Apparatus for excercising the back

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a physiotherapeutic apparatus, particularly to an apparatus for aiding recovery from back problems, particularly lower back problems, comprising a frame, a first support which is arranged on the frame and which supports a seat surface for a user, means for setting the position of the first support in a chosen stationary position, a second support for the lower back of the user, a load to be grasped by the user and arranged on the frame in a manner displaceable by the user in a training movement, wherein the apparatus is further provided with fixation means for fixing the legs of the user relative to the first and/or second support.

[0002] Controlled movement and strengthening of the back usually takes place on an apparatus comprising a frame with a seat and a support cushion or roll placed behind the seat and supporting against the rear side of the pelvis, the lower back. The load to be displaced by the user during movement of his/her body back and forth is provided by a resistance roll which is placed against the upper part of the back and/or by a set of brackets which can be gripped adjacently of the head of the user. The load is connected via cables and pulleys to counterweights with which the load can be set to the desired value.

[0003] The movement of the back can be separated from that of the legs by fixing the legs relative to the pelvis and the support for the lower back using a foot plate and knee retainers.

[0004] The setting can be varied depending on the person by adjusting the position of the seat relative to the pelvis and the support for the lower back in upward or downward direction and then readjusting the position of the knee retainers, of the foot plate and the resistance roll relative to the frame.

[0005] Determining the movements performed and results is usually registered by manually recording the variables.

[0006] The set-up of the apparatus and adjustment thereof are normally carried out per overall target area, and the treatment is performed over a larger area to increase the chance of the problem area actually lying in the treatment zone.

[0007] This usual method of operation makes it difficult and labour-intensive to always apply the correct, personalized program in a treatment cycle. It is also difficult to adapt the treatment (repeated over time) of a person to the actual results.

[0008] Known from EP 1 020 206 A is an exercise apparatus in which a person can take up position on a seat, wherein the fixation means for fixing the legs are provided by leg supports for the shins.

[0009] An object of the invention is to provide a therapeutic apparatus of the type stated in the preamble, whereby the apparatus can be adapted in simple manner to a subsequent stage in the treatment of a person.

[0010] An object of the invention is to provide a therapeutic apparatus of the type stated in the preamble, whereby the apparatus can be made ready in simple manner for a treatment of a subsequent user.

[0011] An object of the invention is to provide a therapeutic apparatus of the type stated in the preamble, whereby the treatment of a person can be monitored in satisfactory manner and if necessary adjusted to this person in simple manner.

[0012] In order to achieve at least one of these objects the invention provides an apparatus of the type specified in the preamble, wherein the fixation means are suspended from the first support and form one movable whole with the seat surface.

[0013] The fixation means thus follow the displacement of the first support, particularly seat surface, during adjustment thereof relative to the rest of the frame. When the position or orientation of the seat surface is changed, for instance relative to the resistance roll, the setting of the fixation means can be left undisturbed.

[0014] In a further development of the apparatus according to the invention, in which the fixation means comprise a knee retainer preferably provided with surfaces for engaging the front side of the knees of a user, the one or more adjustable connections comprise a first connection which connects the knee retainer to the first support and is adjustable in a direction substantially transversely of the seat surface.

[0015] Herein, or alternatively, the one or more adjustable connections can comprise a second connection which connects the knee retainer to the first support and is adjustable in a direction parallel to the seat surface.

[0016] The first and the second connection can be connected in series, as seen from the first support, whereby the accessibility of the apparatus to the user, particularly mounting and dismounting, can be enhanced.

[0017] The accessibility is further enhanced when the first and/or second connections are located to the side of the space to be occupied by the user, and are particularly located on a side of the first support. In the case of overstraining the knee retainers will hereby be able to move away to this side, thereby preventing injury to the user.

[0018] In a further development of the apparatus according to the invention, wherein the fixation means comprise a third support for the ankle and/or foot zone of a user, preferably a foot rest, and wherein the first support defines a seat surface, the one or more adjustable connections comprise a third connection which is adjustable in a direction substantially transversely of the seat surface.

[0019] It is also advantageous here for the third connection to be located to the side of the space to be occupied by the user, particularly on a side of the first support. In the case of overstraining the foot rest will hereby be able to move away to this side, thereby preventing injury to the user.

[0020] In an embodiment easily accessible to the user the first and/or second connections on the one hand and the third connection on the other are located on opposite sides of the first support.

[0021] In a simple embodiment the first and third connections are substantially parallel to each other.

[0022] For adjustment of the position thereof the first support can be connected to the frame by means of a fourth connection adjustable in length and/or orientation in the vertical plane. The fourth connection can here extend substantially vertically.

[0023] In an embodiment the load is connected to the frame by means of a fifth connection, wherein the fifth connection is provided with means for adjusting the length and/or orientation thereof relative to the first support.

[0024] In an easily adjustable embodiment one or more of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth connections are provided with an associated drive.

[0025] When the one or more of the first, second, third, fourth and fifth connections are provided with a carrier on which the drive and a guide for the displacing part of the drive are mounted, the alignment is enhanced and the occurrence of additional moments as a result of deformations in the drive and/or the guide is prevented.

[0026] The modification of the apparatus to the program and/or a subsequent user is enhanced when the apparatus is provided with a control unit for controlling the drives of the one or more connections adjustable in length and/or orientation.

[0027] Monitoring of the treatment of a user is facilitated when the control unit is provided with means for recording the adjusted position of the first, second, third and fourth connections in relation to ID data of the user. Part of the history can thereby be saved almost automatically for later use. This can be particularly useful in preparation for use by a subsequent user, for which purpose the control unit is provided with means for controlling the setting of the position of the one or more of the first, second, third and fourth connections subject to the ID data.

[0028] In order to prevent overstraining of the knees and/or lower legs taking place when the adjustable connections are set for the first time, the one or more of the first, second, third and fourth connections can be provided with spring means between the driven part of the drive and the part of the connection to be displaced by the drive. Displacement of the parts which are pressed against the body of the user is hereby limited until the force necessary for elastic deformation of the spring means is exceeded. For optimal adaptation to the user, for instance child or adult or elderly person, it is advantageous for the spring means to be adjustable.

[0029] In a further aspect the invention thus also provides an apparatus for - particularly therapeutic - exercising of a part of a human body, particularly the back, more particularly the lower back, comprising a frame and fixation means for fixing parts of the body relative to one or more supports on the frame, wherein the fixation means comprise an adjustable connection and a drive therefor, which drive comprises a part driven thereby, wherein the driven part carries a stop part which is mounted on the driven part by means of connecting means, wherein the stop part is provided with a stop surface for arrival against the relevant part of the body, wherein the connecting means comprise - preferably adjustable - spring means between the driven part and the stop part.

[0030] The first support can bear the full weight of the fixation means.

[0031] In a further aspect the invention provides an apparatus for exercising the back, particularly lower back, comprising a frame, a first support which is arranged on the frame and which supports a seat surface for a user, a second support for the lower back of the user arranged on the frame, a load to be grasped by the user and arranged on the frame in a manner displaceable by the user in a training movement, wherein the load comprises a contact part which is intended for contact with the user and which is mounted on an arm, which arm is connected with an end to the frame for rotation about a particularly horizontal load central axis, wherein the apparatus is further provided with means for adjusting the distance from the contact part to the load central axis, as seen in projection on a vertical plane lying perpendicularly of the load central axis. The position of the contact part, such as a resistance roll, as well as the moment can hereby be adjusted.

[0032] In a simple embodiment the end of the arm proximal relative to the frame is mounted on a guide and can be displaced therealong relative to the load central axis. The guide can extend in a direction substantially perpendicularly of the seat surface, in readied state of the apparatus, whereby the adjustment takes place in a direction parallel to the back of the user.

[0033] Adjustment is facilitated when the guide is provided with a drive for displacing the proximal arm end. The drive can be controlled by a control unit, wherein the setting data can be stored, as stated above for the fifth connection.

[0034] The guide can be connected non-rotatably to the arm so that during use it can remain parallel to the back of the user.

[0035] The load central axis is situated such that it can coincide with the virtual lumbar rotation point (VLR) of the user. Depending on the user, this can be achieved by adjusting the first support.

[0036] The aspects and measures described in this description and claims of the application and/or shown in the drawings of this application can where possible also be applied independently of each other.

[0037] The invention will be elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. 1 shows an isometric view of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a diagram of the control system of the apparatus of Fig. 1; and

Fig. 3A-B show schematic longitudinal sections through damping provisions in several adjustable connections in the apparatus of figure 1.

[0038] The physiotherapeutic apparatus 1 of figure 1 comprises a frame 2 which can optionally be constructed from a plurality of parts placed at a mutual distance on a ground surface. Frame 2 supports a column 4 which supports a schematically shown seat support 3 (first support) with seat surface 3a. Seat surface 3a has a vertical plane of symmetry M and a normal Y.

[0039] Mounted behind seat support 3 on frame 2 is a column 6, on the upper end of which a support roll 5 is mounted in fixed position but freely rotatable in directions A. Support roll 5 forms a second support, this for the rear pelvic area or lower back of a user.

[0040] Mounted on the right-hand side of seat support 3 on frame 2 is an upright 7 in which a cable pulley 8 is mounted, pulley 8 forming one rotatable whole with a shaft 9 for rotation about load central axis S. An adjustable connection 10, which will be discussed further, is mounted in non-rotatable manner on the outer end of shaft 9. Connection 10 carries an arm 11, the proximal end 11a of which is mounted on connection 10 and which comprises a number of arm parts 11b,c,d,e lying at fixed angles relative to each other. The distal end 11f of arm 11 carries a roll 12 (contact part) which is freely rotatable in directions B.

[0041] On the right-hand side of seat support 3 frame 2 also supports a column 13 which is provided at the top with a cable pulley 14 and provides space at the bottom for a weight 15 of adjustable value. The weight can hang from a first cable 16 which runs round cable pulley 17 and ends in a force sensor 18 attached to frame 2. Pulley 17 is attached to the end of a second cable 20, the other end of which is attached to cable pulley 8 for winding thereon or unwinding therefrom during rotation of pulley 8.

[0042] Attached on the underside of seat support 3, at front right, is a set of knee clamps or knee retainers 24a,b which comprises a first, length-adjustable connection 21 oriented parallel to the normal Y to seat surface 3a. A second, length-adjustable connection 22 extending parallel to seat surface 3a in a vertical plane parallel to plane M is attached to the lower end of first connection 21. The front end of second connection 22 carries a console 23 which extends transversely inward and upward and which carries two knee clamps 24a,b at the upper end.

[0043] On the underside of seat support 3, at front left, a foot plate 25 is suspended by means of a third, length-adjustable connection 26. Third connection 26 is oriented parallel to first connection 21. Foot plate 25 is oriented parallel to seat surface 3a.

[0044] Apparatus 1 comprises five length-adjustable connections, i.e. 4, 10, 21, 22 and 26. These connections all comprise a carrier (not shown) with guide for stiffness/alignment and an actuator with relatively stationary parts 4a, 10a, 21a, 22a and 26a and relatively and linearly displaceable parts 4b, 10b, 21b, 22b and 26b, see the diagram of figure 2. The actuators can be of any suitable construction, such as with cylinder drive, toothed drive, worm drive etc.

[0045] For control purposes these are functionally connected via conduits 30a-e to a programmable control unit 50, which is provided with an input station 51 for data of a user (such as ID and treatment program with personal base settings), screen 52 and keyboard 53.

[0046] The relative position of the two parts 4a,b, 10a,b, 21a,b, 22a,b and 26a,b is measured using sensors (not shown), for instance Hall sensors, and generated to control unit 50 via conduits 31a-e.

[0047] During use the above stated data of a user are input into control unit 50. The weight 15 is set to the value desired for the treatment (which can for instance be read on screen 52). The radius of the (exchangeable) pulley 8 can be chosen subject to the loading level corresponding to the treatment angle (the angle through which the user must move his/her back) in order to realize a ratio optimized for the therapy.

[0048] The user takes up position on seat support 3. The correct positions for the user can be set via the keyboard or via a provision (not shown) on the actuators themselves. The correct height of seat surface 3a relative to fixed roll 5 is thus adjusted with actuator of connection 4 (direction G), wherein the VLR lies approximately on load central axis S. The positions of knee supports 24a,b and foot plate 25 (for the angle formed by the knees) are adjusted with actuators of connections 21 and 22 and 26 (directions I,J,K), this such that the pelvis and the legs of the user will be in fixed position when the back of the user pivots forward and rearward. The actuators are dimensioned such that the maximum displacement speed remains within 12 mm/second, a speed which is not perceived by people as alarming.

[0049] Using the actuator of connection 10 (direction H) the position of resistance roll 12 is then set to the desired position of engagement on the back of the user. The proximal arm end 10a is displaced linearly here relative to axis S, parallel to Y and to the back of the user.

[0050] The thus set positions of connections 4, 10, 21, 22 and 26 are stored in control unit 50.

[0051] As the back of the user moves rearward the roll 12 is co-displaced and arm 11, and thereby connection 10 and thereby shaft 9, will rotate about load central axis S, in direction C. Associated rotation of pulley 8 exerts pull on cable 20, in direction D, whereby weight 15 is lifted, this being sensed by force sensor 18 which generates this fact to control unit 50. For the purpose of measuring the angular speed of pulley 8 a meter 27, for instance a potentiometer, can be arranged which generates data to control unit 50. The rotation angle, rotation speed and rotation direction of the forward and rearward movement of the patient can thus also be continuously measured at the position of shaft 9 and recorded in the control unit. All these data are stored and processed therein for the purpose of the treatment program and possible modification thereof. The force exerted by the weights is continuously measured during the movement and recorded in control unit 50.

[0052] Control and reading the position of each actuator can take place continuously. The data can be recorded in the connected computer of the control unit and compared therein to the positions which are desirable on the basis of the individual treatment. Possibly necessary adjustment takes place immediately in real-time during the treatment.

[0053] When the user must then perform a subsequent exercise, with a different height of seat surface 3a relative to roll 5, a different orientation of seat surface 3a in plane M (if connection 4 also enables a (preferably controlled) adjustment of an angle between parts 4a and 4b), the position of knee supports 24a,b and of foot plate 26 does not then have to be reset.

[0054] When after a period of for instance a few days the user pays a subsequent visit to continue the treatment, the control unit can provide for the correct settings for this user by linking the stored setup data, by operating the actuators in connections 4, 21, 22 and 26, and optionally also connection 10. A precise and reliable adjustment is thus provided in a short time.

[0055] As shown in figures 3A-B, connections 21,22 and 26 are provided with a safety spring to prevent injury to the user during adjustment.

[0056] Figure 3A shows a part of connection 21 which may pose a risk during extension/elongation because the upper part of the knees is then pressed toward foot plate 25. A cylinder rod 21c is attached to part 21b and presses part 21a to the right with 21d during extension. Coupling 21d is attached to a plate 21f which forms a fixed whole with wall 21g which encloses a compression spring 21e. The distance between the two ends of spring 21e can be adjusted. Plate 21f is provided with a hole 21h for passage of cylinder rod 21c. A displacement of cylinder rod 21c exceeding a maximum force set with spring 21e cannot hereby result in an increased vertical clamping of the patient.

[0057] Figure 3B shows a part of connection 22 which may pose a risk during the retraction/shortening because the front part of the knees is then pressed toward the seat and roll 5. A cylinder rod 22c is attached to part 22b and with elongation 22d and end plate 22f pulls part 22a to the left during retraction. Elongation 22d extends through a compression spring 22e received fittingly in housing 22g of part 22a. The distance between the two ends of spring 22e is adjustable. A displacement of cylinder rod 22c exceeding a maximum force set by spring 22e cannot hereby result in an increased horizontal clamping of the patient.

[0058] It is possible to provide in addition to this an electrical limitation of the maximum force to be exerted from the drive toward the patient to a level where injury is unlikely. The actuators can be chosen for this purpose such that the force can be limited by limiting the current, without this influencing the speed of the displacement.

[0059] During the treatment the flexion of the spinal column increases and readjustment is necessary to maintain a good fixing, and thereby an optimal treatment result. The readjustment force of the automatic readjustment is limited to a low level such that only the increased flexion due to an increased clamping is incorporated.

[0060] The actuators take a self-braking form so that the reaction forces exerted by the patient on the fixation and the force roll, and hereby indirectly on the different actuators, cannot result in displacement of the actuators.

[0061] The suspension of foot plate 25 and knee clamp 24a,b is assembled in terms of form, stiffness and construction such that in the case of a possible overstrain the construction parts bend elastically so that no injury is caused to the patient. Particularly because it is suspended on a side adjacently of the position of the feet, foot plate 25 can bend away (direction F) in the case of overstrain of the patient, whereby the displacement of the lower legs and the force thereon is limited. Because knee support 24a,b is suspended on a side adjacently of the position of the feet, it can also bend away (direction E) in the case of overstrain of the patient, whereby the displacement of the knee support and the force thereon are limited.

[0062] The setup and dimensioning of apparatus 1 is such that elastic deformation occurs before the exerted force is likely to result in injury to the user.

[0063] The diameter and the hardness of rolls 5 and 12 are embodied in different combinations so that the correct load distribution and support can be realized in the individual treatment. Load roll 12 is provided with a fast-change system so that it is possible to comply with individual conditions when applying force to a patient. Fixed roll 5 is provided with a fast-change system so that it is possible to comply with individual conditions for treatment. Optimal treatment can in this way be given.

[0064] Knee supports 24a,b are constructed from a metal outer side which supports the leg around the knee at a chosen angle between 90 and 120 degrees, and a flexible layer on the inner side which is shaped such that the leg is uniformly loaded in the load direction, front side lower leg and top side upper leg, and is given lateral support such that the leg remains in the correct position. At the position of the knee joint the form is adapted such that the joint is uniformly loaded during the fixing, wherein no direct load is exerted from the fixation on the kneecap and joints.

[0065] All measurements are made and recorded and subsequently processed on the same time base so that an immediate, real-time feedback to the therapist is realized. Each subsequent step in the treatment can thus be determined objectively.

[0066] Because the setting data, the treatment data and the actual values of each patient are continuously measured in real-time, the fixation and position are adjusted where necessary in accordance with the prescribed treatment.

[0067] The above description is included for the purpose of illustrating the operation of preferred embodiments of the invention and not to limit the scope of the invention. Many variations falling within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims will be evident to a skilled person on the basis of the above description.

Claims

1. Apparatus (1) for - particularly therapeutic - exercising of the back, in particular lower back, comprising a frame (2), a first support (3) which is arranged on the frame and which supports a seat surface (3a) for a user, means (4) for setting the position of the first support (3) in a chosen stationary position, a second support (5), mounted fixed in position, for the lower back of the user, a load (12) to be grasped by the user and arranged on the frame (2) in a manner displaceable by the user in a training movement, wherein the apparatus (1) is further provided with fixation means (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) for fixing the legs of the user relative to the first (3) and second support (5), characterized in that the fixation means (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) are suspended from the first support (3) and form one movable whole with the seat surface (3a).

2. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that the fixation means comprise a knee retainer (24a,b) for fixing a knee, wherein the at least one adjustable connection comprises a first connection (21) which connects the knee retainer (24a,b) to the first support (3) and is adjustable in a direction substantially transversely of the seat surface (3a) and/or the at least one adjustable connection comprises a second connection (22) which connects the knee retainer (24a,b) to the first support (3) and is adjustable in a direction parallel to the seat surface (3a).

3. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that the first (21) and the second (22) connection are connected in series between the knee retainer (24a,b) and the first support (3).

4. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the fixation means comprise a third support (25) for the ankle and/or foot zone of a user.

5. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 4, characterized in that the at least one adjustable connection comprises a third connection (26) which is adjustable in a direction substantially transversely of the seat surface (3a).

6. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the first support (3) is connected to the frame (2) by means of a fourth connection (4) adjustable in length and/or orientation in the vertical plane.

7. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the load (12) is connected to the frame (2) by means of a fifth connection (10), wherein the fifth connection (10) is provided with means for adjusting the length and/or orientation thereof relative to the first support (3).

8. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the claims 2-6, characterized in that at least one of the first (21), second (22), third (26), fourth (4) and fifth (10) connections is provided with an associated drive.

9. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that the at least one of the first (21), second (22), third (26), fourth (4) and fifth (10) connections is provided with a carrier on which the drive and a guide for the displacing part of the drive are mounted.

10. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 8 or 9, provided with a control unit (50) for controlling the drive of the at least one connection (4, 10, 21, 22, 26) adjustable in length and/or orientation.

11. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that the control unit (50) is provided with means for recording the adjusted position of the at least one connection (4, 10, 21, 22, 26) adjustable in length and/or orientation in relation to ID data of the user.

12. Apparatus (1) as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that the control unit (50) is provided with means for controlling the setting of the position of the at least one of the first (21), second (22), third (26), fourth (4) and fifth (10) connections subject to the ID data.

13. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the claims 8-12, characterized in that the at least one of the first (21), second (22), third (26), fourth (4) and fifth (10) connections is provided with spring means (21e, 22e) between the driven part of the drive and the part of the connection to be displaced by the drive, said spring means (21e, 22e) being adjustable.

14. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the foregoing claims, characterized in that the second support (5) is in fixed position on the frame (2).

15. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the claims 1-14, wherein the first support (3) bears the full weight of the fixation means.

16. Apparatus (1) as claimed in any of the claims 1-15, wherein the load comprises a contact part (12) which is intended for contact with the user and which is mounted on an arm (11), which arm (11) is connected with an end to the frame (2) for rotation about a particularly horizontal load central axis (S), characterized in that it is provided with means (10) for adjusting the distance from the contact part to the load central axis (S), as seen in projection on a vertical plane lying perpendicularly of the load central axis (S).

Ansprüche

1. Vorrichtung (1) zum - insbesondere therapeutischen - Training des Rückens, insbesondere des Unterrückens, umfassend ein Gestell (2), eine auf dem Gestell angebrachte erste Stütze (3), die eine Sitzfläche (3a) für den Benutzer stützt, Mittel (4) zum Einstellen der Position der ersten Stütze (3) in einen gewählten stationären Stand, eine zweite Stütze (5), ortsfest befestigt, für den Unterrücken des Benutzers, eine durch den Benutzer anzugreifende Last (12), welche auf eine durch den Benutzer in einer Trainingsbewegung verlagerbaren Weise auf dem Gestell (2) angebracht ist, wobei die Vorrichtung (1) weiter mit Fixiermitteln (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) zum Fixieren der Beine des Benutzers bezüglich der ersten (3) und zweiten Stütze (5) ausgestattet ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fixiermittel (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) an der ersten Stütze (3) aufgehängt sind und ein bewegbares Ganzes mit der Sitzfläche (3a) bilden.

2. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fixiermittel einen Kniehalter (24a,b) zum Fixieren eines Knies umfassen, wobei die zumindest eine einstellbare Verbindung eine erste Verbindung (21) umfasst, die den Kniehalter (24a,b) mit der ersten Stütze (3) verbindet und einstellbar ist in eine Richtung im Wesentlichen quer zu der Sitzfläche (3a) und/oder die zumindest eine einstellbare Verbindung eine zweite Verbindung (22) umfasst, die den Kniehalter (24a,b) mit der ersten Stütze (3) verbindet und einstellbar ist in eine Richtung parallel zur Sitzfläche (3a).

3. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die erste (21) und die zweite (22) Verbindung miteinander in Serie zwischen dem Kniehalter (24a,b) und der ersten Stütze (3) angeordnet sind.

4. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Fixiermittel eine dritte Stütze (25) für den Knöchel- und/oder Fußbereich eines Benutzers umfassen.

5. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zumindest eine einstellbare Verbindung eine dritte Verbindung (26) umfasst, die einstellbar ist in eine Richtung im Wesentlichen quer zur Sitzfläche (3a).

6. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die erste Stütze (3) mittels einer in Länge und/oder Orientierung in der vertikalen Fläche einstellbaren vierten Verbindung (4) mit dem Gestell (2) verbunden ist.

7. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Last (12) mittels einer fünften Verbindung (10) mit dem Gestell (2) verbunden ist, wobei die fünfte Verbindung (10) mit Mitteln zum Einstellen der Länge und/oder Orientierung davon bezüglich der ersten Stütze (3) ausgestattet ist.

8. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 2-6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass zumindest eine der ersten (21), zweiten (22), dritten (26), vierten (4) und fünften (10) Verbindungen mit einem zugehörigen Antrieb ausgestattet ist.

9. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 8, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zumindest eine der ersten (21), zweiten (22), dritten (26), vierten (4) und fünften (10) Verbindung mit einem Träger ausgestattet ist, auf dem der Antrieb und eine Führung für den sich bewegenden Teil des Antriebs befestigt sind.

10. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 8 oder 9, ausgestattet mit einer Steuereinheit (50) zum Steuern des Antriebs der zumindest einen in Länge und/oder Orientierung einstellbaren Verbindung (4, 10, 21, 22, 26).

11. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 10, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Steuereinheit (50) mit Mitteln zur Registrierung des eingestellten Standes der zumindest einen in Länge und/oder Orientierung einstellbaren Verbindung (4, 10, 21, 22, 26) im Verhältnis zu ID Daten des Benutzers ausgestattet ist.

12. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Steuereinheit (50) mit Mitteln zum in Abhängigkeit der ID Daten Steuern der Einstellung des Standes der zumindest einen der ersten (21), zweiten (22), dritten (26), vierten (4) und fünften (10) Verbindung ausgestattet ist.

13. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 8-12, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zumindest eine der ersten (21), zweiten (22), dritten (26), vierten (4) und fünften (10) Verbindung zwischen dem angetriebenen Teil des Antriebs und dem durch den Antrieb zu bewegenden Teil der Verbindung mit Federmitteln (21e, 22e) ausgestattet ist, welche Federmittel (21e, 22e) einstellbar sind.

14. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die zweite Stütze (5) auf dem Gestell (2) ortsfest ist.

15. Vorrichtung gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1-14, wobei die erste Stütze (3) das gesamte Gewicht der Fixiermittel trägt.

16. Vorrichtung (1) gemäß einem der Ansprüche 1-15, wobei die Last einen für den Kontakt mit dem Benutzer bestimmten Kontaktteil (12) umfasst, der auf einem Arm (11) befestigt ist, welcher Arm (11) mit einem Ende um einer insbesondere horizontalen Lastachse (S) verdrehbar mit dem Gestell (2) verbunden ist, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass dieser mit Mitteln (10) zum Einstellen des Abstandes des Kontaktteils zu der Lastachse (S) ausgestattet ist, in Projektion auf einer vertikalen Fläche betrachtet, die senkrecht zur Lastachse (S) steht.

Revendications

1. Appareil (1), en particulier thérapeutique, pour faire travailler le dos, en particulier les lombaires, comprenant un cadre (2), un premier support (3) qui est agencé sur le cadre et qui supporte une surface de siège (3a) pour un utilisateur, des moyens (4) pour régler la position du premier support (3) dans une position stationnaire choisie, un deuxième support (5), monté fixement en position, pour les lombaires de l'utilisateur, une charge (12) que l'utilisateur doit saisir et qui est agencée sur le cadre (2) d'une façon déplaçable par l'utilisateur dans un mouvement d'entraînement, dans lequel l'appareil (1) comprend en outre des moyens de fixation (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) pour fixer les jambes de l'utilisateur par rapport aux premier (3) et deuxième (5) supports, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fixation (21, 22, 24a,b, 25, 26) sont suspendus au premier support (3) et forment un ensemble mobile avec la surface de siège (3a).

2. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fixation comprennent un élément de retenue de genou (24a,b) pour fixer un genou, dans lequel ladite au moins une connexion réglable comprend une première connexion (21) qui connecte l'élément de retenue de genou (24a,b) au premier support (3) et qui est réglable dans une direction sensiblement transversale à la surface de siège (3a) et/ou ladite au moins une connexion réglable comprend une deuxième connexion (22) qui connecte l'élément de retenue de genou (24a,b) au premier support (3) et qui est réglable dans une direction parallèle à la surface de siège (3a).

3. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que les première (21) et deuxième (22) connexions sont connectées en série entre l'élément de retenue de genou (24a,b) et le premier support (3).

4. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens de fixation comprennent un troisième support (25) pour la zone de la cheville et/ou du pied d'un utilisateur.

5. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que ladite au moins une connexion réglable comprend une troisième connexion (26) qui est réglable dans une direction sensiblement transversale à la surface de siège (3a).

6. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le premier support (3) est connecté au cadre (2) à l'aide d'une quatrième connexion (4) dont la longueur et/ou l'orientation dans le plan vertical est (sont) réglable(s).

7. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que la charge (12) est connectée au cadre (2) à l'aide d'une cinquième connexion (10), dans lequel la cinquième connexion (10) comprend des moyens pour régler la longueur et/ou l'orientation de celle-ci par rapport au premier support (3).

8. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 2 à 6, caractérisé en ce qu'au moins une parmi les première (21), deuxième (22), troisième (26), quatrième (4) et cinquième (10) connexions est pourvue d'une commande associée.

9. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 8, caractérisé en ce que ladite au moins une parmi les première (21), deuxième (22), troisième (26), quatrième (4) et cinquième (10) connexions comprend un support sur lequel la commande et un guide pour la partie mobile de la commande sont montés.

10. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 8 ou 9, comprenant une unité de commande (50) pour commander la commande de ladite au moins une connexion (4, 10, 21, 22, 26) dont la longueur et/ou l'orientation est (sont) réglable(s).

11. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 10, caractérisé en ce que l'unité de commande (50) comprend des moyens pour enregistrer la position réglée de ladite au moins une connexion (4, 10, 21, 22, 26) dont la longueur et/ou l'orientation est (sont) réglable(s) sur la base des données d'identification de l'utilisateur.

12. Appareil (1) selon la revendication 11, caractérisé en ce que l'unité de commande (50) comprend des moyens pour commander le réglage de la position de ladite au moins une parmi les première (21), deuxième (22), troisième (26), quatrième (4) et cinquième (10) connexions sur la base des données d'identification.

13. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 8 à 12, caractérisé en ce que ladite au moins une parmi les première (21), deuxième (22), troisième (26), quatrième (4) et cinquième (10) connexions est équipée de moyens de ressort (21e, 22e) entre la partie entraînée de la commande et la partie de la connexion à déplacer par la commande, lesdits moyens de ressort (21e, 22e) étant réglables.

14. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le deuxième support (5) se trouve dans une position fixe sur le cadre (2).

15. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 14, dans lequel le premier support (3) supporte la totalité du poids des moyens de fixation.

16. Appareil (1) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 15, dans lequel la charge comprend une partie compacte (12) qui est destinée à entrer en contact avec l'utilisateur et qui est montée sur un bras (11), ledit bras (11) étant connecté à une extrémité au cadre (2) afin de tourner autour d'un axe central de charge particulièrement horizontal (S), caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens (10) pour régler la distance entre la partie de contact et l'axe central de charge (S), comme on peut le voir dans une projection sur un plan vertical s'étendant perpendiculairement à l'axe central de charge (S).

Drawing