Animal walking guidance device

Abstract

To provide an animal walking guidance device that can assist animals in sustained walking on their own in a limited space. [Solution] The animal walking guidance device 100 has a base 110 and a support column 120. The base 110 has a hole in the center. The support column 120 is erected on the base 110 by fitting into the hole in the base 110. At least a portion of the support column 120 is flexible. The support column 120 is also provided with a locking part that can be used to lock a leash extending from a wheelchair used to assist the walking of the animal being guided. The locking part is located above the flexible portion. Furthermore, the locking part is rotatable relative to the base 110.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a walking guidance device for animals. [Background technology]

[0002] As pet dogs and other animals age, their legs and hips weaken, making it difficult for them to walk on their own. Being unable to move independently is a source of significant stress for animals. Therefore, wheelchair-type support devices have been developed as walking aids for senior dogs. By supporting the dog's weight with these devices, dogs can walk of their own volition.

[0003] Devices to assist dogs in walking include not only wheelchair-type support devices. For example, a pet walking function recovery device has been proposed that allows users to walk alongside their pet while reducing the load on the pet's front and hind legs. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-017090 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Wheelchair-type support devices support dogs using a frame structure and wheels, and are designed assuming the dog walks in a straight line. Therefore, it is difficult for dogs with weakened leg muscles to change direction on their own. Because they cannot change direction, even with a wheelchair-type support device, it is not possible to allow dogs to exercise continuously in confined spaces such as indoors. Furthermore, the above-mentioned pet walking function recovery devices have a structure that suspends the dog with a lifting wire, making the entire device large and unsuitable for installation in limited spaces such as the interior of a typical home.

[0006] In one aspect, the present invention aims to provide an animal walking guidance device that can assist animals in sustained walking movements on their own in a limited space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One design provides an animal walking guidance device having a base and a support column. The base has a hole in the center. The support column is erected on the base by fitting into the hole, and at least a portion of it is flexible, with a locking portion provided above the flexible portion to which a leash extending from a wheelchair for assisting the walking of the animal to be guided can be attached, and the locking portion is rotatable relative to the base. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one embodiment, it is possible to assist an animal in sustained walking movement on its own in a limited space. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of a walking guidance device for animals. [Figure 2] This diagram shows an example of a connection structure between a connecting belt and a support column. [Figure 3] This is an exploded view showing an example of the components of the base and support column. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of support posts of different lengths. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of weight plates of different weights. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view of an animal walking guidance device for small dogs. [Figure 7] This is a cross-sectional view of an animal walking guidance device for large dogs. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a dog's walking behavior using an animal walking guidance device. [Figure 9] This diagram shows an example of the relationship between the height of the support column of an animal walking guidance device and the height of a dog's shoulder. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a force acting on a dog. [Figure 11] This is a diagram showing an example of the change in tension. [Figure 12] This is a diagram showing an example of a walking guidance device for animals with a bearing provided at the upper part.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that multiple embodiments can be combined and implemented within a non - conflicting range. 〔First Embodiment〕 The first embodiment is an example of a walking guidance device for animals that can assist the animal's self - sustained walking movement in a limited space. In the following description, it is assumed that the animal performing the walking movement is a dog.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a walking guidance device for animals. The walking guidance device 100 for animals has a pedestal 110, a support column 120, and a connecting belt 130. The pedestal 110 is the base of the walking guidance device 100 for animals. The pedestal 110 is, for example, a disk - shaped weight. The pedestal 110 has a weight that cannot be moved by the power of a dog and does not fall over. A hole into which the support column 120 can be inserted is provided at the center of the pedestal 110.

[0012] The support column 120 is inserted into the hole of the pedestal 110 from above and is rotatably connected to the pedestal 110 around a vertical axis passing through the center of the hole. The support column 120 has a lower coupling portion 121, a flexible pipe 122, an upper coupling portion 123, a collar with a buckle 124, and a cap 125. \n

[0013] The lower coupling portion 121 is embedded in the base 110, and the flexible pipe 122 is inserted and fixed (fitted) into it. The flexible pipe 122 is a cylindrical member with flexibility. The upper coupling portion 123 is fitted to the upper end of the flexible pipe 122. The buckle collar 124 is a cylindrical member that surrounds the coupling portion 123. The buckle collar 124 is provided with a buckle for connecting to the connecting belt 130. The cap 125 is attached to the upper end of the coupling portion 123 and protects the coupling portion 123.

[0014] The connecting belt 130 is an example of a leash for guiding a dog. The connecting belt 130 connects the animal walking guidance device 100 to the dog wheelchair in which the dog is seated. The length of the connecting belt 130 can be adjusted according to the radius of the circle in which the dog is to move. The connecting belt 130 is connected to the animal walking guidance device 100 and the dog wheelchair, respectively, by buckles provided at both ends.

[0015] Figure 2 shows an example of a connection structure between a connecting belt and a support post. For example, the buckle collar 124 is provided with a female buckle 124a. The connecting belt 130 is provided with male buckles 132 and 133 at both ends of the belt 131. By inserting one male buckle 132 of the connecting belt 130 into the female buckle 124a of the buckle collar 124, the connecting belt 130 can be connected to the support post 120. The female buckle 124a is an example of a locking part that can secure a leash extending from a wheelchair used to assist dogs in walking exercises. The other male buckle 133 of the connecting belt 130 is inserted into a female buckle provided on the dog wheelchair. This connects the dog wheelchair and the animal walking guidance device 100.

[0016] Figure 3 is an exploded view showing an example of the components of the base and support column. For example, the base 110 has multiple weight plates 111, 112. The weight of each weight plate 111, 112 is determined according to the weight of the dog performing the walking exercise. Cylindrical holes 113, 114 are drilled in the center of the weight plates 111, 112. The weight plates 111, 112 are coated with, for example, urethane. The urethane coating reduces metallic odor, preventing the dog from smelling an unpleasant odor. In the example in Figure 3, two weight plates 111, 112 are shown, but the number of weight plates may be one.

[0017] In addition to the upper and lower coupling parts 121, 123, flexible pipe 122, buckle collar 124, and cap 125 shown in Figure 1, the support column 120 also has a bearing part 126 and bearings 127, 128.

[0018] The bearing portion 126 is a cylindrical collar that covers the coupling portion 121. The bearing portion 126 is, for example, a metal pipe. The bearing portion 126 is fitted and fixed into the holes 113 and 114 of the weight plates 111 and 112.

[0019] Lightweight and highly rigid metal materials can be used for the bearing portion 126. Examples of such metal materials include aluminum alloys such as A6063 or A6061. An aluminum alloy bearing portion 126 has sufficient strength and rigidity to serve as a bearing for the support column 120. In other words, a bearing portion 126 made of aluminum alloy can withstand high loads that resin cannot.

[0020] Furthermore, aluminum alloys are easy to machine precisely. Therefore, if the bearing portion 126 is made of aluminum alloy, it is easy to machine it to any desired length and thickness. In addition, aluminum alloys have the flexibility to be press-fitted. Therefore, by using aluminum alloy as the bearing portion 126, the bearings 127 and 128 can be firmly fixed to the holes 113 and 114 of the base 110. In other words, because the aluminum alloy is moderately softer than the steel bearings 127 and 128, the material deforms slightly during press-fitting, and it fits tightly against the outer rings of the bearings 127 and 128 without any gaps. By using a bearing portion 126 made of such a flexible material, it is possible to firmly fix the support column 120 to the base 110 without any looseness, without requiring expensive precision machining.

[0021] Two bearings 127 and 128 rotatably connect the bearing section 126 and the coupling section 121. The bearings 127 and 128 are, for example, ball bearings or radial bearings. The bearings 127 and 128 are inserted into the bearing section 126 and fixed to the inner surface of the bearing section 126 at predetermined intervals.

[0022] The coupling portion 121 has a shape in which a lower cylindrical portion 121a having the same outer diameter as the inner diameter of the bearings 127 and 128 is joined to an upper cylindrical portion 121b having the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the flexible pipe 122. The lower cylindrical portion 121a of the coupling portion 121 is fitted and fixed to the bearings 127 and 128.

[0023] The flexible pipe 122 is a pipe whose flexibility is achieved by alternating sections of large and small diameters. The flexible pipe 122 is, for example, a PF (Plastic Flexible) pipe. A PF pipe is a self-extinguishing synthetic resin conduit. By using a self-extinguishing flexible pipe 122, for example, the safety of the animal walking guidance device 100 when used indoors is improved. The flexible pipe 122 is fitted and fixed to the upper cylindrical section 121b of the coupling section 121.

[0024] The coupling portion 123 has a shape formed by joining a lower cylindrical portion 123a having the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the flexible pipe 122 and an upper cylindrical portion 123b having the same outer diameter as the inner diameter of the buckle-equipped collar 124. The upper end of the flexible pipe 122 is fitted and fixed into the lower cylindrical portion 123a of the coupling portion 123.

[0025] The buckle-equipped collar 124 has a female buckle 124a fixed to the side of a cylindrical portion 124b, which has the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123. The upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123 is fitted and fixed into the cylindrical portion 124b of the buckle-equipped collar 124. Note that the height of the cylindrical portion 124b of the buckle-equipped collar 124 is shorter than the height of the upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123. Therefore, when the buckle-equipped collar 124 is fixed to the coupling portion 123, the upper end of the upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123 protrudes upward.

[0026] The cap 125 has the same inner diameter as the outer diameter of the upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123. The protruding upper end of the upper cylindrical portion 123b of the coupling portion 123 is fitted into and fixed to the cap 125.

[0027] The support post 120 should be of a length appropriate to the size of the dog being exercised. Figure 4 shows examples of support posts of different lengths. Figure 4(A) is a support post 120a for small dogs. Figure 4(B) is a support post 120b for medium-sized dogs. Figure 4(C) is a support post 120c for large dogs. The support post 120a for small dogs is the shortest. The support post 120b for medium-sized dogs is longer than the support post 120a for small dogs. The support post 120c for large dogs is longer than the support post 120b for medium-sized dogs. For example, the length of the support post 120a for small dogs is 190 mm, the length of the support post 120b for medium-sized dogs is 290 mm, and the length of the support post 120c for large dogs is 390 mm.

[0028] The lengths of each support column 120a, 120b, and 120c are adjusted according to the lengths of their respective flexible pipes 122a, 122b, and 122c. The upper and lower coupling parts 121 and 123, bearing part 126, etc., are located on the support columns 120a, 120b, and 120c. no sa Since the sizes are common, they are assigned the same designation. The flexible portion of each of the flexible pipes 122a, 122b, and 122c is the area above the upper end of the lower coupling portion 121 and below the lower end of the upper coupling portion 123. Focusing on the support post 120c for large dogs, the flexible portion is longer than that of the other supports 120a and 120b. If left as is, there is a possibility that the flexible pipe 122c will bend near the upper end of the coupling portion 121 and will not return to its original shape.

[0029] Therefore, when using the support post 120c for large dogs, a reinforcing pipe 140 is inserted into the support post 120c. The length of the reinforcing pipe 140 is, for example, 165 mm. When the upper end of the reinforcing pipe 140 is inserted into the support post 120c, it extends partway up the flexible portion of the support post 120c. That is, the reinforcing pipe 140 reaches above the upper end of the coupling portion 121 (the flexible portion), but does not reach the lower end of the other coupling portion 123. By inserting the reinforcing pipe 140, it is prevented that the flexible pipe 122c will remain bent near the upper end of the coupling portion 121 and will not return to its original shape. As a result, the support post 120c maintains a force (a pulling force via the connecting belt 130) that guides the dog's direction of movement when the dog walks.

[0030] The weight of the base 110 used in the animal walking guidance device 100 is determined according to the weight of the dog being exercised. For example, the base 110 for small dogs weighs 2.5 kg, the base 110 for medium-sized dogs weighs 5.0 kg, and the base 110 for large dogs weighs 10.0 kg.

[0031] Figure 5 shows an example of weight plates of different weights. Figure 5(A) is a front view of the animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs. Figure 5(B) is a front view of the animal walking guidance device 100b for large dogs.

[0032] The animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs uses two weight plates 111a and 112a, each weighing 1.25 kg. In the case of the animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs, because the weight plates 111a and 112a are small, the bearing portion 126 and the coupling portion 121 are exposed outside the base 110a.

[0033] The animal walking guidance device 100b for large dogs uses two weight plates 111b and 112b, each weighing 5.0 kg. In the case of the animal walking guidance device 100b for large dogs, the size of the weight plates 111b and 112b is large, so the bearing part 126 is hidden inside the base 110b, but the coupling part 121 is exposed outside the base 110b.

[0034] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of an animal walking guidance device for small dogs. Figure 6 shows the A-A' cross-section of the animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs shown in Figure 5. The weight plates 111a and 112a have a diameter of 159 mm and a thickness of 22.9 mm. The diameter of the holes 113 and 114 in the center of the weight plates 111a and 112a is 50 mm.

[0035] The bearing section 126 fitted into holes 113 and 114 has an outer diameter of 50 mm and an inner diameter of 47 mm. The bearings 127 and 128 fixed inside the bearing section 126 have an outer diameter of 47 mm and an inner diameter of 30 mm. In the example in Figure 6, the bearings 127 and 128 are ball bearings, and spherical rotating bodies 127a and 128a are fitted inside the bearings 127 and 128 in a manner that allows them to rotate smoothly.

[0036] The lower cylindrical portion 121a of the coupling portion 121 is fitted inside the bearings 127 and 128. The outer diameter of the lower cylindrical portion 121a is 30 mm. A flexible pipe 122a with an outer diameter of 30.5 mm is fitted into the upper cylindrical portion 121b of the coupling portion 121.

[0037] Thus, the weight plates 111a and 112a of the animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs have a combined thickness of only 45.8 mm. Therefore, the bearing section 126, which is 50 mm high, protrudes slightly above the base 110a, as shown in Figure 5. Most of the area around the bearing section 126 is surrounded by the base 110a, so even if the bearing section 126 is subjected to a lateral force, the bearing section 126 will not tilt.

[0038] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of an animal walking guidance device for large dogs. Figure 7 shows the B-B' cross-section of the animal walking guidance device 100b for large dogs shown in Figure 5. The weight plates 111b and 112b have a diameter of 224 mm and a thickness of 35.6 mm.

[0039] The inner diameter of the lower cylindrical portion 121a of the coupling portion 121 is 22 mm. A reinforcing pipe 140 with an outer diameter of 22 mm is inserted inside the lower cylindrical portion 121a of the coupling portion 121. The inner diameter of the reinforcing pipe 140 is 19-20 mm. The dimensions of the other components are the same as those of the animal walking guidance device 100a for small dogs shown in Figure 6.

[0040] As described above, the weight plates 111b and 112b of the animal walking guidance device 100b for large dogs have a combined thickness of 71.2 mm. Therefore, the bearing section 126, which is 50 mm high, is hidden inside the base 110b as shown in Figure 5 and is not visible from the outside. In this case, the entire perimeter of the bearing section 126 is surrounded by the base 110b, so even if the bearing section 126 is subjected to a strong lateral force by the strength of a large dog, the bearing section 126 will not tilt.

[0041] Next, we will describe an example of how to use the animal walking guidance device 100. Figure 8 shows an example of a dog's walking behavior using an animal walking guidance device. Dog 1, receiving exercise assistance, is placed in a four-wheeled wheelchair 2. The wheelchair 2 supports the dog's weight with belts or a seat. The wheelchair 2 is also able to move mainly in the forward and backward directions using its four tires. The two front wheels of the wheelchair 2 may be casters that rotate using bearings.

[0042] The connecting belt 130 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is connected to a buckle provided on the wheelchair 2. The buckle on the wheelchair 2 is connected, for example, to the uppermost part (shoulder) of the dog 1's forelegs.

[0043] When dog 1 starts walking and moves a certain distance away from the animal walking guidance device 100, the support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 bends. A force corresponding to the amount of bending of the support column 120 pulls the front part of wheelchair 2 toward the animal walking guidance device 100 via the connecting belt 130. As a result, a force toward the animal walking guidance device 100 is added to the force with which dog 1 moves forward. In other words, the animal walking guidance device 100 guides dog 1 to walk along a circle. As a result, dog 1 moves diagonally forward. As this guidance continues, dog 1, attempting to walk forward, will circle around the animal walking guidance device 100.

[0044] For example, the animal walking guidance device 100 pulls the dog towards the center of a circle if the dog attempts to move out of the circumference of a circle of a predetermined radius. The force with which the animal walking guidance device 100 pulls the dog 1 increases as the distance the dog 1 moves outside the predetermined circumference increases. In other words, abrupt fluctuations in the force pulling the dog 1 are suppressed, and the dog's walking movement is not hindered. As a result, autonomous walking of the dog 1 can be promoted.

[0045] Furthermore, the rotational friction of the support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is minimized by bearings 127 and 128. As a result, the burden on the dog 1 circling the animal walking guidance device 100 is minimized. In addition, the use of two bearings 127 and 128 ensures that the support column 120 is firmly supported even through the bearings 127 and 128. It should be noted that if a bearing of sufficient height (for example, a roller bearing) is used, it is also possible to support the column 120 with a single bearing.

[0046] The height of the support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is determined according to the size of the dog 1 being assisted. For example, if the dog performing the walking exercise is an elderly miniature dachshund (weighing about 3 kg), an animal walking guidance device 100 of the height suitable for small dogs will be used.

[0047] Figure 9 shows an example of the relationship between the height of the support column of an animal walking guidance device and the height of the dog's shoulder. The height of dog 1's shoulder is h s Let h be a positive real number. The height (pivot height) of the buckle collar 124 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is h a Let h be a positive real number. In this case, it is appropriate to set the support height to be around the shoulder of dog 1 (0.8 to 2.0 times the shoulder height). s and the support height h a The relationship can be expressed as follows: (1) h a =a × h s (0.8 ≤ a ≤ 2.0) ···(1)

[0048] In other words, the height of the locking part (buckle collar 124) of the support column 120 from the bottom surface of the base 110 should be within the range of 0.8 times or more and 2.0 times or less the shoulder height of a dog that is permissible to be used as a walking guide (the entire range of permissible heights). Because the pivot point height is near the shoulder of the dog 1, when the dog 1 is about to move away from the animal walking guide device 100 by a predetermined distance (0.75 m in the example of Figure 9), a tension T (a positive real number) acts near the front wheels of the wheelchair 2 in the direction of the animal walking guide device 100. The tension T is a reaction force to the component of the dog 1's self-force pulling force that moves it away from the animal walking guide device 100.

[0049] Figure 10 shows an example of a force acting on a dog. In Figure 10, the connecting belt 130 between the animal walking guidance device 100 and the dog 1 is taut. The dog 1 is moving with a traction force F(N) in a direction perpendicular to the straight line connecting the animal walking guidance device 100 and the dog 1 (downward in Figure 10).

[0050] In this case, the animal walking guidance device 100 pulls the vicinity of the front wheel of the wheelchair 2 on which the dog 1 is sitting in the direction of the animal walking guidance device 100 with the tension T. As a result, the traveling direction of the dog 1 becomes the direction of the resultant force of the traction force F (positive real number) and the tension T.

[0051] The animal walking guidance device 100 is required to have sufficient weight so that it will not be dragged even when receiving the tension T from the dog 1. Let the weight of the animal walking guidance device 100 be m b (positive real number), the coefficient of friction of the floor (or ground) be μ, and the gravitational acceleration be g (m / s 2 ). When this is the case, the condition for the animal walking guidance device 100 not to slip is expressed by the following formula (2). T ≦ μ × m b × g ···(2)

[0052] The coefficient of friction μ is about 0.3 to 0.5 in the case of flooring. Also, if the dog 1 with weak legs and waist is pulled horizontally with a strong force, the dog 1's willingness to walk will decline. Therefore, it is appropriate to suppress the tension T to such an extent that it does not impose an excessive burden on the dog 1 (a strength gentle to the dog 1 according to the weight of the dog 1). Since the tension T depends on the radius of the circle along which the dog 1 walks, it can be adjusted by the length of the towrope (connecting belt 130). Let the weight of the dog 1 be m d (positive real number), and when the pulling ratio k gentle to an old dog is set, the condition for not imposing an excessive burden on the dog 1 is expressed by the following formula (2). T ≦ k × m d × g ···(3)

[0053] The pulling ratio k gentle to an old dog is 0.24 or less. For the animal walking guidance device 100 not to slip even with the maximum value of the tension T "k × m d × g" that does not impose an excessive burden on the dog 1, it is sufficient if the following formula (4) is satisfied. k × m d × g ≦ μ × m b × g ···(4)

[0054] Based on formula (4), the following formula (5) is derived. m b ≧ (k / μ) m d ···(5) The animal walking guidance device 100 only needs to have a weight that satisfies equation (5). When considering the case where the animal walking guidance device 100 is used on slippery indoor flooring (μ=0.3), the appropriate weight is expressed by equation (6). m b ≈b × m d (0.8 ≤ b) ···(6)

[0055] Most of the weight of the animal walking guidance device 100 is the weight of the base 110. In other words, the weight of the base 110 should be at least 0.8 times the weight of the dog that is permitted to be used for walking guidance (the entire range of permitted weight). Functionally, there is no upper limit to the weight for walking guidance. By combining an animal walking guidance device 100 with sufficient weight according to the weight of the dog 1 to be assisted, with a support column 120 of a length appropriate to the size of the dog 1, the walking of the dog 1 can be appropriately assisted. Specifically, a portion of the pulling force of the dog 1 can be released laterally, allowing the dog 1 to perform a turning motion. Being able to perform a stable turning motion in a narrow space allows the dog 1 to walk continuously for a long period of time. As a result, it becomes possible to suppress the muscle weakness of the dog 1 whose leg muscles are deteriorating.

[0056] In particular, because the pivot point is at approximately the shoulder height of dog 1, the direction of tension T becomes closer to horizontal. This reduces the distribution of force in directions that hinder walking, improving turning ability. As a result, turning movements can be assisted without hindering dog 1's desire to walk.

[0057] For example, if the height of the animal walking guidance device 100 is too high, the tension T will be an upward, diagonal force pulling the dog 1 to the side. In this case, if the dog 1 is about to move beyond a predetermined distance from the animal walking guidance device 100, it may lose its footing and its legs may spin freely. If the legs spin freely even when the dog tries to walk, the dog 1's motivation to walk will be diminished. Also, if the height of the animal walking guidance device 100 is too low, the tension T will be an downward, diagonal force pulling the dog 1 to the side. In this case, if the dog 1 is about to move beyond a predetermined distance from the animal walking guidance device 100, the tension T may cause the wheelchair 2 to be pulled over towards the animal walking guidance device 100. If the wheelchair 2 is pulled over by the dog 1 walking even once, the dog 1 may perceive this as dangerous and refuse to walk again.

[0058] Furthermore, because the base 110 is cylindrical, the contact surface of the animal walking guidance device 100 (the underside of the base 110) is circular. This allows the animal walking guidance device 100 to withstand the same amount of force to tip over, regardless of the direction in which it is pulled. Therefore, the weight of the base 110 can be minimized.

[0059] Furthermore, the support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is flexible and bends in accordance with the force exerted by the dog 1. The degree of deflection (the inclination of the cylindrical part of the buckle collar 124 from the vertical) is adjusted to, for example, about 10° to 20°. By using such a flexible support column 120, abrupt changes in tension T can be suppressed.

[0060] Figure 11 shows an example of tension change. Figure 11(A) is a graph 11 showing the change in tension T over time when using a non-flexible (highly rigid) support. Figure 11(B) is a graph 12 showing the change in tension T over time when using a flexible (flexible) support. In graphs 11 and 12, the horizontal axis is time and the vertical axis is tension T.

[0061] As shown in Graph 11, if the support post is not flexible, a large tension T is suddenly generated when dog 1 moves beyond a predetermined distance from the post. This may remind dog 1 of the experience of having its leash pulled hard and repeatedly during walks. Dog 1, recognizing that being pulled hard and repeatedly on the leash is a command to stop the current behavior, will stop walking.

[0062] On the other hand, as shown in Graph 12, if the tension T changes gradually, dog 1 perceives it as merely a correction in direction due to the leash being lightly pulled during a walk. As a result, dog 1 can maintain the sensation of walking forward. Consequently, dog 1 can continue walking without stress. In other words, autonomous walking in dog 1 is promoted.

[0063] Furthermore, if the radius of the circle around which dog 1 circles is small, the lateral tension T will act continuously with a force above a certain level. In this case as well, a flexible support column will suppress the maximum value of the tension T, and the range of fluctuation in the tension T will also be small. By using the animal walking guidance device 100 to continuously pull dog 1 laterally with a tension T that does not change significantly, dog 1 can circle smoothly even with a small radius.

[0064] The animal walking guidance device 100 according to the first embodiment is useful as an aid for walking exercise, such as walking training for elderly dogs. For example, by placing the animal walking guidance device 100 indoors in a typical home and connecting the elderly dog's wheelchair to the device, it becomes easier to guide the elderly dog ​​to walk. Furthermore, not only for elderly dogs, but also by installing the animal walking guidance device 100 in medical, nursing, and animal shelter facilities, it is possible to guide dogs whose ability to walk has weakened due to injury or illness to walk using the animal walking guidance device 100.

[0065] Furthermore, the flexibility of the support column 120 helps to prevent injuries caused by people coming into contact with the animal walking guidance device 100. For example, when the animal walking guidance device 100 is used indoors, people may pass near it. In this case, for example, a person trying to step over the connecting belt 130 may fall. If the animal walking guidance device 100 uses a rigid support column, there is a possibility of injury if a person falls onto the animal walking guidance device 100. On the other hand, if the animal walking guidance device 100 uses a flexible support column, the column will bend even if a person falls onto it, reducing the risk of injury.

[0066] As described above, the animal walking guidance device 100 has a base 110 with holes 113 and 114 in the center, and a support column 120 that is fitted into the holes 113 and 114 and erected on the base 110. At least a portion of the support column 120 is flexible. The support column 120 has a locking part (for example, a collar with a buckle 124) above the flexible portion to which a leash (for example, a connecting belt 130) extending from a wheelchair for assisting the walking of the dog to be guided can be attached. The locking part is rotatable relative to the base 110. This makes it possible to make the dog 1 move in a circular motion with a certain radius. In other words, it can assist the dog 1 in sustained walking movement on its own in a limited space.

[0067] The support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 is fitted into holes 113 and 114 of the base 110 via bearings 127 and 128. This reduces the resistance to rotating the locking part, thereby reducing the burden on the dog 1.

[0068] Specifically, the support column 120 of the animal walking guidance device 100 has a bearing section 126 fitted into holes 113 and 114 of the base 110. Inside the bearing section 126 are two bearings 127 and 128. Inside the bearings 127 and 128 is the lower part of a cylindrical coupling section 121. A flexible pipe (flexible pipe 122) is fitted to the upper part of the coupling section 121. By providing the two bearings 127 and 128 at the base of the support column 120, the locking part of the support column 120 can rotate smoothly even when a lateral force is applied to it.

[0069] As shown in Figure 4, the animal walking guidance device 100 for large dogs further includes a reinforcing pipe 140 that is inserted inside the support column 120c for large dogs. After insertion, the reinforcing pipe 140 extends partway up the flexible portion of the support column 120c. This prevents the long support column 120c from bending sideways and not returning to its original shape.

[0070] The locking mechanism of the support post 120 is, for example, a first buckle (male buckle 132) and a detachable second buckle (female buckle 124a) provided at one end of the tow rope. These buckles allow the tow rope to be easily connected.

[0071] The base 110 of the animal walking guidance device 100 consists of one or more stacked disc-shaped weight plates 111, 112. Because the bottom surface of the base 110 is circular, the same lateral resistance is maintained regardless of the direction in which the locking mechanism is pulled. As a result, the animal walking guidance device 100 is prevented from tipping over, thus preventing the dog 1 from being hindered in its movement.

[0072] [Second Embodiment] As shown in Figures 3 and 6, in the first embodiment, the bearings 127 and 128 have the function of allowing the support column 120 to rotate relative to the base 110. Because the support column 120 is rotatable, the female buckle 124a of the buckled collar 124 can always be positioned facing the direction of the dog 1. As a result, even if the dog 1 circles around the animal walking guidance device 100, the connecting belt 130 that connects the animal walking guidance device 100 and the wheelchair 2 will not become entangled.

[0073] To prevent the connecting belt 130 from becoming entangled, the buckle-equipped collar 124 should be rotatable relative to the base 110. For example, the buckle-equipped collar 124 may be made rotatable relative to the support column 120. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the connecting belt 130 is prevented from becoming entangled by providing a bearing at the top.

[0074] Figure 12 shows an example of an animal walking guidance device with a bearing mounted on top. The animal walking guidance device 200 has at least a base 210, a flexible pipe 221, a coupling section 222, a bearing 223, and a collar with a buckle 224.

[0075] The base 210 has sufficient weight and base area to prevent it from being dragged or tipping over even if the buckled collar 224 is pulled laterally by the dog 1. The base 210 is, for example, a cement block. The top of the base 210 has a hole with the same diameter as the outer diameter of the flexible pipe 221. The flexible pipe 221 is fitted and secured into the hole in the base 210.

[0076] The inner ring of a bearing 223 is fixed to the upper end of the flexible pipe 221 via a coupling portion 222. A collar 224 with a buckle is fixed to the outer ring of the bearing 223.

[0077] The buckle-equipped collar 224 is attached to the coupling section 222 via the bearing 223, allowing it to rotate freely relative to the base 210. Therefore, even if the dog 1 circles around the animal walking guidance device 200, the connecting belt 130 will not become entangled.

[0078] Furthermore, since the bearing 223 is provided on the upper end side of the flexible pipe 221, there are fewer constraints on the superstructure of the base 210, and the degree of freedom in the material that can be used as the base 210 is increased. For example, a cement block decorated to resemble brick can be used as the base 210. The hole provided in the base 210, such as a cement block, may be a through hole or a hole that goes partway (has a bottom).

[0079] [Other embodiments] The animal walking guidance devices 100, 200 shown in the first or second embodiment can be installed not only indoors but also outdoors. For example, by installing the animal walking guidance device 100, 200 in the garden, dog 1 can exercise outdoors. If dog 1 enjoys walks, going outdoors will increase its motivation to walk, enabling more efficient exercise.

[0080] Furthermore, the height of the bearing portion 126 of the animal walking guidance device 100 may be set to a length corresponding to the size of the dog 1 intended to be assisted. However, if the base 110 is made of two weight plates stacked on top of each other, it is desirable that the height of the bearing portion 126 be at least a predetermined value (for example, 0.5 mm) greater than the thickness of one of the weight plates 111, 112. For example, in the case of the animal walking guidance device 100 for small dogs shown in Figure 6, the height of the bearing portion 126 may be about 30 mm. This prevents lateral displacement of the upper weight plate 112.

[0081] In the above embodiment, an example was shown where the animal to be guided to walk was a dog, but the animal walking guidance devices 100 and 200 can also be used to guide the walking of other animals as long as they are quadrupedal.

[0082] Although embodiments have been illustrated above, the configurations of each part shown in the embodiments can be replaced with others having similar functions. Furthermore, other arbitrary components or processes may be added. Moreover, any two or more configurations (features) from the embodiments described above may be combined. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0083] 100 Animal walking guidance devices 110 Pedestal 120 Posts 121,123 Coupling section 122 Flexible pipe 124 buckle collar 125 Cap 130 Connecting belt

Claims

1. A base with a hole in the center, A support column that is fitted into the aforementioned hole and erected on the base, and at least a portion of it is flexible, It has, The support column is provided with a locking section above the flexible portion, to which a leash extending from a wheelchair used to assist the walking of an animal being guided can be attached. The locking portion is configured to be rotatable with respect to the base. Animal walking guidance device.

2. The support column is rotatably supported relative to the base via a bearing. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned support column is A bearing portion that fits into the hole in the base, A bearing arranged within the aforementioned bearing portion, The lower part is a cylindrical coupling portion fitted onto the inner ring of the bearing, A flexible pipe fitted to the upper side of the coupling portion, Having, The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

4. The support column further includes a reinforcing pipe that is inserted into the interior of the support column, and whose upper end after insertion extends to partway through the flexible portion of the support column. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

5. The locking portion is a second buckle that is detachable from a first buckle provided at one end of the pull rope. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

6. The support column has a bearing mounted above the flexible portion, and the locking portion is fixed to the outer ring of the bearing. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

7. The height of the locking portion from the bottom surface of the base is within the range of 0.8 times or more and 2.0 times or less the shoulder height of an animal that is permitted to be used as a walking guide. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

8. The weight of the aforementioned pedestal is at least 0.8 times the weight of the animal permitted to be used as a walking guide. The animal walking guidance device according to claim 1.

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