UPPER BODY SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE DEVICE AND ACCESSORY EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A DEVICE

Abstract

The upper body support and stabilization device comprises at least one support and stabilization means (3D, 3G) for each forearm (4D, 4G). Each support and stabilization means (3D, 3G) is positioned angularly relative to the vertical within the device, and each support and stabilization means (3D, 3G) includes at least one support element for at least the thumb (P) of the hand (M) in a position where the longitudinal axis (A) of the forearm (4D, 4G), the wrist, and the fingers of the hand (M) are aligned in the same direction. The invention also relates to an accessory (2) equipped with the device. Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: UPPER BODY SUPPORT AND HOLDING DEVICE AND ACCESSORY EQUIPPED WITH SUCH A DEVICE

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for supporting and maintaining the upper body as well as an accessory incorporating such a device.

[0002] The term "upper body" includes the upper limbs and the upper part of a human being's body from and including the head to the navel. This therefore concerns, among other things, the upper limbs and the spine.

[0003] The term accessory, in the present application, designates both a garment, therefore a textile or composite piece based on one or more textiles and one or more other material(s) worn by a person, adult or child, either for aesthetic purposes, thermal protection, against bad weather or a means of carrying loads, for example a tool support harness, a backpack or other. It may thus be, for example, a protective garment such as a jumpsuit, a work blouse or jacket, a fireproof jacket, a back belt or other. This garment or textile piece may have a front opening such as a shirt, jacket, vest, coat, bathrobe, windbreaker, anorak, blouse or other or without a front opening such as a pullover, sweatshirt, polo shirt, T-shirt or other.Such clothing frequently includes one or more pockets whose dimensions and / or arrangement meet aesthetic and / or practical criteria, generally in terms of storing objects but unrelated to the biomechanics or posture of the wearer of the accessory. The means of carrying loads may, for example, be a travel bag, a backpack, a golf bag, a bag for transporting professional, leisure or medical equipment, a satchel or other.

[0004] For any person, it is accepted that it is necessary to have periods of relaxation of the dorso-lumbar spine and the pelvis but also of the cervico-dorsal spine, shoulders and upper limbs, both in standing and sitting positions, this in optimal conditions in order to relieve the person and recover from the biomechanical constraints of daily life, private or professional, knowing that these constraints can be harmful, particularly for the upper body. In other words, it is advisable to avoid having a prolonged standing or sitting position without a period of rest and / or recovery, the human body having to alternate phases of movement and rest in order to maintain optimal static and dynamic balance.

[0005] Unconsciously, we adopt primary reflex postures that relieve the upper body, and more particularly the upper limbs and cervical spine. This involves, for example, putting our hands in our pockets, crossing our forearms or resting them on the armrests of a seat. It is understood that, from a biomechanical and physiological point of view, these postures are not optimal, or even in some cases unsuitable, because they are performed in bad positions and / or with equipment unsuitable for this function and / or without learning and / or without control of the position and / or duration. As a result, they do not allow for ideal and complete recovery.

[0006] Devices for supporting and / or immobilizing the upper limbs are known, in particular orthotic-type forearms used for therapeutic purposes, for example in the case of medical or surgical pathologies of the upper body. Such medical devices aim to immobilize the upper limb or at least to limit the degree of mobility of the latter. These known devices have a duration of use adapted and limited to the therapeutic treatment concerned and do not allow normal activity. Also known from FR-A-3 079 136 is a posture-correcting orthosis comprising an adjustable band positioned around the person's thorax and equipped with adjustable straps for supporting the forearms.

[0007] There is therefore a need to enable a person to relieve their upper limbs, in all circumstances and whatever the person's position, without hindering the person's movements and by optimizing the rest and recovery periods by supporting each upper limb as a whole.

[0008] It is to this need that the invention proposes to respond by offering an accessory equipped with a device for maintaining the upper limbs allowing the support and maintenance of the whole of each of the upper limbs as well as the correction of the posture of the upper body, in all circumstances, while being easy to use by any person.

[0009] To this end, the invention relates to a device for supporting and holding the upper body of a person, said device comprising at least one means for supporting and holding an upper limb of said person, characterized in that said device comprises a means for supporting and holding the forearm of each upper limb of said person, each means for supporting and holding comprising at least one member for supporting at least the thumb of the hand of the upper limb of said person supported by said means for supporting and holding in a position where the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and fingers of the hand of the upper limb of said person are aligned in the same direction, when said person uses said device.

[0010] Thus, thanks to the invention, support or maintenance of at least one part of the upper body, namely one or two upper limb(s), is achieved in any circumstance in an easy manner, the person having an easily accessible means of support. Furthermore, the support is optimal, because it concerns not only a part of the forearm but the whole of it, the wrist and the fingers of the hand also being supported.

[0011] According to advantageous but not mandatory aspects of the invention, such a device may comprise one or more of the following characteristics:

[0012] The means for supporting and holding each forearm is a sleeve and the support member for at least the thumb is configured as a ring positioned in said sleeve.

[0013] Each sleeve is inclined so that, when the device is worn by said person, the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and hand of said person are aligned once the forearm is in the sleeve in a support position allowing muscular and osteoarticular relaxation of the upper limb, said axes then form an angle with an axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of the person of between 70° and 120°.

[0014] Each sleeve is inclined so that, when the device is worn by said person, the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and hand of the person are aligned once the forearm is in the sleeve in a support position allowing maximum muscular and osteoarticular relaxation of the upper limb, said axes then form an angle with the axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of between 80° and 100°.

[0015] Each sleeve is inclined so that, when the device is worn by said person, the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and hand of the person are aligned once the forearm is in the sleeve in a position allowing muscular and osteoarticular support of the upper limb, said axes then form an angle with the axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of between 45° and 90°.

[0016] Each sleeve is inclined so that, when the device is worn by said person, the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and hand of the person are aligned once the forearm is in the sleeve in a position allowing maximum muscular and osteoarticular support of the upper limb, said axes then form an angle with the axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of between 50° and 70°.

[0017] Each sleeve is inclined so that, when the device is worn by said person, the longitudinal axes of the forearm, wrist and hand of the person are aligned once the forearm is in the sleeve in a specific position allowing specific muscular and osteo-articular support of the upper limb, said axes then form an angle with the axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the lower arm at 45°.

[0018] Several support members of at least the thumb are provided in each sleeve.

[0019] Several support and holding zones for the forearm, the wrist and at least the thumb are provided in a sleeve.

[0020] A glove or mitten equips one end with at least one sleeve.

[0021] The invention also relates to an accessory equipped with a device conforming to at least one of the preceding characteristics.

[0022] According to advantageous but not obligatory aspects, such an accessory may comprise one or more of the following characteristics:

[0023] The accessory is a garment equipped, whether or not removably, with the device according to the invention.

[0024] the accessory is a means of carrying a load equipped, removably or not, with the device according to the invention.

[0025] the invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of non-limiting example and made with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0026] [Fig-1] is a simplified and partial perspective view of a person wearing an accessory, here a garment, equipped, in the external part of the garment, with a device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention,

[0027] [Fig.2] is a front view, on another scale, of the exterior of the garment of the [Fig.l],

[0028] [Fig.3] is a front view, similar to [Fig.2], of the inside of the garment of the [Fig.l] and

[0029] [Fig.4] is a side view and to another scale, of the outlet of a support means equipping the garment of [Fig.l].

[0030] [Fig.l] illustrates a person 1, adult or child, wearing a device for supporting and holding the upper body in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Here, the device equips an accessory, in this case the exterior of a garment 2 in which the device is integrated. To facilitate reading, the term device and the term garment will subsequently be used to designate the device for supporting and holding the upper body.

[0031] Here, the garment 2 is of the front-opening type, in this case a jacket. Alternatively, the garment is of another type, whether it is front-opening or not. As non-limiting examples, mention may be made of jackets, anoraks, parkas, blouses, vests, jumpsuits, bathrobes, coats, raincoats, pullovers, shirts, polo shirts, T-shirts, sports jerseys, sweatshirts or others provided that it is a garment covering at least the bust of the person, regardless of the material and / or the aesthetic appearance of the garment. It is easily understood that several garments equipped with the support and holding device according to the invention can be worn by the same person in one day, either successively or simultaneously, one over the other. For example, a person can wear a pullover under a jacket, both equipped with a device according to the invention. In [Fig.l], the device integrated into the garment 2 is equipped with support and holding means 3D, 3G respectively for the forearms 4D, 4G. The letters D and G allow the respective identification of the right and left forearms.

[0032] Here, the 3D, 3G means are fixed by sewing to the garment 2. Alternatively, they are fixed by another technique known per se, for example by gluing, welding or other. Alternatively, the support and holding means constituting the device are removably mounted on a garment. In such a case, they are positioned on the outside of the garment by known fixing means such as self-gripping strips, press studs, zippers, a magnetic connection or other. In the case of removable 3D, 3G means, this makes it possible to use the invention on an existing garment, or more generally an accessory. Alternatively, it is possible to removably fix the 3D, 3G means on the internal face 5 of the garment. In this case, it is appropriate to make advantageous entry and exit openings for the forearm in the garment, knowing that it is appropriate to have at least one entry opening.

[0033] Here, in the various figures, each 3D, 3G means is positioned, permanently, on the outside of the garment 2. An inlet 6 and an outlet 7 allowing the passage of a 4D or 4G forearm are provided and accessible from the external face 8 of the garment 2. Thus, no element of the 3D, 3G means extends onto the internal face 5 of the garment 2. To facilitate reading, the 3G means is illustrated in dotted lines, it being understood that in reality, it is not visible from the internal face 5 of the garment 2 when it is mounted on the outside of the latter. It is understood that, on a garment 2 according to this embodiment, only possibly the seams are visible on the internal face 5, provided that the 3D, 3G means are sewn and not glued or welded.

[0034] Each 3D, 3G means is configured as a sleeve, generally cylindrical with a circular base. Hereinafter, the term sleeve will preferably be used. Alternatively, the base of the cylinder constituting the 3D, 3G sleeve is oval or of another shape, for example rectangular, square, polygonal or other. The length L of each 3D, 3G sleeve is adapted to receive and support a forearm, 4D, 4G of either an adult or a child depending on the intended use of the device. Advantageously, the length L of the 3D, 3G sleeve is variable depending on the size of the user's limb, therefore de facto the size of the garment when the device is integrated into such an accessory. For example, for an adult, the length L, taken at the lower part of the 3D, 3G sleeve, therefore at the level of the support zone of the forearm 4D, 4G in the 3D, 3G sleeve is generally between 5 cm and 40 cm and in all cases adapted to the morphology of the person using the device which is the subject of the invention.

[0035] As is apparent from [Fig. 1], the opening 6 defining the entrance of the sleeve 3D or 3G is at an angle relative to the vertical when the accessory 2 is worn by a person 1 in a standing position. The opening 6 of the sleeve 3D or 3G is inclined towards the other sleeve 3G, 3D, to facilitate the insertion of the forearm 4D, 4G into the sleeve 3D, 3G. This has the effect that the length of the upper part of the sleeve 3D, 3G, therefore the part on which the forearm 4D, 4G does not rest, is shorter than the lower part on which the forearm 4D, 4G rests. Alternatively, the opening 6 and the outlet 7 of each sleeve 3D, 3G are parallel and substantially vertical when the garment 2 is worn by a person 1.

[0036] In another embodiment, the opening and / or the exit of one of the 3D or 3G sleeves are different from that(s) of the other 3G or 3D sleeve. Such a configuration is encountered for example with people having motor sequelae of the upper limbs. In another embodiment, the 3D, 3G sleeves communicate by one end and define a so-called kangaroo pocket. Alternatively, the 3D, 3G sleeves do not have an open exit end, they then have a configuration similar to a closed pocket. In another embodiment, the 3D, 3G sleeves are not inclined and are oriented generally parallel to the belt of the person when the latter wears the device.In this case, these are support and holding zones formed by internal arrangements in the sleeves which ensure the positioning of the person's forearms and hand, the sleeves then forming protection and / or external covering for these arrangements.

[0037] The interior of each 3D, 3G sleeve comprises at least one zone for supporting and holding the right 4D or left 4G forearm. When there is only one zone, it is the internal wall of the 3D, 3G sleeve. When there are several zones, the arrangements defining the support and holding zones are formed by sleeve portions or loops inserted longitudinally and, for example, one above the other in the 3D, 3G sleeve. Alternatively, the support and holding zones are removable and fixed in the interior of each 3D or 3G sleeve by means known per se such as self-gripping strips, snaps or zippers.

[0038] In all cases, regardless of the number of support and holding zones in the 3D, 3G sleeves, the length L of the 3D, 3G sleeves is adapted so that the front arm 4D, 4G of the person 1 using the device which is the subject of the invention is housed, on at least one part, supported and held in the sleeve, this leaving a possibility for the hand M of the person 1 to protrude through the outlet 7, this at least in part so that the person has, if necessary, free use of his hands M.

[0039] As is apparent from Figures 1 and 2, at least one thumb support member 9D, 9G P is positioned at the outlets 7 of each sleeve 3D, 3G. Here, to facilitate reading, the member 9D, 9G is illustrated beyond the outlets 7 of each sleeve. In the preferred embodiment, the members 9D, 9G are positioned so as not to be visible outside the sleeve 3D, 3G.

[0040] In [Fig. 2], another member 10D, 10G, similar here to the member 9D, 9G, is positioned directly above the latter. This member 10D, 10G can either serve as support for a finger other than the thumb P, for example the index finger, or be a support member for the thumb P but according to another configuration of the forearm, for example, according to another angular position for supporting or holding the forearm in the sleeve. Thus, whatever the means 3D, 9D, 10D, 3G, 9G, 10G used to support and hold a forearm 4D, 4G of the person and his hand M including at least his thumb P, an alignment of the longitudinal axes A of the forearm 4D, 4G, of the wrist and of the hand M and of the thumb P of the user is achieved in the same direction.Here, alignment of the hand means that the greatest length of the hand M, therefore the length taken between the wrist and the free end of the middle finger, is substantially in the extension of the longitudinal axis of the forearm 4D, 4G, the thumb P being substantially parallel to the length of the hand M in this configuration.

[0041] When the musculoskeletal system concerned is in an optimal relaxed position from a biomechanical and anatomical point of view, this makes it possible to optimize the support of the upper limb and therefore to relieve the entire upper body, in particular the cervical spine and the shoulder girdle in a corrected posture position. Here, support means providing non-restrictive support to the forearm without limiting its freedom of movement.

[0042] If we are looking for a position where the muscular and osteoarticular relaxation of the upper limb is effective and acceptable to the person, then the longitudinal axes of the forearm 4D, 4G, the wrist and the hand M are merged, aligned and designated by the reference corresponding to the axis A of the forearm. To facilitate reading, we will subsequently refer to the reference A to designate these merged axes. Here, the axis A is oriented in a direction close to the horizontal when the person 1 wearing the device is in a standing position. Thus, in this configuration, the angle formed between the axis A and an axis starting from the shoulder of the person in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of the person, therefore with the part of the upper limb between the shoulder and the elbow, de facto with the arm, is between 70° and 120°, preferably between 80° and 100° if maximum relaxation is sought.

[0043] If we are looking for optimal posture corrective support of the upper limb, therefore muscular and osteoarticular support of the upper limb, then the axis A of the forearm 4D, 4G, aligned with the wrist and the hand M, is in a direction where the person's thumb approaches the sternal manubrium. In this case, the angle A of the forearm with the arm, according to the definition given previously, is between 45° and 90°, preferably between 50° and 70° for maximum support. Here, the term "support" designates a position in which the limb has limited freedom of movement, its position being maintained regardless of the person's desire to change the position.

[0044] It is also possible to ensure muscular and osteoarticular support and maintenance of the upper limb in a specific position, for example when the person has an upper limb that has suffered trauma or a pathology requiring such a position, for example in the rehabilitation phase following trauma, a fracture, surgery with paresis or a lack of prolonged mobility. In the particular case of this specific position, the angle between axis A and the arm, according to the definition given above, may be less than 45°.

[0045] In all cases, thanks to the invention, it is possible for the person 1 to easily modify their position at any time, including the angle between the forearm and the arm, depending on the activities in progress and / or the circumstances. The device makes it possible to optimize the rest and / or recovery periods of the person, once or several times a day, or even permanently, depending on the user's needs. It has been observed that use of approximately 15 to 20 minutes ensures, depending on the position adopted, effective and lasting relaxation or support. The device can advantageously be used at work, at home, during transport or during a leisure or sporting activity, whether or not the person is outdoors and whatever their position, sitting, standing or lying down.

[0046] the device allows any gesture adapted to the needs of daily life, the fingers and therefore the hand M not being hindered and blocked. As a variant, it is possible to provide gloves or mittens, removable or not, at the level of the organs 10D; 10G according to the climatic conditions and / or the activity of the person. As a variant, pockets are incorporated inside the sleeve 3D, 3G.

[0047] An accessory receiving the device such as a garment may comprise only one sleeve, the other upper limb then being free for another function, for example carrying a load.

[0048] The accessory receiving the device, whether removable or not, may be a means of carrying a load such as a golf bag, a sports bag, a backpack, a hood, a bag, a medical belt, a sleeping bag, a carrying harness or other.

Claims

1. Claims Accessory (2) equipped with a device for supporting and holding the upper body of a person (1), said device comprising at least one means for supporting and holding (3D, 3G) an upper limb of said person (1), said device comprising a means for supporting and holding (3D, 3G) for the forearm (4D, 4G) of each upper limb of said person (1), each means for supporting and holding (3D, 3G) comprising at least one support member (9D, 9G;10D, 10G) of at least the thumb (P) of the hand (M) of the upper limb of said person (1) supported by said support and holding means (3D, 3G) in a position where the longitudinal axes (A) of the forearm (4D, 4G), the wrist and the fingers of the hand (M) of the upper limb of said person (1) are aligned in the same direction, when said person (1) uses said device, the support and holding means (3D, 3G) of each forearm (4D, 4G) being a sleeve and the support member (9D, 9G) of at least the thumb (P) being configured as a ring positioned in said sleeve (3D, 3G); , characterized in that each sleeve (3D, 3G) is permanently fixed to the accessory (2) and inclined so that, when the accessory is worn by said person (1), the thumb (P) of the hand (M) of each upper limb being in one of the support members (9D, 9G;10D, 10G) so that the longitudinal axes (A) of the forearm (4D, 4G), wrist and hand (M) of said person (1), are aligned once the forearm (4D, 4G) is in the sleeve (3D, 3G) either in a support position allowing muscular and osteoarticular relaxation of the upper limb, said axes (A) then form an angle with an axis starting from the shoulder of the person (1) in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of the person (1) of between 80° and 100°, or in a position allowing muscular and osteoarticular support of the upper limb, said axes (A) then form an angle with an axis starting from the shoulder of the person (1) in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of the person (1) of between 50° and 70°, or in a specific position allowing muscular support and specific osteoarticular of the upper limb of said person (1), said axes (A) form; then an angle with an axis starting from the shoulder of the person (1) in the direction of the elbow and longitudinally integrating the arm of the person (1) less than 45°, depending on the support organ (9D, 9G, 10D, 10G) used.

2. Accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that several support members (9D, 9G, 10D, 10G) of at least the thumb (P) are provided in each sleeve (3D, 3G).

3. Accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that several forearm support and holding zones (4D, 4G) are provided in a sleeve (3D, 3G).

4. Accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that a glove or mitten equips one end (7) with at least one sleeve (3D, 3G).

5. Accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a garment (2) equipped, removably or not, with a device according to the invention.

6. Accessory according to claim 1, characterized in that it is a means of carrying a load equipped, removably or not, with a device according to the invention.

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