JP7213635B2 - cane - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a cane that can be used as one cane by combining a first cane and a second cane, or can be used as two canes by separating the first cane and the second cane. Specifically, when walking on a flat road such as asphalt, the first cane and the second cane can be combined and used as a single cane, and the first cane and the second cane can be used for uneven ground such as gravel roads and slopes. The present invention relates to a cane that can be used as two canes when walking while holding the canes with the left and right hands and maintaining balance.

Conventionally, a cane for a left hand having a grip portion, a body portion and a ground portion, and a cane for a right hand in which the grip portion, the body portion and the ground portion of the cane for the left hand are arranged bilaterally symmetrically are provided, and one hand is used for walking. An ambidextrous cane has been disclosed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 (claim 1, paragraph [0009], FIG. 1)). In this cane for both hands and hands, the first magnet portions having opposite polarities are provided inside the grip portions of the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane, respectively, and the first magnet portions having opposite polarities are provided inside the grounding portions of the left-hand cane and right-hand cane. A second magnet portion is provided respectively. In addition, a projection is provided on the first magnet portion of either the left-hand cane or the right-hand cane, and the projection is fitted to the first magnet portion of the other of the left-hand cane or the right-hand cane. is provided with a recess.

The single-handed and double-handed cane constructed in this manner strengthens the connection when the left-handed cane and the right-handed cane are combined into one, and is not only suitable for transportation and storage, but also can be used as a one-handed cane for walking. . In addition, since the protrusions and recesses of the first magnet are fitted to the grip portions of the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane, the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane can be positioned when combined into one. Since the second magnet is surface-joined at the grounding portion of the cane and the right-hand cane, the cane can be put together as one even if deterioration occurs due to use.

On the other hand, a two-handed cane configured to be connectable by attaching a detachable connector has been disclosed (for example, Patent Document 2 (claim 1, abstract [solution], paragraph [0008], [ 0009], [0021], FIGS. 1 and 2)). In this ambidextrous cane, the left cane and the right cane each have a grip part fixed to the upper end of each main body and a tip rubber worn on the lower end of each main body. In addition, near the upper and lower ends of each inner side of each body of the left cane and the right cane, a connector protrusion and a connector recess are attached, respectively, and the connectors are spring-loaded to prevent them from coming off during use. A snap button structure with a stop is used. As a connector, it is possible to keep the two-handed sticks together so that they do not separate, such as those that connect by unevenness, those that connect by hooking, Velcro (registered trademark, the same applies hereinafter), magnets, or those that connect together by tying them together. It is possible to connect and separate easily, and it is easy to handle. Furthermore, one of the iron piece and the magic tape may be attached to the tip of the protruding portion of the connector protrusion, and the other of the magnet and the magic tape may be attached to the bottom of the concave portion of the connector recess.

In the ambidextrous cane constructed in this way, when a person who walks with a cane in each hand performs an action other than walking, the cane can be easily bundled and held easily by connecting the cane with the connector. possible and easier to handle. In addition, even when walking with two sticks in one hand for a short period of time, the sticks can be connected by a connector and used as one stick.

Utility Model Registration No. 3122709 JP-A-11-127927

However, when the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane are put together, for example, if a force acts on the grounding portion of the left-hand cane in a direction parallel to the mating surfaces of the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane, the convex portion and the right-hand cane There is a problem that the contact portion of the cane for the left hand rotates about the fitting portion of the concave portion in a direction in which it slides relative to the contact portion of the cane for the right hand, and these contact portions are unintentionally separated. In addition, in the one-handed and two-handed cane shown in the conventional Patent Document 1, in the one-handed and two-handed cane shown in the conventional Patent Document 1, the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane are combined into one, For example, if a force acts on the contact portion of the left-hand cane in the direction of separating it from the contact portion of the right-hand cane, there is a problem that the left-hand cane and the right-hand cane are unintentionally separated. Furthermore, in the one-handed and two-handed cane shown in the conventional patent document 1, the left-handed cane and the right-handed cane are separated from the state in which the left-handed cane and the right-handed cane are put together into one, and the left-handed cane and the right-handed cane are used with the left hand and the right hand, respectively. There is also a problem that the thickness of the grip portion becomes almost half when held, and the user feels uncomfortable.

On the other hand, in the ambidextrous cane shown in the above conventional patent document 2, when the connector has a snap button structure or a magnet, the left cane and the right cane are combined into one, for example, with the tip rubber of the left cane. There is also a problem that the left cane and the right cane are unintentionally separated when a force acts in the direction of separating the rubber tip of the right cane from each other. In addition, in the two-handed cane shown in the conventional patent document 2, when the left cane and the right cane are separated from the combined state and the left cane and the right cane are held with the left hand and the right hand, respectively, the grip portion There is also a problem that the thickness of the tape is almost halved and the user feels a sense of incongruity.

A first object of the present invention is to attach the first cap and the second cap to either the first cap or the second cap in a direction parallel to the first lower plane portion and the second lower plane portion in a state in which the first stick and the second stick are combined. To provide a cane capable of preventing a first cap and a second cap from being unintentionally separated in a first lower plane part and a second lower plane part even if a force of (1) acts. A second object of the present invention is to prevent the first stick and the second stick from working together even if a force acts in the direction of separating the first cap and the second cap from each other while the first stick and the second stick are combined. To provide a cane capable of preventing the separation of a stick without removing it. A third object of the present invention is to separate the first stick and the second stick from the combined state and hold the first grip of the first stick and the second grip of the second stick with the left and right hands, respectively. The thickness of each of the first grip and the second grip does not become extremely thin as compared with the thickness of the grip when the first stick and the second stick are combined, and the user hardly feels a sense of incongruity, and the first grip does not feel uncomfortable. To provide a cane in which an uneven part and a second uneven part can exhibit anti-slip functions. A fourth object of the present invention is to be able to extend and retract the first and second shafts in stages, thereby adjusting the overall lengths of the first and second canes according to the user's height and usage conditions. It is to provide a cane.

A first aspect of the present invention, as shown in FIGS. A first grip 31 that is fitted to the upper end of the first shaft 21 and has a first upper plane portion 31a formed on the outer peripheral surface thereof that continues to the first main plane portion 21c; A first cane 11 having a first cap 41 formed with a first lower flat surface portion 41a connected to the flat surface portion 21c, and a second shaft 22 having a second main flat surface portion 22c extending longitudinally on the outer peripheral surface thereof. , a second grip 32 which is fitted to the upper end of the second shaft 22 and has a second upper plane portion 32a formed on the outer peripheral surface thereof which continues to the second main plane portion 22c; and a second cane 12 having a second cap 42 formed with a second lower plane portion 42a connected to the second main plane portion 22c, and a first main plane portion 21c and a first upper plane portion of the first stick 11. The hook-and-loop fastener 51, the permanent magnet, or the By fixing with a hook, the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 can be combined and used as one cane, and the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 can be separated and used as two canes. In the cane 10 that can be used, the first upper flat portion 31a of the first grip 31 is formed with the first uneven portion 31c, and the second upper flat portion 32a of the second grip 32 is formed with the second uneven portion 32c. By fitting the first uneven portion 31c and the second uneven portion 32c, the first upper flat portion 31a and the second upper flat portion 32a are brought into close contact , and the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are combined. Separately, the outer peripheral surface of the first grip 31 of the first cane 11 and the tip surface of the plurality of ridges of the first uneven portion 31c are grasped with one of the left and right hands, and the second cane 12 is gripped with one hand. When the outer peripheral surface of the second grip and the tip surface of the plurality of ridges of the second uneven portion 32c are gripped with the other of the left and right hands, the thickness of each of the first grip 31 and the second grip 32 is set to the second grip. It is characterized in that it is constructed so as not to be extremely thinner than the thickness of the grip when the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are combined .

A second aspect of the present invention is an invention based on the first aspect, and as further shown in FIGS. A first tubular portion 41c or a second tubular portion into which the second cap 42 or the first cap can be inserted protrudes from the second lower flat portion.

A third aspect of the present invention is an invention based on the first aspect, and further, as shown in FIGS. The grooved portions 31d and the projected portions 31e extending in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the oblique direction are alternately formed. The grooved portion 32d and the ridged portion 32e extending in the direction or oblique direction are alternately formed. By loosely inserting the ridge portion 32e of the uneven portion 32c into the groove portion 31d of the first uneven portion 31c and fitting the first uneven portion 31c and the second uneven portion 32c, the first upper flat portion 31a and the second uneven portion 32c are formed. It is characterized in that it is configured so as to be in close contact with the second upper flat portion 32a.

A fourth aspect of the present invention is an invention based on the first aspect, and as further shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the first shaft 21 includes a hollow first outer portion 21a and a The second shaft 22 is composed of a first inner portion 21b slidably accommodated in the portion 21a, a hollow second outer portion 22a, and a second shaft 22b slidably accommodated in the second outer portion 22a. The length of protrusion of the first inner portion 21b from the first outer portion 21a can be changed stepwise by a first length adjusting mechanism 61, and the second outer portion of the second inner portion 22b The projection length from the portion 22a is configured to be stepwise changeable by the second adjustment mechanism 62. As shown in FIG.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is an invention based on the fourth aspect, and further, as shown in FIGS. a plurality of first through holes 61a formed by opening, and a single first pin 61b that is built in the first inner portion 21b and can be selectively locked to the plurality of first through holes 61a, A second length adjustment mechanism 62 is provided in a plurality of second through holes 62a formed in the second outer portion 22a at intervals in the longitudinal direction and in a plurality of second through holes 62a built in the second inner portion 22b. It features a single selectively lockable second pin 62b.

In the cane of the first aspect of the present invention, the first uneven portion is formed on the first upper flat portion of the first grip, the second uneven portion is formed on the second upper flat portion of the second grip, and the first uneven portion is formed on the second upper flat portion of the second grip. By fitting the portion and the second concave-convex portion, the first upper flat portion and the second upper flat portion are in close contact with each other so that the first stick and the second stick are united. Even if a force in a direction parallel to the first lower plane portion and the second lower plane portion acts on the first cap in a state where the and the second cane are united, for example, the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion The fitting prevents the first cap from sliding within the first lower flat portion and the second lower flat portion with respect to the second cap. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first cap and the second cap from unintentionally separating within the first lower flat portion and the second lower flat portion. In addition, when the first stick and the second stick are separated from the combined state and the first grip of the first stick and the second grip of the second stick are grasped with the left and right hands respectively, the first grip is held with one hand. and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of projections of the first uneven portion, and the other hand grips the outer circumferential surface of the second grip and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of projections of the second uneven portion. As a result, the thickness of each of the first grip and the second grip does not become extremely thin compared to the thickness of the grip when the first stick and the second stick are combined, so that the user hardly feels discomfort. In addition, the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion can exhibit anti-slip functions.

In the cane of the second aspect of the present invention, the second cap or the first cap can be inserted into the first lower flat portion of the first cap or the second lower flat portion of the second cap. Since the tubular portion is protruded, after the second cap or the first cap is inserted into the first tubular portion or the second tubular portion, the first concave-convex portion and the second concave-convex portion are fitted to form the second cap. Even if a force acts in a direction to separate the first cap and the second cap from each other in a state in which the first stick and the second stick are combined, the first and second caps are prevented from separating from each other by the first cylindrical shape. or the second cylindrical portion blocks. As a result, unintentional separation of the first and second canes can be prevented.

In the cane according to the third aspect of the present invention, the first concave-convex portion is formed by alternately arranging concave portions and convex portions extending in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the oblique direction on the first upper flat portion of the first grip. The second concave-convex portion is formed by alternately lining up recessed line portions and convex line portions extending in the vertical direction, the horizontal direction, or the oblique direction on the second upper flat portion of the second grip. part is loosely inserted into the recessed line portion of the second uneven portion, and the projected line portion of the second uneven portion is loosely inserted into the recessed line portion of the first uneven portion, so that the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion are fitted. As a result, the first upper flat portion and the second upper flat portion are configured to be in close contact with each other. Even if a force acts in a direction parallel to the second lower flat portion, the ridge portion of the first uneven portion is loosely inserted into the ridge portion of the second uneven portion, and the ridge portion of the second uneven portion becomes the first uneven portion. The first cap is loosely inserted into the recessed line portion of the second cap by fitting the recessed line portion and the projected line portion of the first uneven portion with the projected line portion and the recessed line portion of the second uneven portion. There is no sliding within the first lower flat portion and the second lower flat portion. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first cap and the second cap from unintentionally separating within the first lower flat portion and the second lower flat portion. In addition, when the first stick and the second stick are separated from the combined state and the first grip of the first stick and the second grip of the second stick are grasped with the left and right hands respectively, the first grip is held with one hand. grip the outer peripheral surface of the second grip and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of ridges of the first uneven portion, and grip the outer peripheral surface of the second grip and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of ridges of the second uneven portion with the other hand. . As a result, the thickness of each of the first grip and the second grip does not become extremely thin compared to the thickness of the grip when the first stick and the second stick are combined, so that the user hardly feels discomfort. In addition, the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion can exhibit anti-slip functions.

In the cane according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the length of protrusion of the first inner portion from the first outer portion can be changed stepwise by the first length adjustment mechanism, and the length of the second inner portion from the second outer portion can be changed stepwise. Since the projection length can be changed stepwise by the second adjustment mechanism, the total lengths of the first stick and the second stick can be adjusted according to the user's height and usage conditions.

In the stick according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the single first pin of the first inner portion is selectively engaged with the plurality of first through holes of the first outer portion, thereby The protruding length from the first outer portion can be changed in stages, and the single second pin of the second inner portion is selectively engaged with the plurality of second through holes of the second outer portion, The length of protrusion of the second inner portion from the second outer portion can be changed stepwise. As a result, the total lengths of the first cane and the second cane can be adjusted according to the user's height and usage conditions.

(a) is a perspective view showing a state in which the first cane and the second cane of the first embodiment of the present invention are united, and (b) is a separated state of the first cane and the second cane of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows a state. Fig. 10 is a front view with the main parts cut away showing the states before and after the first grip is fitted to the upper end of the first shaft of the first cane; Fig. 10 is a front view with the main parts cut away showing the state before and after the second grip is inserted into the upper end of the second shaft of the second cane; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA of FIG. 1; FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 1; It is a principal part perspective view which shows the state before and behind inserting a 2nd cap in the cylindrical part of the 1st cap of the cane. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the main part showing the states before and after inserting the second cap into the tubular portion of the first cap of the cane. (a) is a front view of the second cane showing a state in which the second inner portion protrudes most from the second outer portion, and (b) shows a state in which the second inner portion is most accommodated in the second outer portion; It is a front view of a second cane. 10. (a) is a sectional view taken along line CC of FIG. 10, and (b) is a sectional view taken along line DD of FIG. (a) is a cross-sectional view along the EE line in FIG. 9, and (b) is a cross-sectional view along the FF line in FIG. 12(a) is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. 12, and FIG. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view along line HH in FIG. 11. (a) is a sectional view taken along the line II of FIG. 11, and (b) is a sectional view taken along the line JJ of FIG.

Next, the form for implementing this invention is demonstrated based on drawing.

<First Embodiment>
As shown in FIG. 1, the cane 10 includes a first shaft 21, a first grip 31 fitted on the upper end of the first shaft 21, and a first cap 41 fitted on the lower end of the first shaft 21. a first cane 11, a second shaft 22, a second grip 32 fitted to the upper end of the second shaft 22, and a second cap 42 fitted to the lower end of the second shaft 22. 12. The first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 are each formed in a substantially semi-cylindrical shape from a composite material of carbon fiber and epoxy resin, an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy, or the like. The first shaft 21 is composed of a hollow first outer portion 21a and a hollow first inner portion 21b slidably accommodated in the first outer portion 21a. It consists of a second outer portion 22a and a hollow second inner portion 22b slidably accommodated in the second outer portion 22a (FIGS. 1, 9 and 10). The first outer portion 21a is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape, and the first inner portion 21b is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape slightly smaller than the first outer portion 21a (FIGS. 6 and 9). Thereby, the first inner portion 21b is slidably accommodated in the first outer portion 21a. Further, the second outer portion 22a is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape, and the second inner portion 22b is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape slightly smaller than the second outer portion 22a. Thereby, the second inner portion 22b is slidably accommodated in the second outer portion 22a.

A first main plane portion 21c and a second main plane portion 22c extending in the longitudinal direction are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first shaft 21 and the outer peripheral surface of the second shaft 22, respectively (FIGS. 1, 6, 9 and 9). Figure 10). As the material of the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22, by using a material with a small specific gravity and high strength such as a composite material of carbon fiber and epoxy resin, an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy, etc. as described above, the first shaft Even if 21 and the second shaft 22 are combined and used, the user does not feel a sense of weight. It is designed not to make you feel intense anxiety.

On the other hand, the first grip 31 and the second grip 32 are made of polyamide resin (nylon resin, etc.), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin, polyester resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, glass fiber reinforced resin, carbon fiber reinforced resin, A first upper flat surface portion 31a and a second upper flat surface portion 32a are formed on the outer peripheral surface, respectively, which are formed of an aluminum alloy, a magnesium alloy, or the like in a substantially T-shape, and are continuous with the first main flat surface portion 21c and the second main flat surface portion 22c. (Figs. 1-4). A first upper hole 31b having a substantially half-moon cross section is formed in the lower surface of the first grip 31, and a second upper hole 32b having a substantially half-moon cross section is formed in the lower surface of the second grip 32 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). Figure 3). A first upper fitting portion 21d having a smaller diameter than the other portion of the first upper portion 21a is formed at the upper end portion of the first upper portion 21a of the first shaft 21. A second upper fitting portion 22d having a smaller diameter than the other portion of the second upper portion 22a is formed at the upper end portion. The first grip 31 is attached to the first shaft 21 by fitting the first upper hole 31b into the first upper fitting portion 21d, and the second upper hole 32b is fitted into the second upper fitting portion 22d. , a second grip 32 is attached to the second shaft 22 . Although not shown, after the first grip 31 is attached to the first shaft 21, the first grip 31 is fixed to the first shaft 21 by a rivet, a screw, an adhesive, or the like to prevent it from coming off. After attaching the second grip 32 to the shaft 22 , the second grip 32 is fixed to the second shaft 22 with a rivet, a screw, an adhesive, or the like to prevent it from coming off.

A first uneven portion 31c is formed on the first upper flat portion 31a of the first grip 31, and a second uneven portion 32c is formed on the second upper flat portion 32a of the second grip 32 (FIGS. 1 to 4). ). The first concave-convex portion 31c has a concave portion 31d (concave portion) and a convex portion 31e (convex portion) extending vertically in a portion of the first upper flat portion 31a of the first grip 31 excluding the outer peripheral edge and the lower portion. They are arranged alternately (FIGS. 4 and 5). The second concave-convex portion 32c includes a concave portion 32d (concave portion) and a convex portion 32e (convex portion) extending vertically in a portion of the second upper flat portion 32a of the second grip 32 excluding the outer peripheral edge and the lower portion. ) are formed alternately. On the other hand, the depth of the concave portion 31d of the first concave-convex portion 31c is formed to a depth that can ensure a predetermined thickness of the first grip 31, and the depth of the concave portion 32d of the second concave-convex portion 32c is the depth of the second grip 32. It is formed to a depth that can ensure a predetermined thickness of. Also, the height and thickness of the protrusion 31e of the first uneven portion 31c are slightly smaller than the depth and width of the recess 32d of the second uneven portion 32c, and the height of the protrusion 32e of the second uneven portion 32c The thickness and thickness are formed slightly smaller than the depth and width of the concave portion 31d of the first uneven portion 31c. Then, the convex portion 31e of the first concave-convex portion 31c is loosely inserted into the concave portion 32d of the second concave-convex portion 32, and the convex portion 32e of the second concave-convex portion 32c is loosely inserted into the concave portion 31d of the first concave-convex portion 31c. By fitting the portion 31c and the second uneven portion 32c, the first upper flat portion 31a and the second upper flat portion 32a are configured to be in close contact with each other.

The first cap 41 and the second cap 42 are made of polyamide resin (nylon resin, etc.), ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) resin, polyester resin, polycarbonate resin, polyacetal resin, glass fiber reinforced resin, carbon fiber reinforced resin, hard rubber. A first lower plane portion 41a and a second lower plane portion 42a are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the aluminum alloy, magnesium alloy, or the like so as to have a substantially U-shaped vertical cross section, and are connected to the first main plane portion 21c and the second main plane portion 22c. formed respectively (FIGS. 1, 6 and 7). A first lower hole 41b having a substantially half-moon cross section is formed in the upper surface of the first cap 41, and a second lower hole 42b having a substantially half-moon cross section is formed in the upper surface of the second cap 42 (Fig. 6). By fitting the first inner portion 21b into the first lower hole 41b, the first cap 41 is attached to the first shaft 21. By fitting the second inner portion 22b into the second lower hole 42b, the second cap 41 is fitted. A second cap 42 is attached to the second shaft 22 (FIGS. 6 and 7). Further, a first cylindrical portion 41c is protruded from the first lower flat portion 41a of the first cap 41 . The first tubular portion 41c is formed in a semi-cylindrical shape into which the second cap 42 can be inserted (FIGS. 1, 6 and 7). Although not shown, after the first cap 41 is attached to the first shaft 21, the first cap 41 is fixed to the first shaft 21 with a rivet, screw, adhesive, or the like to prevent it from coming off. After attaching the second cap 42 to the shaft 22, the second cap 42 is fixed to the second shaft 22 with rivets, screws, adhesives, or the like to prevent it from coming off.

On the other hand, the first main plane portion 21c, the first upper plane portion 31 and the first lower plane portion 41a of the first stick 11 are replaced by the second main plane portion 22c, the second upper plane portion 32a and the second lower plane portion 32a of the second stick 12. The first stick 11 and the second stick 12 can be combined together by fixing them with hook-and-loop fasteners 51 in a state where they face the flat portions 42a (FIGS. 1, 9 and 10). In this embodiment, the hook-and-loop fastener 51 includes a sheet-type hook-and-loop fastener 52 capable of tightly fixing the first main plane portion 21c of the first shaft 21 and the second main plane portion 22c of the second shaft 22, and the first shaft 21 and a belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 wound around and fixed to the upper part of the second shaft 22 . The sheet type hook-and-loop fastener 52 consists of a first belt-shaped sheet 52a with a ring-shaped protrusion attached to the first main plane portion 21c of the first outer portion 21a of the first shaft 21, and a second outer portion 22a of the second shaft 22. and a second belt-shaped sheet 52b with hook-shaped protrusions attached to the second main plane portion 22c. The first outer portion 21a and the second outer portion 22a are brought into close contact with each other through the sheet type hook-and-loop fastener 52 by engaging the ring-shaped projection of the first belt-shaped sheet 52a with the hook-shaped projection of the second belt-shaped sheet 52b. Fixed. The belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 is formed by adhering a first band-shaped sheet with ring-shaped projections and a second band-shaped sheet with hook-shaped projections back-to-back (FIGS. 1 and 8). . Then, the base end portion of the belt type hook-and-loop fastener 53 is wrapped around the upper portion of the first shaft 21 and fixed, and the second main plane portion 22c of the second shaft 22 is attached to the first main plane portion 21c of the first shaft 21. After the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 is wound around the upper part of the second shaft 22 , the hook-shaped projection or the ring-shaped projection at the tip of the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 is fitted to the ring-shaped projection at the base end of the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 . The upper portions of the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 are fixed by the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 by engaging with the projections or hook-shaped projections.

On the other hand, the length of protrusion of the first inner portion 21b from the first outer portion 21a can be changed stepwise by the first length adjustment mechanism 61, and the length of protrusion of the second inner portion 22b from the second outer portion 22a is The length is configured to be stepwise changeable by the second adjustment mechanism 62 (FIGS. 9 and 10). The first length adjusting mechanism 61 includes a plurality of first through holes 61a formed in the first outer portion 21a of the first shaft 21 at intervals in the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of first through holes 61a built in the first inner portion 21b. It has a single first pin 61b that can be selectively locked in one through hole 61a. The plurality of first through holes 61a are formed in the curved surface opposite to the first main plane portion 21c. The first pin 61b is detachably inserted into the first through hole 61a and has a hemispherical tip. A cylindrical first spring holding shaft 61d having a diameter smaller than that of the first stopper 61c protrudes from the plane of the first stopper 61c opposite to the first pin 61b. Further, in the vicinity of the upper end of the first inner portion 21b of the first shaft 21, when the first inner portion 21b is inserted into the first outer portion 21a and slid, a plurality of first through holes 61a are selectively formed. A single first through hole 61e is formed which coincides with the first through hole 61a and has the same diameter as the first through hole 61a, and a first compression coil spring 61f is loosely fitted on the first spring holding shaft 61d.

The second length adjusting mechanism 62 includes a plurality of second through holes 62a formed in the second outer portion 22a of the second shaft 22 at intervals in the longitudinal direction, and a plurality of second through holes 62a built in the second inner portion 22b. and a single second pin 62b selectively lockable in the two through holes 62a (FIGS. 9 and 10). The plurality of second through holes 62a are formed in the curved surface opposite to the second main plane portion 22c. The second pin 62b is detachably inserted into the second through hole 62a and has a hemispherical tip. A cylindrical second spring holding shaft 62d having a diameter smaller than that of the second stopper 62c protrudes from the plane of the second stopper 62c opposite to the second pin 62b. Furthermore, in the vicinity of the upper end of the second inner portion 22b of the second shaft 22, when the second inner portion 22b is inserted into the second outer portion 22a and slid, a plurality of second through holes 62a are selectively formed. A single second through hole 62e that matches and has the same diameter as the second through hole 62a is formed, and a second compression coil spring 62f is loosely fitted on the second spring retaining shaft 62d.

A method of using the cane 10 configured in this way will be described. The state in which the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 are separated (Fig. 1(b)) is changed to the state in which the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 are united (Fig. 1(a)). The second cap 42 of the second stick 12 is inserted into the first cylindrical portion 41c of the first cap 41 of the first stick 11 from obliquely above as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 7(a). Next, the second grip 32 of the second cane 12 is brought close to the first grip portion 31 of the first cane 11 (FIGS. 4A and 5A), and the first uneven portion 31c of the first grip 31 is The second uneven portion 32c of the second grip 32 is fitted to (FIGS. 4(b) and 5(b)). At this time, the sheet type attached to the second outer portion 22a of the second shaft 22 is attached to the ring-shaped protrusion of the first belt-shaped sheet 52a of the sheet type hook-and-loop fastener 52 attached to the first outer portion 21a of the first shaft 21. Since the hook-shaped projections of the second belt-shaped sheet 52b of the hook-and-loop fastener 52 are engaged, the first outer portion 21a of the first shaft 21 and the second outer portion 22a of the second shaft 22 are brought into close contact via the sheet-type hook-and-loop fastener 52. Fixed. Furthermore, after the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 whose base end is wound and fixed around the upper part of the first shaft 21 is wound around the upper part of the second shaft 22, the hook-shaped projection or the ring-shaped projection at the tip of the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 is The protrusion is engaged with the ring-shaped or hook-shaped protrusion at the proximal end of the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener 53 . As a result, the upper portions of the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 are fixed by the belt type hook-and-loop fastener 53 (FIG. 1(a)).

When the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 are combined, the first concave-convex portion 31c of the first grip 31 and the second concave-convex portion 32c of the second grip 32 are fitted to form the first upper flat portion 31a. Since the second upper flat surface portion 32a is in close contact with the first cap 41, even if a force in a direction parallel to the first lower flat surface portion 41a and the second lower flat surface portion 42a acts on the first cap 41, the first concave-convex portion 31c and the second concave-convex portion 32c are fitted to each other, and the sheet-type surface fastener 52 and the belt-type surface fastener 53 fix the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 in a united state. do not slide with respect to the second cap 42 within the first lower flat portion 41a and the second lower flat portion 42a. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first cap 41 and the second cap 42 from unintentionally separating within the first lower flat portion 41a and the second lower flat portion 42a. Also, the second cap 42 is inserted into the first tubular portion 41c of the first cap 41, and the sheet surface fastener 52 and the belt surface fastener 53 fix the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 together. Therefore, even if a force acts in the direction of separating the first cap 41 and the second cap 42, the first cylindrical portion 41c prevents the first cap 41 and the second cap 42 from separating from each other. . As a result, it is possible to prevent the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 from unintentionally separating.

On the other hand, to change the state in which the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are united (FIG. 1(a)) to the state in which the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are separated (FIG. 1(b)), Reverse the procedure above. When the first grip 31 of the first cane 11 and the second grip 32 of the second cane 12 are gripped with the left and right hands, respectively, the outer peripheral surface of the first grip 31 and the plurality of first uneven portions 31c can be grasped with one hand. The other hand grips the outer peripheral surface of the second grip 32 and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of protrusions 32e of the second uneven portion 32c. As a result, the thickness of each of the first grip 31 and the second grip 32 does not become extremely thin compared to the thickness of the grip when the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are combined, so that the user hardly feels discomfort. The first uneven portion 31c and the second uneven portion 32c can exhibit anti-slip functions without causing the user to hold it.

On the other hand, in a state in which the first stick 11 and the second stick 12 are combined, the first length adjusting mechanism 61 changes the projection length of the first inner part 21b from the first outer part 21a in stages, In order to change the length of protrusion of the inner portion 22b from the second outer portion 22a stepwise by the second adjusting mechanism 62, first, as shown in FIGS. 9(a) and 10(a), the first pin 61 b and second pin 62 b are pushed into first shaft 21 and second shaft 22 with finger 63 . Next, in this state, the first inner portion 21b and the second inner portion 22b are simultaneously pushed into the first outer portion 21a and the second outer portion 22a in the directions indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. 10(a). At this time, since the tips of the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b are formed in a hemispherical shape, the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b come out of the first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a, The first inner portion 21b and the second inner portion 22b slide relative to the first outer portion 21a and the second outer portion 22a. Then, when the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b reach positions facing the first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a adjacent to the removed first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a, the The first pin 61b and the second pin 62b are inserted into the first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a, respectively, by the elastic force of the first compression coil spring 61f and the second compression coil spring 62f.

In this manner, the single first pin 61b formed in the first inner portion 21b is selectively engaged with the plurality of first through holes 61a formed in the first outer portion 21a, thereby The protruding length of the inner portion 21b from the first outer portion 21a can be changed stepwise, and the plurality of second through holes 62a formed in the second outer portion 22a have a single through hole 62a formed in the second inner portion 22b. By selectively locking the second pin 62b, the projection length of the second inner portion 22b from the second outer portion 22a can be changed stepwise. As a result, the total lengths of the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 can be adjusted according to the user's height and usage conditions.

<Second Embodiment>
11 and 12 show a second embodiment of the invention. 11 and 12, the same reference numerals as in FIGS. 9 and 10 denote the same parts. In this embodiment, a first U-shaped spring 81a is used as an elastic body that biases the first pin 61b of the first length adjusting mechanism 81 in the direction of insertion into the first through hole 61e and the first through hole 61a. A second U-shaped spring 82a is used as an elastic body that biases the second pin 62b of the second length adjusting mechanism 82 in the direction of insertion into the second through hole 62e and the second through hole 62a. The first U-shaped spring 81a is formed by bending a first spring body 81b formed by bending a wire spring steel into a substantially U shape, and by bending one end of the first spring body 81b outward at a substantially right angle. and a formed first bent portion 81c. Both ends of the first U-shaped spring 81a are elastically deformed in a direction away from each other, whereby the first bent portion 81c is inserted into the first insertion hole 81d formed in the center of the first stopper 61c, and the first insertion hole 81d is inserted into the first insertion hole 81d. The other end of the spring body 81b is pressed against the inner surface of the first inner portion 21b, and the first pin 61b is biased in the direction of being inserted into the first through hole 61e and the first through hole 61a. The second U-shaped spring 82a includes a second spring main body 82b formed by bending a wire spring steel into a substantially U shape, and one end of the second spring main body 82b being bent outward at a substantially right angle. and a second bent portion 82c formed by Both ends of the second U-shaped spring 82a are elastically deformed in directions away from each other, whereby the second bent portion 82c is inserted into the second insertion hole 82d formed in the center of the second stopper 62c, and the second spring is The other end of the main body 82b is pressed against the inner surface of the second inner portion 22b, and the second pin 62b is biased in the direction of being inserted into the second through hole 62e and the second through hole 62a. The configuration other than the above is the same as that of the first embodiment.

In the cane configured as described above, the length of protrusion of the first inner portion 21b from the first outer portion 21a is adjusted in stages by the first length adjusting mechanism 81 in a state in which the first cane 11 and the second cane 12 are combined. 11(a) and 12(a). As shown, the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b are pushed into the first shaft 21 and the second shaft 22 with a finger 63. As shown in FIG. Next, in this state, the first inner portion 21b and the second inner portion 22b are simultaneously pushed into the first outer portion 21a and the second outer portion 22a in the directions indicated by the dashed arrows in FIG. 12(a). At this time, since the tips of the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b are formed in a hemispherical shape, the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b come out of the first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a, The first inner portion 21b and the second inner portion 22b slide relative to the first outer portion 21a and the second outer portion 22a. Then, when the first pin 61b and the second pin 62b reach positions facing the first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a adjacent to the removed first through hole 61a and the second through hole 62a, the The 1st pin 61b and the 2nd pin 62b are inserted into the 1st through hole 61a and the 2nd through hole 62a that have reached the facing positions by the elastic forces of the first U-shaped spring 81a and the second U-shaped spring 82a, respectively. Since operations other than the above are substantially the same as those of the first embodiment, repeated description will be omitted.

In the above-described first and second embodiments, the first concave and convex portions are formed by alternately arranging concave portions (concave portion) and convex portions (convex portion) extending in the vertical direction on the first upper flat portion of the first grip. The second uneven portion is formed by alternately arranging concave portions (concave portion) and convex portions (convex portion) extending in the vertical direction on the second upper flat portion of the second grip. A first concave-convex portion is formed by alternately arranging concave portions (concave portion) and convex portions (convex portion) extending in a horizontal direction or an oblique direction on the upper flat portion, and a horizontal or oblique direction is formed on the second upper flat portion. The second concave-convex portion may be formed by alternately arranging concave portions (concave portion) and convex portions (convex portion) extending to the upper plane portion, or column-shaped concave portions and column-shaped convex portions may be formed on the first upper plane portion. The first uneven portion is formed by arranging them alternately like a grid, and the second uneven portion is formed by alternately arranging columnar recesses and columnar protrusions on the second upper plane portion in a grid pattern. You may In addition, in the first and second embodiments, the first tubular portion into which the second cap can be inserted is protruded from the first lower flat portion of the first cap, but the second lower flat portion of the second cap is provided. A second cylindrical portion into which the first cap can be inserted may be projected. In addition, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the first shaft and the second shaft are seated in a state in which the first main plane portion of the first shaft faces the second main plane portion of the second shaft. The grip was fixed by the type surface fastener and the belt type surface fastener, but the entire grip was placed on the surface with the first upper flat portion and the second upper flat portion being in close contact with each other by fitting the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion. It can be fixed with fasteners. Furthermore, in the above-described first and second embodiments, the flat portions of the first stick are aligned with the flat portions of the second stick and fixed with the sheet-type hook-and-loop fastener and the belt-type hook-and-loop fastener. The planar portions of the first stick may be opposed to the planar portions of the second stick and fixed with permanent magnets or hooks.

10 cane 11 first cane 12 second cane 21 first shaft 21a first outer portion 21b first inner portion 21c first main plane portion 22 second shaft 22a second outer portion 22b second inner portion 22c second main plane portion 31 First grip 31a First upper flat portion 31c First concave-convex portion 31d Concave portion (concave portion) of the first concave-convex portion
31e Convex part (convex strip part) of the first concave-convex part
32 Second grip 32a Second main plane portion 32c Second concave-convex portion 32d Concave portion (concave portion) of second concave-convex portion
32e Convex part (protruding part) of the second concave-convex part
41 1st cap 41a 1st lower flat portion 41c 1st cylindrical portion 42 2nd cap 42a 2nd lower flat portion 51 hook-and-loop fastener 61, 81 first length adjusting mechanism 61a first through hole 61b first pin 62, 82 Second length adjustment mechanism 62a Second through hole 62b Second pin

Claims (5)

A first shaft having an outer peripheral surface formed with a first main flat portion extending in the longitudinal direction, and a first upper flat portion inserted into the upper end of the first shaft and continuing to the first main flat portion formed on the outer peripheral surface. a first cane having a first grip, a first cap fitted to the lower end of the first shaft and formed with a first lower flat portion on the outer peripheral surface thereof connected to the first main flat portion; and a longitudinal direction on the outer peripheral surface. a second shaft formed with a second main plane portion extending inward; a second grip fitted into the upper end of the second shaft and formed with a second upper plane portion connected to the second main plane portion on the outer peripheral surface thereof; a second cap having a second cap that is fitted to the lower end of the second shaft and has a second lower flat surface formed on an outer peripheral surface thereof, the second cap being continuous with the second main flat surface; Hook-and-loop fasteners or permanent fasteners are attached in a state in which the plane portion, the first upper plane portion, and the first lower plane portion are opposed to the second main plane portion, the second upper plane portion, and the second lower plane portion of the second cane, respectively. By fixing with a magnet or a hook, the first stick and the second stick can be combined and used as one stick, and the first stick and the second stick can be separated and used as two sticks. A cane that can also be used for
A first uneven portion is formed on the first upper flat portion of the first grip,
A second uneven portion is formed on the second upper flat portion of the second grip,
By fitting the first concave-convex portion and the second concave-convex portion, the first upper flat portion and the second upper flat portion are brought into close contact ,
The first cane and the second cane are separated from the combined state, and the outer peripheral surface of the first grip of the first cane and the distal end surfaces of the plurality of ridges of the first concave-convex portion are separated from each other by the left and right hands. When grasping with one hand and grasping the outer peripheral surface of the second grip of the second cane and the tip surface of the plurality of ridges of the second uneven portion with the other hand of the left and right hands, A cane characterized in that the respective thicknesses of the first grip and the second grip are configured so as not to be extremely thinner than the thickness of the grip when the first cane and the second cane are combined . A first cylindrical portion or a second cylindrical portion into which the second cap or the first cap can be inserted protrudes from the first lower flat portion of the first cap or the second lower flat portion of the second cap. The cane of claim 1. The first concave-convex portion is formed by alternately lining up a concave portion and a convex portion extending in a vertical direction, a horizontal direction, or an oblique direction on a first upper flat portion of the first grip, and the second concave-convex portion is formed by: Vertically, laterally or obliquely extending grooved portions and ridged portions are alternately formed on the second upper flat portion of the second grip, and the ridged portion of the first rugged portion is aligned with the second rugged portion. and loosely inserting the convex portion of the second uneven portion into the concave portion of the first uneven portion to fit the first uneven portion and the second uneven portion. 2. The cane according to claim 1, wherein said first upper flat portion and said second upper flat portion are in close contact with each other. The first shaft includes a hollow first outer portion and a first inner portion slidably accommodated in the first outer portion, and the second shaft includes a hollow second outer portion and the first inner portion. and a second inner portion slidably accommodated in the second outer portion, and the projection length of the first inner portion from the first outer portion can be changed stepwise by a first length adjustment mechanism. 2. The cane according to claim 1, wherein the length of projection of said second inner portion from said second outer portion can be changed stepwise by a second adjusting mechanism. The first length adjusting mechanism is selected from a plurality of first through holes formed in the first outer portion at intervals in the longitudinal direction and the plurality of first through holes built in the first inner portion. a single first pin that can be effectively locked, and the second length adjustment mechanism includes a plurality of second through holes formed in the second outer portion at intervals in the longitudinal direction; 5. The cane according to claim 4, further comprising a single second pin built into the second inner portion and selectively engageable with the plurality of second through holes.

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