Assistance equipment and assistance equipment set

Abstract

To provide a piece of assistance equipment that enables mobility and transfer assistance by solo assistance, by reducing a burden of a care-recipient and a care-giver to support an operation.SOLUTION: A piece of assistance equipment is provided with a mat part 1, a vest part 30, a shoulder belt 32 which is supported by the vest part 30, with both end parts connected respectively to the mat part 1, and a waist belt 31 which is formed continuously in one unit with the vest part 30. The mat part 1 protects a care-recipient while a care-giver can perform an assistance operation which reduces a burden by wearing the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31. A first mat part belt 28 having a connection part is sewn on in the longitudinal direction of the rear face 2b of the mat body, and is arranged to support at least the trunk and the thigh part of the care-recipient. The shoulder belt 32 which connects, to connection parts 10-13, carabiners 35, 36 that are installable to the two shoulder belts 32 and which is supported by the vest part 30 and freely movably housed, keeps a load balance with the mat part 1 and holds the care-recipient at the center of gravity, with mobility assistance made to be performed.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 16

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an assisting device and an assisting device set.

Background Art

[0002] In a life centered around a bed, the transfer of a care recipient who has difficulty standing or sitting from the bed to a vehicle or the like is extremely difficult and dangerous for both the caregiver and the care recipient, and it poses a major constraint on daily life. Conventional assisting devices have focused on placing the care recipient on a seat-like or plate-like object and moving them. The transfer from the bed to a vehicle or the like when going out and the transfer assistance to a narrow space require one caregiver and cannot be achieved by conventional techniques.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Patent Document 4

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In a life centered around a bed, the daily life of those who have difficulty standing or sitting is often restricted. In particular, "transfer" is extremely difficult and a major problem. If it were possible to transfer while lying down and both the care recipient and the caregiver could easily and freely go out, then transfer and going out would no longer be "special things".

[0005] As a problem in nursing care, there is "disuse syndrome". This disuse syndrome is a symptom in which, by spending most of one's life in bed, it becomes highly likely that one will fall into physical and mental discomfort due to mental stress without being able to change one's mood. Mental discomfort leads to physical discomfort, and physical discomfort leads to mental discomfort. The amount of exercise decreases, appetite drops, muscle mass decreases due to malnutrition, physical strength further declines, and one falls into a vicious cycle. When the care recipient's physical condition deteriorates, the caregiver also bears a mental and physical burden. When the caregiver's physical condition deteriorates, the care recipient is also affected. In this way, they influence each other and both fall into a severe situation, losing hope. Isolated from society, such as feeling lonely due to little communication with the outside world. Unable to move freely without being restricted by location or time. For both the caregiver and the care recipient, moving and transferring are physically burdensome. To go out, one has to use a nursing taxi, which is a large economic burden and makes it difficult to go out casually. When the means of transportation in case of poor physical condition is an ambulance or a nursing taxi, one hesitates to go to the hospital, and even if early detection is possible, it does not lead to early treatment. When there is a fear of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic or the like, one does not want to use a nursing taxi. As a social trend, there is a shift from hospitalization to home care, and efforts are being made to create an environment where people can live their own lives. However, it is difficult to improve the environment such as at home, and due to difficulties in moving, one's actions are restricted, and it is difficult to continue living in a familiar environment. With the declining birthrate and aging population, even if there are cohabiting family members, the caregivers within the family are limited, and there are not a few cases where one person is solely responsible for caregiving. The "caregiver depression" among caregivers providing home care is increasing.

[0006] Also, moving and transferring in a narrow space where there is no room for multiple people to hold is impossible without one person assisting. Assisting with movement in a narrow space such as getting in and out of a car seat or a wheelchair is extremely difficult and dangerous, and it is impossible for a single caregiver to assist the care recipient with moving and transferring. It is difficult to firmly hold and support a care recipient who has no place to hold on to. Assisting in an unstable and forced posture during moving and transferring assistance places a great burden on the body, such as shoulder pain and low back pain. There are steps both inside and outside the house, making it impossible for a wheelchair to pass through, and it is difficult to go out. For physically weak care recipients, the burden of moving and transferring is significant. Due to the unstable body posture of the care recipient, strong support by the grip strength and arm strength of the caregiver is required, and they feel a sense of compression and pain when being strongly held. Furthermore, there is no shortage of shaking and impacts associated with the assistance that requires strong force during transfer, and the care recipient feels pain each time.

[0007] Also, the caregiver needs strong grip strength and arm strength to prevent dropping the care recipient. Furthermore, during moving and transferring, there are many precautions such as preventing the care recipient's hands and feet from getting caught, hitting, or dropping around, and preventing the caregiver's own body posture from collapsing, which is dangerous. Unlike horizontal transfer assistance, the caregiver is involved in complex movements that require strong force, such as transfer assistance involving vertical movements, transfer assistance while holding, and movement in narrow spaces such as getting on and off in the corridors of the house or in a car, and movement between a car and a reclining wheelchair. Therefore, the burden on the body is large and dangerous. In particular, getting on and off the car seat while holding the care recipient places a great load on the caregiver, and since both hands are holding the care recipient, it is also impossible to support the unstable body posture by reaching out to the surroundings, which is dangerous. The fact that the caregiver's own body posture is unstable means that the care recipient is also in a dangerous state. These problems lead to difficulties in going out and restrictions on daily life.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above reasons, a long mat portion on which a care recipient is placed, a vest portion arranged on the back side of the caregiver, a shoulder belt that is long and has a central portion in the longitudinal direction held by the vest portion, and both end portions in the longitudinal direction are each connected to the mat portion, a waist belt that is formed continuously and integrally with the vest portion for fixing the vest portion to the caregiver, and is provided. The mat part has a first mat part belt that is sewn in an 8 - shape on the back surface of the mat part body so that two annular parts are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the mat part body, and two connecting parts are provided on each of the two annular parts. Both ends of the shoulder belt are respectively connected to the connecting parts. The part of the mat part body where the first mat part belt is sewn is, during use, an assisting device that is arranged to support at least the trunk and thighs of the person being assisted.

Effect of the Invention

[0009] The following points can be cited as a major difference from conventional assisting devices for movement. Conventional assisting devices focus on moving the person being assisted by placing them on a seat - like or plate - like object, and have not reached the point of protecting the body of the assistant, so the burden on the assistant has not been reduced. A large burden on the assistant means that the person being assisted also lacks safety. The assisting device of the present invention can protect the bodies of both the person being assisted and the assistant, reduce the burden, and enable a person who has difficulty getting into a standing or sitting position to move and transfer alone in a life centered on lying in bed. Furthermore, by taking advantage of its strength, it can also move and transfer in a narrow space that can only be achieved with one - person assistance. By doing so, the freedom to go out can be obtained, and an improvement in the QOL and an expansion of each possibility can be expected. These are areas that could not be achieved with conventional assisting devices for movement and transfer.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0011] The assisting device of the present invention provides an assisting device that enables stable and safe transfer assistance with single-person assistance by protecting the body of the person to be assisted and reducing the burden on the caregiver and supporting the movement.

[0012] First, the background and process of the assisting device of the present invention will be described. I used to move my mother, whose life was centered around lying in bed, by private car for monthly hospital visits except in emergencies and for hospital transfers day and night when her condition deteriorated. Among them, the transfer was a great burden on my mother, who had pain, and I, who assisted in moving while holding her, also had to pay various attentions so that my mother's body would not hit the surroundings, so that she would not fall, and so that she would not stumble. However, as my physical strength declined and I could no longer firmly hold my mother's arms around my neck, my mother's weight, which had not changed from before, felt extremely heavy, and it became difficult to assist in the transfer. In such a situation, when assisting in moving from the hospital back home and from the car to the bed, I had a scary experience of almost dropping my mother, and I felt the limit in assisting that required strong arm strength support. And in order to solve the most important and troublesome thing in the nursing life, I came up with the assisting device of the present invention.

[0013] Next, the assisting device of the present invention will be described. The assisting device of the present invention includes a long mat portion 1 on which the person to be assisted is placed, a vest portion 30 disposed on the back side of the caregiver, a shoulder belt 32 that is long and has a central portion in the longitudinal direction held by the vest portion 30, and both end portions in the longitudinal direction are respectively connected to the mat portion 1, and a waist belt 31 that is formed continuously and integrally with the vest portion 30 for fixing the vest portion 30 to the caregiver. The mat part 1 is sewn with an 8-shaped first mat part belt 28 such that two annular parts are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction on the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, and two connecting parts 10, 11 and two connecting parts 12, 13 are provided for each of the two annular parts. Each of the carabiners 35, 36, which are connecting tools provided at both ends of the shoulder belt 32, is connected to the connecting parts 10, 11 and the connecting parts 12, 13 of the mat part main body 2, and the portion of the back surface 2b of the mat part main body where the first mat part belt 28 is sewn is arranged to support at least the trunk and thighs of the assisted person during use.

[0014] The assisting device of the present invention lays the mat part main body 2 under the assisted person, wraps and protects the body of the assisted person with the wrapping cloth 9, and supports it on the surface like a hammock. The vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 support the operations of the assistant. The mat part 1 and the vest part 30 are connected to achieve a load balance according to the assisting operation. By adopting a structure in which the mat part 1 can be lowered from the shoulders, the assistant does not need strong support of arm strength or grip strength and can hold it with the large muscles of the whole body. Therefore, both upper limbs can be assisted without worrying about dropping them with auxiliary support. Also, in a scene where an unstable body posture is taken, such as releasing the left upper limb from the assisted person and supporting one's own body by putting a hand around, the assisted person can be gently transferred with slow movements. Since safe and easy transfer assistance can be provided, the mental and physical burdens on both the assisted person and the assistant are reduced.

[0015] In addition, a simple structure considering ease of handling enables a series of transfer assistance operations to be performed smoothly with intuitive handling, reduces the burdens on both the assisted person and the assistant, and avoids the risks associated with transfer and its assistance. It also enables everyone involved with the assisted person to handle it easily and can handle various transfers in all scenes from single-person assistance to multi-person assistance. In addition, the assisting device of the present invention minimizes the use of metal fittings and the like that may hit the body, get caught in the wheelchair, or become an obstacle during the movement assistance by multiple people, and does not use them in the mat part 1. Instead, they are concentrated on the shoulder belt 32. After separating the mat part 1 and the shoulder belt 32, only soft materials are left, allowing for a safe passage. Moreover, the assisting device of the present invention can be washed and handled hygienically. Also, it can be folded and stored compactly, making it easy to carry.

[0016] Next, the structure of the mat part 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 4. The mat part 1 is formed by a mat part main body 2 and a wrapping cloth 9. On the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, a first mat part belt 28 is sewn in a figure-eight shape such that two annular portions are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the mat part main body 2, and connecting parts 10 to 13 are provided on the first mat part belt 28. The first mat part belt 28 includes a thigh support portion 23 that extends in the short direction of the mat part main body 2 and supports the thigh of the assisted person, two waist support portions 24 and 25 that cross each other at the central part to support the waist, and a back support portion 26 that extends in the short direction of the mat part main body 2 and supports the back. Both ends of the thigh support portion 23 are respectively connected to one end of the waist support portion 24 and the waist support portion 25 via the connecting parts 10 and 11 to form one annular portion. Also, both ends of the back support portion 26 are respectively connected to the other ends of the waist support portion 24 and the waist support portion 25 via the connecting parts 12 and 13 to form another annular portion. Outside the portion where the first mat part belt 28 is sewn in the longitudinal direction of the back surface 2b of the mat part main body 2, second mat part belts 21 and 22 that support the head and feet of the assisted person are sewn in a circular shape, and handles 14 to 17 that serve as both ends are provided in two each on the two annular portions of the second mat part belts 21 and 22.

[0017] Four tongue pieces 3 to 6 that protrude outward are provided on the mat part main body 2 at positions that hide the connecting parts 10 to 13. The first mat portion belt 28 supports most of the weight, preventing the mat portion body 2 from digging into the body of the assisted person near the connecting portion when connecting the connecting portions 10 to 13 and the carabiners 35 and 36, thus protecting the body. Also, considering ease of holding, as shown in Fig. 6(b), when no recess is provided, digging in can be prevented, but when holding the assisted person, this part rises along the side surface of the assisted person's body (see Fig. 15), causing the tongue pieces to bend and interfere with assistance. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 6(a), by making a recess between the tongue pieces 3 and 4, and between the tongue pieces 5 and 6, the mat is prevented from bending when held, making it easier to hold. Taking a paper model as an example, it can be freely formed because there are cuts on the margins. By using this mechanism, the mat portion 1 can be changed into various shapes without bending, making assistance easier. Also, as shown in Figs. 3 and 6(a), the distance between the tongue pieces 5 and 6 provided on the side of the assistant is wider than the distance between the tongue pieces 3 and 4 provided on the opposite side of the assistant. By providing a space for the assistant to enter, it becomes easier to hold and assistance can be provided without interfering with the operation.

[0018] As shown in Fig. 1, the side portions 7 and 8, which are the both end edges in the short direction of the mat portion body 2, are curved so that the width in the short direction of the mat portion body 2 becomes narrower as they approach both ends from the central portion in the long direction of the mat portion body 2, saving the extra area of the mat portion body 2 and making it easier to hold. And it also contributes to the weight reduction of the appliance.

[0019] As shown in Figs. 1 to 3, on the surface 2a of the mat portion body, annular stitches 18a, 18b, and 18c serving as marks for the head, back, and thigh positions of the assisted person are formed in a state where the assisted person is placed at a predetermined position. Therefore, the direction of the mat portion 1 is clear and there is no confusion in handling. When placing the head so that it comes to the stitch 18a on the head side, the portion to be supported by the position of the first mat portion belt 28 is placed. In addition, the urethane foam 64 and the surface fabric 65 used for the mat part main body 2 are fixed by stitches 18a to 18d, strengthening the mat part main body 2. In addition, this serves as a fold line, making it easier for the mat part main body 2 to bend, easier to hold, and easier to store.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 5, the mat part main body 2 is provided with a swaddling cloth 9, one end of which is sewn on the opposite side of the caregiver to wrap and protect the body of the care recipient. The upper limbs, trunk, and lower limbs of the care recipient are integrally swaddled with a stretchy and soft fabric to prevent variations in the upper and lower limbs, eliminate collisions and snags with the surroundings during movement, and protect the body. Furthermore, the body wrapped in the swaddling cloth 9 is compact and less likely to lose its posture, so it becomes easier for the caregiver to hold, the load can be held at the center of gravity, and assistance can be provided in a natural posture. Also, by wrapping with the swaddling cloth 9, the body of the care recipient does not escape or fall on the opposite side of the caregiver, so the caregiver can concentrate on their caregiving actions. Also, when holding a care recipient who has no physical strength and has difficulty applying force throughout the body and has no place to grip, the caregiver needs to apply force so as not to drop them and balance, and additional force is required in places other than the weight. At this time, the care recipient feels a sense of compression and pain when being strongly held. Also, in such a state, the caregiver is forced into an uncomfortable posture and the load becomes even greater, which is very dangerous for both parties. By eliminating the "difficulty in holding" and making it easier to hold, even if the "weight" is the same, the "perceived weight" becomes lighter. Moreover, the pain of being strongly held by the care recipient is eliminated.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 2(a) is a view of the mat part 1 seen from above and through. The thin solid lines are the first mat part belt 28, the second mat part belts 21 and 22, and the high friction part 19 arranged on the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, and the thin dashed lines represent the sewn positions of each. As shown in the cross-sectional views of FIGS. 2(b) to 2(d), the stitches 18a to 18d on the front surface 2a of the mat part main body penetrate to the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, but the seam represented by the thin dashed line in FIG. 2(a), which is the sewn position on the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, does not appear on the front surface 2a of the mat part main body. Also, as a manufacturing process of the mat part main body 2, first, the first mat part belt 28, the second mat part belts 21 and 22, and the high friction part 19 are sewn to the back surface 2b of the mat part main body. Next, the surface fabric 65 is overlapped on the surface 2a side of the urethane foam 64 used for the mat part main body 2, stitches 18a to 18d are made, and the wrapping cloth 9 is sewn. Finally, when the peripheral part is sewn with the edge tape 66, the surface fabric 65 on the surface 2a of the mat part main body is pulled, and only the peripheral part of the mat part main body 2 rises. Thereby, the effect of making it easier to wrap and hold the body is enhanced.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a view of the mat part 1 seen from below with the assisted person placed thereon. The first mat part belt 28 includes a thigh support part 23 extending from one thigh part side of the assisted person, which is spaced apart from each other on the assisted person side on the back surface 2b of the mat part main body, toward the side opposite to the assistant side, and a back support part 26 extending from the back side of the other assisted person among the two locations toward the side opposite to the assistant side. The thigh support part 23 and the back support part 26 are sewn so as to be farther apart from each other as they are located on the side opposite to the assistant side, and are arranged so that when holding, the assisted person can be easily pulled toward the assistant side and stably held. Moreover, the thigh support part 23 and the back support part 26 are arranged at positions along both upper arms that the assistant hugs, and the assistant does not need strong support by both upper arms. Also, the thigh support part 23 and the back support part 26 are sewn so as to approach each other as they are located on the assistant side, and are arranged to prevent this from occurring due to the mat part main body 2 when hugging along the body width of the assistant, making it easier to assist. Also, the body has a density distribution depending on the part. The parts with a high density (46% of the trunk, 14% of the thighs) and both upper limbs 16% together account for about 76% of the body weight. However, as shown in FIG. 3, the part where the first mat part belt 28 is sewn is arranged to support most of the weight of the assisted person during use, so that the body posture of the assisted person is not easily disrupted and a stable holding feeling is enabled. In addition, the waist support parts 24, 25 are sewn crosswise to firmly support the waist of the assisted person from below, so that the waist can be prevented from sagging when held.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the seams of the first mat part belt 28 and the second mat part belts 21, 22 arranged on the back surface 2b of the mat part main body by broken lines. The vicinity of the part where the connecting parts 10 to 13 are provided in the first mat part belt 28 is detachable from the mat part main body 2. The thigh support part 23, the waist support parts 24, 25, and the back support part 26 are not sewn to the short-side end of the mat part main body 2, and a swing width is provided for the connecting parts 10 to 13 connected to the carabiners 35, 36 to move freely. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, when the carabiners 35, 36 and the connecting parts 10 to 13 are connected, the carabiners 35, 36 slide left and right, so that the connecting parts 10 to 13 also move left and right in conjunction. Due to this swing width, the carabiner 35L and the connecting part 10, and the carabiner 35R and the connecting part 12 can move left and right to move to the points on the body of the assisted person to be supported and hold. Similarly, by providing a swing width for the carabiner 36L and the connecting part 11, and the carabiner 36R and the connecting part 13 to move left and right, they can follow the body width of the assistant. Therefore, it can move along the body types of the assisted person and the assistant respectively, and stable assistance can be performed while maintaining the body posture of the assisted person. Also, as shown in FIG. 3, since the handles 14 to 17 are used during assistance by multiple people, the second mat part belts 21, 22 are sewn and fixed to the short-side ends of the mat part main body 2 to make them easy to grip.

[0024] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 37, on the back surface 2b of the mat portion main body, at positions corresponding to the buttocks and thighs of the person to be assisted, there is a non-slip portion composed of a high-friction portion 19 made of a non-slip fabric to prevent the person to be assisted from slipping and shifting together with the mat portion 1 when in a posture other than the full flat posture. Also, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 38, except for the high-friction portion 19, there is a low-friction portion 20 made of a slippery fabric so that the movement on the bed is smooth.

[0025] The first mat portion belt 28 and the second mat portion belts 21, 22 are each sewn with a single annular belt, maintaining the durability and strength of the belt.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3, at both ends in the short side direction of the mat portion main body 2, there are provided a total of 8 handles 10 to 17, 4 at each end. It is provided with connecting portions (handles) 10 to 13 of the first mat portion belt 28 and handles 14 to 17 of the second mat portion belts 21, 22, enabling assistance by multiple people such as horizontal transfer and lifting and lowering transfer (FIGS. 38, 39).

[0027] As shown in FIG. 3, all of the handles 10 to 17 are the same distance from the longitudinal center line of the mat portion main body 2 toward both ends. Since the assisting device of the present invention enables assistance by one person and multiple people, the length of the handle is important. If the handle is too long, when assisting one person, there is a risk that the handles 14 to 17 will hang down from the mat portion main body 2 and get caught on surrounding objects, interfering with the assistance. Also, when assisting multiple people, a strong force from the assistants is required. Also, considering the balance of the length with the shoulder belt 32 when connecting to the carabiners 35, 36, the connecting portions (handles) 10 to 13 and the handles 14 to 17 are of lengths that take into account the assistants.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 3, the ends of the tongue pieces 3 and 4 protrude parallel to the longitudinal center line of the mat portion main body 2. Also, the ends of the tongue pieces 5 and 6 do not protrude parallel to the longitudinal center line of the mat portion main body 2, but are cut obliquely to omit the unnecessary portions of the mat portion main body 2, facilitating the operation of connecting and disconnecting the carabiner 36 (R, L) to and from the connecting portions 11 and 13 by the caregiver.

[0029] Next, the materials suitable for the structure of the mat portion 1 will be described. The mat portion main body 2 uses urethane foam 64 with a thickness of about 10 mm, and a surface fabric 65, which is a material with a good texture that is non-slip, breathable, and has a moisture absorption and release function, is used for the surface 2a of the mat portion main body. Also, for the high friction portion 19 disposed on the back surface 2b of the mat portion main body, a fabric with anti-slip processing is used, and for the low friction portion 20, which is the portion other than the high friction portion 19, a fabric that is slippery and resistant to friction, such as a tricot material used for stockings or the inside of shoes, is used. The plush cloth 9 is formed of a material with a good texture, elasticity, breathability, and a moisture absorption and release function, and for the first mat portion belt 28 and the second mat portion belts 21 and 22 disposed on the back surface 2b of the mat portion main body, a material similar to a sheet belt with a width of about 50 mm is used.

[0030] The effects obtained by taking advantage of the characteristics of each material used for the mat portion 1 will be described. The urethane foam 64 used for the mat portion main body 2 has cushioning properties, breathability, and flexibility. It is light and has a good texture with appropriate firmness and thickness. Therefore, it can gently support the care recipient, allowing them to transfer without worrying about the shape and hardness of the transfer destination, absorb vibrations and impacts, protect the body, and enable a comfortable life. For example, the transfer destination can be various, such as an examination table, a car seat, a reclining wheelchair, a stretcher, etc., which reduces the vibration to the body of the person being assisted during transfer with horizontal or vertical movement. Further, the mat part main body 2 can be flexibly deformed according to the shape (concave-convex surface and width) of the transfer destination, protecting the body without impairing comfort. Also, it alleviates the burden on the buttocks where pressure is applied during reclining. In cold seasons, when transferring while placed on the mat part main body 2 on a reclining wheelchair or the like where the seat surface is cold and hard, it also provides cold protection. Also, for one-person assistance, from the perspective of ease of handling, the mat part main body 2 needs to have flexibility, appropriate firmness, and thickness. It is easy to lay under and remove from under the person being assisted. Also, during transfer or movement, the mat part main body 2 can assist without losing its shape. Cloth-like materials are not suitable because their shape collapses when lifted, making it difficult to assist and requiring re-arrangement each time there is a transfer.

[0031] The material with good texture that is non-slip, breathable, has moisture absorption and release functions, and is used for the surface fabric 65 of the mat part main body surface 2a prevents the person being assisted from slipping and sliding down during reclining, allowing them to spend a comfortable long time in bed. The anti-slip processed fabric used for the high-friction part 19 of the mat part main body back surface 2b prevents the mat part 1 from slipping and sliding off the seat surface when on a car or reclining wheelchair, etc. (Figure 37). Also, the tricot material with strong friction resistance and easy-sliding characteristics used for the low-friction part 20 of the mat part main body back surface 2b allows for easy and smooth pulling and horizontal transfer on the bed, reducing the burden on the person being assisted and the caregiver (Figure 38).

[0032] The light material with moisture absorption and release functions, softness, stretchability, breathability, and good texture used for the walnut cloth 9 prevents stuffiness, can wrap the body of the person being assisted without squeezing or causing a sense of compression, allowing them to spend a comfortable posture.

[0033] Durable and flexible materials such as seat belts used for the first mat part belt 28 and the second mat part belts 21 and 22 can conform well to the body, prevent digging into the body, and provide a firm and stable holding feeling. Also, as the connecting parts (handles) 10 to 13 and the handles 14 to 17, they can be easily processed and held without pain.

[0034] Next, the structures of the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the vest part 30 worn by the caregiver includes shoulder belts 32 and is integrally formed with the waist belt 31.

[0035] The vest part 30, when worn by the caregiver, includes a back covering part 42 that covers the caregiver's back and two shoulder covering parts 41 that extend from two locations of the back covering part 42 to cover both shoulders of the caregiver, covering and protecting the caregiver's shoulders and back and reducing the load on the care recipient. The back covering part 42 has left and right shoulder side openings 43(R, L) and left and right side openings 44(R, L) for passing the shoulder belts 32 from the left and right shoulder sides to the left and right side sides of the caregiver when the vest part 30 is worn by the caregiver. Also, the width of the left and right side openings 44(R, L) has a swing width such that the shoulder belts 32 can move freely up, down, left, and right, and it is preferably 1.5 times or more the width of the shoulder belts 32. Thereby, according to various movements and postures of the caregiver holding the care recipient placed on the mat part 1, the shoulder belts 32 connected to the mat part 1 can move up, down, left, and right, maintaining the load balance, enhancing the stability of a series of movements of the caregiver, and enabling the care recipient to transfer stably.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 11(b), the covering portion 42 includes an inner sheet 29b on the side that contacts the back of the caregiver when the vest portion 30 is worn by the caregiver, and an outer sheet 29a that is overlapped to cover the inner sheet 29b from the side opposite to the side that contacts the caregiver in the inner sheet 29b, and is sewn to the inner sheet 29b over the entire portion except for the portions corresponding to the openings 43 and 44 in the peripheral portion. Stitches 47 and 48 are formed by sewing the inner sheet 29b and the outer sheet 29a together so as to restrict the movement of the portion intervening between the inner sheet 29b and the outer sheet 29a in the shoulder belt 32. Thereby, while maintaining the swing range in which the shoulder belt 32 can move freely up, down, left, and right, the crossing portion (passage) is restricted so as not to twist or flail, making it easier to grasp the carabiner 36 and improving the operability. Also, by applying the stitches 47 and 48, the vest portion 30 is strengthened. If, as shown in FIG. 11(c), the shoulder belt is restricted only at the crossing portion, the wearer cannot see the back side (back side) of himself / herself during the wearing of the vest portion, cannot adjust the shoulder belt, the shoulder belt moves too much and it is difficult to grasp the carabiner, or the shoulder belt is twisted and the carabiner is connected, etc., making it difficult to handle and a series of assisting operations difficult. Also, due to the structure, the movement of the shoulder belt connected to the mat portion by the assisting operation is concentrated at the crossing portion, which may cause damage.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 11(a), the length adjusting fitting 37 is disposed at a position overlapping the shoulder covering portion 41, and a detachment preventing portion 45 is provided at a position separated from the covering portion 42 in the shoulder covering portion 41 to prevent the shoulder belt 32 from detaching from the position where it overlaps the shoulder covering portion 41. This can prevent the shoulder belt from coming off and also prevent the length adjusting fitting 37 from directly touching the caregiver. In addition, since having a fitting (hard object) in front of the person being assisted may be scary for the person being assisted, it has a shape that takes such uneasiness into consideration.

[0038] As shown in FIGS. 7 and 11, an opening 49 is provided that does not cover the shoulder belt 32 between the outer sheet 29a and the anti-disengagement portion 45 in the best part 30. Further, by forming a curved portion 46 having a shape along the shoulder, it can follow the roundness before and after the shoulder and the inclination of the shoulder, and the shoulder covering portion 41 can assist without shifting from the shoulder with respect to the movement of the shoulder. Also, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, due to the curved portion 46 and the opening 49, while following the shape of the shoulder, the shoulder covering portion 41 is more likely to face the direction of the connecting portions 10 and 12 of the mat portion main body 2. If the opening 49 is not provided and the curved portion 46 extends straight, the fitting feeling of the shoulder during connection to the mat portion main body 2 will decrease and the assisting operation will become difficult.

[0039] There are two shoulder belts 32, and they are held by the best part 30 so as to cross each other at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of each shoulder belt 32. As shown in FIG. 10, the shoulder belt 32 is long, a carabiner 36 is attached to one end portion in the longitudinal direction, and a first sub-belt 34 with a length adjusting fitting 37 attached to the other end portion, and a carabiner 35 is attached to one end portion in the longitudinal direction, and the other end is held by the length adjusting fitting 37. It is composed of a second sub-belt 33 whose length can be changed by changing the portion held by the length adjusting fitting 37. Also, the shoulder belt 32 can be attached with carabiners of two colors, blue and red. The shoulder belt 32R is provided with a blue carabiner 35R and a red carabiner 36L. The blue carabiner 35R is connected to the connecting portion 12 of the mat portion main body 2, and the red carabiner 36L is connected to the connecting portion 11 of the mat portion main body 2. Similarly, the shoulder belt 32L is provided with a blue carabiner 35L and a red carabiner 36R. The blue carabiner 35L is connected to the connecting portion 10 of the mat portion main body 2, and the red carabiner 36R is connected to the connecting portion 13 of the mat portion main body 2 (see FIG. 4).

[0040] As shown in FIG. 7, the shoulder belt 32R passes through the anti-disengagement portion 45R on the right chest side of the assistant, passes through the opening 43R on the right shoulder side into the covering portion 42 (between the outer sheet 29a and the inner sheet 29b), and is drawn out to the opening 44L on the left side. Similarly, the shoulder belt 32L passes through the anti-disengagement portion 45L on the left chest side, passes through the opening 43L on the left shoulder side into the covering portion 42, and is drawn out to the opening 44R on the right side. These two shoulder belts 32(R,L) cross each other inside the covering portion 42.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 11(b), the shoulder belts 32 cross each other on the back of the assistant inside the covering portion 42, dispersing the burden on the shoulders. In addition, the waist belt 31 reduces the burden on the waist. Therefore, stable transfer assistance can be performed while maintaining a natural body posture. Also, since the shoulder belt 32 is not sewn (fixed) and can move freely, it can be adjusted separately for the left and right sides, and can move forward, backward, left, and right respectively in response to various movements and body postures of the assistant, maintaining the load balance with the mat portion 1 on which the assisted person is placed. By doing so, the stability of a series of operations is enhanced. Also, although the shoulder belt 32 can move freely without being fixed, in order to maintain the balance with the mat portion 1 during transfer assistance, a high-friction material is used on the inner sheet 29b side inside the covering portion 42 so that the shoulder belt 32 does not slide too much back and forth on the assistant. When the load of the assisted person is applied, the shoulder belt 32 is less likely to slide back and forth on the assistant, and the balance with the mat portion 1 during transfer assistance can be maintained.

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11(a), the length adjustment of the shoulder belt 32 by the length adjustment fittings 37 provided on each of the shoulder belts 32 is performed only at two locations of the length adjustment fittings 37 in front of the chest of the assistant, and the length can be adjusted to a length that is easy for the assistant to hold, and assistance can be performed while maintaining a comfortable posture. As shown in FIGS. 10(d) and (e), the length adjustment of the shoulder belt 32 is performed by the second sub-belt 33 and the length adjustment fitting 37. As shown in Fig. 10(d), when the tip of the length adjustment fitting 37 is lifted in the direction of the arrow and the side where the blue carabiner 35 of the second sub-belt 33 is attached is pulled, the shoulder belt 32 becomes longer, and when the side where the annular rubber 38 of the second sub-belt 33 is attached is pulled, the shoulder belt 32 becomes shorter. Then, when the hand is released from the length adjustment fitting 37, it enters a locked state, and the length suitable for the caregiver himself / herself can be maintained.

[0043] Also, as shown in Figs. 10(b) and (c), an annular rubber 38 is attached to the other end of the second sub-belt 33 to hold the portion on the other end side of the second sub-belt 33 in a bent state, which is held by the length adjustment fitting 37 in the second sub-belt 33. This allows the extra second sub-belt 33 when the length of the shoulder belt 32 is adjusted shorter to be wound up and fixed, smoothing the assisting operation. Furthermore, as shown in Figs. 10 and 12, an annular rubber 40 is provided, which is fixed to the end of the first sub-belt 34 on the side where the carabiner 36 is provided and is connected to the hook portion 53 provided on the waist belt 31, preventing the red carabiner 36 from entering into the covering portion 42. Also, the annular rubber 40 has one button and several button holes at equal intervals for passing the button, and the length of the annular rubber 40 can be adjusted for easy handling by the caregiver.

[0044] As shown in Fig. 10, the gripping portion 39, which is formed in an easy-to-grip shape at the end of the first sub-belt 34 on the side where the carabiner 36 is provided, is shaped to match the hand orientation when gripping the red carabiners 36 (R, L) with the vest portion 30 and the waist belt 31 worn by the caregiver, making it easier to grip and handle the red carabiners 36 (R, L).

[0045] With the vest portion 30 worn by the caregiver, the inner sheet 29b on the side that contacts the back of the vest portion 30 further includes a waist belt support portion 55 that swingably supports the waist belt 31. As shown in Fig. 9, the waist belt 31 is integrally formed continuously with a waist belt support portion 55 provided on the inner sheet 29b on the side that contacts the back of the caregiver, and hangs down from the inner sheet 29b on the side that contacts the back of the caregiver. Therefore, the vest portion 30 and the waist belt 31 can move separately, and the vest portion 30 is less likely to be affected by the movement of the upper body and the lower body, and can correspond to various movements of the caregiver without shifting. In addition, by using an elastic material for the waist belt support portion 55, it becomes possible to further correspond to the movement of the body back and forth, left and right. In addition, since the vest portion 30 is not affected by the movement of the caregiver, a simple structure that only needs to be placed on the shoulders without the need for a belt or the like for fixing to the body of the caregiver becomes possible.

[0046] As shown in Fig. 11(a), the waist belt 31 has a shape in which both ends are located below the navel of the caregiver when worn, and the upper end of the waist belt 31 is worn below the position of the navel, thereby preventing compression of the stomach during forward bending, and having a wide range of movement of the waist without hindering the movement, so that assistance can be provided.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 8, the waist belt 31 is composed of a lumbar support portion 50a using a hard non-elastic mesh material on the back, a displacement prevention portion 51 using an elastic material with an anti-slip function on the ventral side, and a front alignment portion 52 using a non-elastic and thick soft material on the abdomen, and is worn from above the clothes with a corset-like feeling. Since the front alignment portion 52 is fastened with the surface fastener 56, it can be easily worn and removed. In addition, the surface fastener 56 can be adjusted according to the body type, so it fits the body, prevents the body from wobbling during assistance, and supports the movement while reducing the burden on the waist. In addition, as shown in Fig. 8(b), the inner side 31b of the waist belt is provided with anti-slip to prevent differences in body type and displacement of the waist belt 31 during assistance. It is provided with a displacement prevention portion 51 on the ventral side of the waist belt and a displacement prevention portion 50b using a displacement prevention material on the back.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 12, the waist belt 31 is provided with a hook portion 53 for hooking the carabiners 35 and 36 to prevent the shoulder belt 32 from falling out of the vest portion 30. By being hooked to the hook portion 53, the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) are arranged so that an assistant can easily operate the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) when connecting to the connecting portions 10 and 12 and so that they do not hit the care recipient. Also, since the red carabiners 36 (R, L) are hooked to the hook portion 53 by the annular rubber 40, they do not fully enter the covering portion 42. However, even if it becomes difficult to grasp the red carabiners 36 (R, L) when they are about to enter, the annular rubber 40 can be pulled closer and held, so they may or may not be hooked to the hook portion 53. In addition, the assisting tool of the present invention is used with the annular rubber 40 hooked to the hook portion 53. However, during washing, it is removed from the hook portion 53, the shoulder belt 32 is removed from the vest portion 30, and when the carabiners 35 and 36 are removed from the shoulder belt 32, the shoulder belt 32 can also be washed.

[0049] By integrating the vest portion 30 with the waist belt 31, the wearing feeling of the vest portion 30 is stabilized. In addition, since the load of the care recipient is applied to the shoulder belt 32 and presses the vest portion 30, it becomes even more stable. Therefore, the structure of the vest portion 30 can be simplified to only placing it on the shoulders, enabling simple handling.

[0050] The vest portion 30 does not tighten the assistant's body like a supporter to assist in movement. On the contrary, it is designed to be open and not interfere with a continuous series of movements in all body postures during assistance. By adjusting the length of the shoulder belt 32, the assistant can pull and hold the care recipient in their natural posture. Therefore, the part of the assistant's body that needs to be supported is the waist, and the waist belt 31 prevents the waist from wobbling, reducing the burden and assisting in movement. Furthermore, by doing so, the large muscles in the lower limbs of the assistant can be used efficiently, further reducing the burden on the waist. Also, as shown in FIG. 13, the vest part 30 serves as a fulcrum and maintains balance with the mat part 1 under the action of gravity. It is possible to maintain the load balance corresponding to a series of operations from the state where the assisted person during movement assistance is pulled closer and in contact with the assistant (FIG. 13(a)) to the operation of separating (placing) the assisted person from the assistant during transfer (FIG. 13(b)). Also, as shown in FIG. 13(b), in the scene of bending forward, the assisted person is not in contact with the assistant's body, and the assistant's waist is burdened. At such times, in order to support their own body, the assistant releases the left upper limb from the assisted person, holds their hand or grabs the surroundings, thereby reducing the burden on the waist and enabling the assisted person to be transferred slowly.

[0051] Next, the materials suitable for the structure of the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 will be described. The inner sheet 29b of the vest part 30 uses urethane foam 64 with a thickness of about 10 mm. The waist belt support part 55 is formed of a material that has a good texture, stretchability, breathability, and moisture absorption and release function, the same material as the walnut cloth 9. The shoulder belt 32 is formed of a material such as a sheet belt with a width of about 50 mm, the same material as the first mat part belt 28 and the second mat part belts 21, 22. The length adjustment fitting 37 uses a fitting used in mountain climbing harnesses, etc. The carabiners 35, 36 use those used in mountain climbing, climbing, etc. The waist belt 31 uses a hard non-stretchable mesh material for the waist rest part 50a, a displacement prevention material for the displacement prevention part 50b, a stretchable material with a non-slip function on both sides for the displacement prevention part 51 on the ventral side, and a non-stretchable, thick, soft material for the front alignment part 52.

[0052] The effects obtained by taking advantage of the characteristics of each material used for the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 will be described. The urethane foam 64 used for the inner sheet 29b of the vest part 30 has cushioning, breathability, and flexibility. It is a light material with an appropriate firmness and thickness and a good texture. The cushioning property reduces the burden on the assistant caused by the load-bearing shoulder belt 32. Moreover, the vest part 30 protects the body because the length adjustment fitting 37 and the carabiners 35, 36 are shaped so that they do not directly touch the body of the assistant or the person being assisted. The appropriate thickness, stiffness, and flexibility facilitate the wearing and removal of the vest part 30. Wearing only requires putting the vest part 30 over the shoulders and attaching the waist belt 31. It fits smoothly on the body of the assistant without losing its shape, provides a good wearing feeling, and does not interfere with the movement of the assistant. A cloth-like material is not suitable because it loses its shape, is difficult to wear, and is difficult to handle. Furthermore, the urethane foam 64 has a flexibility that allows anyone to use it regardless of the body type of the assistant.

[0053] The fabric used for the waist belt support part 55 has a moisture absorption and release function, is stretchable and breathable, and is a light material with a good texture. Therefore, the wearing feeling of the vest part 30 is good. Also, by using a stretchable material for the waist belt support part 55, the effect of the structure that allows the waist belt support part 55 to move freely is further enhanced.

[0054] A material like a seat belt used for the shoulder belt 32 prevents digging into the assistant's shoulders and reduces the burden on the body. Since it is a durable and flexible material, it gently conforms to the body, prevents digging into the body, and provides a firm and stable holding feeling. Also, the flexibility of the belt allows it to be easily processed and sewn into a shape that is easy to grip, improving the operability of the carabiners 35, 36.

[0055] The fitting used for the length adjustment fitting 37, such as those used in mountain climbing harnesses, can be easily adjusted to fit the body in front of the assistant's chest and can be firmly fixed so that the height of lifting the person being assisted can be maintained in the natural posture of the assistant.

[0056] The carabiners 35, 36 are used for activities such as mountain climbing and climbing. They are lightweight and easy to hold, and can be easily connected to and separated from the connecting parts 10 - 13. Also, two colors (blue and red) are used, and blue embroidery 67 and red embroidery 68 are applied to the connecting parts 10 - 13, enabling intuitive operation of connecting the same colors together.

[0057] The lumbar support part 50a uses a hard non - stretchable mesh material to support the waist. A displacement prevention material is used for the displacement prevention part 50b inside the lumbar support part 50a, and a stretchable material with an anti - slip function is used for the displacement prevention part 51 to prevent displacement of the lumbar belt 31 during body type differences or assistance. Also, the non - stretchable, thick, and soft material used for the front alignment part 52 provides a soft wearing feeling without pressing on the abdomen, and the hook - and - loop fastener 56 can be adjusted according to body type differences and clothing thickness around the waist. The corset - style lumbar belt 31 composed of these materials ensures the freedom of movement of the assistant in the front, back, left, and right directions. It can reduce the burden on the waist while preventing compression of the stomach by the lumbar belt 31 especially when in a forward - leaning posture, and support the movement. Also, it is lightweight, does not take up much space, is easy to put on and take off, and can be easily carried around.

[0058] The effects of the combination of the mat part 1, the vest part 30, and the lumbar belt 31 will be described. The mat part 1, with the mat part body 2 and the wrapping cloth 9, gently wraps and protects the whole body of the person being assisted, and firmly supports the body from below with the first mat part belt 28. The vest part 30 and the lumbar belt 31 support the assistant's movements and reduce the burden. By connecting the connecting parts 10 - 13 and the carabiners 35, 36, it is structured to enable assistance operations while maintaining balance. The caregiver wears the vest part 30 that fits the body and the waist belt 31, and connects the carabiners 35 and 36 to the connecting parts 10 to 13, with the care recipient in a state where they are compactly wrapped by the mat part 1 to prevent the body from collapsing. By adjusting the shoulder belts 32 (33) to a length suitable for oneself with the length adjustment fitting 37, the care recipient can be pulled closer and brought closer to the center of the body. By doing so, the weight can be directly received by the waist, making it possible to feel the load more lightly, and enabling the care recipient to be moved while being held in a natural posture. Even with the same weight, it feels lighter when the center of gravity is higher than when it is lower. If the caregiver cannot pull the care recipient closer and hold them by the center of gravity, especially when assisting, a large burden will be placed on the waist, shoulders, and arms, and the body posture will be easily disrupted. The risk to the care recipient being assisted in such a state will further increase.

[0059] The first mat part belt 28 firmly supports about 76% of the weight of the care recipient from below. The shoulder belt 32 that receives the load distributes the load from the caregiver's shoulders to the back by crossing inside the back covering part 42 (Fig. 4). Also, the waist belt 31 reduces the load on the waist. In addition, since the first mat part belt 28 is arranged along the positions of both upper arms that the caregiver holds, strong support by arm strength and grip strength is not required. The caregiver can scoop up and hold the care recipient, enabling one-person transfer assistance. Furthermore, because stable holding becomes possible, it can be supported by the large muscles of the entire body reaching the lower limbs, enabling stable assistance. Also, since the torso and thigh of the care recipient can be held by the first mat part belt 28 and the shoulder belt 32 (see Fig. 4), the caregiver can release the left upper arm from the care recipient. Therefore, in a situation where the caregiver takes an unstable body posture during assistance (a state where the care recipient's body is separated from the caregiver's body. See Fig. 13(b)), the caregiver can release the left upper arm and support themselves by grasping the surroundings to reduce the burden, and it becomes possible to gently transfer the care recipient. As a result, the combination of the mat part 1, the vest part 30, and the waist belt 31 enables a series of stable movements with slow actions not only for one-person assistance but also for transfer to a narrow space that can only be achieved with one-person assistance.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, blue thread embroidery 67 is applied to the two connecting parts 10 and 12 on the side opposite to the assistant on the first mat part belt 28, and red thread embroidery 68 is applied to the two connecting parts 11 and 13 on the assistant side. Also, the carabiners use two colors, blue and red. Blue is used for carabiner 35 and red is used for carabiner 36. Blue carabiner 35R is connected to the connecting part 12 with blue embroidery 67, and blue carabiner 35L is connected to the connecting part 10 with blue embroidery 67. Similarly, red carabiner 36R is connected to the connecting part 13 with red embroidery 68, and red carabiner 36L is connected to the connecting part 11 with red embroidery 68. In this way, by connecting the carabiners 35 and 36 with the same-color connecting parts 10 to 13, the visibility is enhanced and intuitive and reliable operations can be performed. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 10(a), blue embroidery 67 is applied to the tip of the second sub-belt 33 on the chest side of the assistant, and red embroidery 68 is applied to the tip of the first sub-belt 34 on the side. The same-color carabiners 35 and 36 are attached. When the carabiners 35 and 36 are removed from the second sub-belt 33 and the first sub-belt 34 for washing, the visibility is enhanced so that the attachment location is not misaligned when attaching them again.

[0061] Next, an example of using the assisting device of the present invention will be described. Since it can be used to hold and transfer stably by oneself, it is not necessary to use external means of transportation, so the economic burden can be reduced. When the medical condition suddenly changes, or when there is no urgency to call an ambulance but one wants to go to the hospital, it can be transported to the hospital immediately. This leads to early detection and early treatment, reducing the burden on the body. Also, being able to respond immediately leads to "peace of mind".

[0062] Since a mattress, an air mattress, etc. are laid on the bed, it is difficult to slide a plate-like object for transfer under the body during emergency transportation, which places a burden on the body of the care recipient. Therefore, by laying the assisting device of the present invention under the body, the emergency team can smoothly transfer the care recipient to the stretcher. Furthermore, all the processes of a series of transfers after emergency transportation (transfer from the stretcher of the ambulance to the stretcher in the hospital, transfer to the examination table or the in-hospital bed, transfer from the hospital to the private car and return home to transfer to the home bed) can be smoothly carried out by the family members, emergency team members, and hospital staff. Also, during emergency transportation at night, after the diagnosis and treatment are completed, the care recipient can smoothly return home. If there is no assisting device of the present invention, the nursing taxi cannot be used late at night and the care recipient has to wait until morning. Or, the nursing taxi is by reservation and it is unknown when the care recipient can return home. The care recipient has to greet the next day without getting enough sleep and still has to carry out activities as usual, which increases the burden on the caregiver. Also, during ordinary medical visits, in the hospital, the care recipient moves by a reclining wheelchair, etc., and for the transfer to the examination table or the in-hospital bed, multiple hospital staff members hold the handles 10 - 17 of the mat part main body 2 and slide the mat part main body 2 to assist with the horizontal transfer. In this way, since the care recipient comes to the hospital in a state of being placed on the mat part 1 from the home bed, all transfers can be smoothly carried out by everyone. Moreover, the burden on the care recipient during each transfer is reduced.

[0063] By utilizing the assisting device of the present invention, going out is no longer "something special". Things that couldn't be done before can now be done. One can freely go out and spend time with family and close people without any worries. One can touch the natural air, wind, and scenery. One's appetite will also increase and one can eat deliciously. One can be liberated from daily pain and distress, and both the mind and body can be refreshed. And both the care recipient and the caregiver are more likely to have a new mood and can live positively. One's own world expands and one can feel hope and happiness. Generally speaking, it is said that the higher the number of transfer movements in daily life, the higher the quality of life (QOL), and it can be said that it is an extremely important movement. Furthermore, the improvement of QOL applies not only to the care recipient but also to the caregiver. This is because if it becomes realistic to move freely without using external means of transportation, the caregiver's own awareness will change and their mental horizons will expand. Such things will lead to the physical and mental health of the caregiver. A synergistic effect will be obtained for both parties. The freedom of movement and the freedom of action become the freedom of the mind, and it will surely bring changes to that person's life.

[0064] Next, the flow of movement and the method of assisting with transfer will be described with reference to FIG. 21. First, the method of moving from the home (bed) to the car will be described. As shown in FIG. 22, in order to reduce the burden on the caregiver's waist, the height of the nursing bed is raised. As shown in FIG. 23, the care recipient is placed in the lateral recumbent position, and the mat part 1 is bent and laid under the body. As shown in FIG. 24, the care recipient's body is placed in the lateral recumbent position on the caregiver's side, the bent mat part 1 is flattened, the wrapping cloth 9 is pulled out, and the body is arranged so as to be placed in the center of the mat part main body 2. As shown in FIG. 25, place the care recipient's hands on the abdomen, wrap them with the wrapping cloth 9, and make the body compact.

[0065] The caregiver wears the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31, connects the red carabiners 36 (R, L) to the connecting parts 11, 13 with the red embroidery 68, and connects the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) to the connecting parts 10, 12 with the blue embroidery 67. Then, as shown in FIG. 26, the placed care recipient is pulled from the center of the bed to the caregiver's side (the edge of the bed). At this time, the caregiver's movement is not to approach with arm strength, but only to raise the upper body so as to arch the back, and the care recipient's body will slide on the bed and approach the caregiver, so the burden on the arms and waist can be avoided. Then, the length of the shoulder belt 32 is adjusted with the length adjustment fitting 37 so that the caregiver can hold it in a natural posture. As a guide, adjust the shoulder belt 32 so that the angle of the caregiver's elbow is about 90 degrees when lifting. Then, as shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, put both upper limbs under the mat part main body 2, lower the knees, lift with the force of the lower limbs, draw the person to be assisted towards the center of gravity of the assistant and hold, and move while holding.

[0066] Next, a method of transferring to a vehicle will be described. As shown in FIG. 28, open the door of the passenger seat side or the right seat when looking at the vehicle from the front, and recline the seat cushion. As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, initially set the inclination of the seat cushion at an angle that is easy to assist, and perform assistance suitable for the person to be assisted and the assistant, such as reclining it further after transfer. Next, as shown in FIG. 29, the assistant places the right foot on the step on the passenger seat side and guides the person to be assisted into the vehicle from the foot side. As shown in FIG. 30, the assistant applies force to the right foot, enters the upper body into the vehicle, grabs a place where it is easy to grab with the left hand, and transfers while supporting the person to be assisted from the shoulder to around the head with the right upper limb. FIG. 31 is a detailed view of FIG. 30 and an image diagram of the transfer as seen from the driver's seat side. The left hand of the assistant grabs the right shoulder part of the passenger seat to support his own body, and the right upper limb supports the person to be assisted from the shoulder to around the head under the mat part main body 2. The first mat part belt 28 passing through the back surface 2b of the mat part main body supports the body of the person to be assisted from below, and the shoulder belt 32 of the vest part 30 worn by the assistant holds the mat part 1 like a hammock to suspend the person to be assisted and hold with the entire body of the assistant. Therefore, even if the left upper limb is released, the person can sit down gently and stable transfer is possible. By moving the weight of the assistant himself / herself without difficulty, the person to be assisted can also transfer safely.

[0067] FIG. 32 is a view seen from the passenger seat side. For the vehicle seat, spread a rolled towel, cushion, etc. in the depression of the seat to eliminate the step and make the seat surface smooth. Also place a cushion or the like at the feet so that the legs can be extended. Also, it also serves to protect the feet (the gray parts in FIGS. 31 to 33). After transferring the person to be assisted to the passenger seat of the vehicle, remove the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) from the connecting parts 10, 12, go out of the vehicle, and also remove the red carabiners 36 (R, L) from the connecting parts 11, 13. Or, extend the shoulder belt 32 with the length adjusting fitting 37, go out of the vehicle, and then remove the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) and the red carabiners 36 (R, L). Since there are two ways to do this, separate them in a way that is convenient for the caregiver. Fasten the seat belt for the person to be assisted and depart (Fig. 33).

[0068] The assisting device of the present invention enables one caregiver to hold and carry the person to be assisted for transfer and movement, and enables both of them to reduce the physical burden and perform it safely. However, if the main caregiver (the person wearing the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31) is uneasy, the sub-caregiver (the person not wearing the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31) and the main caregiver hold the person to be assisted from both sides and assist in moving, and only the main caregiver performs the transfer to a narrow place such as the seat of the vehicle.

[0069] Next, a method of arriving at the hospital, transferring to a reclining wheelchair, etc., and moving and transferring within the hospital will be described. As shown in Fig. 34, place a reclining wheelchair, etc. beside the vehicle and lower the left armrest of the wheelchair. Again, the caregiver wears the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31, connects the red carabiners 36 (R, L) to the connecting parts 11, 13, and connects the blue carabiners 35 (R, L) to the connecting parts 10, 12. The caregiver puts both upper arms under the main body 2 of the mat part, holds the person to be assisted, extends the upper body of the person to be assisted out of the vehicle, and transfers to a reclining wheelchair, etc. (Fig. 35). The caregiver separates the carabiners 35, 36 from the connecting parts 10 - 13, removes the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31. Then, move within the hospital while being placed on the mat part 1. Also, when transferring to an examination table (X-ray table, electrocardiogram, etc.) or an in-hospital bed during a medical examination, hold the handles 10 - 17, or hold the four handles on one side of the main body 2 of the mat part in the transfer direction, and the in-hospital staff assists in the horizontal transfer (see Figs. 38, 39).

[0070] Next, a method of returning home from the hospital will be described. As shown in Fig. 35, place a reclining wheelchair or the like beside the vehicle and lower the left armrest of the wheelchair. The caregiver wears the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31, and connects the carabiners 35 and 36 with the same color to the connecting parts 10 to 13. Next, as shown in Fig. 36, the caregiver puts both upper limbs under the mat part main body 2, bends the knees, lowers the waist, and while pulling the care recipient closer, lifts the care recipient with the strength of the lower limbs. Transfer to the passenger seat of the vehicle, separate the carabiners 35 and 36 from the connecting parts 10 to 13, fasten the seat belt, and leave the hospital (Figs. 28 to 33).

[0071] Next, the design will be described. Conventional assistive devices for transfer and boarding have focused on "carrying" the care recipient. The assistive device of the present invention is designed to support the realization of the wishes of "wanting to ~" in each individual's life by obtaining freedom of movement. Therefore, it has both a design that suits any scene and a comfort that allows for a pleasant experience. It is not an inorganic assistive device for only one use, but has a warm design. It can be used in all scenes, such as during normal outings and emergencies. Develop color variations with a nuance similar to clothing so that users can choose their favorite colors. For example, make the outer fabric 65, the outer seat 29a, the shoulder covering part 41, the anti-detachment part 45, and the front alignment part 52 the same color, and develop several types such as beige, Bordeaux, khaki, brown, navy, and gray. Also, unify the other elements with common colors. For example, unify the walnut cloth 9 with light gray, unify the shoulder belt 32, the first mat part belt 28, and the second mat part belts 21 and 22 with light gray, and unify the inner seat 29b, the waist support part 50a, and the deviation prevention part 51 on the side of the outer seat 29a with black, etc., to create a coordinated look with a sense of unity throughout each color variation.

[0072] Next, the bag for storing the assistive device of the present invention will be described. For bedridden care recipients who go out, using a bag that can be compactly stored because there are many items to carry can reduce the burden on the caregiver. As shown in Fig. 19, the storage bag 57 is bag-shaped and has a first storage portion 58 capable of storing the mat portion 1, and is bag-shaped and arranged inside the first storage portion 58. A part of the opening end portion is sewn to the sewing portion 63 located at the opening end portion of the first storage portion 58, and a second storage portion 59 capable of storing the vest portion 30 and the waist belt 31 is integrally formed. The opening end portion of the second storage portion 59 is provided with a fastener 60 for closing the opening when storing the vest portion 30 and the waist belt 31. By storing them separately, they can be stored without getting entangled with each other.

[0073] The storage bag 57 is configured such that the size of the bag can be changed depending on whether it stores the mat portion 1, the vest portion 30, and the waist belt 31, or only the vest portion 30 and the waist belt 31, facilitating the storage and carrying of care aids. Since the mat portion 1, the vest portion 30, and the waist belt 31, which are care aids of the present invention, are made of a light and soft material, they can be rolled up to be compact and placed in the storage bag without causing trouble in terms of storage space and can be easily carried. The storage bag 57 is made of a lightweight material with water-repellent processing and can be carried with confidence even in rainy weather.

[0074] As shown in Fig. 19, the storage bag 57 is provided with a first gripping portion 62a, a second gripping portion 62b, and a third gripping portion 62c, which are three gripping portions of the same length. It is composed of a first gripping portion 62a whose both ends are fixed to the sewn portion where the second storage portion 59 is sewn at the opening end portion of the first storage portion 58, a second gripping portion 62b fixed to a portion other than the sewn portion at the opening end portion of the first storage portion 58, and a third gripping portion 62c fixed to a portion other than the sewn portion at the opening end portion of the second storage portion 59. The first gripping part 62a and the second gripping part 62b serve as the handles of the first storage part 58, and the first gripping part 62a and the third gripping part 62c serve as the handles of the second storage part 59. The first gripping part 62a serves as the common handle of the first storage part 58 and the second storage part 59. The length of the handle is such that it can be lowered from the shoulder and the two hands do not interfere with each other.

[0075] A pocket 61 is provided in the second storage part 59 to fold and store the first storage part 58. By doing so, while the care recipient is using the mat part 1, the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 can be put into the second storage part 59 and carried around compactly. As shown in FIG. 20, the second storage part 59 is taken out from the first storage part 58 (FIG. 20(a)). The bottom surface of the first storage part 58 is folded along the broken line part with both ends folded toward the center (FIG. 20(b)). Further, the first storage part 58 is folded along the broken line part in FIG. 20(c) (FIG. 20(d)). When the folded first storage part 58 is put into the pocket 61 (FIGS. 20(e), (f)), the second storage part 59 appears on the surface, becoming a small bag, and the vest part 30 and the waist belt 31 can be stored compactly and the opening can be closed with the fastener 60 so that the contents do not come out and it can be carried around.

[0076] Finally, both the care recipient and the caregiver who are living a caregiving life full of difficulties are in a very difficult situation. Reducing even one worry among such difficulties is important. If there is something that can make one feel "it's okay", it will give the caregiver peace of mind and create a sense of relaxation accordingly. The caregiving device of the present invention enables a caregiver to transfer a care recipient alone and has safety and operability that can reduce the physical burden on both of them. And an improvement in QOL can be expected in the future. I hope it will be utilized to realize each person's wish as a caregiving device that empathizes with the various worries of the elderly and those with physical disabilities. I think that precisely because of the disabilities, one can feel something that others cannot feel. I hope to find something that can expand possibilities and become a force to move forward positively, that there is freedom even in disabilities. The assisting device of the present invention is born from the experience of the caregiver himself / herself, and I think it has been made into an assisting device that is user-friendly for the caregivers who support the care recipient.

Explanation of Signs

[0077] 1 Mat part 2 Mat part main body 2a Mat part main body surface 2b Mat part main body back surface 3 - 6 Tongue pieces 7, 8 Side parts 9 Walnut cloth 10 - 13 Connecting part (handle) 14 - 17 Handles 18a, 18b, 18c, 18d, 47, 48 Stitches 19 High friction part 20 Low friction part 21, 22 Second mat part belt 23 Thigh support part 24, 25 Waist support part 26 Back support part 27 Intersection part of the waist support part 28 First mat part belt 29a Outer seat 29b Inner seat 30 Vest part 30a Outer side of the vest part 30b Inner side of the vest part 31 Waist belt 31a Outer side of the waist belt 31b Inner side of the waist belt 32(R, L) Shoulder belt 33 Second sub - belt 34 First sub - belt 35(R, L) Blue carabiner (connector) 36(R, L) Red carabiner (connector) 37 Length adjusting fitting 38, 40 Annular rubber 39 Gripping part 41 Shoulder covering part 42 Back covering part 43(R, L), 44(R, L), 49 Opening 45(R,L) Anti-disengagement part 46 Bending part 50a Waist contact part 50b, 51 Misalignment prevention parts 52 Front alignment part 53 Hooking part 55 Waist belt support part 56 Hook-and-loop fastener 57 Storage bag 58 First storage part 59 Second storage part 60 Fastener 61 Pocket 62a First gripping part 62b Second gripping part 62c Third gripping part 63 Sewn part 64 Urethane foam 65 Outer fabric 66 Binding tape 67 Blue embroidery 68 Red embroidery

Claims

1. A long mat part on which the person to be assisted is placed, A vest part arranged on the back side of the caregiver, A shoulder belt that is long and has a central part in the longitudinal direction held by the vest part, and both end parts in the longitudinal direction are connected to the mat part respectively, A waist belt that is formed continuously and integrally with the vest part and is used to fix the vest part to the caregiver, The mat part has a first mat part belt that is sewn in an 8 - shape on the back surface of the mat part body so that two annular parts are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the mat part body, and two connecting parts are provided for each of the two annular parts, Both end parts of the shoulder belt are respectively connected to the connecting parts, The part of the mat part body where the first mat part belt is sewn is arranged to support at least the trunk and thigh parts of the person to be assisted during use. An assisting device.

2. On the mat part body, annular stitches serving as marks for the position of the head, the back, and the thigh part of the person to be assisted are formed in a state where the person to be assisted is placed at a predetermined position on the mat part. The assisting device according to Claim 1.

3. The mat part body is provided with four tongue pieces protruding outward at positions hiding the four connecting parts provided in two for each of the two annular parts of the first mat part belt. The assisting device according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. The first mat part belt has a thigh part support part extending from one thigh part side of the person to be assisted, which is spaced apart from each other on the caregiver side of the mat part body, toward the side opposite to the caregiver side, and a back part support part extending from the back part side of the other of the two positions of the person to be assisted toward the side opposite to the caregiver side, The thigh part support part and the back part support part are sewn so that they are farther apart from each other as they are located on the side opposite to the caregiver side, The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. In the vicinity of the portion where the connecting portion in the first mat portion belt is provided, it is detachable from the mat portion main body, and the assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. Outside the portion where the first mat portion belt is sewn in the longitudinal direction of the mat portion main body, an O-shaped second mat portion belt that supports the head and feet of the person to be assisted and has both ends as handles is sewn. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. On the mat portion main body, a swaddling cloth is provided, one end of which is sewn on the opposite side of the assistant to wrap and protect the body of the person to be assisted. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. On the back surface of the mat portion main body, at a position corresponding to the buttocks of the person to be assisted, there is a non-slip portion sewn with non-slip fabric to prevent the person to be assisted from slipping off together with the mat portion main body, and the portion other than the non-slip portion is made of a slippery fabric so that the movement on the bed is smooth. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. Both end edges in the short direction of the mat portion main body are curved so that the width in the short direction of the mat portion main body becomes narrower as they approach both ends from the central portion in the longitudinal direction of the mat portion main body. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. There are two shoulder belts. The vest portion holds the two shoulder belts so as to cross each other at the central portion in the longitudinal direction of each of the two shoulder belts. Connecting tools that can be connected to the four connecting portions provided on the first mat portion belt can be attached to both ends of each of the two shoulder belts. Each of the two shoulder belts is provided with a length adjusting fitting for adjusting the length of the shoulder belt. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The shoulder belt is a long belt, with the connecting fitting attached to one end in the longitudinal direction, and a first sub-belt with the length adjusting fitting attached to the other end, is a long belt, with the connecting fitting attached to one end in the longitudinal direction, and the other end held by the length adjusting fitting, and a second sub-belt whose length can be changed by changing the portion held by the length adjusting fitting, An annular rubber is attached to the other end of the second sub-belt for holding the portion on the other end side of the portion held by the length adjusting fitting in the second sub-belt in a bent state. The assisting device according to claim 10.

12. The vest part has a back covering part that covers the back of the assistant when the vest part is worn by the assistant, and two shoulder covering parts that are integrally formed continuously with the back covering part and extend from two locations of the back covering part to cover both shoulders of the assistant when the vest part is worn by the assistant. The back covering part has an opening for passing the shoulder belt from the left and right shoulder sides to the left and right side flanks of the assistant when the vest part is worn by the assistant. The width of the opening on the left and right side flanks is 1.5 times or more the width of the shoulder belt. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The back covering portion has an inner sheet on the side that contacts the back of the caregiver in a state where the vest portion is worn by the caregiver, and an outer sheet that is overlapped so as to cover the inner sheet from the side opposite to the side that contacts the caregiver in the inner sheet, and is sewn to the inner sheet over the entire portion except for the portion corresponding to the opening in the peripheral portion. A stitch portion is formed by sewing the inner sheet and the outer sheet so as to restrict the movement of the portion interposed between the inner sheet and the outer sheet in the shoulder belt. The assisting device according to claim 12.

14. The length adjustment fitting of the shoulder belt is arranged at a position overlapping the shoulder covering portion. A detachment prevention portion is provided at a position where the shoulder belt is separated from the shoulder covering portion in the shoulder covering portion to prevent the shoulder belt from detaching from the position where it overlaps the shoulder covering portion. The assisting device according to claim 12 or 13.

15. It is located on the shoulder covering portion side rather than the end portion on the side opposite to the shoulder covering portion side in the back covering portion and is fixed to the portion that contacts the back of the caregiver in a state where the vest portion is worn by the caregiver, and further includes a waist belt support portion that swingably supports the waist belt. The assisting device according to claim 12.

16. The waist belt has a shape in which both end portions are located below the navel of the caregiver in a state where it is worn by the caregiver. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

17. The waist belt is made of a non-elastic mesh material on the back, an elastic material on the ventral side, and a non-elastic and thick soft material on the abdomen, and is worn by overlapping surfaces with a hook-and-loop fastener on the abdomen. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

18. The waist belt is provided with a hooking portion that hooks the connecting tool provided at the end portion of the shoulder belt to prevent the shoulder belt from falling out of the vest portion. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

19. Further comprising an annular rubber fixed to an end portion of the shoulder belt on the side where the connecting tool is provided and connected to the hooking portion. The assisting device according to claim 18.

20. The two connecting portions on the side opposite to the caregiver of the first mat portion belt are embroidered with blue thread, the two connecting portions on the caregiver side are embroidered with red thread, the tip portions on the chest side of the caregiver of the two shoulder belts are embroidered with blue thread, and the tip portions on the side are embroidered with red thread. The connecting portions of the shoulder belt and the first mat portion belt are connected by the connecting tools of the same color. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2.

21. The assisting device according to claim 1 or 2, and A bag having a first storage portion that is bag-shaped and can store the mat portion, a second storage portion that is bag-shaped and is disposed inside the first storage portion, and a part of the opening end portion is sewn to the opening end portion of the first storage portion and can store the vest portion and the waist belt, a first gripping portion whose both ends are fixed to the sewing portion where the second storage portion is sewn to the opening end portion of the first storage portion, a second gripping portion fixed to a portion other than the sewing portion at the opening end portion of the first storage portion, and a third gripping portion fixed to a portion other than the sewing portion at the opening end portion of the second storage portion. An assisting device set.

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