Device for mobilizing the human bone-tendon system

Abstract

A device (100) for mobilizing the human bone-tendon system, the device comprising: - a knee protector (2) arranged to cover a knee (3) of a human user to hold said knee in said knee protector and to exert a mobilization force on the knee covered by said knee protector, said mobilization force exerting pressure on said knee and directing towards a load bearing surface (5) arranged to support the pelvis of the user, and - means (6) for increasing the mobilization force.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a device for mobilizing the human musculoskeletal system.

[0002] More specifically, but not limitingly, the field of the invention is devices for treating or diagnosing piriformis syndrome. Background Technology

[0003] Piriformis syndrome is usually the result of sciatic nerve compression or piriformis muscle irritation of the sciatic nerve, which causes hip pain and sometimes sciatica.

[0004] Piriformis syndrome is common and affects multiple populations: athletes, especially high-level athletes, pregnant women or overweight people, and the last group of people with different characteristics and activity levels, particularly certain occupational categories that are at risk due to their work posture.

[0005] To alleviate or treat piriformis syndrome, the following may be considered:

[0006] - Specific exercises for stretching the hips, and / or

[0007] - Surgery, and / or

[0008] - Corticosteroid injections.

[0009] Different manipulations are known that can be used to diagnose piriformis syndrome and / or stretch the piriformis muscle and / or relieve the musculoskeletal system associated with piriformis syndrome, such as the "FAIR" method. This involves flexing the leg at the hip, then adducting it, and finally internally rotating it. The purpose of this series of movements is to stretch the piriformis muscle in a certain way, which usually results in pain feedback in patients with piriformis syndrome.

[0010] Solutions that make it easier to perform the above procedures are known, such as Piri. This solution allows the knee (and leg) to be moved via a handle attached to the knee (and leg).

[0011] The object of this invention is to provide a device that enables, preferably in a manner suitable for piriformis syndrome, to mobilize the musculoskeletal system of a person, the device being:

[0012] - Significantly improves symptoms, especially pain, and / or

[0013] - Improve the control and / or repeatability of force applied to the musculoskeletal system, and / or

[0014] - Improves the control and / or repeatability of movement experienced by the musculoskeletal system, and / or

[0015] - By limiting the effort required, it makes the activities of professionals easier, and / or

[0016] - Enables direct personal use without the need for professional intervention. Summary of the Invention

[0017] This objective is achieved through a device for mobilizing the human musculoskeletal system, the device comprising:

[0018] - A knee brace (i.e., at least one knee brace, but preferably a single knee brace), configured to cover the human user's knee to hold the knee in place, and configured to apply a modulating force to the knee covered by the knee brace.

[0019] *This adjustment force applies pressure to the knee and directs it toward a support surface designed to support the user's pelvis, and

[0020] *This adjustment force is directed from the knee pad to the load-bearing surface.

[0021] - A device used to increase the mobilization force.

[0022] The direction of the mobilizing force is preferably contained in the plane in which the mobilizing force is applied.

[0023] The device according to the invention preferably further includes a means for limiting the relative movement of the knee brace relative to the bearing surface, according to the limited stroke, during the increase of the adjustment force by means of increasing the adjustment force.

[0024] The device configured to limit the relative movement of the knee with respect to the bearing surface is preferably configured to keep the position of the plane to which the adjusting force is applied fixed during the increase of the adjusting force.

[0025] The device configured to limit the relative movement of the knee with respect to the bearing surface can be configured to keep the direction of the adjusting force fixed during the increase of the adjusting force.

[0026] Devices for increasing the mobilization force may include:

[0027] - A gripping element attached to the knee brace, which the user can manually pull when the user's pelvis is on the bearing surface, and / or

[0028] - A restoring mechanism, such as a spring, which applies a restoring force from the knee brace to the bearing surface, and a means for compensating for this restoring force, and / or

[0029] - A step, attached to the knee pad, is designed to receive the professional's foot, separate from the user's, to increase mobilization force by amplifying the force applied by the professional on the step, and / or

[0030] - A support platform (which forms a lever arm, actuated, for example, by the hand, foot, knee, or hip of a professional, or by a motor or by a user through adjusting their hand or their foot, which belongs to the knee not attached to the knee brace), the support platform being configured to apply adjusting force to the knee attached to the knee brace or support surface through the traction of the knee brace, and / or

[0031] - A weight attached to the knee brace, and preferably a sliding surface configured to guide the weight and knee brace downwards against the user's knee by gravity, and / or

[0032] - A receiving surface attached to the knee brace and forming a corner with the bearing surface, and a device for adjusting the distance between the knee brace and the corner, and / or

[0033] - A device for increasing the volume of a joint disposed inside a knee brace and positioned between the knee brace and the kneecap, and / or

[0034] - A device for increasing the volume of a joint that is disposed on a bearing surface and arranged between the bearing surface and the pelvis.

[0035] The device for increasing the adjustment force can be configured to increase the adjustment force while reducing the distance between the knee brace and the bearing surface.

[0036] The device for increasing the adjustment force can be configured to increase the adjustment force while increasing the distance between the knee brace and the plane tangent to the bearing surface.

[0037] The device according to the invention may include at least one linking element, which will:

[0038] - Knee pads or components attached to knee pads

[0039] - Components that are connected to or attached to the bearing surface.

[0040] The at least one linking element may include at least one strip or rod.

[0041] The device according to the invention may include at least one recovery device that is elastic (in tension and / or in compression) along the at least one linking element, the recovery device having a given stiffness along the mechanical connection that connects the knee brace to the load-bearing surface.

[0042] The device according to the invention may include means for replacing at least one of the recovery devices from different recovery devices with different stiffnesses and / or means for changing the stiffness of the at least one recovery device.

[0043] The device according to the invention includes a pivot pin for a knee brace on a bearing surface or on an element attached to the bearing surface, the at least one linking element connecting the pivot pin to the knee brace and configured to pivot about the pivot pin, such that the knee brace pivots about the pivot pin.

[0044] The device according to the invention may include a marker or stop configured to position the user’s pelvic offset relative to a pivot pin.

[0045] The device for increasing the adjusting force can be configured to increase the adjusting force by pivoting the knee brace around a pivot pin, such that the pivot pin of the knee brace is offset relative to the pivot point of the knee relative to the pelvis.

[0046] The at least one linking element may include a non-extendable and / or incompressible rod attached to the knee brace, and the means for increasing the adjustment force is configured to increase the adjustment force by pivoting the non-extendable and / or incompressible rod about a pivot pin.

[0047] The at least one linking element may include two strips connecting the two sides of the knee brace to two anchor points set along a pivot pin, and the means for increasing the adjustment force is configured to increase the adjustment force by pivoting the strips around the pivot pin.

[0048] The device according to the invention includes means configured to change the lever arm applied to the knee brace during rotation of the knee brace about a pivot pin.

[0049] The device for increasing the mobilization force includes a device for shortening the at least one link element.

[0050] The bearing surface is preferably formed as part of the device according to the invention and includes:

[0051] - Chair (for the user's pelvis), and / or backrest (for the user's back), and / or

[0052] - The backrest of a chair or armchair, and / or

[0053] -Therapy or massage table, and / or

[0054] - Beds and / or overall resting surfaces for the body.

[0055] Knee braces may include:

[0056] -A central area designed to contact the patella of the knee and a peripheral area designed to surround the patella of the knee, the peripheral area having greater stiffness than the central area, or

[0057] - Designed for the empty central area located at the patella of the knee and the peripheral area designed for the patella surrounding the knee.

[0058] The knee brace forms part of a set of two attached knee braces.

[0059] The device according to the invention may include a system for measuring the value of the regulating force.

[0060] The device according to the invention may include an information device (via a display or sound, etc.) that informs the user of the value of the adjusted force.

[0061] The device according to the invention may include means for limiting the applied regulating force, especially for the purpose of making its use safe.

[0062] The knee brace and / or load-bearing surface may include at least one recovery device that is elastic (in extension and / or in compression), the recovery device having a given stiffness, the recovery device being configured to influence the modulating force applied to the knee brace toward the load-bearing surface.

[0063] Description of the Drawings and Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0064] Other advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the non-selective embodiments and implementations, and from the accompanying drawings:

[0065] [ Figure 1 ] Figure 1 This is a schematic side view of a first embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

[0066] [ Figure 2 ] Figure 2 This is a schematic side view of a second embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0067] [ Figure 3 ] Figure 3 This is a schematic side view of a third embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0068] [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 These are different schematic diagrams a) (front view) and b) (side view) of the fourth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0069] [ Figure 5 ] Figure 5 This is a schematic side view of the fifth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0070] [ Figure 6 ] Figure 6 This is a schematic side view of a sixth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0071] [ Figure 7 ] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view of the seventh embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0072] [ Figure 8 ] Figure 8 This is a schematic side view of the eighth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0073] [ Figure 9 ] Figure 9 This is a schematic side view of the ninth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0074] [ Figure 10 ] Figure 10 These are different schematic diagrams a) and b) of the tenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0075] [ Figure 11 ] Figure 11 These are different schematic diagrams a) and b) of the eleventh embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0076] [ Figure 12 ] Figure 12 These are different schematic diagrams a) and b) of the twelfth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0077] [ Figure 13 ] Figure 13 Including different schematic side views a) and b) of a thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention, which is a preferred embodiment of the present invention,

[0078] [ Figure 14 ] Figure 14 This is a perspective view of the thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0079] [ Figure 15 ] Figure 15 This is a schematic side view of a variation of the thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0080] [ Figure 16 ] Figure 16 This is a perspective view of a variant of the thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0081] [ Figure 17 ] Figure 17 Including different schematic side views a), b), c) and d) of a variant of the thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the invention,

[0082] [ Figure 18 ] Figure 18 Different schematic side views a), b) and c) of a variation of the thirteenth embodiment of the device according to the invention,

[0083] [ Figure 19 ] Figure 19 This is a perspective view of the fourteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0084] [ Figure 20 ] Figure 20 Including schematic front views a), b) and c) of the fourteenth embodiment of the device according to the invention,

[0085] [ Figure 21 ] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the fifteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0086] [ Figure 22 ] Figure 22 Including different schematic front views a), b) and c) of the fifteenth embodiment of the device according to the invention,

[0087] [ Figure 23 ] Figure 23 This is a schematic front view of the sixteenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0088] [ Figure 24 ] Figure 24 This is a schematic side view of a knee brace that may be present in any embodiment of the device according to the invention.

[0089] [ Figure 25 ] Figure 25 This is a perspective view of the seventeenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0090] [ Figure 26 ] Figure 26 This is a schematic side view of the seventeenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0091] [ Figure 27 ] Figure 27 This is a schematic side view of the seventeenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0092] [ Figure 28 ] Figure 28 This is a schematic side view of the seventeenth embodiment of the device according to the present invention.

[0093] Since these embodiments are by no means limiting, variations of the invention that include only a selection of features described or shown below, separate from the other features described or shown (even if the selection is separate in a phrase containing those other features), are particularly conceivable, provided that the selection of features is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or differentiate the invention from the prior art. The selection includes at least one feature, preferably functional, without structural details and / or only having a portion of structural details, provided that this portion alone is sufficient to provide a technical advantage or differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0094] In all of the following embodiments of device 100, device 100 for mobilizing (by compressing the knee) the musculoskeletal system of a human user includes:

[0095] - Knee brace 2, configured to cover the knee 3 of a human user to hold the knee brace 2 supported on the knee 3 (at least around the periphery of the knee 3), and / or to hold the knee 3 within the knee brace 2, and configured to apply a modulating force (typically greater than 30 kg and / or less than 120 kg) on ​​the knee 3 covered by the knee brace 2:

[0096] *This adjusting force applies pressure to the knee 3 and directs it toward the bearing surface 5, which is designed to support the user's pelvis, and

[0097] *The adjusting force has a direction from the knee pad 2 to the bearing surface 5 and is contained in the adjusting force application plane 4.

[0098] The force of adjustment is therefore to compress the knee, preferably to generate a compressive force on the pelvis.

[0099] As shown in the embodiments of all the figures, the force application plane 4 is preferably perpendicular to the bearing surface 5.

[0100] Surface 5 is preferably flat.

[0101] The device 100 also includes means for increasing (preferably gradually or continuously) the adjustment force, preferably from zero or low initial values ​​(typically the weight of the knee brace 2, the presence of other components supporting the user's knee 3, or a certain initial tension due to the initial arrangement of the device, in particular). For some designs, this initial tension may include a specific pre-stretching action of the device of about 10 to 300 N to best position the knee brace and to make the arrangement of the adjustment force more efficient. For example, by activating the pawls of each adjustment bracket in the optimal mode, or... Figures 10 to 13 In the design, components are arranged for general adjustment of the strip length, artificially generating the pre-stretch.

[0102] The device 100 also includes a device 7 configured to limit the relative movement of the knee brace 2 relative to the bearing surface 5, according to the stroke limited by the device 7, during the amplification of the adjusting force by the force amplification device 6.

[0103] The position of the adjusting force application plane 4 can vary during the restricted stroke.

[0104] Surface 5 is a limited area designed to receive the user's pelvis.

[0105] In all the following embodiments, the relative movement of the knee brace 2 with respect to the bearing surface 5 will be shown through the movement of the knee brace 2. Each of these embodiments can be altered by reversing or changing the mobility of the knee brace 2 and the surface 5 so that the knee brace 2 and / or the surface 5 are movable.

[0106] Surface 5 is part of the device 100, and its form is, for example:

[0107] - Base (for the user's pelvis), and / or backrest (for the user's back), and / or

[0108] - The backrest of a chair or armchair ( Figure 1 , 2 5, 6 and 7), or

[0109] - Mat, table, or bed ( Figure 3 , 4 and 8 to 23 and 25 to 28).

[0110] In one variant, surface 5 is not part of device 100, which includes fastening means (e.g., jaw system) configured to fasten device 100 to surface 5.

[0111] "Coverage" refers to the knee brace 2 being set (at least during the application of a modulating force exceeding a certain threshold, typically more than 20 kg) to conform (through or without the deformation of the knee brace) to the shape of the knee 3 (typically based on a radius of curvature of at least 3 cm) to prevent the knee from sliding laterally off the knee brace 2 when the knee brace 2 contacts and covers the knee 3.

[0112] Even though not necessarily shown for every embodiment in all the figures, the knee brace 2 and / or the bearing surface 5 may include at least one elastic (in extension and / or in compression) recovery device 111.

[0113] Each recovery device 111 has a given stiffness configured to affect the modulating force applied from the knee brace 2 toward the bearing surface 5. For example, the surface 5 may be a spring-filled pad, and / or the knee brace 2 may be made of an elastically treated material and / or equipped with springs.

[0114] Regarding this design, the design with a single recovery device 111 will be described here, more specifically for Figure 1 , 2 Designs of types 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8, as well as types 19 to 22, have been tested using the following recovery devices:

[0115] - A very flexible assembly, which is therefore suitable for weak and / or sensitive and / or small patients:

[0116] • An initial force F° equal to 254 N; in other words, the minimum force required to achieve the first deformation of the spring.

[0117] The stiffness coefficient R of a spring is equal to 1.84 N / mm.

[0118] For this device, a considerable extension is often noted when using extendable link elements. When the extension reaches a value of 20mm to 50mm, the patient stops stretching their muscles.

[0119] Here, the 20mm extension corresponds to the applied force: (F°+(R*20))=290N.

[0120] The 50mm extension corresponds to an applied force of (F° + (R*50)) = 346N. This force is greater, but still very reasonable because it poses little risk to the patient.

[0121] - The assembly is very rigid, making it suitable for patients in good physical condition:

[0122] • An initial force F° equal to 800N, in other words, the minimum force required to achieve the first deformation of the spring.

[0123] The stiffness coefficient R of a spring equal to 55.8 N / mm.

[0124] For this device, it is often noted that the extension of the extendable link element is quite small. When the extension reaches a value of 10mm to 15mm, the patient stops their muscle stretching.

[0125] The 10mm extension corresponds to the force applied to the spring as follows: (F°+(R*10))=1358N, which already corresponds to a high pressure.

[0126] The 15mm extension corresponds to the following force applied to the spring: (F° + (R*15)) = 1637N.

[0127] The first assembly can be considered well suited for the weakest patients, and the second assembly can be considered well suited for patients in very good physical condition, but it is important to understand that the most important thing is the range of pressure applied to the knee, which is usually 300N to 1600N.

[0128] Therefore, the stiffness of the recovery device 111 is typically greater than 0.5 N / mm and / or less than 70 N / mm.

[0129] In this specification, an element that is "elastic in extension" preferably refers to an element that, when subjected to a tensile force of 100 kg parallel to its length (preferably parallel to the adjusting force), extends beyond its initial length by more than 1% (preferably more than 10%).

[0130] In this specification, an element that is "compressible" or "elastic in compression" preferably refers to an element that shortens by more than 1% (preferably more than 10%) of its initial length when subjected to a pressure of 100 kg parallel to its length (preferably parallel to the adjusting force).

[0131] In this specification, a “non-extendable” element preferably refers to an element that does not extend more than 1% of its initial length when subjected to a tensile force of 100 kg parallel to its length (preferably parallel to the adjusting force).

[0132] In this specification, an "incompressible" element preferably refers to an element that does not shorten by more than 1% of its initial length when subjected to a pressure of 100 kg parallel to its length (preferably parallel to the regulating force).

[0133] exist Figure 2 , 4 In the specific cases of 6 and 8 to 23 and 25 to 28, device 100 includes at least one linking element 9, which will:

[0134] -Attach the knee brace 2 or the components to the knee brace 2.

[0135] - Components connected to or attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0136] The at least one linking element 9 typically includes at least one strip or rod. Even if this is not necessarily shown, it is present in most designs, especially... Figure 3 , 4 In each of the embodiments 6 and 8 to 23 and 25 to 28, at least one recovery device 11, which is elastic in extension and / or compression, may be arranged along the at least one linking element 9, the recovery device 11 having a given stiffness or elasticity along the mechanical connection connecting the knee brace 2 or the element attached to the knee brace 2 to the bearing surface 5 or the element attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0137] As described for device 111, the stiffness of each recovery device 11 is therefore typically greater than 0.5 N / mm and / or less than 70 N / mm.

[0138] These devices 11 have a progressive effect, which provides ease of use and safety, while in particular avoiding an excessively sudden increase and / or an excessively high increase in the force applied to the knee 3 by the knee brace 2.

[0139] These devices 11 can be used to limit the applied force, especially for the purpose of ensuring the safety of the device 100 during its own use. For example, for an assembly with a single spring stiffness coefficient of 1.84 N / mm as described above, it is difficult to achieve a force greater than 50 kg, because this would require the spring to extend 130 mm instead of 50 mm, which is unlikely or can be easily avoided by the user and professionals.

[0140] The device 100 preferably includes a means 13 for replacing the at least one recovery device 11 with different recovery devices 11 having different stiffness and / or elasticity (so that the safety is adapted to different characteristics or different forms for the user); and / or a means 14 for changing the stiffness of the at least one recovery device 11.

[0141] Each link element 9 is:

[0142] -exist Figure 2 In the case of a spring: it is elastic in both extension and compression.

[0143] -exist Figure 6 In the case of: a non-extendable and non-compressible (panel) (which may have a compressible area 2, such as a shock-absorbing pad),

[0144] -exist Figure 4 , 8 In cases 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 to 18 and 23 and 25 to 28: without the recovery device 11, it is non-extendable but compressible (strip); and, with the recovery device 11 present, it is elastic in extension and compressible.

[0145] -exist Figures 19 to 22 In the case where: without the recovery device 11, it is neither extendable nor compressible (rod); in the case where the recovery device 11 is present, it is elastic in both extension and compression.

[0146] Reference Figures 1 to 5 Sections 8 to 12 will first describe a first series of embodiments of device 100.

[0147] exist Figures 1 to 5 In embodiments 8 to 12, the device 7, configured to limit the relative movement of the knee 3 relative to the bearing surface 5, is configured to maintain the position of the force application plane 4, which is parallel to the user's medial plane (i.e., in the user's sagittal plane), fixed during the increase of the force adjustment; more precisely, to maintain the direction of the force adjustment fixed during the increase of the force adjustment. This fixed direction of the force adjustment is preferably perpendicular to the surface 5 and along the axis of the femur.

[0148] If the adjusting force is not perpendicular to surface 5, the user will feel that the component of the applied force is parallel to surface 5. This can cause physical discomfort through the tension it generates, and if the component parallel to surface 5 is large, it may cause the patient's body to shift by sliding on surface 5, unless a wedging system is provided to prevent this phenomenon. The device according to the invention therefore preferably includes such a wedging device configured to prevent the pelvis from sliding on surface 5. This point is valid if the adjusting force is in the sagittal plane, and it is also valid if the adjusting force is not in the sagittal plane.

[0149] If the direction of the force is not along the axis of the femur, the user will feel a component of the movement that causes the femur to lift or lower the knee. The patient may resist the force by activating the muscles in their leg, but this is detrimental to the desired effect of relaxing the muscles. The point holds true if the force is in the sagittal plane, and it also holds true if the force is not in the sagittal plane.

[0150] The user's "midplane" is the plane that separates the left and right halves of the user's body, and is preferably approximately the plane of symmetry of the body (when the latter extends along the body's arms). It is one of countless "sagittal planes" that are parallel to the midplane.

[0151] The device 6 for increasing the adjustment force is configured to increase the adjustment force while reducing the distance between the knee pad 2 and the bearing surface 5.

[0152] The device 7, configured to limit the relative movement of the knee brace 2 relative to the bearing surface 5 based on the limited stroke, is configured to limit the relative movement of the knee brace 2 relative to the bearing surface 5 based on the translational movement of the knee brace 2 in the direction of the surface 5.

[0153] Plane 4 and Figure 1 , 2 The planes of 3 and 5 are parallel.

[0154] Reference Figure 1 In a first embodiment of the device 100, the device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a gripping element (e.g., a lever or handle) attached to the knee brace 2, which the user manually pulls on the bearing surface 5 to pull the knee brace 2 toward the bearing surface when the user's pelvis is on the bearing surface 5.

[0155] The reinforcement 24 is set to abut against the surface 5 to fix its pelvis.

[0156] The bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes the backrest of a chair or armchair.

[0157] The device 7 includes a pivoting joint that allows the knee brace 2 to rotate parallel to the plane 4, and it remains fixed.

[0158] For example, including a connecting member or a deformable parallelogram mechanism (not shown) between the pivoting joint 7 and the knee brace 2 can also restrict the movement of the knee brace 2 perpendicular to the surface 5. However, in one deformation, the direction of force application is not strictly constant, but still remains within a few degrees (typically ±15 degrees), approximately perpendicular to the surface 5.

[0159] Reference Figure 2 The second embodiment of device 100 will be described only. Figure 1 The difference from the first embodiment.

[0160] The device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a restoring device, such as a spring, that applies a restoring force from the knee brace 2 toward the bearing surface 5, and a gripping device (such as a lever or handle) attached to the knee brace 2, which the user can manually pull when their pelvis is on the bearing surface 5 to manually compensate for the restoring force. The adjustment force increases by pushing or pulling less and less.

[0161] The restoring device (which is typically spring-type) forms link element 9, which will:

[0162] - Knee pad 2 or components attached to knee pad 2,

[0163] - Components connected to or attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0164] Reference Figure 3 In a third embodiment of the device 100, the device 6 for increasing the mobilization force includes a step 26 attached to the knee pad 2 and configured to receive the foot of a professional separated from the user, so as to increase the mobilization force by increasing the force applied by the professional on the step 26.

[0165] This effect can be reduced by using a lever-arm type mechanical system (e.g., if the professional applies a weight less than the adjustment force to be applied).

[0166] The device 100 preferably includes means (e.g., a frame and / or pawl type) for accumulating the desired mobilizing force by applying successive forces, the successive force accumulation allowing for gradualness to provide force in a well-quantified manner.

[0167] The bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes a table or bed.

[0168] The device 7 includes a guide 27 configured to guide the portion 25 that connects the knee brace 2 to the step 26. For example, the guide 27 is a hollow tube extending perpendicular to the surface 5, and the connecting portion 25 that connects the knee brace 2 to the step 26 is a sliding pin located in the concentric tube 27 perpendicular to the surface 5.

[0169] The device 100 may include at least one recovery device 11 (not shown) that is elastic (in extension and / or in compression, at least in extension) along the link portion 25, the recovery device 11 having a given stiffness or elasticity along the mechanical link 25 that connects the knee brace 2 to the step 26.

[0170] Each recovery device 11 has a stiffness of typical value.

[0171] Instead, a design with two linking elements 9, each equipped with the same recovery device 11, is particularly suitable for Figure 5 , 910, 13, 14 to 18, 21, 23, and using the following recovery device, for Figures 25 to 28 The design was tested:

[0172] - A very flexible assembly, which is therefore suitable for weak and / or sensitive and / or small patients:

[0173] • An initial force F° equal to 127 N, in other words, the minimum force required to achieve the first deformation of the spring.

[0174] • The stiffness coefficient R of a spring that is equal to 0.92 N / mm.

[0175] For this device, a considerable extension is often noted when using extendable link elements. When the extension reaches a value of 20mm to 50mm, the patient stops stretching their muscles.

[0176] Here, the 20mm extension corresponds to the force applied to the two springs as follows: 2*(F°+(R*20))=290N

[0177] The 50mm extension corresponds to the force applied to the two springs as follows: 2*(F°+(R*50))=346N. This force is greater, but still a very reasonable force because it poses little risk to the patient.

[0178] - The assembly is very rigid, making it suitable for patients in good physical condition:

[0179] • An initial force F° equal to 400N, in other words, the minimum force required to achieve the first deformation of the spring.

[0180] • The stiffness coefficient R of a spring equal to 27.9 N / mm.

[0181] For this device, it is often noted that the extension of the extendable link element is quite small. When the extension reaches a value of 10mm to 15mm, the patient stops stretching their muscles.

[0182] The 10mm extension corresponds to the force applied to the two springs as follows: 2*(F°+(R*10))=1358N, which already corresponds to a high pressure.

[0183] The 15mm extension corresponds to the force applied to the two springs as follows: 2*(F°+(R*15))=1637N.

[0184] The first group can be considered well-suited for the weakest patients, and the second group can be considered well-suited for patients in very good physical condition, but it is important to understand that the most important factor is the range of pressure applied to the knee, typically between 300N and 1600N. Choosing the spring characteristics is one thing, but the way they are used to generate pressure is another. For example, a very weak person could use a second device with a spring stiffness of 27.9 N / m, in a posture that avoids significant delay, and thus withstand only 300 or 400 N of pressure.

[0185] To further illustrate, for patients in good physical condition, a spring with a slightly higher stiffness than the second set of springs proposed can be selected:

[0186] The initial force F° is equal to 510N, not 400N.

[0187] The stiffness coefficient R of the spring is 31.8 N / mm, not 27.9 N / mm.

[0188] For this device, a patient using an extended stroke up to 5 mm will apply a force (for two springs) equal to 2*(F°+(R*5))=1338N, and a patient using an extended stroke up to 10 mm will apply a force (for two springs) of 2*(F°+(K*10))=1656N.

[0189] It can be seen that the force obtained here is quite similar to that obtained for the previous spring pair. The slightly smaller stroke for applying pressure simply compensates for the use of a spring with slightly greater stiffness.

[0190] Finally, it should be noted that the use of such a recovery device 11 is optional, and it is feasible to apply tension directly to the knee, assuming the user knows how to quantify the pressure.

[0191] Each recovery device 11 therefore typically has a stiffness greater than 0.5 N / mm and / or less than 70 N / mm.

[0192] The device 100 may include means (not shown) for replacing the at least one recovery device 11 with different recovery devices to change the stiffness of the at least one recovery device 11, which applies the same principle as in the thirteenth, fourteenth, fifteenth, or sixteenth embodiments described below. This may include, for example, multiple interchangeable spring groups and / or springs with adjustable force.

[0193] Reference Figure 4 In a fourth embodiment of the device 100, the bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes a table or bed.

[0194] Device 100 includes at least one linking element 9, which will:

[0195] - Knee pad 2 or components attached to knee pad 2,

[0196] - Components connected to or attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0197] The at least one linking element 9 includes at least one strip, preferably two strips, or even four strips, which connect the knee brace 2 or an element attached to the knee brace 2 to the surface 5 or to an element attached to the bearing surface 5. These two or four strips are respectively hooked to two opposite sides of the knee brace 2 (one strip on each side of the knee brace 2), or a pair of strips on each side (i.e., the right or left side of the user relative to its mid-plane).

[0198] The device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a device 12 for shortening at least one or each of the linking elements 9, more specifically, a device 12 for shortening at least one or each of the strips. These devices 12 typically include a winder (e.g., a manual winder, which typically has a crank) for each strip, or a winder shared by multiple strips.

[0199] exist Figure 4 In this case, each strip is equipped with a winder to balance the tension of the two strips.

[0200] Two strips or two pairs of strips are configured to pull respectively toward the right and left sides of the sagittal plane of the user whose knee 3 is covered by the knee brace 2 (the sagittal plane passes through the knee brace 2).

[0201] The device 7 includes two strips or two pairs of strips configured to pull the knee brace 2 in a balanced manner to the right and left sides to keep the adjustment force in a fixed plane 4 parallel to the user's midline plane.

[0202] In the preferred case with four strips (not shown), each pair of strips on the right or left side of the user's sagittal plane (which passes through the knee brace 2) comprises two strips arranged to pull forward and backward in a balanced manner parallel to the user's sagittal plane.

[0203] It should be noted that the use of four strips allows the knee brace to be driven according to the limited range of motion, without requiring the patient to exert force to maintain their posture, even if the direction of the force is not in the axis of the femur.

[0204] Reference Figure 5 In a fifth embodiment of the device 100, the bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes the backrest of a chair or armchair.

[0205] The device 6 for increasing the mobilization force includes:

[0206] -The weight attached to the knee brace 2, and

[0207] - A sliding surface, designed to guide the weight and knee pad 2 down along the sliding surface and against the user's knee 3 through the effect of gravity. The user can stop the fall with their hand, their other leg, or a special mechanism.

[0208] The device 7 includes, for example, a guide (which is preferably disposed on the sliding surface) of a straight slide member, which is configured to restrict the movement of the knee brace 2 parallel to the plane 4 according to a preferably straight stroke.

[0209] refer to Figure 8 It will only be in relation to its Figure 4 The eighth embodiment of the device 100 is described in light of the differences from the fourth embodiment.

[0210] In this eighth embodiment, only one strip 9 is equipped with a winder 12, and the other strip 9 is equipped with a spring 11. The two strips are attached to each other and follow one another, so that the winder acts on both strips simultaneously, thereby pulling the knee brace 2 to the right and left in a balanced manner to keep the adjustment force in a fixed plane 4 parallel to the user's center plane.

[0211] refer to Figure 9 It will only be in relation to its Figure 8 The ninth embodiment of the device 100 is described in light of the differences between the eighth embodiment and the previous one.

[0212] In this embodiment, each strip 9 is not connected to the surface 5, but is connected to an element 16 attached to the surface 5 and configured to shorten the length of each strip 9.

[0213] Each element 16 is configured as follows:

[0214] - Blocks lateral movement of the knee 3 and thereby restricts relative movement of the knee brace 2 parallel to the plane 4, and / or

[0215] - Allows for anchoring points of the strips higher than surface 5 (i.e. closer to knee brace 3), which makes it possible to reduce the instability of knee brace 2.

[0216] In this embodiment, as in other embodiments, the means for shortening at least one of the linking elements can be mechanized.

[0217] refer to Figure 10 It will only be in relation to its Figure 4 The tenth embodiment of the device 100 is described in light of the differences from the fourth embodiment.

[0218] In this embodiment, the device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a device for increasing the volume of the interface disposed inside the knee brace 2 and arranged between the knee brace 2 and the knee 3.

[0219] Therefore, knee brace 2 includes:

[0220] - An inflatable pad is placed in knee 2 and between knee brace 2 and knee 3, and

[0221] - An inflation device, such as a manual or finger pump, or an electric pump, is used to inflate the air mattress.

[0222] Figure 10 Part a) shows an illustration of an uninflated mat. Figure 10 Part b) shows the pad being inflated, and therefore during the period of increased mobilization force.

[0223] refer to Figure 11 The eleventh embodiment, which describes only device 100, will be compared with... Figure 4 The difference in the fourth embodiment.

[0224] In this embodiment, the device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a device for increasing the volume of the joint disposed inside the knee brace 2 and arranged between the knee brace 2 and the knee 3.

[0225] Therefore, knee brace 2 includes:

[0226] - A movable piston, or headless screw, etc., disposed in the knee brace 2 and between the knee brace 2 and the knee 3, preferably equipped with a check system (e.g., a valve or rack for a pneumatic system), and

[0227] - Configured as a displacement and / or guiding device, such as a slider, to push the piston in the direction of knee 3.

[0228] Figure 11 Part a) shows the piston in its initial position. Figure 11 Part b) shows the piston moving against the knee 3, thus increasing its displacement during the process.

[0229] Reference Figure 12 The twelfth embodiment, which describes only device 100, will be compared with... Figure 4 The difference in the fourth embodiment.

[0230] In this embodiment, the device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a device for increasing the volume of the joint disposed on the bearing surface 5 and arranged between the bearing surface 5 and the pelvis.

[0231] Therefore, device 100 includes:

[0232] - Pads set on surface 5, and

[0233] - Configured to inflate or shift the pad toward the knee brace using an inflation device (e.g., pneumatic, such as a hand or finger or foot or an electric pump) and / or a shifting device (e.g., via a headless screw or lever arm or cam effect).

[0234] Figure 12 Part a) shows the uninflated pad. Figure 12 Part b) shows the pad being inflated, and thus during the increase in kinetic energy.

[0235] Figures 1 to 5 The different embodiments in 8 to 12 can be combined with each other.

[0236] Now refer to Figure 6 and 13 Sections 23 to 25 to 28 illustrate a second series of embodiments of device 100.

[0237] exist Figure 6 and 13 In embodiments 23 and 25 to 28, the device 7 configured to limit the relative movement of the knee relative to the bearing surface is configured to keep the position of the force application plane 4 parallel to the user's midline plane fixed during the increase of the force, while allowing the direction of the force to gradually increase with the increase of the force, rather than keeping the direction of the force unchanged during the increase of the force.

[0238] Plane 4 is parallel to Figure 6 , 13 The planes 15, 17, and 18.

[0239] Plane 4 is perpendicular to surface 5.

[0240] The bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes a table or bed.

[0241] The direction of the adjusting force is parallel to the straight line perpendicular to surface 5 within ±30 degrees.

[0242] The direction of the adjusting force forms an angle β with a straight line perpendicular to surface 5 and passing through axis 8 or 30:

[0243] - When the adjusting force is borne by an inclined line relative to the line perpendicular to surface 5 on the user's foot side, β is positive (e.g., Figure 13 (as shown),

[0244] - When the regulating force is borne by an inclined straight line relative to the line perpendicular to surface 5 on the user's head side, β is negative (e.g., Figure 15 (As shown).

[0245] The value of this angle β decreases during the increase of the mobilization force.

[0246] The value of the angle β:

[0247] - For zero or negligible values ​​of the regulating force, initially less than or equal to 30°, and / or

[0248] - For the maximum value of the adjustment force in the travel of the knee brace 2, it is preferable to have a final value that is less than or equal to 30° and / or greater than or equal to -30° (and, for example, equal to zero).

[0249] The device 6 for increasing the regulating force is configured to increase the regulating force simultaneously with the following:

[0250] - When β is positive, while increasing the distance 18 between the knee pad 2 and the bearing surface 5 or the plane 17 tangent to the bearing surface 5,

[0251] - When β is negative, the distance 18 between the knee pad 2 and the bearing surface 5 or the plane 17 tangent to the bearing surface 5 is reduced.

[0252] The distance 18 between the knee brace 2 and the bearing surface 5 or the plane tangent to the bearing surface 5 refers to the distance 18 of the shortest line segment connecting the defining point of the knee brace 2 to the bearing surface 5 or the plane tangent to the bearing surface 5, that is, the distance along the vertical projection from the defining point of the knee brace 2 onto the bearing surface 5 or toward the plane tangent to the bearing surface 5.

[0253] The device 6 for increasing the adjustment force is configured to increase the adjustment force while decreasing the angle β.

[0254] The device 7, configured to limit the relative movement of the knee brace 2 relative to the bearing surface 5 according to the limited stroke, is configured to limit the relative movement of the knee brace 2 relative to the bearing surface 5 according to the rotational movement of the knee brace 2 preferably about a rotation axis 8 parallel to the surface 5.

[0255] Device 100 includes at least one linking element 9, which will:

[0256] - Knee pad 2 or components attached to knee pad 2

[0257] - Components connected to or attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0258] The at least one linking element 9 includes at least one strip or rod.

[0259] The device 100 includes a pivot pin 8 of a knee brace 2 on a bearing surface 5 or on an element attached to the surface 5. The at least one linking element 9 connects the pivot pin 8 to the knee brace 2 and is configured to pivot about the pivot pin 8, such that the knee brace 2 pivots about the pivot pin 8.

[0260] The pivot pin 8 can be a mechanical pivot, a hinged link, or a simple strip binding point.

[0261] Device 100 includes a marker or stop 10 configured to position the user's pelvic offset relative to pivot pin 8.

[0262] The device 6 for increasing the adjusting force is configured to increase the adjusting force by pivoting the knee brace 2 about the pivot pin 8, such that, on the projection on the plane tangent to the surface 5, the pivot pin 8 of the knee brace 2 is offset relative to the pivot point 30 of the knee 3 relative to the pelvis (typically offset by at least 5 cm).

[0263] Reference Figures 13 to 18 In a thirteenth embodiment of device 100, the at least one linking element 9 includes two strips 9 that connect both sides of the knee brace 2 to two anchor points along the pivot pin 8. Each strip 9 connects the knee brace 2 to a surface 5 or an element attached to the bearing surface 5. The two strips 9 are hooked to two opposite sides of the knee brace 2 (one strip on each side of the knee brace).

[0264] The device 6 for increasing the adjusting force includes a pivot pin 8, as described above, which, when projected onto a plane tangent to surface 5, or, if surface 5 is flat, onto surface 5, is offset relative to the pivot point 30 of the femur in the pelvis and / or relative to the pivot point of the knee 3 relative to the pelvis. The device 6 for increasing the adjusting force is configured to increase the adjusting force by causing the element 9 (strip) to pivot about the pivot pin 8.

[0265] Two strips are positioned to pull toward the right and left sides of the sagittal plane of the user whose knee 3 is covered by the knee brace 2 (which passes through the knee brace 2).

[0266] The device 7 includes two strips that are configured to pull in a balanced manner toward the right and left sides of the knee brace 2 to keep the adjustment force in a fixed plane 4 parallel to the user's midline plane.

[0267] Figure 13 Part a) corresponds to the start of use of equipment 100, for which the adjustment force is zero or small.

[0268] Figure 13 Part b) corresponds to the use of device 100, in which the mobilizing force has increased rather than been zero by the rotation of the knee pad 2 around the pivot 8.

[0269] Can be done by external professionals (only) Figure 13 As shown in a, but can also be extended to Figure 13 (as in case b), or directly by the user (only in cases b). Figure 13 As shown in b, but can also be extended to Figure 13 In case a), the rotation occurs by using a gripping device attached to the knee brace 2.

[0270] Figure 13 In part b), the distance 18 is greater than Figure 13 In part a), the distance is 18, while β is from... Figure 13 Part a) conversion to Figure 13 Part b) decreases.

[0271] Reference Figure 14 The visible device 100 includes:

[0272] - Reclining backrest

[0273] - The headrest located at the top of the backrest,

[0274] - Toe clip.

[0275] The device 100 also includes multiple positions 19 for fastening the element 9 to the surface 5 or attaching it to the element on the bearing surface 5, which allows for adjustment of different positions of the pin 8 according to the user's configuration.

[0276] With the help of component 9, the knee pad 2 is detachable via a connector, such as a hook.

[0277] Reference Figure 15 The device 100 includes at least one recovery device 11 that is elastic (in extension and / or in compression) along the at least one link element 9, the recovery device 11 having a given stiffness or elasticity along the mechanical link connecting the knee brace 2 to the bearing surface 5.

[0278] Reference Figure 16 The device 100 includes means 13 for replacing at least one recovery device 11 with different recovery devices 11 having different stiffness and / or elasticity, and / or means 14 for changing the stiffness and / or elasticity of the at least one recovery device 11. Typically, the connector allows the knee brace 2 to be hooked to the element 9 (strip) and also allows the recovery device 11 to be changed for different stiffness values. This allows the device to be adjusted to different ranges of applied adjustment force, from the lowest value (for child users or users who are weak in the area of ​​stretch adjustment due to age, wounds, or surgery) to the highest value (for well-fitting adult users, such as athletes, in particular).

[0279] Each recovery device 11 can move along element 9 ( Figure 17 b) Arranged or placed at the end of element 9 ( Figure 16 , Figure 17 c).

[0280] Reference Figure 17 Knee pads 2 ( Figure 17 a) and / or bearing surface 5 ( Figure 17d) Includes at least one recovery device 111 that is elastic (in extension and / or in compression), said recovery device being configured to influence the modulating force applied from the knee brace 2 to the bearing surface 5 with a given stiffness and / or elasticity. The effect of device 111 is the same as that of device 11.

[0281] Reference Figure 18 The device 100 preferably also includes a means 15 configured to change the lever arm applied to the knee brace 2 during its rotation about the pivot pin 8, such an additional strip being connected to the knee brace 2 and providing a cam effect by sliding around the pin 8 but at a certain non-zero distance from the pin 8.

[0282] refer to Figures 19 to 20 The fourteenth embodiment, which describes only device 100, will be compared with... Figures 13 to 18 The differences are as described in the thirteenth embodiment.

[0283] The at least one linking element 9 includes a non-extendable and / or incompressible rod (with an adjustable length) attached to the knee brace 2.

[0284] The device 6 for increasing the adjusting force is configured to increase the adjusting force by pivoting the inextensible and / or incompressible rod 9 about the pivot pin 8.

[0285] Device 7 includes a pin 8 that allows only rotation of an inextensible and / or incompressible rod 9 parallel to plane 4.

[0286] The recovery device 11 is integrated into the rod 9.

[0287] Button 23 allows for the release of the length adjustment of link element 9 by sliding. An additional spring 20 is provided to compensate for the weight of the upper part of the device during adjustment, to the extent that the user can carefully apply it to the knee to adapt it to different user postures before pressure is applied due to rotation around pin 8.

[0288] refer to Figures 21 to 22 It will only be in relation to its Figures 19 to 20 The fifteenth embodiment of the device 100 is described in light of the differences between the fourteenth embodiment and the previous one.

[0289] Reference Figure 21 Button 23 is no longer located at the bottom, but is now located at the top of lever 9.

[0290] Reference Figure 22 The device 100 includes a means 14 for changing the stiffness of the at least one recovery device 11. Typically, different eye bolts allow for the limitation of the useful length of the spring 11 (i.e., the useful number of coils of the spring 11) and thus its stiffness.

[0291] refer to Figure 23The sixteenth embodiment, which describes only device 100, will be compared with... Figures 13 to 18 The differences are as described in the thirteenth embodiment.

[0292] Button 23 (located on knee pad 2) allows for adjustment of the length of each strip 9 to suit different user profiles.

[0293] Preferably, for each recovery device 11, the device 100 includes a means 14 for changing the stiffness of the recovery device 11. Typically, different eye bolts allow for the limitation of the useful length of the spring 11 (i.e., the useful number of coils of the spring 11) and thus its stiffness.

[0294] refer to Figures 25 to 28 The seventeenth embodiment, which only describes device 100, will be compared with... Figures 13 to 18 The differences are as described in the thirteenth embodiment.

[0295] Figure 25 This is an overall view of this embodiment.

[0296] It can be seen that the device 100 of this embodiment includes two components 9.

[0297] Each element 9 is non-extendable but compressible (e.g., via a frame system).

[0298] Each element 9, either the right or left side, can be connected sequentially to the knee brace 2, so that the knee brace 2 is arranged to be applied to the user's knee, either the right or left side.

[0299] As can be seen, the device 100 of this embodiment includes two directional paddles 31, each paddle 31 being located on the right or left side respectively, configured to form an adjustable tilt support surface for the user's left and right legs respectively, while maintaining contact with the thigh during the rotation of the knee pad 2 around the pin 8.

[0300] exist Figure 26 In the image, it can be seen that the user is attaching the knee brace 2 to his left knee (by resting his left thigh against the left paddle 31).

[0301] exist Figure 27 In the image, the user begins with a limited range of motion on their left knee 3, rotating around pin 8. Angle β is positive.

[0302] exist Figure 28 In the image, the user continues to move with limited range of motion on their left knee, rotating around pin 8. Figure 27 Compared to the previous method, angle β has decreased. Figure 27 In comparison, the mobilization force has increased. It should be noted that in this figure, the angle traversed is large, with β even exceeding zero degrees.

[0303] Reference Figure 6In a sixth embodiment of the device 100, the bearing surface 5 forms part of the device 100 and includes the backrest of a chair or armchair.

[0304] The device 6 for increasing the adjustment force includes a receiving surface attached to the knee pad 2 and forming an angle with the bearing surface 5.

[0305] The device 10 also includes a means for adjusting the distance between the knee brace 2 and the corner so that the device 100 can be adapted to different user configurations.

[0306] The receiving surface forms a link element 9, which will:

[0307] - Knee pad 2 or components attached to knee pad 2,

[0308] - Components connected to or attached to the bearing surface 5.

[0309] Device 7 includes the corner and the receiving surface of the knee brace 2, which allows the direction of the mobilization force to be kept fixed when the pelvis sinks into the corner.

[0310] Figure 7 The seventh embodiment of the device 100 illustrates the feasibility of combining the fifth and sixth embodiments.

[0311] Reference Figure 24 The knee brace 2 in any of the above embodiments includes:

[0312] - A central region 21 designed to contact the patella of the knee 3 and a peripheral region 22 designed to surround the patella of the knee 3. Preferably, the peripheral region 22 has a greater stiffness than the central region 21, or

[0313] -A central empty region 21 located at the patella of the knee 3 and a peripheral region 22 surrounding the patella of the knee 3.

[0314] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples described above, and many modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0315] Of course, the various features, forms, variations, and embodiments of the present invention can be combined with each other in various combinations, as long as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the above variations and embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0316] For example, in variations that can be combined with all of the above embodiments:

[0317] - The device 6 for increasing the adjusting force, when it includes a device 12 for shortening the at least one linking element 9, may include elastic (in extension and / or compression) or non-extensible and / or incompressible translational devices for the pin, sliding effects, frame effects, etc., and / or

[0318] - Knee brace 2 forms part of a set of two attached knee braces 2 (e.g., in...) Figures 19 to 22 (As shown in the image), this allows for the activation of the user's right knee, left knee, or both knees simultaneously, and / or...

[0319] Device 100 includes a system for measuring and displaying the value of the force adjustment, such as a force gauge disposed along one of the at least one of the elements 9 and connected to an analog or digital display. In this case, the system for measuring the force adjustment can be directly integrated into the knee brace 2, or integrated into the linking element 9 or one of them (the measuring system may include, for example, a tension transducer integrated along the linking element 9). The force display may be carried by the knee brace 2 and / or may be an LED and / or bar display and / or a digital display and / or an analog display. Such a display enables users and / or professionals to manage the pressure applied to the knee and can resemble a safety device, and / or

[0320] - A sequence of extendable, compressible, and non-extendable segments, as well as adjustable segments, can be located on the same linking element, with the aim of applying pressure to the user's knee in the hip direction, and / or

[0321] - The device 6 for increasing the mobilization force can be motorized, and / or

[0322] - The limited travel of the knee brace can be any, with or without a fixed plane 4. For example, in Figure 23 In one variation of the embodiment, plane 4 may be perpendicular to or inclined to the user's midline plane to bring the knee brace 2 toward the user's midline plane.

[0323] - Each recovery device 11 or 111 can be configured to apply a force against the knee 3 to push or pull the knee brace 2 by means of the following:

[0324] ○ In the compressed state of the equilibrium state of the recovery devices 11, 111, through the extension of the recovery devices 11, 111, or

[0325] ○ In the extended state of the equilibrium state of the recovery devices 11, 111, the compression of the recovery devices 11, 111.

Claims

1. A device (100) for mobilizing the human osteomuscular system, comprising: - a knee protector (2) arranged to cover the knee (3) of a human user to keep the knee protector supported on the knee and to keep the knee in the knee protector, and arranged to exert a mobilization force on the knee covered by the knee protector, the knee protector being arranged to conform to the shape of the knee at least during exertion of a mobilization force exceeding a threshold of 20 kg, to prevent the knee from sliding out of the knee protector perpendicular to the direction of the mobilization force when the knee protector is in contact with and covers the knee, * the mobilization force exerting a pressure on the knee and being directed towards a load bearing surface (5) arranged to support the pelvis of the user to generate a force of compression on the pelvis, and * the mobilization force having a direction from the knee protector to the load bearing surface, - means (6) for increasing the mobilization force from the knee protector to the load bearing surface supporting the pelvis of the user, such that the mobilization force is greater than 30 kg.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device further comprises means arranged to limit the relative movement of the knee protector with respect to the load bearing surface according to a limited travel, during the increase of the mobilization force by the means for increasing the mobilization force, the direction of the mobilization force being contained in a mobilization force application plane (4), the means arranged to limit the relative movement of the knee with respect to the load bearing surface (7) being arranged to keep the position of the mobilization force application plane (4) fixed during the increase of the mobilization force.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein, The means arranged to limit the relative movement of the knee with respect to the load bearing surface (7) are arranged to keep the direction of the mobilization force fixed during the increase of the mobilization force.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - a gripping element attached to the knee protector, the user being able to manually pull the gripping element when the pelvis of the user is on the load bearing surface.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - restoring means exerting a restoring force from the knee protector to the load bearing surface, and means for compensating the restoring force.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - a step attached to the knee protector and arranged to receive the foot of a professional separate from the user, to increase the mobilization force by increasing the force exerted by the professional on the step.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - a weight attached to the knee protector, and a sliding surface arranged to direct the weight and the knee protector along the sliding surface by the effect of gravity to fall against the knee of the user.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - a receiving surface attached to the knee protector and forming a corner with the load bearing surface, and means for adjusting the distance between the knee protector and the corner.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - means for increasing the volume of an interface arranged inside the knee protector and arranged to be disposed between the knee protector and the knee.

10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means (6) for increasing the mobilization force comprise: - means for increasing the volume of an interface arranged on the load bearing surface (5) and arranged to be disposed between the load bearing surface and the pelvis.

11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means for increasing the mobilization force (6) is arranged to increase the mobilization force while decreasing the distance between the knee pad and the load bearing surface (5).

12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The means for increasing the mobilization force (6) is arranged to increase the mobilization force while increasing the distance between the knee pad and a plane tangential to the load bearing surface (5).

13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The device comprises at least one linking element (9) which links: - the knee pad or an element attached to the knee pad - to an element connected to the load bearing surface or attached to the load bearing surface.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The at least one linking element comprises at least one strap or rod.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The device comprises at least one restoring means (11) which is elastic along the at least one linking element, the restoring means having a given stiffness along the mechanical link connecting the knee pad to the load bearing surface.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein, The device comprises means (13) for replacing the at least one restoring means from among different restoring means having different stiffnesses and / or means (14) for varying the stiffness of the at least one restoring means.

17. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The device comprises the load bearing surface (5), on or to an element attached to the load bearing surface (5), the device comprises a pivot pin (8) of a knee pad, the at least one linking element (9) connecting the pivot pin of the knee pad to the knee pad and being arranged to pivot around the pivot pin (8) so that the knee pad pivots around the pivot pin.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The device comprises a marker or stop (10) arranged to enable positioning of the user's pelvic offset relative to the pivot pin.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The pivot pin (8) of the knee pad is offset relative to the pivot point (30) of the knee relative to the pelvis, so that the means for increasing the mobilization force is arranged to increase the mobilization force by causing the knee pad to pivot around the pivot pin.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The at least one linking element (9) comprises a non-extensible and / or non-compressible rod attached to the knee pad, the means for increasing the mobilization force being arranged to increase the mobilization force by causing the non-extensible and / or non-compressible rod to pivot around the pivot pin (8).

21. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The at least one linking element (9) comprises two straps connecting two sides of the knee pad to two anchor points arranged along the pivot pin, the means for increasing the mobilization force being arranged to increase the mobilization force by causing the straps to pivot around the pivot pin (8).

22. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, The device comprises means (15) arranged to vary the lever arm applied to the knee pad during rotation of the means (15) around the pivot pin (8).

23. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein, The means for increasing the mobilization force (6) comprises means (12) for shortening the at least one linking element (9).

24. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The load bearing surface (5) forms part of the device (1) and comprises: - a backrest of a chair or an armchair, and / or - a table, or - a bed.

25. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The knee pad comprises: - a central region (21) intended to come into contact with the patella of the knee and a peripheral region (22) intended to surround the patella of the knee, the peripheral region having a greater stiffness than the central region, or - a central empty area (21) intended to be located at the patella of said knee and a peripheral area (22) intended to surround the patella of said knee.

26. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, Said knee guard forms a set of two parts of an attached knee guard.

27. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, Said device comprises a system for measuring and displaying the value of said mobilization force.

28. The device according to claim 1, characterized in that: - said knee guard comprises at least one elastic restoring means (111), and / or - said device comprises said bearing surface (5) and in that said bearing surface (5) comprises at least one elastic restoring means (111), Said restoring means (111) have a given stiffness arranged to have an effect on the mobilization force exerted on the knee guard towards said bearing surface (5).

Images