Moving assist cart

Abstract

To provide a moving assist cart which enables improvement of usability of a tray.SOLUTION: A walking assist cart includes: a pair of left and right frame parts 11 extending in a vertical direction; a pair of left and right operation parts 21 which are provided at upper ends of the respective frame parts 11 and each of which has a handle 23 and a brake lever 24; and a tray 42 removably provided. Each frame part 11 may expand or contract in the vertical direction and height positions of the respective operation parts 21 may be adjusted through the expansion and contraction. Further, a height position of the tray 42 may be adjusted by means other than means for adjusting the height positions of the respective operation parts 21.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 18

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a transportation vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] As a mobility vehicle that assists the movement of people and luggage, walking frames that assist the elderly and others when they walk have been conventionally known. The walking frame includes a pair of left and right frame parts that extend in the vertical direction, and a pair of left and right handles provided on the upper end side of each frame part.

[0003] Some walking frames are provided with a tray on which objects can be placed, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. The walking frame of Patent Document 1 has a storage section provided forward of each frame section, and a tray is placed above the storage section. In this case, the tray is removable from above the storage section. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2018-164531 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] According to the walking frame with a tray of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, a user walking using the walking frame can put things on the tray and take things off the tray. In addition, with the walking frame with a tray, it is also assumed that the user will eat meals on the tray while sitting in a chair.

[0006] Here, when a user sits on a chair and eats on the tray, it is desirable for the tray to be in a low position. However, if the tray is in a low position, a walking user will have to bend down when placing items on or taking items off the tray, which is thought to make the tray less convenient to use.

[0007] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVETION The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and has as its main object to provide a transportation vehicle that can improve the usability of the tray. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above problems, the mobile vehicle of the first invention is a mobile vehicle comprising a pair of left and right frame sections extending in the vertical direction, a pair of left and right operating sections provided at the upper end of each frame section and having a handle and a brake lever, and a removable tray, and also comprising a first adjustment means capable of adjusting the height position of the operating sections, and a second adjustment means provided separately from the first adjustment means and capable of adjusting the height position of the tray.

[0009] According to the first aspect of the present invention, the height position of the operating unit can be adjusted by the first adjustment means according to the height of the user using the mobile vehicle. Also, the height position of the tray can be adjusted by the second adjustment means provided separately from the first adjustment means. In this case, the height position of the tray can be set high when the user is walking using the mobile vehicle, and the height position of the tray can be set low when the user is sitting on a chair and eating on the tray. This can improve the usability of the tray.

[0010] The mobile vehicle of the second invention is the same as the first invention, and further comprises a storage section provided below the tray and capable of storing objects, and the second adjustment means is capable of adjusting the height position of the tray relative to the storage section.

[0011] According to the second aspect of the present invention, the height position of the tray relative to the storage unit can be adjusted. In this case, by increasing the height position of the tray relative to the storage unit, the distance between the storage unit and the tray can be increased. This makes it possible to put objects in and take objects out of the storage unit through the gap between the storage unit and the tray, so there is no need to remove the tray or pull out the storage unit when putting objects in and taking objects out of the storage unit, making the storage unit easier to use.

[0012] The third invention is a mobile vehicle according to the first invention, wherein the first adjustment means adjusts the height position of the operating unit by extending and contracting the frame portion in the vertical direction, and the second adjustment means includes a pair of support parts provided on each of the frame parts and slidable in the vertical direction along the frame parts, and a tray frame provided across each of the support parts and supporting the tray.

[0013] According to the third invention, the height position of the operation unit can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the frame unit in the vertical direction. In addition, each frame unit is provided with a support unit that can slide vertically along the frame unit, and a tray frame that supports the tray is provided to span each of the support units. In this configuration, the height position of each support unit can be adjusted by sliding each support unit vertically along the frame unit, thereby adjusting the height position of the tray frame and therefore the height position of the tray. This makes it possible to adjust the height position of the tray relatively easily.

[0014] The mobile vehicle of the fourth invention is the same as that of the third invention, and further comprises a storage section provided below the tray and capable of storing objects, and a support frame supporting the storage section, the support frame being provided across each of the support sections or being integrated with the tray frame.

[0015] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the support frame that supports the storage unit is provided across the support parts or is integrated with the tray frame. In this case, the height positions of the tray and the storage unit can be adjusted together by adjusting the height positions of the support parts. This provides a configuration that is convenient for a user who uses the tray and the storage unit.

[0016] The movable vehicle of the fifth invention is the same as the movable vehicle of the fourth invention, in which the support frame is arranged to span each of the support parts, and the second adjustment means is capable of adjusting the height position of the tray frame relative to each of the support parts.

[0017] According to the fifth aspect of the invention, in addition to the tray frame, a support frame is also provided spanning each support section. Among these frames, the height position of the tray frame relative to each support section is adjustable. In this case, the height position of the tray relative to each support section is adjustable, and further, the height position of the tray relative to the storage section is adjustable. Therefore, it is possible to specifically obtain the effect of the second aspect of the invention.

[0018] A sixth aspect of the present invention is a mobile vehicle according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the mobile vehicle is a walking vehicle and the tray is disposed between the operating parts or between the frame parts.

[0019] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since the tray is disposed between each of the operating units or between each of the frame units, if there is an obstacle to the side of the walker, the operating unit or the frame unit will come into contact with the obstacle before the tray comes into contact with the obstacle, thereby making it possible to prevent the tray from interfering with the obstacle.

[0020] In addition, in the above configuration, the tray is disposed in a state where it extends further rearward than each frame portion, which makes it easier for a user using the walker, i.e., a user standing behind the walker, to place items on or take items off the tray, thereby improving the ease of use of the tray. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the walking vehicle according to the first embodiment, seen obliquely from behind. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] 1A and 1B are views of the walker as seen from the rear, where (a) shows the walker in an unfolded state and (b) shows the walker in a folded state. [Diagram 5]13 is a perspective view of the walking frame viewed diagonally from behind with the operating unit and the tray set at high heights. FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a perspective view of the storage section and the tray supported by the frame body, as viewed obliquely from above. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] 7 is a perspective view showing a state in which the storage unit in FIG. 6 is pulled out and the tray is lifted up. FIG. [Figure 9] 4 is a perspective view of the storage section and the tray supported by the frame body, as viewed obliquely from below. FIG. [Figure 10] An enlarged view of the area within frame A in Figure 6, viewed from the rear. [Figure 11] 1 is a perspective view showing the storage section, tray and frame body removed from the walking frame. FIG. [Figure 12] 13 is a perspective view of the walking frame seen diagonally from behind with the operating unit set to a high height position and the tray set to a low height position. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the upper part of the walking frame according to the second embodiment, seen obliquely from the front. [Figure 14] 14 is a perspective view showing the state in which the storage unit, the tray and the frames supporting them in FIG. 13 have been removed from the walking frame. [Figure 15] FIG. 2A is a perspective view showing a support frame, and FIG. 2B is a perspective view showing a tray frame. [Figure 16] 14 is a perspective view showing the state in which the tray and the tray frame in FIG. 13 have been removed from the walking frame. [Figure 17] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the state in which the tray in FIG. 13 is removed from the walking frame. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the upper part of the walker, where (a) shows the state in which the height position of the tray is lowered relative to the storage section, and (b) shows the state in which the height position of the tray is raised relative to the storage section. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] [First embodiment] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the mobility vehicle of the present invention is embodied as a walking vehicle for assisting the walking of elderly people and the like, more specifically, as an indoor walking vehicle for use indoors. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the walking vehicle 10 seen diagonally from the rear. FIG. 2 is a side view of the walking vehicle 10, and FIG. 3 is a plan view of the walking vehicle 10. FIG. 4 is a view of the walking vehicle 10 seen from the rear, where (a) shows the walking vehicle 10 in an unfolded state, and (b) shows the walking vehicle 10 in a folded state. In the following description, the direction of movement of the walking vehicle 10 when moving is defined as the front-rear direction, and the direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction is defined as the left-right direction.

[0023] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the walking frame 10 includes a pair of left and right frame sections 11 extending in the vertical direction, front wheels 12 and rear wheels 13 provided on the lower end side of each frame section 11, and a connecting section 14 connecting each frame section 11. Each frame section 11 is formed of a light metal such as aluminum. Each frame section 11 has a lower frame section 15 provided at its lower part and extending in the front-to-rear direction, and a vertical frame section 16 extending upward from a middle section of the lower frame section 15. The front wheels 12 are attached to the front end of each lower frame section 15, and the rear wheels 13 are attached to the rear end.

[0024] As shown in Figures 4(a) and (b), each frame portion 11 can be shifted between a separated state (the state in Figures 1 and 4(a)) in which they are separated from each other to the left and right, and a close state (the state in Figure 4(b)) in which they are close to each other to the left and right. Note that in Figures 4(a) and (b), the members around the connecting portion 14 that connects each frame portion 11 are partially omitted.

[0025] The connecting portion 14 is disposed between the vertical frame portions 16 of the frame portions 11, and is X-shaped when viewed from the rear. The connecting portion 14 has a pair of link portions 14a that intersect in the X shape, and a shaft portion 14b provided at the intersection of each link portion 14a. The shaft portion 14b extends in the front-rear direction. Each link portion 14a is rotatably connected via the shaft portion 14b. The connecting portion 14 can be opened and folded left and right by rotating each link portion 14a, in other words, the length in the left and right direction can be changed.

[0026] When the frame parts 11 are separated, the connecting parts 14 are unfolded to the left and right. At this time, the walker 10 is in the unfolded state (the state shown in FIG. 4(a)). When the frame parts 11 are brought close to each other, the connecting parts 14 are folded to the left and right. At this time, the walker 10 is in the folded state (the state shown in FIG. 4(b)).

[0027] In the present walker 10, the only members connecting the frame sections 11 are the connecting sections 14. Therefore, in the present walker 10, there are no members connecting the frame sections 11 at all in front of the connecting sections 14, and there are no members connecting the frame sections 11 at all behind the connecting sections 14.

[0028] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, an operating unit 21 is provided at the upper end of the vertical frame portion 16 of each frame portion 11. The operating unit 21 has an attachment portion 22 attached to the upper end of the vertical frame portion 16, and a handle 23 and a brake lever 24 supported by the attachment portion 22. The handle 23 is a portion that a user holds when moving the walker 10. The brake lever 24 is for performing a braking operation, and is disposed below the handle 23. The handle 23 and the brake lever 24 are attached to the attachment portion 22 in a direction that extends backward. The attachment portion 22 is formed with a handle 25 that is held when lifting the walker 10 over a step or the like.

[0029] In the present walking vehicle 10, the height position of the operation unit 21 can be adjusted according to the height of the user, etc. The following describes the configuration for adjusting the height position of the operation unit 21 with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of the walking vehicle 10 as seen obliquely from behind with the height position of the operation unit 21 set high.

[0030] As shown in Fig. 5, each vertical frame portion 16 of each frame unit 11 has a first frame 28 and a second frame 29. The first frame 28 and the second frame 29 are both formed into a cylindrical shape extending in the up-down direction. More specifically, each of these frames 28, 29 is formed into a rectangular cylindrical shape, and the length in the left-right direction is shorter than the length in the front-rear direction.

[0031] The lower end of the first frame 28 is connected to the middle part of the lower frame part 15. The second frame 29 is inserted from above into the inside of the first frame 28. The operation unit 21 is attached to the upper end of the second frame 29. The second frame 29 is vertically displaceable while inserted into the first frame 28. The height position of the operation unit 21 can be adjusted by displacing the second frame 29. In this case, the first frame 28 and the second frame 29 constitute a "first adjustment means" that adjusts the height position of the operation unit 21.

[0032] In addition, the vertical frame portion 16 (and thus the frame portion 11) can expand and contract in the vertical direction by displacing the second frame 29 in the vertical direction relative to the first frame 28. Therefore, the above-mentioned "first adjustment means" adjusts the height position of the operation unit 21 by expanding and contracting the vertical frame portion 16 in the vertical direction.

[0033] The second frame 29 is fixed to the first frame 28 by using a fixing screw 31 with a handle, with the height position of the operation unit 21 adjusted. The upper end of the first frame 28 is provided with a hole (not shown) through which the fixing screw 31 can be inserted. The second frame 29 is also provided with a plurality of holes 32 through which the fixing screws 31 can be inserted at predetermined intervals in the vertical direction. The fixing screws 31 are inserted into the holes of the first frame 28 and any of the holes 32 of the second frame 29, and the second frame 29 is fixed to the first frame 28 by fastening the fixing screws 31 in the inserted state. The fixing screws 31 are held in a state in which they can be fastened by a bracket 35 provided at the upper end of the first frame 28.

[0034] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, the walking frame 10 is provided with a storage section 41 capable of storing objects, a tray 42 on which objects can be placed, and a frame body 43 supporting the storage section 41 and the tray 42. The configurations of the storage section 41, the tray 42, and the frame body 43 will be described below with reference to Figs. 6 to 10. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of the storage section 41 and the tray 42 supported by the frame body 43, as viewed obliquely from above. Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the frame body 43. Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the storage section 41 in Fig. 6 with the storage section 41 pulled out and the tray 42 lifted up. Fig. 9 is a perspective view of the storage section 41 and the tray 42 supported by the frame body 43, as viewed obliquely from below. Fig. 10 is an enlarged view of the inside of the frame A in Fig. 6, as viewed from the rear.

[0035] As shown in Figs. 6 and 8, the storage section 41 is formed in the shape of a flat rectangular box that opens upward. The storage section 41 is formed of, for example, a synthetic resin. As the synthetic resin, a thermoplastic resin is preferable, and in particular, a general-purpose plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene is preferable. The storage section 41 has a rectangular flat bottom plate section 41a and a peripheral wall section 41b that rises upward from the peripheral edge of the bottom plate section 41a. A handle 44 is formed on the wall section on the rear side of the peripheral wall section 41b by partially recessing it downward. In addition, the length of the storage section 41 in the front-rear direction is longer than the length in the left-right direction.

[0036] The tray 42 is formed in a rectangular shape (rectangular shape) and is disposed above the storage section 41. The tray 42 has a rectangular flat plate section 42a and an edge section 42b rising upward from the peripheral section of the flat plate section 42a. The tray 42 is formed of, for example, a synthetic resin. As the synthetic resin, a thermoplastic resin is preferable, and in particular, a general-purpose plastic such as polyethylene or polypropylene is preferable. The upper end side of the edge section 42b of the tray 42 extends outward to form a flange section 42c. In addition, the length of the tray 42 in the front-rear direction is longer than the length in the left-right direction. The tray 42 and the storage section 41 are approximately the same in size in a plan view, and more specifically, the size of the tray 42 is slightly larger than the size of the storage section 41.

[0037] 6 to 10, the frame body 43 has a support frame 45 that supports the storage section 41, and a tray frame 46 that supports the tray 42. The support frame 45 has a frame main body 47 and a pair of rail portions 48 on the left and right sides.

[0038] The frame body 47 is formed of a metal bar or pipe material and has a rectangular ring shape in a plan view. The frame body 47 has a front frame portion 47a and a rear frame portion 47b extending in the left-right direction, and a pair of left and right side frame portions 47c connecting the ends of the frame portions 47a, 47b. The front frame portion 47a and the rear frame portion 47b are disposed at the same height position.

[0039] Each side frame portion 47c extends in the front-rear direction. Each side frame portion 47c extends upward further than the front frame portion 47a and the rear frame portion 47b, and has a mountain-like shape that is convex upward in side view. More specifically, each side frame portion 47c has a top portion that is a horizontal portion 49 that extends horizontally in the front-rear direction. In addition, a plate-shaped hanging portion 53 is fixed to each horizontal portion 49 in a direction extending downward.

[0040] Each rail portion 48 extends in the front-rear direction and is provided to span the front frame portion 47a and the rear frame portion 47b of the frame main body 47. Each rail portion 48 has two rail components 51, 52 extending in the front-rear direction. Each rail component 51, 52 is made of a long sheet metal member and fixed to the front frame portion 47a and the rear frame portion 47b of the frame main body 47 by welding. Of each rail component 51, 52, the rail component 51 is formed in a flat plate shape. On the other hand, the rail component 52 is stepped and has a Z-shaped cross section. As a result, a part of the rail component 52 is disposed above the rail component 51 and forms a rail groove 55 (see FIG. 10) that is open to the side between the rail component 51 and the rail component 51.

[0041] The storage section 41 is placed on each rail section 48. In this case, the storage section 41 is disposed between each side frame section 47c of the support frame 45. The storage section 41 is also provided so as to be able to be pulled out rearward from below the tray 42. The configuration relating to the pull-out will be described below.

[0042] A pair of left and right guide parts 56 guided by each rail part 48 is provided on the bottom surface of the storage part 41. In FIG. 9, the right rail component 51 is removed, which makes it easier to see the right guide part 56. The guide part 56 is formed in an elongated shape extending in the front-rear direction. The guide part 56 has an attachment part 56a attached to the bottom surface of the storage part 41 and an extension part 56b extending laterally from the lower part of the attachment part 56a. The guide part 56 is placed on the rail component 51 of the rail part 48, and in this placed state, the extension part 56b is inserted into the rail groove 55 of the rail part 48. This makes each guide part 56 guideable (slidable) in the front-rear direction along the rail groove 55, and thus the storage part 41 is slidable in the front-rear direction. The sliding allows the storage part 41 to be pulled out backward. When pulling out the storage part 41, it is possible to pull it out by holding the handle 44.

[0043] A screw portion 58 that is manually tightened is screwed into the rail component 51 from below. The screw portion 58 is disposed on the rear end side of the rail component 51. A long hole 59 (see FIG. 9 ) through which the screw portion 58 is inserted is formed in the guide portion 56 disposed above the rail component 51. The long hole 59 extends in the front-rear direction, and the screw portion 58 enters the rear end of the long hole 59. In this configuration, when the storage portion 41 is pulled rearward and the guide portion 56 is displaced rearward, the screw portion 58 is displaced forward within the long hole 59. In this case, the storage portion 41 can be pulled rearward until the screw portion 58 abuts against the front end of the long hole 59. In other words, the screw portion 58 functions as a stopper to prevent the storage portion 41 from being pulled too far rearward. If the screw portion 58 is removed, the storage portion 41 can be pulled rearward and removed from the frame body 43.

[0044] Next, the tray frame 46 that supports the tray 42 will be described. The tray frame 46 is formed from metal bars or pipes, and has a rectangular ring shape in a plan view. The tray frame 46 is fixed to each horizontal portion 49 of the support frame 45 by welding. In this way, the tray frame 46 is integrated with the support frame 45.

[0045] The tray 42 is placed on the tray frame 46. The tray 42 is disposed through the inside of the tray frame 46, and its flange portion 42c is placed on the tray frame 46. This allows the tray 42 to be detachably mounted on the tray frame 46. The tray 42 is also disposed above the storage portion 41 so as to cover the opening of the storage portion 41.

[0046] A recess 61 recessed downward is formed on each of the front and rear edges of the tray frame 46. Each recess 61 is further recessed inward in the front-to-rear direction. The flange 42c of the tray 42 is not placed on the area where the recess 61 is formed. This makes it easier to hold the flange 42c and therefore the tray 42.

[0047] This concludes the description of the storage section 41, the tray 42, and the frame body 43. Next, the arrangement of the storage section 41, the tray 42, and the frame body 43 in the walking frame 10 will be described with reference to Figs.

[0048] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the frame body 43 (specifically, the support frame 45) is provided to span the vertical frame portions 16 of each frame portion 11. The frame body 43 spans the upper end sides of each vertical frame portion 16. In this case, the storage portion 41 supported by the frame body 43 is disposed between the upper end sides of each vertical frame portion 16. This makes it easy for the user to use the storage portion 41. More specifically, the upper end of the storage portion 41 is located at approximately the same height as the upper end of each vertical frame portion 16.

[0049] The storage section 41 has an extension length L1 extending rearward beyond each vertical frame section 16 that is shorter than an extension length L2 extending forward beyond each vertical frame section 16. For example, the rearward extension length L1 is approximately half the forward extension length L2.

[0050] The tray 42 is disposed between the operation units 21. In this case, the user can easily use the tray 42. More specifically, the tray 42 is disposed such that its upper end is located lower than the upper end of each operation unit 21. The tray 42 has an extension length L3 extending rearward beyond each vertical frame unit 16 that is shorter than an extension length L4 extending forward beyond each vertical frame unit 16. For example, the rear extension length L3 is approximately half the front extension length L4.

[0051] The tray 42 is disposed above the connecting portion 14 that connects the vertical frame portions 16. In this case, the connecting portion 14 is disposed below the frame body 43 that supports the tray 42. The rear end portion of the tray 42 is located rearward of the connecting portion 14. In addition, the rear end portion of the tray 42 is located forward of the rear ends of the handle 23 and the brake lever 24 of the operation unit 21.

[0052] The frame body 43 is detachably attached to each vertical frame portion 16. The structure relating to the attachment and detachment will be described below with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a perspective view showing the storage portion 41, the tray 42, and the frame body 43 removed from the walking cart 10.

[0053] 11, each vertical frame portion 16 is provided with a support portion 63 that supports the frame body 43. Each support portion 63 has an insertion hole 64 through which the vertical frame portion 16 is inserted. Each support portion 63 is attached to the vertical frame portion 16 with the vertical frame portion 16 inserted through the insertion hole 64.

[0054] Each support portion 63 has a protruding portion 63a that protrudes inward in the left-right direction beyond the vertical frame portion 16. An insertion hole 65 into which the hanging portion 53 of the frame body 43 is inserted is formed in the protruding portion 63a of each support portion 63. The insertion hole 65 is a hole portion that opens upward. The hanging portion 53 of the frame body 43 is inserted from above into the insertion hole 65 of each support portion 63 (see FIG. 12). In this way, the frame body 43 is bridged across each support portion 63, and is also bridged across each vertical frame portion 16 via each support portion 63.

[0055] Each support portion 63 is provided with a fixing screw 67 that fixes hanging portion 53 inserted into insertion hole 65. Fixing screw 67 is a thumb screw. Hanging portion 53 is fixed by this fixing screw 67, thereby fixing frame body 43 to each support portion 63. Furthermore, when hanging portion 53 is released by loosening fixing screw 67, hanging portion 53 can be pulled out of insertion hole 65 and frame body 43 can be removed from each support portion 63. In this way, frame body 43 is detachably attached to each support portion 63, and ultimately to each vertical frame portion 16 via each support portion 63.

[0056] According to the above configuration, by removing the frame body 43 from each vertical frame section 16, it is also possible to remove the storage section 41 and the tray 42 supported by the frame body 43. In this walking vehicle 10, when the frame sections 11 are brought close to each other on the left and right sides to fold the walking vehicle 10 (see FIG. 4(b)), the frame body 43 is removed from each vertical frame section 16 before folding the walking vehicle 10.

[0057] In the present walking vehicle 10, the height position of the frame body 43 that is bridged between the vertical frame portions 16 can be adjusted. By adjusting the height position of the frame body 43, it is possible to adjust the height positions of the storage section 41 and the tray 42. Hereinafter, the configuration related to the height position adjustment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0058] As described above, each support part 63 is attached to the vertical frame part 16 with the vertical frame part 16 inserted into the insertion hole 64. In this case, as shown in Fig. 5, each support part 63 is attached to the second frame 29 of the vertical frame part 16 with the second frame 29 inserted into the insertion hole 64 (see also Fig. 12). In this inserted state, each support part 63 is capable of sliding up and down along the second frame 29. The height position of each support part 63 can be adjusted by this sliding movement.

[0059] Each support portion 63 is provided with a fixing screw 68 for fixing the support portion 63 to the second frame 29. The fixing screw 68 is a thumb screw. Each support portion 63 is provided with a hole portion (not shown) through which the fixing screw 68 can be inserted. The fixing screw 68 is inserted into the hole portion of the support portion 63 and one of the holes 32 of the second frame 29, and is tightened in the inserted state. In this way, the support portion 63 is fixed to the second frame 29 with its height position adjusted.

[0060] As described above, by adjusting the height position of each support part 63, it is possible to adjust the height position of the frame body 43 that is spanned between each support part 63. And by adjusting the height position of the frame body 43, it is possible to adjust the height positions of the storage section 41 and the tray 42. In this case, the support parts 63 and the frame body 43 are included in a "second adjustment means" that adjusts the height position of the tray 42.

[0061] In the example of Fig. 5, as described above, the height position of the operation unit 21 is set higher than in the example of Fig. 1. Also, in the example of Fig. 5, the height positions of the storage unit 41 and the tray 42 are set higher than in the example of Fig. 1, so that, as in the example of Fig. 1, the storage unit 41 is located between the upper end sides of the vertical frame units 16, and the tray 42 is located between the operation units 21. As a result, even in the example of Fig. 5, it is easy for the user to use the storage unit 41 and the tray 42.

[0062] Here, in the present walking vehicle 10, as shown in FIG. 3, the user U can sit on the chair I and eat or work on the tray 42. In the present walking vehicle 10, the user U can sit behind the tray 42 (in other words, behind the walking vehicle 10) and eat. When the user U sits behind the tray 42 in this way and uses the tray 42, the height position of the tray 42 is set to a low position as shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 12. Also, in the present walking vehicle 10, as described above, the rear end of the tray 42 is located behind the connecting portion 14 (see FIG. 1 and FIG. 2), so that the feet of the user U sitting behind the tray 42 are unlikely to interfere with the connecting portion 14. Therefore, it is easy to sit behind the tray 42.

[0063] According to the configuration of this embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be obtained.

[0064] Since the tray 42 is disposed between the operating units 21, if there is an obstacle to the side of the walker 10, the operating units 21 or the frame unit 11 will come into contact with the obstacle before the tray 42 comes into contact with the obstacle. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the tray 42 from interfering with the obstacle.

[0065] In addition, in the above configuration, the tray 42 is disposed in a state where it extends further rearward than each frame portion 11, which makes it easier for a user of the walker 10, that is, a user standing behind the walker 10, to place items on the tray 42 and take items off the tray 42. This makes it easier to use the tray 42.

[0066] Furthermore, in a configuration in which the tray 42 is disposed between the operation units 21, the user does not need to bend down when placing or removing an object on the tray 42. This makes it possible to improve the ease of use of the tray 42.

[0067] The tray 42 is disposed so that the extension length L3 extending rearward beyond each frame portion 11 is shorter than the extension length L4 extending forward beyond each frame portion 11. This prevents the tray 42 from getting in the way of the user using the walker 10. In addition, since the forward extension length L4 of the tray 42 is longer than the rearward extension length L3, the above-mentioned effect can be obtained while ensuring the width (size) of the tray 42.

[0068] Since the length of the tray 42 in the front-to-back direction is longer than its length in the left-to-right direction, it is easy for the user to sit at the rear of the walker 10 (in other words, behind the tray 42) and eat meals, etc. on the tray 42.

[0069] A means for adjusting the height position of the tray 42 (second adjustment means) is provided separately from the means for adjusting the height position of the operation unit 21 (first adjustment means). In this case, the height position of the tray 42 can be set high when the user is walking using the walker 10 (see FIG. 5), and the height position of the tray 42 can be set low when the user is sitting on a chair and eating or the like on the tray 42 (see FIG. 12). This can improve the usability of the tray 42.

[0070] The height position of the operation unit 21 can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the frame unit 11 (specifically, the vertical frame unit 16) in the vertical direction. In addition, each frame unit 11 (specifically, the vertical frame unit 16) is provided with a support unit 63 that can slide in the vertical direction along the frame unit 11, and a frame body 43 (specifically, the tray frame 46) that supports the tray 42 is provided to span each of the support units 63. In this configuration, the height position of the tray frame 46 and therefore the height position of the tray 42 can be adjusted by adjusting the height position of each support unit 63 by sliding each support unit 63 up and down along the frame unit 11. This allows the height position of the tray 42 to be adjusted relatively easily.

[0071] The support frame 45 that supports the storage unit 41 is integrated with the tray frame 46. In this case, the height positions of the tray 42 and the storage unit 41 can be adjusted together by adjusting the height positions of the support parts 63. This provides a configuration that is convenient for a user who uses the tray 42 and the storage unit 41.

[0072] Since the tray 42 is provided removably (attachable) to the walking frame 10, it is possible to remove the tray 42 from the walking frame 10 with an object placed on it and move it to a desk or the like. Also, the tray 42 with an object placed thereon can be moved from a desk or the like to the walking frame 10 (specifically, the tray frame 46) and placed thereon. Also, by removing the tray 42 from the walking frame 10, it is possible to fold the walking frame 10 in a stable state. Also, the tray 42 can be removed when cleaning, which is convenient.

[0073] [Second embodiment] In this embodiment, the walking vehicle has a function of being able to adjust the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41. The walking vehicle of this embodiment will be described below with reference to Figs. 13 to 15. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of the upper part of the walking vehicle 70 in this embodiment, seen obliquely from the front. Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing the storage section 41, the tray 42, and the frames 71 and 72 supporting them in Fig. 13, which have been removed from the walking vehicle 70. Fig. 15 (a) is a perspective view showing the support frame 71, and (b) is a perspective view showing the tray frame 72. In the following description, the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment are used for configurations common to the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted.

[0074] 13 and 14, the walking frame 70 of this embodiment includes a storage section 41 and a tray 42, similar to the first embodiment. The walking frame 70 also includes a support frame 71 that supports the storage section 41, and a tray frame 72 that supports the tray 42. In the first embodiment, the support frame 45 and the tray frame 46 were integrated, but in this embodiment, the support frame 71 and the tray frame 72 are provided as separate (independent) bodies.

[0075] 15(a), supporting frame 71 has the same configuration as supporting frame 45 of the first embodiment. That is, supporting frame 71 has a frame main body 73 and a pair of left and right rail portions 74 provided on frame main body 73. Frame main body 73 has the same configuration as frame main body 47 of the first embodiment, and rail portions 74 have the same configuration as rail portions 48 of the first embodiment. Also, a pair of left and right plate-shaped hanging portions 75 extending downward are fixed to frame main body 73, similar to the first embodiment.

[0076] As shown in FIG. 15(b), tray frame 72 has the same configuration as tray frame 46 of the first embodiment. Tray frame 72 has a pair of left and right side frame portions 72a extending in the front-rear direction. A plate-shaped hanging portion 76 extending downward from side frame portions 72a is fixed to each of side frame portions 72a. Hanging portion 76 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate (in other words, a band plate) extending in the vertical direction, and its length in the vertical direction is sufficiently longer than hanging portion 75 of support frame 71. Furthermore, tray frame 72 is disposed inside support frame 71.

[0077] As shown in Fig. 13, both the support frame 71 and the tray frame 72 are provided to span the vertical frame portions 16 of the frame portions 11 (see also Fig. 18(a)). The configuration in this regard will be described below with reference to Figs. 16 and 17 in addition to Fig. 14. Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing the state in which the tray 42 and the tray frame 72 have been removed from the walker 70 in Fig. 13. Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing the state in which the tray 42 has been removed from the walker 70 in Fig. 13.

[0078] 14, each vertical frame portion 16 is provided with a support portion 78 that supports the support frame 71 and the tray frame 72. Each support portion 78 has an insertion hole 79 through which the vertical frame portion 16 is inserted. Each support portion 78 is attached to the vertical frame portion 16 with the vertical frame portion 16 inserted into the insertion hole 79.

[0079] The mounting configuration of the support portion 78 to the vertical frame portion 16 is the same as the mounting configuration of the support portion 63 to the vertical frame portion 16 in the first embodiment. That is, each support portion 78 is mounted to the second frame 29 of the vertical frame portion 16 by using a fixing screw 81 (thumb screw) in a state where the second frame 29 is inserted into the insertion hole 79. Each support portion 78 is slidable in the up and down direction along the second frame 29, and the height position can be adjusted by the sliding movement. Then, in a state where the height position of the support portion 78 is adjusted, the fixing screw 81 is inserted into a hole portion (not shown) of the support portion 78 and (any of) holes 32 of the second frame 29 and tightened, so that the support portion 78 is fixed to the second frame 29.

[0080] Each support portion 78 has a protruding portion 78a that protrudes inward in the left-right direction more than the vertical frame portion 16. The protruding portion 78a of each support portion 78 is formed with a first insertion hole 83 into which the hanging portion 75 of the support frame 71 can be inserted, and a second insertion hole 84 into which the hanging portion 76 of the tray frame 72 can be inserted. The first insertion hole 83 and the second insertion hole 84 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction. The first insertion hole 83 is located on the outside in the left-right direction, and the second insertion hole 84 is located on the inside in the left-right direction. The first insertion hole 83 is a bottomed hole that is open only upward, and the second insertion hole 84 is a through hole that is open upward and downward.

[0081] 16 , hanging portions 75 of support frame 71 are inserted from above into first insertion holes 83 of each support portion 78. Each hanging portion 75 is fixed to support portion 78 in this inserted state. As a result, support frame 71 is bridged across each support portion 78, and is also bridged across each vertical frame portion 16 via each support portion 78.

[0082] It should be noted that hanging parts 75 do not necessarily need to be fixed to support parts 78, and may be unfixed to support parts 78. In that case, it becomes possible to remove support frame 71 from each support part 78 by pulling out each hanging part 75 from first insertion hole 83.

[0083] 17, the hanging portions 76 of the tray frame 72 are inserted from above into the second insertion holes 84 of each support portion 78. This allows the tray frame 72 to span across each support portion 78, and further across each vertical frame portion 16 via each support portion 78.

[0084] Each hanging portion 76 is fixed to support portion 78 by using fixing screw 86. Fixing screw 86 is a thumb screw. Fixing each hanging portion 76 with this fixing screw 86 fixes tray frame 72 to each support portion 78. Furthermore, when fixing of each hanging portion 76 is released by loosening fixing screw 86, each hanging portion 76 can be pulled out of second insertion hole 84 and removed from each support portion 78. In this way, tray frame 72 is detachably attached to each support portion 78, and further detachably attached to each vertical frame portion 16 via each support portion 78.

[0085] According to the above configuration, by adjusting the height position of each support portion 78, it is possible to adjust the height positions of the support frame 71 and the tray frame 72 that are spanned by each support portion 78. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to adjust the height positions of the storage portion 41 and the tray 42 by adjusting the height positions of each of these frames 71, 72. In this case, a "second adjustment means" capable of adjusting the height position of the tray 42 is configured, including each support portion 78 and the tray frame 72.

[0086] Here, the walking car 70 of this embodiment is further capable of adjusting the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41. In other words, in this walking car 70, the above-mentioned "second adjustment means" is further capable of adjusting the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41. This point will be described below with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a front view showing the upper part of the walking car 70, where (a) shows a state in which the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is lowered, and (b) shows a state in which the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is raised.

[0087] 18(a) and (b), each hanging portion 76 is inserted into second insertion hole 84 of support portion 78 and is therefore slidable (displaceable) in the up and down direction relative to support portion 78. By sliding each hanging portion 76, the height position of tray frame 72 relative to each support portion 78 can be adjusted, and therefore the height position of tray 42 relative to each support portion 78 can be adjusted. Furthermore, since support frame 71 supporting storage portion 41 is bridged across each support portion 78, in this case, the height position of tray 42 relative to support frame 71 can be adjusted, and therefore the height position of tray 42 relative to storage portion 41 can be adjusted.

[0088] The height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is adjusted with the fixing screws 86 loosened. After the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is adjusted, the fixing screws 86 are tightened to fix the tray frame 72 to each support section 78. As shown in FIG. 18(a), when the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is lowered, the storage section 41 and the tray 42 are arranged in close proximity to each other vertically. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 18(b), when the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage section 41 is higher, the gap between the storage section 41 and the tray 42 becomes larger. In the example of FIG. 18(b), the gap between the storage section 41 and the tray 42 is equal to or larger than the vertical dimension of the storage section 41. In this case, it is possible to put an object in and take it out of the storage section 41 through the gap between the storage section 41 and the tray 42.

[0089] According to the configuration of this embodiment described in detail above, the following excellent effects can be obtained.

[0090] As in the first embodiment described above, a means for adjusting the height position of the tray 42 (second adjustment means) is provided in addition to a means for adjusting the height position of the operating unit 21 (first adjustment means). This makes it possible to improve the usability of the tray 42, for example by setting the height position of the tray 42 higher when the user is walking using the walker 10, or by setting the height position of the tray 42 lower when the user is sitting in a chair and eating or the like on the tray 42.

[0091] The height position of the operation unit 21 can be adjusted by expanding and contracting the frame unit 11 (specifically, the vertical frame unit 16) in the vertical direction. In addition, each frame unit 11 (specifically, the vertical frame unit 16) is provided with a support unit 78 that is slidable in the vertical direction along the frame unit 11, and a tray frame 72 that supports the tray 42 is provided to span each of the support units 78. In this configuration, the height position of the tray frame 72 and therefore the height position of the tray 42 can be adjusted by adjusting the height position of each support unit 78 by sliding each support unit 78 up and down along the frame unit 11. This allows the height position of the tray 42 to be adjusted relatively easily.

[0092] A support frame 71 that supports the storage unit 41 is provided spanning the support parts 78. In this case, by adjusting the height position of each support part 78, the height position of the tray 42 and the height position of the storage unit 41 can be adjusted together. This provides a configuration that is convenient for a user who uses the tray 42 and the storage unit 41.

[0093] The height position of the tray frame 72 relative to each support portion 78 is adjustable. In this case, the height position of the tray 42 relative to each support portion 78 is adjustable, and further, the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage portion 41 is adjustable. Therefore, by increasing the height position of the tray 42 relative to the storage portion 41, the distance between the storage portion 41 and the tray 42 can be increased. This makes it possible to put objects in and take them out of the storage portion 41 through the gap between the storage portion 41 and the tray 42, so that when putting objects in and taking them out of the storage portion 41, there is no need to remove the tray 42 or pull out the storage portion 41, and the usability of the storage portion 41 can be improved.

[0094] [Other embodiments] The present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and may be implemented, for example, as follows.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the tray 42 is disposed between the operation units 21, but this may be changed so that the tray 42 is disposed between the upper ends of the frame units 11. In this case as well, the user does not need to bend down when placing or removing an item from the tray 42, making it easier to use the tray 42. The tray 42 may also be disposed between the frame units 11, below the upper ends of the frames.

[0096] The tray 42 does not necessarily have to be disposed between each of the operation units 21 or between each of the frame units 11. For example, the tray 42 may be disposed so that its rear end is located forward of the vertical frame units 16 of each of the frame units 11.

[0097] In the above embodiment, the second adjustment means is provided to adjust the height position of the tray 42, but the second adjustment means may not be provided. In this case, for example, by setting the height position of the tray 42 to a low position (the position shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 12), it may be possible to use the tray 42 even when the user is sitting down.

[0098] In the above embodiment, the extension length L3 of the tray 42 extending rearward beyond each frame portion 11 is shorter than the extension length L4 of the tray 42 extending forward beyond each frame portion 11, but this may be changed so that the rearward extension length L3 is the same as the forward extension length L4, or the rearward extension length L3 is longer than the forward extension length L4.

[0099] In the above embodiment, the user is allowed to sit behind the tray 42 and use the tray 42, but this may be modified so that the user is allowed to sit in front of the tray 42 and use the tray 42.

[0100] Some walking frames have a handle frame that is spanned across the upper ends of a pair of left and right frame parts. In such walking frames, the tray can be placed between the frame parts, making it easier to use the tray while preventing obstacles from interfering with the tray.

[0101] In the above embodiments, the mobility vehicle of the present invention is embodied as the walking vehicle 10, 70, but the present invention may be applied to mobility vehicles other than the walking vehicle 10, 70. For example, the present invention may be applied to a silver cart, a transport cart equipped with a table, a lodging cart, a commercial cart, a welfare cart, a medical cart, etc. The present invention may also be applied to a shopping cart used when shopping, or a box-shaped cabinet-like piece of furniture equipped with casters.

[0102] (Regarding other inventions extracted from the scope of disclosure of this specification) Hereinafter, inventions that can be extracted within the scope of the disclosure of this specification other than the inventions described in the Means for Solving the Problems section will be described, showing their effects, etc. as necessary.

[0103] (A-1) A pair of left and right frame parts extending in the vertical direction; A walker comprising: A walking frame, wherein the tray is disposed between a pair of left and right operating units each having a handle and a brake lever provided at an upper end of each of the frame units, or between each of the frame units.

[0104] According to the above configuration, since the tray is disposed between each of the operating units or each of the frame units, if there is an obstacle to the side of the walker, the operating unit or the frame unit will come into contact with the obstacle before the tray comes into contact with the obstacle, thereby making it possible to prevent the tray from interfering with the obstacle.

[0105] In addition, in the above configuration, the tray is disposed in a state where it extends further rearward than each frame portion, which makes it easier for a user using the walker, i.e., a user standing behind the walker, to place items on or take items off the tray, thereby improving the ease of use of the tray.

[0106] (A-2) A walking frame as described in (A-1), wherein the tray is positioned between the operating parts or between the upper end sides of the frame parts.

[0107] According to the above configuration, since the tray is disposed between the operation units or between the upper ends of the frame units, the user does not need to bend down when placing or removing an item from the tray, which makes the tray easier to use.

[0108] (A-3) A walking frame described in (A-1) or (A-2), wherein the tray is positioned so that the extension length extending rearward beyond each of the frame portions is shorter than the extension length extending forward beyond each of the frame portions.

[0109] According to the above configuration, the tray is arranged so that the extension length of the tray that extends rearward is shorter than that of each frame part. This makes it possible to prevent the tray from getting in the way of a user using a walking frame. In addition, since the extension length of the tray that extends rearward is longer than that of each frame part, the above effect can be obtained while ensuring the width (size) of the tray.

[0110] (A-4) A walking frame described in any one of (A-1) to (A-3), in which the length of the tray in the front-to-back direction is longer than the length in the left-to-right direction.

[0111] In a walking vehicle with a tray, it is assumed that a user will sit in a chair and eat or work on the tray (hereinafter referred to as "eating, etc."). In this case, in the above configuration (A-1) in which the tray is disposed between each operating unit or each frame unit, it is conceivable that the user will sit at the front or rear of the walking vehicle to eat, etc. In this regard, in the configuration (A-4), the length of the tray in the front-to-rear direction is longer than the length in the left-to-right direction, making it easier to eat, etc. on the tray. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 10...walking frame as a mobility vehicle, 11...frame portion, 21...operating portion, 23...handle, 24...brake lever, 41...storage portion, 42...tray, 43...frame body, 45...support frame, 46...tray frame, 63...support portion, 70...walking frame as a mobility vehicle, 71...support frame, 72...tray frame, 78...support portion.

Claims

1. A pair of left and right frame portions extending in the vertical direction; A pair of left and right operation units each having a handle and a brake lever, the operation units being provided at an upper end of each of the frame units; A movable vehicle comprising: A first adjustment means capable of adjusting a height position of the operation unit; A transport vehicle comprising: a second adjustment means provided separately from the first adjustment means and capable of adjusting the height position of the tray.

2. A storage section is provided below the tray and capable of storing objects.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the second adjustment means is capable of adjusting a height position of the tray relative to the storage section.

3. the first adjustment means adjusts a height position of the operation unit by expanding and contracting the frame unit in a vertical direction, The second adjustment means is A pair of support parts provided on each of the frame parts and slidable in the up and down direction along the frame parts; a tray frame that is provided across the support portions and supports the tray; 2. The vehicle of claim 1, comprising:

4. A storage section provided below the tray and capable of storing objects; A support frame for supporting the storage portion, 4. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the support frame is provided across each of the supports or is integrated with the tray frame.

5. The support frame is provided across the support portions, 5. The vehicle according to claim 4, wherein said second adjustment means is capable of adjusting a height position of said tray frame relative to each of said supports.

6. The mobility vehicle is a walking vehicle, 6. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the tray is disposed between the operation sections or between the frame sections.

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