Sitting walker

Abstract

Seated walker (100) including - a frame assembly having a first and a second frame (110', 110''), in particular a left frame and a right frame, wherein the first and the second frame each have a carrier (120', 120''), a drive assembly (170', 170'') for the carrier and an armrest (130', 130''); - at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') connecting the first and second frames (110', 110'') to each other; - a seat surface (150) arranged between the first and second frames (110', 110'') and supported by the supports (120', 120''); - at least one handle (160', 160'') for pulling or pushing the seated walker (100); wherein - the seat (150), the armrests (130', 130'') and the at least one handle (160', 160'') are provided for joint movement with the supports (120', 120''); - the seat surface (150) is movable relative to the supports (120', 120'') and is configured to release an open area (180) between the first and second frames (110', 110''), so that a user has space in the open area (180) to walk between the first and second frames (110', 110''); and - the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to raise the seat surface (150) to enable the user to move from a sitting to a standing position.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a seated walker having a frame assembly with a first and a second frame and having a seat surface arranged between the first and the second frame.

[0002] Currently, a large number of walking aids are manufactured to improve the mobility of patients with certain physical limitations such as advanced age, arthritis, back pain, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, etc.

[0003] With the gradual decline of physiological functions in old age, most elderly people are still able to walk but are no longer able to stand up.

[0004] Well-known walking aids can assist the elderly, the infirm, and other users with limited walking ability to stand and walk. However, since users of walking aids or other mobility aids usually lack strength in the waist and legs, they often cannot transition between sitting and standing positions. This causes many inconveniences when the user uses the mobility aids. If these people do not have the assistance of another person to stand up, their range of motion may be limited to the chair, making their daily lives and activities dependent on the care of their family members. This can seriously affect their physical and mental health and also pose a burden to their families and society.

[0005] However, if older people don't want to bother their family members and don't get up to walk, prolonged sitting and lying down leads to muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. This leads to varying degrees of resilience and stability, which further deteriorates physical fitness and creates a vicious cycle.

[0006] One task to be solved is to provide an improved mobility concept that supports people with physical limitations in a variety of movements and / or activities.

[0007] This problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent claim. Further developments are identified in the dependent claims.

[0008] The improved mobility concept is based on the idea of ​​providing a motor-operated stand-up aid in a walker with a seat, which raises the seat by a sufficient amount, for example, 10 cm to 25 cm. Alternatively or additionally, and approximately simultaneously, the stand-up aid can pivot the seat from a horizontal position, or possibly one that slopes slightly backward toward the backrest, to a position that slopes slightly forward toward the front edge of the seat, for example, 5° to 15° from the horizontal. This allows the user to be transferred into a slightly standing position, thus allowing even elderly or mobility-impaired people to easily stand up from the seat.

[0009] When the seat is essentially horizontal, the user can sit on it in a more comfortable position for resting. When the seat is raised using a lifting and / or pivoting movement, the user can stand up from the seat or lean against the seat while standing. The motorized support allows the user to transition more comfortably between sitting and standing or walking positions.

[0010] In one embodiment of a sit-on walker according to the improved mobility concept, the walker comprises a frame assembly having a first and a second frame, such as a left frame and a right frame, wherein the first and second frames each have a support, a drive assembly for the support, and an armrest attached to the support. At least one stiffening element connects the first and second frames to one another. The sit-on walker further comprises a seat surface arranged between the first and second frames, which is supported by the supports, and at least one handle for pulling or pushing the sit-on walker.

[0011] The seat, armrests, and at least one handle are designed to move together with the supports. For example, the seat, armrests, and at least one handle move when the supports move or are moved.

[0012] The seat is movable relative to the supports and is configured to release an open area between the first and second frames so that a user has space to walk between the first and second frames in the open area.

[0013] The drive arrangements are designed to raise the seat to enable the user to move from a sitting to a standing position.

[0014] The improved mobility concept achieves the specification of a seated walker that is further developed compared to the state of the art, which is characterized by the fact that it supports walking through easy maneuverability, that it additionally supports the user when standing, offers comfortable sitting and support when the user stands up and sits down, the seat does not hinder walking, the controls and handles can be operated by the user both when sitting and when standing / walking and are adjustable to the physical characteristics of the user.

[0015] In particular, the combination of a movable seat and powered supports that move the seat, armrests and handle together enables flexible use for people with limited mobility.

[0016] In some embodiments, the drive arrangements are configured to establish synchronous movement between the carriers. However, there are also embodiments in which the drive arrangements cannot establish synchronous movement between the carriers.

[0017] The synchronization of the drive arrangements can be achieved in various ways.

[0018] For this purpose, in some embodiments of the seated walker, each drive assembly comprises an electric drive configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports. Furthermore, each drive assembly comprises means for detecting drive-specific values ​​of the electric drive and means for communicating these drive-specific values ​​among themselves or for communicating these drive-specific values ​​among themselves via a central controller using wired or wireless data links in order to establish synchronization between the supports.

[0019] For example, the drive arrangements are designed to exchange speed data and / or position data of the movement of the carriers among themselves and / or with a central controller.

[0020] Alternatively, only one or at least one of the drive assemblies comprises an electric drive configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports. The drive assemblies include a mechanical synchronization mechanism, such as a drive shaft connecting the drive assemblies to ensure synchronization between the supports.

[0021] For example, the drive arrangements are designed to be switched on and off simultaneously by a central control system.

[0022] Alternatively, the at least one stiffening element of the seated walker comprises an electric drive configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports. Furthermore, each drive assembly is coupled to the electric drive via a gearing means to establish synchronization between the supports.

[0023] In further embodiments, the at least one stiffening element comprises a plurality of electric drives, for example two electric drives, each of which is connected via a gear means to kinematic units of the drive arrangements.

[0024] One form of a transmission device is an angular gear.

[0025] The gear mechanism can also be integrated into the respective electric drive. For example, an angle gear can be integrated into the electric drive. Such a drive can be referred to as a 90° drive.

[0026] Another form of a transmission means is a gearbox as defined in the applicant's patent EP 2856916 B1. Another form of a transmission means is a gearbox as defined in the application DE 10321807 A1.

[0027] In a further embodiment, an electric drive can also be configured as a linear drive that converts a rotary movement into a linear movement.

[0028] In a further embodiment, an electric drive can also be designed as a rotary drive that converts a rotary movement into a linear movement and then back into a rotary movement, for example in the sense of the above-mentioned publications DE 10321807 A1 or EP 2856916 B1.

[0029] In various embodiments, the drive arrangements are additionally configured to move the seat surface about a substantially horizontal axis from a position parallel to the floor surface to an inclined position in which a first end of the seat surface facing a back of a user sitting on the seat surface is raised.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, the drive arrangements are configured to move the seat surface along a direction of movement parallel to a walking direction of the user, for example along a substantially horizontal plane parallel to the floor surface.

[0031] In various embodiments, the drive assemblies are each configured to impart a combined lifting and pivoting movement to the support. As a result, the seat surface can be both raised and tilted.

[0032] In various embodiments, the drive assemblies are configured to synchronously adjust the angle of the supports relative to the floor surface. This also contributes to the ability to tilt the seat.

[0033] The drive arrangements are designed, for example, to tilt the seat in the range between 5° and 15° and / or to lift it in the range between 10 cm and 25 cm.

[0034] In various embodiments, at least one of the drive arrangements has an electrical storage device for supplying the drives.

[0035] In various embodiments, the at least one stiffening element has an electrical storage device for supplying the drives.

[0036] In various embodiments, the at least one stiffening element is formed from one of the following means, or a combination of the following means: a cross brace, the seat surface, a backrest.

[0037] The stiffening element can in particular be a rigid element.

[0038] In various embodiments, the at least one handle is adjustable in height and angle relative to the armrest. This allows the handle to be adapted to the user's height.

[0039] In various embodiments, at least one control unit for starting and stopping the movement of the supports is mounted on or in at least one of the armrests.

[0040] There are various variations possible when designing at least one handle, which can also be combined.

[0041] For example, the at least one handle is attached to one of the armrests, in one of the armrests, or as an extension of one of the armrests. Alternatively, the at least one handle can be attached to one of the supports. In some designs, the handle is formed by or molded into one of the armrests or part of the armrests. For example, gripping areas are formed in one or both armrests, providing a user with an easily accessible yet stable grip for pulling or pushing the walker.

[0042] The at least one handle comprises, for example, a brake lever. The at least one handle can also be pivotably mounted on the armrest. For example, the at least one handle can be pivoted at an angle of 90° to 180° relative to the armrest and can be folded laterally onto the armrest.

[0043] For example, the armrests are each attached to one of the supports. Alternatively, the armrests are each attached to the backrest.

[0044] In various embodiments, the sit-on walker includes at least two casters in the frame assembly, which are configured to roll along the floor surface. For example, each frame, such as the left and right frames, includes exactly one caster, so that when one side is lifted, the sit-on walker can be moved over the two casters. Alternatively, two casters are provided in each frame, for a total of four casters, which further simplifies movement.

[0045] The seated walker stands on castors on the floor, so that the user can move the walking aid while sitting on the seat, or while pushing or pulling the walking aid in front of or behind them.

[0046] For example, one or more of the rollers are motor-driven. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the rollers are steerable.

[0047] In various embodiments, one or more of the casters are designed as brakeable casters. Furthermore, a brake lever encompassed by the at least one handle allows selection of one of the following operating modes: parking brake, friction brake, or idle position.

[0048] For example, in the "parking brake" mode, the brake is firmly applied and the walker cannot be moved. In the "friction brake" mode, the brake is lightly applied and the walker can be moved. However, the brake is effective, for example, to slow down movement on an inclined surface. In the "free position" mode, the brake is not applied, and the walker can be pushed without any braking effect.

[0049] As already described, the seat surface is movable relative to the supports and configured to create an open area between the first and second frames. This can be implemented in various ways.

[0050] For example, the seat surface can be rotated around a pivot point and / or a rotation axis and includes a support point on each support. The resulting rotation axis can be oriented parallel or perpendicular to the user's walking direction.

[0051] For example, a second end of the seat facing the user's knee can be raised and / or lowered.

[0052] In various embodiments, the seat surface is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis of rotation, wherein the axis of rotation is oriented parallel to a walking direction of the user.

[0053] In various embodiments, the seat surface can be moved into a position with an angle between 70° and 90° to the floor surface, for example from the position parallel to the floor surface or the inclined position.

[0054] In various embodiments, the seat releases the open area through a rotating movement and / or a sliding movement.

[0055] The improved mobility concept is explained in more detail below using exemplary embodiments with reference to the drawings. Similar elements or elements with the same functions are designated by the same reference numerals. Therefore, a repeated explanation of individual elements is omitted where appropriate. The exemplary embodiments serve to explain and not to define the improved connection concept.

[0056] It shows, partly simplified: Fig. 1 an embodiment of a seated walker; Fig. 2 Details of the frame assembly of the seated walker; Fig. 3 Details of the drive arrangement of the seated walker; Fig. 4 an embodiment of a seated walker with unfolded seat with open area; Fig. 5 an embodiment of a seated walker in side view with the seat folded out; Fig. 6 an embodiment of a seated walker in side view with a shifted and tilted seat; Fig. 7 an embodiment of a seated walker in side view with horizontal seat and folded-out handle; Fig. 8 an embodiment of a seated walker in side view with lowered horizontal seat and folded handle; Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b two views of a form of an embodiment of a handle adjustable in height and inclination; Fig. 10a, Fig. 10b two views of an alternative design of a handle adjustable in height and inclination; Fig. 11a an embodiment of a seated walker with a mechanical synchronization; Fig. 11b-11e various embodiments of electric drives in or on the stiffening element (top views); Fig. 12a a schematically illustrated communication between two drive arrangements; Fig. 12b a schematic representation of communication between two drive arrangements via a central control system; Fig. 13a-13e various views of a user using the seated walker; Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b two views of a variant of a seat-walker; and Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b two views of a form of an embodiment of a seat surface shifted in height and parallel to the floor.

[0057] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a seated walker 100. The seated walker 100 comprises a left and a right armrest 130', 130''. For example, the armrests are provided with a padding and fabric cover that supports the frame 110', 110'' integrated in the armrest (see Fig. 2) surrounds and conceals.

[0058] Between the two armrests 130', 130'' there is a seat 150. Between or partially behind the armrests there is a backrest 230.

[0059] Fig. 1, for example, shows at least one control unit 250 mounted on or in one of the armrests 130', 130'', with whose control elements the drives 210', 210'' can be controlled via drive assemblies 170', 170''. The control unit 250 is provided with a transmitting device or transmitting / receiving device for wireless or wired transmission. The wireless transmission can be implemented, for example, using radio transmission, optical transmission, and / or ultrasonic transmission.

[0060] The at least one control unit 250 is provided with control elements intended for operating the drives 210', 210''. The control elements are designed, for example, as buttons. In particular, the control elements are used to raise and lower the seat.

[0061] In addition to the operating elements for adjusting the seat surface, the operating unit 250 can also include additional operating elements for additional functions, such as a reading lamp and / or heating.

[0062] The walker can also have 100 USB ports. These can be integrated into the armrest or the control unit, for example.

[0063] The walker can also have additional accessories such as lamps, storage areas, holders, etc.

[0064] The seat surface 150 extends between the backrest 230 and the armrests 130', 130'' and has a first end 310 facing a back of a user sitting on the seat surface and a second end 320 facing a knee of the user.

[0065] In another embodiment, the seat 150 is a closed seat with upholstery and fabric covering.

[0066] In another version (not shown), the seat is a toilet seat, with or without a lid.

[0067] In the example in Fig. 1, each armrest 130', 130'' has a handle 160', 160'', each of which includes a brake lever 260', 260'. In another example, only one armrest may have such a handle. Deviating from the illustration, the handle may also be attached to a support or integrated into the armrest or formed therein.

[0068] Under the seat unit, formed by the armrests 130', 130'', the seat surface 150 and the backrest 230, there are two drive assemblies 170', 170''. Two rollers 270', 270'', 280', 280'' are provided on the drive assemblies 170', 170'' each.

[0069] In the example in Fig. 1, a central control 200 is shown on or in a drive assembly 170''. In another, in Fig. 1 not shown, the control 200 can also be omitted.

[0070] In the example in the Fig. 1, the rollers closer to the first end of the seat surface 310 are steerable rollers 270', 270'', and the rollers closer to the second end of the seat surface 320 are non-steerable rollers 280', 280''. For example, the non-steerable rollers 280', 280'' have a braking device (not shown), each of which is actuated by one of the brake levers 260', 260''.

[0071] The handles 160', 160'' in the example shown in Fig. 1, each comprise brake levers 260', 260', which allow the selection of a brake operating mode from one of the following operating modes. With the 'parking brake' operating mode, the brake is firmly applied and the walker 100 cannot be moved. With the 'friction brake' operating mode, the brake is lightly applied and the walker 100 can be moved. However, the brake acts, for example, to slow movement on an inclined plane. With the 'idle position' operating mode, the brake is not applied and the walker can be pushed without braking.

[0072] The rollers 270', 270'', 280', 280'' of the frame assembly are configured to roll on a floor surface. Specifically, they are wheels.

[0073] In a further embodiment, one or more of the rollers 270', 270'', 280', 280'' are motor-driven, in particular to facilitate movement, for example, over door thresholds.

[0074] The Fig. Figure 2 shows the structure of the frame assembly with a first and a second frame 110', 110'', for example a left frame and a right frame, wherein the first and the second frame each comprise a carrier 120', 120'', a drive arrangement 170', 170'' for the carrier and an armrest 130', 130'' attached to the carrier (see Fig. 1). Alternatively, the armrests can also be attached to the backrest 230.

[0075] Each frame 110', 110'' is connected, for example, by two screws to a pivot lever 175', 175'' of the drive arrangement 170', 170''.

[0076] Furthermore, the example in the Fig. 2 several stiffening elements 140', 140'' that connect the first and second frames 110', 110'', for example, cross braces. Backrest 230 and seat 150 are further examples of stiffening elements.

[0077] The seat is in the Fig. 2 not shown to better identify pivot points 290', 290'' and support points 300. The seat in the example is in the Fig. 2 is rotatable about the pivot points 290', 290'' and has support points 300 on each support. In Fig. 2 only one support point 300 is visible.

[0078] In the example in the Fig. 2, the seat surface 150 is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis between the pivot points 290', 290'', wherein the rotation axis is perpendicular to a walking direction 190, 195. For example, after rotation, the seat surface 150 is parallel to the backrest 230.

[0079] In a further embodiment not shown, the seat surface is rotatable about a horizontal axis, wherein the rotation axis is parallel to a walking direction 190, 195. For example, after rotation, the seat surface 150 is parallel to one of the armrests 130', 130'' or to the associated frame 110', 110''.

[0080] In a further embodiment, the seat surface 150 can also be divided and a part of the seat surface can be rotated towards the right armrest 130' and a part of the seat surface can be rotated towards the left armrest 130''.

[0081] The support point 300 serves to support the seat surface 150. The support point 300 is connected to the support 120', 120'', so that the seat surface 150 is supported by the supports 120', 120''.

[0082] The Fig. The example shown in Figure 2 has a handle for pulling or pushing the seated walker 100 per armrest 130', 130'', which is attached to the armrest 230. In another embodiment, only one armrest includes a handle.

[0083] Seat 150, armrests 130', 130'', and handles 160', 160'' are designed to move in unison with supports 120', 120''. Each support 120', 120'' is pivoted by a pivot lever 175', 175''. Since the armrests and handles are connected to the supports, the supports, armrests, and handles always move in unison with the movement of the pivot levers 175', 175''.

[0084] The Fig. Figure 2 shows an example of a handle 160', 160' adjustable in height and inclination relative to the armrest 130', 130'. The handle 160', 160' has a screw plate that can be fixed with screws to the frame 110', 110', which is integrated into the armrest 130', 130'. The frame 110', 110' has several screw connections 240 for adjusting the height of the handle 160', 160' at different heights in order to adapt the handle to the user's height. Fig. 9a, Fig. 9b, Fig. 10a, Fig. 10b shows further examples of height-adjustable or tilt-adjustable handles.

[0085] The Fig. Figure 3 shows an exemplary structure for a drive arrangement 170', 170'' with a kinematics unit 178, which is moved by a drive 210', 210'', for example, a linear drive. The linear movement of the linear drive is converted by the kinematics unit 178 into a lifting and pivoting movement of the pivot lever 175', 175''. The drive assemblies 170', 170'' thus impart a combined lifting and pivoting movement to a support 120', 120''. The support 120', 120'' attached to the pivot lever 175', 175'' transmits the movement to the seat surface 150, backrest 230, and armrests 130', 130'' connected to the support. For example, this is a parallel kinematics system with four joints and two rods.

[0086] In a further embodiment, an electrical storage device 330 is integrated in at least one drive arrangement 170', 170'', which is required or can be used, among other things, to supply the drive 210', 210''.

[0087] In a further embodiment, an electrical storage device 330 is integrated in at least one of the stiffening elements 140', which is required or can be used, among other things, to supply the drive 210', 210'' (see Fig. 11d and Fig. 11e).

[0088] The Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 show a seated walker 100 in various views in a position in which a user can push or pull the seated walker 100, or in which a user can stand and be supported by the seated walker 100 or the backrest 230 or the seat surface 150. The user pushes the seated walker in the walking direction 190 and pulls the seated walker in the walking direction 195.

[0089] The seat surface 150 is movable relative to the supports 120', 120'' and configured to expose an open area 180 between the first and second frames 110', 110'', so that a user has space in the open area 180 for walking or standing between the first and second frames 110', 110''. For example, the seat surface 150 exposes the open area 180 through a rotating movement and / or a sliding movement.

[0090] In the Fig. 4 and Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the second end 320 of the seat 150 facing a knee of the user is raised.

[0091] For example, the seat surface 150 can be moved from a position parallel to the floor surface or an inclined position to a position at an angle between 70° and 90° to the floor surface. In particular, the seat surface 150, similar to a cinema seat, rests in a plane parallel to the backrest 230 or against the backrest 230.

[0092] In another embodiment (not shown), the second end of the seat surface 320 facing a knee of the user is lowered.

[0093] For example, the seat surface 150 can be moved from a position parallel to the floor surface or an inclined position to a position at an angle between 70° and 90° to the floor surface. In particular, the seat surface 150 lies in a plane parallel to the backrest 230 or against the backrest 230. In particular, the seat surface 150 is pivoted downward and lies in a plane parallel to the backrest 230 and below the backrest 230.

[0094] The Fig. Figure 6 shows a further embodiment in which the seat surface 150 exposes the open area 180 through a combined rotating and sliding movement. The seat surface 150 is pushed under the backrest 230 and then pivoted downward. Again, the seat surface 150 can be moved from a position parallel to the floor surface or an inclined position to a position at an angle of between 70° and 90° to the floor surface.

[0095] The Fig. Figure 7 shows a position of the seated walker 100 in which a user can more easily stand up from the seat 150 or sit down on the seat 150. In both cases, the user or the seat 150 is moved by motor assistance from a position oriented substantially parallel to the floor surface to an inclined position and vice versa.

[0096] The drive assemblies 170', 170'' are configured, for example, to move the seat surface 150 about a substantially horizontal axis from a position parallel to the floor surface to an inclined position in which a first end of the seat surface 310 facing a back of a user sitting on the seat surface is raised to enable the user to move from a sitting to a standing position.

[0097] The seat is tilted between 5° and 15° and raised between 10 cm and 25 cm. The drive arrangements 170', 170'' are controlled by a Fig. 3 is designed to tilt the seat 150 in the range between 5° and 15° and to lift it in the range between 10 cm and 25 cm.

[0098] The handles 160' and 160'' are raised and tilted together with the armrests 130' and 130'', the backrest 230, and the seat 150. The distance of the handles from the user's hands is therefore not changed by the lifting and pivoting movement. The user can hold onto the handles when standing up or sitting down and operate the brake levers in the same way as when sitting down.

[0099] The Fig. 8 shows a walking-sitting carriage 100 in a position in which the user can sit on the seat 150.

[0100] The seat surface 150 is in a position parallel to the floor surface or a position slightly inclined towards the backrest 230.

[0101] In a further embodiment, the handle 160', 160'' is pivotally mounted on the armrest 130', 130'' to enable the user to move close to a piece of furniture, for example a table or a box.

[0102] For example, the handle 160', 160'' can be swiveled at an angle of 90-180° to the armrest 130', 130'' and, in particular, can be folded sideways onto the armrest 130', 130''.

[0103] The Fig. 8 shows such a handle 160', 160'' folded onto the armrest.

[0104] The brake function remains intact when the handle is folded.

[0105] The Fig. 9a and Fig. Figure 9b shows a configuration for an armrest 130', 130'' with a height-adjustable and tilt-adjustable handle 160', 160''. The handle can be pivoted up and down around a horizontal axis. For example, the handle has three locking positions: bottom, middle, and top. Fig. 9a shows the handle in the locking position in the middle and Fig. 9b shows the handle in the top locking position.

[0106] The handle 160', 160'' also includes a brake lever (not shown).

[0107] The Fig. 10a and Fig. 10b shows another embodiment of an armrest 130', 130'' with a height-adjustable and tilt-adjustable handle 160', 160''. The handle can also be pivoted up and down about a horizontal axis. The handle 160', 160'' is hinged to the armrest 130', 130'' and has various locking positions.

[0108] The frame 110', 110'' has several screw connections 240 for adjusting the height of the handle 160', 160'' at different heights in order to adapt the handle to the user's height.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiments, the drive arrangements 170', 170'' are configured to establish synchronization between the supports 120', 120'' in order to prevent the ends of the seat surface 150 facing the armrests from assuming different heights and the user sitting on an inclined seat surface 150.

[0110] For example, the drive arrangements are designed to adjust the angle of the supports 120', 120'' with respect to the ground surface synchronously with each other, in particular simultaneously and at the same speed.

[0111] However, there may also be embodiments in which the drive arrangements cannot establish synchronization between the carriers or are not specifically designed for synchronization.

[0112] A form of synchronization between the beams 120', 120'' is shown in the Fig. 11a.

[0113] The seated walker here has two drive assemblies 170', 170'', each of which is configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports 120', 120''. The first of the two drive assemblies comprises an electric drive 210', which is configured to move one of the supports 120', 120'' (in the Fig. 11a (concealed by the armrests). The drive assemblies 170', 170'' are connected via a drive shaft 220, which transmits the movement of the drive 210' of the first of the two drive assemblies 170', 170'' to the second of the two drive assemblies 170', 170''. The drive shaft 220 mechanically synchronizes the lifting and pivoting of the supports 120', 120'' of the two drive assemblies 170', 170'' in order to establish synchronization between the supports 120', 120''.

[0114] The Fig. 11b shows an electric drive 210' mounted on or in a stiffening element 140'. For example, the drive 210' comprises a continuous shaft connected via gear means 212', 212' to the kinematic units 178', 178'' of the drive assemblies 170', 170''. Synchronization is ensured here by the continuous shaft.

[0115] Alternatively, a stiffening element 140' may also comprise a plurality of electric drives 210', 210'', for example two electric drives, each of which is connected via a gear means 212', 212'' to the kinematic units 178', 178'' of the drive arrangements 170', 170'' (as in Fig. 11c). The gear means 212', 212' can also be integrated into the respective drive, in the sense of a 90° motor (as in Fig. 11d).

[0116] The at least one electric drive 210', 210'' can be arranged on or in at least one stiffening element 140'.

[0117] The at least one electric drive 210', 210'' can be arranged longitudinally or transversely to a stiffening element 140'.

[0118] Another manifestation is the Fig. 11e. Two electric drives 210', 210'' are mounted on or in a stiffening element 140' such that the drive axis is parallel to the main alignment of the drive assembly 170', 170''. A gearing means is omitted. In contrast to Fig. 11b-11d, the at least one stiffening element 140' is not arranged between the drive assemblies, but the drive assemblies 170', 170'' are arranged at right angles to the at least one stiffening element 140'.

[0119] The Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b each show a form of a schematically illustrated communication in a seated walker 100, in which each drive arrangement 170', 170'' has an electric drive 210', 210''.

[0120] The Fig. 12a and Fig. 12b differ in that in Fig. 12a the drive arrangements are interconnected via a data link 215 and that in Fig. 12b the drive arrangements are connected to each other with two data links 215' and 215'' via a central controller 200.

[0121] The data paths 215, 215', 215'' serve, for example, for the communication or transmission of drive-specific values ​​of the electric drives 210', 210''. The data paths 215, 215', 215'' can be wired or wireless. Drive-specific values ​​are, for example, speed data and / or position data measured by the drive arrangements 170', 170'' using means 205', 205'' for detecting drive-specific values, for example, sensors.

[0122] For example, the data links are bidirectional.

[0123] The drive arrangements have means for communicating these drive-specific values, which are designed to send and receive data.

[0124] To establish synchronization between the carriers 120', 120'', for example, in a first embodiment, the position data and / or speed data are exchanged between the drive assemblies 170', 170'' and compared by the drive assemblies. For example, the faster drive assembly can reduce its speed. Likewise, the slower drive assembly can increase its speed.

[0125] In the version without central control 200 (see Fig. 12a), for example, each drive arrangement 170', 170'' comprises its own drive control for its own drive 210', 210''.

[0126] In a further embodiment, a central control 200 can be mounted in or on one of the stiffening elements 140', 140'' (see Fig. 11d).

[0127] For example, an initial communication takes place between the drive arrangements, which determines which of the drive controls operates as the master control and which as the slave control, which follows the control instructions of the master control, in particular the speed and / or position information.

[0128] In the version with central control 200 (see Fig. 12b) the drive arrangements 170', 170'' follow the control instructions of the central control, in particular the speed and / or position information.

[0129] A control instruction may, for example, be an instruction to start and / or stop the drives 210', 210'' simultaneously.

[0130] Both in terms of Fig. 12a as well as in the form of Fig. 12b, the communication of, for example, target positions, target speed, actual positions, and / or actual speed takes place via the data links 215, 215', 215''.

[0131] The communication of the drive-specific values ​​among each other serves to synchronize the supports, for example, by ensuring that both drives have the same adjustment speed, so that the seat surface does not tilt. If, for example, the motor of one adjustment drive has a lower speed due to higher load than the motor of the other adjustment drive, the speed of the faster motor is typically reduced by appropriate measures of the central controller 200, for example, by reducing the speed of the faster motor using PWM.

[0132] In a further embodiment, the synchronization of the supports 120', 120'' can be achieved by simply switching the drives 210', 210'' on and off simultaneously. For example, the supports 120', 120'' are initially brought into the same position by the central control 200, or when the supports 120', 120'' are tilted, and then switched on and off simultaneously.

[0133] Each drive arrangement 170', 170'' is equipped, for example, with a microprocessor or microcomputer and has a control program. All control programs are configured to communicate with each other via the bidirectional data links 215, 215', 215'' or to communicate with each other via a central controller 200.

[0134] This allows data to be exchanged between the drives 210', 210''.

[0135] All drive arrangements 170', 170'' and all control programs can be constructed identically.

[0136] The Fig. 13a to 13e show different views of a user 105 using the seated walker 100: Fig. Figure 13a shows the seated walker 100 in the sitting position. The user 105 is in a sitting position on the seated walker 100. The knee angle is approximately 90°. Fig. 13b and Fig. 13c each show a view during the raising of the seat from the sitting position to the standing position of the seat-walker 100. As soon as the standing position in Fig. 13c is reached, the knee angle is significantly less than 90°. User 105 requires less force to stand upright. Fig. Figure 13d shows the user 105 standing. The seated walker 100 prevents the user from falling backward (when the brake is engaged). For example, this position can be useful when standing at a kitchen stove.

[0137] In the position of the seat-walker 100 in Fig. 13d, the user 105 can pull the seated walker 100. For example, the user 105 has folded away the seat to free up the open area and thus gain more space for walking.

[0138] When the user 105 turns around, he can move the seat-walker 100 as shown in Fig. 13e. For example, user 105 has folded away the seat to create the open area and thus gain more space for walking.

[0139] For example, the seat 150 is between 30cm and 40cm wide, the height of the seat 150 to the floor surface is between 40cm and 50cm and the diameter of the castors is less than 15cm, for example less than 10cm.

[0140] For example, at least one handle is located at a height of 75-90cm above the floor surface and the armrest is located at a height of 20-28cm above the seat.

[0141] The Fig. 14a and Fig. 14b show two views of an embodiment of a seated walker 100 with a handle 160' mounted as an extension of the armrest 130'.

[0142] The handle 160' can be moved around a joint 340 from a lower position to an upper position, with the upper position of the handle 160' being in extension of the armrest 130'. Fig. 14a shows the handle 160' in the lower position. Fig. 14b shows the handle 160' in the upper position.

[0143] The Fig. 15a and Fig. 15b show two views of an embodiment of a seated walker 100 in which the drive assemblies 170', 170'' move the seat 150 along a substantially horizontal plane parallel to the floor surface. The seat is thereby raised by a combined movement and displaced parallel to the floor surface (see arrows in Fig. 15b).

[0144] The at least one stiffening element 140' is, for example, interchangeable. For example, there are versions of the at least one stiffening element 140' with electric drives of varying strengths in order to support different load situations. Alternatively or additionally, there are versions with electric storage of varying strengths. Alternatively, there are versions in which the stiffening element is designed without an electric drive and without an electric storage. Due to the interchangeability of at least one stiffening element, the walker with seat can be subsequently adapted to changed usage situations or load situations. This results in the upgradeability of the walker with seat. List of reference symbols 100 seated walkers 105 users 110', 110'' frame 120', 120'' carrier 130', 130'' armrest 140', 140'' stiffening element 150 seats 160', 160'' handle 170', 170'' drive arrangement 175', 175'' swivel lever 178, 178', 178'' kinematic unit 180 open area 190, 195 walking direction 200 central control 205', 205'' means of detection 210', 210'' electric drive 212', 212'' Gearbox 215, 215', 215'' data link 220 drive shaft 230 backrest 240 screw connection 250 control unit 260', 260'' brake lever 270', 270'' steerable casters 280', 280'' brakeable castors 290', 290'' pivot point 300 support point 310 first end of the seat 320 second end of the seat 330 electrical storage 340 joint 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] EP 2856916 B1 [0026, 0028] DE 10321807 A1 [0026, 0028]

Claims

[1] Seated walker (100) comprising - a frame assembly having a first and a second frame (110', 110''), in particular a left frame and a right frame, wherein the first and the second frame each have a carrier (120', 120''), a drive assembly (170', 170'') for the carrier and an armrest (130', 130''); - at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') connecting the first and second frames (110', 110'') to each other; - a seat surface (150) arranged between the first and second frames (110', 110'') and supported by the supports (120', 120''); - at least one handle (160', 160'') for pulling or pushing the seated walker (100); wherein - the seat (150), the armrests (130', 130'') and the at least one handle (160', 160'') are provided for joint movement with the supports (120', 120''); - the seat surface (150) is movable relative to the supports (120', 120'') and is configured to release an open area (180) between the first and second frames (110', 110''), so that a user has space in the open area (180) to walk between the first and second frames (110', 110''); and - the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to raise the seat surface (150) to enable the user to move from a sitting to a standing position. [2] A seated walker (100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to establish synchronization between the supports (120', 120''). [3] Seated walker (100) according to claim 2, wherein - each drive arrangement (170', 170'') comprises an electric drive (210', 210'') which is configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports (120', 120''); and - each drive arrangement (170', 170'') comprises means for detecting drive-specific values ​​(205', 205'') of the electric drive (210', 210'') and means for communicating these drive-specific values ​​with one another or for communicating these drive-specific values ​​with one another via a central controller (200) by means of wired or wireless data links (215, 215', 215'') in order to establish synchronization between the carriers (120', 120''). [4] Seated walker (100) according to claim 3, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to exchange speed data and / or position data of the movement of the carriers (120', 120'') with each other and / or with a central controller (200). [5] Seated walker (100) according to claim 2, wherein - at least one of the drive arrangements (170', 170'') comprises an electric drive (210', 210'') which is configured to lift and / or pivot one of the supports (120', 120''); and - the drive arrangements (170', 170'') have a mechanical synchronization (220), in particular a drive shaft (220) which connects the drive arrangements (170', 170'') in order to establish synchronization between the carriers (120', 120''). [6] Seated walker (100) according to claim 2, wherein - the at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') comprises an electric drive (210) which is designed to lift and / or pivot one of the supports (120', 120''); and - the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are coupled to the electric drive by means of a gear means in order to establish synchronization between the carriers (120', 120''). [7] Seated walker (100) according to claim 2, wherein - the at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') comprises two electric drives (210', 210'') which are designed to lift and / or pivot one of the supports (120', 120''); and - the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are each coupled to one of the electric drives in order to establish synchronization between the carriers (120', 120''). [8] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to be switched on and off simultaneously by a central controller (200). [9] Seated walker (100) according to claim 2, wherein - the at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') comprises an electric drive (210) which is designed to lift and / or pivot one of the supports (120', 120''); and - the at least one electric drive (210', 210'') is arranged longitudinally or transversely to the at least one stiffening element (140', 140''). [10] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the electric drives (210', 210'') are designed as linear drives, as 90° drives or as rotary drives. [11] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the drive assemblies (170', 170'') are further configured to move the seat surface (150) about a substantially horizontal axis from a position parallel to the floor surface to an inclined position in which a first end (310) of the seat surface (150) facing a back of a user sitting on the seat surface is raised. [12] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are further configured to move the seat surface (150) along a direction of movement parallel to a walking direction (190) of the user, in particular along a substantially horizontal plane parallel to the ground surface. [13] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the drive assemblies (170', 170'') are each arranged to impart a combined lifting and pivoting movement to the carrier (120', 120''). [14] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to synchronously adjust the angle of the supports (120', 120'') relative to the floor surface. [15] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one stiffening element (140', 140'') is formed from one of the following means, or a combination of the following means: a cross brace, the seat surface (150), a backrest (230). [16] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the at least one handle (160', 160'') is adjustable in height and / or inclination relative to the armrest (130', 130'') in order to adapt the handle (160', 160'') to a body size of the user. [17] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the at least one handle (160', 160'') is mounted on one of the armrests (130', 130''), in one of the armrests (130', 130''), or in extension of one of the armrests (130', 130''). [18] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein at least one operating unit (250) for starting and stopping the movement of the supports (120', 120'') is mounted on or in at least one of the armrests (130', 130''). [19] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the at least one handle (160', 160'') comprises a brake lever (260', 260''). [20] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the at least one handle (160', 160'') is pivotally mounted on the armrest (130', 130''). [21] Seated walker (100) according to claim 20, wherein the at least one handle (160', 160'') is pivotable at an angle of 90° to 180° to the armrest (130', 130''), in particular is foldable laterally onto the armrest (130', 130''). [22] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 21, comprising at least two rollers (270', 270'', 280', 280'') in the frame assembly configured to be rollable on the floor surface. [23] A seated walker (100) according to claim 22, wherein one or more of the rollers (270', 270'', 280', 280'') are motor-driven. [24] A seated walker (100) according to claim 22 or 23, wherein one or more of the rollers (270', 270) are steerable. [25] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 22 to 24, wherein - one or more of the rollers are designed as brakeable rollers (280', 280''); and - a brake lever (260' 260'') encompassed by the at least one handle (160', 160'') allows the selection of an operating mode from one of the following operating modes: Parking brake, friction brake, neutral position. [26] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 25, wherein the seat surface (150) is rotatable about a pivot point (290', 290'') and comprises a support point (300) on each support (120', 120''). [27] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 26, wherein the seat surface (150) is rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis of rotation, wherein the axis of rotation is oriented parallel to a walking direction (190) of the user. [28] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 27, wherein a second end (320) of the seat surface facing a knee of the user can be raised and / or lowered. [29] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 28, wherein the seat surface (150) can be moved into a position at an angle between 70° and 90° to the floor surface. [30] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 29, wherein the seat surface (150) releases the open area (180) by a rotational movement and / or a sliding movement. [31] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 30, wherein the drive arrangements (170', 170'') are arranged to tilt the seat surface (150) in the range between 5° and 15° and / or to lift it in the range between 10 cm and 25 cm. [32] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 31, wherein at least one of the drive arrangements (170', 170'') has an electrical storage device (330) for supplying the drives (210', 210''). [33] Seated walker (100) according to one of claims 1 to 32, wherein at least one of the stiffening elements (140', 140'') has an electrical storage device (330) for supplying the drives (210', 210''). [34] A seated walker (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 33, wherein at least one of the stiffening elements (140', 140'') is replaceable.

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