflective light, consisting of a small glass or plastic plate on which numerous identical reflectors are provided, preferably by means of moulding.
  • the light source or a reflector of the light source in the present crutch can be oriented as required with at least one degree of freedom.
  • the lighting device can be easily extracted from the tubular core of the crutch according to the present invention. Said extraction possibility may be exploited in order to carry out maintenance operations of a routine nature (for example in order to replace or recharge the at least one power supply battery) or extraordinary nature (for example in order to change the lighting device or parts thereof).
  • the configuration of the lighting device is such that the light source may be placed in a position very close to the second portion and therefore light sources having less power may be used for the same area illuminated by said source.
  • the power supply battery may be replaced without removing the lighting device from the second support.
  • the primary function of the present crutch is to allow the user thereof an improved vision and not that of improving the visibility of the user for other users along a road.
  • this latter function could also be provided together with the first function.
  • the light beam may be directed depending on the distance between the second support and a foot situated on the second portion and therefore depending on the height or preferences of the user.
  • the revamping method according to the present invention allows most of the already existing crutches to be modified and converted into crutches according to the invention.
  • the crutch is preferably a Canadian-type or Lofstrand crutch.
  • the crutch body 2 is of the folding type.
  • the crutch body 2 could be made as two or more parts, which are coupled together releasably in terms of both form and/or force (e.g. interlocking fit).
  • said two or more parts are crossed by one or more tie elements which exert a pulling force so as to keep the two or more parts coupled together.
  • the device body 24 comprises a first body portion 76 and a second body portion 82.
  • the first body portion 76 has a sufficiently narrow and elongate shape that it may be inserted substantially entirely inside the inner compartment 16.
  • the first body portion 76 circumscribes at least part of a battery compartment 78 for said at least one power supply battery 28.
  • the second body portion 82 has a radial encumbrance - with respect to the second direction T - greater than the first body portion 76 and projects outside of the inner compartment 16.
  • the second body portion 82 preferably houses the light source 26.
  • the second body portion 82 could have a generally semi-spherical shape.
  • the inner compartment 16 is sealingly closed by the lighting device 10.
  • the crutch could comprise one or more sealing elements mechanically interposed between an outer surface of the lighting device 10 (for example of the device body 24) and the tubular core 14 (for example an inner surface thereof).
  • a sealing element is made as an annular lip 80 projecting from the device body 24.
  • the annular lip 80 could be co-moulded together with, or overmoulded onto, the device body 24, preferably using a polymer material which is the same as or different from the polymer material of the device body 24.
  • the annular lip 80 is preferably positioned in a zone which connects together the first body portion 76 and the second body portion 82.
  • the device body 24 delimits at least one device compartment 60, which is preferably sealed (i.e. water-tight).
  • the device compartment 60 houses at least part of the power supply battery 28 and at least part of the electric contacts between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 28.
  • the second body portion 82 delimits at least part of the device compartment 60.
  • the device compartment 60 is closed (for example sealed) by a closing element 84 which is removably connected to the device body 24 and, more precisely, to the second body portion 82. More preferably, an electrical contact 86 of the power supply battery 28 is fixed to the closing element 84. According to a preferred embodiment, the closing element 84 is accessible from the front of the crutch 1 , namely without the lighting device having to be extracted from the inner compartment 16.
  • the device body 24 delimits a window 70 for the light beam which extends radially with respect to the second direction T on the side of the second portion 6, namely downwards according to the orientation shown in the figures.
  • the window 70 is closed, so that it comprises an element which is at least partially permeable to the light beam and which prevents access to the device compartment 60.
  • the window 70 is open and therefore delimited by a frame, but does not have an element which is at least partially permeable to the light beam.
  • the light source 26 and/or the window 70 are oriented so as to project the light beams towards the second portion 6 and/or in front of the second portion 6.
  • the expression “in front of” refers to a walking direction where the crutch 1 is held in a forward position.
  • the device body 24 is configured so that at least one of said light source 26 and said window 70 (for example both of them) is/are positioned vertically underneath the tubular core 14.
  • At least one part of the lighting device 10 is slidable along the second direction T or is rotatable about an axis parallel to the second direction T, relative to the tubular core 14.
  • the entire lighting device 10 is slidable along the second direction T.
  • the lighting device is integral with the tubular core 14, namely it is neither slidable nor rotatable with respect to the tubular core 14 in order to operate the on/off switching means 30.
  • the crutch 1 comprises at least one adaptor body mechanically interposed between the outer surface of the lighting device 10 (for example of the device body 24) and the tubular core 14 (for example the inner surface thereof). Said adaptor body is preferably provided in order to reduce or eliminate any play between the lighting device 10 and the tubular core 14.
  • the adaptor body has an annular, frustoconical or cylindrical shape.
  • the device body 24 is housed in the inner compartment 16 slidably between a first axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 16 and a second axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26.
  • the first axial position could be a retracted position of the device body 24 inside the inner compartment 16, or wherein the lighting device 10 terminates substantially flush with the access opening 22.
  • the second axial position is a position where the device body 24 or the lighting device 10 is partially extracted from the inner compartment 16.
  • only an swivelling portion (for example a ferrule 32) of the lighting device 10 is rotatable about an axis parallel to the second direction T.
  • the lighting device 10 comprises at least one swivelling portion rotatable about an axis of rotation parallel to the second direction (T) between a first angular position (for example Fig. 3, “OFF” position), in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 26, and a second angular position (for example Fig. 3, “ON” position), in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26.
  • the swivelling portion comprises or consists of a ferrule 32 positioned at, or around, the light source (26).
  • the on/off switching means 30 comprise a switch 62, preferably placed on the device body 24 and facing the crutch body 2 or the tubular core 14.
  • the crutch body 2 or the tubular core 14 comprises an abutment 34 for intercepting (and therefore pressing) the switch during the relative movement of at least one part of the lighting device 10 with respect to the tubular core 14.
  • the abutment 34 forms a stop for pressing the switch during said relative movement.
  • the abutment 34 preferably comprises or consists of a pin.
  • the switch 62 is arranged at least partly (for example completely) housed inside the device body 24, preferably inside the inner compartment 60.
  • the switch is placed on the device body 24 and faces the crutch body 2.
  • the crutch body 2 comprises said abutment 34.
  • the abutment 34 is in contact with, or fixed to, the crutch body 2.
  • the switch is placed on an end wall 36 of the device body 24.
  • the crutch 1 comprises spring means 38 which work with a thrust (for example constantly) between the device body 24 and the abutment 34 so as to separate the device body 24 and said abutment 34.
  • the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 comprises a casing 46 housing a pair of cam elements 42, 44, one 44 of said elements projecting outside the casing 46.
  • the casing 46 is formed by the union of a pair of half-casings 48, 50 which are joined (for example screwed) together.
  • the cam elements 42, 44 interact with each other in a bistable manner: in a first configuration the cam elements occupy overall an axial extension - with respect to the second direction T - which is smaller (for example see Fig. 4 - retracted position) than the axial extension in a second configuration (for example see Fig. 5 - partially extracted position).
  • the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 passes from the first configuration to the second configuration, and vice versa.
  • bistable interaction is described in US 3,205,863 A.
  • the first configuration of the cam elements 42, 44 corresponds preferably to the first axial position, while the second configuration of the cam elements 42, 44 corresponds preferably to the second axial position.
  • the lighting device in the crutch according to the present invention is concealed. Said concealment of the lighting device could be realized by means of the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 described above. According to another embodiment, the concealment of the lighting device could be obtained by means of a closing element which can be superimposed at least partially on the light source 26.
  • the closing element could be hinged with the second support 12 between a position where it is at least partially superimposed on the light source 26 and an offset position.
  • the light source 26 or a reflector 64 of said light source 26 is mounted in a pivotable manner with respect to the tubular core 14, in a direction incident with respect to the second direction T of the tubular core 14.
  • the light source 26 could be mounted on a reflector 64 connected to the device body 24 in a swivelling manner.
  • Said incident direction is for example a vertical, horizontal, or oblique direction with respect to said vertical and horizontal directions.
  • the light source 26 could be mounted in a pivotable manner, but could be devoid of a reflector or could have a reflector integral with the tubular core 14.
  • the reflector 64 could be mounted in a pivotable manner; in this latter case, the light source 26 could be movable together with the reflector 64 or could be integral with the tubular core 14 so that only the reflector 64 is pivotable.
  • the light source 26 or the reflector 64 of said light source 26 is mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation R with respect to the device body 24.
  • the axis of rotation R lies in a plane substantially orthogonal to the second direction T.
  • the light source 26 or the reflector 64 is mounted on a rotation shaft 66 rotatably about an axis of rotation R with respect to the device body 24.
  • the lighting device 10 comprises at least one operating element 68 connected to the rotation shaft 66 for moving the rotation shaft 66 - and consequently the light source 26 and/or the reflector 64 - about the rotation axis R.
  • the operating element 68 is realized in the form of a small wheel or cylinder (which is for example knurled or comprises a non-slip surface).
  • At least one operating element 68 is connected to an axial end of the rotation shaft 66, for example in a coaxial manner.
  • an operating element 68 is connected to each axial end of the rotation shaft 66.
  • the power supply battery 28 is of the rechargeable type. More preferably, the power supply battery 28 can be recharged in an inductive (contactless) manner or by means of a piezoelectric device. Even more preferably, recharging of said power supply battery is performed without having to extract the lighting device from the inner compartment.
  • piezoelectric is the characteristic associated with a device or crystal which, following a mechanical deformation of an elastic nature), polarizes electrically (namely is charged on opposite sides with opposite sign charges, resulting in a difference in electric potential).
  • said mechanical deformation could be caused by the movement of the crutch 1 .
  • the lighting device 10 comprises a rotor, which is mounted rotatably with respect to the crutch body 1 and is functionally connected to the power supply battery 28. Said functional connection is realized so that the rotor, by means of its rotational movement, generates - directly or indirectly - an electric current for recharging the power supply battery 28.
  • the touch switch is selected from the group consisting of a piezo-resistive, piezoelectric, capacitive or elastoresistive switch.
  • the switch could be positioned at the second support 12.
  • the switch could be arranged on, or be accessible from, a surface of the second support 12.
  • the switch could be accessible by means of through-opening through a thickness of the tubular core 14.
  • the switch could be movable (for example slidable) through a through-opening across a thickness of the tubular core 14.
  • the lighting device comprises means 52 for managing and controlling the at least one light source 26.
  • the management and control means 52 are configured to manage and control different lighting functions. For example, fixed light beam, intermittent light beam, adjustment of the lighting intensity, colour variation of the light beam.
  • the management and control means 52 are functionally connected to the swivelling portion (for example to the ferrule 32) of the lighting device 10 in order to manage and control different lighting functions.
  • the swivelling portion I ferrule could be rotatable so as to operate the management and control means 52 so that they adjust the lighting intensity or the variation in the colour of the light beam.
  • a crutch according to the prior art (to be revamped in order to provide the crutch according to the invention) comprises: a crutch body which extends in a longitudinal direction between a first portion and a second portion; a first support with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion; a second support, which extends in a second direction transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, wherein the second support comprises a tubular core which circumscribes an inner compartment, a first end of the tubular core being connected to the crutch body between the first support and the second portion, a second end of the tubular core - opposite to the first end - delimiting an access opening of the inner compartment; wherein the second support comprises an end wall which is superimposed so as to close the access opening of the inner compartment.
  • the lighting device 10 provided in step (II) of the revamping method is realized as described in any one of the embodiments here described.
  • the end wall is a closing element force- fitted into the first end.
  • the closing element comprises a reflective element.
  • the end wall is realized as a single piece from the same polymer material at least partially covering the tubular core 14.
  • said end wall comprises a reflective element 72.
  • the crutch according to the prior art could comprise a solid cylindrical core instead of the tubular core. Consequently, the revamping method could comprise a step of at least partially drilling the cylindrical core so as to create the tubular core. The drilling step is preferably performed following step (I).
  • step (I) comprises cutting said material around the end wall along a closed-loop cutting path, or removing said closing element from the first end.
  • the revamping method comprises - downstream of step (II) - a step of mounting the reflective element 72 on the lighting device 10, preferably on the device body 24.
  • the mounting step could be carried out before or after step (III).
  • the mounting step comprises any of the following: gluing, engaging, or fixing (for example using mechanical fixing means).
  • the reflective element 72 is mounted on the lighting device 10 in a position at the front of the latter.
  • Fig. 1 shows a side view of a possible embodiment of a crutch according to the present invention
  • Fig. 2 shows an exploded side view of the second support of the crutch according to Fig.1 , in which the lighting device, in accordance with a first embodiment, extracted from the tubular core is clearly visible;
  • Fig. 3 shows a front view of a second possible embodiment of the lighting device, in which the double arrow schematically indicates switching on (in the clockwise direction) or switching off (in the anti-clockwise direction) of the light source by means of rotation of the ferrule;
  • Figs. 4 and 5 show side views of another embodiment of the second support
  • Fig. 6 shows an exploded side view of the snap-action advancing or retracting device used in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5;
  • Fig. 7 shows a front perspective view of a second embodiment of a lighting device
  • Fig. 8 shows a longitudinally sectioned view of the lighting device according to Fig. 7.
  • Fig. 1 shows a side view of the crutch 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • the crutch 1 comprises the crutch body 2 which extends along the longitudinal direction X - a vertical direction according to the figure - between a first portion 4 and a second potion 6.
  • a first support 8 with an annular shape is connected to the first portion 4.
  • a foot 56 is connected to the second portion 6.
  • a second support 12 extends in a second direction T transverse or orthogonal (preferably orthogonal) to the longitudinal direction X.
  • the crutch body 2 could comprise one or more telescopic portions 54, 58 for adjusting - depending on the physical characteristics of a user - the distance between the first support 8 and the second support 12 and/or the distance between the second support 12 and the foot 56.
  • the second support 12 comprises a tubular core 14 circumscribing an inner compartment 16.
  • a first end 18 of the tubular core 14 is connected to the crutch body 2 between the first support 8 and the second portion 6.
  • a second end 20 of the tubular core 14 - opposite to the first end 18 - delimits an access opening 22 of the inner compartment 16.
  • a lighting device 10 is housed substantially completely inside the inner compartment 16.
  • Said lighting device 10 comprises a device body 24, at least one light source 26 configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment 16, at least one power supply battery 28, and means 30 for switching the light source 26 on/off.
  • the on/off switching means 30 are functionally interposed between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 26 so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source 26.
  • the on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least one part of the lighting device 10 relative to the tubular core 14.
  • said part of the lighting device 10 comprises a lever or a pushbutton 74.
  • At least one part of the lighting device 10 (for example all of said device) is slidable along the second direction T with respect to the tubular core 14.
  • the device body 24 is housed in the inner compartment 16 slidably between a first axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 26 and a second axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26.
  • the on/off switching means 30 comprise a switch placed on an end wall 36 of the device body 24 and facing the crutch body 2.
  • the crutch body 2 comprises an abutment 34 for intercepting (for example for pressing) the switch during said relative movement.
  • Spring means 38 of the crutch 1 extend between the end wall 36 and the abutment 34.
  • the abutment 34 acts an axial guide for the spring means 38, being mounted coaxially with said spring means 38.
  • the spring means 38 comprise at least one helical spring (shown cross-sectioned).
  • the spring means 38 work with a thrust between the device body 24 and the abutment 34 in order to separate the device body 24 and the abutment 34.
  • the switch comes into contact with the abutment 34, such that the on/off switching means 30 allow the flow of electric current from the power supply battery to the light source 26.
  • the spring means 38 bring the lighting device 10 back into the initial position.
  • the switch comes into contact again with the abutment 34 such that the on/off switching means 30 prevent the flow of electric current from the power supply battery 28 to the light source 26.
  • the on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a touch switch arranged at the light source 26.
  • Fig. 7 shows a lighting device 10 in accordance with a second embodiment.
  • the device body 24 comprises a first body portion 76 and a second body portion 82.
  • the first body portion 76 has a sufficiently narrow and elongate shape that it may be inserted substantially entirely inside the inner compartment 16.
  • the first body portion 76 circumscribes at least partly a battery compartment 78 for said at least one power supply battery 28.
  • the second body portion 82 has a radial encumbrance/volume - with respect to the second direction T - greater than the first body portion 76 and, when the device is housed predominantly or completely in the inner compartment 16, said second body portion 82 protrudes outside of the inner compartment 16.
  • a pushbutton 74 On a top end of the second body portion 82 there is arranged, for example in a manner projecting from the second body portion 82, a pushbutton 74, functionally connected to a switch 62, the latter being visible in Fig. 8.
  • a window 70 for emitting the light beam is arranged at a bottom end of the second body portion 82 .
  • Said window 70 extends radially with respect to the second direction T on the side of the second portion 6 (namely downwards).
  • the light source 26 and/or the window 70 are oriented so as to project the light beam towards the second portion 6 and/or in front of the second portion 6 in a walking direction using the crutch 1 in a forward position.
  • the present crutch 1 is designed to allow the user to illuminate and see more clearly the area opposite the second portion 6 and therefore easily make out any obstacles, roughness in the ground, steps, etc. when walking forwards.
  • the device body 24 is configured so that at least the window 70 is positioned vertically below the tubular core 14.
  • the second body portion 82 is closed by a closing element 84 removably connected to the second body portion 82.
  • the closing element 84 can be accessed at the front of the lighting device and therefore the crutch 1 .
  • the lighting device 10 comprises at least one operating element 68 connected to a rotation shaft 66 so as to move the rotation shaft 66 - and therefore a light source 26 and/or a reflector 64 - about an axis of rotation R.
  • the operating element 68 may be realized in the form of a small wheel or cylinder. In the embodiment shown, two operating elements 68 project from opposite sides of the device 24.
  • a reflective element 72 is mounted on the lighting device 10 in a front position of the latter, in particular on the closing element 84. Said reflective element 72 may be recovered from a revamped crutch, as discussed above.
  • Fig. 8 shows a longitudinally sectioned view of the lighting device according to Fig. 7.
  • the battery compartment 78 of the first body portion 76 communicates with the device compartment 60.
  • the battery compartment 78 is configured to house more than one power supply battery 28, at least part of one of said power supply batteries 28 projecting into the device compartment 60.
  • the power supply batteries 28 abut against electrical contacts 86, 88.
  • An electrical contact 86 is fixed to the closing element 84.
  • the other electrical contact 88 is located at the distal end (situated furthest away) of the battery compartment 78
  • the pushbutton 74 passes through a hole formed in a thickness of the second body portion 82 and is functionally connected to the switch 62.
  • a heat dissipator 90 in thermal contact with the light source 26 (hidden from view in Fig. 8), a reflector 64 and the rotation shaft 66 are visible.
  • the rotation shaft 66 is housed rotatably between a pair of supports.
  • the light source 26, or the reflector 64, or both of them, is/are fixed to the rotation shaft 66.
  • the operating element 68 so as to move it (for example rotate it)
  • the light source 26, or the reflector 64, or both of then are rotated in a similar manner by the rotation shaft 66.
  • the light beam may be directed in a personalized manner.
  • the device body 24 shown in Fig. 8 is configured so that both the light source 26 and the window 70 are positioned vertically below the tubular core 14. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS
  • light source preferably at least one LED (light emitting diode) source
  • lever or pushbutton 76 first body portion

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Abstract

Crutch (1), for example a Canadian-type crutch, comprising: (a) a crutch body (20) extending in a longitudinal direction (X) between a first portion (4) and a second portion (6); (b) a first support (8) with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion (4); (c) a second support (12), extending in a second direction (T) transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (X), whereon the second support (12) comprises a tubular core (14) circumscribing an inner compartment (16), a first end (18) of the tubular core (14) being connected to the crutch body (2) between the first support (8) and the second portion (6), a second end (20) of the tubular body (14) - opposite to the first end (8) - delimiting an access opening (22) of the inner compartment (16); (d) a lighting device (10), predominantly or completely housed in the inner compartment (16) and comprising a device body (24), at least one light source (26) configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment (16), at least one power supply battery (28) and means (30) for switching the light source (26) on/off, functionally interposed between the power supply battery (28) and the light source (26) so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source (26); The on/off switching means (30) can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least a part of the lighting device (10) relative to the tubular core (14), or by means of a touch switch arranged at the light source (16), or by means of a switch positioned at the second support (12).

Description

“Crutch, crutch assembly, and revamping method
DESCRIPTION
Field of the invention
The invention falls within the sector of personal mobility aids for helping overcome motor difficulties which limit the walking ability of a person.
Prior art
The use of a pair crutches, or even only one crutch, as a walking aid is a need which may be determined by a movement difficulty or temporary or permanent invalidity of a person.
There exist various types of crutches which differ mainly as regards the type of support which is offered to a person. Purely by way of example, so-called “axillary” crutches may be positioned against the rib cage and arranged under the armpit.
However, a common feature of most crutches is that they must be gripped whilst walking such that one or both hands may be occupied during the assisted walking movement.
In the case of a person using crutches as a walking aid, the presence of little or no light may be a potential source of danger, said danger being greater than for a person who is able to walk normally without the use of aids. Said danger may consist for example of a fall due to the fact that there is little or no light, while also having one’s hands occupied. Having one’s hands occupied with holding a crutch means that the arms react more slowly and/or it is more difficult to grab hold of a handrail or find support on a surface in the event of an emergency, in order to avoid or break the impact of a fall.
The present invention therefore relates to a crutch which is able to overcome the drawbacks arising from the prior art. i In particular, the invention reduces the risk that a user of the crutch according to the present invention, i.e. a person who perse is vulnerable, may trip over. Said reduced risk arises obviously from the lighting produced by the lighting device with which the crutch is equipped, but in particular from the method of switching the light source on and off which is described here, said method not involving the user having to remove their hands from the crutch support and therefore maintaining the mechanical supporting action on the crutch which transfers at least part of the user’s body weight to the ground.
DE202015002774U1 describes a crutch according to the prior art.
Summary of the invention
The object of the invention is to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art.
The aforementioned objects are achieved by means of a crutch 1 according to claim 1 .
In the present invention the crutch 1 comprises: (a) a crutch body 2 extending in a longitudinal direction X between a first portion 4 and a second portion 6; (b) a first support 8 with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion 4; (c) a second support 12, extending in a direction transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction X, wherein the second support 12 comprises a tubular core 14 circumscribing an inner compartment 16, a first end 18 of the tubular core 14 being connected to the crutch body 2 between the first support 8 and the second portion 6, a second end 20 of the tubular core 14 - opposite to the first end 18 - delimiting an access opening 22 of the inner compartment 16; and (d) a lighting device 10. Said lighting device 10 is predominantly or completely housed in the inner compartment 16 and comprises a device body 24, at least one light source 26 configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment 16, at least one power supply battery 28 and means 30 for switching the light source 26 on/off, functionally interposed between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 26 so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source 26. The on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least a part of the lighting device 10 relative to the tubular core 14, or by means of a touch switch arranged at the light source 26, or by means of a switch positioned at the second support 12.
The present invention also relates to a pair of crutches or a crutch assembly, wherein only one of said crutches is made according to any embodiment of the present invention, the other crutch being devoid of said lighting device.
The present invention also relates to a pair of crutches or a crutch assembly, wherein both the crutches are made according to any embodiment of the present invention.
The present invention relates, finally, to revamping method for a crutch.
More precisely, said method comprises the following steps: (I) removing at least part of an end wall superimposed so as to close the access opening of the inner compartment, in order to open the access opening; (II) providing said lighting device; (III) through the access opening, housing an optional abutment and the lighting device predominantly or completely in the inner compartment, the light source being configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment.
The invention has the following advantages.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention is practically indistinguishable for the user in terms of the static and dynamic behaviour.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention is not even visually different from a crutch of the prior art as a result of the specific positioning and housing of the lighting device and the possible presence of a covering element.
Advantageously, the positioning of the lighting device inside the tubular core provides, in addition to a containment space which is not made of use of in the prior art, easy access to the on/off switching means, as well as a location which is not disturbed by the movements of the crutch during use.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention does not have a weight which is significantly greater than that of a crutch according to the prior art. Thus, even only one crutch of a pair may be implemented or modified with the device according to the invention, without however causing problems during the walking movement.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention has been designed so that it can be operated, and if necessary oriented, without the user having to remove their hands from the support.
Advantageously, the crutch device according to the present invention can be operated with simple movements of the fingers, these movements being possible without having to take one’s hand off the support.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention is able to maintain stable lighting, namely lighting which substantially does not oscillate during the walking movement.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention has a special ergonomic design which allows the lighting device to be used in the manner of a conventional torch.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention may be of the folding type and is therefore able to save space.
Advantageously, the crutch according to the present invention may be used also in damp environments and/or may come into contact with water without suffering damage.
Advantageously, the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention may be provided with different lighting functions, so that it can be adapted to different requirements.
Advantageously, the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention uses a miniaturized light source with low energy consumption.
Advantageously, the lighting device of the crutch according to the present invention may comprise one or more light sources so as to be able to provide a large degree of freedom in the design and use of the present crutch.
Advantageously, the lighting device in the crutch according to the present invention may comprise a reflector which has a reflective function, for example when the light source is switched off.
In this description, the expression “reflective” is understood as meaning an optical device with reflective light, consisting of a small glass or plastic plate on which numerous identical reflectors are provided, preferably by means of moulding.
Advantageously, the light source or a reflector of the light source in the present crutch can be oriented as required with at least one degree of freedom.
Advantageously, the lighting device can be easily extracted from the tubular core of the crutch according to the present invention. Said extraction possibility may be exploited in order to carry out maintenance operations of a routine nature (for example in order to replace or recharge the at least one power supply battery) or extraordinary nature (for example in order to change the lighting device or parts thereof).
Advantageously, the configuration of the lighting device is such that the light source may be placed in a position very close to the second portion and therefore light sources having less power may be used for the same area illuminated by said source.
Advantageously in the crutch according to the present invention the power supply battery may be replaced without removing the lighting device from the second support.
Advantageously, the primary function of the present crutch is to allow the user thereof an improved vision and not that of improving the visibility of the user for other users along a road. However, this latter function could also be provided together with the first function.
Advantageously, in the crutch according to the present invention, the light beam may be directed depending on the distance between the second support and a foot situated on the second portion and therefore depending on the height or preferences of the user.
Advantageously, the revamping method according to the present invention allows most of the already existing crutches to be modified and converted into crutches according to the invention.
Preferred embodiments
The crutch is preferably a Canadian-type or Lofstrand crutch.
Preferably, the crutch body 2 is of the folding type.
In accordance with an embodiment (not shown), the crutch body 2 could be made as two or more parts, which are coupled together releasably in terms of both form and/or force (e.g. interlocking fit). Preferably, said two or more parts are crossed by one or more tie elements which exert a pulling force so as to keep the two or more parts coupled together.
Preferably, the device body 24 comprises a first body portion 76 and a second body portion 82.
In accordance with an embodiment, the first body portion 76 has a sufficiently narrow and elongate shape that it may be inserted substantially entirely inside the inner compartment 16. Preferably, the first body portion 76 circumscribes at least part of a battery compartment 78 for said at least one power supply battery 28.
In accordance with another embodiment, the second body portion 82 has a radial encumbrance - with respect to the second direction T - greater than the first body portion 76 and projects outside of the inner compartment 16. The second body portion 82 preferably houses the light source 26. By way of example, the second body portion 82 could have a generally semi-spherical shape.
Preferably, the inner compartment 16 is sealingly closed by the lighting device 10. In this connection, in one embodiment, the crutch could comprise one or more sealing elements mechanically interposed between an outer surface of the lighting device 10 (for example of the device body 24) and the tubular core 14 (for example an inner surface thereof).
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 8, a sealing element is made as an annular lip 80 projecting from the device body 24. For example, the annular lip 80 could be co-moulded together with, or overmoulded onto, the device body 24, preferably using a polymer material which is the same as or different from the polymer material of the device body 24. The annular lip 80 is preferably positioned in a zone which connects together the first body portion 76 and the second body portion 82.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment, the device body 24 delimits at least one device compartment 60, which is preferably sealed (i.e. water-tight). Preferably, the device compartment 60 houses at least part of the power supply battery 28 and at least part of the electric contacts between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 28. Preferably, the second body portion 82 delimits at least part of the device compartment 60.
Preferably, the device compartment 60 is closed (for example sealed) by a closing element 84 which is removably connected to the device body 24 and, more precisely, to the second body portion 82. More preferably, an electrical contact 86 of the power supply battery 28 is fixed to the closing element 84. According to a preferred embodiment, the closing element 84 is accessible from the front of the crutch 1 , namely without the lighting device having to be extracted from the inner compartment 16.
In accordance with an advantageous embodiment, the device body 24 (for example the second body portion 82) delimits a window 70 for the light beam which extends radially with respect to the second direction T on the side of the second portion 6, namely downwards according to the orientation shown in the figures.
In accordance with one embodiment, the window 70 is closed, so that it comprises an element which is at least partially permeable to the light beam and which prevents access to the device compartment 60. In accordance with another embodiment, the window 70 is open and therefore delimited by a frame, but does not have an element which is at least partially permeable to the light beam.
Preferably, the light source 26 and/or the window 70 are oriented so as to project the light beams towards the second portion 6 and/or in front of the second portion 6. The expression “in front of” refers to a walking direction where the crutch 1 is held in a forward position.
In accordance with another embodiment, the device body 24 is configured so that at least one of said light source 26 and said window 70 (for example both of them) is/are positioned vertically underneath the tubular core 14.
In accordance with one embodiment, at least one part of the lighting device 10 is slidable along the second direction T or is rotatable about an axis parallel to the second direction T, relative to the tubular core 14.
Preferably, the entire lighting device 10 is slidable along the second direction T.
In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the lighting device is integral with the tubular core 14, namely it is neither slidable nor rotatable with respect to the tubular core 14 in order to operate the on/off switching means 30. Preferably, the crutch 1 comprises at least one adaptor body mechanically interposed between the outer surface of the lighting device 10 (for example of the device body 24) and the tubular core 14 (for example the inner surface thereof). Said adaptor body is preferably provided in order to reduce or eliminate any play between the lighting device 10 and the tubular core 14. In accordance with different embodiments, the adaptor body has an annular, frustoconical or cylindrical shape.
More preferably, the device body 24 is housed in the inner compartment 16 slidably between a first axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 16 and a second axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26.
By way of example (see Fig. 4), the first axial position could be a retracted position of the device body 24 inside the inner compartment 16, or wherein the lighting device 10 terminates substantially flush with the access opening 22. By way of a further example (Fig. 5), the second axial position is a position where the device body 24 or the lighting device 10 is partially extracted from the inner compartment 16.
Preferably, only an swivelling portion (for example a ferrule 32) of the lighting device 10 is rotatable about an axis parallel to the second direction T.
More preferably, the lighting device 10 comprises at least one swivelling portion rotatable about an axis of rotation parallel to the second direction (T) between a first angular position (for example Fig. 3, “OFF” position), in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 26, and a second angular position (for example Fig. 3, “ON” position), in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26. Even more preferably, the swivelling portion comprises or consists of a ferrule 32 positioned at, or around, the light source (26).
In accordance with one embodiment, the on/off switching means 30 comprise a switch 62, preferably placed on the device body 24 and facing the crutch body 2 or the tubular core 14. The crutch body 2 or the tubular core 14 comprises an abutment 34 for intercepting (and therefore pressing) the switch during the relative movement of at least one part of the lighting device 10 with respect to the tubular core 14.
Therefore, the abutment 34 forms a stop for pressing the switch during said relative movement. The abutment 34 preferably comprises or consists of a pin.
In accordance with one embodiment, the switch 62 is arranged at least partly (for example completely) housed inside the device body 24, preferably inside the inner compartment 60.
In accordance with another embodiment, the switch is placed on the device body 24 and faces the crutch body 2. Preferably, the crutch body 2 comprises said abutment 34. By way of example, the abutment 34 is in contact with, or fixed to, the crutch body 2.
In accordance with the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the switch is placed on an end wall 36 of the device body 24. The crutch 1 comprises spring means 38 which work with a thrust (for example constantly) between the device body 24 and the abutment 34 so as to separate the device body 24 and said abutment 34.
Preferably, the elastic means 38:
(i) are integrated in the lighting device 10 or in the switch of the lighting device 10; or
(ii) extend between the bottom wall 36 and the abutment 34, said abutment 34 acting preferably as an axial guide for the spring means 38 (for example acting as a spring guide); or
(iii) are integrated in a snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 mechanically interposed between the abutment 34 and the lighting device 10.
Preferably, the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 comprises a casing 46 housing a pair of cam elements 42, 44, one 44 of said elements projecting outside the casing 46. Preferably, the casing 46 is formed by the union of a pair of half-casings 48, 50 which are joined (for example screwed) together. The cam elements 42, 44 interact with each other in a bistable manner: in a first configuration the cam elements occupy overall an axial extension - with respect to the second direction T - which is smaller (for example see Fig. 4 - retracted position) than the axial extension in a second configuration (for example see Fig. 5 - partially extracted position).
Each time the projecting cam element 44 is pressed, the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 passes from the first configuration to the second configuration, and vice versa.
By way of example, said bistable interaction is described in US 3,205,863 A.
The first configuration of the cam elements 42, 44 corresponds preferably to the first axial position, while the second configuration of the cam elements 42, 44 corresponds preferably to the second axial position.
In accordance with one embodiment, the lighting device in the crutch according to the present invention is concealed. Said concealment of the lighting device could be realized by means of the snap-action advancing or retracting device 40 described above. According to another embodiment, the concealment of the lighting device could be obtained by means of a closing element which can be superimposed at least partially on the light source 26. For example, the closing element could be hinged with the second support 12 between a position where it is at least partially superimposed on the light source 26 and an offset position.
In accordance with one embodiment, the light source 26 or a reflector 64 of said light source 26 is mounted in a pivotable manner with respect to the tubular core 14, in a direction incident with respect to the second direction T of the tubular core 14. By way of example, the light source 26 could be mounted on a reflector 64 connected to the device body 24 in a swivelling manner. Said incident direction is for example a vertical, horizontal, or oblique direction with respect to said vertical and horizontal directions.
Therefore, in these embodiments, the light source 26 could be mounted in a pivotable manner, but could be devoid of a reflector or could have a reflector integral with the tubular core 14. Alternatively, the reflector 64 could be mounted in a pivotable manner; in this latter case, the light source 26 could be movable together with the reflector 64 or could be integral with the tubular core 14 so that only the reflector 64 is pivotable.
Preferably, the light source 26 or the reflector 64 of said light source 26 is mounted rotatably about an axis of rotation R with respect to the device body 24. In the embodiments illustrated, the axis of rotation R lies in a plane substantially orthogonal to the second direction T.
Preferably, the light source 26 or the reflector 64 is mounted on a rotation shaft 66 rotatably about an axis of rotation R with respect to the device body 24.
More preferably, the lighting device 10 comprises at least one operating element 68 connected to the rotation shaft 66 for moving the rotation shaft 66 - and consequently the light source 26 and/or the reflector 64 - about the rotation axis R.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, the operating element 68 is realized in the form of a small wheel or cylinder (which is for example knurled or comprises a non-slip surface).
In accordance with one embodiment, at least one operating element 68 is connected to an axial end of the rotation shaft 66, for example in a coaxial manner. Preferably, an operating element 68 is connected to each axial end of the rotation shaft 66.
In accordance with another embodiment, the power supply battery 28 is of the rechargeable type. More preferably, the power supply battery 28 can be recharged in an inductive (contactless) manner or by means of a piezoelectric device. Even more preferably, recharging of said power supply battery is performed without having to extract the lighting device from the inner compartment.
In this description, the expression “piezoelectric” is the characteristic associated with a device or crystal which, following a mechanical deformation of an elastic nature), polarizes electrically (namely is charged on opposite sides with opposite sign charges, resulting in a difference in electric potential). For example, said mechanical deformation could be caused by the movement of the crutch 1 .
In accordance with another embodiment, the lighting device 10 comprises a rotor, which is mounted rotatably with respect to the crutch body 1 and is functionally connected to the power supply battery 28. Said functional connection is realized so that the rotor, by means of its rotational movement, generates - directly or indirectly - an electric current for recharging the power supply battery 28.
In accordance with other embodiments, the touch switch is selected from the group consisting of a piezo-resistive, piezoelectric, capacitive or elastoresistive switch.
In accordance with a further embodiment, the switch could be positioned at the second support 12.
For example, the switch could be arranged on, or be accessible from, a surface of the second support 12.
By way of a further example, the switch could be accessible by means of through-opening through a thickness of the tubular core 14. By way of a yet another example, the switch could be movable (for example slidable) through a through-opening across a thickness of the tubular core 14.
Preferably, the lighting device comprises means 52 for managing and controlling the at least one light source 26. Preferably, the management and control means 52 are configured to manage and control different lighting functions. For example, fixed light beam, intermittent light beam, adjustment of the lighting intensity, colour variation of the light beam.
More preferably, the management and control means 52 are functionally connected to the swivelling portion (for example to the ferrule 32) of the lighting device 10 in order to manage and control different lighting functions. For example, the swivelling portion I ferrule could be rotatable so as to operate the management and control means 52 so that they adjust the lighting intensity or the variation in the colour of the light beam.
In connection with the revamping method it is pointed out that a crutch according to the prior art (to be revamped in order to provide the crutch according to the invention) comprises: a crutch body which extends in a longitudinal direction between a first portion and a second portion; a first support with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion; a second support, which extends in a second direction transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, wherein the second support comprises a tubular core which circumscribes an inner compartment, a first end of the tubular core being connected to the crutch body between the first support and the second portion, a second end of the tubular core - opposite to the first end - delimiting an access opening of the inner compartment; wherein the second support comprises an end wall which is superimposed so as to close the access opening of the inner compartment.
Preferably, the lighting device 10 provided in step (II) of the revamping method is realized as described in any one of the embodiments here described.
In accordance with one embodiment, the end wall is a closing element force- fitted into the first end. For example, the closing element comprises a reflective element.
In accordance with another embodiment, the end wall is realized as a single piece from the same polymer material at least partially covering the tubular core 14. For example, said end wall comprises a reflective element 72.
In accordance with a further embodiment, the crutch according to the prior art could comprise a solid cylindrical core instead of the tubular core. Consequently, the revamping method could comprise a step of at least partially drilling the cylindrical core so as to create the tubular core. The drilling step is preferably performed following step (I).
In a preferred embodiment, step (I) comprises cutting said material around the end wall along a closed-loop cutting path, or removing said closing element from the first end.
In another embodiment, the revamping method comprises - downstream of step (II) - a step of mounting the reflective element 72 on the lighting device 10, preferably on the device body 24. The mounting step could be carried out before or after step (III). Preferably, the mounting step comprises any of the following: gluing, engaging, or fixing (for example using mechanical fixing means). In accordance with one embodiment, the reflective element 72 is mounted on the lighting device 10 in a position at the front of the latter.
The advantages of the invention will emerge even more clearly from the detailed description given below based on the attached figures provided by way of example and therefore of a non-limiting nature.
Description of the figures
Fig. 1 shows a side view of a possible embodiment of a crutch according to the present invention;
Fig. 2 shows an exploded side view of the second support of the crutch according to Fig.1 , in which the lighting device, in accordance with a first embodiment, extracted from the tubular core is clearly visible;
Fig. 3 shows a front view of a second possible embodiment of the lighting device, in which the double arrow schematically indicates switching on (in the clockwise direction) or switching off (in the anti-clockwise direction) of the light source by means of rotation of the ferrule;
Figs. 4 and 5 show side views of another embodiment of the second support;
Fig. 6 shows an exploded side view of the snap-action advancing or retracting device used in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5;
Fig. 7 shows a front perspective view of a second embodiment of a lighting device;
Fig. 8 shows a longitudinally sectioned view of the lighting device according to Fig. 7.
Detailed description of the device according to a preferred embodiment
Fig. 1 shows a side view of the crutch 1 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
The crutch 1 comprises the crutch body 2 which extends along the longitudinal direction X - a vertical direction according to the figure - between a first portion 4 and a second potion 6.
A first support 8 with an annular shape is connected to the first portion 4.
A foot 56 is connected to the second portion 6.
A second support 12 extends in a second direction T transverse or orthogonal (preferably orthogonal) to the longitudinal direction X.
The crutch body 2 could comprise one or more telescopic portions 54, 58 for adjusting - depending on the physical characteristics of a user - the distance between the first support 8 and the second support 12 and/or the distance between the second support 12 and the foot 56. With reference to Fig. 2, the second support 12 comprises a tubular core 14 circumscribing an inner compartment 16. A first end 18 of the tubular core 14 is connected to the crutch body 2 between the first support 8 and the second portion 6. A second end 20 of the tubular core 14 - opposite to the first end 18 - delimits an access opening 22 of the inner compartment 16.
A lighting device 10 is housed substantially completely inside the inner compartment 16. Said lighting device 10 comprises a device body 24, at least one light source 26 configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment 16, at least one power supply battery 28, and means 30 for switching the light source 26 on/off. The on/off switching means 30 are functionally interposed between the power supply battery 28 and the light source 26 so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source 26.
In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least one part of the lighting device 10 relative to the tubular core 14. Preferably, said part of the lighting device 10 comprises a lever or a pushbutton 74.
In particular, in the embodiment shown, at least one part of the lighting device 10 (for example all of said device) is slidable along the second direction T with respect to the tubular core 14.
The device body 24 is housed in the inner compartment 16 slidably between a first axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source 26 and a second axial position in which the on/off switching means 30 are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source 26.
More precisely, the on/off switching means 30 comprise a switch placed on an end wall 36 of the device body 24 and facing the crutch body 2. The crutch body 2 comprises an abutment 34 for intercepting (for example for pressing) the switch during said relative movement. Spring means 38 of the crutch 1 extend between the end wall 36 and the abutment 34. The abutment 34 acts an axial guide for the spring means 38, being mounted coaxially with said spring means 38. By way of example, the spring means 38 comprise at least one helical spring (shown cross-sectioned). The spring means 38 work with a thrust between the device body 24 and the abutment 34 in order to separate the device body 24 and the abutment 34.
When the lighting device 10 is pressed a first time - against the action of the spring means 38 - in the direction of the crutch body 2, the switch comes into contact with the abutment 34, such that the on/off switching means 30 allow the flow of electric current from the power supply battery to the light source 26. When pressure is no longer exerted, the spring means 38 bring the lighting device 10 back into the initial position.
When the lighting device 10 is pressed a second time in the same direction, the switch comes into contact again with the abutment 34 such that the on/off switching means 30 prevent the flow of electric current from the power supply battery 28 to the light source 26.
According to an embodiment (not shown), the on/off switching means 30 can be operated by means of a touch switch arranged at the light source 26.
Fig. 7 shows a lighting device 10 in accordance with a second embodiment.
The device body 24 comprises a first body portion 76 and a second body portion 82. The first body portion 76 has a sufficiently narrow and elongate shape that it may be inserted substantially entirely inside the inner compartment 16.
The first body portion 76 circumscribes at least partly a battery compartment 78 for said at least one power supply battery 28. The second body portion 82 has a radial encumbrance/volume - with respect to the second direction T - greater than the first body portion 76 and, when the device is housed predominantly or completely in the inner compartment 16, said second body portion 82 protrudes outside of the inner compartment 16.
On a top end of the second body portion 82 there is arranged, for example in a manner projecting from the second body portion 82, a pushbutton 74, functionally connected to a switch 62, the latter being visible in Fig. 8.
A window 70 for emitting the light beam is arranged at a bottom end of the second body portion 82 . Said window 70 extends radially with respect to the second direction T on the side of the second portion 6 (namely downwards).
The light source 26 and/or the window 70 are oriented so as to project the light beam towards the second portion 6 and/or in front of the second portion 6 in a walking direction using the crutch 1 in a forward position. In other words, the present crutch 1 is designed to allow the user to illuminate and see more clearly the area opposite the second portion 6 and therefore easily make out any obstacles, roughness in the ground, steps, etc. when walking forwards.
The device body 24 is configured so that at least the window 70 is positioned vertically below the tubular core 14.
The second body portion 82 is closed by a closing element 84 removably connected to the second body portion 82. The closing element 84 can be accessed at the front of the lighting device and therefore the crutch 1 .
At the window 70, the lighting device 10 comprises at least one operating element 68 connected to a rotation shaft 66 so as to move the rotation shaft 66 - and therefore a light source 26 and/or a reflector 64 - about an axis of rotation R. The operating element 68 may be realized in the form of a small wheel or cylinder. In the embodiment shown, two operating elements 68 project from opposite sides of the device 24.
A reflective element 72 is mounted on the lighting device 10 in a front position of the latter, in particular on the closing element 84. Said reflective element 72 may be recovered from a revamped crutch, as discussed above. Fig. 8 shows a longitudinally sectioned view of the lighting device according to Fig. 7.
In this figure it can be noted how the battery compartment 78 of the first body portion 76 communicates with the device compartment 60. The battery compartment 78 is configured to house more than one power supply battery 28, at least part of one of said power supply batteries 28 projecting into the device compartment 60. The power supply batteries 28 abut against electrical contacts 86, 88. An electrical contact 86 is fixed to the closing element 84. The other electrical contact 88 is located at the distal end (situated furthest away) of the battery compartment 78
The pushbutton 74 passes through a hole formed in a thickness of the second body portion 82 and is functionally connected to the switch 62.
In the bottom part of the second body portion 82 a heat dissipator 90 in thermal contact with the light source 26 (hidden from view in Fig. 8), a reflector 64 and the rotation shaft 66 are visible.
The rotation shaft 66 is housed rotatably between a pair of supports. The light source 26, or the reflector 64, or both of them, is/are fixed to the rotation shaft 66. In this way, when the user operates, for example using a finger, the operating element 68 so as to move it (for example rotate it), the light source 26, or the reflector 64, or both of then are rotated in a similar manner by the rotation shaft 66. In this way the light beam may be directed in a personalized manner.
It is pointed out that the device body 24 shown in Fig. 8 is configured so that both the light source 26 and the window 70 are positioned vertically below the tubular core 14. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS
1 crutch
2 crutch body
4 first portion, preferably upper portion
6 second portion, preferably lower portion
8 first support or arm-rest
10 lighting device
12 second support or handgrip
14 tubular core
16 inner compartment
18 first end of the tubular core
20 second end of the tubular core
22 access opening
24 device body
26 light source, preferably at least one LED (light emitting diode) source
28 power supply battery
30 on/off switching means
32 ferrule
34 abutment 36 end wall
38 spring means
40 snap-action advancing or retracting device
42 cam element
44 cam element
46 casing
48 half-casing
50 half-casing
52 management and control means
54 telescopic portion
56 foot or base-piece, preferably made of polymer material
58 telescopic portion
60 device compartment
62 switch
64 reflector
66 rotation shaft
68 operating element
70 window
72 reflective element
74 lever or pushbutton 76 first body portion
78 battery compartment
80 annular lip
82 second body portion 84 closing element
86 electrical contact
88 electrical contact
90 heat dissipator
R rotation axis T second direction
X longitudinal direction

Claims

CLAIMS Crutch (1), e.g. Canadian-type crutch, comprising:
(a) a crutch body (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (X) between a first portion (4) and a second portion (6);
(b) a first support (8) with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion (4);
(c) a second support (12), extending in a second direction (T) transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (X), wherein the second support (12) comprises a tubular core (14) circumscribing an inner compartment (16), a first end (18) of the tubular core (14) being connected to the crutch body (2) between the first support (8) and the second portion (6), a second end (20) of the tubular core (14) - opposite to the first end (18) - delimiting an access opening (22) of the inner compartment (16);
(d) a lighting device (10), predominantly or completely housed in the inner compartment (16) and comprising a device body (24), at least one light source (26) configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment (16), at least one power supply battery (28) and means (30) for switching the light source (26) on/off, functionally interposed between the power supply battery (28) and the light source (26) so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source (26); wherein said on/off switching means (30) can be operated by means of a relative movement of at least a part of the lighting device (10) relative to the tubular core (14), or by means of a touch switch positioned at the light source (26), or by means of a switch positioned at the second support (12); wherein the device body (24) delimits at least one window (70) for the light beam which extends radially with respect to the second direction (T) on the side of the second portion (6). Crutch (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the light source (26) and/or the window (70) are oriented so as to project the light beam to the second portion (6) and/or in front of the second portion (6) in a walking direction when using the crutch (1 ) in a forward position. Crutch (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the device body (24) is configured so that at least one of said light source (26) and said window (70), for example both of them, is/are positioned vertically underneath the tubular core (14). Crutch (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one part of the lighting device (10) is slidable along the second direction (T) or rotatable about an axis parallel to the second direction (T) with respect to the tubular core (14), and wherein:
- the device body (24) is housed in the inner compartment (16) in a sliding manner between a first axial position in which the on/off switching means (30) are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source (26), and a second axial position in which the on/off switching means (30) are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source (26); or
- the lighting device (10) comprises at least one swivelling portion rotatable about an axis of rotation parallel to the second direction (T) between a first angular position wherein the on/off switching means (30) are arranged in a configuration for preventing the flow of electric current to the light source (26), and a second angular position wherein the on/off switching means (30) are arranged in a configuration for allowing the flow of electric current to the light source (26); preferably wherein said swivelling portion comprises or consists of a ferrule (32) positioned at, or around, the light source (26).
5. Crutch (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the on/off switching means (30) comprise a switch placed on the device body (24) and facing the crutch body (2) or the tubular core (14), and wherein the crutch body (2) or the tubular core (14) comprises an abutment (34) for intercepting the switch during said relative movement; preferably wherein the switch is placed on the device body (24) and faces the crutch body (2), and preferably wherein the crutch body (2) comprises said abutment (34).
6. Crutch (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the switch is placed on an end wall (36) of the device body (24), and wherein said crutch (1 ) comprises spring means (38) working with a thrust between the device body (24) and the abutment (34) so as to separate said device body (24) and said abutment (34).
7. Crutch (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein said spring means (38):
(i) are integrated in the lighting device (10) or in the switch of the lighting device (10); or
(ii) extend between the end wall (36) and the abutment (34), and wherein said abutment (34) acts as an axial guide for the spring means (38); or
(iii) are integrated in a snap-action advancing or retracting device (40) mechanically interposed between the abutment (34) and the lighting device (10).
8. Crutch (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the light source (26) or a reflector (64) of said light source (26) is mounted in a pivotable manner with respect to the tubular core (14), in a direction incident with respect to the second direction (T) of the tubular core (14), for example in a vertical direction, a horizontal direction or an oblique direction with respect to said vertical and horizontal directions; preferably wherein the light source (26) is mounted on a reflector (64) connected to the device body (24) in a swivelling manner. Crutch (1 ) according to the preceding claim, wherein the light source (26) or the reflector (26) is mounted on a rotation shaft (66) rotatably about an axis of rotation (R) with respect to the device body (24), and wherein said lighting device (10) comprises at least one operating element (68) connected to the rotation shaft (66) so as to move said rotation shaft (66) - and consequently the light source (26) or the reflector (64) - about the axis of rotation (R). Crutch (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least one operating element (68) is connected to an axial end of the rotation shaft (66). Crutch (1 ) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the axis of rotation (R) lies in a plane substantially orthogonal with respect to the second direction (T). Pair of crutches or crutch assembly, wherein only one (1 ) of said crutches is made according to any one of the preceding claims, the other crutch being devoid of said lighting device (10). Revamping method for a crutch; wherein said crutch comprises:
(a) a crutch body extending in a longitudinal direction between a first portion and a second portion;
(b) a first support with an annular or semi-annular shape, connected to the first portion; (c) a second support, extending in a second direction transverse or orthogonal to the longitudinal direction, wherein said second support comprises a tubular core circumscribing an inner compartment, a first end of said tubular core being connected to the crutch body between the first support and the second portion, a second end of said tubular core - opposite to the first end - delimiting an access opening of the inner compartment; wherein said second support comprises an end wall superimposed so as to close the access opening of the inner compartment; wherein said revamping method comprises steps of:
(I) removing at least part of the end wall so as to open the access opening (22);
(II) providing a lighting device (10) comprising a device body (24), at least one light source (26), at least one power supply battery (28) and means (30) for switching the light source (26) on/off, functionally interposed between the power supply battery (28) and the light source (26) so as to allow or prevent a flow of electric current to the light source (26);
(III) through the access opening (22), housing an optional abutment (34) and the lighting device (10) predominantly or completely in the inner compartment (16), the light source (26) being configured and/or oriented to project a light beam out of the inner compartment (16); preferably the lighting device (10) being as described in any one of claims 1-11. Revamping method according to the preceding claim, wherein the end wall is made as a single piece from the same polymer material at least partially covering the tubular core (14), and wherein step (I) comprises cutting said material around the end wall along a closed-loop cutting perimeter. Revamping method according to claims 13 or 14, wherein the end wall comprises a reflective element (72), and wherein the revamping method comprises - downstream of step (II) - a step of mounting the reflective element (72) on the device body (24); preferably, the mounting step comprising any one of the following: gluing, engaging, or fixing using mechanical fixing means.
PCT/IB2023/061842 2022-11-25 2023-11-23 Crutch, crutch assembly, and revamping method WO2024110918A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IT102022000024390 2022-11-25
IT202200024390 2022-11-25

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2024110918A1 true WO2024110918A1 (en) 2024-05-30

Family

ID=85172975

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IB2023/061842 WO2024110918A1 (en) 2022-11-25 2023-11-23 Crutch, crutch assembly, and revamping method

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Country Link
WO (1) WO2024110918A1 (en)

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2259443A (en) * 1939-04-20 1941-10-21 Frank A Geier Illuminating cane and umbrella handle
WO2000019813A1 (en) * 1998-10-05 2000-04-13 Heath, Richard, John Illuminating fishing rod
CN202085860U (en) * 2011-06-22 2011-12-28 张卫 Torch type walking stick
CN202104343U (en) * 2011-05-30 2012-01-11 王茂盛 Crutch type umbrella handle with lighting and alarming function
DE202015002774U1 (en) * 2015-04-09 2015-04-29 Ingo Schäfer Walker with reflector lighting
TWM592755U (en) * 2019-10-05 2020-04-01 協航實業股份有限公司 Cane

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US2259443A (en) * 1939-04-20 1941-10-21 Frank A Geier Illuminating cane and umbrella handle
WO2000019813A1 (en) * 1998-10-05 2000-04-13 Heath, Richard, John Illuminating fishing rod
CN202104343U (en) * 2011-05-30 2012-01-11 王茂盛 Crutch type umbrella handle with lighting and alarming function
CN202085860U (en) * 2011-06-22 2011-12-28 张卫 Torch type walking stick
DE202015002774U1 (en) * 2015-04-09 2015-04-29 Ingo Schäfer Walker with reflector lighting
TWM592755U (en) * 2019-10-05 2020-04-01 協航實業股份有限公司 Cane

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