Support module

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a support module for attachment to medical and / or orthopedic devices, as well as a walking aid. Such medical or orthopedic devices can be, for example, forearm crutches, walking sticks, grasping aids, but also medical furniture.

[0002] From DE 10 2016 011 593 A1, a modified walking aid is known, featuring a support located in a lower section. The support can be extended, in particular by means of a push button, and retracted by means of an additional lever. Inside the walking aid, pressing the push button displaces a ball bearing, which causes a vertically mounted compression spring to exert a downward stroke on a gear via a forked section. The gear meshes with a stationary rack, which is moved upwards in such a way that the stroke on a push-pull rod is doubled in the form of an upward pulling force. When the lever is pulled upwards, the ball bearing is returned to its initial position and the compression spring is re-tensioned.In this process, a tensile force is exerted on the aforementioned components of the gearing, whereby the support is returned to its folded state by means of compressive stress on the pull and push rod.

[0003] Furthermore, EP 1 136 054 A1 discloses another modified walking aid in which a lever in the handle area of ​​the walking aid axially displaces a rack in the foot area of ​​the walking aid via an internal linkage. The rack engages with the toothed ends of two external support legs. The support legs are pivotally mounted to the walking aid at the foot end. When the lever is pulled upwards, the rack also moves upwards, pivoting the support legs around the pivot point from a starting position to a supported position. When the lever is then pushed downwards, the rack is also moved downwards and the support legs are pivoted back into position.

[0004] A modified walking aid is also known from DE 298 066 807 U1, in which a pulling force can be transmitted to the support legs by means of a cable pulley activated by a lever. For this purpose, the cable pulley is attached to a fastening element, which is connected on its underside to another cable strand for each support leg. These cable strands are guided through guide channels to a pulley, with which the support legs are also operatively connected. When the lever is pulled upwards, the pulleys are set into rotation. This exerts a corresponding rotational movement on the support legs, causing them to pivot outwards.

[0005] From DE 20 2013 002 424 U1, a walking aid with a standing aid is known, which has two auxiliary supports that can be moved from a walking position to a support position angled relative to the walking aid by actuating a lever arranged on a handle. In the walking position, the auxiliary supports are positioned parallel to the walking aid and resting against it. By actuating the lever, a mechanism in the handle of the walking aid generates a tensile force, which is transmitted via a Bowden cable or a steel rod to a piston-cylinder system attached to the walking aid. The piston is connected to the auxiliary supports in such a way that actuating the lever causes the auxiliary supports to be moved.

[0006] Furthermore, DE 20 2016 006 179 U1 discloses a walking aid which has an upper release mechanism and a lower mechanism. These are coupled to each other via a pull and push rod, with auxiliary supports also arranged on a sliding ring on the lower mechanism. When a lever located on the release mechanism is pressed towards the lower mechanism, the pull and push rod transmits this force to the sliding ring. This, together with the auxiliary supports, is pressed further downwards, with the auxiliary supports being spread out over the ground into a support position. A compression spring can also be provided, which pre-tensions the lever towards the support position. If the lever is manually pulled upwards, the sliding ring is pulled upwards, and the auxiliary supports are simultaneously folded back in.

[0007] Furthermore, DE 10 2018 001 699 A1 discloses a walking aid with motor-operated adjustable support legs. The walking aid is essentially designed as a hollow profile, within which a tubular motor is arranged. This motor, via gear elements, extends and retracts support legs located on a lower walking section. The tubular motor can be activated by a release button located in the handle area of ​​the walking aid. The support legs have feet, and the pivoting mechanism ensures that, in a rest position where the support legs rest against the hollow profile, the feet point towards the handle area.

[0008] Finally, US patent 2017 / 0216125 A1 discloses a walking aid with adjustable and swiveling support legs. These support legs can be extended or retracted either automatically, depending on the surface conditions detected by a sensor, or via a user-activated control mechanism. Such a control mechanism could, for example, be voice activation, for which a microphone with a corresponding switching unit could be integrated into the walking aid. The control mechanism could also be activated via a switch or other pressure-sensitive buttons, pads, or similar devices.

[0009] Traditional standing aids offer limited flexibility in terms of their compatibility with various walking aids. Their mechanisms are often so complex that they are sometimes unsuitable for retrofitting to existing walking aids. The use of complex mechanical or even electrical systems to pivot the supports is not only costly but also makes these standing aids prone to malfunction. Furthermore, traditional standing aids are often heavier than conventional walking aids. These disadvantages can therefore be considered safety deficiencies related to handling and functionality.

[0010] The invention is therefore based on the objective of providing a support module and a walking aid which have a simple design and are flexible and safe in use.

[0011] The invention solves the problem with a support module according to claim 1 and a walking aid according to claim 15. The dependent claims relate to advantageous embodiments.

[0012] The support module according to the invention for external mounting on medical and / or orthopedic devices comprises an actuating unit with an actuating element. Within the scope of the invention, the actuating unit can include a housing part on which the actuating element can be mounted. The housing part can have a section that is at least partially sleeve-shaped.

[0013] The support module according to the invention further comprises a support unit axially spaced from the actuating unit, with a housing element and a sliding element axially displaceable within the housing element. A plurality of pivotable support legs are pivotally connected to the sliding element. According to the invention, the housing element can have an outer shell and an inner sleeve, which are spaced apart from each other by a gap, thus forming an interior space. The sliding element can be arranged in this gap. The housing element can also have openings through which the support legs project and are connected to the sliding element inside the housing element.

[0014] According to the invention, a connecting element is further provided which is operatively connected at a first end to the actuating element and at a second end to the sliding element such that, by actuating the actuating element, the sliding element is moved axially relative to the housing element, thereby pivoting the support legs from a rest position to a supported position, the connecting element being designed as a direct connection between the actuating element and the sliding element. Within the scope of the invention, the support legs can be pivoted out or in indirectly via an axial movement of the sliding element, which is induced by the actuating element via the connecting element. The pivoting process can be referred to as retraction, with the support legs automatically pivoting in as soon as a user exerts a force on them.This force can be predefined and / or adjustable as a threshold value.

[0015] A characteristic feature of the support module according to the invention is that the connecting element is designed to be length-adjustable, so that the axial distance of the actuating unit from the support unit can be adjusted.

[0016] The support module according to the invention offers increased flexibility with regard to its possible arrangement on various medical and / or orthopedic devices. The support module can also be quickly adapted to different device sizes. Its simple design even allows untrained users (laypersons) to make the aforementioned adjustments. The support module is also suitable for retrofitting to existing devices. Furthermore, its simple design makes the support module according to the invention lightweight and inexpensive, without compromising the highest level of safety. Compared to similar mechanisms of known standing aids, the support module according to the invention proves to be advantageous.

[0017] If the support module is attached to a walking aid, for example, its simple and therefore lightweight design supports and improves the maintenance of essential functional properties of that walking aid. In particular, the center of gravity of the device, i.e., the walking aid, is not adversely affected by the support module. Thus, for example, the user's gait remains natural, which in turn can positively support the rehabilitation process.

[0018] It can be advantageous if the actuating unit comprises a housing that has at least one section designed as a sleeve or a portion thereof. If the support module is intended for installation or retrofitting on, for example, a walking aid or similar device, the actuating unit can be attached to the typically round bar profile of the walking aid or similar device by means of such a section. It is possible, for example, to slide the actuating unit completely onto the bar profile or to press it on using a clip-on mechanism. It is also possible for the housing of the actuating unit to have an open section that can be wrapped around such a bar profile and then clamped to it. Such a clamping mechanism can be implemented, for example, using a clamp, a screw connection, or similar.An open section on the housing of the actuating unit has the further advantage that it can be easily adapted to various characteristic lengths (diameter, diagonal, etc.) of the respective medical and / or orthopedic device.

[0019] The operating unit can be positioned, for example, in the head section of a walking aid. The head section, as with other medical-orthopedic devices, can be understood as that part of the device which is regularly intended for manual interaction with the user. In the case of a walking aid, this is, for example, the part to which the user holds on. It can be advantageous for the operating element to be located within easy reach of such a part of the device.

[0020] It can be advantageous if the support unit can be arranged or retrofitted to a medical and / or orthopedic device in a similar manner. Since the support unit must meet special stability requirements, it can also be advantageous if the housing element has a section that can, for example, encompass and / or clamp onto a rod profile of the aforementioned type. The housing element and the sliding element can preferably be rotationally symmetrical. The housing element can, for example, have an inner sleeve that is connected to an outer shell of the housing element via a cover and / or a base section. The sliding element can, in particular, be arranged in the corresponding gap between the inner sleeve and the outer shell.In particular, but not exclusively, a clamping mechanism may be provided in the area of ​​the cover section of the housing element. As described above, such clamping mechanisms can preferably be implemented by clamping two flexible sections spaced apart by screws.

[0021] If such an inner sleeve is provided for the housing element and a sleeve-like or partially sleeve-like section is provided for, for example, the housing of the actuating unit, these are preferably arranged coaxially along the axial direction on a medical and / or orthopedic device. Then, for example, the connecting element can also be arranged parallel to the axial direction, at least during use on the corresponding device. Furthermore, the actuating element can preferably also be mounted so as to be slidably displaceable along the axial direction.

[0022] The support unit can then be further positioned on a corresponding foot section of, for example, a walking aid, or, in the case of a gripping aid, in the area of ​​the gripping arms. The foot section can be understood as that part of the foot of a walking aid which, during normal use, is typically placed on the ground. Thus, the operating unit can be considered, for example, the upper part, and the support unit the lower part, of the support module.

[0023] The number of support legs on the sliding element or as part of the support unit is preferably in the range of three to five. The support legs are particularly preferably arranged evenly around a walking aid coupled to the support module. If, for example, the sliding element has a round cross-section, and there are three support legs, these are preferably arranged at intervals of 120° from each other on the sliding element. With four support legs, the preferred interval can be 90°, and so on. The advantage of such an even arrangement is, on the one hand, the even distribution of forces. On the other hand, such an arrangement ensures a secure footing for the medical and / or orthopedic device, e.g., for a walking aid as described above. At the same time, the number of support legs can be designed to balance stability with the cost / weight of the support module, for example.A break-even point must be considered, which experience shows is typically around four to five support legs. While it can be advantageous to manufacture as many components of the support module as possible from a lightweight and stable plastic (e.g., via 3D printing, injection molding, sintering, etc.), the support legs, in particular, may be preferably made of metal due to the increased mechanical stress. However, the use of appropriately strong plastics is also conceivable.

[0024] To further reduce weight without compromising stability, the support legs could, for example, be profiled, at least in sections. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the support legs could each be made of an elongated metallic material, such as perforated sheet metal, with its long sides folded up.

[0025] The support legs preferably have support feet at one end facing away from the support unit in the support position. At the ends of the support legs opposite the support feet, they are connected to the sliding element. The support feet can be made of a material with a high coefficient of friction and can contribute to the stability of a corresponding device.

[0026] As described above, the support legs are indirectly moved from their rest position to the support position via the connecting element and the sliding element by actuating the actuating element of the actuating unit. This can also be subsumed under the concept of the movement mechanics of the support module. In the rest position, the support legs are preferably arranged such that they are essentially parallel to the axial direction. Optionally, support feet arranged on the support legs as described above can then point towards the actuating unit. In the support position, the support legs are preferably spread apart from the sliding element or the housing element in such a way that, during intended use, all support legs can have equal contact with a flat surface.

[0027] To support the aforementioned mechanical interaction between the actuating element and the support legs, it can be advantageous to include a force storage device, such as a coil spring or similar, as a further component of the actuating unit. This force storage device can then, for example, be located within the housing of the actuating unit. Preferably, the force storage device can be arranged within the actuating unit in such a way that the support legs experience a force, sometimes continuously, in the direction of their rest position. This allows the force storage device to, for example, facilitate the user's return of the support legs from the supported position to the rest position. Furthermore, the force storage device, or an additional second force storage device, can provide support for the force required to initiate the movement mechanism, i.e., the force with which the actuating element must be operated to move the support legs from the rest position to the supported position.In both cases, the energy storage capacity of the actuating unit can influence the speed at which the support legs are extended or retracted.

[0028] To pivot the support legs, it is possible, for example, to apply a compressive force to the support legs, which are spread apart from the sliding element or the housing element as described above. This force is preferably applied uniformly, but possibly also only partially. The compressive force is directed opposite to the axial direction in which the sliding element was moved when the support legs were pivoted out. In this case, the support legs, which are angled relative to the sliding element, are intended to transfer the compressive force to the sliding element in a lever-like manner. The sliding element preferably has only the aforementioned degree of freedom of movement back along the axial direction available to it. According to the invention, the compressive force on the support legs, or optionally on the support feet, causes the sliding element to be moved back to its previous position corresponding to the rest position of the support legs.The sliding element can preferentially return the support legs to their resting position.

[0029] It can therefore be advantageous if the sliding element has means to ensure that the aforementioned interaction between the sliding element and the support legs during pivoting in and out is carried out reliably and reproducibly in a uniform manner. According to a preferred embodiment, the sliding element therefore has a guide mechanism for guiding the support legs from the rest position to the supported position. Particularly preferably, the guide mechanism also acts in the reverse direction, i.e., to guide the support legs from the supported position to the rest position. The guide mechanism can, for example, be operatively connected to at least one support leg in such a way that a displacement of the sliding element along the axial direction forces a path of movement onto the corresponding support leg at, for example, a bearing point.It is also possible that this guided support leg is effectively coupled to the other support legs, so that they too follow the path of movement. Preferably, all support legs are each mounted separately in their own guide within the guide mechanism. This could, for example, further reduce the susceptibility to errors.

[0030] To ensure the safe and reliable operation of the support unit, it can be further advantageous if the support legs have means for a secure operative connection with the guide mechanism. According to a further preferred embodiment, the support legs therefore have raised connecting sections which are operatively connected to the guide mechanism. The connecting sections are preferably identical on all support legs. The connecting sections can, for example, be designed as local, in particular bilateral, thickenings of the otherwise uniformly designed support legs, wherein the thickenings of the respective support legs are each pivotally and movably mounted in a part of a corresponding guide of the guide mechanism. The connecting sections can, for example, be cylindrical or barrel-shaped on each support leg.be formed at the end of the support legs which is opposite the end of the corresponding support leg on which, as mentioned above, support feet may be arranged.

[0031] It can be further advantageous for the design of an efficient motion mechanism if the connecting sections are designed such that, depending on the position of the sliding element, the support legs can rotate about their respective connecting section. According to another preferred embodiment, the connecting sections are therefore designed eccentrically with respect to a longitudinal axis of the respective support leg. The connecting section can preferably form one end of the support leg.

[0032] To further minimize the space requirements of the sliding element and thus the housing element, it can be advantageous if the support legs are framed, at least partially, in a guide on both sides along the axial direction at a designated section. According to a further preferred embodiment, the guide mechanism for the support legs is therefore designed as a cam guide. The respective cam guide frames, for example, the aforementioned connecting sections of the corresponding support leg, at least partially, in a channel-like manner. The support legs can also preferably be rotatably mounted in a locking area on the housing element. For this purpose, the support legs and the housing element can have corresponding perforations by means of which they are connected via a bolt-like connecting element.This connecting element can then form a physical axis of rotation for the respective supporting leg.

[0033] It can be further advantageous to provide means on the guide mechanism which, in the support position, both promote the stability of the support legs and effectively prevent unintentional pivoting. According to a further preferred embodiment, the guide mechanism therefore has at least one locking mechanism for locking at least one support leg in the support position. The locking mechanism can engage particularly without user intervention, so that the user can be certain that the locking mechanism engages and the support legs remain securely in the support position without any further intervention on their part. The locking mechanism can, for example, be designed as a nose-like retaining section against which at least one support leg rests in the support position. For example, if...If only one retaining section is provided, this retaining section can either correspond to only one support leg, as described above, or be designed, for example, to be continuous, so that several support legs can be brought into contact with it simultaneously. A separate retaining section is particularly preferred for each support leg. If the guide mechanism is designed, for example, as a cam guide for each support leg, as described above, each cam guide can also have its own locking mechanism, for example, in the form of such a retaining section. The respective cam guide can, for example, terminate in a recess at an outer transition area, whereby the transition area can be designed as a nose-like retaining section on at least one side. It is also conceivable that the locking is achieved mechanically, for example, by temporarily forming a reversible positive and / or force-fit.

[0034] For the sake of a simple and space-saving design of the support unit, it can be further advantageous if the support legs lie as close as possible to the housing element or the sliding element in the rest position. Therefore, the support legs can each have a recess in the area of, for example, the eccentrically designed connecting section, which corresponds to, and preferably follows, the aforementioned nose-like retaining section of the respective cam guide. In the rest position, the support legs can thus, for example, with their respective recesses, fit snugly against the corresponding locking mechanism, in particular a retaining section. The support legs can thus have an outer edge in the rest position that lies in the same plane as an outer surface of the housing element. Opposite the recess on the connecting section, the support legs preferably have a convexly shaped arc section.The arched section can, for example, correspond to the shape of at least one section of the aforementioned hollowing out of the scenery guides.

[0035] In their resting position, the support legs rest against an outer section of the aforementioned recess, particularly with respect to the aforementioned arc-shaped section. When the actuating element is activated, the sliding element is moved axially within the housing element, as described above. The connecting section is carried along with this movement, and, taking into account the locking mechanism of the corresponding support leg in the aforementioned locking area on the stationary housing element, the movement is redirected into a pivoting of the support leg. In the support position, the connecting section preferably rests against the locking mechanism, in particular a nose-like retaining section. The sliding element preferably exerts a stabilizing effect on the support legs, at least with its weight.

[0036] It can be advantageous if the connecting element for transmitting the actuation of the actuating element to the sliding element is rigidly designed. According to a further preferred embodiment, the connecting element is therefore designed as a telescopic rod. To ensure simple assembly or retrofitting of the support device on, for example, a walking aid, the rod can be designed, for example, as a plurality of pairs of rods, in particular round profiles, that can be slid into one another. In particular, the rod that is connected to the actuating unit or to the actuating element can have a thinner cross-section than the one that is connected to the sliding element. Two pairs of rods can also be provided, which can be arranged, for example, so that they are opposite each other on, for example, a walking aid. It is also possible to provide more than two pairs of connecting rods.However, considering cost and weight, two can be considered essentially sufficient.

[0037] To ensure that the connecting rods only need to be initially adjusted to a corresponding walking aid with regard to their telescopic length, quick-release fasteners for reversible locking can be provided in an insertion area of ​​the telescopic rods. The quick-release fasteners preferably have a housing that sits on the insertion area and thus partially covers both the upper and lower rods. Within this housing, for example, two clamping elements, one for each rod, can be manually locked in place using a toggle lever. The rods can be pushed further into or out of each other while the quick-release fasteners remain in position, but the clamping elements are not locked. Once a desired position of the rods relative to each other is reached, the clamping elements can be locked accordingly. These then clamp, for example...The respective connecting rods are inserted between themselves and a part of the housing and locked in place by friction. To prevent accidental release of the clamping elements, a manual locking mechanism may also be provided in the housing.

[0038] The rods can be screwed to the actuating unit or the sliding element. It is also conceivable that the connection between the rods and the actuating unit or sliding element is designed in such a way that it can be detached essentially without impairing the integrity of the components, for example, by the rods and the actuating unit or sliding element having corresponding threads.

[0039] However, it can also be advantageous if the connecting element is not rigid but flexible. This can save weight and further reduce the susceptibility to failure. As described above, the actuation of the actuator is preferably used to exert a tensile force on the sliding element. Any compressive forces, which are more difficult to transmit using a flexible connecting element, would be of secondary importance in this case. According to another preferred embodiment, the connecting element is therefore flexible, particularly rope-like. Besides ropes, cords, wires, wire ropes, or similar materials are also suitable. Ropes or cords can be made of natural fibers or plastics, for example. The flexible connecting element can be attached to the actuator by clamping, screwing, or a material bond.be connected to the sliding element.

[0040] It can be advantageous to provide means that allow for reversible adjustment of the length of a flexible, particularly rope-like, connecting element. Such means can preferably also be designed to tension the flexible connecting element. Tensioning the flexible connecting element can be advantageous for effective force transmission. According to a further preferred embodiment, the actuating unit therefore has a tensioning mechanism for adjusting the length of the flexible, particularly rope-like, connecting element. The tensioning mechanism can, for example, be designed as a winding roller or a worm spring, which is secured during use, in particular against unintentional unwinding and also against unwinding. In this way, the flexible connecting element can be easily and securely tensioned, wound up, and also unwound and thus lengthened.It is also possible to provide a clamping mechanism in the area of ​​the support unit.

[0041] It can be further advantageous if the actuating element is designed such that it can be easily operated by a user during the normal use of a corresponding medical and / or orthopedic device, e.g., a walking aid. According to a further preferred embodiment, the actuating element is therefore designed as an actuating lever. As explained above, it can be advantageous, for example, if the actuating element, i.e., the actuating lever, is located within easy reach of the user when using a corresponding device. The actuating lever can, for example, be designed on the actuating unit such that it can be easily pulled upwards by a user along the axial direction. The resulting displacement of the actuating element can then be transmitted to the sliding element via the connecting element to a preferably identical extent. For example,The user can preferably operate the operating lever without having to release the corresponding device, e.g. a walking aid.

[0042] To increase the flexibility of the support module with regard to its adaptability to various medical and / or orthopedic devices, it can be advantageous to be able to quickly attach and detach the actuating unit and the support unit. This is particularly important to avoid having to remove, for example, a handle when a walking aid is used as such a device in order to position or remove the actuating unit. According to a further preferred embodiment, the actuating unit and / or the housing element are therefore designed to be flexible. This can refer to the material used, but also, and especially, to the design of the aforementioned components. For example, the design can be slotted in such a way that the actuating unit or the housing element, or only a part thereof, can be reversibly bent open to be placed around a pipe or similar object.This flexible property can also be described as "foldability." "Foldable" in this context means that the aforementioned components can be expanded non-destructively and then easily removed from or attached to the corresponding device. Instead of a slot, it is also conceivable that the foldability is achieved through a multi-part design of the components. This is also conceivable for the sliding element. The components, especially those of the actuating unit, can also have one or more areas of significantly increased elasticity, so that these can be expanded and removed from the corresponding device as needed. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the aforementioned components could, for example...are designed with a closure similar to a lever or hook closure, so that they can be clamped to a corresponding device by means of a releasable force-fit connection.

[0043] The housing element can be designed, as mentioned above, for example, as an outer shell with a cover element and an inner sleeve. A base element can also be provided, which closes off the housing element opposite the cover element. A base element can further serve as a limit or stop for the sliding element in its rest position. During actuation, the actuating unit or element determines the distance by which the sliding element is moved along the axial direction. The housing element can be designed as a single piece or in multiple parts. In particular, it is possible for the housing element to be designed as a single piece, except for, for example, a base element. For securing the housing element to, for example, a corresponding device of the aforementioned type, it can be advantageous for the housing element to be equipped with simple, yet secure and reversible connecting means.According to a further preferred embodiment, the housing element therefore has a clamping mechanism. The clamping mechanism can, for example, be designed as part of the cover element of the housing element. The clamping mechanism can be, for example, two-part or slotted on one side, and in each case designed for clamping by means of a screw or a clamp closure. Corresponding designs, which could also be applied here, have already been developed for the foldability of components of the support module.

[0044] To further stabilize the support legs in the supported position and also to facilitate their return to the rest position, it can be advantageous to provide means in the support unit that exert correspondingly advantageous forces on the sliding element in the housing element. According to a further preferred embodiment, one or more energy storage devices, in particular coil springs, are therefore assigned to the sliding element in the housing element. Other suitable energy storage devices include, for example, hydraulic, pneumatic, electromechanical, or piston-cylinder systems. If, for example, a coil spring is provided as the energy storage device, it can preferably be arranged between the sliding element and, for example, the cover element of the housing element. The sliding element can also, for example, have a circumferential recess in the form of a groove into which the coil spring can be inserted. The coil spring can then, for example,The support element is compressed in the support position, thus pre-tensioning it. This pre-tensioning force can then act, for example, on the support legs in the area of ​​the connecting sections, which are preferably in contact with a locking mechanism as described above, in particular a nose-like retaining section. The force required to overcome the retaining section can then be exceeded, in particular, by applying pressure to the support legs. The force required by the user to retract the support legs can therefore be correspondingly reduced compared to a design without a force storage device or coil spring. At the same time, the pre-tensioning force indirectly stabilizes the support legs at the retaining sections, for example.

[0045] It can be further advantageous to equip the actuating unit with means that make it easier for the user to actuate the actuating element. According to a further preferred embodiment, a force storage device, in particular a coil spring, is therefore associated with the actuating element of the actuating unit. The force storage device can also be designed in the manner already described above. If the force storage device of the actuating unit is, for example, designed as a coil spring, it can pre-tension the, for example, mechanically functioning actuating lever in the rest position, so that the force required for actuation is reduced. When the support legs are returned to their rest position from the support position, the spring can then be recharged accordingly.

[0046] The invention further relates to a walking aid comprising a head section and a foot section, which are telescopically arranged relative to each other along a longitudinal axis. According to the invention, the walking aid has an actuating unit with an actuating housing fixed to the head section and an actuating lever slidably mounted thereon. The walking aid further comprises a support unit with a housing element fixed to the foot section, and a sliding element slidably mounted along the longitudinal axis within the housing element. A plurality of pivotable support legs are pivotally mounted on a guide mechanism of the sliding element.Furthermore, the walking aid according to the invention has a connecting element which connects the actuating element and the sliding element in such a way that, by actuating the actuating element, the sliding element is moved relative to the housing element along the longitudinal axis in the direction of the head section, and the support legs are pivoted from a rest position to a supporting position. The connecting element is length-adjustable with respect to the longitudinal axis and is thus designed to be adaptable to the telescoping of the head and foot sections.

[0047] The descriptions and definitions given for the support module can also be applied to the corresponding extent to the mode of operation and possibilities of the aforementioned walking aid according to the invention.

[0048] It can be particularly advantageous if the support legs are long enough to allow the walking aid to be placed on a level surface, for example, solely by means of the support legs, while the walking aid otherwise has no contact with the ground. This prevents a user from accidentally attempting to walk with the support legs extended. Instead, such an attempt would result in an overload situation, causing at least one support leg to be subjected to such stress that the support legs are forced back into their resting position. In the resting position, the user can, of course, move around safely. This is also conceivable for the aforementioned support module when attached to a corresponding medical and / or orthopedic device.

[0049] An embodiment of the invention is explained below with reference to the figures. The figures show: Fig. 1 a perspective view of a support module according to one embodiment in the rest position; Fig. 2a a sectional view of a support unit of a support module according to one embodiment; Fig. 2b a sectional view of the support unit Fig. 2a in a support position; Fig. 3 A perspective view of a walking aid according to one embodiment.

[0050] Fig. 1 Figure 1 illustrates an example of a support module 10 with an actuating unit 14 and a support unit 18, which are connected to each other by means of a rope 26 as a connecting element.

[0051] The actuating unit 14 comprises an actuating housing 15 with a sleeve section 19. The sleeve section 19 is designed for clamping attachment to a round profile. The actuating unit 14 further comprises an actuating lever 16, which projects through the actuating housing 15. At one upper end, the actuating lever 16 has a right-angled bent portion, which is intended in particular for manual operation by a user. The actuating lever is secured against rotation within the actuating housing 15 and is movable only in an axial direction A.

[0052] The actuating unit 15 further comprises a clamping mechanism 17, which is located in Fig. 1 The clamping mechanism 17 is arranged as an example in an exploded view. It is designed as a spindle which can be fixed to a connecting section 23 of the actuating lever 16. The connecting section 23 has an angular topology, while the clamping mechanism 17 has a positive-locking corresponding topology on a rear side not shown in detail here.

[0053] The tensioning mechanism 17 allows, for example, the length of the rope 26 to be adjusted and, if necessary, tensioned. The rope 26 is made of wire mesh. It is also possible to use other natural or synthetic fibers for this purpose.

[0054] Fig. 1 Figure 18 further illustrates the support unit 18, which is arranged axially spaced from the actuating unit 14 in direction A. The actuating unit 14 has a housing element 20, which has a clamping mechanism 32 at one upper end facing the actuating unit 14 and a bottom cover 21 at the opposite lower end. The bottom cover 21 is, for example, designed to be removable. The clamping mechanism 32 is implemented as a two-part assembly that can be tightened by means of screws.

[0055] A sliding element 22, not shown in detail here, is arranged in the housing element 20. The housing element 20 further has openings 29 through which a support leg 24 projects into the housing element 20 and is connected there to the aforementioned sliding element 22. The support legs 24 are each connected to the housing element by means of bolts 30. The support legs 24 are arranged here, for example, in a rest position and point upwards from the housing element 20 towards the actuating unit 14. The support legs 24 each have a support foot 28 at their free ends, which are made here of a material with a high coefficient of friction.

[0056] Fig. 2a Figure 18 illustrates a support unit, which is also in the rest position. The sliding element 22 within the housing element 20 is now also visible in the sectional view. Fig. 2a This also illustrates by way of example that the housing element 20 here has an inner sleeve 38 in addition to the aforementioned features.

[0057] The sliding element 22 has a cam guide 40 for connecting each support leg 24. The cam guides 40 are angled relative to, for example, the axial direction A. The support legs 24 are connected in the respective cam guide 40, for example, by means of barrel-shaped connecting sections 34. The connecting sections 34 are arranged eccentrically relative to the support leg 24, with a rounded arc section 36 provided for the transition in each case (see figure). Fig. 2a ).

[0058] In the Fig. 2a In the illustrated rest position, the arc section 36 is essentially positively locked in one of the openings 29. It is also conceivable that in other embodiments, the arc section 36 rests against a part of the housing element 20 in the rest position. In the embodiment according to Fig. 2a The support legs 24 are each positioned in a corresponding opening 29 such that they essentially form a flat surface with the housing element 20 on an outward-facing side.

[0059] When the sliding element 22 is actuated by an actuating unit 14 (not shown here), the sliding element 22 is moved upwards in axial direction A. Due to its bearing on the respective bolt 30, the movement is converted into a rotation, i.e., a pivoting of the respective support leg 24, whereby the connecting section 34 can temporarily move further into the cam guide 40. The movement of the connecting section 34 in the housing element 20 or the cam guide 40 can, in particular, be along a circular path. This, in turn, has the advantage that the stroke required to pivot the support legs 24, which must be induced by the actuating lever 16, is small. Such a small stroke can be convenient and safe for the user.

[0060] In this regard, it illustrates Fig. 2b for example, support unit 18 from Fig. 2a , however, in a support position in which the support legs 24 are effectively swung out. It is noticeable that in the support position the support legs 24 are each repositioned such that the arc section 36 is now directed inwards and the connecting section 34 upwards ( Fig. 2b ). It becomes further clear that the cam track 40 here forms an outer cavity with the housing element 20, in which the eccentric connecting section is arranged.

[0061] At the upper outer end of the cam guide 40, a nose-like retaining section 42 is formed. In the support position, the corresponding connecting sections 34 can rest against the corresponding retaining section 42, thereby preventing, for example, the unintentional pivoting of the support legs 24. This arrangement can be further enhanced in other embodiments, for example, by the use of a ring or coil spring. For this purpose, the sliding element features, for example, as shown in Fig. 2b The figure shows a spring groove on its upper surface facing the clamping mechanism 32. An example spring arranged therein could be compressed in the support position and thus preload the sliding element 22. This could, for example, further stabilize the connection between the holding section 42 and the connecting section 34.

[0062] The return force required to retract the support legs 24 could preferably be realized by applying pressure to the support legs 24 from below. If the support unit 18 is placed on a flat surface, for example, pressure from above on the support unit 18 is sufficient to cause the support legs to pivot due to the resistance of the surface. The return force can, in particular, correlate with the resistance exerted by the retaining sections 42 on the connecting sections 34.

[0063] Fig. 3Figure 12 illustrates a walking aid 12 with a head section 46 and a foot section 48. The head section 46 has, in particular, a handle 50, and in the area of ​​the handle 50, an actuating unit 14. The actuating unit 14 has an actuating housing 15, which is arranged on the head section 46 by means of a sleeve section 19. The actuating unit 14 further has an actuating lever 16.

[0064] A support unit 18 is arranged on the foot section 48, comprising a housing element 20 which is fixed to the foot section 48 by means of a clamping mechanism 32 (not shown in detail here). The foot section 48 has a foot 52 below the support unit 18. A gap is formed between the housing element 20 and the foot 52. In other embodiments, it is at least conceivable that the housing element 20 is supported on the foot 52. Support legs 24 are also associated with the housing element 20, which are shown here in a rest position.

[0065] The head and foot sections (46, 48) are each essentially designed as bar profiles 49. The housing element 20 is placed onto the bar profile 49 of the foot section 48, while the actuating unit 14 is clamped on by means of the sleeve section 19.

[0066] A user of the walking aid 12 can operate the operating lever 16 without having to remove their hand from the handle 50. This design proves to be particularly safe and easy to use in practice.

[0067] Several particular advantages can be identified, especially with regard to the aforementioned embodiments of a walking aid 12. For example, it has surprisingly been found that it is advantageous for the user if the operating lever 16 is pulled rather than pushed while gripping the handle 50. This makes operation easier for users with limited mobility and is also extremely practical for children with small hands or for seniors with impaired fine motor skills. This is further supported, for example, by the fact that the travel distance required by the operating lever 16 to fully extend the support legs 24 is relatively small.

[0068] Various materials are suitable for manufacturing the aforementioned components. Key requirements include low weight combined with high stability. Accordingly, various rigid plastics or lightweight metals, for example, can be used. The components can also be produced using innovative manufacturing processes such as 3D printing, injection molding, sintering, or similar methods.

Claims

1. A support module (10) for external attachment to medical and / or orthopedic devices, comprising - an actuation unit (14) comprising an actuation element (16), - a support unit (18) spaced apart from the actuation unit (14) in an axial direction (A), comprising a housing element (20), and a displacement element (22) within the housing element (20) that is configured to be displaceable in the axial direction (A), - a plurality of swing-out support legs (24) that are articulately connected to the displacement element (22), - a connection element (26), which is operatively connected to the actuation element (16) at a first end and to the displacement element (22) at a second end in such a way that, upon actuation of the actuation element (16), the displacement element (22) is moved relative to the housing element (20) in the axial direction (A), thereby swinging the support legs (24) from a rest position into a support position, wherein - the connection element is configured as a direct connection between the actuation element and the displacement element, - the connection means (26) is designed to be length-adjustable, so that the axial distance between the actuation unit (14) and the support unit (18) is adjustable, characterized in that - the support legs are operatively connected to the displacement element in such a way that a pressure force applied to the support legs displaces the displacement element into a position corresponding to the rest position, and the support legs are automatically swinging in.

2. Support module (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that the displacement element (22) comprises a guide mechanism (40) for guiding the support legs (24) from the rest position to the support position.

3. Support module (10) according to claim 2, characterized in that the support legs (24) comprise raised connection sections (34) that are operatively connected to the guide mechanism (40).

4. Support module (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the connection sections (34) are formed eccentrically with respect to a longitudinal axis of the respective support leg (24).

5. Support module (10) according to one or more of claims 2-4, characterized in that the guide mechanism (40) for the support legs (24) is designed in each case as a slide guide.

6. Support module (10) according to one or more of claims 2-5, characterized in that the guide mechanism (40) comprises at least one locking mechanism (42) for locking at least one support leg (24) in the support position.

7. Support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the connection element (26) is configured as a telescoping linkage.

8. Support module (10) according to one or more of claims 1-6, characterized in that the connection element (26) is designed to be flexible.

9. Support module (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that the actuation unit (14) comprises a tensioning mechanism (17) for adjusting the length of the flexible connection element (26).

10. A support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation element (16) is configured as an actuation lever.

11. Support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the actuation unit (14) and / or the housing element (20) are designed to be flexible.

12. Support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing element (20) comprises a clamping mechanism (32).

13. Support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that one or more energy storage devices are associated with the displacement element (22) within the housing element (20).

14. Support module (10) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that an energy storage device is associated with the actuation element (16) of the actuation unit (14).

15. A walking aid (12) comprising a support module according to one of the preceding claims, having a head section (46) and a foot section (48) that are configured to have telescoping ability relative to one another along a longitudinal axis, comprising - an actuation unit (14) comprising an actuation housing (15) fixedly arranged on the head section (46) and actuation element (16) displaceable with respect to the actuation housing, - a support unit (18) comprising a housing element (20) fixedly arranged on the foot section (48), and a displacement element (22) within the housing element (20) that is displaceable along the longitudinal axis, - a plurality of swing-out support legs (24), which are articulatedly mounted on a guide mechanism (40) of the displacement element (22), - a connection element (26) that links the actuation element (16) and the displacement element (22) in such a way that, upon actuation of the actuation element (16), the displacement element (22) moves relative to the housing element (20) along the longitudinal axis toward the head section (46), and the support legs (24) are swung out from a rest position into a support position, wherein - the connection element (26) is designed to be length-adjustable relative to the longitudinal axis and thus adaptable to the telescoping ability of the head and foot sections (46, 48) with respect to one another.

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