Orthopedic technology device for supporting a user's lower back

Abstract

The present invention relates to an orthopedic device for supporting a user's lower back, wherein the orthopedic device has at least one mechanical accumulator (6), a pelvic element (2), an upper body element (48) and a thigh element (4), wherein the mechanical accumulator (6) can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the thigh element (4) is deflected relative to the upper body element (48), wherein the upper body element (48) is arranged on the pelvic element (2) by means of two track elements (14), wherein the track elements (14) are each pivotably arranged on the pelvic element (2) at a first end around at least one first pivot axis (18) and at a second end (20) opposite the first end (16) pivotably arranged on the upper body element (48) around at least one second pivot axis (22).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an orthopedic device for supporting a user's lower back, wherein the orthopedic device has at least one mechanical energy accumulator, a pelvic element, an upper body element, and a thigh element, and wherein the mechanical energy accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the thigh element swings relative to the upper body element. Background Art

[0002] Devices for supporting a user's lower back have long been known from the prior art and are used especially when, for example, heavy objects have to be lifted and carried, to relieve the stress on the lower back. An orthopedic device has been disclosed by US 443113A, which has a leaf spring element, one end of which is fixed in the shoulder region of a person and the other end of which is fixed in the thigh of the person. If the wearer of such an orthopedic device bends down, the leaf spring bends and thus is tensioned. The leaf spring then exerts a force that supports the wearer of the orthopedic device to stand up.

[0003] Another orthopedic device has been disclosed by US 2017 / 0360588 A1. The orthopedic device has a leg support element that has a leg shell for mounting on the front side of the thigh. The support is formed in the form of a chest plate that presses against the chest of the wearer of the device. If these two elements swing relative to each other, the spring device is tensioned, thereby generating a restoring force that should help the wearer of the orthopedic device to stand up.

[0004] WO 2014 / 195373 A1 describes another device with which the wearer of an orthopedic device should be supported in lifting heavy objects. The orthopedic device supports the entire body, including the arms and legs of the wearer.

[0005] However, the disadvantage is that the described orthopedic devices only allow flexion and extension of the user's spine. However, this forward bending (flexion) and straightening again (extension) are not sufficient movement possibilities for all situations, so that the wearers of such orthopedic devices are restricted, thereby limiting the application possibilities of the orthopedic devices and reducing the acceptance of the devices by the users. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The object of the present invention is to overcome or at least alleviate the said disadvantages.

[0007] The present invention solves the posed task by means of an orthopedic technical device, which is characterized in that the upper body element is arranged on the pelvic element by means of two track elements, wherein the track elements are each pivotably arranged on the pelvic element at a first end about at least one first pivot axis and at a second end opposite the first end pivotably arranged on the upper body element about at least one second pivot axis.

[0008] The pelvic element is preferably configured as a pelvic belt or hip belt and thus extends completely around the trunk at the height of the pelvis or hip. A part of the pelvic element extends between the two first ends of the two track elements (which are arranged on the pelvic element), and this part is preferably configured to have a constant length or at least an almost constant length during use of the device. In a simple and thus preferred configuration, the distance between the first end and the second end of the respective track element is also configured to have a constant length or at least an almost constant length during use of the device. The same applies to the distance between the two second ends of the track elements. In this way, a parallelogram is obtained, which is movably formed due to the articulated arrangement of the respective components. In a preferred configuration, it is achieved that the degree of freedom of the user's upper body and in particular the user's spine is not restricted or at least hardly restricted.

[0009] Preferably, at least one of the above parameters is configured to be adjustable. Thus, the respective parameter can be adapted to the body parameters of the user. The parameter is set after being adjusted to the personalized desired value and then fixed, for example locked, in such a way that it remains unchanged or at least almost unchanged during use of the device. Preferably, a plurality, particularly preferably all of the above parameters can be adjusted and locked in this way.

[0010] Particularly preferably, the upper body element is arranged on the pelvic element in such a way that lateral flexion of the spine and rotation of the spine and the axis of rotation in the sagittal plane are possible. In this case, the degree of freedom of movement of the user's spine is not restricted in any way, so that the user of the orthopedic technical device can perform any movement that can be performed by the spine without the orthopedic technical device also with the orthopedic technical device.

[0011] The axis of rotation in the sagittal plane is particularly understood as such a vertical axis of rotation that is in the median plane and thus in the middle sagittal plane when the user is standing upright. It can also be referred to as the longitudinal axis of the spine, wherein the human spine does not have a longitudinal axis in the mathematical sense due to its geometric configuration. It goes without saying that an axis of rotation that moves parallel to this axis is also in the sagittal plane.

[0012] If the degrees of freedom of the user's spine are not restricted by the orthopedic technical device, this is to be understood in particular as follows: Flexion and extension are possible. These movements are also referred to as ventral flexion and dorsal extension or forward bending and backward bending. Flexion is the forward bending of the upper body and thus the spine and the head, while extension is the reverse movement. In addition, in this case, other movements of the upper body and thus the spine, such as lateral flexion and rotation, are not restricted by the orthopedic technical device.

[0013] Preferably, the movements of the spine, in particular the lateral and / or forward and backward tilting of the spine and / or the torsion of the spine about its longitudinal axis, are not impeded, restricted or made impossible by the orthopedic technical device. Preferably, all the movements described here are not restricted by the orthopedic technical device in terms of their maximum movement amplitude and the direction of their movement sequence.

[0014] If the thigh element is deflected relative to the upper body element in a first direction, the mechanical energy accumulator (which can be, for example, an elastic element such as a tension spring) is loaded with energy. This first direction corresponds, for example, to the lifting of the thigh element, for example for climbing stairs. However, preferably, the device is deactivated when climbing stairs, so that no support force is applied when climbing stairs. Also, by the forward bending (flexion) of the upper body, the upper body element is deflected relative to the thigh element accordingly. Thus, the first direction is characterized in that the angle between the thigh element and the upper body element is reduced by this deflection.

[0015] The energy loaded into the mechanical energy accumulator can be, for example, elastic energy or potential energy. In this state, the mechanical energy accumulator preferably exerts a force on the thigh element and / or the upper body element, which force acts in a second direction opposite to the first direction. If the thigh element is deflected relative to the upper body element in this second direction, the mechanical energy accumulator is unloaded and the output energy supports the deflection of the thigh element relative to the upper body element. Thus, the second direction relates, for example, to the lowering of the thigh element or the extension of the leg or the straightening (extension) of the upper body. In all these movements, the thigh element is deflected relative to the upper body element in this second direction.

[0016] If the user of the orthopedic technical device, for example, wants to lift a heavy object, he kneels (or squats) down for this purpose and grabs the object. Here, both thighs and thus the corresponding thigh elements are deflected relative to the upper body and thus relative to the upper body element in a first direction. The angle between the thigh and the upper body is reduced. Thereby, the mechanical energy accumulator is loaded with potential energy. In order to lift the object, the user of the orthopedic technical device now has to extend the legs, wherein the thighs are deflected relative to the upper body in the opposite second direction. Here, the potential energy stored in the mechanical energy accumulator is output and in this way supports the corresponding movement.

[0017] Preferably, the first pivot axis extends at least substantially in the frontal plane, preferably in a common frontal plane. Particularly preferably, the first pivot axis extends through the user's hip joint, such that the first end of the track element is arranged on the outside, i.e. externally. In contrast, the second end of the track element is positioned on the upper body element on the dorsal side, i.e. posteriorly. The track element preferably extends such that the first end is rotated 90° relative to the second end. Here, the track elements are preferably configured and arranged mirror-symmetrically to each other.

[0018] Preferably, the second pivot axis extends at least substantially in the sagittal plane. Here, it particularly preferably extends from the dorsal side to the ventral side, i.e. from the posterior to the anterior. In this way, it is possible to achieve a lateral inclination of the body and the spine without restricting the degrees of freedom.

[0019] In a preferred configuration, the track elements each have at least two sub-tracks, which are pivotably arranged on one another about a third pivot axis. This third pivot axis preferably extends substantially in the sagittal plane here. Particularly preferably, when the user of the orthopedic device is upright, the third pivot axis is substantially parallel to the second pivot axis in the worn state of the orthopedic device. The pivot joints allowing relative movement of the sub-tracks relative to one another are preferably arranged closer to the first end of the respective track element than to the second end. Particularly preferably, the joints are located on the side of the user's body such that the imaginary extension of the third pivot axis passes through the user's body.

[0020] Preferably, the second end of the track element is arranged in the region of the user's scapula in the worn state of the device, particularly preferably in the region of the lower angle of the user's scapula. In this region, the strongest deviation from a straight line occurs when the spine bends to the right or left, such that the joints (which connect the second end to the upper body element in this region) are optimally positioned.

[0021] In a preferred configuration, the second end of the track element is arranged on the upper body element using joints, the distance between which is adjustable. These joints are preferably displaceably arranged on the upper body element. This is achieved, for example, by arranging the respective joints on a slide, which can move along a guide means, such as a slot or a chute, which is arranged in or on the upper body element.

[0022] Preferably, the second end of the track element is arranged on the upper body element by means of ball joints such that they can pivot about two different pivot axes, one of which preferably extends in the dorsal-ventral direction and the other in the medial-lateral direction. The first of the two pivot axes allows the user of the orthopedic device to tilt their upper body to the right and left, while the second of the two pivot axes is required to allow the user to bend their upper body forward or backward.

[0023] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the second end of the track element is arranged on the upper body element by means of a ball joint. Thereby, the degree of freedom of movement is further increased and the acceptance of the orthopedic device by the user is further improved.

[0024] The upper body element preferably surrounds the upper body of the user in the worn state of the orthopedic device. Here, the upper body element is preferably configured to be so shape-stable that the diameter of the upper body element does not decrease or substantially does not decrease in the inner-outer direction when bending the upper body. If energy is to be loaded into the at least one mechanical energy accumulator, the upper body element must be deflected relative to the thigh element. If necessary, the activation device must also be actuated, which can be achieved, for example, by the movement of the upper body element relative to the pelvic element. If the energy accumulator (which has a spring element, for example) is loaded, a force must be applied for this purpose, which can be caused by the bending of the upper body. Thus, in the above embodiment, the upper body exerts a pulling force on the upper body element.

[0025] Preferably, the upper body element has a chest section that abuts against the chest of the user on different sides of the user's sternum at at least two spaced-apart locations in the worn state of the orthopedic device. The force is transmitted from the upper body to the upper body element through these locations. This is of course also possible if the upper body element contacts the user's chest only at a single location or at more than two locations.

[0026] Therefore, in order to load energy into the energy accumulator, a pulling force is exerted on the upper body element through the upper body and thus through the user of the orthopedic device. If the energy accumulator is unloaded, a pulling force is exerted on the upper body through the upper body element, and this pulling force supports the lower back of the user, for example, when standing up. This pulling force is preferably transmitted to the upper body element through the track element and is transmitted from the upper body element to the upper body. Since the track element is arranged on the dorsal side of the user, that is, on the back, the pulling force is transmitted to the dorsal part of the upper body element and is applied from there to the front part of the upper body element. The pulling force is transmitted to the upper body through these locations (where the front part contacts the upper body, that is, preferably on the right and left sides of the user's sternum). Here, sufficient shape stability ensures that no sense of compression is caused to the user's upper body when the pulling force is applied to the dorsal part of the upper body element. If the shape stability is too small, the part of the upper body element that actually passes from the front to the dorsal side through the side of the upper body is transmitted to the upper body like a sling (the pulling force is applied to this sling). Here, a part of the force is transmitted into the force acting on the inner side, which can cause a pain effect.

[0027] The upper body surrounding part of the preferably upper body element is not completely shape-stable, but rather has a slight flexibility and is preferably elastic. This ensures that the orthopedic device and the upper body element are suitable for different persons with different chest circumferences and can be configured to be adjustable in size. Here, if necessary, it is sufficient to connect individual rigid and non-flexible elements to each other in a flexible and preferably elastic manner, that is, for example, to use semi-shells or shell elements that surround the upper body part in a shape-stable and rigid manner. Alternatively, the upper body element can also be configured to be completely without rigid elements.

[0028] In a preferred configuration, the orthopedic device has first and second thigh elements and first and second mechanical accumulators. Here, the first mechanical accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the first thigh element deflects relative to the upper body element. The second mechanical accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the second thigh element deflects relative to the upper body element. With this configuration, the thighs can move independently of each other relative to the upper body element. Only a force is applied to the thigh element deflected relative to the upper body element by the mechanical accumulator.

[0029] Advantageously, each thigh element is swingably arranged on the pelvic element about a joint axis by means of a joint assembly. Preferably, here the joint assembly is positioned such that the joint axis extends through the hip joint of the user.

[0030] Preferably, the thigh element has at least one abutment element for abutting against the thigh and at least one force transmission element that connects the abutment element to the joint assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the force transmission element is a rod or a track and is particularly preferably shaped ergonomically. Preferably, the abutment element is connected to each joint assembly by respectively at least one force transmission element.

[0031] Advantageously, each of the used track elements is swingably arranged on the upper body element about at least two swing axes, wherein at least two of the swing axes preferably are perpendicular to each other.

[0032] Particularly preferably, at least one of the track elements is arranged on the upper body element by means of a ball joint. Preferably, all the track elements are respectively arranged on the upper body element by means of a ball joint.

[0033] Preferably, at least one track element, but particularly preferably each track element, is swingably arranged on the respective joint assembly (which is arranged on the pelvic element) about a movement axis, wherein the movement axis preferably is perpendicular to the joint axis of the respective joint assembly.

[0034] The different movable configurations make it possible to follow the movements of the upper body and in particular the user's spine, and the force applied by the mechanical energy storage device in the loaded state can act independently of the position of the upper body element relative to the pelvic element and / or relative to the at least one thigh element.

[0035] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one of the rail elements is designed to be variable in length. Particularly preferably, all rail elements are variable in length. This allows the orthopedic device to be used for people of different sizes. Preferably, the variable-length rail elements can be fixed in different length settings, so that, while the length is adjustable, it cannot be subsequently changed.

[0036] Advantageously, the mechanical energy accumulator comprises at least one spring element, a pressure accumulator, a pneumatic and / or hydraulic system, and / or a hydraulic accumulator. Elastic elements in the form of elastic cords, for example rubber cords, are also conceivable. Of course, other elements are also conceivable, such as gas pressure springs or compression springs, for which a deflection device is used to convert the compressive force provided by the compression spring into a tensile force.

[0037] The mechanical energy storage device can be arranged at different locations on the device. Advantageously, a location is selected where the required installation space for the energy storage device is available and the energy storage device itself does not interfere with the movement of the user's legs.

[0038] The shoulder element for being worn on the shoulders is particularly suitable for arranging the upper body element on the upper body of the user, and this shoulder element can be constituted in the form of a backpack strap or a trouser belt, for example. It allows a particularly small structural form of the orthopedic device.

[0039] The thigh member preferably has a thigh shell, which is preferably arranged on a spacing element. The spacing element is advantageously connected to the pelvic member as part of the thigh member. The length of the pressure-transmitting element, which is designed, for example, as a rail or rod, and the spacing element, which may also be designed as a rod or rail, is preferably selected to cover the entire angular range of possible movement of the wearer's thigh. The thigh shell is preferably articulated on the spacing element to achieve maximum wearing comfort.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, a passive actuator is provided which exerts a force as a function of the position and / or orientation of the at least one leg support element relative to the pelvic element and / or the upper body element.

[0041] In a preferred configuration, a thigh shell for wearing on the user's thigh is provided on the thigh element, preferably on each thigh element. The thigh shell is preferably configured with pads to achieve as comfortable a wearing sensation as possible. This enables as comprehensive a degree of freedom of movement as possible relative to the remainder of the device, which is particularly advantageous when the user is moving. The thigh shell can be arranged directly on the track element or spacer element of the thigh element by means of a ball bearing. Alternatively, the thigh shell is positioned on a retaining bracket.

[0042] Preferably, the thigh shell is able to swing relative to the thigh element about a rotational axis, preferably against the force of a spring element, wherein preferably the rotational axis extends in the medial-lateral direction. This is particularly simply achieved by positioning the thigh shell on a retaining bracket that is swingably arranged about the rotational axis on another component of the thigh element.

[0043] Preferably, the orthopedic device has an upper body element, a thigh element, and a first passive actuator that is arranged to apply a force to the thigh element and / or the upper body element when the angle enclosed between the thigh element and the upper body element lies within a predefined first angular range. Particularly preferably, the device has at least one second passive actuator that is arranged to apply a force to the thigh element and / or the upper body element when the angle lies within a predefined second angular range that is different from the first angular range.

[0044] By cleverly selecting the first angular range and the second angular range, the device according to the invention can be used, for example, for the two movement processes described above. If the wearer of the orthopedic device, for example, merely bends slightly or works in a bent posture, this preferably corresponds to the first angular range, so that the first passive actuator applies the required force. However, if the wearer of the orthopedic device bends down, for example, to pick up something from the floor, the angle that is thereby created between the thigh element and the upper body element preferably corresponds to the second angular range, so that the second passive actuator applies a force.

[0045] Preferably, the first angular range and the second angular range overlap. In other words, there is an angle between the thigh element and the upper body element at which both passive actuators apply a force.

[0046] Preferably, the first passive actuator and / or the second passive actuator has at least one mechanical energy storage device and / or damper. It can for example be an elastic element, such as a spring element, preferably a tension spring. The first passive actuator and / or the second passive actuator can be configured to transmit a constant force over a corresponding angular range (in which the respective actuator exerts a force). For this purpose, the respective passive actuator has for example a constant force spring. However, alternatively or additionally, the actuator can also be selected such that over the corresponding angular range, instead of exerting a constant force, a force that increases as the angle decreases is exerted. A smaller angle means a stronger bending, so in this case, the deeper the user of the device presses, the greater the force exerted by the respective actuator. In another configuration, the force can also have its maximum value at an angle within the corresponding angular range and decrease at larger and smaller angles.

[0047] Preferably, the first passive actuator and the second passive actuator are configured to be different from each other. In particular, the elastic elements of the two actuators can have different elasticities, in particular different spring constants and / or different damping. Additionally, they can have different lengths, where the length of the elastic element is measured in the relaxed state here.

[0048] Preferably, the first passive actuator and / or the second passive actuator is arranged at at least one point of action on the thigh element and / or the ascending element, and the points of action are respectively adjustable. In this way, the corresponding predetermined angular range in which the respective actuator exerts a force can be adjusted. Additionally, pre-tensioning of the respective passive actuator can be achieved, so that the magnitude of the force to be exerted can also be adjusted.

[0049] In order to be able to exert different forces, it is advantageous here that the first passive actuator and the second passive actuator are arranged at different points of action on the thigh element and / or the upper body element and / or have different lengths. In this way, it can be easily seen, especially when assembling the device, which actuator exerts a force in which angular range and / or which actuator exerts a greater or smaller force. It goes without saying that it is also possible that the two actuators act on the same point of action or two actuators with the same length are used. This is possible for example when the two actuators have different spring constants and / or elasticities.

[0050] In a preferred configuration, the upper body element has a first force transmission element and the thigh element has a second force transmission element. These two force transmission elements can cooperate with and disengage from each other. The first mechanical accumulator and the second mechanical accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that when the first force transmission element cooperates with the second force transmission element, the thigh element deflects relative to the upper body element. Otherwise, the thigh element and the upper body element deflect relative to each other without either of the two mechanical accumulators being loaded with energy. With this configuration, it is possible for the thigh element to deflect relative to the upper body element without the corresponding accumulator being loaded with energy. Thus, in this state, no force is exerted by the accumulator, i.e., the corresponding passive actuator. This is advantageous for certain movement sequences. If the user of the device, for example, climbs stairs, he must lift his thigh and thus also the thigh element arranged on the thigh. In other words, he must deflect the thigh element relative to the upper body element respectively. Although the two force transmission elements cooperate with each other in this state, the mechanical accumulator will be loaded when the thigh element is lifted and unloaded again when the leg reaches the upper step of the stairs. However, if the device does not provide support when climbing stairs, it makes sense to disengage the two force transmission elements during this movement.

[0051] In many cases, the support selected by this orthopedic device should only be present when lifting or standing up from a squatting position. To ensure this, it must be ensured that the two force transmission elements only cooperate with each other in these states. This is achieved, for example, by having a pelvic element and causing the two force transmission elements to cooperate with each other once the angle between the pelvic element or a component of the pelvic element and the upper body element exceeds a predetermined limit angle.

[0052] Therefore, preferably, the device has a pelvic element, wherein the upper body element is arranged to be movable relative to the pelvic element. The first force transmission element and the second force transmission element cooperate with and disengage from each other in such a way that the upper body element moves relative to the pelvic element. If the angle between the pelvic element and the upper body element is below a predetermined limit angle, the two force transmission elements cooperate with each other. Then, if this angle exceeds the predetermined limit angle, these force transmission elements disengage from each other again.

[0053] In a preferred configuration, the first passive actuator and the second passive actuator are arranged on respective force introduction levers at respective force introduction points. It is preferably positioned on the pelvic element or the upper body element. The two passive actuators preferably act on the thigh element in these configurations, i.e., one of its ends is arranged on the thigh element and the other end is arranged on the respective force introduction lever. If the two force transmission elements are disengaged, the force introduction lever can deflect freely relative to the pelvic element. If the thigh element deflects relative to the pelvic element and thus also relative to the upper body element in this state, the force introduction lever follows this deflection, so that the passive actuator and the mechanical energy storage preferably included in the passive actuator are not loaded with energy. Thereby, no force is generated and no support is generated.

[0054] However, if the two force transmission elements are engaged with each other, the force introduction lever is positioned on the pelvic element without relative rotation and can no longer follow the swinging movement of the thigh element. Therefore, the distance between the force introduction point on the force introduction lever on the one hand and the action point on the thigh element on the other hand increases during this movement, so that the mechanical energy storage is loaded with mechanical energy and a support force is exerted.

[0055] Preferably, the orientation and / or the positioning of the two force introduction levers relative to each other and / or at least one of the two force introduction points, but preferably both force introduction points, are adjustable. By the movement of the two force introduction levers relative to each other, such as deflection, the following angular range can be adjusted: within this angular range, the respective passive actuator exerts a force. By moving the force introduction point on the force introduction lever, for example, in the direction towards or away from the swinging axis of the thigh element relative to the pelvic element, the intensity of the force to be exerted can be adjusted. By other adjustments of the force introduction point on the force introduction lever, for example, in the circumferential direction relative to the above-mentioned swinging axis, preloading of the respective passive actuator can also be achieved.

[0056] Preferably, the preloading of the first passive actuator and / or the preloading of the second passive actuator are adjustable.

[0057] Preferably, the force exerted by the first actuator and / or the force exerted by the second actuator depends on the angle, in particular in a curve form, particularly preferably in a sine form.

[0058] Preferably, the force exerted by the first actuator and / or the force exerted by the second actuator has a maximum value at different angles.

[0059] Preferably, the force exerted by the respective actuator is zero, or substantially zero, at an angle smaller than the respective pre-determined angular range. Here, the more strongly the upper body is bent relative to the thigh, the smaller this angle is.

[0060] Preferably, the first passive actuator and the second passive actuator act on a force introduction rod respectively. The two force introduction rods are preferably configured to be adjustable in length here, so that the magnitude of the torque applied by the corresponding actuator or the strength of the corresponding force can be adjusted. Additionally or alternatively thereto, the force introduction rods are configured in a reasonable manner relative to each other and / or relative to the pelvic element, so that the position of a predetermined first angular range and / or the position of a predetermined second angular range can be adjusted. When the upper body element bends relative to the thigh element, the corresponding actuator (which can be a spring element, for example) is loaded with mechanical energy and thus can apply a force. Here, the distance between the first end and the second end of the corresponding actuator becomes larger.

[0061] Preferably, the device has a stop, which can be arranged on the pelvic element, for example, and when the corresponding force introduction rod has reached a certain position, especially relative to the thigh element, the first passive actuator and / or the second passive actuator abuts against the stop. What is achieved hereby is that the corresponding actuator is still tensioned and loaded with mechanical energy, but it preferably acts directly on the axis of rotation between the upper body element and the thigh element, provided that the stop is arranged on this axis of rotation. Thus, although a force is applied, this force no longer causes a torque and thus no longer causes support of the back.

[0062] The orthopedic device preferably has a joint, which has a first joint element and a second joint element that is deflectable relative to the first joint element. The first joint element has a first joint arm with a first form-fitting element, and the second joint element has a second joint arm, a force-acting lever with a second form-fitting element, and a mechanical energy accumulator, which is arranged between the force-acting lever and the second joint arm. The mechanical energy accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that when the first form-fitting element mates with the second form-fitting element, the first joint arm deflects relative to the second joint arm. Preferably, the device has a locking device, by means of which it is ensured that the two form-fitting elements can mate with each other regardless of the position between the first form-fitting element and the second mating element in such a way that the force exerted by the loaded mechanical energy accumulator is transmitted from the second form-fitting element to the first form-fitting element. What is ensured hereby is that uncontrolled energy output is prevented when these form-fitting elements slip relative to each other.

[0063] Preferably, the form-fitting elements are the force transmission elements that have been described. The first joint element and the second joint element are preferably assigned to the upper body element and the thigh element, or vice versa.

[0064] The form-fitting elements have recesses and / or protrusions, which are configured in such a way that the two form-fitting elements can mate with each other in a form-fitting manner. Preferably, it relates to gears, and particularly preferably to face gears.

[0065] In principle, different mechanisms can be considered, and the safety device utilizes such a mechanism to solve the posed task. Preferably, the safety device is arranged to cause two form-fitting elements to rotate relative to each other when or after they are engaged. If these form-fitting elements are already positioned relative to each other at the moment of engagement such that the protrusions and / or recesses of the two form-fitting elements do not engage completely but only in small areas, then the relative position can be changed by rotating the two form-fitting elements relative to each other, and thus a complete or at least greater engagement can be ensured.

[0066] Preferably, the first form-fitting element and the second form-fitting element have protrusions and / or recesses on the end sides. This is given, for example, in the case of face gears. Here, a face gear should be understood as a gear whose teeth project in the axial direction. In a conventional gear, the teeth are arranged on the outer circumference of the gear and project in the radial direction. The gear has a rotation axis around which the gear is rotatably supported, and the axial and radial directions are understood in relation to this concept. In contrast, in a face gear, the teeth are on the end face of the gear and thus project in the axial direction. If two face gears are engaged with each other, preferably all the teeth of one gear engage with the teeth of the other gear, so that the contact area is significantly larger than in the case of a conventional gear whose teeth are arranged on the outer circumference. Thereby, greater forces can be transmitted.

[0067] Therefore, if two face gears are engaged with each other and their teeth are not optimally positioned relative to each other, this can be corrected by rotating the two gears relative to each other. Here, the required rotation is preferably small, especially less than 5°, preferably less than 3°, and particularly preferably less than 2°. The same applies in the case of form-fitting elements that do not have teeth but other recesses and / or protrusions.

[0068] Particularly preferably, the safety device has a guide shaft that projects axially from one of the form-fitting elements and has end-side recesses and / or protrusions, especially face teeth, which are arranged to interact with the corresponding other form-fitting element.

[0069] Advantageously, the guide shaft can be moved in the axial direction relative to the form-fitting element from which the guide shaft projects axially, wherein the guide shaft is configured such that it rotates about its longitudinal axis during axial movement, thereby applying a torque to the form-fitting element that interacts with the end-side projections and / or recesses of the guide shaft. In this configuration, when the two form-fitting elements are not mated with each other, the guide shaft projects axially from the end face of one of the two form-fitting elements. If the two form-fitting elements are now to be mated, one of the two form-fitting elements, preferably the one from which the guide shaft does not project, moves towards the corresponding other form-fitting element. Here, first, the end-side projections and / or recesses, in particular the end-face teeth of the guide shaft, come into contact with the end-side recesses and / or projections of the other form-fitting element. However, this does not stop the other form-fitting element from moving towards the form-fitting element provided with the guide shaft, but rather the guide shaft moves in the axial direction and moves into the form-fitting element in which it is provided.

[0070] Preferably, when the guide shaft has moved into its gear to such an extent that a single coherent end face is formed, the end-side projections and / or recesses of the guide shaft, in particular the end-face teeth, form a coherent tooth with the end-side recesses and / or projections, in particular the end-face teeth, of its form-fitting element.

[0071] If the projections and / or recesses of the other form-fitting element moving towards the guide shaft do not fit optimally into its projections and / or recesses, a torque is applied to the form-fitting element by the guide shaft, causing it to rotate into the optimal position in order to fit into the recesses and / or projections of the other form-fitting element. Here, the optimal position is reached when the guide shaft is fully sunk into its form-fitting element. In this way, it is ensured that the projections and / or recesses of the two form-fitting elements fit together in the optimal position, regardless of the position of the two form-fitting elements relative to each other when they are to be mated with each other.

[0072] Alternatively or additionally, the first form - fitting element and / or the second form - fitting element has at least two sub - form - fitting elements, for example at least two sub - gears, which can move independently of one another in the axial direction. If the two form - fitting elements move towards each other in this configuration to cooperate with each other, then one of the two sub - form - fitting elements of one form - fitting element engages in the projection and / or recess of the other form - fitting element before the other sub - form - fitting elements do so. The sub - form - fitting elements are preferably arranged offset from one another in the circumferential direction such that the projections and / or recesses, in particular the teeth, of each individual sub - form - fitting element are equidistant from one another, but there is still an angular offset between the projections and / or recesses, in particular the teeth, of adjacent sub - form - fitting elements. In this way, it is ensured that when the two form - fitting elements are brought into cooperation with each other, the projections and / or recesses of different sub - form - fitting elements can cooperate better or worse to different degrees with the projections and / or recesses of the corresponding other form - fitting element.

[0073] Thus, if the projection and / or recess of the first sub - form - fitting element cooperates optimally with the projection and / or recess of the other form - fitting element, it is sufficient to transmit the force to be applied. However, if this is not the case, because the projection and / or recess of the first sub - form - fitting element only engages with the recess and / or projection of the other form - fitting element, for example, only in the tip region, then the projection and / or recess of one of the other sub - form - fitting elements engages better into the other form - fitting element. If the contact between the tip of the projection and / or recess of the first sub - form - fitting element and the tip of the projection and / or recess of the other form - fitting element is not sufficient to reliably transmit the occurring force, then "slipping" of the two form - fitting elements results. However, this is already captured after a relative movement of a few degrees by the projection and / or recess of one of the other sub - form - fitting elements, which engage better into the projection and / or recess of the other form - fitting element due to the angular offset between the projections and / or recesses of different sub - form - fitting elements.

[0074] Therefore, preferably, the at least two sub - form - fitting elements have the same projections and / or recesses, in particular the same number (or tooth profile), but they are offset from one another in the circumferential direction. Preferably, the offset is less than 10°, preferably less than 7°, particularly preferably less than 5°. In this context, the same tooth profile means that the teeth have the same depth, the same flank profile and the same angular offset from one another.

[0075] In a preferred configuration, when the first form - fitting element and the second form - fitting element are not in cooperation with each other, the at least two sub - form - fitting elements are spaced apart from one another in the axial direction. In this way, it is ensured which of the at least two sub - form - fitting elements is the first sub - form - fitting element that comes into contact with the other form - fitting element.

[0076] Here, a sub-shape mating element is shaped like a cake piece. It preferably has two straight edges and one rounded edge. It preferably relates to an arc segment. Preferably, teeth in the shape of arc segments are also located on the end face.

[0077] Preferably, a first joint element is assigned to the upper body element and a second joint element is assigned to the thigh element. In addition, the device has a pelvic element, wherein two form-fitting elements can cooperate with and disengage from each other in such a way that the upper body element moves relative to the pelvic element. This configuration of the invention is based on the knowledge that when the angle between the upper body element (which is, for example, arranged in the chest area or back area of the wearer's upper body) and the wearer's thigh is below a predetermined angle, i.e., when the two body parts are deflected relative to each other, the lower back does not always need support. On the contrary, support is only required when it causes a deflection between the wearer's upper body, i.e., for example, the thoracic cavity, and the wearer's pelvis. By configuring the device in this way, it is achieved that a support force is always applied when there is a deflection between the wearer's upper body and the pelvis. On the contrary, if the upper body is deflected relative to the thigh and the upper body does not move relative to the pelvis, no force should be applied. In this case, the two gears do not cooperate with each other.

[0078] Preferably, at least two magnets are arranged on the pelvic element or the thigh element or at least one magnet is arranged on a corresponding other element in such a way that they exert a force on each other, and when the angle passes through a predetermined limit angle during the movement of the upper body element relative to the pelvic element, the direction of this force changes. Thus, in this configuration, the mobile device has the above-mentioned magnets. On the element provided with at least two magnets on the upper body element or the pelvic element, these magnets are preferably arranged in different orientations. This means that the north pole of at least one of the magnets and the south pole of at least another of the magnets point towards the corresponding other element of the orthopedic device.

[0079] If the angle between the upper body element and the pelvic element is greater than a predetermined angle, then the two form-fitting elements do not cooperate with each other. Therefore, preferably, a force is applied by the magnets that keeps the two form-fitting elements separated from each other. This can be achieved by the magnets exerting a force on each other. This can be, for example, a repulsive force. This is achieved by positioning the magnets of the pelvic element and the thigh element close to each other such that their like poles, i.e., the corresponding south poles or the corresponding north poles, point towards each other. If now the pelvic element moves relative to the thigh element, the magnets arranged on the corresponding elements also move. This will cause the moving magnets to move towards each other. At the moment when the upper body element has passed through a predetermined limit angle relative to the pelvic element, preferably, a second magnet of the pelvic element or the thigh element enters the region of at least one magnet of the corresponding other element. Here, an attractive force will now be caused because the different poles of the two magnets point towards each other.

[0080] Preferably, at least some, and particularly preferably all, of the projections and / or recesses of one of the form-fitting elements, and preferably of both form-fitting elements, have undercuts for engagement. This means that, preferably, the two sides of a recess and / or a projection are inclined in the same direction. Thereby, a torque can be applied to one of the form-fitting elements solely by the force transmitted, which torque is converted into a force having an axial component. Thereby, the two form-fitting elements are pulled closer together, so that the strength of the engagement, i.e., the mutual cooperation of the two form-fitting elements, is increased.

[0081] Preferably, the form-fitting elements are capable of cooperating with each other in such a way that one of these form-fitting elements moves towards another form-fitting element which is rotatably supported in one direction relative to the component on which it is provided. Here, a floating support is preferably involved, which floating support allows a slight rotation, for example less than 15°, preferably less than 10°, particularly preferably less than 5°, and thereby ensures that the two form-fitting elements can achieve an optimal position and orientation relative to each other. Description of the Drawings

[0082] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings:

[0083] Figure 1 and 3 show a side view and a rear view of a part of an orthopedic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention,

[0084] Figure 2 and 4 show Figure 1 and 3 an enlarged view of a part in

[0085] Figures 5 to 7 show an orthopedic device according to an embodiment of the present invention in a worn state,

[0086] Figure 8 show a schematic diagram of different force curves as a function of the angle between a thigh element and an upper body element. Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0087] Figure 1A side view showing a part of an orthopedic technology device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The orthopedic technology device has a pelvic element 2, a thigh element 4, and a mechanical energy accumulator 6. The mechanical energy accumulator 6 has a first passive actuator 8 and a second passive actuator 10, which are connected to the pelvic element 2 without relative rotation through two force introduction rods 12. There is a track element 14 on the pelvic element 2. A first end 16 of the track element is swingably arranged on the pelvic element 2 around a first swing axis 18. In the shown embodiment, the first swing axis 18 extends perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. A second end 20 is swingably arranged on an upper body element (not shown) around a second swing axis 22. The length of the track element 14 can be adjusted by an adjusting device 24 configured as a clamping device in the shown embodiment. For this purpose, in the shown embodiment, once the adjusting device 24 is loosened, two sub-elements 26 move relative to each other. Subsequently, the adjusting device is locked again and the track element 14 is used in the changed length.

[0088] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 An enlarged detail in. The thigh element 4 has a thigh shell 28, which is arranged on a spacer element 30. A joint assembly 32 allows the thigh element 4 to deflect relative to the pelvic element 2. The joint assembly 32 can preferably be brought into a passive position and an active position. In the passive position, the force introduction rod 12 can move relative to the rest of the pelvic element 2. If the thigh element 4 deflects relative to the pelvic element 2 in this state, a force is applied to the force introduction rod 12 by the first passive actuator 8 and the second passive actuator 10, and this force causes the force introduction rod 12 to deflect with the thigh element 4. In the active state of the joint assembly 32, the force introduction rod 12 is connected to the pelvic element 2 without relative rotation. Therefore, when the thigh element moves relative to the pelvic element 2, the force introduction rod 12 cannot deflect with the thigh element 4. Therefore, the passive actuators 8, 10 are tensioned. Due to the different force introduction rods 12 and the different lengths of the two passive actuators 8, 10, these actuators contain different forces at different angular positions.

[0089] Figure 3 Shows in a rear view Figure 1 The orthopedic technology device in. The thigh element 4 with the first passive actuator 8 and the second passive actuator 10, the joint assembly 32, and the track element 14 can be seen. The track element 14 has two sub-tracks 34, which are connected to a third swing axis 38 through a joint 36.

[0090] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3The enlarged detail in []. The thigh shell 28 is pivotably positioned on the spacer element 30 in at least one direction by the positioning device 40. Thus, the optimal position of the thigh shell 28 relative to the user's thigh can be selected. In the illustrated embodiment, the joint device 32 is in the passive position. The first force transmission element 42 and the second force transmission element 44 can be seen, and they do not cooperate with each other in the illustrated position. Therefore, the force introduction rod 12 is not connected to the pelvis element 2 without relative rotation.

[0091] Figures 5 to 7 An orthopedic device in a worn state is shown. Figure 5 A side view of the user is shown. The thigh element 4, the pelvis element 2, and especially the track element 14 can be seen. At the second end 20, the track element is arranged on the upper body element 48 by means of a ball joint 46.

[0092] Figure 6 The orthopedic device in a worn state is shown in a rear view. The two track elements 14 extend from their second ends 20 to the pelvis element 2 from the upper body element 48, and the first end 16 is provided on the pelvis element. It can be seen that the second end 20 is arranged on the upper body element 48 dorsally, that is, on the back, while the first end 16 is arranged on the pelvis element 2 laterally, that is, on the side.

[0093] Figure 7 A case with a right-tilted spine is shown. The upper body element 48 is slightly moved relative to the upper body, which is achieved by two straps 50 (which can also be called shoulder straps). At the same time, the track element 14 is deflected relative to the pelvis element 2 and thus allows a greater degree of freedom of movement. Both the upper body element 48 and the pelvis element 2 (to which the pelvic strap 52 belongs) are adjustable in their lengths and can thus be used for different individuals.

[0094] Figure 8Shows different force curves of the forces applied by the first actuator 8 and the second actuator 10, which can also be interpreted as torque curves, as a function of the angle between the thigh element 4 and the upper body element 48. The solid line 54 does not start at the origin of this coordinate system. Thus, if the angle is greater than a predetermined angular range, the applied force is also not zero outside the predetermined first angular range. If the person is standing upright, this angle is, for example, greater. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, the first passive actuator 8 is pre-tensioned and applies a force. This force increases as the bending angle (i.e., the small angle between the thigh element 4 and the upper body element 48) increases until it reaches a first maximum value. When further bending occurs, i.e., when this angle further decreases, the force decreases again until the force rises again at point P. In this region, a predetermined second angular range begins in such a way that the second passive actuator 10 applies a force. This force first increases until the solid line 54 reaches its global maximum value. At this bending angle, not only the first passive actuator 8 but also the second passive actuator 10 apply a force. When further bending occurs, the force decreases until finally no force is applied anymore.

[0095] The dashed curve 56 shows a similar situation. The difference from the solid line 54 is that the angle between the two force introduction rods 12 becomes smaller. This is achieved, for example, by the fact that the force introduction rod 12 (on which the second passive actuator 10 acts) moves counterclockwise relative to the second force introduction rod 12 (on which the first passive actuator 8 acts) in Figure 1 and 2 . It can be seen that point P moves to the left. Thus, the second passive actuator 10 applies a force at a smaller bending angle (i.e., a larger angle between the thigh element 4 and the upper body element 48).

[0096] The dash-dotted curve 58 shows another situation. Compared to the solid line 54, the relative positions of the two force introduction rods 12 remain unchanged. Instead, the two force introduction rods 12 are extended, whereby the forces applied by the first passive actuator 8 and the second passive actuator 10 become larger because the lever arms are extended.

[0097] The dot-dash-dotted curve 60 shows the situation where not only the first passive actuator 8 but also the second passive actuator 10 apply their forces over the entire range.

[0098] The dotted line 62 corresponds to a parallel shift of the solid line 54. Thus, the first passive actuator 8 is used without pre-tensioning.

[0099] List of reference numerals

[0100] 2 Pelvic element

[0101] 4 Thigh element

[0102] 6 Mechanical accumulator

[0103] 8 First passive actuator

[0104] 10 Second passive actuator

[0105] 12 Force introduction rod

[0106] 14 Track element

[0107] 16 First end

[0108] 18 First swing axis

[0109] 20 Second end

[0110] 22 Second swing axis

[0111] 24 Adjustment device

[0112] 26 Sub-component

[0113] 28 Thigh shell

[0114] 30 Spacer element

[0115] 32 Joint assembly

[0116] 34 Sub-track

[0117] 36 Joint

[0118] 38 Third swing axis

[0119] 40 Positioning device

[0120] 42 First force introduction element

[0121] 44 Second force introduction element

[0122] 46 Ball joint

[0123] 48 Upper body element

[0124] 50 Belt

[0125] 52 Pelvic belt

[0126] 54 Solid line

[0127] 56 Dashed curve

[0128] 58 Dashed-dotted line

[0129] 60 Double-dashed-dotted line

[0130] 62 Dotted line.

Claims

1. An orthopedic technology device for supporting a user's lower back, wherein, The orthopedic technology device has: - at least one mechanical energy accumulator (6), - a pelvic element (2), - an upper body element (48), and - a thigh element (4), wherein the mechanical energy accumulator (6) can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the thigh element (4) is deflected relative to the upper body element (48), and the upper body element (48) is arranged on the pelvic element (2) by means of two track elements (14), wherein the track elements (14) are each pivotably arranged on the pelvic element (2) at a first end (16) about at least one first pivot axis (18) and at a second end (20) opposite the first end (16) pivotably arranged on the upper body element (48) about at least one second pivot axis (22), characterized in that the first pivot axis (18) extends through the user's hip joint, so that the first end (16) of the track element (14) is arranged on the outside, and the second end (20) of the track element (14) is arranged in the region of the user's scapula in the worn state of the device, wherein the second pivot axis (22) extends at least substantially in the sagittal plane, i.e., from the rear to the front of the user.

2. The orthopedic technology device according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the track elements (14) has at least two sub-tracks (34) which are pivotably arranged on one another about a third pivot axis (38), wherein the third pivot axis (38) extends at least substantially in the sagittal plane.

3. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second end (20) of the track element (14) is arranged in the region of the lower corner of the user's scapula in the worn state of the device.

4. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second end (20) of the track element (14) is arranged on the upper body element (48) by means of joints, the distance between which is adjustable.

5. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The second end (20) is arranged on the upper body element (48) by means of a ball joint (46).

6. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The upper body element (48) encloses the user's upper body in the worn state of the orthopedic technology device and is shaped in such a stable manner that the diameter of the upper body element (48) does not decrease or substantially does not decrease in the medial-lateral direction and / or in the dorsal-ventral direction when the upper body is bent.

7. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 5, characterized in that, The upper body element (48) has a chest section which, in the worn state of the orthopedic technology device, abuts against the user's chest on different sides of the user's sternum at at least two mutually spaced locations.

8. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The orthopedic technology device has a first and a second thigh element and at least one first and at least one second mechanical energy accumulator, wherein the first mechanical energy accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the first thigh element is deflected relative to the upper body element (48), and the second mechanical energy accumulator can be loaded and unloaded in such a way that the second thigh element is deflected relative to the upper body element (48).

9. The orthopedic technology device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each thigh element (4) is pivotably arranged on the pelvic element (2) by means of a joint assembly (32) about a joint axis.

10. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each track element (14) is pivotably arranged on the upper body element (48) about at least two pivot axes (18, 22, 38).

11. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least one track element (14) is arranged on the upper body element (48) by means of a ball joint (46).

12. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, At least one track element (14) is configured to be variable in length.

13. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, A thigh shell (28) is arranged on the thigh element (4) for wearing on the thigh by means of a ball joint (46).

14. The orthopedic technology device according to claim 13, characterized in that, The thigh shell (28) is able to swing relative to the thigh element (4) about a rotation axis.

15. The orthopedic technology device according to claim 10, characterized in that, At least two of the swing axes (18, 22, 38) are perpendicular to each other.

16. The orthopedic technical device according to claim 14, characterized in that, The thigh shell (28) is able to swing relative to the thigh element (4) about a rotation axis against the force of a spring element.

17. The orthopedic technology device according to claim 14, characterized in that, This rotation axis extends in the medial-lateral direction.

Images