Load detection device and body support device

Abstract

To provide a load detection device which can reduce force in a horizontal direction being applied to an element part, while suppressing an increase in costs.SOLUTION: A load detection device includes: an element part for detecting a load; a first member for receiving a load; and a second member which abuts on the first member and transmits a load from the first member to the element part. The first member includes: a first frame part for receiving a load; and a first transmission part which is connected to the first frame part and abuts on the second member. The second member includes: a second frame part which is connected to the element part; and a second transmission part which is connected to the second frame part and abuts on the first transmission part. The first transmission part extends in a first direction crossing a vertical direction and has a first curved surface protruding downward. The second transmission part extends in a second direction crossing the vertical direction and the first direction, and has a second curved surface protruding upward. The first transmission part and the second transmission part abut on each other in a crossing state on the first curved surface and the second curved surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a load detection device and a body support device.

Background Art

[0002] A bed having a function of measuring a user's weight is known. In such a bed, for example, a load detection device is provided to measure the user's weight. The load detection device measures the user's weight by detecting the load applied to the bed with an element such as a load cell.

[0003] In such a load detection device, in order to accurately detect the load, it is required to reduce the horizontal force applied to the element. Therefore, in the load detection device, a mechanism for reducing the horizontal force is incorporated. However, when such a mechanism is incorporated, depending on the structure, the number of parts may increase and the cost may increase.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a load detection device and a body support device that can reduce the horizontal force applied to the element while suppressing an increase in cost.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The load detection device according to the embodiment includes an element unit that detects a load, a first member that receives the load, and a second member that abuts against the first member and transmits the load from the first member to the element unit. The first member has a first frame portion that receives the load and a first transmission portion that is connected to the first frame portion and abuts against the second member. The second member has a second frame portion that is connected to the element unit and a second transmission portion that is connected to the second frame portion and abuts against the first transmission portion. The first transmission portion extends in a first direction that intersects the vertical direction and has a first curved surface that protrudes downward. The second transmission portion extends in a second direction that intersects the vertical direction and the first direction and has a second curved surface that protrudes upward. The first transmission portion and the second transmission portion abut in a state of intersecting at the first curved surface and the second curved surface.

Advantages of the Invention

[0007] The embodiment of the present invention can provide a load detection device and a body support device that can reduce the horizontal force applied to the element unit while suppressing an increase in cost.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the body support device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a side view showing the body support device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the body support device 500 includes a load detection device 100 and a support portion 200. The support portion 200 supports the user. The load detection device 100 detects the load applied from the support portion 200 to the load detection device 100, and thus detects, for example, the weight of the user supported by the support portion 200.

[0010] In this example, the body support device 500 includes a bed 210. The bed 210 is, for example, a bed used in a medical setting.

[0011] The bed 210 has a bottom 211, an upper frame 212, a lower frame 213, and a lifting connection mechanism 214. The upper frame 212 supports the bottom 211. The lower frame 213 is provided below the upper frame 212. The lifting connection mechanism 214 is provided between the upper frame 212 and the lower frame 213 and connects the upper frame 212 and the lower frame 213. The lifting connection mechanism 214 supports the upper frame 212 so as to be movable up and down with respect to the lower frame 213.

[0012] In this specification, when the body support device includes the bed 210, the longitudinal direction of the bed 210 is defined as the front-rear direction, and the short-side direction of the bed 210 is defined as the left-right direction. The bed 210 is used, for example, with the user's head placed on the front side and the user's legs placed on the rear side. The bottom 211 has a back bottom 211a, a waist bottom 211b, a knee bottom 211c, and a leg bottom 211d arranged from the front side to the rear side (i.e., from the head side to the leg side).

[0013] In this example, the support portion 200 is a part of the bed 210. In this example, the bottom 211, the upper frame 212, and the lifting connection mechanism 214 correspond to the support portion 200. In this example, a plurality of load detection devices 100 are provided around the lower frame 213. The body support device 500 detects the weight of the user by the load detection device 100 via the bottom 211, the upper frame 212, and the lifting connection mechanism 214. An example of the arrangement of the load detection device 100 will be described later.

[0014] In this example, the body support device 500 further includes a display unit 300. The display unit 300 displays, for example, the detection results of the load detection device 100. The display unit 300 displays, for example, the weight of the user detected by the load detection device 100. The display unit 300 is, for example, a monitor. The display unit 300 is provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0015] Also, the body support device 500 may have an output unit that outputs the detection results of the load detection device 100 to an external device, for example. The output unit includes, for example, a communication device that transmits the detection results to a computer, an information display terminal, or the like. Thereby, it becomes possible to transmit the detection results to, for example, a nurse station.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a part of the body support device according to the embodiment. In FIG. 3, a part of the lifting and connecting mechanism 214 (the first link member 214d and the second link member 214e), the bottom 211, and the upper frame 212 are omitted. As shown in FIG. 3, the lifting and connecting mechanism 214 is connected to the lower frame 213. The load detection device 100 is provided at the connection portion between the lower frame 213 and the lifting and connecting mechanism 214.

[0017] The lower frame 213 has a pair of vertical members 213a extending in the front-rear direction and a pair of horizontal members 213b extending in the left-right direction. The pair of horizontal members 213b are respectively provided between the pair of vertical members 213a. The front end portion of each vertical member 213a extends further forward than the horizontal member 213b, and a caster 213c is provided at the tip. The rear end portion of each vertical member 213a extends further rearward than the horizontal member 213b, and a caster 213c is provided at the tip. The bed 210 is movable by the casters 213c. The casters 213c are provided as needed and can be omitted.

[0018] The lifting connection mechanism 214 includes a pair of vertical members 214a extending in the front-rear direction, a pair of horizontal members 214b extending in the left-right direction, a pair of support members 214c extending in the left-right direction, a first link member 214d connecting the front support member 214c and the upper frame 212, and a second link member 214e connecting the rear support member 214c and the upper frame 212. The pair of support members 214c are respectively provided between the pair of vertical members 214a. The lower end of the first link member 214d is connected to the front support member 214c, and the upper end of the first link member 214d is connected to the upper frame 212. The lower end of the second link member 214e is connected to the rear support member 214c, and the upper end of the second link member 214e is connected to the upper frame 212.

[0019] The pair of vertical members 214a of the lifting connection mechanism 214 are provided between the pair of vertical members 213a of the lower frame 213 in the left-right direction. Also, the pair of horizontal members 214b and the pair of support members 214c of the lifting connection mechanism 214 are respectively provided between the pair of horizontal members 213b of the lower frame 213 in the front-rear direction.

[0020] The front ends of the pair of vertical members 214a and the front horizontal member 214b are connected via a pair of first connection members 214f. The left and right ends of the front support member 214c are connected to and fixed to the pair of vertical members 214a. The rear ends of the pair of vertical members 214a and the rear horizontal member 214b are connected via a pair of second connection members 214g. The second connection member 214g is in the shape of a hollow rail and slidably supports the left and right ends of the rear support member 214c along the front-rear direction.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1, a pair of first link members 214d and second link members 214e are provided side by side in the left-right direction. The first link member 214d and the second link member 214e intersect and are connected at the intersecting portion. The elevating link mechanism 214 raises and lowers the upper frame 212 with respect to the lower frame 213 by rotating the first link member 214d and the second link member 214e about the intersecting portion. The first link member 214d and the second link member 214e function as a so-called X-shaped link mechanism.

[0022] In this example, the body support device 500 has four load detection devices 100. The body support device 500 calculates the weight of the user based on, for example, the detection results of the four load detection devices 100. The body support device 500 includes a pair of first load detection devices 100a provided on the front side and a pair of second load detection devices 100b provided on the rear side. The pair of first load detection devices 100a are provided around the first connection member 214f. The pair of second load detection devices 100b are provided around the second connection member 214g.

[0023] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a part of the body support device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the region R1 shown in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the first load detection device 100a is provided on the front horizontal member 214b of the elevating link mechanism 214 and is fixed to the front horizontal member 214b. Thereby, the load from the elevating link mechanism 214 is transmitted to the first load detection device 100a.

[0024] FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b) are a front view and a side view showing the load detection device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5(a) is a view seen from the direction of arrow A1 shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 5(b) is a view seen from the direction of arrow A2 shown in FIG. 4. In FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the front horizontal member 214b, which is a part of the support portion 200, is shown by a two-dot chain line. As shown in FIGS. 5(a) and 5(b), the first load detection device 100a includes a first member 10, a second member 20, and an element unit 30.

[0025] The element unit 30 detects a load. The element unit 30 is, for example, a load cell. The load cell includes a strain gauge whose resistance value changes due to the strain generated by the load. The load cell detects a load value based on the change in voltage due to the change in resistance value. In this example, the element unit 30 is a beam-type load cell. As will be described later, the element unit 30 may be a thin-type load cell. Also, the element unit 30 may be, for example, a pressure sensor or a tension sensor. The element unit 30 outputs the detection result to a control unit (not shown), for example. The control unit outputs the detection result to a display unit 300 or an output unit, for example.

[0026] The first member 10 is connected to the support unit 200 and receives the load from the support unit 200. The first member 10 includes a first frame portion 11 and a first transmission portion 12. The first frame portion 11 is connected to the support unit 200 and receives the load from the support unit 200. The first transmission portion 12 is connected to the first frame portion 11 and abuts against the second member 20.

[0027] The first frame portion 11 includes a first base portion 11a and a first extending portion 11b that extends along the vertical direction from an end portion of the first base portion 11a in the first direction. The first transmission portion 12 extends in the first direction, and an end portion thereof is connected to the first extending portion 11b. In this example, a pair of first extending portions 11b that face each other are provided at both end portions of the first frame portion 11 in the first direction, and the first transmission portion 12 is provided between the pair of first extending portions 11b.

[0028] The first direction is a direction that intersects the vertical direction. The first direction is, for example, a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. That is, the first direction is, for example, a direction along the horizontal direction. In this example, the first direction is the front-rear direction. In this example, the pair of first extending portions 11b extend upward from the front end portion and the rear end portion of the first base portion 11a. In this example, a part (the first base portion 11a) of the first frame portion 11 is located below the first transmission portion 12.

[0029] The first member 10 includes at least one of, for example, resin and metal. The first member 10 may include only one of resin and metal, or may include both resin and metal.

[0030] The second member 20 abuts against the first member 10 and transmits the load from the first member 10 to the element portion 30. The second member 20 has a second frame portion 21 and a second transmission portion 22. The second frame portion 21 is directly or indirectly connected to the element portion 30 and transmits the load from the first member 10 to the element portion 30. The second transmission portion 22 is connected to the second frame portion 21 and abuts against the first transmission portion 12.

[0031] The second frame portion 21 has a second base portion 21a and a second extending portion 21b extending along the vertical direction from an end portion of the second base portion 21a in the second direction. The second transmission portion 22 extends in the second direction, and an end portion thereof is connected to the second extending portion 21b. In this example, a pair of second extending portions 21b facing each other are provided at both end portions of the second frame portion 21 in the second direction, and the second transmission portion 22 is provided between the pair of second extending portions 21b.

[0032] The second direction is a direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction. The second direction is, for example, a direction orthogonal to the vertical direction. That is, the second direction is, for example, a direction along the horizontal direction. Also, the second direction is, for example, a direction orthogonal to the first direction. In this example, the second direction is the left - right direction. In this example, the pair of second extending portions 21b extend downward from the left - hand end portion and the right - hand end portion of the second base portion 21a. In this example, a part (the second base portion 21a) of the second frame portion 21 is located above the second transmission portion 22.

[0033] In this example, the second member 20 further has a pin-shaped stopper 23. The stopper 23 is provided at the end of the second transmission part 22 in the second direction, and restricts the movement of the second transmission part 22 in the second direction with respect to the second extending part 21b. Thereby, the stopper 23 suppresses the second transmission part 22 from coming off the second extending part 21b. The stopper 23 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

[0034] The second member 20 includes, for example, at least one of resin and metal. The second member 20 may include only one of resin and metal, or may include both resin and metal.

[0035] In this example, the first base 11a of the first member 10 is connected above the support part 200, and the first transmission part 12 is provided above the first base 11a. On the other hand, the second base 21a of the second member 20 is connected below the element part 30, and the second transmission part 22 is provided below the second base 21a. The first transmission part 12 engages with the second transmission part 22 from above. That is, the first member 10 is arranged so as to be suspended with respect to the second member 20. Thereby, the load from the support part 200 is transmitted to the element part 30 via the first member 10 and the second member 20.

[0036] In this example, the first direction in which the first transmission part 12 extends is a direction along the detection direction of the element part 30 (that is, the longitudinal direction of the load cell), and the second direction in which the second transmission part 22 extends is a direction orthogonal to the detection direction of the element part 30. Note that the first direction and the second direction are not limited to these directions. For example, the first direction may be a direction orthogonal to the detection direction of the element part 30, and the second direction may be a direction along the detection direction of the element part 30.

[0037] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a part of the load detection device according to the embodiment. In FIG. 6, only the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 are shown. As shown in FIG. 6, the first transmission part 12 has a first curved surface 12a that protrudes downward. The second transmission part 22 has a second curved surface 22a that protrudes upward.

[0038] The first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 are in contact with each other in an intersecting state on the first curved surface 12a and the second curved surface 22a. By the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 being in contact with each other with convex surfaces, the contact area can be made smaller than when the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 are in contact with each other with parallel planes. Also, by the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 being in contact with each other in an intersecting state, the contact area can be made smaller than when the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 are in contact with each other in a state of extending in parallel. The first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 are, for example, in point contact on the first curved surface 12a and the second curved surface 22a.

[0039] In this example, the first transmission part 12 has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction (front-rear direction). That is, the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part 12 in a plane orthogonal to the first direction is circular. In this example, the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part 12 in a plane orthogonal to the first direction is a perfect circle. The cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part 12 in a plane orthogonal to the first direction may be, for example, elliptical. Also, the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part 12 in a plane orthogonal to the first direction may be, for example, semi-circular or the like. The first transmission part 12 only needs to have at least the first curved surface 12a protruding downward.

[0040] In this example, the second transmission part 22 has a cylindrical shape extending in the second direction (left-right direction). That is, the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part 22 in a plane orthogonal to the second direction is circular. In this example, the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part 22 in a plane orthogonal to the second direction is a perfect circle. The cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part 22 in a plane orthogonal to the second direction may be, for example, elliptical. Also, the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part 22 in a plane orthogonal to the second direction may be, for example, semi-circular or the like. The second transmission part 22 only needs to have at least the second curved surface 22a protruding upward.

[0041] FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing another part of the body support device according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the region R2 shown in FIG. 3. In FIG. 7, for the sake of explanation, the horizontal member 213b on the rear side of the lower frame 213 is omitted. As shown in FIG. 7, the second load detection device 100b is provided on the horizontal member 214b on the rear side of the lifting connection mechanism 214 and on the second connection member 214g, and is fixed to the second connection member 214g. Thereby, the load from the lifting connection mechanism 214 is transmitted to the second load detection device 100b.

[0042] FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) are a front view and a side view showing the load detection device according to the embodiment. FIG. 8(a) is a view seen from the direction of arrow A3 shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 8(b) is a view seen from the direction of arrow A4 shown in FIG. 7. In FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b), the front horizontal member 214b, which is a part of the support portion 200, is shown by a two-dot chain line. As shown in FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b), the second load detection device 100b includes a first member 10, a second member 20, an element portion 30, and a connecting member 40. Since the first member 10, the second member 20, and the element portion 30 are substantially the same as the first member 10, the second member 20, and the element portion 30 in the first load detection device 100a, the description thereof is omitted.

[0043] In this example, the second member 20 is connected to the element portion 30 via the connecting member 40. More specifically, the connecting member 40 is provided on the element portion 30 and the second base portion 21a of the second member 20, and the second base portions 21a of the element portion 30 and the second member 20 are connected to the connecting member 40 from below, respectively. Thereby, the load from the support portion 200 is transmitted to the element portion 30 via the first member 10, the second member 20, and the connecting member 40. Thus, the second member 20 may be indirectly connected to the element portion 30.

[0044] Also in this example, the first transmission portion 12 and the second transmission portion 22 are in contact with each other in an intersecting state at the first curved surface 12a and the second curved surface 22a.

[0045] FIGS. 9(a) and 9(b) are front views showing a part of the load detection device according to the embodiment. FIG. 10(a) and FIG. 10(b) are side views showing a part of the load detection device according to the embodiment. In FIGS. 9(a), 9(b), 10(a), and 10(b), the first member 10 is shown by a two-dot chain line, and the second member 20 is shown by a solid line. Also, in FIGS. 9(a), 9(b), 10(a), and 10(b), the element part 30 is omitted. As shown in FIGS. 9(a), 9(b), 10(a), and 10(b), in the load detection device 100 according to the embodiment, when the first member 10 moves relative to the second member 20, the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 via the second member 20 can be reduced.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 9(a), for example, when a horizontal force is applied to the first member 10, the first member 10 can slide horizontally on the second transmission part 22 via the first transmission part 12, thereby reducing the horizontal force applied to the first member 10.

[0047] As shown in FIG. 9(b), for example, when a rotational force about the front-rear direction is applied to the first member 10, the first member 10 can rotate about the front-rear direction on the second transmission part 22 via the first transmission part 12, thereby reducing the rotational force about the front-rear direction applied to the first member 10.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 10(a), for example, when a front-rear direction force is applied to the first member 10, the first member 10 can slide in the front-rear direction on the second transmission part 22 via the first transmission part 12, thereby reducing the front-rear direction force applied to the first member 10.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 10(b), for example, when a rotational force about the left-right direction is applied to the first member 10, the first member 10 can rotate about the left-right direction on the second transmission part 22 via the first transmission part 12, thereby reducing the rotational force about the left-right direction applied to the first member 10.

[0050] Hereinafter, the effects of the load detection device and the body support device according to the embodiment will be described. In a load detection device provided on a bed or the like for measuring the weight of a user, in order to accurately detect the load, it is required to reduce the horizontal force applied to the element part. As a solution to this, it is conceivable to incorporate a mechanism for reducing the horizontal force in the load detection device. However, depending on the structure of this mechanism, the number of parts may increase and the cost may increase.

[0051] On the other hand, according to the embodiment, by abutting the first member 10 connected to the support part 200 and the second member 20 connected to the element part 30, and making the structure such that the horizontal force is reduced by the sliding or rotation of the first member 10, the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be reduced with a simple structure. More specifically, by making the structure such that the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 abut in an intersecting state on the first curved surface 12a and the second curved surface 22a, for example, compared with a conventional structure in which a sphere is arranged between curved surfaces provided vertically, the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be reduced with a simple structure having fewer parts. Also, the labor and cost involved in processing the parts can be reduced. Thereby, while suppressing an increase in cost, the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be reduced.

[0052] Further, by making the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 cylindrical, they can be easily manufactured, and the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be more effectively reduced.

[0053] Further, by making the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part 12 and the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part 22 circular, they can be more easily manufactured, and the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be more effectively reduced.

[0054] Further, by providing the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 so as to be orthogonal to each other (that is, the first direction and the second direction are orthogonal to each other), the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 can be more effectively reduced.

[0055] Further, a part of the first frame portion 11 is located below the first transmission portion 12, and the first member 10 is arranged to be suspended with respect to the second member 20. Thus, the first extending portion 11b of the first frame portion 11 restricts the movement of the first transmission portion 12 in the first direction, and the second extending portion 21b of the second frame portion 21 can restrict the movement of the first transmission portion 12 in the second direction.

[0056] Hereinafter, a modification will be described. FIGS. 11(a) to 11(c) are perspective views showing a part of the load detection device according to a modification of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11(a), the first transmission portion 12 may have a tapered shape that becomes narrower from both ends in the first direction toward the central portion. Also, the second transmission portion 22 may have a tapered shape that becomes narrower from both ends in the second direction toward the central portion. With such a shape, even if a horizontal force is applied to the load detection device 100 and the contact portion between the first transmission portion 12 and the second transmission portion 22 is displaced from the central portion of the first transmission portion 12 or the central portion of the second transmission portion 22, it is likely to automatically return to the original position.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 11(b), the first transmission portion 12 may include a contact portion 12x including a first curved surface 12a that contacts the second transmission portion 22, and a restricting portion 12y having a larger cross-sectional diameter than the contact portion 12x. Also, the second transmission portion 22 may include a contact portion 22x including a second curved surface 22a that contacts the first transmission portion 12, and a restricting portion 22y having a larger cross-sectional diameter than the contact portion 22x. With such a shape, even if a horizontal force is applied to the load detection device 100 and the first transmission portion 12 moves in the first direction, the movement of the first transmission portion 12 can be restricted by the restricting portion 12y. Also, even if a horizontal force is applied to the load detection device 100 and the first transmission portion 12 moves in the second direction, the movement of the first transmission portion 12 can be restricted by the restricting portion 22y.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 11(c), the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission portion 12 in a plane orthogonal to the first direction may be, for example, an ellipse. Further, the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission portion 22 in a plane orthogonal to the second direction may be, for example, an ellipse.

[0059] Note that the cross-sectional shape of the first transmission portion 12 and the cross-sectional shape of the second transmission portion may be the same or different.

[0060] FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b) are perspective views showing a load detection device according to a modified example of the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), in this example, the first member 10 is arranged to push the second member 20.

[0061] More specifically, a pair of first extending portions 11b extend downward from the first base portion 11a, and the first transmission portion 12 is provided between the pair of first extending portions 11b. A part (the first base portion 11a) of the first frame portion 11 is located above the first transmission portion 12. Further, a pair of second extending portions 21b extend upward from both ends in the second direction of the second base portion 21a, and the second transmission portion 22 is provided between the pair of second extending portions 21b. A part (the second base portion 21a) of the second frame portion 21 is located below the second transmission portion 22.

[0062] In the example of FIG. 12(a), the first member 10 is connected under a support portion 200 (not shown), and the element portion 30 is connected under the second member 20. Thereby, the load from the support portion 200 is transmitted to the element portion 30 via the first member 10 and the second member 20.

[0063] In the example of FIG. 12(b), a connecting member 40 is provided under the element portion 30 and the second member 20, and the element portion 30 and the second member 20 are respectively connected to the connecting member 40 from above. Thereby, the load from the support portion 200 is transmitted to the element portion 30 via the first member 10, the second member 20, and the connecting member 40.

[0064] Also, in the examples of FIGS. 12(a) and 12(b), the first member 10 further has a pin-shaped stopper 13. The stopper 13 is provided at the end of the first transmission part 12 in the first direction and restricts the movement of the first transmission part 12 in the first direction with respect to the first extending part 11b. Thereby, the stopper 13 suppresses the first transmission part 12 from coming off the first extending part 11b. The stopper 13 is provided as necessary and can be omitted.

[0065] A part of the first frame part 11 is located above the first transmission part 12, and by arranging the first member 10 to push the second member 20, the support part 200 and the lower frame 213 can be easily attached and detached. Thereby, for example, it becomes possible to transport each unit individually and assemble it at the customer's site. Also, for example, it becomes possible to select the presence or absence of a body weight measurement function by exchanging the entire frame.

[0066] FIGS. 13(a) to 13(c) are perspective views showing a part of the load detection device according to a modified example of the embodiment. In FIGS. 13(a) to 13(c), the element part 30 is omitted. As shown in FIGS. 13(a) to 13(c), the first transmission part 12 of the first member 10 is fixed to the first extending part 11b by, for example, welding, caulking, nuts, step parts, etc.

[0067] In the example of FIG. 13(a), the first transmission part 12 is fixed to a pair of first extending parts 11b by welding or caulking.

[0068] In the example of FIG. 13(b), the end of the first transmission part 12 is in the shape of a bolt, and by attaching a nut 14 to the end, the first transmission part 12 is fixed to the first extending part 11b.

[0069] In the example of FIG. 13(c), a step part 15 is provided on the first transmission part 12, and by fitting the first extending part 11b into the step part 15, the first transmission part 12 is fixed to the first extending part 11b.

[0070] By making the first transmission part 12 detachably attachable to the first extending part 11b by means of a nut, a pin-shaped fastener, a stepped part, etc., the maintainability can be improved. Thereby, for example, when a problem occurs in the contact between the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 due to wear or the like, the first transmission part 12 can be easily replaced.

[0071] In particular, in the case of a pin-shaped fastener, it can be attached and detached without using tools, so the maintainability can be further improved.

[0072] Here, the first member 10 has been described as an example, but the same configuration can also be applied to the second member 20. Further, from the viewpoint of the above-described maintainability, in at least one of the first member 10 and the second member 20, it is preferable to make the transmission part (the first transmission part 12 or the second transmission part 22) detachably attachable by using a nut, a pin-shaped fastener, a stepped part, etc.

[0073] Also, for example, when the first transmission part 12 is made of resin and the second transmission part 22 is made of metal, the first transmission part 12 is relatively likely to wear, and the second transmission part 22 is relatively unlikely to wear. Thus, by making the material of the first transmission part 12 different from the material of the second transmission part 22, for example, wear of one of the first transmission part 12 and the second transmission part 22 can be suppressed. Moreover, by making the transmission part with greater wear detachably attachable, the replacement can be facilitated and the maintainability of the load detection device can be improved.

[0074] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a part of a load detection device according to a modified example of the embodiment. In FIG. 14, the element part 30 is omitted. As shown in FIG. 14, in this example, only one first extending part 11b is provided, and one end of the first transmission part 12 is fixed to the first extending part 11b. That is, in this example, only one side of the first transmission part 12 is fixed to the first extending part 11b.

[0075] Also, in this example, only one second extending portion 21b is provided, and one end of the second transmission portion 22 is fixed to the second extending portion 21b. That is, in this example, only one side of the second transmission portion 22 is fixed to the second extending portion 21b.

[0076] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a part of the load detection device according to a modified example of the embodiment. In FIG. 15, the element portion 30 is omitted. As shown in FIG. 15, in this example, a pair of second extending portions 21b of the second member 20 extend along the front-rear direction from the second base portion 21a, and the second base portion 21a is located behind the second transmission portion 22. The second base portion 21a may be located in front of the second transmission portion 22, for example.

[0077] Similarly, for example, when a pair of second extending portions 21b of the second member 20 extend along the left-right direction from the second base portion 21a, the second base portion 21a may be located on the left side or the right side of the second transmission portion 22. Thus, the second base portion 21a may be located other than above or below the second transmission portion 22.

[0078] By arranging in this way, for example, the vertical size of the load detection device 100 can be suppressed.

[0079] FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing the load detection device according to a modified example of the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 16, in this example, a thin load cell 32 is provided as the element portion 30.

[0080] The thin load cell 32 has a central portion 32a and an outer peripheral portion 32b. The central portion 32a is connected to the second base portion 21a of the second member 20. The outer peripheral portion 32b is connected to, for example, the lower frame 213 or the like.

[0081] Even when the thin load cell 32 is provided as the element portion 30, with the structure of abutting the first member 10 and the second member 20, it is possible to reduce the horizontal force applied to the element portion 30 while suppressing an increase in cost.

[0082] FIG. 17(a) and FIG. 17(b) are perspective views showing a part of the body support device according to a modification of the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 17(a) and 17(b), the body support device 500 is provided with, for example, a plurality of load detection devices 100. In this example, four load detection devices 100 are provided. Also, in this example, the orientations of the element portions 30 of the four load detection devices 100 are the same.

[0083] In the example of FIG. 17(a), four load detection devices 100 are connected to one support portion 200. Thus, when a load is applied to somewhere on the support portion 200, the four load detection devices 100 detect the load.

[0084] In the example of FIG. 17(b), the support portion 200 is divided into four, and the four load detection devices 100 are respectively connected to separate support portions 200. In this way, by connecting the plurality of load detection devices 100 to separate support portions 200, the area for detecting the load can be divided. Thereby, for example, only the load detection device 100 connected to the support portion 200 to which the load is applied detects the load. Therefore, it is possible to determine where the user is located.

[0085] FIG. 18(a) and FIG. 18(b) are perspective views showing a part of the body support device according to a modification of the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b), when a plurality of load detection devices 100 are provided, the orientations of the element portions 30 may be different.

[0086] In the example of FIG. 18(a), each load detection device 100 is provided such that the orientations of the element portions 30 face each other in the front - rear direction. In the example of FIG. 18(b), each load detection device 100 is provided such that the orientations of the element portions 30 face each other in the left - right direction.

[0087] In FIGS. 17(a), 17(b), 18(a) and 18(b), examples of the arrangement when four load detection devices 100 are provided are shown. However, the number of load detection devices 100 to be provided is not limited to four. In the embodiment, at least one load detection device 100 may be provided, or two or more load detection devices 100 may be provided. By increasing the number of load detection devices 100, for example, the position of the user can be detected more accurately.

[0088] FIGS. 19(a) and 19(b) are perspective views showing a part of a body support device according to a modification of the embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 19(a) and 19(b), two load detection devices 100 arranged in the front-rear direction or the left-right direction may be connected to support portions 200 at the same height, or may be connected to support portions 200 at different heights.

[0089] FIG. 20 is a side view showing another body support device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, in this example, the body support device 500A includes a chair 220. The chair 220 is, for example, a chair used in a medical site.

[0090] The chair 220 has a seating portion 221 on which the user sits and a pedestal portion 222 that supports the seating portion 221. The pedestal portion 222 is provided below the seating portion 221. The load detection device 100 is provided between the seating portion 221 and the pedestal portion 222. Further, a display portion 300 is provided on the seating portion 221.

[0091] In this example, the support portion 200 is a part of the chair 220. In this example, for example, the seating portion 221 corresponds to the support portion 200. In this example, the first member 10 is connected to the seating portion 221. Further, the element portion 30 is connected to the pedestal portion 222.

[0092] Also in this example, with the structure in which the first member 10 and the second member 20 are brought into contact with each other, the horizontal force applied to the element portion 30 can be reduced while suppressing an increase in cost.

[0093] FIG. 21 is a side view showing another body support device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 21, in this example, the body support device 500B includes a lift 230. The lift 230 is, for example, a lift used in a medical site.

[0094] The lift 230 has a hanger part 231 that supports a user, an arm part 232 that supports the hanger part 231, and a pedestal part 233 that supports the arm part 232. The hanger part 231 is suspended at the tip of the arm part 232. The pedestal part 233 is provided below the arm part 232. The hanger part 231 has a basket part 231a that supports the user, and a mounting part 231b that is provided on the basket part 231a and attaches the basket part 231a to the arm part 232. The load detection device 100 is provided between the basket part 231a and the mounting part 231b. Also, a display part 300 is provided on the hanger part 231.

[0095] In this example, the support part 200 is a part of the lift 230. In this example, for example, the basket part 231a corresponds to the support part 200. In this example, the first member 10 is connected to the basket part 231a. Also, the element part 30 is connected to the mounting part 231b.

[0096] Also in this example, with the structure of abutting the first member 10 and the second member 20, it is possible to reduce the horizontal force applied to the element part 30 while suppressing an increase in cost.

[0097] As described above, according to the embodiment, it is possible to provide a load detection device and a body support device that can reduce the horizontal force applied to the element part while suppressing an increase in cost.

[0098] Although some embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, replacements, and changes can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included in the scope and gist of the invention, as well as in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0099] 10 First member 11 First frame part 11a First base 11b First extending part 12 First transmission part 12a First curved surface 12x Contact part 12y Regulation part 13 Fastener 14 Nut 15 Step part 20 Second member 21 Second frame part 21a Second base 21b Second extending part 22 Second transmission part 22a Second curved surface 22x Contact part 22y Regulation part 23 Fastener 30 Element part 32 Thin load cell 32a Central part 32b Outer peripheral part 40 Connecting member 100 Load detection device 100a First load detection device 100b Second load detection device 200 Support part 210 Bed 211 Bottom 211a Back bottom 211b Waist bottom 211c Knee bottom 211d Leg bottom 212 Upper frame 213 Lower frame 213a Vertical member 213b Horizontal member 213c Caster 214 Lifting connection mechanism 214a Vertical member 214b Horizontal member 214c Support member 214d First link member 214e Second link member 214f First connection member 214g Second connection member 220 Chair 221 Seating part 222 Pedestal part 230 Lift 231 Hanger part 231a Basket part 231b Mounting part 232 Arm part 233 Pedestal part 300 Display part 500, 500A, 500B Body support device

Claims

1. An element part for detecting a load, A first member for receiving a load, A second member that abuts against the first member and transmits the load from the first member to the element part, Comprising: The first member has a first frame part for receiving a load and a first transmission part connected to the first frame part and abutting against the second member. The second member has a second frame part connected to the element part and a second transmission part connected to the second frame part and abutting against the first transmission part. The first transmission part extends in a first direction intersecting the vertical direction and has a first curved surface protruding downward. The second transmission part extends in a second direction intersecting the vertical direction and the first direction and has a second curved surface protruding upward. The first transmission part and the second transmission part are in contact with each other in a state of intersecting at the first curved surface and the second curved surface. The cross-sectional shape of the first transmission part in a plane orthogonal to the first direction is a perfect circle or an ellipse. The cross-sectional shape of the second transmission part in a plane orthogonal to the second direction is a perfect circle or an ellipse. A load detection device.

2. The first transmission part has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction. The second transmission part has a cylindrical shape extending in the second direction. The load detection device according to Claim 1.

3. The second direction is orthogonal to the first direction. The load detection device according to Claim 1 or 2.

4. A part of the first frame part is located below the first transmission part. The load detection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. A part of the first frame part is located above the first transmission part. The load detection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

6. The load detection device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, A support part for supporting a user, Comprising: The load detection device detects the weight of the user supported by the support part. A body support device.

Images