Inversion device

Abstract

Inversion device 1 comprising a structure 2 supported on the ground and a frame 3 configured to receive a patient, and comprising at least: - a patient support 4 having a first support surface 5 of the upper part of the patient's body and a second support surface 6 of the patient's buttocks-thigh assembly, - means for holding the patient on said support, said frame 3 pivoting relative to the structure 2 between a position called "installation" and a position called "inversion" in which the first support surface 5 is under the second support surface 6, the second support surface 6 pivoting relative to the frame 3 and the first support surface 5 around an axis parallel to a longitudinal axis AA' of the first support surface 5.

Description

[0001] The technical field concerns devices with a support for receiving a patient. This support is configured to tilt from an initial "installation" position, in which the patient can be positioned horizontally or with their head elevated, to an inversion position, with the patient's head downwards. In this inversion position, the patient's spine is stretched along a longitudinal axis. This helps relieve the patient's back pain.

[0002] The term "patient" generally refers to a user, a patient or a client, the said device being able to be operated alone or by a third party, for example a practitioner or a caregiver.

[0003] When the support is a table-like surface on which the patient can lie, such a device is called an inversion table. The patient is strapped to the table and / or has their feet or legs restrained by means of support such as a support bar or strap.

[0004] This device has the disadvantage of being bulky.

[0005] To remedy this, a more compact device was devised, comprising a support with a seat and a backrest forming a chair, called an inversion chair.

[0006] Here too, the patient is strapped to the chair and / or has their feet or legs held in place by means of restraint, for example in the form of a restraint bar or straps.

[0007] Such an inversion chair is described in document US2008061615. It describes a device comprising a structure supported by the floor and a frame configured to accommodate a patient, said frame comprising at least: a chair comprising a seat and a backrest capable of accommodating the patient, and means of restraining the patient in said chair said framework pivoting relative to the structure from a so-called "installation" position in which the patient is seated to a so-called "inversion" position in which the patient is head down.

[0008] A patient sits on the seat with their back against the backrest, secured by restraints. The restraints taught here include straps, a belt, and a leg restraint system that positions the patient's legs between a leg support surface and a movable, lockable bar.

[0009] The term "buttock-thigh assembly" refers throughout the description, drawings and claims to the upper part of the lower limbs of the human body, that is to say, the part from the buttocks to the knee.

[0010] The term "leg" throughout the description, drawings and claims refers to the lower part of the lower limbs of the human body, that is to say, the part from the knee to the foot.

[0011] The term "upper body" means throughout the description, drawings and claims the upper part of the human body, that is to say the part of the human body above the waist, comprising the trunk, upper limbs, and head.

[0012] The term "lower body" means throughout the description, drawings and claims the lower part of the human body, that is to say the part of the human body below the belt, comprising the pelvis, buttocks-thighs and legs.

[0013] Once the patient is secured in the chair, the chair can tilt backwards until the patient is upside down to stretch their spine along a longitudinal axis to that spine.

[0014] Pivoting locking mechanisms allow the patient to be held head down. These locking mechanisms may take the form of a finger on the frame cooperating with a slot on the structure to prevent the frame from pivoting relative to the structure. Alternatively, these locking mechanisms may take the form of a brake pad on the structure that presses against the frame to prevent the frame from pivoting relative to the structure.

[0015] It is possible with this device, by the effect of gravity, to stretch the patient's spine along a longitudinal axis to this spine in order to reduce the pressures exerted by the body weight on the patient's vertebrae and vertebral discs when the patient is tilted head down.

[0016] The document US2004138593 presents an analogous inversion chair, with a structure and frame comprising a chair and means for restraining a patient on the chair, in which the pivoting of the frame relative to the structure can be done 360°, forward or backward.

[0017] Pivot locking mechanisms similar to those described above allow the patient to be kept head down or in a desired position.

[0018] As presented in the previous document, the pressure exerted by the body weight on the patient's vertebrae and vertebral discs is reduced when the patient is tilted head down.

[0019] A practitioner such as, for example, a massage therapist and / or physiotherapist and / or occupational therapist can use such a device to relieve a patient's back pain.

[0020] These devices from the prior art, however, have drawbacks.

[0021] The methods used to restrain the patient in the chair or inversion table limit their movement. However, in the head-down position, due to the spinal stretch, it may be beneficial for the practitioner to perform manipulations on the patient, for example, guiding them through specific movements while the spine is stretched, particularly at the level of the spine itself. A patient can also perform specific movements independently while in the stretched position.

[0022] But the very configuration of the device does not allow this, due to the patient being held on the chair or table to prevent the patient from falling off the chair.

[0023] Furthermore, inversion chair devices as described above cannot be adjusted to the body shapes of patients, which limits their use.

[0024] It is therefore an objective of the invention to offer an inversion device improved compared to the prior art, allowing manipulations to be carried out on the spine of a patient in addition to those possible with the prior art devices described above.

[0025] It is also an objective of the invention to offer an inversion device that can adapt to the morphology of the patient.

[0026] It is also an objective of the invention to provide a robust reversing device that is simple to manufacture and implement.

[0027] To this end, the invention relates to an inversion device comprising a structure supported on the ground and a frame configured to receive a patient, said device comprising at least: a patient support comprising a first support surface for the upper part of the patient's body and a second support surface for the patient's buttocks and thighs, said framework pivoting relative to the structure between a position called "installation" in which the first support surface is at the level of or above the second support surface, so as to allow installation of a patient on said support horizontally or with the head of said patient raised, and a position called "inversion" in which the first support surface is below the second support surface.

[0028] The invention is characterized by the fact that the second support surface pivots relative to the frame and the first support surface around an axis parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first support surface.

[0029] In the context of the present invention, the term "longitudinal axis of the first support surface" corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine when he is in position on the inversion device.

[0030] In the context of the present invention, the terms "front", "rear", "top" and "bottom" are used, unless otherwise indicated, with reference to the device according to the invention in the so-called "installation" position.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device further includes means for holding the patient on said support.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, said frame is capable of pivoting 360° relative to said structure so as to be able to move said first support surface from the installation position, to the inversion position and then back to the installation position by pivoting continuously in the clockwise or counterclockwise direction.

[0033] This allows the lower body to rotate naturally relative to the upper body along an axis of rotation parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first support surface and to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine while the spine is stretched.

[0034] A practitioner can then safely perform additional manipulations to those usually performed on a patient placed on such an inversion device.

[0035] Such a device is simple and economical in design.

[0036] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the frame support includes a third support surface, called a "leg rest", juxtaposed to the second support surface, opposite the first support surface.

[0037] Thus, the legs, held against the third support surface called the "leg rest," can remain stationary relative to the buttocks and thighs. The leg rest can be attached to the second support surface to pivot along with it.

[0038] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the second support surface pivots relative to the frame and the first support surface around an axis perpendicular to the first support surface.

[0039] This allows the lower body to rotate naturally relative to the upper body along an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine while the spine is stretched. This allows, in particular, for manipulation of the spinal joints.

[0040] A practitioner can then safely perform additional manipulations beyond those usually performed on a patient placed on such an inversion device, such as additional patient positions and movements. A patient placed in the device alone can also perform additional movements.

[0041] The combination of the two movements provides greater freedom of movement for the patient placed on the inversion device.

[0042] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the framework includes amplitude stops for pivoting in the planes perpendicular and parallel to the first support surface.

[0043] This helps to avoid excessive pivoting freedom, which could injure the patient.

[0044] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the second support surface is able to pivot relative to the frame and the first support surface when the frame is in a position between the installation position and the inversion position.

[0045] This allows even greater freedom of movement for the patient positioned on the inversion device and a greater possibility of manipulation that can be performed by the practitioner.

[0046] According to a preferred feature of the invention, in an intermediate position between the installation position and the inversion position, the first support surface is horizontal.

[0047] This allows the device to be placed in a particular configuration, in which the upper part of the patient is horizontal, which is more comfortable for him.

[0048] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the device includes means for locking the frame relative to the structure in the inversion and installation position, but also in an intermediate position between the installation position and the installation position.

[0049] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the support has a so-called neutral configuration, in which the first support surface and the second support surface have a configuration in which a first plane, defined by the longitudinal axis of the first support surface and a line perpendicular to said first support surface, and a second plane defined by the longitudinal axis of the second support surface and a line perpendicular to said second support surface are coincident.

[0050] In this so-called neutral configuration, a patient placed on the support with this configuration is comfortably positioned, without rotation of the pelvic joint or spine.

[0051] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the device includes elastic return means to the neutral configuration of the support.

[0052] This makes it easier to control the pivoting movements of the second support surface relative to the first support surface and the framework.

[0053] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the device includes means for automatically locking the support in a neutral configuration.

[0054] Thus, in the case of a pivoting operation performed by a practitioner of the second support surface to perform a manipulation of the patient, the practitioner can simply return the support to neutral configuration.

[0055] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the frame support forms a chair, the second support surface forms a seat, and the first support surface forms a backrest.

[0056] The device thus forms an inversion chair, with a seat that can pivot relative to the backrest.

[0057] The patient is thus positioned in a more compact way than in a lying position, which simplifies the manipulations of the practitioner using such a device.

[0058] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the third support surface called "leg rest" is mounted fixed in pivoting in a plane perpendicular to the second support surface around a longitudinal axis to the second support surface.

[0059] Thus, the entire lower part of the patient can pivot as a unit.

[0060] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the third support surface called "leg rest" pivots in a plane perpendicular to the second support surface around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second support surface and included in a plane parallel to the second support surface.

[0061] This allows the angle of the legs to be adjusted in relation to the buttocks-thigh assembly.

[0062] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the device includes at least means for adjusting the longitudinal position of the first support surface and the second support surface.

[0063] This allows the device and especially the chair to be adapted to the patient's morphology, otherwise the handling and support of the patient may be degraded.

[0064] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the device includes means for adjusting the longitudinal position of the leg rest relative to the second support surface.

[0065] This allows the leg rest to slide relative to the seat to adapt the chair to the customer's body shape.

[0066] According to a preferred feature of the invention, the second surface includes an inclined buttock support area.

[0067] The invention also relates to an inversion device comprising a structure supported on the ground and a frame configured to receive a patient, said device at least: a patient support comprising a first support surface for the upper part of the patient's body and a second support surface for the patient's buttocks and thighs, said frame pivoting relative to the structure between a so-called "installation" position in which the first support surface is at the level of or above the second support surface so as to allow a patient to be installed on said support horizontally or with the head of said patient raised, and a so-called "inversion" position in which the first support surface is below the second support surface, said second support surface pivoting relative to the frame and the first support surface around an axis FF' parallel to the longitudinal axis AA' of the first support surface and to the longitudinal axis of the patient's spine, characterized in that the second support surface comprises a platform, including an upper surface and a lower surface,and a cylindrical component extending perpendicularly from said lower surface, and in that said support comprises a recess for receiving said cylindrical component.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment, said support is integral with said first bearing surface.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment, said recess forms a rail extending along an axis perpendicular to a first plane P1 defined by the longitudinal axis AA' and the transverse axis BB' of the first bearing surface.

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment, said cylindrical component is a pinion and said rail is associated with a rack.

[0071] According to a preferred embodiment, said pinion is connected to said lower surface via a gear.

[0072] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent during the following description, with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating examples of embodiments and in which: [ Fig 1 ] is a schematic front perspective view of a device according to an embodiment of the invention, excluding support means, in the form of an inversion chair, in a so-called "installation" position allowing a patient to be installed in said device, a device in which a seated patient is installed with their head raised relative to their body. Fig 2 ] is a schematic view of the device from the same viewing angle as the figure 1 alone, without a patient connected to the device. Fig 3 ] is a schematic view of the device of the figure 2 in the so-called inversion position, with the chair seat pivoted to the right. Fig 4 ] is a schematic view of the device of the figure 2 in an intermediate position between the resting position and the inverted position, with the chair seat pivoted to the left. Fig 5 ] is a schematic front perspective view of a device according to another embodiment of the invention, in the form of an inversion chair, in a so-called "installation" position allowing a patient to be installed in said device, a device in which a seated patient is installed with their head raised relative to their body. Fig 6 ] is a schematic view from the same viewing angle of the device of the figure 5 alone, without a patient connected to the device. Fig 7 ] is a schematic representation from a front view of the device of the figure 6 . [ Fig 8 [ ] is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of the invention in an intermediate position between the resting position and the inverted position, with the chair seat pivoted to the left. Fig 9 ] is a schematic view of the device from the same viewing angle as the figure 8 alone, with the chair seat not swiveled. Fig 10 ] is a schematic, top-down view of the implementation of the figure 8 in a resting position with the chair seat not swiveled. Fig 11 ] is a schematic, top-down view of the implementation of the figure 8 in a resting position with the chair seat swiveled to the right. Fig 12 ] is a schematic, bottom-view of the implementation of the figure 8 in a resting position with the chair seat not swiveled. Fig 13 ] is a schematic, top-down view of the implementation of the figure 8 in a resting position with the chair seat swiveled to the left. Fig 14 ] is a schematic view of the underside of the second support surface of a preferred embodiment of the invention with the seat in a neutral position and pivoted to the left (from left to right). Fig 15 ] is a schematic, side view of a preferred embodiment of the invention in a resting, intermediate, inverted position (from left to right). Fig 16 ] is a schematic, profile view of a complete device and of the underside of the second support surface (from left to right), of a preferred embodiment of the invention comprising a counterweight.

[0073] The invention relates to an inversion device 1, hereinafter referred to as "device 1". It comprises a structure 2 which is placed on the ground, and which is surmounted by a frame 3.

[0074] This frame 3 is configured to receive a patient, meaning that a patient can sit on or against a support 4 of the frame 3 as illustrated in the figure 1 and the figure 5 .

[0075] With reference to the figures, device 1 is considered in a position of use, with structure 2 placed and supported on the ground and framework 3 above.

[0076] Thus, as illustrated on the figures 1 à 6 , the front of the device is to the right of the figures, and the rear of device 1 is to the left of the figures, the bottom of device 1 is at the bottom of the figures, and the top of device 1 is at the top of the figures.

[0077] Device 1 has a front and a rear, crossed longitudinally by a vertical principal plane P0.

[0078] The support 4 of the framework 3 includes at least a first support surface 5 and a second support surface 6, allowing a patient installed on the device 1 to press the upper part of his body against said first support surface 5, and his buttock-thigh assembly against said second support surface 6.

[0079] The first support surface 5 can be substantially rectangular in shape, extending longitudinally towards the second support surface 6 along a first longitudinal axis AA'. A first transverse axis BB' is perpendicular to the first support surface 5. The first longitudinal axis AA' and the first transverse axis BB' to the first support surface 5 define a first plane P1.

[0080] The second support surface 6 can also be substantially rectangular in shape, extending longitudinally along a second longitudinal axis CC'. A second transverse axis DD' is perpendicular to the second support surface 6. The second longitudinal axis CC' and the second transverse axis DD' to the second support surface 6 define a second plane P2.

[0081] According to a first embodiment of the invention, the support 4 of the frame 3 can be in the form of a chair as illustrated in the figures 1 à 7 , the first support surface 5 forming a backrest and the second support surface 6 forming a seat.

[0082] Alternatively, the support 4 of the framework 3 can be in the form of an inversion table according to an embodiment of the invention not illustrated here.

[0083] The framework 3 includes means of restraining a patient 7 on or against the support 4, in the form, for example, of at least one belt or straps for restraining a patient on the support 4 capable of restraining the patient against the first support surface 5 or the second support surface 6.

[0084] A patient can position themselves or be positioned leaning on or against the support 4 of the framework 3, with their back or torso against the first support surface 5 and their buttocks and thighs against the second support surface 6.

[0085] The framework 3 is configured to pivot relative to the structure 2 around an axis EE', horizontal and perpendicular to the main plane P0, according to a rotational movement included in the main plane P0.

[0086] To enable this pivoting, the framework 3 may include at least one system of curved rails 30, cooperating with a guide system 20 of the structure 2.

[0087] The rail system 30 is here formed of two rails 300 having an identical curvature, and having so-called external faces oriented towards the outside of the frame 3 and so-called internal faces oriented towards the inside of the frame 3. These curved rails 300 are carried by planes parallel to the main plane P0 and joined together by crossbeams 301 to form at least one lateral portion of a tube.

[0088] The 30 rail system illustrated on the figures 1 à 7 presents a lateral portion of a tube corresponding to approximately half a tube, but the 300 rails can also extend to form rings, allowing 360° rotation of the frame 3 relative to the structure 2.

[0089] The non-limiting embodiments of the invention presented on the figures 1 à 7 allow a 130° rotation of frame 3 relative to structure 2.

[0090] The guide system 20 of the structure 2 may include lugs 200 extending vertically on either side of the at least lateral portion of the tube, forming lateral guides for the rail system 20.

[0091] The outer faces of the rails 300 can come to rest against support rollers 201 of the structure 2, these rollers 201 being free to rotate in the main plane P0, facilitating the pivoting of the frame 3 with respect to the structure 2.

[0092] Retaining rollers 202 of the structure 2 laterally attached to one or more lugs 200 can form means of retaining the rail system 30 in the guide system 20, these retaining rollers 202 coming into contact with the inner faces of the rails 300 to hold the rails 300 against the support rollers 201.

[0093] The framework 3 can thus pivot relative to the structure 2 according to a rotational movement included in the principal plane P0.

[0094] In fact, frame 3 can tilt backwards from an initial "installation" position as illustrated on the figure 1 and the figure 5 configured to allow a patient to position themselves on the support 4 up to a maximum position known as "inversion", in which the first support surface 5 is lower, i.e. below the second support surface 6. In this inversion position, a patient positioned on the support 4 has their head down, i.e. at least below the lower part of their body.

[0095] In fact, in the inversion position, the first support surface 5 can end up in a vertical position, allowing a patient installed in the device to be upside down, with their head down and their feet up.

[0096] Device 1 can also be found in an intermediate position, in which the patient is head down and feet up, the first support surface 5 and therefore upper part of the patient's body horizontal.

[0097] On the figure 1 and the figure 5 , the framework 3 is in the installation position, with the first support surface 5 above the second support surface 6.

[0098] On the figure 3 , the framework 3 is in an inverted position, with the first support surface 5 under the second support surface 6.

[0099] In the so-called installation position, the first support surface 5 is at the same level as, or above, the second support surface 6, which allows a patient to easily position themselves on the support horizontally or with their head raised.

[0100] The device 1 may include means for locking the frame 3 in the installation position, allowing a patient to position themselves on the support 4, and to put in place the patient restraint means 7 on the support 4. These means for locking the frame 3 in the installation position may be in the known form of a finger of the structure 2 cooperating with a housing in a rail 300 to block the pivoting of the frame 3 relative to the structure 2, or of a brake pad of the structure 2 bearing against the rail system 30 to block the pivoting of the frame 3 relative to the structure 2.

[0101] It should be noted that the device 1 may also include braking means to slow down the speed of pivoting of the frame 3 relative to the structure 2, for example in the form of a brake pad of the structure 2 bearing against the rail system 30 to slow down the speed of pivoting of the frame 3 relative to the structure 2, the force of support of the brake pad against the rail system being adjustable.

[0102] Device 1 may also include means for locking the frame 3 relative to the structure 2 in the inverted position, but also in an intermediate position between the installation position and the upright position. These locking means may be similar to the locking means for the frame 3 in the upright position.

[0103] As illustrated on the figures 1 à 7 The support 4 may include a third support surface 8, called a "leg rest", against which a patient can place their legs, as illustrated in the figure 1 and the figure 5 . This third support surface 8 is juxtaposed longitudinally to the second support surface 6, opposite the first support surface 5.

[0104] The means of restraining a patient 7 on or against the support 4 may include a belt or straps for restraining a patient on the support 4 suitable for restraining the patient against the third support surface 7.

[0105] Alternatively or complementarily, the means of restraining a patient on or against the third support surface 8 may include a leg locking system interposing the patient's legs between the third support surface 8 and a movable and lockable bar.

[0106] The support 4 is mounted on a frame 9 which is fixedly attached to the rail system 30.

[0107] This reinforcement 9 comprises a body 90 fixedly attached to the first bearing surface 5, and has a longitudinal axis to the body FF' extending parallel to the first longitudinal axis AA' of the first bearing surface 5.

[0108] The frame 3 also includes an arm 91 to which the second bearing surface 6 and the third bearing surface 8 are attached.

[0109] In fact, the arm 91 of the frame 9 can pivot relative to the body 90 around the longitudinal axis to the body FF'.

[0110] The arm 91 can for example be fitted into a tubular fitting 900 of the body 90, in which it can pivot.

[0111] In the case of a support 4 forming a table type, the tubular fitting 900 can be straight.

[0112] In the case of a chair-like support, the 900 tubular fitting can be bent, as illustrated in particular on the figures 1 à 4 .

[0113] In fact, the second bearing surface 6 and possibly the third bearing surface 8 can pivot relative to the frame 3 and the first bearing surface 5 around the longitudinal axis to the body FF' which is parallel to the first longitudinal axis AA' of the first bearing surface 6.

[0114] Of course, the first bearing surface 5 can be confused with the body 91 of the reinforcement 9. The longitudinal axis to the body FF' and the first longitudinal axis AA' of the first bearing surface 6 can thus be confused.

[0115] A patient held on the support 4 of such a device 1 can thus rotate his lower body relative to his upper body.

[0116] The arm 91 of the frame 9 can also pivot relative to the body 90 around an axis perpendicular to the first bearing surface 5 and parallel to the first transverse axis BB.

[0117] Device 1 may include on frame 3 stops allowing the pivoting of the arm around the longitudinal axis of the body FF' to be blocked beyond a defined amplitude.

[0118] Device 1 may also include on the frame 3 additional stops allowing the pivoting of the arm around an axis perpendicular to the first support surface 5 and parallel to the first transverse axis BB' to be blocked beyond a defined amplitude.

[0119] As illustrated on the figure 3 and the figure 4 , the device 1 can be configured to allow the arm 91 and therefore the second support surface 6 to pivot around the longitudinal axis to the body FF' or an axis perpendicular to the first support surface 5 when the frame 3 is in the installation position or the inversion position, as well as when the frame 3 is in an intermediate position.

[0120] Support 4 can have a so-called neutral configuration, in which the first plane P1 and the second plane P2 coincide, as illustrated in the figure 2 and the figures 6 à 7 .

[0121] Device 1 may also include means for automatically locking the support in neutral configuration in the form, for example, of a retractable finger of the arm 91 extending radially, said finger having elastic return means capable of opposing the retraction of the finger, said finger cooperating by passing through a light in the body 90 of the armature.

[0122] Thus, it is possible to disengage the finger from the light to allow the arm 91 to pivot relative to the body 90. When the arm returns to the neutral position, the elastic return means, for example a leaf spring, push the finger back into the housing to maintain the support 4 in the neutral position.

[0123] Device 1 may include elastic return means to the neutral configuration of the support, in the form, for example, of a spiral spring, capable of opposing a pivoting of the second support surface 6 away from its position corresponding to the neutral configuration of the support 4. Alternatively, said elastic return means may be a counterweight, and even more preferably a counterweight whose mass is modifiable according to the mass of the patient.

[0124] The third support surface 8 called the leg rest can be fixedly mounted on the arm 91 relative to the second support surface, but it can also pivot according to a movement included in the plane P2, around an axis perpendicular to the plane P2, that is to say around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second surface and included in a plane parallel to the second support surface.

[0125] The device may include at least means for adjusting the longitudinal position of the first bearing surface 5 and the second bearing surface 6 in the form, for example, of slides sliding in the channels suitable for allowing the longitudinal sliding of the first bearing surface 5 relative to the body 90 of the reinforcement 9 and suitable for allowing the longitudinal sliding of the second bearing surface 6 relative to the arm 91 of the reinforcement 9.

[0126] The device may also include means for adjusting the longitudinal position of the leg rest 8 relative to the second support surface 6, for example in the form of slides sliding in channels suitable for allowing the longitudinal sliding of the leg rest 8 relative to the second support surface 6.

[0127] The second support surface 6 may include, opposite it, a buttock support area 60 that can be inclined and pivoted to adjust the seat's inclination to the patient's morphology, as illustrated in the figures 1 à 4 .

[0128] According to a preferred embodiment, the device of the invention can enable a rotational movement of the pelvis corresponding to the movement performed when the patient is lying on the floor with their feet on a Swiss Ball®. The movement performed by the feet, calves, and knees during this exercise is a cycloid. A cycloid is the path described in a plane by a point on a circle that rolls without slipping along a straight line. The complexity of this movement lies in the fact that it combines a translational movement with a rotational movement that must be synchronized. This embodiment is illustrated below.

[0129] According to the preferred embodiment presented to the [ Fig. 8 ]-[ Fig. 13 ] the second support surface 6 includes a platform 61, comprising an upper surface 62 and a lower surface 63, and an axis 64 extending perpendicularly from said lower surface 63.

[0130] In the context of the present invention, the term "axis" refers to a cylindrical element extending along a longitudinal axis (i.e., an axis of revolution). In a preferred embodiment, the axis 64 may, in particular, take the form of a rod with a circular cross-section, a shaft, a point, a pinion, or a dome. The axis 64 allows the pivoting of the plate 62 when the axis 64 is placed in a congruent recess 52.

[0131] In the context of the present invention, the term "extending from" means that said cylindrical member is associated directly or indirectly with said lower surface 63. Indeed, one or more elements may be inserted between said lower surface and said cylindrical member.

[0132] Preferably, said plate 61 has a totally or partially circular shape. By "partially circular" it is understood to mean that at least one section of the edge of said plate 61 forms an arc of a circle.

[0133] In a completely preferred manner the edge of said plateau 61 forms an arc of a circle of at least 180° and in a definitively preferred manner of 180°.

[0134] In another preferred way, the edge of said plateau 61 forms an arc of a circle between 70° and 110°, preferably between 80° and 100° and most preferably 90°.

[0135] Preferably, said plate 61 comprises a slice, at least one section of which forms a cam 65 for interacting with a guide 51 disposed under said first bearing surface 5. Even more preferably, said cam section 65 has the shape of a circular arc, and most preferably an arc of a circle of at least 180°. Another preferred method is said cam section 65 having an arc shape of between 70° and 110°, preferably between 80° and 100°, and most preferably 90°.

[0136] In the context of the present invention, "under said first support surface" means that in the so-called "installation" position, said guide is located under said first support surface 5.

[0137] According to a preferred embodiment, said guide 51 is a flat surface arranged in the extension of said first support surface 5, and according to a most preferred embodiment said first support surface 5 and said guide 51 form a continuous surface.

[0138] In a preferred embodiment, the distance of said axis 64 to all points of the section of the slice forming cam 65 is constant and most preferably is substantially equivalent to the distance between said recess 52 and said guide 51.

[0139] In a preferred embodiment, said cam-forming section 65 is the arc-shaped section of said plate 61.

[0140] The support 4 includes a recess 52, intended to receive the axle 64, which is integral with the first bearing surface 5. The association of the axle 64 and the recess 52 allows the establishment of a pivot joint between the first bearing surface 5 and the second bearing surface 6.

[0141] In the context of the present invention, the term "hollow" means any free space in which said cylindrical organ can pivot around its longitudinal axis and, in a preferred embodiment, translate perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis.

[0142] In the context of the present invention, the term "solid to the first bearing surface" means that said recess 52 is fixed relative to said first bearing surface 5. The association between said recess 52 and said first bearing surface 5 can be achieved by any type of joining piece.

[0143] Within the framework of the present invention, said recess 52 is congruent with said axis 64.

[0144] Preferably, said recess 52 forms a rail extending along a horizontal axis perpendicular to the first plane P1.

[0145] In this preferred embodiment, in addition to the pivot joint, said first 5 and second support surface 6 are associated via a sliding joint allowing translational movement of the second support surface 6 relative to the first support surface 5. The combination of rotational and translational movement allows a cycloid movement to be performed by the feet, calves and knees of the patient.

[0146] Thus, according to a highly preferred embodiment of the invention, said first support surface 5 and said guide 51 form a substantially flat continuous surface. This continuous surface is pivotally mounted 360° around a horizontal axis, allowing the device according to the invention to be moved from the so-called "installation" position to the so-called "inversion" position.

[0147] Below said guide 51, extends forward and perpendicularly to said continuous surface a second continuous surface 53 comprising said obviously 51 in the form of a rail perpendicular to the transverse axis of said first support surface 5 (i.e. in the foreground P1).

[0148] On the surface of said second continuous surface 53 is disposed said second support surface 6 such that the axis 64 is positioned in the recess 52 and the cam-forming section 65 is in contact with the guide 51.

[0149] Advantageously, said third support surface 8 is associated with the second on support face 6.

[0150] In doing so, the second support surface 6 will be able to pivot around an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first support surface 5 and simultaneously move transversely with respect to said first support surface 5.

[0151] With reference to the [ Fig. 14 ]-[ Fig. 16 ].

[0152] In a highly preferred embodiment, a rack and pinion system is used as the cylindrical element / rail system. The combined use of a pinion as the cylindrical element and a rack associated with the rail ensures better positioning of the second bearing surface during cycloidal motion and improved resistance to weight.

[0153] Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, said cylindrical member is a pinion and said rail is associated with at least one rack.

[0154] Advantageously, the second support surface must be able to imitate a Swiss Ball ®< of 50 cm in diameter, this means that to achieve a rotation of an angle of 80° left and right, a translation of 70 cm is required.

[0155] Within the framework of the present invention, the fact that the rail is associated with a rack means that said rack is disposed at the edge of said rail so as to allow the movement of said pinion, interacting with said rack, in said rail.

[0156] Preferably, the diameter of said pinion, the number of its teeth, and the technical characteristics of said rack are chosen so as to synchronize the rotation of the second bearing surface with its translation, thereby obtaining a perfect cycloidal motion. For the same purpose, a gear may be positioned between said second bearing surface and said pinion.

[0157] Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, said pinion is connected to said lower surface via a gear. According to a further preferred embodiment, said gear comprises at least one wheel associated with the center of rotation of said second support surface and a wheel associated with said pinion.

[0158] A person in the trade is able to calculate the characteristics and number of wheels constituting said gear according to the desired movement.

[0159] Depending on the dimensions chosen for the device according to the invention, the stroke of the second support surface to the left and right of the first support surface can be greater than the width of the second support surface.

[0160] In this case, it may be advantageous for the rack to be telescopic so as to extend as the second support surface moves.

[0161] Thus, according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, said rail is associated with two parallel racks arranged on either side of the pinion characterized in that one of the racks is mounted to slide between a retracted position, where the two racks are opposite each other, and a deployed position, where the racks are moved relative to each other so that they no longer extend opposite each other over a majority portion of their length,

[0162] It is thus understood that the rotation of the pinion will cause one of the two racks to move from its retracted position to its extended position. In doing so, the pinion remains between two side rails for most of the movement, ensuring optimal stability and weight distribution.

[0163] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 1 comprises a guide support 66, disposed opposite the lower surface 63 of the platform when the device according to the invention 1 is in the neutral position and in the installation position 61. Said guide support 66 is fixed relative to the first bearing surface 5. On said guide support 66 is mounted, sliding between a retracted position, where the second bearing surface 6 is in the neutral position, and a deployed position, where the second bearing surface 6 is at its maximum angle of rotation, a guide piece 67. The latter is also mounted for rotation, relative to the second bearing surface 5, around the axis of rotation of said second bearing surface 5. Said guide piece 67 is further associated with said pinion 64 and optionally with said gear.

[0164] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 1 according to the invention further comprises at least one cylinder 70 arranged to allow passage from the inversion position to the installation position (and vice versa).

[0165] The person in the trade is able to choose the cylinder(s) 70 and their respective position depending in particular on the weight of the device 1.

[0166] Advantageously, said jack 70 is placed between the structure supported on the ground of the device 1 and one of the points of intersection between the plane defined by the upper surface of the first support surface 5 and that defined by the upper surface of the second support surface 6.

[0167] The weight of device 1 according to the invention and the patient's weight can make it difficult for the patient's legs to return to the correct position after pelvic rotation. Consequently, it is advantageous to integrate a counterweight system into the device according to the invention to assist the patient.

[0168] Depending on the patient's weight and position (pelvis rotated or not), the assistance required may vary.

[0169] For this purpose, the device 1 according to the invention preferably comprises a cable 80, one end of which is fixed to the second support surface 6 and the other end to a counterweight 83, characterized in that on the stroke of said cable 80 is disposed at least one pulley 82 such that said cable 80 is not in support on said pulley 82 when the second support surface 6 is in neutral position.

[0170] Preferably, said cable 80 is fixed to the second support surface 6 at a point passing through the second plane P2.

[0171] Preferably, the device 1 according to the invention comprises two pulleys 82 placed on either side of the stroke of said cable 80 when the second support surface 6 is in neutral position and such that said cable 80 is in support on one of the two pulleys 82 when said second support surface 6 moves away from said neutral position.

[0172] In this way, the further the second support surface 6 moves away from the neutral position, the greater the reaction angle of the cable 80 increases and applies a torque to said second support surface 6.

[0173] Advantageously, the device 1 according to the invention can include other pulleys so as to offset the position of the counterweights 83. This solution is particularly advantageous because it allows the counterweights 83 to be offset towards the rear of the device 1 and thus facilitate their access by the practitioner.

[0174] At the other end of cable 80, a counterweight 83 is attached; this can be adjusted according to the patient's weight. The therapist can then adjust the counterweight 83 according to the patient's weight via a mechanism similar to the machines in gyms.

[0175] It is thus understood that with a device of limited size and complexity, the user can achieve movements previously out of reach.

[0176] Such a device 1 according to the invention in the form of an inversion table or an inversion chair can adapt to the morphology of the patient.

[0177] Such a device 1 according to the invention is robust, simple to manufacture and to implement.

Claims

1. Inversion device (1) comprising a structure (2) supported on the floor and a frame (3) configured to receive a patient, said device (1) comprising at least: - a patient support (4) having a first support surface (5) for the upper part of the patient's body and a second support surface (6) for the patient's buttocks and thigh, said frame (3) pivoting relative to the structure (2) between a so-called "installation" position in which the first support surface (5) is at the level of or above the second support surface (6) so as to allow a patient to be installed on said support (4) horizontally or with the head of said patient raised, and a so-called "inversion" position in which the first support surface (5) is below the second support surface (6).said second support surface (6) pivoting relative to the frame (3) and the first support surface (5) around an axis (FF') parallel to the longitudinal axis (AA') of the first support surface (5) and to the longitudinal axis of the patient's vertebral column, , characterized in that the second support surface (6) comprises a platform (61), comprising an upper surface (62) and a lower surface (63), and a cylindrical member (64) extending perpendicularly from said lower surface (63) and in that said support (4) includes a recess (52), intended to receive said cylindrical member (64), integral with said first bearing surface (5).

2. Reversing device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said recess (52) forms a rail extending along an axis perpendicular to a first plane P1 defined by the longitudinal axis (AA') and the transverse axis (BB') of the first bearing surface (5).

3. Reversing device (1) according to the preceding claim characterized in that said cylindrical organ (64) is a pinion and said rail is associated with a rack.

4. Reversing device (1) according to the preceding claim characterized in that said pinion is connected to said lower surface (63) via a gear.

5. Reversing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 characterized in that one edge of said plate (61) forms an arc of a circle.

6. Reversing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the support (4) of the framework (3) includes a third support surface (8), called "leg rest", juxtaposed to the second support surface (6), opposite the first support surface (5).

7. Reversing device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in thatthe support (4) of the frame (3) forms a chair, the second support surface (6) forming a seat, and the first support surface (5) forming a backrest.

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