Freestanding handrail

Abstract

To provide a freestanding handrail with a structure suitable for curved staircases. [Solution] A self-supporting handrail 1 installed on a curved staircase 100 comprises a first base 11, a second base 12, a first support column 21 fixed to the first base 11, a second support column 22 fixed to the second base 12, an intermediate handrail section 50 fixed to the upper end of the first support column 21, and a handrail bar located between the first support column 21 and the second support column 22, which can change direction relative to the intermediate handrail section 50.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a free-standing handrail.

Background Art

[0002] Motion assisting devices for assisting the movements of users such as the elderly or care recipients have been proposed. For example, as a motion assisting device, a free-standing handrail is known which can be installed on stairs without handrails to allow a user to walk on the stairs with peace of mind (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This type of free-standing handrail includes, for example, a plurality of bases installed on different treads of the stairs, support posts erected on each of the bases, and a handrail bar spanned between two of the support posts.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the structure of the conventional free-standing handrail is not suitable for curved stairs such as winding stairs or switchback stairs.

[0005] Specifically, in order to install the handrail at a corner portion of a curved stair, it is necessary to connect three or more handrail bars as an example. At this time, from the viewpoint of ease of installation, the length of the handrail bar of the free-standing handrail is preferably short, but if the length of the handrail bar is too short, it becomes difficult for the user to grip the handrail bar, and the user cannot walk on the curved stair safely.

[0006] Furthermore, with conventional freestanding handrails, when a base plate with a support column is installed on the tread of a curved staircase corner, the safest way for a user walking up the stairs is to step on the base plate and use the handrail. However, when the user steps on the base plate at a corner, what is directly beside their body is not the handrail, but rather a joint component installed at the top of the support column (for example, a joint component that connects the handrails). For this reason, with the structure of conventional freestanding handrails, it is difficult for users to walk safely up curved stairs. Also, if the part where the user places their hand is a joint component, there is a risk that the skin of the palm of the hand may get caught in the groove of the joint component.

[0007] This invention was made to solve these problems and aims to provide a freestanding handrail with a structure suitable for curved staircases. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] To achieve the above objective, one embodiment of the self-supporting handrail according to the present invention is a self-supporting handrail installed on a curved staircase, comprising: a first base; a second base; a first support column fixed to the first base; a second support column fixed to the second base; an intermediate handrail section fixed to the upper end of the first support column; and a handrail bar located between the first support column and the second support column, which can change direction relative to the intermediate handrail section. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, a self-supporting handrail with a structure suitable for curved staircases can be realized. For example, a self-supporting handrail that can achieve both ease of installation on curved staircases and safety for walking can be realized. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a freestanding handrail according to Embodiment 1 installed on a staircase. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a freestanding handrail according to Embodiment 1 installed on a staircase. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view of the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1 installed on a staircase. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a top view of the first base of the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first base of the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view showing the area around the upper end of the first support column in the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an enlarged perspective view showing the area around the upper end of the first support column in the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is an enlarged perspective view showing the area around the upper end of the first support column in the self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a top view of a self-supporting handrail according to Embodiment 2 installed on a staircase. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] The embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present invention. Therefore, the numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, and connection configurations shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. Accordingly, among the components in the following embodiments, those components that are not described in the independent claim representing the highest-level concept of the present invention will be described as optional components.

[0012] Please note that each figure is a schematic diagram and not necessarily a strictly accurate representation. Therefore, the scale and other aspects may not necessarily be consistent across all figures. In addition, the same reference numerals are used for substantially identical components in each figure, and redundant explanations are omitted or simplified. Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "up" and "down" do not necessarily refer to the upward direction (vertically upward) and the downward direction (vertically downward) in absolute spatial perception.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) The self-supporting handrail 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 8. FIG. 1 to FIG. 3 are views showing the self-supporting handrail 1 according to Embodiment 1 installed on a staircase 100. FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 are perspective views thereof, and FIG. 3 is a top view thereof. FIG. 4 is a top view of the first base 11 in the self-supporting handrail 1, and FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the first base 11. FIG. 6 to FIG. 8 are enlarged perspective views showing the vicinity of the upper end portion of the first post 21 in the self-supporting handrail 1.

[0014] The self-supporting handrail 1 according to the present embodiment is an example of a movement assisting device that assists the movement of a user. The movement of the user is, for example, walking, standing up from a sitting state, or sitting down from a standing state. In addition, the user is mainly an elderly person, a person requiring long-term care, a person requiring support, or a person with a disability, etc.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 3, the self-supporting handrail 1 is a handrail unit installed on the staircase 100. The self-supporting handrail 1 is a handrail device that can be placed independently without being fixed to a building such as a staircase, a wall or a floor, or the ground.

[0016] The self-supporting handrail 1 can be additionally installed after the staircase 100 is installed as needed. Therefore, when the self-supporting handrail 1 is no longer needed, the self-supporting handrail 1 can be removed. By installing the self-supporting handrail 1 on the staircase 100, the user can walk on the staircase with peace of mind. That is, the user can go up and down the staircase 100 using the self-supporting handrail 1. Note that there is no permanent handrail on the staircase 100, but a permanent handrail may be present on the staircase 100.

[0017] In the present embodiment, the staircase 100 is a curved staircase having a bent portion. Specifically, the staircase 100 is a winding staircase. The staircase 100 shown in Figure 1 is a 90-degree bent winding staircase. The staircase 100 may be an outdoor staircase installed outdoors, or may be an indoor staircase installed indoors. When the staircase 100 is an outdoor staircase, the staircase 100 is, for example, an approach staircase installed between the entrance of a building and a road or the like.

[0018] Note that the staircase 100 may be a winding staircase that bends at an angle other than 90 degrees. Further, the staircase 100 is not limited to a winding staircase. For example, the staircase 100 which is a curved staircase may be a 180-degree bent (90 degrees × 2 turns) switchback staircase or the like.

[0019] The staircase 100 which is a curved staircase has a corner portion 110 constituting a corner staircase, and a first straight portion 120 and a second straight portion 130 constituting a straight staircase. The corner portion 110 is located between the first straight portion 120 and the second straight portion 130. That is, the corner portion 110 is sandwiched between the first straight portion 120 and the second straight portion 130. The first straight portion 120 is located on the lower side of the corner portion 110, and the second straight portion 130 is located on the upper side of the corner portion 110.

[0020] The staircase 100 has a plurality of treads 200 serving as step surfaces. That is, the plurality of treads 200 are surfaces having different heights from each other. The tread 200 is a horizontal surface on which a user places their foot when the user walks on the staircase 100. Each of the plurality of treads 200 extends in a direction orthogonal to the traveling direction of the user walking on the staircase 100. The pedestal 10 of the self-supporting handrail 1 is installed on the tread 200. That is, the tread 200 is an installation surface on which the pedestal 10 is installed.

[0021] A corner tread 210 is provided as a tread 200 at the corner section 110. The corner tread 210 has a tapered surface 211 that narrows towards the inside of the corner section 110. In other words, the area of ​​the tapered surface 211 decreases as it moves towards the inside of the corner section 110 (i.e., towards the center of the spiral staircase). Specifically, the width of the tapered surface 211 (the length of the tread 200 in the shorter direction) gradually decreases as it moves towards the inside of the corner section 110. The plan view shape of the tapered surface 211 is, for example, a triangle, but is not limited to this. The plan view shape of the tapered surface 211 may be a trapezoid or the like.

[0022] Multiple corner treads 210 are provided in the corner section 110. In this embodiment, three consecutive corner treads 210 are provided in the corner section 110 at different heights. Each of the three corner treads 210 has a tapered surface 211. In this embodiment, the angle (corner angle) between the two sides that make up the tapered surface 211 of the three corner treads 210 is 30 degrees in all cases. Note that the number of corner treads 210 provided in the corner section 110 is not limited to three. There may be one, two, or four corner treads 210. In this case, the corner angles of the multiple corner treads 210 may be the same or different.

[0023] The first straight section 120 is provided with multiple straight treads 220 as the treads 200. The second straight section 130 is provided with multiple straight treads 230 as the treads 200. Both the straight treads 220 and 230 are rectangular in shape. The width of the straight treads 220 and 230 in the longitudinal direction is approximately the same as the width of the stairs 100, for example, 50 cm to 150 cm. The depth (tread width) of the straight treads 220 and 230 in the transverse direction is approximately 20 cm to 60 cm, for example.

[0024] In this embodiment, the first straight section 120 is provided with two straight treads 220. The second straight section 130 is also provided with two straight treads 230. Note that the number of straight treads 220 and 230 is not limited to two. The number of straight treads 220 and 230 may be one or three or more. Also, the number of straight treads 220 and 230 may be the same or different.

[0025] A freestanding handrail 1 is installed on the staircase 100 configured in this way. The freestanding handrail 1 comprises a plurality of bases 10, a plurality of support columns 20, handrail bars 30, 41 and 42, and an intermediate handrail section 50. In this embodiment, one support column 20 is fixed to each base 10.

[0026] The base 10 is a base for a freestanding handrail. The base 10 is installed on the tread 200 of the stairs 100. When a user walks using the freestanding handrail 1, the user will pass over the base 10 installed on the tread 200. At this time, the user may or may not step on the base 10 with their feet. The base 10 is also the base to which the support column 20 is attached. In other words, the base 10 supports the support column 20.

[0027] In this embodiment, each of the multiple bases 10 is elongated and extends in the longitudinal direction of the tread 200. For example, the maximum length of the base 10 in the longitudinal direction is 60 cm to 100 cm (80 cm in this embodiment), and the maximum length of the base 10 in the short direction is 20 cm to 60 cm (30 cm in this embodiment). The base 10 is a base plate with a wide base. The central part of the base 10 in the longitudinal direction becomes a passageway when the user walks. Therefore, the area of ​​the top view shape of the base 10 should be at least half the area of ​​the tread 200 on which the base 10 is installed. In this case, the length of the base 10 in the longitudinal direction should be at least half the length of the tread 200 in the longitudinal direction. Also, the length of the base 10 in the short direction should be at least half the length of the tread 200 in the short direction.

[0028] Multiple bases 10 are installed on different treads 200 of the stairs 100. In this embodiment, the freestanding handrail 1 has three bases 10, and the three bases 10 are installed on different treads 200. Specifically, the freestanding handrail 1 has three bases 10: a first base 11, a second base 12, and a third base 13.

[0029] The first base 11 is installed on the corner tread 210 of the corner section 110. Specifically, the first base 11 is installed on the middle corner tread 210 of the three consecutive corner treads 210.

[0030] Furthermore, the second base 12 is installed on the straight tread 220 of the first straight section 120, and the third base 13 is installed on the straight tread 230 of the second straight section 130. The second base 12 is installed on the straight tread 220, which is separated from the corner tread 210 on which the first base 11 is installed by two treads 200. The third base 13 is installed on the straight tread 230, which is separated from the corner tread 210 on which the first base 11 is installed by two treads 200.

[0031] As shown in Figure 4, the first base 11 installed on the corner tread 210 has tapered portions 11a and 11b that taper towards the longitudinal end of the first base 11. The tapered portion 11b is located on the opposite side of the first base 11 from the tapered portion 11a in the longitudinal direction of the first base 11. In other words, the tapered portion 11a (first tapered portion) is provided on one side of the first base 11 in the longitudinal direction, and the tapered portion 11b (second tapered portion) is provided on the other side of the first base 11 in the longitudinal direction.

[0032] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the tapered portion 11a (first tapered portion) of the first base 11 tapers toward the inside of the corner portion 110 on which the first base 11 is installed (i.e., toward the center of the spiral staircase). In this embodiment, the tapered portion 11a tapers toward the tip of the tapered surface 211 of the corner tread 210. In other words, when viewed from above, the area of ​​the tapered portion 11a decreases toward the inside of the corner portion 110. Specifically, the width of the tapered portion 11a (the length of the first base 11 in the shorter direction) gradually decreases toward the inside of the corner portion 110.

[0033] On the other hand, the tapered portion 11b (second tapered portion) of the first base 11 tapers outward toward the corner portion 110 on which the first base 11 is installed. In this embodiment, the tapered portion 11b tapers toward the portion of the corner tread 210 opposite to the tapered surface 211. In other words, when viewed from above, the area of ​​the tapered portion 11b decreases toward the outside of the corner portion 110. Specifically, the width of the tapered portion 11b (length in the short direction of the first base 11) gradually decreases toward the outside of the corner portion 110. Note that the plan view shape of the tapered portion 11a and the plan view shape of the tapered portion 11b are the same shape and the same size, but are not limited to this.

[0034] As shown in Figure 4, in this embodiment, the top view shape of the first base 11 is an elongated octagon (long octagon). Specifically, the elongated octagon constituting the first base 11 consists of an elongated rectangle and a pair of trapezoids that sandwich the rectangle from the longitudinal direction. In the first base 11, the tapered portion 11a is one of the pair of trapezoids in the elongated octagon constituting the first base 11, and the tapered portion 11b is the other of the pair of trapezoids in the elongated octagon constituting the first base 11. In this embodiment, the trapezoids constituting the tapered portions 11a and 11b are symmetrical, but are not limited to this. That is, the two inclination angles θ1 of the tapered portion 11a may be different from each other. Also, the two inclination angles θ2 of the tapered portion 11b may be different from each other. In this case, one of the two inclination angles θ1 may be 0 degrees (i.e., one of the two base angles of the trapezoid may be 90 degrees). Similarly, one of the two inclination angles θ2 may be 0 degrees.

[0035] When the corner angle of the corner tread 210 on which the first base 11 is installed is 30 degrees, the inclination angle θ1 of the tapered portion 11a in the octagonal first base 11 is preferably between 10 degrees and 30 degrees, as shown in Figure 4. In this embodiment, the inclination angle θ1 of the tapered portion 11a is the same as half the corner angle of the corner tread 210, which is 15 degrees. The inclination angle θ1 of the tapered portion 11a is the angle between the longitudinal direction of the first base 11 and the inclined side of the tapered portion 11a.

[0036] The inclination angle θ2 of the tapered portion 11b is also between 10 degrees and 30 degrees. The inclination angle θ2 of the tapered portion 11b is the angle between the longitudinal direction of the first base 11 and the inclined side of the tapered portion 11b. In this embodiment, the inclination angle θ2 of the tapered portion 11b is the same as the inclination angle θ1 of the tapered portion 11a. That is, θ2 = θ1 = 15°. However, the inclination angle θ2 of the tapered portion 11b may be different from the inclination angle θ1 of the tapered portion 11a.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, the first base 11 has a main plate 10a, an edge cover 10b, and a surface sheet 10c.

[0038] The main plate 10a constitutes the body of the first base 11. The main plate 10a has the required weight so that the first base 11 can be stably installed on the tread surface 200 as the base of the self-supporting handrail 1. For example, the main plate 10a may be a metal plate made of a metal material. As an example, the main plate 10a is made of a metal material mainly composed of iron. For example, the main plate 10a is a steel plate made of iron or stainless steel. However, the main component of the metal material that makes up the main plate 10a is not limited to iron. For example, the main component of the metal material that makes up the main plate 10a may be titanium, copper, or lead. Also, the main plate 10a is a flat plate of a constant thickness. The thickness of the main plate 10a is, for example, 3 mm to 20 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0039] The main plate 10a is provided with through holes 10a1. The through holes 10a1 are screw holes into which screws are threaded, or bolt holes into which bolts are inserted. The first support column 21 can be fixed to the first base 11 through these through holes 10a1. In this embodiment, the main plate 10a is provided with a plurality of through holes 10a1.

[0040] The edge cover 10b is a frame-shaped body attached along the outer peripheral edge of the main plate 10a. In other words, the edge cover 10b is an annular member having an opening 10b1. The edge cover 10b may be a single integrally molded part or may be divided into multiple parts. In this embodiment, the edge cover 10b is divided into multiple parts. In other words, the edge cover 10b is composed of multiple parts. Furthermore, the edge cover 10b is not limited to a closed annular shape, but may also have an annular shape that is partially interrupted by openings at one or more locations in the annular shape. The edge cover 10b is made of, for example, a resin material. As an example, the edge cover 10b is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but is not limited to this. The edge cover 10b may also be made of a rubber material having rubber elasticity.

[0041] The inner circumferential surface of the edge cover 10b is provided with a fitting portion into which the outer circumferential end of the main plate 10a is fitted from the side. When the main plate 10a is fitted into the fitting portion of the edge cover 10b, it is raised above the tread surface 200. In other words, the edge cover 10b creates a gap between the main plate 10a and the tread surface 200. Therefore, the edge cover 10b becomes the leg of the first base 11. In this way, only the edge cover 10b is in contact with the tread surface 200, and the main plate 10a is not in contact with the tread surface 200. However, the main plate 10a may also be in contact with the tread surface 200.

[0042] The surface sheet 10c is a sheet material laid on the upper surface of the main plate 10a. The surface sheet 10c is stepped on by the user when the user walks up the stairs 100 using the freestanding handrail 1. Therefore, it is preferable that the surface of the surface sheet 10c has an anti-slip structure such as an uneven shape. The surface sheet 10c may be a metal sheet, a resin sheet, a carpet, or a mat.

[0043] An opening 10c1 is provided in the surface sheet 10c. A first support column 21 is positioned in the opening 10c1. The first support column 21 is positioned in this opening 10c1 and fixed to the main plate 10a. The shape of the opening 10c1 corresponds to the shape of the base portion of the first support column 21. In this embodiment, the shape of the opening 10c1 is substantially rectangular.

[0044] The surface sheet 10c is provided with a plurality of openings 10c1. The plurality of openings 10c1 are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the surface sheet 10c. In this embodiment, the surface sheet 10c is provided with five openings 10c1. Of the five openings 10c1, the openings 10c1 provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the surface sheet 10c are notches formed by cutting out a part of the surface sheet 10c. As shown in Figures 1 to 3, in this embodiment, the first support column 21 is positioned in the innermost opening 10c1 at the corner portion 110, i.e., in the tapered portion 11a. The position of the first support column 21 in one of the five openings 10c1 can be appropriately selected according to the position of the second support column 22 erected on the second base 12 and the position of the third support column 23 erected on the third base 13, as well as according to the installation angle of the first base 11.

[0045] The first base 11 may also have a reinforcing plate laminated on the main plate 10a. This allows the first base 11 to be stably placed on the tread 200 by its own weight. If the main plate 10a is made of steel, a stainless steel plate can be used as the reinforcing plate. The first base 11 may also have an adjuster mechanism that allows the height from the tread 200 to be adjusted.

[0046] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the plan view shapes of the second base 12 and the third base 13 are rectangular. Specifically, the plan view shapes of the second base 12 and the third base 13 are rectangular.

[0047] In this embodiment, the depth of the second base 12 and the depth of the third base 13 are different. Specifically, the depth of the second base 12 is shorter than the depth of the third base 13. However, the depth of the second base 12 may be longer than the depth of the third base 13, or it may be the same as the depth of the third base 13.

[0048] Furthermore, the width of the second base 12 and the width of the third base 13 are the same, but the width of the second base 12 and the width of the third base 13 may be different. In other words, the width of the second base 12 may be longer than the width of the third base 13, or shorter than the width of the third base 13. Moreover, the width of the second base 12 and the width of the third base 13 are the same as the width of the first base 11, but are not limited to this. The width of the second base 12 and the width of the third base 13 may be different from the width of the first base 11. In other words, the width of the second base 12 and the width of the third base 13 may be longer than the width of the first base 11, or shorter than the width of the first base 11. Thus, the multiple bases 10 installed on the tread surface 200 may all have the same length in the longitudinal direction, or some of the multiple bases 10 may have bases 10 with different lengths in the longitudinal direction.

[0049] Furthermore, the plan view shapes of the second base 12 and the third base 13 may be squares instead of rectangles. Also, the plan view shapes of the second base 12 and the third base 13 may be octagonal, similar to the first base 11.

[0050] The second base 12 and the third base 13, like the first base 11, have a main plate, an edge cover, and a surface sheet. The main plate, edge cover, and surface sheet in the second base 12 and the third base 13 differ only in their planar shape from the main plate 10a, edge cover 10b, and surface sheet 10c in the first base 11.

[0051] The support column 20 is fixed to the base 10. Specifically, the support column 20 is fixed to the base 10 in an upright position. The support column 20 is attached to each of the multiple bases 10. Therefore, the self-supporting handrail 1 has multiple support columns 20. In this embodiment, the self-supporting handrail 1 has three support columns 20. Specifically, the self-supporting handrail 1 has three support columns 20: a first support column 21, a second support column 22, and a third support column 23. The first support column 21 is an intermediate support column located between the second support column 22 and the third support column 23. The first support column 21 is erected on the first base 11, the second support column 22 is erected on the second base 12, and the third support column 23 is erected on the third base 13. The first base 11 on which the first support column 21 is erected is an intermediate base.

[0052] Each support column 20 may also have a height adjustment mechanism that allows for adjustment of the height (length) of the support column 20. This allows for adjustment of the height of the support column 20.

[0053] The support column 20 supports the handrail 30. In this embodiment, the freestanding handrail 1 is equipped with a plurality of handrails 30. Specifically, the freestanding handrail 1 is equipped with a first handrail 31 and a second handrail 32 as a plurality of handrails 30. The first support column 21, the second support column 22, and the third support column 23 support the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. In addition, the second support column 22 also supports a handrail 41, and the third support column 23 also supports a handrail 42.

[0054] The handrails 30 (first handrail 31, second handrail 32), 41 and 42 are handrails that the user grasps with their hands when walking up the stairs 100 using the freestanding handrail 1.

[0055] The handrail bars 30 (first handrail bar 31, second handrail bar 32) are rod-shaped handrails that extend in a straight line. On the other hand, the handrail bars 41 and 42 are curved handrails that are formed in a curved shape.

[0056] The handrails 30 (first handrail 31, second handrail 32) are located between the two support posts 20 and are supported by being stretched across the two support posts 20. Specifically, the first handrail 31 is located between the first support post 21 and the second support post 22 and is stretched across the first support post 21 and the second support post 22. The second handrail 32 is located between the first support post 21 and the third support post 23 and is stretched across the first support post 21 and the third support post 23.

[0057] The first handrail 31 extends along the linear direction (walking direction) of the first straight section 120 of the stairs 100. As shown in Figure 3, in a top view, the first handrail 31 spans both the first straight section 120 and the corner section 110. On the other hand, the second handrail 32 extends along the linear direction (walking direction) of the second straight section 130 of the stairs 100. In a top view, the second handrail 32 spans both the second straight section 130 and the corner section 110. Therefore, the extending direction of the first handrail 31 and the extending direction of the second handrail 32 are perpendicular to each other.

[0058] Each of the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 is connected to the first support column 21. Specifically, one end of the first handrail 31 is connected to the first support column 21 via a first connecting section 61 and an intermediate handrail section 50, and one end of the second handrail 32 is connected to the first support column 21 via a second connecting section 62 and an intermediate handrail section 50.

[0059] Furthermore, the first handrail 31 is connected to the second support column 22. Specifically, the other end of the first handrail 31 is connected to the second support column 22 via the third connecting part 63 and the handrail 41.

[0060] Furthermore, the second handrail 32 is connected to the third support column 23. Specifically, the other end of the second handrail 32 is connected to the third support column 23 via the fourth connecting part 64 and the handrail 42.

[0061] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the first handrail 31 has a handrail portion 31a and a pair of connecting portions 31b. The second handrail 32 has a handrail portion 32a and a pair of connecting portions 32b.

[0062] The handrail portion 31a constitutes the main body of the first handrail 31, and the handrail portion 32a constitutes the main body of the second handrail 32. The handrail portions 31a and 32a are the parts that the user grips and are formed in the shape of a straight rod with a circular outer surface in cross-section. The shape of the handrail portions 31a and 32a is not limited to this, and for example, a part of them may be partially curved. As an example, the handrail portions 31a and 32a include rod-shaped parts such as metal pipes or metal columns made of a metal material such as aluminum. The handrail portions 31a and 32a may be made of materials other than metal. For example, the handrail portions 31a and 32a may be made of resin material. Each of the handrail portions 31a and 32a may be made of one rod-shaped part or multiple rod-shaped parts. For example, if each of the handrail portions 31a and 32a is an extendable handrail configured to be extendable, each of the handrail portions 31a and 32a may be made of multiple rod-shaped parts. In this case, for example, the structure would be such that one pipe is inserted into the other of two rod-shaped pipes.

[0063] In the first handrail 31, the pair of connecting parts 31b are located at the ends of the first handrail 31 and are attached to both ends of the handrail section 31a in the longitudinal direction. That is, one of the pair of connecting parts 31b is attached to one end of the handrail section 31a in the longitudinal direction, and the other of the pair of connecting parts 31b is attached to the other end of the handrail section 31a in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, one of the pair of connecting parts 31b is connected to the first connecting part 61, and the other of the pair of connecting parts 31b is connected to the third connecting part 63.

[0064] Furthermore, in the second handrail 32, the pair of connecting parts 32b are located at the ends of the second handrail 32 and are attached to both ends of the handrail section 32a in the longitudinal direction. That is, one of the pair of connecting parts 32b is attached to one end of the handrail section 32a in the longitudinal direction, and the other of the pair of connecting parts 32b is attached to the other end of the handrail section 32a in the longitudinal direction. Also, one of the pair of connecting parts 32b is connected to the second connecting part 62, and the other of the pair of connecting parts 32b is connected to the fourth connecting part 64.

[0065] The connecting portion 31b of the first handrail 31 and the connecting portion 32b of the second handrail 32 are joint parts and are made of metal or resin material. The first connecting portion 61, the second connecting portion 62, the third connecting portion 63, and the fourth connecting portion 64 are also joint parts and are made of metal or resin material.

[0066] As shown in Figures 6 to 8, an intermediate handrail section 50 is attached to the first support column 21. The intermediate handrail section 50 is fixed to the upper end of the first support column 21. The intermediate handrail section 50 is fixed to the first support column 21 so as not to move relative to the first support column 21. Specifically, a mounting section 51 is provided in the center of the longitudinal direction of the intermediate handrail section 50, and the mounting section 51 is fixed to the upper end of the first support column 21 with a screw. In a front view, the intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 form a T shape. In this embodiment, the intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 are a single component that is integrally constructed, but this is not limited to this. In other words, the intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 may be separate components.

[0067] The intermediate handrail section 50 is the part that the user grips and, like the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32, has a handrail function. In this embodiment, the intermediate handrail section 50 is a straight rod-shaped handrail with a circular cross-section on its outer surface, but is not limited to this. The intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 are made of a metal pipe or metal column made of a metal material such as aluminum. The intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 may be made of a resin material. Also, if the intermediate handrail section 50 and the mounting section 51 are separate parts, they may be made of different materials.

[0068] The color of the intermediate handrail section 50 is preferably the same as the color of at least one of the first handrail pole 31 and the second handrail pole 32. Specifically, the color of the intermediate handrail section 50 may be the same as the color of the handrail section 31a of the first handrail pole 31, or the same as the color of the handrail section 32a of the second handrail pole 32. This makes the intermediate handrail section 50 visually recognizable to the user as a handrail portion that is a gripping part, just like the first handrail pole 31 and the second handrail pole 32, so that the user can grip the intermediate handrail section 50 with confidence. For example, the color of the intermediate handrail section 50 and the color of at least one of the first handrail pole 31 and the second handrail pole 32 may be a black or brown color, but is not limited to these.

[0069] In this embodiment, the color of the intermediate handrail section 50 is the same as the color of at least one of the first handrail pole 31 and the second handrail pole 32. Specifically, the color of the intermediate handrail section 50, the color of the handrail portion 31a of the first handrail pole 31, and the color of the handrail portion 32a of the second handrail pole 32 are all the same.

[0070] Furthermore, the surface material of the intermediate handrail section 50 is preferably similar to the surface material of at least one of the first handrails 31 and the second handrail 32. Specifically, the surface material of the intermediate handrail section 50 may be similar to the surface material of the handrail section 31a of the first handrail 31, or it may be similar to the surface material of the handrail section 32a of the second handrail 32. This makes the intermediate handrail section 50 more easily recognizable to the user tactilely (i.e., by touch) as a handrail portion that is a gripping part, just like the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32, so that the user can grip the intermediate handrail section 50 with confidence.

[0071] In this embodiment, the material of the surface of the intermediate handrail section 50 is the same as the material of the surface of at least one of the first handrail pole 31 and the second handrail pole 32. Specifically, the material of the surface of the intermediate handrail section 50 is the same as the material of the surface of the handrail section 31a of the first handrail pole 31 and the material of the surface of the handrail section 32a of the second handrail pole 32.

[0072] The color or surface material of the intermediate handrail section 50 may differ from the color or surface material of the first handrail 31, and may also differ from the color or surface material of the second handrail 32.

[0073] The intermediate handrail section 50 is an intermediate handrail located between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. The first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 are connected via the intermediate handrail section 50. In other words, the intermediate handrail section 50 not only has a handrail function but also a connecting function that links the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. The first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 are connected via the intermediate handrail section 50 so as to form a right angle at the corner section 110 of the stairs 100.

[0074] In this embodiment, the first handrail 31 and the intermediate handrail section 50 are connected via a first connecting section 61. The second handrail 32 and the intermediate handrail section 50 are connected via a second connecting section 62. The first connecting section 61 is connected to one end of the intermediate handrail section 50 in the longitudinal direction, and the second connecting section 62 is connected to the other end of the intermediate handrail section 50 in the longitudinal direction.

[0075] Specifically, a connecting portion 52 is provided at one end of the intermediate handrail section 50 in the longitudinal direction, and the first handrail rod 31 and the intermediate handrail section 50 are connected by the connection of the first connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 52. In addition, a connecting portion 53 is provided at the other end of the intermediate handrail section 50 in the longitudinal direction, and the second handrail rod 32 and the intermediate handrail section 50 are connected by the connection of the second connecting portion 62 and the connecting portion 53. Note that the connecting portions 52 and 53 may be integrally constructed with the intermediate handrail section 50 or may be constructed as separate parts. Furthermore, in order to make the user aware that the connecting portions 52 and 53 are not part of the handrail, it is preferable that the color and surface material of the connecting portions 52 and 53 be different from the color and surface material of the intermediate handrail section 50.

[0076] The intermediate handrail section 50 is a shorter handrail section than the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. In other words, the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 are longer than the intermediate handrail section 50. If the intermediate handrail section 50 is too short, the user will not be able to grip it, so considering the width of an adult's hand, the length of the intermediate handrail section 50 should be at least 80 mm, more preferably 100 mm or more.

[0077] Furthermore, the intermediate handrail section 50, which is fixed to the first support column 21, rotatably supports the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. Specifically, the intermediate handrail section 50 supports the first handrail 31 via the first connecting section 61 and supports the second handrail 32 via the second connecting section 62.

[0078] The first connecting portion 61 is rotatably connected to the intermediate handrail portion 50. Specifically, the first connecting portion 61 is connected to a connecting portion 52 provided on the intermediate handrail portion 50 by a bolt 61a, and can rotate around the axis of rotation of the bolt 61a. In other words, a hinge is formed between the first connecting portion 61 and the connecting portion 52 of the intermediate handrail portion 50, and by rotating the first connecting portion 61 relative to the intermediate handrail portion 50, the angle between the longitudinal direction of the first handrail rod 31 connected to the first connecting portion 61 and the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 can be adjusted. In other words, the first handrail rod 31 can be rotated vertically around the axis of rotation of the bolt 61a.

[0079] Furthermore, the first handrail 31 and the first connecting portion 61 are rotatably connected to each other. Specifically, the connecting portion 31b of the first handrail 31 and the first connecting portion 61 are connected by a bolt 61b, and the first handrail 31 and the first connecting portion 61 can rotate around the axis of rotation of the bolt 61b. Therefore, a hinge is formed between the connecting portion 31b of the first handrail 31 and the first connecting portion 61, and the first handrail 31 can be rotated horizontally around the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 in a plane that includes the longitudinal direction of the first handrail 31. In other words, the first handrail 31 can be rotated around the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 as the axis of rotation.

[0080] Thus, the first handrail 31 is rotatable relative to the first support column 21 by the first connecting portion 61 and the intermediate handrail portion 50. Specifically, as described above, the first handrail 31 can rotate such that the angle between the longitudinal direction of the first handrail 31 and the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 is changed, and it can also rotate around the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 as the axis of rotation. Therefore, the first handrail 31 can change its orientation relative to the first support column 21 and the intermediate handrail portion 50 fixed to the first support column 21. Specifically, the first handrail 31 can freely change its orientation so as to draw a cone with the first support column 21 and the intermediate handrail portion 50 as its vertices.

[0081] Furthermore, the second connecting portion 62 is rotatably connected to the intermediate handrail portion 50, similar to the first connecting portion 61. Specifically, the second connecting portion 62 is connected to a connecting portion 53 provided on the intermediate handrail portion 50 by a bolt 62a, and can rotate around the axis of the bolt 62a as the center of rotation. In other words, a hinge is formed between the second connecting portion 62 and the connecting portion 53 of the intermediate handrail portion 50, and by rotating the second connecting portion 62 relative to the intermediate handrail portion 50, the angle between the longitudinal direction of the second handrail rod 32 connected to the second connecting portion 62 and the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 can be adjusted. In other words, the second handrail rod 32 can be rotated vertically around the axis of rotation of the bolt 62a.

[0082] Furthermore, the second handrail 32 and the second connecting portion 62 are rotatably connected to each other. Specifically, the connecting portion 32b of the second handrail 32 and the second connecting portion 62 are connected by a bolt 62b, and the second handrail 32 and the second connecting portion 62 can rotate around the axis of rotation of the bolt 62b. Therefore, a hinge is formed between the connecting portion 32b of the second handrail 32 and the second connecting portion 62, and the second handrail 32 can be rotated horizontally around the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 in a plane that includes the longitudinal direction of the second handrail 32. In other words, the second handrail 32 can be rotated around the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 as the axis of rotation.

[0083] Thus, the second handrail 32 is rotatable relative to the first support column 21 by the second connecting portion 62 and the intermediate handrail portion 50. Specifically, as described above, the second handrail 32 can rotate such that the angle between the longitudinal direction of the second handrail 32 and the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 is changed, and it can also rotate with the longitudinal direction of the first support column 21 as the axis of rotation. Therefore, the second handrail 32 can change its orientation relative to the first support column 21 and the intermediate handrail portion 50 fixed to the first support column 21, just like the first handrail 31. Specifically, the second handrail 32 can freely change its orientation so as to draw a cone with the first support column 21 and the intermediate handrail portion 50 as its vertices.

[0084] Furthermore, the first handrail 31 is connected to the handrail 41 via a third connecting portion 63. The third connecting portion 63 is fixed to the handrail 41 which is attached to the second support column 22. In this embodiment, the first handrail 31 is rotatably connected to the third connecting portion 63. Although not shown in detail, the connecting portion 31b of the first handrail 31 and the third connecting portion 63 are connected by a bolt, and the first handrail 31 can rotate around the axis of rotation of the bolt. In other words, a hinge is formed between the connecting portion 31b of the first handrail 31 and the third connecting portion 63, and by rotating the first handrail 31 relative to the third connecting portion 63, the angle between the longitudinal direction of the first handrail 31 and the longitudinal direction of the second support column 22 can be adjusted. In other words, the first handrail 31 can be rotated vertically around the axis of rotation of the bolt that connects the first handrail 31 and the third connecting portion 63. Furthermore, the first handrail 31 may be configured to rotate around the longitudinal direction of the second support column 22.

[0085] Thus, the first handrail 31 is not only rotatable relative to the first support column 21, but also rotatable relative to the second support column 22.

[0086] Furthermore, the second handrail 32 is connected to the handrail 42 via a fourth connecting portion 64. The fourth connecting portion 64 is fixed to the handrail 42 which is attached to the third support column 23. In this embodiment, the second handrail 32 is rotatably connected to the fourth connecting portion 64. Although not shown in detail, the connecting portion 32b of the second handrail 32 and the fourth connecting portion 64 are connected by a bolt, and the second handrail 32 can rotate around the axis of rotation of the bolt. In other words, a hinge is formed between the connecting portion 32b of the second handrail 32 and the fourth connecting portion 64, and by rotating the second handrail 32 relative to the fourth connecting portion 64, the angle between the longitudinal direction of the second handrail 32 and the longitudinal direction of the third support column 23 can be adjusted. In other words, the second handrail 32 can be rotated vertically around the axis of rotation of the bolt that connects the second handrail 32 and the fourth connecting portion 64. Furthermore, the second handrail 32 may be configured to rotate around the longitudinal direction of the third support column 23.

[0087] Thus, the second handrail 32 is not only rotatable relative to the first support column 21, but also rotatable relative to the third support column 23.

[0088] As shown in Figures 1 to 3, the self-supporting handrail 1 configured as described above can be installed on a curved staircase 100. In this embodiment of the self-supporting handrail 1, the first handrail rod 31 and the second handrail rod 32 can freely change their orientation relative to the first support column 21 and the intermediate handrail section 50. Furthermore, the first handrail rod 31 can also change its orientation relative to the second support column 22, and the second handrail rod 32 can also change its orientation relative to the third support column 23.

[0089] As a result, when installing the freestanding handrail 1 on a curved staircase 100, when the first base 11 on which the first support column 21 is erected is installed on the corner tread 210 of the corner section 110 of the staircase 100, the orientation and inclination of the first handrail rod 31 and the second handrail rod 32 can be easily adjusted to match the orientation of the staircase 100 (the orientation of the first straight section 120 and the second straight section 130) and the inclination of the staircase 100 (the inclination of the first straight section 120 and the second straight section 130). Therefore, the freestanding handrail 1 can be easily installed on the staircase 100 in accordance with the orientation and inclination of the staircase 100.

[0090] Furthermore, the self-supporting handrail 1 according to this embodiment includes an intermediate handrail section 50 fixed to the upper end of the first support column 21.

[0091] This allows the user to grasp the intermediate handrail 50 when walking on the corner 110 of the stairs 100. Specifically, when the user walks on the corner 110, they will step on the first base 11 installed on the corner tread 210. When the user steps on the first base 110 at the corner 110, instead of a joint member, there will be an intermediate handrail 50 fixed to the first support column 11 erected on the first base 11 directly beside the user's body. As a result, the user can grasp the intermediate handrail 50 when walking on the corner 110, allowing the user to walk on the corner 110 safely. Furthermore, if a joint member were present where the user places their hand at the corner 110, there is a risk that the skin of the palm of the hand may get caught in the groove of the joint member. However, in this embodiment, since the intermediate handrail 50 is present where the user places their hand at the corner 110, the skin of the user's palm will not get caught in the groove of the joint member.

[0092] Furthermore, although an intermediate handrail section 50 is provided at the upper end of the first support column 21, the first handrail rod 31 and the second handrail rod 32 can change their orientation relative to the intermediate handrail section 50. This makes it possible to easily install the freestanding handrail 1 even if the stairs 100 are curved.

[0093] As described above, according to this embodiment, a self-supporting handrail 1 having a structure suitable for curved stairs can be realized. Specifically, a self-supporting handrail 1 that can achieve both ease of installation on curved stairs and safety for walking can be realized.

[0094] Furthermore, in the self-supporting handrail 1 according to this embodiment, when the first base 11 is installed on the corner tread 210 of the corner portion 110 of the stairs 100, the first base 11 has a tapered portion 11a that narrows toward the inside of the corner portion 110 of the stairs 100. In this embodiment, the tapered portion 11a narrows toward the tip of the tapered surface 211 of the corner tread 210. Specifically, the top view shape of the first base 11 is an elongated octagon.

[0095] This allows the first base 11, which has a shape suitable for the shape of the corner tread 210, to be installed on the corner tread 210. Specifically, by using the first base 11 which has a tapered portion 11a, the first base 11 can be installed closer to the edge of the corner tread 210 (for example, near the tip of the tapered surface 211 of the corner tread 210) compared to when a rectangular base is installed on the corner tread 210. This makes it possible to install the self-supporting handrail 1 even on curved stairs with narrow treads 200. Moreover, by providing the tapered portion 11a on the first base 11, the width of the first base 11 can be increased, allowing it to be installed closer to the edge of the corner tread 210. This makes it easy to secure the required weight of the first base 11 and increases the width of the passage for the user on the first base 11. As a result, even when installed on a curved staircase 100, a self-supporting handrail 1 with superior safety can be realized. Thus, by using the first base 11 in this embodiment, a self-supporting handrail 1 that can be appropriately installed on a curved staircase can be realized.

[0096] Furthermore, in the self-supporting handrail 1 of this embodiment, the first base 11 is installed on the middle corner tread 210 of the three consecutive corner treads 210.

[0097] This makes it possible to create a freestanding handrail 1 that can be installed more appropriately on curved staircases. This point will be explained below.

[0098] For example, if a base 10 is installed on two of the three consecutive corner treads 210, excluding the middle one, it becomes impossible to increase the width of the base 10. In this case, even if a long octagonal first base 11 is used as the base 10, the width of the base 10 cannot be increased, and even more so if the base 10 is rectangular. Therefore, in order to secure the desired passage width for users to walk on the base 10, only one support column 20 can be attached to the base 10 installed on the corner tread 210.

[0099] As a result, the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 at the corner 110 cannot be supported by the support column 20. Therefore, even though the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 is a point where more load is placed when the user grasps it and walks up the stairs 100, the strength of the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 is weakened. Consequently, the safety of the self-supporting handrail 1 is reduced.

[0100] Furthermore, in order to support the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32, the number of bases 10 for attaching the support columns 20 that support the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 must be increased, resulting in a large total number of bases 10 in the entire self-supporting handrail 1.

[0101] In contrast, in the self-supporting handrail 1 according to this embodiment, the first base 11 is installed on the middle corner tread 210 of the three consecutive corner treads 210.

[0102] This allows the width of the first base 11 to be increased, so that the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 can be supported by the first support column 21. This increases the strength of the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. Moreover, because the strength of the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 is increased, the number of bases 10 to which the support columns 20 that support the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 are attached can be reduced. As a result, a self-supporting handrail that can be installed more appropriately on curved stairs can be realized.

[0103] In this embodiment, the handrail 30 was provided on the inner part of the stairs 100, but this is not limited to this. For example, the handrail 30 may be provided on the outer part of the stairs 100. In other words, in this embodiment, the support column 20 was provided on the base 10 so as to be located on the inner part of the stairs 100, but it may also be provided on the base 10 so as to be located on the outer part of the stairs 100.

[0104] (Embodiment 2) Next, the freestanding handrail 1A according to Embodiment 2 will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a top view of the freestanding handrail 1A according to Embodiment 2 installed on the stairs 100.

[0105] In the above embodiment 1, the freestanding handrail 1 had a single-handrail structure, with the handrail rod 30 provided on only one of the inner or outer portions of the stairs 100. However, as shown in Figure 9, the freestanding handrail 1A in this embodiment has a double-handrail structure, with the handrail rod 30 provided on both the inner and outer portions of the stairs 100.

[0106] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first support columns 21 erected on the first base 11 installed on the corner tread 210 are provided in pairs along the longitudinal direction of the first base 11. Similarly, the second support columns 22 erected on the second base 12 installed on the straight tread 220 are provided in pairs along the longitudinal direction of the second base 12. Likewise, the third support columns 23 erected on the third base 13 installed on the straight tread 230 are provided in pairs along the longitudinal direction of the third base 13.

[0107] Furthermore, an intermediate handrail section 50 is fixed to each of the pair of first support columns 21. In other words, the self-supporting handrail 1A is equipped with a pair of intermediate handrail sections 50.

[0108] In addition, a pair of first handrails 31 are provided. Each of the pair of first handrails 31 is stretched between the first support column 21 and the second support column 22 via an intermediate handrail section 50.

[0109] Specifically, the inner first handrail 31 of the pair of first handrails 31 is connected to the inner first support 21 of the pair of first support posts 21 and the inner second support 22 of the pair of second support posts 22 via an intermediate handrail section 50 and a first connecting section 61.

[0110] Furthermore, the outer first handrail 31 of the pair of first handrails 31 is spanned between the outer first support 21 of the pair of first support posts 21 and the outer second support post 22 of the pair of second support posts 22, via an intermediate handrail section 50 and a first connecting section 61.

[0111] Between the pair of first support posts 21 and the pair of second support posts 22, the distance between the pair of first handrails 31 is constant. The user can move between the pair of first handrails 31 while grasping the pair of first handrails 31 with both hands.

[0112] In addition, a pair of second handrails 32 are provided. Each of the pair of second handrails 32 is stretched between the first support column 21 and the third support column 23 via an intermediate handrail section 50.

[0113] Specifically, the inner second handrail 32 of the pair of second handrails 32 is connected to the inner first support 21 of the pair of first support 21 and the inner third support 23 of the pair of third support 23 via an intermediate handrail section 50 and a second connecting section 62.

[0114] Furthermore, the outer second handrail 32 of the pair of second handrails 32 is stretched across the outer first support 21 of the pair of first support 21 and the outer third support 23 of the pair of third support 23 via the intermediate handrail section 50 and the second connecting section 62.

[0115] Between the pair of first support posts 21 and the pair of third support posts 23, the distance between the pair of second handrails 32 is constant. The user can move between the pair of second handrails 32 while grasping the pair of second handrails 32 with both hands.

[0116] As described above, the self-supporting handrail 1A according to this embodiment has a pair of first handrails 31 and a pair of second handrails 32, so even if there is a corner 110 on the stairs 100, the user can walk up the stairs 100 while grasping the pair of first handrails 31 and the pair of second handrails 32 with both hands. This allows the user to walk up the stairs 100 more safely.

[0117] Furthermore, the self-supporting handrail 1A according to this embodiment also includes an intermediate handrail section 50 fixed to the upper end of the first support column 21, similar to the first embodiment described above.

[0118] As a result, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, the user can grasp the intermediate handrail section 50 when walking on the corner section 110 of the stairs 100, allowing the user to walk safely on the corner section 110 and preventing the skin of the user's palm from being pinched in the groove of the joint member. Moreover, since the first handrail rod 31 and the second handrail rod 32 can change their orientation relative to the intermediate handrail section 50, the self-supporting handrail 1A can be easily installed even if the stairs 100 are curved stairs. Therefore, in this embodiment as well, a self-supporting handrail 1A with a structure suitable for curved stairs can be realized. Specifically, a self-supporting handrail 1A that can achieve both ease of installation on curved stairs and walking safety can be realized.

[0119] Furthermore, in the self-supporting handrail 1A according to this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment described above, the first base 11 installed on the corner tread 210 has a tapered portion 11a that narrows toward the inside of the corner portion 110 of the stairs 100.

[0120] This provides the same effects as in Embodiment 1 described above. Specifically, compared to the case where a rectangular base is installed on the corner tread 210, the first base 11 can be installed closer to the edge of the corner tread 210 (for example, near the tip of the tapered surface 211 of the corner tread 210). In addition, since the width of the first base 11 can be increased, the required weight of the first base 11 can be easily secured, and the width of the passage for the user on the first base 11 can be increased, so a self-supporting handrail 1A with superior safety can be realized. Therefore, a self-supporting handrail 1A that can be appropriately installed on curved stairs can be realized.

[0121] Furthermore, in the self-supporting handrail 1A of this embodiment, the first base 11 is installed on the middle corner tread 210 of the three consecutive corner treads 210.

[0122] As a result, in this embodiment as well, the width of the first base 11 can be increased, similar to Embodiment 1 described above, so that the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 can be supported by the first support column 21. Moreover, the connection between the inner first handrail 31 and the inner second handrail 32 can be supported by the inner first support column 21, and the connection between the outer first handrail 31 and the outer second handrail 32 can be supported by the outer first support column 21. This increases the strength of the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. Furthermore, the increased strength of the connection between the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32 reduces the number of bases 10 required to attach the support columns 20 that support the first handrail 31 and the second handrail 32. As a result, a self-supporting handrail 1A that can be installed more appropriately on curved stairs can be realized.

[0123] (modified version) Although the self-supporting handrail according to the present invention has been described above based on embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments.

[0124] For example, in embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the top view shape of the first base 11 was an elongated octagon (long octagon), but it is not limited to this. For example, the top view shape of the first base 11 may be an elongated polygon other than an octagon. Specifically, the top view shape of the first base 11 may be an elongated pentagon or elongated hexagon, or an elongated rhombus, or an elongated triangle. Furthermore, the top view shape of the first base 11 is not limited to an elongated polygon. For example, the top view shape of the first base 11 may be an oval, an elongated ellipse, or an elongated fan. In other words, as long as the first base 11 has a tapered portion that narrows inward toward the corner portion 110, the top view shape of the first base 11 can be any shape.

[0125] Furthermore, in embodiments 1 and 2 described above, the first base 11 had tapered portions 11a and 11b, but it is not limited to this. Specifically, the first base 11 may have only the tapered portion 11a among the tapered portions 11a and 11b.

[0126] Furthermore, although the stairs 100 in embodiments 1 and 2 described above were curved stairs, the invention is not limited to this. In other words, the freestanding handrail 1 may be installed on stairs other than curved stairs. For example, the freestanding handrail 1 may be installed on straight stairs. In this case, the freestanding handrail 1 may be installed on stairs with one to three steps, such as earthen floor stairs, or on stairs with three or more steps. In addition, the freestanding handrail 1 can be installed in places other than stairs. For example, the freestanding handrail 1 may be installed on a flat surface such as an indoor floor or the ground outdoors.

[0127] Furthermore, the present invention also includes forms obtained by applying various modifications to the above embodiments that a person skilled in the art could conceive, and forms realized by arbitrarily combining the components and functions of the above embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. In addition, the present invention also includes arbitrary combinations of one or more components from each of the multiple claims described in the claims of the present application. Furthermore, when the cited claims described in the claims of the present application are made into a multi-claim or multi-multi-claim that cites any multiple claims (for example, when each claim is made into a multi-claim or multi-multi-claim that cites all of the higher-level claims), all forms obtained by combinations of all claims included in that multi-claim or multi-multi-claim are also included in the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0128] 1. 1A Freestanding Handrail 11. First Pedestal 12. Second Pedestal 21 1st pillar 22 Second pillar 30 Handrail 50 Intermediate handrail section 100 stairs 110 Corner section 210 Corner tread

Claims

1. A freestanding handrail installed on a curved staircase, The first base and, The second base and The first support column fixed to the first base, The second support column fixed to the second base, An intermediate handrail section fixed to the upper end of the first support column, The system includes a handrail bar located between the first support column and the second support column, which can change direction relative to the intermediate handrail section. Freestanding handrail.

2. The aforementioned intermediate handrail section is shorter than the aforementioned handrail bar. The self-supporting handrail according to claim 1.

3. The length of the handrail section is 80 mm or more. The self-supporting handrail according to claim 2.

4. The color of the handrail section and the color of the handrail rod are of the same color family. A freestanding handrail according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The material of the surface of the handrail portion and the material of the surface of the handrail rod are of similar quality. A freestanding handrail according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The first base is installed on the corner tread at the corner of the curved staircase. A freestanding handrail according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

7. The top view shape of the first base is an elongated polygon. The self-supporting handrail according to claim 6.

8. The top view shape of the first base is an elongated octagon. The self-supporting handrail according to claim 6.

9. The top view shape of the first base is oblong, oblong, oblong rhombus, oblong triangle, or oblong sector. The self-supporting handrail according to claim 6.

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