Handrail device

Abstract

The present invention provides a handrail device that allows for smooth passage through areas where handrails are installed. [Solution] The handrail device 1B comprises a support column portion extending in the vertical direction (for example, a first support column portion 11B) and a handrail (for example, a first handrail member 201) extending in an intersecting direction that intersects the vertical direction. The handrail 13B is attached to the support column portion so as to be rotatable with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a handrail device, and more particularly to a handrail device having a support column extending in the vertical direction.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, movable handrails have been known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The movable handrail described in Patent Document 1 has a rod-shaped rotatable handrail bar that can be gripped by a user. The rotatable handrail bar is rotatable in the vertical direction about a rotation joint provided at one end, and a latching joint provided at the other end is supported by a second support joint to maintain a substantially horizontal posture. The rotation joint is pivotally supported rotatably on a first support joint attached to a first fixed handrail bar, and the latching joint is detachably connected to a second support joint attached to a second fixed handrail bar and supported from below, whereby the rotatable handrail bar is maintained in a substantially horizontal posture. The first fixed handrail bar and the second handrail bar are maintained in a horizontal posture by a support column erected on the installation surface. In the movable handrail of Patent Document 1, the rotatable handrail bar can rotate downward from the second support joint.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When a user tries to pass between two support columns, that is, the location where the rotatable handrail bar is provided, it is conceivable to lift the other end of the rotatable handrail bar (handrail) upward and pass while holding the other end of the rotatable handrail bar lifted, or to rotate the rotatable handrail bar downward to pass.

[0005] When passing through an area with the other end of a rotating handrail lifted, maintaining that position can be burdensome for the user. Furthermore, when rotating the handrail downwards, it can become an obstacle, hindering passage. Therefore, smooth passage through areas with handrails may be difficult.

[0006] This disclosure is made in view of the above-mentioned problems and aims to provide a handrail device that allows for smooth passage through areas where handrails are installed. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A handrail device according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a support column extending in the vertical direction and a handrail extending in an intersecting direction that intersects the vertical direction. The handrail is rotatably attached to the support column with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, it is possible to pass through areas where handrails are installed smoothly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows the external appearance of the handrail device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an enlarged view of the main part of the handrail device shown above. [Figure 3] Figures 3A to 3C show the switching between the connection and disconnection of the handrail and the second support column of the handrail device described above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows the appearance of the handrail device described above when the handrail is raised upwards. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the final state of the handrail when the handrail of the handrail device described above is raised upwards. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of a case where another handrail device is connected to the same handrail device as above. [Figure 7]Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the main part of the handrail device according to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8A is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the handrail device described above, showing the handrail and the second support column in a locked state. Figure 8B is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the handrail device described above, showing the handrail and the second support column in a unlocked state. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the external appearance of a handrail device according to a modified example 2 of Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows an example of connecting another handrail device to the same handrail device shown above. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the external appearance of the handrail device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the appearance of the handrail device shown above when the handrail is in the open position. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an enlarged view of the main part of the handrail device shown above when the handrail is in the open position. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the handrail device shown above when the handrail is in the closed position. [Figure 15] Figure 15 shows an example of a case where another handrail device is connected to the same handrail device as above. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of a handrail device according to a modified example 1 of Embodiment 2, in a state where the lock on the connection between the first handrail member and the second handrail member is released and the movement of the case is suppressed. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the handrail device described above, in a state where the lock connecting the first handrail member and the second handrail member is released, and the restraint on the movement of the case is released. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the main part of the handrail device described above, in a state where the connection between the first handrail member and the second handrail member is locked. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows the external appearance of a handrail device according to a modified example 2 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 20]Fig. 20 is a diagram showing an example when another handrail device is connected to the above-described handrail device. [Figure 21] Fig. 21 is a diagram showing the appearance of a handrail device according to Modification Example 3 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 22] Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example when another handrail device is connected to the above-described handrail device. [Figure 23] Fig. 23 is a diagram showing the appearance of a handrail device according to another example in Modification Example 3 of Embodiment 2. [Figure 24] Fig. 24 is a diagram showing an example when another handrail device is connected to the above-described handrail device. [Figure 25] Fig. 25 is a diagram showing the appearance of a handrail device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 26] Fig. 26 is an exploded view of the main part of the above-described handrail device. [Figure 27] Fig. 27 is an enlarged view of the main part of the above-described handrail device excluding the cover part. [Figure 28] Fig. 28 is a perspective view of the holding member of the first handrail holding member of the above-described handrail device. [Figure 29] Fig. 29 is an enlarged view of the main part of the above-described handrail device excluding the cover part and the holding member. [Figure 30] Fig. 30 is an enlarged view of the main part of the above-described handrail device when the handrail is moved upward. [Figure 31] Fig. 31 is a perspective view from above of the above-described handrail device in the first state. [Figure 32] Fig. 32 is a perspective view from below of the above-described handrail device in the first state. [Figure 33] Fig. 33 is a perspective view from above of the above-described handrail device in the second state. [Figure 34] Fig. 34 is a perspective view from below of the above-described handrail device in the second state. [Figure 35] Fig. 35 is a perspective view for explaining an example of use of the above-described handrail device.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. Various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not depart from the technical concept of the present disclosure.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) The handrail device 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 6.

[0012] (1) Overview In Embodiment 1, the handrail device 1 has left-right and up-down directions as shown in Figure 1. For example, in Figure 1, the direction in which the first support column 11 and the second support column 12, which will be described later, are aligned is defined as the left-right direction, and the direction in which the first support column 11 and the second support column 12 extend is defined as the up-down direction. Figures 1, 4 to 6, and 8A to 10 show arrows representing these directions (up, down, left, right), but these arrows are included merely to aid in explanation and do not represent actual functions. Furthermore, the above definitions of directions are not intended to limit the usage of the handrail device 1 in Embodiment 1.

[0013] The handrail device 1 according to Embodiment 1 assists, for example, a user's walking motion. As shown in Figure 1, the handrail device 1 comprises a support column (for example, a first support column 11) extending in the vertical direction, a handrail 13, and a mounting portion 14. The handrail 13 is supported by the support column in a direction that intersects the vertical direction. The mounting portion 14 is provided at the tip of the support column. The handrail 13 is attached to the mounting portion 14. The mounting portion 14 has a handrail holding portion 142 to which the handrail 13 is attached. The handrail holding portion 142 is configured to be rotatable relative to the support column about an axis C2 (see Figure 2) that intersects the vertical direction and the axis C1 (see Figure 2) of the handrail holding portion 142, and is configured so that the handrail 13 can move within the handrail holding portion 142 along the axis C1 of the handrail holding portion 142.

[0014] This configuration allows for smooth passage through areas where the handrail 13 is installed.

[0015] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 1, the handrail device 1 further includes a second support section 12 that extends vertically and is different from the first support section 11, which serves as a support column. One end of the handrail 13 (first end 131) is inserted into the handrail holding section 142. The second support section 12 has a holding section (for example, a second holding section 122) provided at the tip of the second support section 12, which is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the other end of the handrail 13 (second end 132).

[0016] This configuration allows for switching between connecting and disconnecting the other end of the handrail 13 from the holding part, while also enabling smooth passage through areas where the handrail 13 is installed.

[0017] (2) Composition As shown in Figure 1, the handrail device 1 according to Embodiment 1 comprises a base 10, a first support column 11, a second support column 12, a handrail 13, and a mounting portion 14.

[0018] Base 10 is formed in the shape of a rectangular plate, for example, measuring 60cm x 90cm. Note that these figures are examples only and are not intended to limit the size of the base. The size of Base 10 should be large enough for an adult to place both feet on it when walking. Because both feet rest on Base 10, the user can experience stability while walking.

[0019] In Embodiment 1, both the first support column 11 and the second support column 12 are attached to a single base 10.

[0020] The first support column 11 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first support column 11 is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figure 1, the first support column 11 has a first main body 111, a first holding portion 112, and a first connecting member 113.

[0021] The first main body portion 111 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first main body portion 111 is attached to the base 10. A first connecting member 113 is provided at the upper end of the first main body portion 111 (see Figure 2).

[0022] The first connecting member 113 is provided at the upper end of the first support column 11, that is, at the upper end of the first main body 111. The first connecting member 113 has a first member 113a and a second member 113b that face each other in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the first connecting member 113 has a cylindrical shaft portion that connects the first member 113a and the second member 113b.

[0023] The second connecting member 15 is connected to the first connecting member 113 (see Figure 2). The second connecting member 15 has a third member 151 and a fourth member 152 configured to be connectable to the third member 151. When the third member 151 and the fourth member 152 are connected, the tip of the second connecting member 15 forms an annular shape that opens vertically. The inner diameter of this annular shape is approximately the same as the diameter of the shaft portion of the first connecting member 113.

[0024] When connecting the second connecting member 15 to the first connecting member 113, the third member 151 and the fourth member 152 are connected so as to sandwich the shaft portion of the first connecting member 113. This allows the second connecting member 15 to rotate around the shaft portion of the first connecting member 113 as its axis of rotation. In other words, the shaft portion of the first connecting member 113 and the third member 151 and the fourth member 152 can be considered a hinge portion. It is preferable that the second connecting member 15 connected to the first connecting member 113 be configured to rotate in predetermined angular increments (for example, 5 degrees) around the shaft portion of the first connecting member 113 as its axis of rotation.

[0025] When connecting the second connecting member 15 to another handrail device 2, for example, the tip of the second connecting member 15 and the handrail of the other handrail device 2 are connected by a bolt and nut. Figure 6 shows the case where the other handrail device 2 is connected to the second connecting member 15 connected to the first support column 11 and the second connecting member 15 connected to the second support column 12.

[0026] The first holding portion 112 is provided below the second member 113b of the first connecting member 113 (see Figures 1 and 2). The first holding portion 112 holds the mounting portion 14 so that the mounting portion 14 can rotate around the axis C2 as the axis of rotation. The mounting portion 14 is held at the first end, which is one of the two ends of the first holding portion 112. The second end, which is the other end of the two ends of the first holding portion 112, has a through hole that runs vertically. The first main body portion 111 is inserted into this through hole. The first holding portion 112 is formed in a U-shape. A space SP1 is formed between the first end and the second end of the first holding portion 112. The side portion 112a, which is located between the first end and the second end and faces the space SP1, is tapered. Specifically, the side portion 112a is formed so that it approaches the second end, i.e., the through hole, as it goes downwards.

[0027] The second support column 12 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second support column 12 is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figures 1, 4, and 5, the second support column 12 has a second main body 121, a second holding portion 122, and a third connecting member 123.

[0028] The second main body portion 121 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second main body portion 121 is attached to the base 10. A third connecting member 123 is provided at the upper end of the second main body portion 121.

[0029] The third connecting member 123 is provided at the upper end of the second support column 12, that is, at the upper end of the second main body 121. The third connecting member 123 has the same configuration as the first connecting member 113. The third connecting member 123 has a fifth member and a sixth member that face each other in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the third connecting member 123 has a cylindrical shaft that connects the fifth member and the sixth member. The second connecting member 15 is connected to the third connecting member 123 (see Figures 4 and 5). The connection between the second connecting member 15 and the third connecting member 123 is the same as the connection between the second connecting member 15 and the first connecting member 113, so the explanation is omitted here. Preferably, the second connecting member 15 connected to the third connecting member 123 is configured to be rotatable in units of a predetermined angle (for example, 5 degrees) with the shaft of the third connecting member 123 as the axis of rotation.

[0030] The second holding portion 122 is integrally formed with the fifth and sixth members of the third connecting member 123 and extends in a direction that intersects the vertical direction. In other words, the second holding portion 122 is provided at the tip of the second support portion 12. The second holding portion 122 is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the handrail 13.

[0031] The mounting portion 14 is provided at the tip of the first support portion 11. Specifically, the mounting portion 14 is attached to the first holding portion 112 (see Figure 2). The handrail 13 is attached to the mounting portion 14.

[0032] The mounting portion 14 includes a retained member 141 and a handrail holding portion 142.

[0033] The member to be held 141 is attached to the first holding part 112 so as to be rotatable with respect to the first support part 11 around the axis C2.

[0034] The handrail holder 142 is integrally molded with the member to be held 141. That is, the handrail holder 142 is configured to rotate around the first support column 11 on axis C2. The handrail 13 is attached to the handrail holder 142. Specifically, one end of the handrail 13, the first end 131, is inserted into the handrail holder 142. The handrail holder 142 is also configured so that the handrail 13 can move along axis C1 inside the handrail holder 142. The handrail holder 142 only needs to be configured to hold the handrail 13. For example, the handrail holder 142 may be cylindrical or C-shaped. In this embodiment, the handrail holder 142 is cylindrical.

[0035] The handrail 13 is used to assist the user's walking motion. The handrail 13 is supported by the first support column 11, extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. Furthermore, the handrail 13 is supported by the second support column 12, extending in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. One end of the handrail 13, the first end 131, is inserted into the handrail holding portion 142. The other end of the handrail 13, the second end 132, is connected to the second holding portion 122.

[0036] As described above, the second retaining part 122 is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the other end (second end 132) of the handrail 13. For example, the second end 132 of the handrail 13 has a protrusion 132a that projects in a direction intersecting the axis of the handrail 13, and the second retaining part 122 has a recess 122a into which at least a part of the protrusion 132a is fitted. When at least a part of the protrusion 132a is fitted into the recess 122a, a gap SP2 is provided in the recess 122a to the left of the protrusion 133a, so that the protrusion 132a can move to the left within the recess 122a.

[0037] (3) Example of operation The opening and closing operation of the handrail 13 will now be explained. Note that the first support column 11 and the second support column 12 are aligned in the left-right direction. That is, the handrail 13 is installed along the left-right direction. The first support column 11 is located to the right of the second support column 12.

[0038] As described above, the second retaining portion 122 and the handrail 13 are connected by the fact that at least a portion of the protrusion 132a on the second end portion 132 of the handrail 13 is fitted into the recess 122a on which the second retaining portion 122 is provided. Furthermore, when at least a portion of the protrusion 132a is fitted into the recess 122a on which the second retaining portion 122 is provided, a gap SP2 is provided. In addition, the first end portion 131 of the handrail 13 is inserted into the handrail retaining portion 142 and is therefore movable along axis C1.

[0039] Because a gap SP2 is provided and the handrail 13 is movable along axis C1, it becomes possible to move the handrail 13 to the left when the handrail 13 is in the closed state, where the second holding part 122 and the handrail 13 are connected. In the closed state, the user can move the handrail 13 to the left while simultaneously lifting the handrail 13 upwards. As a result, the state of the handrail 13 can be switched to the open state, where the second holding part 122 and the handrail 13 are not connected (see Figures 3A to 3C and Figure 4).

[0040] When the handrail 13 switches from a closed state to an open state (see Figure 4), it becomes possible to move the handrail 13 in the opposite direction (direction of movement) to the direction from the first end 131 to the second end 132. As the handrail 13 moves along the direction of movement, the first end 131 of the handrail 13 makes point contact or line contact with the side surface 112a of the first holding part 112. After the first end 131 of the handrail 13 makes point contact or line contact with the side surface 112a of the first holding part 112, the side surface 112a guides the first end 131 of the handrail 13 downwards while it moves in the direction of movement. As a result, the handrail 13 can be positioned along the vertical direction (see Figure 5).

[0041] Therefore, when a user passes through an area where a handrail is provided, the user does not need to hold the handrail 13 up while passing through, nor does the handrail 13 become an obstacle. In other words, the user can pass through the area where the handrail 13 is provided smoothly.

[0042] (4) Effects As described above, the handrail device 1 according to Embodiment 1 comprises a support column (for example, a first support column 11) extending in the vertical direction, a handrail 13, and a mounting portion 14. The handrail 13 is supported by the support column in a direction that intersects the vertical direction. The mounting portion 14 is provided at the tip of the support column. The handrail 13 is attached to the mounting portion 14. The mounting portion 14 has a handrail holding portion 142 to which the handrail 13 is attached. The handrail holding portion 142 is configured to be rotatable with respect to the support column in the vertical direction and around an axis C2 that intersects the axis C1 of the handrail holding portion 142, and is configured so that the handrail 13 can move along the axis C1 inside the handrail holding portion 142.

[0043] In this configuration, the handrail 13 is rotated around the axis C2 relative to the support column while moving along the axis C1 inside the handrail holder 142. As a result, the handrail 13 can be held in the vertical direction, so there is no need to pass through while holding the handrail 13 up. Furthermore, by rotating the handrail holder 142 so that the axis C1 of the handrail holder 142 is aligned in the vertical direction, the handrail 13 moves downward and is maintained in a state aligned in the vertical direction. As a result, the handrail 13 does not become an obstacle. Therefore, it is possible to pass through places where the handrail 13 is installed smoothly.

[0044] Furthermore, the handrail device 1 further includes a second support portion 12 that extends vertically and is different from the first support portion 11 which serves as the support column. One end of the handrail 13 (first end portion 131) is inserted into the handrail holding portion 142. The second support portion 12 has a holding portion (for example, a second holding portion 122) provided at the tip of the second support portion 12, which is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the other end (second end portion 132) of the handrail 13.

[0045] This configuration allows for switching between connecting and disconnecting the other end of the handrail 13 from the holding part, while also enabling smooth passage through areas where the handrail 13 is installed.

[0046] (5) Variant Modifications are described below. These modifications can be applied in appropriate combinations with the above embodiments.

[0047] (5.1) Variation 1 The handrail device 1 may have a locking mechanism as described below. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiment 1. Components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0048] The handrail 13 of the handrail device 1 in Modification Example 1 has a second end portion 132A (see Figure 7). The second support portion 12 of the handrail device 1 in Modification Example 1 has a second holding portion 122A (see Figure 7). The handrail device 1 in Modification Example 1 has a locking portion 16.

[0049] The locking mechanism 16 switches the connection between the handrail 13 and the second retaining part 122A between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking mechanism 16 is formed in a U-shape and is housed in the second retaining part 122A (see Figure 8A). When the connection between the handrail 13 and the second retaining part 122A is in the locked state, the first end 161 of the locking mechanism 16 protrudes from the second retaining part 122A (see Figure 8A).

[0050] The second retaining portion 122A is provided at the tip of the second support portion 12 and is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the second end portion 132A of the handrail 13. The second retaining portion 122A has a first housing portion 171 that houses the locking portion 16. The locking portion 16 is housed in the first housing portion 171 so as to be movable in the left-right direction. The second retaining portion 122A has a second housing portion 172 that is recessed further to the left from the bottom surface (left end surface) of the first housing portion 171. A compression spring 181 is housed in the second housing portion 172. One end of the compression spring 181 is connected to the bottom surface portion 173 of the second housing portion 172 (see Figure 8A). The other end of the compression spring 181 is connected to the side portion 163 of the locking portion 16 (see Figure 8A). When no force is applied to the locking portion 16, the locking portion 16 is pushed to the right by the restoring force of the compression spring 181. As a result, the first end portion 161 of the locking portion 16 protrudes from the opening of the second retaining portion 122A, that is, from the first end portion 175 of the first housing portion 171.

[0051] The second end portion 132A of the handrail 13 has a projection 133 that protrudes in a direction intersecting the axis of the handrail 13 (for example, in the vertical direction). The projection 133 has a through hole 134 along the axis of the handrail 13. When the handrail 13 is connected to the second retaining portion 122A, the projection 133 is provided on the second retaining portion 122A and inserted into a through hole 1221 (see Figure 8A) that is aligned in the vertical direction.

[0052] When the first end 161 of the locking portion 16 protrudes from the first end 175 of the first housing portion 171, the second end 162 of the locking portion 16 protrudes from the second end 176 of the first housing portion 171 and is inserted into the through hole 134 of the protrusion 133 (see Figure 8A). The insertion of the second end 162 of the locking portion 16 into the through hole 134 of the protrusion 133 locks the connection between the handrail 13 and the second holding portion 122A.

[0053] To release the lock, the first end 161 of the locking part 16 is pushed to the left, causing the second end 162 of the locking part 16 to become disengaged from the through hole 134 of the protrusion 133 (see Figure 8B). As a result, the handrail 13 becomes rotatable around the mounting part 14 (see Figure 1).

[0054] (5.2) Variation 2 In Embodiment 1, the first support column 11 and the second support column 12 are attached to the same base 10, but the configuration is not limited to this.

[0055] The first support column 11 and the second support column 12 may be attached to different bases 10 (see Figure 9). Furthermore, the handrail device 1 of the modified example 2 can be connected to at least one (two in the illustrated example) other handrail device 2, as shown in Figure 10.

[0056] (5.3) Modification 3 The first main body portion 111 of the first support column 11 and the second main body portion 121 of the second support column 12 may be configured to be adjustable in height (vertical length).

[0057] (Embodiment 2) In Embodiment 2, the opening and closing direction of the handrail differs from that of Embodiment 1. Below, the handrail device 1B according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figures 11 to 15, focusing on the differences. Components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0058] (1) Overview In Embodiment 2, the left-right and up-down directions are defined for the handrail device 1B, as shown in Figure 11, similar to Embodiment 1. For example, in Figure 11, the direction in which the first support column 11 and the second support column 12, which will be described later, are aligned is defined as the left-right direction, and the direction in which the first support column 11 and the second support column 12 extend is defined as the up-down direction. Figures 11, 12, 15, and 19 to 24 show arrows representing these directions (up, down, left, right), but these arrows are included merely to aid in explanation and do not represent actual functions. Furthermore, the above definitions of directions are not intended to limit the usage of the handrail device 1 in Embodiment 1.

[0059] The handrail device 1B according to Embodiment 2 assists, for example, a user's walking motion. As shown in Figure 11, the handrail device 1B comprises a first support column 11B and a second support column 12B extending in the vertical direction, and a handrail 13B. The handrail 13B extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and is attached to the first support column 11B and the second support column 12B. The handrail 13B includes a first handrail member 201 and a second handrail member 202. One end of the first handrail member 201 is attached to the first support column 11B. One end of the second handrail member 202 is attached to the second support column 12B. The other end of the first handrail member 201 and the other end of the second handrail member 202 are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are not connected, the first handrail member 201 is configured to be rotatable with the above-mentioned end of the first handrail member 201 as a pivot point and an axis running along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are not connected, the second handrail member 202 is configured to be rotatable with the above-mentioned end of the second handrail member 202 as a pivot point and an axis running along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0060] This configuration allows for smooth passage through areas where handrails 13B are installed.

[0061] (2) Composition As shown in Figure 11, the handrail device 1B according to Embodiment 2 comprises a base 10, a first support column 11B, a second support column 12B, and a handrail 13B. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 11, the handrail device 1B comprises a plurality (two in the illustrated example) of first rotation control members 210 and a plurality (two in the illustrated example) of second rotation control members 211.

[0062] In Embodiment 2, both the first support column 11B and the second support column 12B are attached to a single base 10.

[0063] The first support column 11B extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first support column 11B is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figure 11, the first support column 11B has a first main body 111 and a first connecting member 113.

[0064] The first main body portion 111 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first main body portion 111 is attached to the base 10. A first connecting member 113 is provided at the upper end of the first main body portion 111. A second connecting member 15 is connected to the first connecting member 113 (see Figure 11). The configurations of the first connecting member 113 and the second connecting member 15 have been described in Embodiment 1, so a detailed explanation is omitted here.

[0065] The second support column 12B extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second support column 12B is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figure 11, the second support column 12B has a second main body 121 and a third connecting member 123.

[0066] The second main body portion 121 extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second main body portion 121 is attached to the base 10. A third connecting member 123 is provided at the upper end of the second main body portion 121. The second connecting member 15 is connected to the third connecting member 123 (see Figure 11). The third connecting member 123 in Embodiment 2 has the same structure as the first connecting member 113.

[0067] The handrail device 1B of Embodiment 2 can be connected to other handrail devices, similar to the handrail device 1. Figure 15 shows the case where other handrail devices 2 are connected to the second connecting member 15 connected to the first support column 11B and the second connecting member 15 connected to the second support column 12B.

[0068] Multiple first rotation control members 210 correspond one-to-one with the first support portion 11B and the second support portion 12B. Multiple first rotation control members 210 are formed in a cylindrical shape. A corresponding support portion from the first support portion 11B and the second support portion 12B is inserted into each of the multiple first rotation control members 210. Each of the multiple first rotation control members 210 is configured to rotate relative to the inserted support portion, with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0069] Multiple second rotation control members 211 correspond one-to-one to the first support portion 11B and the second support portion 12B. Multiple second rotation control members 211 also correspond one-to-one to multiple first rotation control members 210. Multiple second rotation control members 211 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The corresponding support portion from the first support portion 11B and the second support portion 12B is inserted into each of the multiple second rotation control members 211, and the second second rotation control member 211 is fixed below the corresponding first rotation control member 210.

[0070] Each of the multiple second rotation control members 211 has an inner circumferential surface that inclines upward along the clockwise direction of the inner circumferential surface starting from a predetermined position, and a second inclined surface that inclines upward along the counterclockwise direction of the inner circumferential surface starting from a predetermined position.

[0071] The lower tips of the multiple first rotation control members 210 are fitted between the outer circumferential surface of the corresponding support portion among the first support portion 11B and the second support portion 12B and the inner circumferential surface of the corresponding second rotation control member 211 among the multiple second rotation control members 211, and are in point contact or line contact with the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface at the predetermined position. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are connected, the lower tips of the multiple first rotation control members 210 are in point contact or line contact with the corresponding second rotation control member 211 at the predetermined position. For each of the multiple first rotation control members 210, as the first rotation control member 210 rotates, the lower tip of the first rotation control member 210 moves along the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface, so that the first rotation control member 210 moves upward. When the rotation of the first rotation control member 210 stops, it attempts to move downward due to its own weight, so the lower tip of the first rotation control member 210 moves downward along the first or second inclined surface. In other words, the first rotation control member 210 moves downward while rotating.

[0072] The handrail 13B extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and is attached to the first support column 11B and the second support column 12B. As shown in Figure 11, the handrail 13B includes a first handrail member 201 and a second handrail member 202. One end of the first handrail member 201 is attached to the end (here, the tip) of the first support column 11B. One end of the second handrail member 202 is attached to the end (here, the tip) of the second support column 12B. The other end of the first handrail member 201 and the other end of the second handrail member 202 are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are disconnected, the first handrail member 201 is configured to rotate with the aforementioned end of the first handrail member 201 as a pivot point and an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are not connected, the second handrail member 202 is configured to be rotatable with the aforementioned end of the second handrail member 202 as a pivot point and an axis running vertically along that axis as the axis of rotation.

[0073] The first handrail member 201 is linear in shape. The first handrail member 201 has a first mounting member 204. The first mounting member 204 is provided at one end of the first handrail member 201. The first mounting member 204 has a first member 205 and a second member 206 configured to be connectable to the first member 205. When the first member 205 and the second member 206 are connected, an annular shape is formed at the tip of the first mounting member 204, opening vertically. The inner diameter of this annular shape is approximately the same as the diameter of the first main body 111.

[0074] When connecting the first mounting member 204 to the first support column 11B (first main body 111), the first member 205 and the second member 206 are connected so as to sandwich the first main body 111. This allows the first mounting member 204 to rotate around an axis running in the vertical direction. In other words, the first handrail member 201 can rotate around the first mounting member 204, which is provided at one end of the first handrail member 201, as a pivot point, with an axis running in the vertical direction as its axis of rotation.

[0075] The first mounting member 204 is connected to the first rotation control member 210 provided on the first support column 11B, one of a plurality of first rotation control members 210, via a connecting member 215. That is, when the first handrail member 201 rotates around an axis that runs vertically, the first rotation control member 210 provided on the first support column 11B also rotates in accordance with that rotation.

[0076] The second handrail member 202 is linear in shape. The second handrail member 202 has a second mounting member 207. The second mounting member 207 is provided at one end of the second handrail member 202. The second mounting member 207 has a third member 208 and a fourth member 209 configured to be connectable to the third member 208. When the third member 208 and the fourth member 209 are connected, the tip of the second mounting member 207 forms an annular opening that extends vertically. The inner diameter of this annular opening is approximately the same as the diameter of the second main body 121.

[0077] When connecting the second mounting member 207 to the second support column 12B (second main body 121), the third member 208 and the fourth member 209 are connected so as to sandwich the second main body 121. This allows the second mounting member 207 to rotate around an axis running vertically. In other words, the second handrail member 202 can rotate around the second mounting member 207, which is provided at one end of the second handrail member 202, as a pivot point, with an axis running vertically as its axis of rotation.

[0078] The second mounting member 207 is connected to the first rotation control member 210 provided on the second support column 12B, one of the multiple first rotation control members 210, via a connecting member 216. That is, when the second handrail member 202 rotates around an axis that runs vertically, the first rotation control member 210 provided on the second support column 12B also rotates in accordance with that rotation.

[0079] As described above, one end of the first handrail member 201 is attached to the end (in this case, the tip) of the first support column 11B. One end of the second handrail member 202 is attached to the end (in this case, the tip) of the second support column 12B. The other end of the first handrail member 201 and the other end of the second handrail member 202 are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected.

[0080] The first handrail member 201 has a first connecting member 220 (see Figure 12). The first connecting member 220 is provided at the other end of the first handrail member 201. The tip of the first connecting member 220 is provided with a pair of plate-shaped tip portions 221 that face each other in the vertical direction (see Figure 13). That is, the tip of the first connecting member 220 is formed in a U shape. A through hole 223 is provided in the center of the connecting portion 222 that connects the pair of tip portions 221 (see Figure 14). The first connecting member 220 accommodates at least a portion of a projection member 240 that is aligned along the axis of the first handrail member 201. The edge of one end of the projection member 240 is rounded. A compression spring 225 is connected to the other end of the projection member 240 so that the projection member 240 can move along the axis of the first handrail member 201 (see Figure 14). When no force is applied to the projection member 240, the restoring force of the compression spring 225 connected to the projection member 240 causes one end of the projection member 240 to protrude from the through hole 223 of the joint portion 222. When force is applied to the projection member 240, the projection member 240 is pushed in along the axis of the first handrail member 201, and the amount of protrusion of one end of the projection member 240 decreases.

[0081] The second handrail member 202 has a second connecting member 230 (see Figure 12). The second connecting member 230 is provided at the other end of the second handrail member 202. The tip of the second connecting member 230 is provided with a pair of plate-shaped tip portions 231 that face each other in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. That is, the tip of the second connecting member 230 is formed in a U shape. The inner surfaces of the pair of tip portions 231 are tapered so that their thickness decreases as they approach the tip.

[0082] When the other end of the first handrail member 201 and the other end of the second handrail member 202 are connected, that is, when the handrail 13B is in the closed state, the projection member 240 is located between the pair of tip portions 231 of the second connecting member 230. When the state of the handrail 13B is changed from the closed state to the open state, rotating the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 around an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation causes one of the pair of tip portions 231 to make point contact with one end of the projection member 240. Further rotation of the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 pushes the projection member 240 inward due to the shape of the inner surface of the tip portion 231, reducing the amount of protrusion of one end of the projection member 240. Further rotation of the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 causes the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 to separate. In other words, the handrail 13B is in the open position (see Figure 12).

[0083] Furthermore, the handrail device 1B includes a cover 300, as shown in Figure 11. The cover 300 is cylindrical in shape. The cover 300 is mounted on the handrail 13B so as to be movable along the handrail 13B. When the handrail 13B is in the closed state, the cover 300 is positioned to cover the pair of tip ends 221 of the first connecting member 220 and the pair of tip ends 231 of the second connecting member 230. This prevents the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 from rotating with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0084] To change the state of the handrail 13B from the closed state to the open state, the cover 300 can be slid, which allows the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 to rotate using an axis running vertically as the axis of rotation.

[0085] (3) Effects As described above, the handrail device 1B according to Embodiment 2 comprises a first support column 11B and a second support column 12B extending in the vertical direction, and a handrail 13B. The handrail 13B extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and is attached to the first support column 11B and the second support column 12B. The handrail 13B includes a first handrail member 201 and a second handrail member 202. One end of the first handrail member 201 is attached to the first support column 11B. One end of the second handrail member 202 is attached to the second support column 12B. The other end of the first handrail member 201 and the other end of the second handrail member 202 are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are disconnected, the first handrail member 201 is configured to be rotatable with the aforementioned one end of the first handrail member 201 as a pivot point and an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are not connected, the second handrail member 202 is configured to be rotatable with the aforementioned end of the second handrail member 202 as a pivot point and an axis running vertically along that axis as the axis of rotation.

[0086] With this configuration, the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 rotate around their vertical axis, so there is no need to lift the handrail 13B. Therefore, there is no need to pass through while holding up the handrail 13B. Since the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 rotate around their vertical axis, the handrail 13B does not become an obstacle when passing through. Therefore, it is possible to pass through areas where the handrail 13B is installed smoothly.

[0087] (4) Variations Modifications are described below. These modifications can be applied in appropriate combinations with the above embodiments.

[0088] (4.1) Variation 1 The handrail device 1B may have a locking mechanism as described below. The following description will focus on the differences from Embodiment 2. Components similar to those in Embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0089] The first handrail member 201 of the modified example 1B has a first connecting member 220C, which is provided at the other end of the first handrail member 201. The tip of the first connecting member 220C is provided with a pair of plate-shaped tip portions 221 that face each other in the vertical direction. That is, the tip of the first connecting member 220C is formed in a U shape. A through hole 223 is provided in the center of the connecting portion 222 that connects the pair of tip portions 221 (see Figure 16). The first connecting member 220C accommodates at least a portion of a projection member 240C that is aligned along the axis of the first handrail member 201. The edge of one end of the projection member 240C is rounded. A compression spring 225 is connected to the other end of the projection member 240C so that the projection member 240C can move along the axis of the first handrail member 201 (see Figure 16). When no force is applied to the projection member 240C, the restoring force of the compression spring 225 connected to the projection member 240C causes one end of the projection member 240C to protrude from the through hole 223 of the connecting portion 222. When force is applied to the projection member 240C, the projection member 240 is pushed in along the axis of the first handrail member 201, and the amount of protrusion of one end of the projection member 240 decreases. The first connecting member 220C also has a groove 241.

[0090] The first connecting member 220C houses the locking portion 250. The locking portion 250 is positioned to be movable vertically by a compression spring 260. When no force is applied to the locking portion 250, the restoring force of the compression spring 260 causes the locking portion 250 to move upward. Here, the restoring force of the compression spring 260 is smaller than the restoring force of the compression spring 225.

[0091] When no force is applied to the projection member 240C, and the projection member 240 protrudes from the through hole 223 of the joint portion 222 due to the restoring force of the compression spring 225, the locking portion 250 is in contact with a part of the outer circumferential surface 242 of the projection member 240C. This suppresses the upward movement of the locking portion 250.

[0092] The handrail device 1B of the modified example 1 includes a cover 300C (see Figure 16). The cover 300C is cylindrical in shape. The cover 300C is mounted on the handrail 13B so as to be movable along the handrail 13B. When the handrail 13B is in the closed state, the cover 300C is positioned to cover the pair of tip ends 221 of the first connecting member 220C and the pair of tip ends 231 of the second connecting member 230 (see Figure 13). This prevents the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 from rotating around an axis running vertically. When changing the state of the handrail 13B from the closed state to the open state, the cover 300C can be slid to allow the first handrail member 201C and the second handrail member 202 to rotate around an axis running vertically.

[0093] The cover 300C has a through hole 301 and a slit portion 302 on its lower side. When no force is applied to the projection member 240C and the projection member 240 protrudes from the through hole 223 of the coupling portion 222 due to the restoring force of the compression spring 225, the tip portion 251 of the lock portion 250 is exposed from the through hole 301 (see Figure 16). That is, the tip portion 251 of the lock portion 250 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the first coupling member 220C. When no force is applied to the projection member 240C and the projection member 240 protrudes from the through hole 223 of the coupling portion 222 due to the restoring force of the compression spring 225, the tip portion 251 of the lock portion 250 can also be exposed from the slit portion 302. When the tip portion 251 of the lock portion 250 is exposed from the through hole 301, the cover 300C cannot be slid. When the tip 251 of the locking portion 250 is exposed from the slit portion 302, the cover 300C is slidable along the slit portion 302.

[0094] Cover 300C is connected to a movable spring (not shown). The movable spring applies a force to cover 300C that causes it to move to the left.

[0095] The operation of the handrail device 1B in Modification 1 when the handrail 13B in Modification 1 changes from the open state to the closed state will be explained below.

[0096] When the handrail 13B is in the open position, the tip 251 of the locking part 250 is exposed through the through hole 301 (see Figure 16). When the tip 251 of the locking part 250 is exposed through the through hole 301, the leftward movement of the cover 300C by the moving spring is prevented because the tip 251 of the locking part 250 is exposed through the through hole 301.

[0097] By rotating the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 around an axis running vertically, one of the pair of tip portions 231 of the second connecting member 230 comes into contact with one end of the projection member 240C. As a result, force is applied to the projection member 240C, causing it to move to the right. When the groove portion 241 of the projection member 240C moves above the lock portion 250, the compression spring 260 moves the lock portion 260 upward. Consequently, a portion of the lock portion 260 fits into the groove portion 241 of the projection member 240C (see Figure 17). At this time, the first tapered surface 243 provided on the groove portion 241 of the projection member 240C and the second tapered surface 252 provided on the lock portion 250 overlap.

[0098] When a portion of the locking part 260 engages with the groove 241 of the projection member 240C, the restraint on the cover 300C's leftward movement by the moving spring is released, and the cover 300C moves to the left. As the cover 300C moves to the left, the tip 251 of the locking part 250 is positioned above the slit 302 of the cover 300C.

[0099] When the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 are further rotated around an axis running vertically, one of the pair of tip portions 231 of the second connecting member 230 and one end of the projection member 240C become non-contact. As a result, no force is applied to the projection member 240C. When no force is applied to the projection member 240C, the locking portion 250 is no longer subjected to the upward force of the cover 300C, and the restoring force of the compression spring 260 is less than the restoring force of the compression spring 225, so the projection member 240 moves to the left. As a result, the tip of the projection member 240 is fitted between the pair of tip portions 231 (see Figure 18). Furthermore, as the projection member 240 moves to the left with the first tapered surface 243 of the projection member 240C and the second tapered surface 252 of the locking portion 250 overlapping, the locking portion 250 is pushed downward. As a result, the tip 251 of the locking portion 250 is exposed from the slit portion 302 (see Figure 18). That is, the tip 251 of the locking portion 250 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the first connecting member 220C.

[0100] (4.2) Modification 2 In Embodiment 2, the first support column 11B and the second support column 12B are attached to the same base 10, but the configuration is not limited to this.

[0101] The first support column 11B and the second support column 12B may be attached to different bases 10 (see Figure 19). Furthermore, the handrail device 1B of the modified example 2 can be connected to at least one (two in the illustrated example) other handrail device 2, as shown in Figure 20.

[0102] (4.3) Modification example 3 In Modification 3, the component that makes the handrail rotatable also incorporates a rotation control mechanism, which is different from the handrail device 2B of Embodiment 2. The following will focus on the differences. Components identical to those in Embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0103] As shown in Figure 21, the handrail device 1D according to the modified example 3 comprises a base 10, a first support column 11D, a second support column 12D, and a handrail 13D. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 21, the handrail device 1D comprises a plurality (two in the illustrated example) of first mounting members 204D and second mounting members 207D corresponding to the first rotation control member 210 (see Figure 11) described above, and a plurality (two in the illustrated example) of second rotation control members 211.

[0104] In the third modified example, both the first support column 11D and the second support column 12D are attached to a single base 10.

[0105] The first support column 11D extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the first support column 11D is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figure 21, the first support column 11D has a first main body 111 and a first connecting member 113.

[0106] The second support column 12D extends in the vertical direction. The lower end of the second support column 12D is attached to the base 10. As shown in Figure 21, the second support column 12D has a second main body 121 and a third connecting member 123.

[0107] The handrail 13D extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and is attached to the first support column 11D and the second support column 12D. As shown in Figure 21, the handrail 13D includes a first handrail member 201D and a second handrail member 202D. One end of the first handrail member 201D is attached to the first support column 11D. One end of the second handrail member 202D is attached to the second support column 12D. The other end of the first handrail member 201D and the other end of the second handrail member 202D are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D are disconnected, the first handrail member 201D is configured to rotate with the aforementioned one end of the first handrail member 201D as a pivot point and an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. When the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D are not connected, the second handrail member 202D is configured to be rotatable with the aforementioned end of the second handrail member 202D as a pivot point and an axis running vertically along that axis as the axis of rotation.

[0108] The first handrail member 201D has a first mounting member 204D. The first mounting member 204D is provided at one end of the first handrail member 201D. The first mounting member 204D has a cylindrical portion 2041 formed in a cylindrical shape. The first support column 11D is inserted into the cylindrical portion 2041. The first mounting member 204D is configured to be rotatable relative to the first support column 11D with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0109] The second handrail member 202D has a second mounting member 207D. The second mounting member 207D is provided at one end of the second handrail member 202D. The second mounting member 207D has a cylindrical portion 2071 formed in a cylindrical shape. The second support column 12D is inserted into the cylindrical portion 2071. The second mounting member 207D is configured to be rotatable relative to the second support column 12D with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0110] Multiple second rotation control members 211 correspond one-to-one to the first support portion 11D and the second support portion 12D. Multiple second rotation control members 211 also correspond one-to-one to the first mounting member 204D and the second mounting member 207D. Multiple second rotation control members 211 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The corresponding support portion of the first support portion 11D and the second support portion 12D is inserted into each of the multiple second rotation control members 211, and they are fixed below the corresponding mounting portion of the first mounting member 204D and the second mounting member 207D.

[0111] Each of the multiple second rotation control members 211 has an inner circumferential surface that inclines upward along the clockwise direction of the inner circumferential surface starting from a predetermined position, and a second inclined surface that inclines upward along the counterclockwise direction of the inner circumferential surface starting from a predetermined position.

[0112] The lower tip of the first mounting member 204D is fitted between the outer circumferential surface of the first support column 11D and the inner circumferential surface of the corresponding second rotation control member 211 among the plurality of second rotation control members 211, and is in point contact or line contact with the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface at the predetermined position. When the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D are connected, the lower tip of the first mounting member 204D is in point contact or line contact with the corresponding second rotation control member 211 among the plurality of second rotation control members 211 at the predetermined position. As the first mounting member 204D rotates, the lower tip of the first mounting member 204D moves along the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface, so that the first mounting member 204D moves upward. When the rotation of the first mounting member 204D stops, it attempts to move downward due to its own weight, so the lower tip of the first mounting member 204D moves downward along the first or second inclined surface. In other words, the first mounting member 204D moves downward while rotating.

[0113] The lower tip of the second mounting member 207D is fitted between the outer circumferential surface of the second support column 12D and the inner circumferential surface of the corresponding second rotation control member 211 among the plurality of second rotation control members 211, and is in point contact or line contact with the first inclined surface and the second inclined surface at the predetermined position. When the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D are connected, the lower tip of the second mounting member 207D is in point contact or line contact with the corresponding second rotation control member 211 among the plurality of second rotation control members 211 at the predetermined position. As the second mounting member 207D rotates, the lower tip of the second mounting member 207D moves along the first inclined surface or the second inclined surface, so that the second mounting member 207D moves upward. When the rotation of the second mounting member 207D stops, it attempts to move downward due to its own weight, so the lower tip of the second mounting member 207D moves downward along the first or second inclined surface. In other words, the second mounting member 207D moves downward while rotating.

[0114] As described above, a first mounting member 204D is provided at one end of the first handrail member 201D. A second mounting member 207D is provided at one end of the second handrail member 202D.

[0115] The first handrail member 201D has a connecting member 215D that connects the other end of the first handrail member 201D to the lower end 2042 of the first mounting member 204D. In other words, the first handrail member 201D is configured to form a closed region 217D. The second handrail member 202D has a connecting member 216D that connects the other end of the second handrail member 202D to the lower end 2072 of the second mounting member 207D. In other words, the second handrail member 202D is configured to form a closed region 218D. The formation of closed regions 217D and 218D prevents the ends of the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D from getting caught in the sleeves of users (pedestrians) using the handrail device 1D. In other words, it prevents users from falling due to the ends of the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D getting caught in their sleeves. Plate-shaped members may be fitted into the closed regions 217D and 218D.

[0116] Furthermore, the handrail device 1D includes a cover 300D as shown in Figure 21. The cover 300D is mounted on the handrail 13D so as to be movable along the handrail 13D. The cover 300D has a stopper 301D. The stopper 301D contacts the connecting member 215D to prevent movement to the left. When the handrail 13D is in the closed state, the cover 300D is positioned to cover the other end of the first handrail member 201D and the other end of the second handrail member 202D. This prevents the first handrail member 201 and the second handrail member 202 from rotating with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0117] To change the state of the handrail 13D from the closed state to the open state, the cover 300D can be slid, allowing the first handrail member 201D and the second handrail member 202D to rotate around an axis running vertically.

[0118] Note that the handrail device 1D of the modified example 3 can be connected to other handrail devices, similar to handrail devices 1 and 1B. Figure 22 shows the case where other handrail devices 2 are connected to the second connecting member 15 connected to the first support column 11D and the second connecting member 15 connected to the second support column 12D.

[0119] Furthermore, in Modification 3, the first support portion 11D and the second support portion 12D are attached to the same base 10, but the configuration is not limited to this. The first support portion 11D and the second support portion 12D may be attached to different bases 10 (see Figure 23). Note that the handrail device 1D of Modification 3 can be connected to at least one (two in the illustrated example) other handrail device 2, as shown in Figure 24.

[0120] (4.4) Modification 4 The first main body portion 111 of the first support column 11B and the second main body portion 121 of the second support column 12B may be configured to be adjustable in height (vertical length).

[0121] (Embodiment 3) Embodiment 3 is the same as Modification 3 of Embodiment 2 in that the handrail rotates around the axis of rotation of the support column, but it differs from Modification 3 in that the handrail member does not need to switch between being connected to and disconnected from other handrail members. The differences will be explained below. Components identical to those in Embodiment 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

[0122] As shown in Figure 25, the handrail device 1E according to Embodiment 3 comprises a base 10, a first support column 11E, a second support column 12E, and a pair of handrails 13E. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 25, the handrail device 1E comprises a pair of first handrail holding parts 410, a pair of second handrail holding parts 420, and a pair of connecting members 430.

[0123] The first support section 11E and the second support section 12E extend in the vertical direction. The first support section 11E has a first main body section 111, and the second support section 12E has a second main body section 121. In addition, each of the first support section 11E and the second support section 12E has a rotating shaft member 440.

[0124] The pair of handrails 13E of the handrail device 1E correspond one-to-one with the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E. That is, one of the pair of handrails 13E is provided on the first support column 11E, and the other of the pair of handrails 13E is provided on the second support column 12E.

[0125] Furthermore, each pair of handrails 13E corresponds one-to-one with each of the pair of first handrail holders 410, the pair of second handrail holders 420, and the pair of connecting members 430. That is, one handrail 13E corresponds to one of the pair of first handrail holders 410, one of the pair of second handrail holders 420, and one of the pair of connecting members 430. The other handrail 13E corresponds to the other of the pair of first handrail holders 410, the other of the pair of second handrail holders 420, and the other of the pair of connecting members 430.

[0126] A pair of handrails 13E are held by the handrail holders (first handrail holder 410, second handrail holder 420) in a direction that intersects the vertical direction (for example, the left-right direction). In other words, the handrail holders (first handrail holder 410, second handrail holder 420) hold the handrails 13E in a direction that intersects the vertical direction (for example, the left-right direction). The handrail holders (first handrail holder 410, second handrail holder 420) are configured to rotate with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0127] The configuration of the handrail device 1E will be described below.

[0128] The handrail 13E has a first handrail 401 and a second handrail 402. The first handrail 401 and the second handrail 402 are arranged along the vertical direction. Specifically, the first handrail 401 is positioned above the second handrail 402. One end of the first handrail 401 is connected to the second handrail holder 420. The first handrail 401 extends from the end connected to the second handrail holder 420 along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. One end of the second handrail 402 is connected to the first handrail holder 410. The second handrail 402 extends from the end connected to the first handrail holder 410 along a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction. The other end of the first handrail 401 is connected to the other end of the second handrail 402. That is, the first handrail 401 and the second handrail 402 form a rectangular region R1.

[0129] The second handrail holder 420 has a convex portion 421, a protruding portion 422, and a connecting portion 423. The convex portion 421 protrudes downward and is fitted onto the tip of the rotating shaft member 440. The protruding portion 422 protrudes in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and is fitted onto the tip of the first handrail 401. When the protruding portion 422 is fitted onto the tip of the first handrail 401, the protruding portion 422 and the first handrail 401 are connected by screws or the like. As a result, the first handrail 401 is held by the second handrail holder 420. The connecting portion 423 is connected to the connecting member 430.

[0130] The connecting member 430 has a first connecting member 431 and a second connecting member 432. The first connecting member 431 and the second connecting member 432 are attached to the second handrail holding part 420 so as to surround a part of the second handrail holding part 420. When the first connecting member 431 and the second connecting member 432 are attached to the second handrail holding part 420, a gap is formed between one end 433 of the first connecting member 431 and one end 434 of the second connecting member 432. The connecting part 423 of the second handrail holding part 420 is fitted into this gap.

[0131] The first handrail holding portion 410 includes a first cover portion 410a (see Figure 26), a second cover portion 410b (see Figure 26), and a holding member 411 (see Figures 27 and 28).

[0132] The first cover portion 410a and the second cover portion 410b are assembled along the vertical direction. When assembled, the first cover portion 410a and the second cover portion 410b cover a part of the retaining member 411. The first cover portion 410a and the second cover portion 410b are formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The first cover portion 410a and the second cover portion 410b are connected to the retaining member 411 by screws or the like.

[0133] The holding member 411 has a main body portion 411a and a protruding portion 412. The main body portion 411a is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The corresponding support portion from the first support portion 11E and the second support portion 12E is inserted into the opening 415 of the main body portion 411a. Specifically, the upper end of the main body portion (for example, the first main body portion 111) of the corresponding support portion from the first support portion 11E and the second support portion 12E, and a part of the rotating shaft member 440 are inserted into the opening 415 of the main body portion 411a.

[0134] The main body portion 411a has a plurality of (three in the illustrated example) first protrusions 413 that project inward along the radial direction of the main body portion 411a on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end portion of the main body portion 411a. The three first protrusions 413 are provided at equal intervals (here, at 120-degree intervals) on the inner circumferential surface of the upper end portion of the main body portion 411a. The main body portion 411a has a plurality of (for example, four) second protrusions 414 that project inward along the radial direction of the main body portion 411a on the inner circumferential surface below the plurality of first protrusions 413. Note that in Figure 28, three second protrusions 414 are shown. The four second protrusions 414 are provided at equal intervals (here, at 90-degree intervals) on the inner circumferential surface of the main body portion 411a.

[0135] The protruding portion 412 extends from the main body portion 411a in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction and is fitted onto the tip of the second handrail 402. Once the protruding portion 412 is fitted onto the tip of the second handrail 402, the protruding portion 412 and the second handrail 402 are connected by screws or the like. As a result, the second handrail 402 is held by the first handrail holding portion 410.

[0136] As shown in Figure 29, the rotating shaft member 440 has a first rotating shaft member 441 and a second rotating shaft member 442. The first rotating shaft member 441 is attached to the tip of the second rotating shaft member 442.

[0137] As shown in Figure 26, the first rotating shaft member 441 has a first cylindrical portion 443 and a second cylindrical portion 444. The second cylindrical portion 444 is positioned on top of the first cylindrical portion 443. The first cylindrical portion 443 and the second cylindrical portion 444 are formed in a cylindrical shape with different diameters from each other. Here, the diameter of the first cylindrical portion 443 is larger than the diameter of the second member. Also, the lower part of the first cylindrical portion 443 is open. The diameter of the inner circumferential surface of the lower part of the first cylindrical portion 443 is larger than the diameter of the outer circumferential surface of the second cover portion 410b. A recess 445 is formed at the tip of the second cylindrical portion 444. The protrusion 421 of the second handrail holding portion 420 is fitted into the recess 445.

[0138] The second rotating shaft member 442 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The lower end of the second rotating shaft member 442 is fitted into the upper end of the main body of the corresponding support column (first main body 111 or second main body 121) of the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E. Figure 29 shows an example in which the lower end of the second rotating shaft member 442 is fitted into the upper end of the first main body 11 of the first support column 11E.

[0139] The second rotating shaft member 442 is provided with a first restricting portion 450 and a second restricting portion 460. The first restricting portion 450 is provided on the second rotating shaft member 442 above the second restricting portion 460. The first restricting portion 450 and the second restricting portion 460 are inserted into the opening 415 of the main body portion 411a described above. At this time, each second protrusion 414 of the main body portion 411a is provided between the first restricting portion 450 and the second restricting portion 460. As a result, the holding member 411 of the first handrail holding portion 410 is configured to be movable up and down between the first restricting portion 450 and the second restricting portion 460.

[0140] Furthermore, the upper end of the main body portion of the corresponding support column (for example, the first main body portion 111) from the first support column portion 11E and the second support column portion 12E, and the first restricting portion 450 and the second restricting portion 460 are inserted into the opening 415 of the main body portion 411a. However, the main body portion 411a is not fixed to the inserted members. Therefore, the main body portion 411a, i.e., the first handrail holding portion 410, is configured to be rotatable with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0141] The second restricting portion 460 is located above the lower end of the second rotating shaft member 442. As shown in Figure 29, the second restricting portion 460 has a locking portion 461 and a plurality (in this case, eight) of rotation restricting portions 462.

[0142] The locking portion 461 protrudes outward along the radial direction of the second rotating shaft member 442. The lower surface of the locking portion 461 abuts against the upper end of the main body portion (first main body portion 111 or second main body portion 121) of the corresponding support portion among the first support portion 11E and the second support portion 12E. This prevents the second rotating shaft member 442 from moving downward.

[0143] Multiple (in this case, eight) rotation restricting portions 462 are provided so as to protrude upward from the upper surface of the locking portion 461, that is, the surface opposite to the surface of the corresponding support portion of the first support portion 11E and the second support portion 12E that abuts the upper end of the main body. Furthermore, the multiple (in this case, eight) rotation restricting portions 462 are provided on the upper surface of the locking portion 461 at equal intervals (in this case, 45-degree intervals). As a result, a total of eight groove portions 463 are formed by two adjacent rotation restricting portions 462, at equal intervals (in this case, 45-degree intervals). In addition, the width of the tip of each rotation restricting portion 462 is formed to gradually narrow. Furthermore, three of the multiple (in this case, eight) groove portions 463, which are arranged at equal intervals (in this case, 120 degrees), have three second protrusions 414 of the main body portion 411a that fit one-to-one into each of them.

[0144] The first rotating shaft member 441 has a movable locking portion 451 and a plurality (in this case, eight) of rotating guide portions 452.

[0145] The movable locking portion 451 protrudes outward along the radial direction of the second rotating shaft member 442, restricting the range of movement of the holding member 411. Specifically, when the holding member 411 moves upward, each of the second protrusions 414 on the main body portion 411a abuts against the lower surface of the movable locking portion 451, thereby preventing further upward movement.

[0146] Multiple (eight in this case) rotation guide sections 452 are provided on the lower surface of the movable locking section 451, protruding downward. Furthermore, multiple (eight in this case) rotation guide sections 452 are provided on the upper surface of the locking section 461 at equal intervals (45-degree intervals in this case). In addition, each rotation guide section 452 has a tapered surface formed so that the width of its tip gradually narrows. Multiple rotation guide sections 452 are provided above multiple groove sections 463.

[0147] When rotating the first handrail holder 410, the first handrail holder 410 is moved upward. At this time, each second protrusion 414 contacts the rotation guide portion 452 provided above. Subsequently, when the first handrail holder 410 is rotated clockwise or counterclockwise, the second protrusion 414 moves along the tapered surface of the rotation guide portion 452 and then contacts the lower surface of the movement locking portion 451. Further rotation brings the second protrusion 414 into contact with the adjacent rotation guide portion 452. Furthermore, the second protrusion 414 can be moved along the tapered surface of the adjacent rotation guide portion 452 and fitted into the adjacent groove portion 463. This allows the first handrail holder 410 to be rotated by 45 degrees. Furthermore, if the first handrail holding portion 410 is to be rotated by more than 45 degrees, the second protrusion 414 is not fitted into the adjacent groove 463, but rather rotated further and fitted into the groove 463 corresponding to the desired rotation position.

[0148] The movable locking portion 451 is provided with multiple (in this case, three) gaps 453. Each gap 453 is provided at equal intervals (in this case, at 120-degree intervals). The gaps 453 are for the second protrusion 414 to pass through when attaching the first handrail holding portion 410 to the corresponding support portion of the first support portion 11E and the second support portion 12E. After inserting the second rotating shaft member 442 into the opening 415 of the main body portion 411a, the first rotating shaft member 441 is attached to the second rotating shaft member 442. When the first handrail holding portion 410 is rotated, there is a possibility that the second protrusion 414 may move upward through the gaps 453. To prepare for such a case, the first protrusion 413 is provided on the main body portion 411a. When the second protrusion 414 moves upward through the gap 453, the first protrusion 413 comes into contact with the inside of the first rotating shaft member 441, thereby preventing the first handrail holding portion 410 from moving upward.

[0149] As described above, the handrail 13E is connected to the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420. Specifically, the first handrail 401 of the handrail 13E is connected to the second handrail holder 420, and the second handrail 402 of the handrail 13E is connected to the first handrail holder 410. Furthermore, the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420 are not fixed to the corresponding support columns of the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E by screws or the like, and are configured to rotate with respect to an axis along the vertical direction. In addition, the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420 are configured to move within a predetermined range along the vertical direction (the range between the first restricting portion 450 and the second restricting portion 460).

[0150] Therefore, when the handrail 13E is moved upward, the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420 also move upward in conjunction with it. Furthermore, when the handrail 13E is rotated, the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420 also move upward in conjunction with it. When the handrail 13E is moved downward, the first handrail holder 410 and the second handrail holder 420 also move downward in conjunction with it. In other words, the handrail 13E can be rotated by operating the handrail 13E.

[0151] In the handrail device 1E, the second protrusion 414 is normally fitted into the groove 463, so the handrail 13E cannot be rotated. In other words, the handrail device 1E is normally in a locked state. When the handrail 13E is moved upward while the rotation is locked, the second protrusion 414 moves above the tip of the rotation restricting part 462. This releases the rotation lock, making it possible to rotate. In other words, the operation of moving the handrail 13E upward is also the operation of releasing the rotation lock.

[0152] When the handrail 13E is moved upward, the second handrail holder 420 also moves upward in conjunction. At this time, when the handrail device 1E is viewed from a direction perpendicular to both the vertical and horizontal directions, a part of the connecting portion 423 of the second handrail holder 420 overlaps with one end 434 of the second connecting member 432 of the connecting member 430 (see Figure 30). Similarly, when the handrail device 1E is viewed from a direction perpendicular to both the vertical and horizontal directions, a part of the connecting portion 423 of the second handrail holder 420 overlaps with one end 433 of the first connecting member 431 of the connecting member 430. Therefore, when the second handrail holder 420 rotates, the connecting member 430 also rotates in conjunction with it. This makes it easier to fit the connecting portion 423 of the second handrail holder 420 into the gap between one end 433 of the first connecting member 431 and one end 434 of the second connecting member 432 after the position of the handrail 13E after rotation is determined.

[0153] Furthermore, since the diameter of the inner surface below the first cylindrical portion 443 is larger than the diameter of the outer surface of the second cover portion 410b, when the handrail 13E is moved upward, the upper end of the second cover portion 410b is stored below the first cylindrical portion 443. Therefore, the upward movement of the handrail 13E can be performed smoothly.

[0154] The handrail holders (first handrail holder 410, second handrail holder 420) are configured to rotate around an axis running vertically. That is, the handrail 13E is configured to rotate around an axis running vertically. For example, it is possible to change from a first state (see Figures 31 and 32) in which a pair of handrails 13E are provided so as to extend between the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E, to a second state (see Figures 33 and 34) in which each of the pair of handrails 13E is provided so as to extend in a direction perpendicular to the direction from the first support column 11E to the second support column 12E.

[0155] In the first state, the handrail device 1E can be used as a handrail when walking along the longitudinal direction of the base 10. In the second state, the handrail device 1E can be used as a handrail when walking along the short direction of the base 10.

[0156] Furthermore, the space between the second handrail 402 and the base 10 is wider compared to the handrail device 1D of the modified example 3 of Embodiment 2. For example, when the handrail device 1E is installed beside the user's bed, there is space between the second handrail 402 and the base 10, so even when the user is sitting beside the bed, they can place both their feet on the base 10 below the second handrail 402. Then, the handrail device 1E can be set to the second state, and the handrail 13E can be used as support when the user stands up. In other words, the handrail device 1E can also be used as an assistive device when the user stands up. At this time, it is preferable that the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E are installed on the base 10 such that the distance between the pair of handrails 13E in the second state is such that the user's sides are slightly wider. For example, it is preferable that the distance between the pair of handrails 13E in the second state is about 550 mm. In the second state, the distance between the pair of handrails 13E is set so that the user's sides are slightly apart, allowing the user to exert force with both arms when standing up, compared to when standing up with their arms close to their sides.

[0157] For example, one of the two handrails 13E can be configured to extend along the longitudinal direction of the base 10, while the other handrail 13E extends along the short direction of the base 10 (see Figure 35). In other words, the two handrails 13E can extend in different directions from each other. By configuring the two handrails 13E to extend in different directions from each other, for example, when a user moves from a bed to a bedside toilet, the user can use one handrail 13E to stand up from the bed and the other handrail 13E to stand up from the toilet.

[0158] Furthermore, by having the two handrails 13E extend in different directions from each other, the user can maintain a standing position while leaning on one handrail 13E (i.e., supporting their body weight) while holding onto the other handrail 13E. This makes it easier for the caregiver to help the user put on and take off their clothes.

[0159] Furthermore, handrail device 1E can be connected to other handrail devices, similar to handrail devices 1, 1B, and 1D described above.

[0160] In Embodiment 3, the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E are configured to be attached to the same base 10, but the configuration is not limited to this. The first support column 11E and the second support column 12E may be attached to different bases 10. Even if the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E are attached to different bases 10, the handrail device 1E can be connected to at least one other handrail device.

[0161] Furthermore, the first main body portion 111 of the first support column 11E and the second main body portion 121 of the second support column 12E may be configured to be adjustable in height (vertical length).

[0162] By making the heights of the first support column 11E and the second support column 12E adjustable, the height of the first support column 11E can be made lower than the height of the second support column 12E. For example, when getting up from a bed, the lower height of the first support column 11E can be used, and when starting to walk after standing up, the second support column 12E can be used to support walking from a standing position.

[0163] (summary) As described above, the handrail device (1) of the first embodiment comprises a support column (for example, a first support column 11) extending in the vertical direction, a handrail (13), and a mounting portion (14). The handrail (13) is supported by the support column in a direction that intersects the vertical direction. The mounting portion (14) is provided at the tip of the support column. The handrail (13) is attached to the mounting portion (14). The mounting portion (14) has a handrail holding portion (142) to which the handrail (13) is attached. The handrail holding portion (142) is configured to be rotatable with respect to the support column about an axis (C2) that intersects the axis (C1) of the handrail holding portion (142) in the vertical direction, and is configured so that the handrail (13) can move within the handrail holding portion (142) along the axis (C1) of the handrail holding portion (142).

[0164] With this configuration, it is not necessary to hold the handrail (13) up while passing through, and furthermore, the handrail (13) does not become an obstacle when passing through. Therefore, it is possible to pass through areas where the handrail (13) is installed smoothly.

[0165] The handrail device (1) in the second embodiment further comprises a second support portion (12) that extends vertically and is different from the first support portion (11) which serves as a support column, in the first embodiment. One end (first end 131) of the handrail (13) is inserted into the handrail holder (142). The second support portion (12) has a holder portion (for example, a second holder portion 122) provided at the tip of the second support portion (12) which is configured to be switchable between being connected to and disconnected from the other end (second end 132) of the handrail (13).

[0166] This configuration allows for switching between connecting and disconnecting the other end of the handrail (13) from the holding part, while also enabling smooth passage through areas where the handrail (13) is installed.

[0167] A third embodiment of the handrail device (1B, 1D) comprises a first support column (11B, 11D) and a second support column (12B, 12D) extending in the vertical direction, and a handrail (13B, 13D). The handrail (13B, 13D) extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction and is attached to the first support column (11B, 11D) and the second support column (12B, 12D). The handrail (13B, 13D) includes a first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) and a second handrail member (202, 202D). One end of the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) is attached to the first support column (11B, 11D). One end of the second handrail member (202, 202D) is attached to the second support column (12B, 12D). The other end of the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) and the other end of the second handrail member (202, 202D) are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) and the second handrail member (202, 202D) are disconnected, the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) is configured to rotate with the aforementioned end of the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) as a pivot point and an axis running vertically along that axis as the axis of rotation. When the first handrail member (201, 201C, 201D) and the second handrail member (202, 202D) are not connected, the second handrail member (202, 202D) is configured to be rotatable with the aforementioned end of the second handrail member (202, 202D) as the pivot point and an axis running vertically along that axis as the axis of rotation.

[0168] With this configuration, it is not necessary to hold up the handrails (13B, 13D) while passing through, and furthermore, the handrails (13B, 13D) do not become an obstacle when passing through. Therefore, it is possible to pass through areas where handrails (13B, 13D) are installed smoothly.

[0169] The handrail device (1E) of the fourth embodiment comprises vertically extending support columns (e.g., first support column 11E, second support column 12E), a handrail (13E), and handrail holders (e.g., first handrail holder 410, second handrail holder 420). The handrail holders are provided on the support columns and hold the handrail (13E) in a state where it extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. The handrail holders are configured to be rotatable with an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation.

[0170] With this configuration, it is not necessary to hold the handrail (13E) up while passing through, and furthermore, the handrail (13E) does not become an obstacle when passing through. Therefore, it is possible to pass through areas where the handrail (13E) is installed smoothly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 1,1B,1D,1E Handrail device 11,11B,11D,11E 1st support section (support section) 12,12B,12D,12E 2nd pillar part 13, 13B, 13D, 13E Handrails 14 Mounting part 112 1st holding part 122,122A 2nd holding part 131 First end (one end) 132, 132A Second end (other end) 142 Handrail support 201, 201C, 201D First handrail member 202,202D Second handrail member 410 First handrail support section (handrail support section) 420 Second handrail support section (handrail support section) C1,C2 axis

Claims

1. A support column extending in the vertical direction, It comprises a handrail extending in a direction that intersects with the aforementioned vertical direction, The handrail is attached to the support column so as to be rotatable with respect to the axis along the vertical direction. Handrail device.

2. A second support portion, which extends in the vertical direction and is different from the first support portion, The system further comprises a second handrail member, which extends in the aforementioned intersecting direction and is attached to the second support column, and is separate from the first handrail member that serves as the handrail, One end of the first handrail member is attached to the first support column. One end of the second handrail member is attached to the second support column. The other end of the first handrail member and the other end of the second handrail member are configured to be switchable between connected and disconnected. When the first handrail member and the second handrail member are not connected, the first handrail member is configured to be rotatable with one end of the first handrail member as a pivot point and an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation, and the second handrail member is configured to be rotatable with one end of the second handrail member as a pivot point and an axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. The handrail device according to claim 1.

3. The support column is further provided with a handrail holding portion that holds the handrail in a state that extends in a direction intersecting the vertical direction, The handrail holder is configured to be rotatable with the axis along the vertical direction as the axis of rotation. The handrail device according to claim 1.

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