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EP0664141B1 - Helping device for foot movement - Google Patents

Helping device for foot movement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0664141B1
EP0664141B1 EP19950490001 EP95490001A EP0664141B1 EP 0664141 B1 EP0664141 B1 EP 0664141B1 EP 19950490001 EP19950490001 EP 19950490001 EP 95490001 A EP95490001 A EP 95490001A EP 0664141 B1 EP0664141 B1 EP 0664141B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
footrest
oscillation
axis
feet
oscillation axis
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP19950490001
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0664141A1 (en
Inventor
Richard Wrighton
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
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Publication of EP0664141A1 publication Critical patent/EP0664141A1/en
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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C16/00—Stand-alone rests or supports for feet, legs, arms, back or head
    • A47C16/02—Footstools; Foot-rests; Leg-rests
    • A47C16/025—Footstools; Foot-rests; Leg-rests adjustable, swivelling, rocking
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
    • A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
    • A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
    • A63B23/035—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously
    • A63B23/04—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs
    • A63B23/08—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for limbs, i.e. upper or lower limbs, e.g. simultaneously for lower limbs for ankle joints

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device for assisting the movement of the feet, intended in particular to promote the circulation of blood in the lower limbs, in particular for people who have difficulty walking or who are physically unable to walk. walk.
  • Document FR.A.2 490 967 has also proposed a pedal device of simpler basic design which requires an active movement of flexion-extension of the articulation of the foot, while the movement of the knee is maintained very weak and the hip is almost completely at rest.
  • This device consists of a base inclined in a plane towards the user, on which are rotatably mounted, by their lower ends, two pedals practically parallel to each other provided, at their lower part, with elastic means which push them, so continues, to a lower position.
  • the goal that the applicant has set is to propose a simplified device which allows the user to carry out the flexion movement - extension of the articulation of the foot, without any external constraint.
  • the device for moving the feet of the invention comprises in a known manner from the aforementioned documents a chassis, suitable for being placed on a work surface, and at least one housing for the feet, which is mounted to oscillate around an axis.
  • the axis of oscillation of the housing is located in an area which corresponds substantially to the axis of articulation of the two feet of the user in position in the housing, the more the housing is secured to the chassis, according to said oscillation axis, at a height such that there is no contact with the work surface when the housing oscillates around its axis.
  • the housing is somehow suspended from the axis of oscillation like a swing.
  • the feet rest only on the housing which can oscillate freely, without constraint, around its axis. Due to the location of the axis of oscillation of the housing according to the zone of the axis of articulation of the two feet when they are placed in the housing, it is understood that the movement of the foot thanks to the device of the invention will not cause any difficulty for the user.
  • the housing being constituted by a bottom for the sole of the foot, a rear upright forming a rim for heel and two lateral uprights, each lateral upright is secured to the chassis by a rod forming an axis of oscillation.
  • the bottom is composed of several transverse, individual plates, the two ends of which are fixed to the lateral uprights and which are angularly offset and are shaped according to the general natural shape of the sole of the foot.
  • This particular arrangement allows a better fit of the device to the feet of the user and provides better comfort during its use.
  • the rear upright is advantageously inclined relative to the general direction of the bottom, by an angle of the order of 100 to 130 °. This avoids any possible crushing of the Achilles tendon when the foot is extended.
  • the chassis providing the seat of the device on the work surface is made up of a U-shaped frame, the lateral branches of which have a step in height for fixing the axis of rotation and the central branch of which is opposite the rear part of the housing, in the operating position.
  • a frame can advantageously be produced by molding a thermoplastic material.
  • the device of the invention may have only one housing for both feet; in this case the oscillation movement is identical for both feet.
  • This very simple version can be recommended for people with specific problems on a given leg, the valid leg can cause movement of the other foot.
  • It can also include two housings, one for each leg, each housing oscillating independently of the other along the same axis of oscillation.
  • the chassis which comprises a U-shaped frame, also comprises an intermediate branch, mounted inside the U, equidistant from the two lateral branches plus the axis of oscillation of a housing. given is fixed to the step in height on the one hand of the middle branch and on the other hand of a lateral branch.
  • the device for assisting the movement of the feet of the invention may also include at least one protective coating for the feet, for example in a textile material, capable of coming to fit on or around the housing.
  • the protective covering which fits over the housing, acts as a sort of slipper, integrated into the device.
  • it may include means for driving the axis or axes of oscillation in oscillation.
  • the device 1 for assisting the movement of the feet which is shown in FIG. 1 is a simplified version in which the two feet will be animated together with the same movement.
  • This device 1 comprises a frame 2 which must ensure the stability of the device when it rests on the work surface 3.
  • This frame 2 must also serve as a support for the housing 4 for the feet of the user. More precisely, this housing 4 is mounted oscillating with respect to the frame 2, along a common axis of oscillation D.
  • the frame 2 has a general U-shape, with two lateral branches 2 a and 2 b and a central branch 2 c .
  • Each of the two lateral branches 2 a , 2 b has a step in height 2 d , which, in the example illustrated, has the shape of an isosceles triangle with the vertex which is opposite the work plane 3 .
  • the housing 4 has a bottom 5, two lateral edges 6, 7 and a rear edge 8.
  • the rear edge 8 keeps the user's foot at the heels in the housing 4.
  • the two lateral flanges 6, 7 of the housing 4 are secured to the two lateral uprights 2 a , 2 b of the frame 2 by systems of rods and rivets not shown, which are mounted towards the upper end of the elevations 2 d of the uprights lateral 2 a , 2 b , aligned with each other, along the axis of oscillation D.
  • the bottom 5 of the housing 4 is preferably made up of transverse plates, 5 a , 5 b , 5 c , from the front to the rear of the housing, in consideration of the position of the user. Said transverse plates are separated from each other. They are fixed at their two ends to the side edges 6, 7.
  • Each transverse plate 5 a , 5 b , 5 c is moreover angularly offset with respect to the general direction of the bottom 5, so as to conform as perfectly as possible to the natural shape of the soles of the user's feet, when those these are in position in the housing 4.
  • the frame 2 and the housing 4 are advantageously made by molding in a thermoplastic material.
  • the operation of the foot movement aid device is as follows.
  • the user is preferably seated, barefoot, or feet in socks. It has its two feet next to each other in the housing 4 so that its heels are applied to the rear edge 8.
  • the implementation of the device is done at the discretion of the user, by simple tilting of the housing 4 relative to the axis of oscillation D. This tilting of the housing 4 and therefore of the feet of the user causes a movement of extension and retraction of the leg muscles which activates blood circulation.
  • FIG. 3 shows the position taken by the foot 9 during tilting of the housing 4 towards the front, that is to say during the movement of the foot corresponding to an extension.
  • FIG. 4 shows the position taken by the foot 9 during the tilting of the housing 4 towards the rear, which corresponds to the retraction movement of the foot 9.
  • the leg itself 10 retains the same position in the two movements of extension and retraction of the foot: only the foot 9 moves.
  • the position of the axis of oscillation D has been determined relative to the housing 4 so that this axis of oscillation D is in the zone which corresponds substantially, for the two feet 9, to the axes of articulation of the foot c that is to say substantially at the level of the malleoli of the tibia and the fibula.
  • This is a necessary condition so that the movement of the feet, which is achieved by means of the device 1 by the swinging around the axis of oscillation D, is as natural as possible, reproducing the movement of the ankles, without displacement of the legs. back and forth.
  • the housing 4 must be at a sufficient height relative to the axis of oscillation D so that there is no contact between said housing 4 and the worktop 3 at any time.
  • a device 1 has been produced which is suitable for a large majority of users, with the following configuration.
  • the height H of the axis of oscillation D relative to the work plane is of the order of 110 mm.
  • the distance L from the axis of oscillation D to the rear edge 8 is of the order of 85 mm.
  • the distance l from the axis of oscillation D to the general direction of the bottom 5 is of the order of 60 mm.
  • FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a device 11 for assisting the movement of the feet on which the movement of each foot is independent.
  • This device 11 is particular compared to that which has just been described by the fact that it has two housings 12, 13, one for each leg, said housings being mounted oscillating with respect to the same axis of oscillation D.
  • the frame 14, which has the same U-shaped configuration as the previous frame 2 has a middle branch 15, with a step in height, of triangular shape.
  • the housings 12, 13 are secured to the frame 14 by rod / rivet systems, not shown, which are mounted at the upper ends of the notches in height of the lateral uprights 14 a , 14 b and of the median upright 15, as is clearly seen on the figure 2.
  • the housings 12, 13 are adapted to the natural configuration of the base. Their bottom is also composed of three transverse plates which can have a slightly curved shape.
  • the rear part of the housing includes not only the rear flange 16 on which the heel rests, but also a transverse plate, arranged more in height, forming a rear extension 17.
  • the rim 16 is inclined relative to the general direction F of the bottom by an angle a which is of the order of 110 to 130 °.
  • the rear extension 17 is also inclined in the same direction, with respect to the rear edge 16. This arrangement is understandable on examination of FIG. 3.
  • the rear extension 17 makes it possible to support the foot during the extension movement.
  • the position of the rear extension 17 is such that it does not cause contact with the work surface 3 during the retraction movement of the foot, as illustrated in FIG. 4.
  • the user can carry out any movement of the feet simultaneously and with the same rocking as was the case of the device 1 with a single housing or alternatively simultaneous movements of the two feet or to movements involving only one foot at a time, the other being at rest.
  • the invention is not limited to the embodiment which has just been described by way of example. It is also understood that the operation which has just been described while the user was in a seated position, can also extend to persons having a lying position. It suffices for this to secure the device so as to avoid any sliding, during use, on the work surface.
  • the device can also be equipped with a protective coating, in particular in a textile material, making it possible to protect the feet of the user during use.
  • a protective coating in particular in a textile material, making it possible to protect the feet of the user during use.
  • this coating of use just fits on or around the housing so as to integrate with it. It surrounds the user's foot to form an envelope, protecting the foot in particular from the cold, like a slipper or a heater.
  • the primary goal sought by the applicant is to propose a simplified device, allowing the user to spontaneously perform simple movements of the ankles, it is nevertheless possible to match the device of the invention with complementary means making it possible to assist the user in the practice of these movements.
  • complementary means may for example consist of means for oscillating the rods mounted on the axis of oscillation of the device, so that the housing or the housings are driven in a rocking movement at a predetermined angle of oscillation. and according to a frequency also predetermined. Under these conditions, the device of the invention becomes a medical exerciser.
  • Said additional means can, in another example, consist of means for braking the housings during their rocking, forcing the user to exert a certain pressure to carry out said movements.

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  • Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
  • General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
  • Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
  • Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
  • Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un dispositif d'aide au mouvement des pieds, destiné notamment à favoriser la circulation du sang dans les membres inférieurs, en particulier pour les personnes ayant des difficultés à marcher ou étant dans l'incapacité matérielle d'effectuer de la marche à pied.The present invention relates to a device for assisting the movement of the feet, intended in particular to promote the circulation of blood in the lower limbs, in particular for people who have difficulty walking or who are physically unable to walk. walk.

On sait de manière générale qu'il est bénéfique pour la santé de faire de l'exercice. Il est recommandé pour les personnes sédentaires de pratiquer régulièrement la marche à pied. S'agissant plus précisément de personnes ayant matériellement des problèmes pour sortir de chez elles ou ayant des difficultés à marcher, il serait utile néanmoins de pouvoir pratiquer cet exercice physique chez elles.We generally know that it is beneficial for health to exercise. It is recommended for sedentary people to practice walking regularly. More specifically, as regards people having material problems getting out of their homes or having difficulty walking, it would nevertheless be useful to be able to practice this physical exercise at home.

On a déjà proposé par le document FR.A. 2 355 527 un exerciseur médical pour la mobilité des jambes qui est de nature à permettre à un patient d'exercer les muscles des jambes, en état couché sur le ventre ou assis, par flexion dorsale et plantaire, en imitant ainsi les actions musculaires impliqués par la marche normale. Cet exerciseur comprend une embase et un mécanisme à deux pédales montées de manière à décrire un mouvement de va-et-vient alterné sur l'embase ainsi que des moyens amortisseurs conçus pour freiner le fonctionnement du mécanisme à pédales.Document FR.A. has already proposed. 2,355,527 a medical exercise device for leg mobility which is such as to enable a patient to exercise the leg muscles, lying on their stomach or sitting, by dorsal and plantar flexion, thus imitating the muscular actions involved by normal walking. This exerciser comprises a base and a mechanism with two pedals mounted so as to describe an alternating back-and-forth movement on the base as well as damping means designed to slow down the operation of the pedal mechanism.

On a aussi proposé par le document FR.A.2 490 967 un appareil à pédales de conception de base plus simple qui oblige à effectuer un mouvement actif de flexion-extension de l'articulation du pied, pendant que le mouvement de genou est maintenu très faible et que la hanche est pratiquement au repos total. Cet appareil est constitué d'un socle incliné selon un plan vers l'usager, sur lequel sont montées rotatives, par leurs extrémités inférieures, deux pédales pratiquement parallèles entre elles munies, à leur partie inférieure, de moyens élastiques qui les poussent, de façon continue, vers une position inférieure.Document FR.A.2 490 967 has also proposed a pedal device of simpler basic design which requires an active movement of flexion-extension of the articulation of the foot, while the movement of the knee is maintained very weak and the hip is almost completely at rest. This device consists of a base inclined in a plane towards the user, on which are rotatably mounted, by their lower ends, two pedals practically parallel to each other provided, at their lower part, with elastic means which push them, so continues, to a lower position.

Dans les deux appareils connus précités, l'usager est contraint d'exercer une certaine pression sur la pédale pour effectuer le mouvement de pédalage.In the two aforementioned known devices, the user is forced to exert a certain pressure on the pedal to effect the pedaling movement.

Le but que s'est fixé le demandeur est de proposer un dispositif simplifié qui permette à l'usager de réaliser le mouvement de flexion - extension de l'articulation du pied, sans aucune contrainte extérieure.The goal that the applicant has set is to propose a simplified device which allows the user to carry out the flexion movement - extension of the articulation of the foot, without any external constraint.

Ce but est parfaitement atteint par le dispositif de mise en mouvement des pieds de l'invention. Il comprend de manière connue par les documents précités un châssis, apte à être posé sur un plan de travail, et au moins un logement pour les pieds, qui est monté pour osciller autour d'un axe. De manière caractéristique, l'axe d'oscillation du logement est situé dans une zone qui correspond sensiblement à l'axe d'articulation des deux pieds de l'usager en position dans le logement de plus le logement est solidarisé au châssis, selon ledit axe d'oscillation, à une hauteur telle qu'il n'y a aucun contact avec le plan de travail lors de l'oscillation du logement autour de son axe.This object is perfectly achieved by the device for moving the feet of the invention. It comprises in a known manner from the aforementioned documents a chassis, suitable for being placed on a work surface, and at least one housing for the feet, which is mounted to oscillate around an axis. Typically, the axis of oscillation of the housing is located in an area which corresponds substantially to the axis of articulation of the two feet of the user in position in the housing, the more the housing is secured to the chassis, according to said oscillation axis, at a height such that there is no contact with the work surface when the housing oscillates around its axis.

Ainsi le logement se trouve en quelque sorte suspendu à l'axe d'oscillation à l'instar d'une balançoire. Les pieds reposent uniquement sur le logement qui peut osciller librement, sans contrainte, autour de son axe. Du fait de la localisation de l'axe d'oscillation du logement selon la zone de l'axe d'articulation des deux pieds lorsqu'ils sont placés dans le logement, on comprend que le mouvement du pied grâce au dispositif de l'invention n'entraînera aucune difficulté pour l'usager.Thus the housing is somehow suspended from the axis of oscillation like a swing. The feet rest only on the housing which can oscillate freely, without constraint, around its axis. Due to the location of the axis of oscillation of the housing according to the zone of the axis of articulation of the two feet when they are placed in the housing, it is understood that the movement of the foot thanks to the device of the invention will not cause any difficulty for the user.

De préférence, le logement étant constitué d'un fond pour la plante du pied, d'un montant arrière formant rebord pour talon et de deux montants latéraux, chaque montant latéral est solidarisé au châssis par une tige formant axe d'oscillation.Preferably, the housing being constituted by a bottom for the sole of the foot, a rear upright forming a rim for heel and two lateral uprights, each lateral upright is secured to the chassis by a rod forming an axis of oscillation.

Selon une variante préférée de réalisation, le fond est composé de plusieurs plaques transversales, individuelles, dont les deux extrémités sont fixées aux montants latéraux et qui sont décalées angulairement et sont conformées selon la forme naturelle générale de la plante du pied. Cette disposition particulière permet une meilleure adéquation du dispositif aux pieds de l'usager et apporte un meilleur confort lors de son utilisation.According to a preferred alternative embodiment, the bottom is composed of several transverse, individual plates, the two ends of which are fixed to the lateral uprights and which are angularly offset and are shaped according to the general natural shape of the sole of the foot. This particular arrangement allows a better fit of the device to the feet of the user and provides better comfort during its use.

Dans le même esprit d'apporter un meilleur confort, le montant arrière est avantageusement incliné par rapport à la direction générale du fond, d'un angle de l'ordre de 100 à 130°. Ceci évite tout écrasement éventuel du tendon d'Achille lors de l'extension du pied.In the same spirit of providing better comfort, the rear upright is advantageously inclined relative to the general direction of the bottom, by an angle of the order of 100 to 130 °. This avoids any possible crushing of the Achilles tendon when the foot is extended.

De préférence, le châssis réalisant l'assise du dispositif sur le plan de travail est constitué d'un cadre en forme de U, dont les branches latérales présentent un décrochement en hauteur pour la fixation de l'axe de rotation et dont la branche centrale est à l'opposé de la partie arrière du logement, en position de fonctionnement. Un tel châssis peut avantageusement être réalisé par moulage d'un matériau thermoplastique.Preferably, the chassis providing the seat of the device on the work surface is made up of a U-shaped frame, the lateral branches of which have a step in height for fixing the axis of rotation and the central branch of which is opposite the rear part of the housing, in the operating position. Such a frame can advantageously be produced by molding a thermoplastic material.

Le dispositif de l'invention peut ne comporter qu'un seul logement pour les deux pieds; dans ce cas le mouvement d'oscillation est identique pour les deux pieds. Cette version très simple peut être recommandée pour les personnes ayant des problèmes spécifiques sur une jambe donnée, lajambe valide pouvant entraîner le mouvement de l'autre pied.The device of the invention may have only one housing for both feet; in this case the oscillation movement is identical for both feet. This very simple version can be recommended for people with specific problems on a given leg, the valid leg can cause movement of the other foot.

Il peut aussi comporter deux logements, un pour chaque pied, chaque logement oscillant indépendamment de l'autre selon le même axe d'oscillation.It can also include two housings, one for each leg, each housing oscillating independently of the other along the same axis of oscillation.

Dans ce dernier cas, le châssis, qui comporte un cadre en forme de U, comporte également une branche intermédiaire, montée à l'intérieur du U, à égale distance des deux branches latérales de plus l'axe d'oscillation d'un logement donné est fixé au décrochement en hauteur d'une part de la branche médiane et d'autre part d'une branche latérale.In the latter case, the chassis, which comprises a U-shaped frame, also comprises an intermediate branch, mounted inside the U, equidistant from the two lateral branches plus the axis of oscillation of a housing. given is fixed to the step in height on the one hand of the middle branch and on the other hand of a lateral branch.

De manière avantageuse, le dispositif d'aide au mouvement des pieds de l'invention peut également comporter au moins un revêtement de protection pour les pieds, par exemple dans un matériau textile, apte à venir s'adapter sur ou autour du logement. Cette disposition particulière vise plus spécialement le cas où l'usager utilise le dispositif de l'invention alors qu'il a les pieds nus ou simplement chaussés de bas ou chaussettes. Le revêtement de protection, s'adaptant sur le logement, fait office en quelque sorte de pantoufles, intégrées au dispositif.Advantageously, the device for assisting the movement of the feet of the invention may also include at least one protective coating for the feet, for example in a textile material, capable of coming to fit on or around the housing. This particular provision relates more specifically to the case where the user uses the device of the invention when he has bare feet or simply wearing stockings or socks. The protective covering, which fits over the housing, acts as a sort of slipper, integrated into the device.

Il peut éventuellement être intéressant de compléter le dispositif qui vient d'être exposé dans sa conception la plus simple avec des moyens complémentaires susceptibles de transformer ledit dispositif en un véritable exerciseur médical.It may possibly be advantageous to supplement the device which has just been exposed in its simplest design with complementary means capable of transforming said device into a real medical exerciser.

A ce titre, il peut comporter des moyens d'entraînement en oscillation de l'axe ou des axes d'oscillation.As such, it may include means for driving the axis or axes of oscillation in oscillation.

Il peut également comporter des moyens de freinage de l'oscillation du ou des logements.It may also include means for braking the oscillation of the housing or housings.

La présente invention sera mieux comprise à la lecture de la description qui va être faite de deux exemples de réalisation d'un dispositif d'aide au mouvement du pied, illustrés par le dessin annexé dans lequel :

  • La figure 1 est une représentation en perspective d'un dispositif à un seul logement,
  • La figure 2 est une représentation en perspective d'un dispositif à deux logements,
  • Et les figures 3 et 4 sont des représentations schématiques de côté du dispositif lors du mouvement respectivement d'extension du pied pour la figure 3 et de rétraction du pied pour la figure 4.
The present invention will be better understood on reading the description which will be given of two exemplary embodiments of a device for assisting the movement of the foot, illustrated by the appended drawing in which:
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective representation of a device with a single housing,
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective representation of a device with two housings,
  • And FIGS. 3 and 4 are schematic side representations of the device during the movement respectively of extension of the foot for FIG. 3 and retraction of the foot for FIG. 4.

Le dispositif 1 d'aide au mouvement des pieds qui est représenté à la figure 1 est une version simplifiée dans laquelle les deux pieds vont être animés ensemble du même mouvement.The device 1 for assisting the movement of the feet which is shown in FIG. 1 is a simplified version in which the two feet will be animated together with the same movement.

Ce dispositif 1 comporte un cadre 2 qui doit assurer la stabilité du dispositif lorsqu'il repose sur le plan de travail 3.This device 1 comprises a frame 2 which must ensure the stability of the device when it rests on the work surface 3.

Ce cadre 2 doit également servir de support au logement 4 pour les pieds de l'usager. Plus précisément ce logement 4 est monté oscillant par rapport au cadre 2, selon un axe commun d'oscillation D.This frame 2 must also serve as a support for the housing 4 for the feet of the user. More precisely, this housing 4 is mounted oscillating with respect to the frame 2, along a common axis of oscillation D.

Dans l'exemple représenté à la figure 1, le cadre 2 a une forme générale en U, avec deux branches latérales 2a et 2b et une branche centrale 2c. Chacune des deux branches latérales 2a, 2b, comporte un décrochement en hauteur 2d, qui, dans l'exemple illustré, a la forme d'un triangle isocèle avec le sommet qui se trouve à l'opposé du plan de travail 3.In the example shown in FIG. 1, the frame 2 has a general U-shape, with two lateral branches 2 a and 2 b and a central branch 2 c . Each of the two lateral branches 2 a , 2 b , has a step in height 2 d , which, in the example illustrated, has the shape of an isosceles triangle with the vertex which is opposite the work plane 3 .

Le logement 4 comporte un fond 5, deux rebords latéraux 6, 7 et un rebord arrière 8. Le rebord arrière 8 permet de maintenir le pied de l'usager au niveau des talons dans le logement 4.The housing 4 has a bottom 5, two lateral edges 6, 7 and a rear edge 8. The rear edge 8 keeps the user's foot at the heels in the housing 4.

Les deux rebords latéraux 6, 7 du logement 4 sont solidarisés aux deux montants latéraux 2a, 2b du cadre 2 par des systèmes de tiges et rivets non représentés, qui sont montés vers l'extrémité supérieure des décrochements en hauteur 2d des montants latéraux 2a, 2b, dans l'alignement l'un de l'autre, selon l'axe d'oscillation D.The two lateral flanges 6, 7 of the housing 4 are secured to the two lateral uprights 2 a , 2 b of the frame 2 by systems of rods and rivets not shown, which are mounted towards the upper end of the elevations 2 d of the uprights lateral 2 a , 2 b , aligned with each other, along the axis of oscillation D.

Le fond 5 du logement 4 est de préférence constitué de plaques transversales, 5a, 5b, 5c, de l'avant vers l'arrière du logement, en considération de la position de l'usager. Lesdites plaques transversales sont séparées les unes des autres . Elles sont fixées à leurs deux extrémités aux rebords latéraux 6, 7.The bottom 5 of the housing 4 is preferably made up of transverse plates, 5 a , 5 b , 5 c , from the front to the rear of the housing, in consideration of the position of the user. Said transverse plates are separated from each other. They are fixed at their two ends to the side edges 6, 7.

Chaque plaque transversale 5a, 5b, 5c, est de plus décalée angulairement par rapport à la direction générale du fond 5, de manière à épouser le plus parfaitement possible la forme naturelle de la plante des pieds de l'usager, lorsque ceux-ci sont en position dans le logement 4.Each transverse plate 5 a , 5 b , 5 c , is moreover angularly offset with respect to the general direction of the bottom 5, so as to conform as perfectly as possible to the natural shape of the soles of the user's feet, when those these are in position in the housing 4.

Le cadre 2 et le logement 4 sont avantageusement réalisés par moulage dans un matériau thermoplastique.The frame 2 and the housing 4 are advantageously made by molding in a thermoplastic material.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif d'aide au mouvement des pieds est le suivant. L'usager est de préférence assis, à pieds nus, ou les pieds dans des chaussettes. Il dispose ses deux pieds l'un à côté de l'autre dans le logement 4 de manière à ce que ses talons soient appliqués sur le rebord arrière 8.The operation of the foot movement aid device is as follows. The user is preferably seated, barefoot, or feet in socks. It has its two feet next to each other in the housing 4 so that its heels are applied to the rear edge 8.

Lorsqu'il a les pieds posés dans le logement 4, les jambes et les pieds de l'usager sont au repos, décontractés, en équilibre par rapport au dispositif 1.When the feet are placed in the housing 4, the legs and feet of the user are at rest, relaxed, in balance with respect to the device 1.

La mise en oeuvre du dispositif se fait au gré de l'usager, par simple basculement du logement 4 par rapport à l'axe d'oscillation D. Ce basculement du logement 4 et donc des pieds de l'usager provoque un mouvement d'extension et de rétraction des muscles des jambes qui active la circulation du sang.The implementation of the device is done at the discretion of the user, by simple tilting of the housing 4 relative to the axis of oscillation D. This tilting of the housing 4 and therefore of the feet of the user causes a movement of extension and retraction of the leg muscles which activates blood circulation.

On a représenté sur la figure 3 la position prise par le pied 9 lors du basculement du logement 4 vers l'avant c'est-à-dire lors du mouvement du pied correspondant à une extension. On a représenté sur la figure 4 la position prise par le pied 9 lors du basculement du logement 4 vers l'arrière, qui correspond au mouvement en rétraction du pied 9.There is shown in Figure 3 the position taken by the foot 9 during tilting of the housing 4 towards the front, that is to say during the movement of the foot corresponding to an extension. FIG. 4 shows the position taken by the foot 9 during the tilting of the housing 4 towards the rear, which corresponds to the retraction movement of the foot 9.

Comme on peut le constater la jambe elle-même 10 conserve, dans les deux mouvements d'extension et de rétraction du pied, la même position : seul le pied 9 se déplace.As can be seen, the leg itself 10 retains the same position in the two movements of extension and retraction of the foot: only the foot 9 moves.

La position de l'axe d'oscillation D a été déterminée par rapport au logement 4 de telle sorte que cet axe d'oscillation D soit dans la zone qui correspond sensiblement, pour les deux pieds 9, aux axes d'articulation du pied c'est-à-dire sensiblement au niveau des malléoles du tibia et du péroné. Ceci est une condition nécessaire pour que le mouvement des pieds, qui est réalisé grâce au dispositif 1 par le balancement autour de l'axe d'oscillation D, soit le plus naturel possible, reproduisant le mouvement des chevilles, sans déplacement des jambes d'avant en arrière.The position of the axis of oscillation D has been determined relative to the housing 4 so that this axis of oscillation D is in the zone which corresponds substantially, for the two feet 9, to the axes of articulation of the foot c that is to say substantially at the level of the malleoli of the tibia and the fibula. This is a necessary condition so that the movement of the feet, which is achieved by means of the device 1 by the swinging around the axis of oscillation D, is as natural as possible, reproducing the movement of the ankles, without displacement of the legs. back and forth.

De plus le logement 4 doit être à une hauteur suffisante par rapport à l'axe d'oscillation D pour qu'il n'y ait lors de l'utilisation à aucun moment de contact entre ledit logement 4 et le plan de travail 3.In addition, the housing 4 must be at a sufficient height relative to the axis of oscillation D so that there is no contact between said housing 4 and the worktop 3 at any time.

Un dispositif 1 a été réalisé qui convient à une grande majorité des usagers, avec la configuration suivante. La hauteur H de l'axe d'oscillation D par rapport au plan de travail est de l'ordre de 110 mm. La distance L depuis l'axe d'oscillation D jusqu'au rebord arrière 8 est de l'ordre de 85 mm. La distance l depuis l'axe d'oscillation D jusqu'à la direction générale du fond 5 est de l'ordre de 60 mm.A device 1 has been produced which is suitable for a large majority of users, with the following configuration. The height H of the axis of oscillation D relative to the work plane is of the order of 110 mm. The distance L from the axis of oscillation D to the rear edge 8 is of the order of 85 mm. The distance l from the axis of oscillation D to the general direction of the bottom 5 is of the order of 60 mm.

On a représenté sur la figure 2 une vue en perspective d'une variante de réalisation d'un dispositif 11 d'aide au mouvement des pieds sur lequel le mouvement de chaque pied est indépendant. Ce dispositif 11 se particularise par rapport à celui qui vient d'être décrit par le fait qu'il possède deux logements 12, 13, un pour chaque pied, lesdits logements étant montés oscillants par rapport au même axe d'oscillation D. Pour ce faire, le cadre 14, qui a la même configuration en U que le cadre 2 précédent comporte une branche médiane 15, avec un décrochement en hauteur, de forme triangulaire. Les logements 12, 13 sont solidarisés au cadre 14 par des systèmes tiges/rivets non représentés qui sont montés au niveau des extrémités supérieures des décrochements en hauteur des montants latéraux 14a, 14b et du montant médian 15, comme cela apparaît clairement sur la figure 2.FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a device 11 for assisting the movement of the feet on which the movement of each foot is independent. This device 11 is particular compared to that which has just been described by the fact that it has two housings 12, 13, one for each leg, said housings being mounted oscillating with respect to the same axis of oscillation D. To do this, the frame 14, which has the same U-shaped configuration as the previous frame 2 has a middle branch 15, with a step in height, of triangular shape. The housings 12, 13 are secured to the frame 14 by rod / rivet systems, not shown, which are mounted at the upper ends of the notches in height of the lateral uprights 14 a , 14 b and of the median upright 15, as is clearly seen on the figure 2.

Les logements 12, 13 sont adaptés à la configuration naturelle du pied. Leur fond est composé également de trois plaques transversales qui peuvent avoir une forme légèrement incurvée. Dans l'exemple illustré à la figure 2, qui est d'ailleurs celui qui est repris aux figures 3 et 4, la partie arrière du logement comprend non seulement le rebord arrière 16 sur lequel prend appui le talon, mais également une plaque transversale, disposée plus en hauteur, formant un prolongement arrière 17.The housings 12, 13 are adapted to the natural configuration of the base. Their bottom is also composed of three transverse plates which can have a slightly curved shape. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, which is also the one shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the rear part of the housing includes not only the rear flange 16 on which the heel rests, but also a transverse plate, arranged more in height, forming a rear extension 17.

Le rebord 16 est incliné par rapport à la direction générale F du fond d'un angle a qui est de l'ordre de 110 à 130°. Le prolongement arrière 17 est également incliné dans le même sens, par rapport au rebord arrière 16. Cette disposition se comprend à l'examen de la figure 3. Le prolongement arrière 17 permet de soutenir le pied lors du mouvement d'extension.The rim 16 is inclined relative to the general direction F of the bottom by an angle a which is of the order of 110 to 130 °. The rear extension 17 is also inclined in the same direction, with respect to the rear edge 16. This arrangement is understandable on examination of FIG. 3. The rear extension 17 makes it possible to support the foot during the extension movement.

La position du prolongement arrière 17 est telle qu'elle n'entraîne pas de contact avec le plan de travail 3 lors du mouvement de rétraction du pied, comme cela est illustré à la figure 4.The position of the rear extension 17 is such that it does not cause contact with the work surface 3 during the retraction movement of the foot, as illustrated in FIG. 4.

Grâce au dispositif 11, à deux logements, l'usager peut procéder à tout mouvement des pieds simultanément et avec le même balancement comme c'était le cas du dispositif 1 à un seul logement ou encore à des mouvements simultanés des deux pieds de manière alternée ou encore à des mouvements impliquant un seul pied à la fois, l'autre étant au repos.Thanks to the device 11, with two housings, the user can carry out any movement of the feet simultaneously and with the same rocking as was the case of the device 1 with a single housing or alternatively simultaneous movements of the two feet or to movements involving only one foot at a time, the other being at rest.

Comme on a pu s'en convaincre à la lecture de la description qui vient d'être faite, grâce au dispositif de l'invention, il est possible à toute personne, quelque soit ses difficultés de marche, de réaliser des mouvements de pieds faisant travailler une grande partie des muscles des jambes et par là même la circulation sanguine.As we have been able to convince ourselves on reading the description which has just been made, thanks to the device of the invention, it is possible for anyone, whatever his walking difficulties, to make foot movements making work a large part of the leg muscles and thereby the blood circulation.

De tels mouvements sont d'ailleurs conseillés par les cardiologues lors d'hospitalisation.Such movements are also recommended by cardiologists during hospitalization.

L'invention n'est pas limitée au mode de réalisation qui vient d'être décrit à titre d'exemple. On comprend également que le fonctionnement qui vient d'être décrit alors que l'usager était en position assise, peut également s'étendre aux personnes ayant une position couchée. Il suffit pour cela d'assurer le calage du dispositif de manière à éviter tout glissement, lors de l'utilisation, sur le plan de travail.The invention is not limited to the embodiment which has just been described by way of example. It is also understood that the operation which has just been described while the user was in a seated position, can also extend to persons having a lying position. It suffices for this to secure the device so as to avoid any sliding, during use, on the work surface.

Pour améliorer le confort de l'usager, le dispositif peut également être équipé d'un revêtement de protection, notamment dans un matériau textile, permettant de protéger les pieds de l'usager lors de l'utilisation. ce revêtement de l'utilisation vient s'adapter sur ou autour du logement de manière à s'intégrer avec celui-ci. Il permet d'entourer le pied de l'usager pour former une enveloppe, protégeant le pied notamment du froid, à l'instar d'une pantoufle ou d'une chaufferette.To improve the comfort of the user, the device can also be equipped with a protective coating, in particular in a textile material, making it possible to protect the feet of the user during use. this coating of use just fits on or around the housing so as to integrate with it. It surrounds the user's foot to form an envelope, protecting the foot in particular from the cold, like a slipper or a heater.

Bien que le but premier visé par le demandeur est de proposer un dispositif simplifié, permettant à l'usager de réaliser spontanément des mouvements simples des chevilles, il est néanmoins possible d'assortir le dispositif de l'invention de moyens complémentaires permettant d'assister l'usager dans la pratique de ces mouvements. Ces moyens complémentaires peuvent par exemple consister en des moyens d'oscillation des tiges montées sur l'axe d'oscillation du dispositif, de manière à ce que le ou les logements soient animés d'un mouvement de balancement selon un angle d'oscillation prédéterminé et selon une fréquence également prédéterminée. Dans ces conditions, le dispositif de l'invention devient un exerciseur médical.Although the primary goal sought by the applicant is to propose a simplified device, allowing the user to spontaneously perform simple movements of the ankles, it is nevertheless possible to match the device of the invention with complementary means making it possible to assist the user in the practice of these movements. These complementary means may for example consist of means for oscillating the rods mounted on the axis of oscillation of the device, so that the housing or the housings are driven in a rocking movement at a predetermined angle of oscillation. and according to a frequency also predetermined. Under these conditions, the device of the invention becomes a medical exerciser.

Lesdits moyens complémentaires peuvent, dans un autre exemple, consister en des moyens de freinage des logements lors de leur balancement, obligeant l'usager à exercer une certaine pression pour réaliser lesdits mouvements.Said additional means can, in another example, consist of means for braking the housings during their rocking, forcing the user to exert a certain pressure to carry out said movements.

Claims (11)

  1. Device for putting the feet into movement, the device comprising a frame (2) suitable for being placed on a working surface, and at least one footrest, which footrest is mounted to oscillate about an axis, which device is characterized in that the oscillation axis (D) of the footrest (4) is situated in a zone that substantially corresponds to the axis of the user's feet joints when the feet are in position on the footrest, and in that the footrest (4) is secured to the frame (2) about said oscillation axis (D) at a height (H) such as to ensure that the footrest (4) makes no contact with the working surface (3) during its oscillation about its axis (D).
  2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the footrest is constituted by a bottom (5) for the sole of the foot, a rear side embodying the back (8) for engaging the heel, and two sides (6, 7), each side being secured to the frame by means of a rod that embodies the oscillation axis.
  3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the bottom (5) of the footrest (4) is made up of a plurality of individual transverse strips (5a, 5b, 5c) each having its two ends fixed to the sides (6, 7), which strips are offset angularly relative to the general direction (F) of the bottom (5) and are shaped so as to take up the general natural shape of the sole of the foot.
  4. Device according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the back (8) slopes relative to the general direction of the bottom (F) at an angle α of about 100° to about 130°.
  5. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the frame constituting the stand of the device on the working surface is constituted by a U-shaped frame member (2) whose side branches (2a, 2b) have vertical projections (2d) for locating the oscillation axis (D), with the central branch (2c) being at opposite the rear portion of the footrest (4), in the working position.
  6. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it has two footrests (12, 13), one for each foot, each footrest oscillating independently from the other about the common oscillation axis (D).
  7. Device according to claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the frame which comprises a U-shaped frame member (14) also has an intermediate branch (15) inside the U-shape and at equal distances from the two side branches (14a, 14b), and in that the oscillation axis (D) of a given footrest is fixed to a vertical projection from the middle branch (15), on the one hand, and from a side branch (14a or 14b), on the other hand.
  8. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the height (H) of the oscillation axis (D) relative to the working surface (3) is about 110 mm, the distance (L) from the oscillation axis (D) to the back (4) is about 85 mm, and the distance l from the oscillation axis (D) to the general direction (F) of the bottom (5) is about 60 mm.
  9. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes at least one protective covering for the feet that is made of textile material, and that is suitable for fitting on or around the footrest (4).
  10. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes means for driving the footrest(s) in oscillation about the oscillation axis (D).
  11. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it includes means for braking the oscillation of the footrest(s).
EP19950490001 1994-01-20 1995-01-10 Helping device for foot movement Expired - Lifetime EP0664141B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9400802A FR2715075B1 (en) 1994-01-20 1994-01-20 Foot movement aid.
FR9400802 1994-01-20

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0664141A1 EP0664141A1 (en) 1995-07-26
EP0664141B1 true EP0664141B1 (en) 1996-12-27

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19950490001 Expired - Lifetime EP0664141B1 (en) 1994-01-20 1995-01-10 Helping device for foot movement

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EP (1) EP0664141B1 (en)
CA (1) CA2140318A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69500115D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2715075B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CA2174714A1 (en) * 1996-02-02 1997-08-03 Charles Ho Pivoting abdominal exercise apparatus
CN102406523B (en) * 2011-06-27 2013-06-05 徐金明 Foot supporting sole thermal therapy instrument

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ES238952Y (en) * 1978-10-06 1979-04-16 GYMNASTIC APPARATUS TO ACTIVATE THE BLOOD CIRCULATION.
DE7929349U1 (en) * 1979-10-17 1980-03-06 C. & H. Leuthaeusser Inh. Hilmar Leuthaeusser, 8631 Wiesenfeld HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE FOOTREST
US4466611A (en) * 1980-09-26 1984-08-21 Pastor Angle A Active physiotherapeutic device
US5069446A (en) * 1991-02-20 1991-12-03 Larson Roger R Physical rehabilitation device and method

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
FR2715075B1 (en) 1996-04-05
FR2715075A1 (en) 1995-07-21
EP0664141A1 (en) 1995-07-26
DE69500115D1 (en) 1997-02-06
CA2140318A1 (en) 1995-07-21

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