Device for coupling a person's extremity to a movement mechanism

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for coupling a person's extremity (5) to a movement mechanism (4). It is characterized in that the device (1) comprises at least one coupling area (2) and a strap area (3), wherein the strap area (3) comprises at least one recess (31; 32) extending at least partially along a longitudinal axis (13), and wherein the at least one recess (31; 32) is configured such that a functional connection between a coupling means (21) of the device (1) and a coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) can be formed through the recess (31; 32). The device (1) advantageously facilitates coupling or reversible connection with the movement mechanism (4) and can be used for various extremity (5) sizes.The device (1) offers the user a high level of wearing comfort, especially on bare skin, and simultaneously enables optimal force transmission from the movement mechanism (4) to the extremity (5). Furthermore, it can be produced cost-effectively.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for coupling an extremity of a person to a movement mechanism, at least comprising: an upper side; a lower side; a coupling region with a transverse end of the coupling region and with at least one coupling means, wherein the coupling means is configured to form an operative connection with a coupling means of the movement mechanism; a flexible belt region with a transverse end opposite the transverse end of the coupling region; a longitudinal axis extending from the transverse end of the coupling region to the transverse end of the belt region; and at least one first closure means configured to interact with the belt region.

[0002] For the automated movement of human extremities, particularly as part of mobilisation therapy, rehabilitation measures or during sports-oriented training, a number of robot-assisted movement mechanisms have been developed in recent years. These enable, for example, the legs and / or feet of a person to be moved automatically in a controlled manner. For example, DE 10 2015 117 596 B3 describes a rehabilitation mechanism for bedridden patients and a method for controlling it, as well as a bed incorporating the rehabilitation mechanism. Crucial to the success of this type of automated movement training is, among other things, the mechanical connection between the automated movement mechanism and the person in question. This connection takes into account not only the comfort for the person training but also the requirements for the patient.For the patient, ease of use for trainers, physiotherapists and / or nursing staff, as well as the possibility of transferring the movement prescribed by the movement mechanism to the person, particularly to their outer extremities such as legs or arms, also plays a significant role. Particularly for bedbound intensive care patients, the compatibility of such a mobilisation measure with other medically necessary therapy equipment, such as catheters or measuring lines to diagnostic devices, is also always important. Due to their often complex design, the leg orthoses known from the state of the art for corresponding purposes do not allow for a quick connection of the user to a corresponding movement mechanism that takes the medical circumstances of the respective patient into account.

[0003] In this context, devices for connecting or coupling a person's leg to a movement mechanism have already become known from DE 10 2018 129 646 A1 and DE 10 2018 129 647 A1, which are intended to ensure the simplest and quickest possible connection. However, the devices described therein are designed in several parts and must be assembled by the users before use. Furthermore, said devices are each specified in a specific size, so that different devices must be provided for different users. Furthermore, said devices of the prior art are designed asymmetrically in order to achieve optimal wearing comfort for both sides of the body (right and left leg). However, this asymmetric design can complicate or slow down the assembly of the devices, since it is disadvantageous to ensure the correct orientation of the individual components.

[0004] Based on this, the present invention seeks to provide a device for coupling a person's extremity to a movement mechanism that is improved compared to the prior art, further simplifies the coupling or connection, and can preferably be used for different extremity circumferences. The device should ensure a high level of comfort and, in particular, be able to be applied to bare skin. It should nevertheless enable optimal force transmission from the movement mechanism to the person's extremity and be cost-effective to produce.

[0005] In the context of the present invention, the term "coupling" refers to a reversible connection between a person's extremity and a movement mechanism, in particular a rehabilitation robot for performing automated mobilization of bedridden patients, by means of a device within the meaning of the invention. A device according to the invention should be configured both to reversibly accommodate a person's extremity and to establish a reversible connection to the movement mechanism.

[0006] This object is achieved by a device for coupling an extremity of a person to a movement mechanism having the features of independent patent claim 1.

[0007] A device according to the invention is distinguished from generic devices in that the belt region comprises at least one recess extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis, wherein the at least one recess is designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means of the device and the coupling means of the movement mechanism can be formed through the recess.

[0008] A device configured in this way can advantageously accommodate a person's extremity, in particular by placing the strap portion of the device around the extremity to be accommodated in a band-like manner, and then said extremity, including the device, can be coupled to said movement mechanism by forming an operative connection between the coupling means of the device and the coupling means of the movement mechanism. The possibility of forming said operative connection between the coupling means of the device and the coupling means of the movement mechanism through the recess advantageously allows the device to be fully assembled in the factory and sold ready for use, while simultaneously ensuring the user the greatest possible flexibility in handling—for example, in size adjustment.The device according to the invention advantageously does not require any assembly by the nursing staff before use and can be easily and quickly put on or taken off the person's extremity.

[0009] Further advantageous embodiments and developments, which can be used individually or in combination with one another, are the subject of the respective dependent claims.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling means of the device can be designed as a receiving means which is configured to receive the coupling means of the movement mechanism, wherein the coupling means of the device designed as a receiving means is preferably designed as a latching receptacle with a latching mechanism, and wherein the coupling means of the movement mechanism is preferably designed as a latching pin corresponding to the latching receptacle with a pin head, a pin body and a pin base.

[0011] Alternatively, in a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling means of the movement mechanism can be designed as a receiving means which is designed to receive the coupling means of the device, - wherein the coupling means of the movement mechanism designed as a receiving means is preferably designed as a locking receptacle with a locking mechanism, and - wherein the coupling means of the device is designed as a locking pin corresponding to the locking receptacle with a pin head, a pin body and a pin base.

[0012] Both variants of coupling means combinations, i.e., both previously described design variants of the coupling means of the device and the coupling means of the movement mechanism, and their respective combination, advantageously enable the extremity of a person, including the device, to be brought into reversible operative connection with the respective receiving means, preferably designed as a locking receptacle with a locking mechanism, by means of the respective locking pin. The design as a locking pin and locking receptacle with a locking mechanism advantageously enables simple and quick locking / releasing of the device to / from the movement mechanism and vice versa.The variant in which the coupling means of the device is designed as a locking pin with a pin head, a pin body and a pin base and the coupling means of the movement mechanism is designed as a receiving means which is designed to receive the coupling means of the device, can furthermore advantageously make it easier for the user to couple the device and the movement mechanism in that the locking pin on the device can serve as a type of introduction or threading aid into the receiving means of the movement mechanism.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it has also proven advantageous if the device comprises a first and at least one second band element, wherein the band elements run continuously from the transverse end of the coupling region to the transverse end of the belt region and are each substantially rectangular in shape, and wherein the at least one second band element is arranged below the first band element with respect to the coupling means. Furthermore, a connecting film can preferably be arranged at least in sections between the first band element and the at least one second band element, which is designed to enable a materially bonded connection between the band elements.

[0014] A first and at least one second band element, which extend over the entire longitudinal extent of the device, advantageously enable a continuous transition from the coupling region to the belt region. The band elements, which can in particular be made of a flexible material, can advantageously be wrapped around a person's extremity with any desired radius, similar to a bandage. A connecting film, which can preferably be made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), is arranged between the first band element and the at least one second band element, preferably at least in sections, and can also promote the formation of a material-to-material connection between the band elements during the production process as part of plastic welding, in particular as part of high-frequency welding.Particularly preferably, said connecting foil, like the band elements, can extend over the entire longitudinal extent of the device.

[0015] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the first closure means can be arranged on the top side of the device, preferably in its coupling area. Alternatively or additionally, the first closure means can also be designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, which forms a so-called adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener, and the strap area can be designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, which forms a so-called fleece part of a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0016] A first closure means arranged on the upper side, in particular in the coupling region of the device, advantageously enables an interaction to be established precisely between the coupling region, i.e. the region around the coupling means, and the belt region of the device, thereby stabilizing the coupling of the device to the movement mechanism. If the first closure means is designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with barbs, it can advantageously form a hook-and-loop fastener with the belt region designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with loops over the entire length (i.e. essentially along the entire longitudinal axis) of the device. This advantageously enables continuous adjustment of the diameter of the device during use, thus ensuring a particularly cost-effective "one-size-fits-all" variant of the device according to the invention.The use of polyamide velour tape, preferably as the first and / or second tape element, also results in a comfortable wearing experience for the user of the device, particularly when the device is applied to a bare extremity of the user.

[0017] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous for the device to comprise at least a second closure means configured to interact with the strap portion and arranged in the region of the transverse end of the strap portion on the top or bottom of the device. Such a second closure means advantageously allows the transverse end of the strap portion to be reversibly connected to the strap portion, thereby preventing the otherwise loose transverse end from unduly flapping around during use.

[0018] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the device can also comprise at least two second closure means, which are configured to interact with the belt region and which are arranged on the device in the region of the transverse end of the belt region. Preferably, at least one of the second closure means can be arranged on the upper side and at least one of the second closure means on the lower side.As before, such second closure means can advantageously prevent an otherwise loose transverse end from undesirably "flapping around" during use by forming a reversible interaction between the transverse end of the belt region and the belt region, wherein the provision of at least two second closure means, of which at least one is arranged on the upper side and the other on the lower side of the device, further enables the user to fold the flexible belt region in any direction to produce said interaction.

[0019] It is advantageous if the second fastening means is designed as a hook and loop fastener with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, which forms a so-called adhesive part of a hook and loop fastener, and that the belt area is designed as a hook and loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, which forms a so-called fleece part of a hook and loop fastener.

[0020] If the second fastening means(s) are designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with barbs, such fastening means can advantageously form a hook-and-loop fastener with the strap portion designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with loops over the entire length (i.e., substantially along the entire longitudinal axis) of the device. This advantageously enables the creation of a reversible interaction between the transverse end of the strap portion and the strap portion, i.e., a temporary attachment of the transverse end of the strap portion to the strap portion, at any desired location along the longitudinal axis of the device. The use of polyamide velour tape, preferably as the first and / or second tape element, furthermore results in the device being comfortable for the user to wear, particularly when the device is applied to a bare extremity of the user.

[0021] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, it has proven effective if the device allows a maximum elastic stretch of 3-5%, preferably 4%, of the total length of the device along the longitudinal axis from the transverse end of the coupling region to the transverse end of the strap region. Such a "stretch" advantageously prevents the device from constricting the extremity, which can be disadvantageous, particularly with a maximum possible elastic stretch of less than 3% of the total length of the device. In this case, the device does not fit well against the person's extremity.On the other hand, a "stretch" in the above-mentioned value range also advantageously prevents excessive rubber-like springing of the extremity within the device, which would make it difficult to optimally transmit force from the movement mechanism to the person's extremity and can be detrimental at maximum possible elastic stretches greater than 5% of the total length of the device.

[0022] A further advantageous embodiment of the invention is one in which the belt region comprises at least one folding region designed to facilitate folding of the device, in particular folding of the belt region. Such a folding region, which can be created in particular by bonding the first belt element to the second belt element in this region by means of plastic welding, in particular by means of high-frequency welding, so that a type of predetermined bending point is formed, advantageously enables easier folding back and stowing of the other sections of the belt region of the device.

[0023] In a further, particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the belt region can comprise at least two recesses along the longitudinal axis, which are separated from one another by a web and which are designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means of the device and the coupling means of the movement mechanism can be formed through the at least two recesses. The web can advantageously serve as a pulling means or a finger tab when putting on the device, which can be advantageously further facilitated by the arrangement of a folding area precisely in the region of the web. Furthermore, the web can also advantageously exert a stabilizing effect on the strap elements, in particular on the longitudinal sides of the strap elements that lie opposite one another in the region of a recess, and thus promote a uniform and symmetrical fit of the device on the respective extremity of the person during use.

[0024] It has proven to be advantageous if the length from the transverse end of the coupling area to the web is between 465 and 495 mm, preferably 480 mm; or between 545 and 575 mm, preferably 560 mm; or between 610 and 640 mm, preferably 625 mm.

[0025] If the length of the device from the transverse end of the coupling area to the web is between 610 and 640 mm, preferably 625 mm, the diameter of the device during use - i.e. when placed around an extremity - advantageously has a value that is suitable for a large user group. This advantageously creates a type of "standard size" of the device, which is easily recognizable by the user themselves and also by nursing staff thanks to the web, and which simplifies the application of the device to the extremity. To provide a device according to the invention in this sense, especially for small children, a length of the device from the transverse end of the coupling area to the web of between 465 and 495 mm, preferably 480 mm, has proven effective. In a third advantageous variant of the device according to the invention, the length of the device from the transverse end of the coupling area to the web can also be between 545 and 575 mm, preferably 560 mm.

[0026] Furthermore, a configuration of the present invention has proven successful in which the device, in particular its coupling region, comprises sensors for measuring physical and / or physiological variables, in particular sensors for measuring force, temperature, pulse, or the like. Such sensors can advantageously provide measurement data regarding the force exerted by the movement mechanism on the person's extremity during the execution of rehabilitation and / or training movements, as well as their physiological reaction or state of health during the execution of the movement, thereby advantageously improving the control and regulation of the movement mechanism and, in particular, the automated movement therapy and mobilization performed by the movement mechanism.

[0027] Finally, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, the coupling region can be constructed in a sandwich-like manner, wherein at least the following layers can be arranged one on top of the other in the direction from the bottom to the top of the device: - first the second band element as the underside of the device; - a first reinforcing plate on said second band element; - on said first reinforcing plate at least one second reinforcing plate, wherein the second reinforcing plate comprises a recess for the coupling means; - on said second reinforcing plate, the connecting foil, wherein the connecting foil comprises a recess for the coupling agent; - on said connecting foil, the first band element, wherein the first band element comprises a recess for the coupling agent; - and on said first band element the first closure means.

[0028] Thanks to such a sandwich-like structure, the coupling area advantageously has sufficient rigidity to ensure optimal force transfer from the movement mechanism to the person's extremity, but also sufficient elasticity to adapt to the anatomical conditions of the extremity and protect the user from pressure sores and the compression of blood vessels in the extremity. The first and second reinforcement plates can advantageously be made of polyethylene, in particular high-density polyethylene. The thickness of said reinforcement plates can be in the range of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably 2.0 mm. The first and the at least one second reinforcement plate can also advantageously be placed on top of one another - in particular without an adhesive layer in between - and thus interact with one another exclusively via frictional engagement.This allows a relative movement of the reinforcement plates to one another when the coupling area is bent during use, which advantageously increases the elasticity of the device in the coupling area.

[0029] The recess in the second reinforcement plate can preferably be designed such that the pin head and the pin body of a coupling means configured as a locking pin can be passed through, but not its pin base. As a result, a coupling means configured as a locking pin, which can additionally be arranged on said first reinforcement plate, can advantageously be fixed to the first reinforcement plate by the second reinforcement plate.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, more than one second reinforcement plate can be provided in the coupling region, so that, for example, a coupling region is formed with a first reinforcement plate and two second reinforcement plates. The two second reinforcement plates rest on one another in a frictionally engaged manner and each comprise a recess through which the coupling means of the device, in particular the pin head and the pin body of a coupling means designed as a locking pin, can be passed, but not its pin base. The thickness of said reinforcement plates can also advantageously be in the range of 1.5 mm to 2.5 mm, preferably 2 mm.

[0031] Another advantageous embodiment of the invention is one in which the first closure means comprises a recess through which the coupling means, in particular the pin head and the pin body of a coupling means designed as a locking pin, can be passed, but not its pin base. In one embodiment of the invention, the first closure means can be designed in several pieces and can be arranged in particular in a strip-like manner around the locking pin on the first band element. However, if the first closure means comprises a recess through which the pin head and the pin body of a coupling means designed as a locking pin can be passed, but not its pin base, the first closure means can advantageously be designed in one piece, which simplifies the manufacture of said first closure element.In such a one-piece design, the first closure element can, for example, simply be cut from a band-like material supply, in particular a Velcro strip, and the recess can be punched out.

[0032] Additional details and further advantages of the invention are described below with reference to preferred embodiments, to which the present invention is not limited, and in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0033] It shows schematically: Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a section of a first embodiment of a movement mechanism and of a first embodiment of a device according to the invention in a state applied to an extremity of a person shortly before coupling in the sense of the invention; Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a section of a second embodiment of a movement mechanism and of a second embodiment of a device according to the invention in a state applied to an extremity of a person shortly before coupling in the sense of the invention; Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a device according to the invention in the rolled-out state, again in a perspective view; Fig. 4 the design of Fig. 3 in a plan view; Fig. 5 the design from the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 in a side view; Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of a coupling region of a device according to the invention in an enlarged side view; and Fig. 7 a perspective view of an embodiment of a coupling means designed as a locking pin in the sense of the present invention.

[0034] In the following description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, like reference numerals designate like or comparable components.

[0035] Fig. 1 shows in a perspective view a section of a first embodiment of a movement mechanism 4 and a first embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention in a state applied to an extremity 5 of a person shortly before coupling in the sense of the invention.

[0036] The device 1 according to the invention serves, among other things, to enable a quick, safe, and simple coupling of a person's extremity 5, in particular a leg as shown here, to a movement mechanism 4. Within the context of the present invention, the movement mechanism 4 preferably refers to rehabilitation robots that can perform automated movement, in particular of the lower extremities of a person and are used, for example, to mobilize bedridden patients after a stroke. Fig. 1 shows a partial illustration of an example of such a movement mechanism 4. The movement mechanism 4 outlined here can be used in particular at the foot end of a hospital bed and transmit the automated movement it performs via at least one arm 41 to the extremity 5 of a person. For this purpose, a device 1 is preferably interposed between the arm 41 and the extremity 5, which device 1 can, on the one hand, ensure a safe, uniform and, at the same time, comfortable transmission of force from the arm 41 to the extremity 5 and, on the other hand, for reasons of hygiene but also for better handling by the nursing staff, can be assigned to a specific person throughout the entire rehabilitation process and advantageously remains with the respective person. For this purpose, the device 1 according to the invention comprises, as shown in Fig. 1, an upper side OS, a lower side US and a coupling region 2 with a transverse end 23 of the coupling region 2 and with at least one coupling means 21, wherein the coupling means 21 is configured to form an operative connection with a coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4.

[0037] The coupling means 21 of the device 1 can be in a variant as in Fig. 1, be designed as a receiving means which is configured to receive the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4. For this purpose, it can preferably be designed as a locking receptacle with a locking mechanism. The coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can then be designed as a locking pin corresponding to the locking receptacle, with a pin head 211, a pin body 212, and a pin base 213. Said locking mechanism can, for example, comprise a spring mechanism into which the pin head 211 of the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4, designed as a locking pin, can engage. To release the device 1 from the arm 41 of the movement mechanism 4, said spring mechanism can then be released again quickly and easily.The coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4, in particular the coupling means 42 designed as a locking pin, can preferably be designed to be rotationally symmetrical in order to enable cost-effective production of this component (see also . Fig. 6). The coupling agent 42 can also preferably be made of polycaprolactam (polyamide 6) but also of a metallic material.

[0038] Fig. 2 shows in a perspective view a section of a second embodiment of a movement mechanism 4 and a second embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention in a state applied to an extremity 5 of a person shortly before coupling in the sense of the invention.

[0039] In this variant of the invention, the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can be designed as a receiving means which is configured to receive the coupling means 21 of the device 1. In this variant, the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4, designed as a receiving means, is preferably designed as a latching receptacle with a latching mechanism, and the coupling means 21 of the device 1 is preferably designed as a latching pin corresponding to the latching receptacle, with a pin head 211, a pin body 212, and a pin base 213. In this variant, too, said latching mechanism can comprise, for example, a spring mechanism into which the pin head 211 of the coupling means 21 of the device 1, designed as a latching pin, can latch.In order to release the device 1 from the arm 41 of the movement mechanism 4, said spring mechanism can then be released again quickly and easily, preferably by means of a locking button 43 arranged on the arm 41. The coupling means 21 of the device 1, in particular the coupling means 21 designed as a locking pin, can preferably be designed rotationally symmetrical in order to enable cost-effective production of this component (cf. also . Fig. 6). The coupling agent 21 can also preferably be made of polycaprolactam (polyamide 6)

[0040] The device 1 according to the invention further comprises a flexible belt region 3 with a transverse end 35 opposite the transverse end 23 of the coupling region 2 and a longitudinal axis 13 extending from the transverse end 23 of the coupling region 2 to the transverse end 35 of the belt region 3 (cf. also Fig. 4 and Fig. 5).

[0041] Fig. 3 shows a further embodiment of a device 1 according to the invention in the rolled-out state, again in a perspective view.

[0042] A first 11 and at least one second 12 band element can, as in Fig. 3, run continuously from the transverse end 23 of the coupling region 2 to the transverse end 35 of the belt region 3 and are each substantially rectangular in shape. The substantially rectangular design of the band elements 11 and 12 advantageously enables a symmetrical construction of the device 1 with respect to the longitudinal axis 13 and thus a use on both the right and left extremities 5 of a person. The at least one second band element 12 can preferably be arranged below the first band element 11 with respect to the coupling means 21. Between the first band element 11 and the at least one second band element 12, a connecting film 14 can also be arranged at least in sections, which is designed to enable a materially bonded connection between the band elements 11 and 12 (cf. also Fig. 6).

[0043] The device 1 according to the invention further comprises at least one first closure means 22, which is designed to interact with the belt region 3. The first closure means 22 can be arranged in particular on the upper side OS of the device 1, preferably in its coupling region 2. The first closure means 22 is preferably designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, thereby advantageously forming a so-called adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener. The belt region 3 can then preferably be designed accordingly as a hook-and-loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, and form a so-called fleece part of a hook-and-loop fastener. If the belt region 3 is placed around the extremity 5 of a person for accommodation, the device 1 can in this way advantageously be continuously adjusted in its diameter to the respective diameter of the extremity 5.The use of polyamide velour tape, preferably as the first 11 and / or second 12 tape element, furthermore results in the device 1 being comfortable for the user to wear, particularly when the device 1 is applied to a bare extremity 5 of the user. According to the invention, the strap region 3 comprises at least one recess 31 or 32 extending at least partially along the longitudinal axis 13, which is designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means 21 of the device 1 and the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can be formed through the recess 31 or 32. In the embodiment shown in . Fig. In the variant of the device 1 according to the invention shown in Figure 1, for example, the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4, designed as a locking pin, can be guided through the recess 31 or 32 and locked into the coupling means 21 of the device 1, designed as a locking receptacle, in order to create said operative connection. Fig. In the alternative variant of the device 1 according to the invention shown in Fig. 2, the coupling means 21 of the device 1, which is designed as a locking pin and which is guided in particular through the recess 31 or 32 and projects upwards from the upper side OS of the device, can instead be locked into the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4, which is designed as a locking receptacle, in order to again produce said operative connection.

[0044] As in Fig. 3, the belt region 3 can also comprise at least two recesses 31 and 32 along the longitudinal axis 13, which are separated from one another by a web 33 and which are designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means 21 of the device 1 and the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can be formed through the at least two recesses 31 and 32. The first 31 and second 32 recesses can extend, in particular, elongated along the longitudinal axis 13 in order to allow the coupling means 21 of the device 1 and / or the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 to pass through said recesses 31 and 32 with different diameters of the device 1 formed during use. The device 1 can then advantageously, as in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, in order to accommodate the extremity 5 of a person, the coupling means 21 of the device 1 and / or the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 are preferably first guided through the first recess 31 after being guided around the extremity 5 once, and the projecting belt region 3 is then folded over and guided back towards the coupling means 21 or 42. The coupling means 21 of the device and / or the coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can now be guided through the second recess 32 and the transverse end 35 of the belt region 3 can be operatively connected to the belt region 3, in particular to its first band element 11, by means of at least one second, preferably two second, closure means 36.This advantageously prevents the belt section 3, which is not required in the respective application, from protruding from the device 1 and hindering the user during movement. The second closure means 36 can for this purpose be arranged in particular in the region of the transverse end 35 of the belt section 3 on the upper side OS or the lower side US of the device 1. The length 341 from the transverse end 23 of the coupling section 2 to the web 33 can be between 610 and 640 mm, preferably 625 mm, in order to advantageously provide a type of "standard size" for a large group of adult users. Alternatively, the length 341 from the transverse end 23 of the coupling section 2 to the web 33 can also be between 545 and 575 mm, preferably 560 mm. A length 341 from the transverse end 23 of the coupling section 2 to the web 33 of between 465 and 495 mm, preferably 480 mm, has proven particularly suitable for small children.

[0045] The Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 show the design of Fig. 3 in a top view ( Fig. 4) and in a side view ( Fig. 5).

[0046] In Fig. 4 it can be seen that the belt area 3 can comprise at least one folding area 34, or as shown here, for example, three folding areas 34, in which a folding of the device 1, in particular its belt area 3, is facilitated. These folding areas 34 advantageously function as predetermined bending or folding points and can facilitate the folding back or folding of the belt area 3, which can not only advantageously enable the attachment of excess device material during use, but also a folding for space-saving stowage (storage) of the device 1 after use. In addition to the exemplary embodiments shown in particular in Fig. 4, approximately in the middle of the first recess 31 and approximately in the middle of the second recess 32, a folding area 34 can also preferably be arranged in the area of ​​the web 33. In order to ensure an optimal fit even during the execution of movements by the movement mechanism 4, the device 1 can furthermore preferably be designed such that it allows a maximum elastic stretch of 3-5%, preferably 4%, of the total length of the device 1 along the longitudinal axis 13 from the transverse end 23 in the coupling area 2 to the transverse end 35 in the belt area 3.

[0047] The Fig. 4 and Fig. The embodiment of the device 1 according to the invention shown by way of example in Figure 5 comprises four second fastening means 36 which are arranged in the region of the transverse end 35 of the belt region 3 on the device 1, wherein two of the second fastening means 36 are arranged on the upper side OS and two of the second fastening means 36 are arranged on the lower side US. The second fastening means 36, like the at least one first fastening means 22, are preferably designed to interact with the belt region 3. For this purpose, the second fastening means 36 can be designed in particular as hook-and-loop fasteners with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, which form a so-called adhesive part of a hook-and-loop fastener, wherein the belt region 3 can correspondingly be designed as a hook-and-loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, which then forms the so-called fleece part of the hook-and-loop fastener.

[0048] In Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of a coupling region 2 of a device 1 according to the invention in an enlarged side view and Fig. Finally, Figure 7 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a coupling means 21 designed as a locking pin in the sense of the present invention.

[0049] The coupling area 2 can, as in Fig.6, preferably be constructed like a sandwich, wherein in the direction from the underside US to the top side OS of the device 1 the second band element 12 can first be arranged as the underside US of the device 1. A first reinforcing plate 25 can be arranged on the second band element 12, which in turn is followed by at least one second reinforcing plate 26, wherein this second reinforcing plate 26 can preferably comprise a recess for the coupling means 21. The connecting film 24 can then preferably be arranged on said second reinforcing plate 26, wherein the connecting film 24 can also comprise a recess for the coupling means 21. The connecting film 24 can then be covered by the first band element 11, wherein the first band element 11 preferably also comprises a recess for the coupling means 21.Finally, on said first band element 11, the first closure means 22 can close the sandwich-like structure toward the upper side OS. The first closure means 22 can also include a recess for the coupling means 21.

[0050] By means of such a sandwich-like construction of the coupling region 2, in which in particular the pin head 211 and the pin body 212 of a coupling means 21 designed as a locking pin are guided through recesses in the second reinforcing plate 26, the connecting film 24, the first band element 11 and in particular also the first closure means 22 and the individual levels of the sandwich-like construction are materially connected to one another at the edges of the device 1, for example by means of plastic welding, in particular high-frequency welding, a coupling region 2 can be formed in a cost-effective manner which advantageously has an optimal degree of rigidity and elasticity in order to enable a uniform transmission of force from the movement mechanism 4 to the extremity 5 and at the same time offer a high level of wearing comfort.Finally, the device 1, in particular its coupling region 2, can also comprise sensors for measuring physical and / or physiological variables, in particular sensors for measuring force, temperature, pulse, or the like (not shown here). The measurement data obtained during exercise therapy and / or mobilization can then advantageously be used as control data for the movement mechanism 4 or can be used by the physician or therapist to optimize a treatment strategy.

[0051] The present invention relates to a device 1 for coupling a person's extremity 5 to a movement mechanism 4. It is characterized in that the device 1 comprises at least one coupling region 2 and a belt region (3), wherein the belt region 3 comprises at least one recess 31 or 32 extending at least in sections along a longitudinal axis 13, and wherein the at least one recess 31 or 32 is designed such that an operative connection between a coupling means 21 of the device 1 and a coupling means 42 of the movement mechanism 4 can be formed through the recess 31 or 32. The device 1 advantageously facilitates a coupling or reversible connection to the movement mechanism 4 and can be used for different circumferences of the extremity 5.The device 1 offers the user a high level of comfort, especially when worn on bare skin, and at the same time enables optimal force transmission from the movement mechanism 4 to the extremity 5. Furthermore, it can be produced cost-effectively. List of reference symbols 1 device 11 first band element 12 second band element 13 Longitudinal axis 14 Connecting foil 2 Coupling area 21 Coupling means of the device (1) 211 tenon head 212 pin body 213 tenon base 22 first closure means 23 Transverse ends in the coupling area (2) 24 first reinforcement plate 25 second reinforcement plate 3 Belt area 31 first recess 32 second recess 33 jetty 331 web width 34 folding area 341 Length of the device (1) from the transverse end (23) to the web (33) 35 transverse ends in the belt area (3) 351 Width of the transverse end (35) 36 Second closure means 4 Movement mechanism 41 Arm 42 Coupling means of the movement mechanism (4) 43 locking button 5 Extremity OS top US bottom QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2015 117 596 B3

[0002] DE 10 2018 129 646 A1

[0003] DE 10 2018 129 647 A1

[0003]

Claims

[1] Device (1) for coupling an extremity (5) of a person to a movement mechanism (4), at least comprising: - a top side (OS); - a subpage (US); - a coupling region (2) with a transverse end (23) of the coupling region (2) and with at least one coupling means (21), - wherein the coupling means (21) is arranged to form an operative connection with a coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4); - a flexible belt region (3) with a transverse end (35) opposite the transverse end (23) of the coupling region (2); - a longitudinal axis (13) extending from the transverse end (23) of the coupling region (2) to the transverse end (35) of the belt region (3); - and at least one first closure means (22) which is arranged to interact with the belt area (3); characterized by , that - that the belt region (3) comprises at least one recess (31; 32) extending at least in sections along the longitudinal axis (13), - wherein the at least one recess (31; 32) is designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means (21) of the device (1) and the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) can be formed through the recess (31; 32). [2] Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the coupling means (21) of the device (1) is designed as a receiving means which is arranged to receive the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4), - wherein the coupling means (21) of the device (1) designed as a receiving means is preferably designed as a locking receptacle with a locking mechanism, and - wherein the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) is preferably designed as a locking pin corresponding to the locking receptacle with a pin head (211), a pin body (212) and a pin base (213). [3] Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) is designed as a receiving means which is arranged to receive the coupling means (21) of the device (1), - wherein the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) designed as a receiving means is preferably designed as a locking receptacle with a locking mechanism, and - wherein the coupling means (21) of the device (1) is designed as a locking pin corresponding to the locking receptacle with a pin head (211), a pin body (212) and a pin base (213). [4] Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat the device (1) comprises a first (11) and at least one second (12) band element; - wherein the band elements (11, 12) extend continuously from the transverse end (23) of the coupling region (2) to the transverse end (35) of the belt region (3) and are each substantially rectangular, - wherein the at least one second band element (12) is arranged below the first band element (11) with respect to the coupling means (21), - and wherein preferably between the first band element (11) and the at least one second band element (12) a connecting film (14) is arranged at least in sections, which is designed to enable a material connection between the band elements (11; 12). [5] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , - that the first closure means (22) is arranged on the upper side (OS) of the device (1), preferably in its coupling region (2); and / or - that the first fastening means (22) is designed as a hook and loop fastener with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, which forms a so-called adhesive part of a hook and loop fastener, and that the belt area (3) is designed as a hook and loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, which forms a so-called fleece part of a hook and loop fastener. [6] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (1) comprises at least one second closure means (36) which is designed to interact with the belt region (3) and which is arranged in the region of the transverse end (35) of the belt region (3) on the upper side (OS) or the lower side (US) of the device (1). [7] Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the device (1) comprises at least two second closure means (36) which are designed to interact with the belt region (3) and which are arranged in the region of the transverse end (35) of the belt region (3) on the device (1), wherein at least one of the second closure means (36) is arranged on the upper side (OS) and at least one of the second closure means (36) is arranged on the lower side (US). [8] Device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by that the second fastening means (36) is designed as a hook and loop fastener with barbs, in particular made of polyamide, which forms a so-called adhesive part of a hook and loop fastener, and that the belt area (3) is designed as a hook and loop fastener with loops, in particular made of polyamide velour tape, which forms a so-called fleece part of a hook and loop fastener. [9] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the device (1) along the longitudinal axis (13) allows a maximum elastic elongation of 3 - 5%, preferably 4%, of the total length of the device (1) from the transverse end (23) of the coupling region (2) to the transverse end (35) of the belt region (3). [10] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the belt area (3) comprises at least one folding area (34) which is designed to facilitate folding of the device (1), in particular folding of the belt area (3). [11] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the belt area (3) comprises at least two recesses (31; 32) along the longitudinal axis (13), - which are separated from each other by a web (33), - and which are designed such that the operative connection between the coupling means (21) of the device (1) and the coupling means (42) of the movement mechanism (4) can be formed through the at least two recesses (31; 32). [12] Device (1) according to claim 11, characterized by that a length (341) from the transverse end (23) of the coupling area (2) to the web (33) - between 465 and 495 mm, preferably 480 mm; or - between 545 and 575 mm, preferably 560 mm; or - between 610 and 640 mm, preferably 625 mm. [13] Device (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the device (1), in particular its coupling region (2), comprises sensors for measuring physical and / or physiological variables, in particular sensors for force measurement, temperature measurement, pulse measurement, or the like. [14] Device (1) according to one of claims 4 to 13, characterized bythat the coupling region (2) is constructed in a sandwich-like manner, wherein in the direction from the underside (US) to the top side (OS) of the device (1) at least the following layers are arranged one on top of the other: - firstly the second band element (12) as the underside (US) of the device (1); - a first reinforcing plate (25) on said second band element (12); - on said first reinforcement plate (25) at least one second reinforcement plate (26), wherein the second reinforcement plate (26) comprises a recess for the coupling means (21); - on said second reinforcing plate (26) the connecting film (24), wherein the connecting film (24) comprises a recess for the coupling means (21); - on said connecting foil (24) the first band element (11), wherein the first band element (11) comprises a recess for the coupling means (21); - and on said first band element (11) the first closure means (22). [15] Device according to claim 14, characterized by that the first closure means (22) comprises a recess for the coupling means (21).

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