US20160255926A1

US20160255926A1 - Walking stick

Info

Publication number: US20160255926A1
Application number: US14/425,636
Authority: US
Inventors: Mun Hwa Jung
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-09-11
Filing date: 2014-09-11
Publication date: 2016-09-08
Also published as: CN105392534A

Abstract

Provided is a walking stick which can be conveniently and safely used for mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons without difficulty and inconvenience in walking when a user descends from a high place or ascends from a low place. To this end, the walking stick includes a stick body having a long shape and at least one bending part formed on the stick body.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following disclosure relates to a walking stick, and in particular, to a walking stick which is used by persons such as mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons in order to maintain the balance of the body or reduce the load applied to the lower body.

BACKGROUND ART

In general, a walking stick, which is used to maintain the balance of the body or reduce the load applied to the lower body, is also called a rod, a wand, a staff, or a cane, and is being widely used by mountain climbers, travelers, old people and disabled persons.
Due to the increase of older people according to aging population and the increase of the climbing and traveling populations according to the improvement of the quality of life, the demands for such walking sticks are also increasing day by day. Also, the importance of walking sticks is increasing as a walking assistance device for patients who have difficulty in moving and walking.
Hereinafter, a walking stick will be described in more detail.
A walking stick serves to keep the balance of the body and disperse a force applied to the lower body when a user climbs a mountain, walks along the ridge of a mountain, or climbs down a mountain, when a user walks on a flatland or goes downhill, or when a user goes up and down the stairs. Particularly, the walking stick lessens a load applied to joints such as the knee joint by dispersing a portion of the body weight into the hands and arms of a user, thereby assisting a user in climbing a mountain and walking around more safely and comfortably while protecting his/her body.
A typical walking stick includes a stick body having a long and straight shape, a grip disposed on the upper end of the stick body, and a support tip disposed on the lower end of the stick body, having a sharp shape and supporting the ground surface. Furthermore, the walking sticks are roughly classified into a straight grip having the same longitudinal direction as the stick body and a T-shaped grip orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the stick body.
The straight grip is effective in climbing a mounting, walking up the incline, or going up the stairs, whereas the T-shaped grip is effective in climbing down a mountain, going downhill, or going down the stairs. Since the body more greatly depends on the stick when a user descends from a high place, the T-shaped grip that can be stably gripped by a user is more effective.
Thus, even though the grip differs in shape to increase the convenience for use, improve the function and ensure the safety between a case of descending from a high place and a case of ascending from a low place, the walking sticks are being manufactured only into the foregoing two types of grips.
Also, since a user cannot sufficiently use the elasticity of the straight grip and the T-shaped grip, a user relies only on the muscular strength when using a walking stick.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

Accordingly, the present disclosure provides a walking stick which can be conveniently and safely used for mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons, by utilizing the elasticity of the stick structure and an ergonomic function of stick parts and thus minimizing difficulty and inconvenience in walking and reducing the load applied to the body when a user descends from a high place or ascends from a low place.
Besides the foregoing technical objectives specified in this disclosure, the present invention also include other technical objectives which can be achieved from the constitution of the present invention described later.

Technical Solution

In one general aspect, a walking stick includes: a stick body having a long shape; and at least one bending part formed on the stick body.
The stick body may be bent in a circular arc or elliptic arc shape as a whole by the at least one bending part.
The least one bending part may include: a first bending part formed on an upper half part of the stick body; and a second bending part formed on a lower half part of the stick body.
The stick body may include: an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part; and a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part.
The upper end portion or the lower end portion may be bent at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees.
The first bending part or the second bending part may have an angular shape.
The first bending part or the second bending part may have a round shape.
The at least one bending part may further include a third bending part disposed on a central portion of the stick body.
The stick body may include: an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part; a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part; and the central portion forming an obtuse angle in an opposite direction to the first direction by the third bending part.
At least one of the upper end portion, the lower end portion, and the central portion may be bent at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees.
At least one of the first, second, and third bending parts may have an angular shape.
At least one of the first, second, and third bending parts may have a round shape.
The stick body may include: an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part; a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part; and the central portion bent in a convex arc or elliptical arc shape toward the first direction by the third bending part.
The walking stick may further include: a grip disposed on an upper end portion of the stick body; and a support member disposed on a lower end portion of the stick body to support a ground surface.
The stick body may be divided into first, second, and third stick bodies, and the walking stick may further include a length adjusting part that adjusts a length of the stick body between the first and second stick bodies and between the second and third stick bodies.
The length adjusting part may include: an insertion hole formed in the first stick body and into which the second stick body is inserted; a fastener for fastening the second stick body to the first stick body; an insertion hole formed in the second stick body and into which the third stick body is inserted; and a fastener for fastening the third stick body to the second stick body.
The second stick body may include a scale marked on an outer circumferential surface thereof.
The support member may include an end portion surface forming one of right angle, obtuse angle, or acute angle with respect to a longitudinal direction of the support member.
The support member may have a cone-shaped recess formed on an end portion surface thereof, an inner diameter of the cone-shaped recess gradually decreasing toward the stick body, or may have an unevenness formed on the end portion surface thereof.
The support member may have a circular arc-shaped recess formed on an end thereof, the circular arc-shaped recess being recessed toward the support member.
The walking stick may include a protection cap detachably disposed on an end of the surface member.
The support member may be detachably coupled to the stick body.
The walking stick may include a ring part rotatably disposed an end of the grip, wherein the ring part may include: a wrist ring surrounding a wrist of a user; a thumb strap surrounding a thumb of a user; and a fixing member for fixing the thumb strap while the thumb strap is wound around the thumb.
The grip may have a stopping groove formed on an outer circumferential surface thereof such that the wrist ring or the thumb strap is caught in the stopping groove.
Other features and aspects will be apparent from the following detailed description, the drawings, and the claims.

Advantageous Effects

As described above, a walking stick according to an embodiment of the present invention may have the following effects.
According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one bending part may be provided on the stick body. Accordingly, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity. On the other hand, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body, protecting the knee joint.
Eventually, when mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons walk on a flatland, descend from a high place, and ascend from a low place, they can feel comfortable and safe without difficulty and inconvenience.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, the first, second and third bending parts may be provided on the stick body. That is, since a substantially “M”-shaped stick body bent many times in a zigzag pattern is provided, the first to third bending parts can provide more sufficient elasticity compared to two bending parts when a user ascends from a low place or descends from a high place. Accordingly, without a separate shock-absorbing part, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity. On the other hand, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body, protecting the knee joint.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a length adjusting part is further provided, the length of the walking stick can be adjusted in accordance with the body size of a user, and the whole length of the walking stick can be shortened when the walking stick is not used, thereby improving convenience and portability in use.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a friction enhancing structure is provided on the end portion surface of the support member in order to increase the friction with the ground surface, the increase of friction can allow a user to more safely walk on the icy road or slippery rock.
Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, since an attachable and detachable protection cap is further provided on the end portion of the support member, the protection cap can cover the end portion of the support member at ordinary time or during the carrying of the walking stick, thereby preventing roads and mountains from being damaged by the support member and minimizing injury risks that may be caused by the support member.
In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a ring part that is rotatable and includes a wrist ring and a thumb strap is provided, a user can hold the grip in an appropriate direction so as to effectively use the elasticity of the walking stick on uphill and downhill roads, thereby providing a more convenient and safe walking assistance function. Particularly, when a force of the thumb is strongly used, the load applied to the body (particularly, lower body) at a downhill road can be effectively dispersed.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a modified example of the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a view illustrating various exemplary friction enhancing structures of a support member in the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a view illustrating other exemplary friction enhancing structures of a support member in the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5A is a view illustrating various exemplary protection caps of the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5B is a view illustrating a support member detachably coupled to the stick body of the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a ring part of the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7A is a view illustrating a wrist and a thumb wound by the ring part of FIG. 6;

FIG. 7B is a view illustrating a modified example of FIG. 7A, in which a wrist ring is caught by a stopping groove of a grip;

FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a user ascending from a low place using the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a user descending from a high place using the walking stick of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a modified example of the walking stick of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a user ascending from a low place using the walking stick of FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a user descending from a high place using the walking stick of FIG. 11; and

FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

MODE FOR INVENTION

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the drawings and the detailed description, unless otherwise described, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same elements, features, and structures. The relative size and depiction of these elements may be exaggerated for clarity, illustration, and convenience. The following detailed description is provided to assist the reader in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the methods, apparatuses, and/or systems described herein. Accordingly, various changes, modifications, and equivalents of the methods, apparatuses, and/or systems described herein will be suggested to those of ordinary skill in the art. Also, descriptions of well-known functions and constructions may be omitted for increased clarity and conciseness.
FIG. 1 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
As described in FIG. 1, a walking stick according to a first embodiment of the present invention may include a stick body 10 having a long shape. Particularly, the stick body 10 may include at least one bending part (see B1 or B2). Accordingly, when a user ascends from a low place or descends from a high place, sufficient elasticity can be given through at least one bending part (see B1 or B2). When a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity. On the other hand, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body, protecting the knee joint. Furthermore, since a user can find an appropriate location for the angle of the wrist of a user while rotating the location of the stick body 10 through at least one bending part (B1 or B2), the load applied to the wrist of a user can be minimized. Eventually, when mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons walk on a flatland (including walking along the ridge of a mountain), descend from a high place (including climbing down a mountain), and ascend from a low place (including climbing a mountain) only with one walking stick, they can feel comfortable and safe without difficulty and inconvenience.
For example, at least one bending part (see B1 or B2) may include a first bending part B1 formed on an upper half part (part from the center to the upper end of the stick body 10) of the stick body 10 and a second bending part B2 formed on a lower half part (part from the center to the lower end of the stick body 10).
The upper end portion (e. g, portion where a grip 20 is installed) of the stick body 10 may be bent toward a first direction (e.g., right direction in the drawing) by the first bending part B1, and the lower end portion (e.g., portion where a support member 30 is installed) of the stick body 10 may be bent toward the first direction by the second bending part B2. That is, the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 may be bent in the first direction, i.e., the same direction. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in order to obtain comfort of the wrist of a user and sufficient elasticity, when a user ascends from a low place, the walking stick may be turned and then the upper end portion of the stick body 10 may be naturally pulled such that the first direction faces the user. When a user descends from a high place, the walking stick may be turned and then the upper end portion of the stick body 10 may be naturally pushed such that the opposite direction to the first direction faces the user.
The upper end portion or the lower end portion of the stick body 10 may be bent at an angle θ of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees. As a test result, when the angle is smaller than about 10 degrees, it was verified that sufficient elasticity could not be obtained and a strain occurred on the wrist similarly to a typical straight walking stick. Also, when the angle is larger than about 40 degrees, it was verified that the wrist was too much bent and thus the wrist joint got easily tired.
Also, as shown in FIG. 1, the first and second bending parts B1 and B2 may have an angular shape. Although not shown, the first and second bending parts B1 and B2 may also have a round shape. Particularly, when the first and second bending parts B1 and B2 have a round shape, compared to the angular shape, a stress concentrated on the first and second bending parts B1 and B2 may be dispersed in a tangential direction, thereby minimizing the breakage of the first and second bending parts B1 and B2.
Additionally, the walking stick according to an embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, may further include a grip 20 that is disposed on the upper end portion of the stick body 10, and a support member 30 that is disposed on the lower end portion of the stick body 10 to support the ground surface. Particularly, the ring part 70 may be ergonomically designed such that a user can conveniently hold the ring part 70 by the hand and feel comfortable while rotating the walking stick.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to a modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2.
FIG. 2 is a view illustrating a modified example of the walking stick of FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 2, a stick body 10 may be divided into first and second stick bodies 11 and 12. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, the walking stick according to the modified example of an embodiment of the present invention may further include a length adjusting part 50 for adjusting the length of the stick body 10 through the first and second stick bodies 11 and 12. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the length adjusting part 50 may include an insertion hole 51 formed on the first stick body 11 and into which the second stick body 12 is inserted, and a fastener 52 that fastens the second stick body 12 to the first stick body 11. Particularly, the outer diameter of the second stick body 12 may be designed to have such a size that the second stick body 12 can be inserted into the insertion hole 51, and the fastener 52 may be clockwise rotated so as to fasten the first and second stick bodies 11 and 12 by friction. Furthermore, a scale 53 may be marked on the outer circumferential surface of the second stick body 12 such that a user can check the adjusted length with eyes. Accordingly, since the length adjusting part 50 is further provided, the length of the walking stick can be adjusted in accordance with the body size of a user, and the whole length of the walking stick can be shortened when the walking stick is not used, thereby improving convenience and portability in use. Regarding the constitution of the length adjusting part 50 and the fastener 52, various types of constitutions related to various kinds of typical sticks have been already well known to those skilled in the art, the constitution of the length adjusting part 50 and the fastener 52 could be easily modified and adopted by those skilled in the art.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.
FIG. 3 is a view illustrating various exemplary friction enhancing structures of a support member in the walking stick of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a view illustrating other exemplary friction enhancing structures of a support member in the walking stick of FIG. 1.
As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the walking stick according to another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a friction enhancing structure that is provided on the end portion 30 a of a support member 30 in order to increase friction with the ground surface. Accordingly, since the friction enhancing structure is provided, the increase of friction may allow a user to more safely walk on icy roads or slippery rocks.
In one embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 3 (a), the end portion surface 30 a of the support member 30 may make a right angle with the longitudinal direction of the support member 30. Accordingly, when one side of the end portion surface of the support member 30 makes contact with the ground surface, a semi-circular shape may be marked, and thus may increase friction with the ground surface.
In another embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 3 (b), the end portion surface 30 a of the support member 30 may make an obtuse angle with the longitudinal direction of the support member 30. Accordingly, compared to the case of making a right angle in FIG. 3 (a), as the contact area with the ground surface increases, friction with the ground surface may also increase.
In another embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 3 (c), the end portion surface 30 a of the support member 30 may make an acute angle with the longitudinal direction of the support member 30. Accordingly, compared to the case of making a right angle in FIG. 3 (a), since the end portion surface 30 a of the support member 30 can deeply sink into the ground like the eagle's talons, friction with the ground surface can increase.
In another embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 4 (a), the support member 30 may have a circular arc-shaped recess 31 formed on the end thereof, which is recessed toward the support member 30. Accordingly, compared to the case of making a right angle in FIG. 3 (a), since can deeply sink into the ground like the eagle's talons, friction with the ground surface can increase. In addition, even though the walking stick is turned 180 degrees for use, the same friction increase effect can be obtained due to the same shape.
In another embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 4 (b), the support member 30 may have a cone-shaped recess 32 formed on the end portion surface 30 a thereof, the inner diameter of which gradually decreases toward the stick body 10. Accordingly, compared to the case of making a right angle in FIG. 3 (a), since can deeply sink into the ground like the eagle's talons, friction with the ground surface can increase. In addition, even though the walking stick is turned certain degrees to any direction for use, the same friction increase effect can be obtained due to the same shape.
In another embodiment, as shown in the friction enhancing structure of FIG. 4 (c), the support member 30 may have an unevenness formed on the end portion surface 30 a thereof, thereby preventing slipping on the ground surface.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to still another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 5A and 5B.
FIG. 5A is a view illustrating various exemplary protection caps of the walking stick of FIG. 1. FIG. 5B is a view illustrating a support member detachably coupled to the stick body of the walking stick of FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 5A, the walking stick according to another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a protection cap 60 that is detachably coupled to a support member 30. Accordingly, the protection cap 60 may cover the end portion of the support member 30 at ordinary time or during the carrying of the walking stick, thereby preventing roads and mountains from being damaged by the support member 30 and minimizing injury risks that may be caused by the support member 30.
In one embodiment, as shown in (a) of FIG. 5A, the protection cap 60 may have an insertion hole that receives the end of the support member 30. The protection cap 60 may be detachably coupled to the end of the support member 30 through the insertion hole.
In another embodiment, as shown in (b) of FIG. 5A, the protection cap 60 may have a coupling protrusion, the outer circumferential surface of which has a male screw thread. The support member 30 may have a coupling hole formed on the end portion surface thereof, the inner circumferential surface of which has a female screw thread. Thus, the protection cap 60 can be coupled to the support member 30 through screw coupling.
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5B, the support member 30 may be detachably coupled to the stick body 10 through screw coupling. In this case, the screw shape of the support member 30 and the stick body 10 may switch between female screw and male screw. Also, the support member 30 may be detachably coupled to the stick body 10 through other detachable structures except screw coupling.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to even still another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 6, 7A and 7B.
FIG. 6 is a view illustrating a ring part of the walking stick of FIG. 1. FIG. 7A is a view illustrating a wrist and a thumb wound by the ring part of FIG. 6. FIG. 7B is a view illustrating a modified example of FIG. 7A, in which a wrist ring is caught by a stopping groove of a grip.
As shown in FIG. 6, the walking stick according to another modified example of the first embodiment of the present invention may further include a ring part 70 that is rotatably provided on the end of the grip 20. Particularly, the ring part 70 may include a wrist ring 71 for surrounding the wrist of a user, a thumb strap 72 for surrounding the thumb of a user, and a fixing member 73 for fixing the thumb strap 72 while the thumb strap 72 is wound around the thumb. As shown in FIG. 7A, a user may hang the wrist on the wrist ring 71 such that the wrist is surrounded by the wrist ring 71, and may wind the thumb strap 72 around the thumb and then fix the thumb strap 72 with the fixing member (73 of FIG. 6). For example, the fixing member 73 may include Velcro, snap button, and the like.
Accordingly, since the ring part 70 that is rotatable and includes the wrist ring 71 and the thumb strap 72 is provided, a user can hold the grip in an appropriate direction so as to effectively use the elasticity of the walking stick on uphill and downhill roads, thereby providing a more convenient and safe walking assistance function. Particularly, when a force of the thumb is strongly used, the load applied to the body (particularly, lower body) at a downhill road can be effectively dispersed.
In addition, as shown in FIG. 7B, the grip 20 may have a stopping groove 20 a formed on the outer circumferential surface of the end thereof. The wrist ring 71 (or thumb strap) may be caught in the stopping groove 20 a. Accordingly, once a user hangs the wrist on the wrist ring 71 such that the wrist ring 71 is tightly caught in the stopping groove 20 a, the wrist ring 71 may not rotate, thereby improving the grip feeling. In other words, when a user holds the grip 20 in a desired direction on uphill or downhill way and the wrist ring 71 is caught in the stopping groove 20 a, the wrist ring 71 may not rotate in spite of the ring part 70, thereby enabling a user to stably hold the grip 20. Here, the stopping groove 20 a may be formed in plurality on the grip 20. However, when a user holds the grip 20, it is desirable that the stopping groove 20 a are formed at the grip side to the body of a user and opposite to the body of a user.
Hereinafter, an exemplary use of the walking stick according the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.
FIG. 8 is a view illustrating a user ascending from a low place using the walking stick of FIG. 1, and FIG. 9 is a view illustrating a user descending from a high place using the walking stick of FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 8, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 10.
FIG. 10 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 10, since the walking stick according to the second embodiment of the present invention is similar to the first embodiment of the present invention except the shape of a stick body 210, a detailed description thereof will be focused on the stick body 210. Also, the same components as the first embodiment of the present invention will be assigned with the same reference numerals.
As shown in FIG. 10, the stick body 210 may be bent in a circular arc or an elliptical arc shape as a whole. That is, the stick body 210 may include one bending part B having a circular arc or an elliptical arc shape. Accordingly, a force may be continuously dispersed in a tangential direction of a circle or an ellipse through all points of the stick body 210. Thus, an impact applied to the upper part (e.g., shoulder, arm joints, etc.) of a user can be more efficiently absorbed compared to an embodiment of the present invention.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 11.
FIG. 11 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 11, since the walking stick according to the third embodiment of the present invention is similar to the first embodiment of the present invention except the shape of a stick body 310, a detailed description thereof will be focused on the stick body 310. Also, the same components as the first embodiment of the present invention will be assigned with the same reference numerals.
As described in FIG. 11, the walking stick according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include a stick body 310 having a long shape. Particularly, the stick body 310 may include a first bending part B1 formed on an upper half part thereof and a second bending part B2 formed on a lower half part thereof, and a third bending part B3 formed on a central part thereof. Accordingly, since a substantially “M”-shaped stick body 310 bent many times in a zigzag pattern is provided, the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 can provide more sufficient elasticity compared to two bending parts when a user ascends from a low place or descends from a high place. Accordingly, without a separate shock-absorbing part, when a user ascends from a low place, an impact applied to the upper part (e.g., shoulder, back, arm joint, and wrist joint) of a user can be sufficiently absorbed. Also, when a user descends from a high place, an impact applied to the lower part (e.g., knee, knee joint, and hip joint) can be sufficiently absorbed. Particularly, the steps of a user may become lighter due to the elasticity, and a flexibly continuous stimulus may promote the physical development of users' body. Furthermore, since a user can find an appropriate location for the angle of the wrist of a user while rotating the location of the stick body 310 through the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3, a load applied to the wrist of a user can be minimized. Eventually, when user walk on a flatland (including walking along the ridge of a mountain), descend from a high place (including climbing down a mountain), and ascend from a low place (including climbing a mountain) only with one walking stick, difficulty and inconvenience in walking can be minimized, and the body burden can be reduced, thereby providing convenience and safety for mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons.
For example, the upper end portion (e. g, portion where a grip 20 is installed) of the stick body 310 may be bent toward a first direction (e.g., right direction in the drawing) by the first bending part B1, and the lower end portion (e.g., portion where a support member 30 is installed) of the stick body 310 may be bent toward the first direction by the second bending part B2. That is, the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 310 may be bent in the first direction, i.e., the same direction. Also, the central portion of the stick body 310 may make an obtuse angle in an opposite direction to the first direction by the third bending part B3. That is, the stick body 310 may have a substantially M-shape as a whole through the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, in order to obtain comfort of the wrist of a user and sufficient elasticity, when a user ascends from a low place, the walking stick may be turned and then the upper end portion of the stick body 310 may be naturally pulled such that the first direction faces the user. When a user descends from a high place, the walking stick may be turned and then the upper end portion of the stick body 310 may be naturally pushed such that the opposite direction to the first direction faces the user.
The upper end portion, the lower end portion, and the central portion of the stick body 310 may be bent at an angle θ of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees. As a test result, when the angle is smaller than about 10 degrees, it was verified that sufficient elasticity could not be obtained and a strain occurred on the wrist similarly to a typical straight walking stick. Also, when the angle is larger than about 40 degrees, it was verified that the wrist was too much bent and thus the wrist joint got easily tired.
Also, as shown in FIG. 11, the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 may have an angular shape. Although not shown, the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 may also have a round shape. Particularly, when the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 have a round shape, compared to the angular shape, a stress concentrated on the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 may be dispersed in a tangential direction, thereby minimizing the breakage of the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3.
Additionally, the walking stick according to the third embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 11, may further include a grip 20 that is disposed on the upper end portion of the stick body 310, and a support member 30 that is disposed on the lower end portion of the stick body 310 to support the ground surface. Regarding to the grip 20 and the support member 30, since the first embodiment and the modified examples thereof have been already described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 7, a detailed description thereof will be omitted below.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to a modified example of the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 12.
FIG. 12 is a view illustrating a modified example of the walking stick of FIG. 11.
As shown in FIG. 12, a stick body 310 may be divided into first and second stick bodies 311 and 312. Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the walking stick according to the modified example of the third embodiment of the present invention may further include a length adjusting part 350 for adjusting the length of the stick body 310 through the first and second stick bodies 311 and 312. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the length adjusting part 350 may include an insertion hole 351 formed on the first stick body 311 and into which the second stick body 312 is inserted, and a fastener 352 that fastens the second stick body 312 to the first stick body 311. Particularly, the outer diameter of the second stick body 312 may be designed to have such a size that the second stick body 312 can be inserted into the insertion hole 351, and the fastener 352 may be clockwise rotated so as to fasten the first and second stick bodies 311 and 312 by friction.
Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the length adjusting part 350 may be disposed between the second stick body 312 and the third stick body 313. In this case, the outer diameter of the third stick body 313 may be designed to have such a size as to be inserted into the second stick body 312. That is, in one embodiment, when two length adjusting parts 350 are disposed on the walking stick, the outer diameters of the first stick body 311, the second stick body 312, and the third stick body 313 may be sequentially reduced.
Furthermore, a scale 353 may be marked on the outer circumferential surface of the second stick body 312 such that a user can check the adjusted length with eyes. Accordingly, since the length adjusting part 350 is further provided, the length of the walking stick can be adjusted in accordance with the body size of a user, and the whole length of the walking stick can be shortened when the walking stick is not used, thereby improving convenience and portability in use. Regarding the constitution of the length adjusting part 350 and the fastener 352, various types of constitutions related to various kinds of typical sticks have been already well known to those skilled in the art, the constitution of the length adjusting part 350 and the fastener 352 could be easily modified and adopted by those skilled in the art.
Hereinafter, an exemplary use of the walking stick according the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 and 14.
FIG. 13 is a view illustrating a user ascending from a low place using the walking stick of FIG. 11, and FIG. 14 is a view illustrating a user descending from a high place using the walking stick of FIG. 11.
As shown in FIG. 13, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity.
On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 14, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body.
Hereinafter, a walking stick according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 15.
FIG. 15 is a view illustrating a walking stick according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 15, since the walking stick according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is similar to an embodiment of the present invention except the shape of a stick body 410, a detailed description thereof will be focused on the stick body 410. Also, the same components as the first embodiment of the present invention will be assigned with the same reference numerals.
As shown in FIG. 15, the stick body 410 may be bent in a substantial arch shape as a whole. More specifically, the upper end portion (e.g., portion where a grip 20 is installed) of the stick body 410 may be bent toward a first direction (e.g., right direction in the drawing) by a first bending part B1, and the lower end portion (e.g., portion where a support member 30 is installed) of the stick body 410 may be bent toward the first direction by a second bending part B2. Also, the central portion of the stick body 410 may be bent in a convex arc or elliptical arc shape toward the first direction by a third bending part B3. Also, the first and second bending parts B1 and B2 may have a round shape in order to disperse a force in a tangential direction.
Accordingly, a force may be continuously dispersed in a tangential direction of a circle or an ellipse through the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 of the stick body 410. Thus, an impact applied to the upper part (e.g., shoulder, arm joints, etc.) of a user can be more efficiently absorbed compared to other embodiments of the present invention.
A number of exemplary embodiments have been described above. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made. For example, suitable results may be achieved if the described techniques are performed in a different order and/or if components in a described system, architecture, device, or circuit are combined in a different manner and/or replaced or supplemented by other components or their equivalents. Accordingly, other implementations are within the scope of the following claims.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

As described above, walking sticks according to embodiments of the present invention may have the following effects.
According to embodiments of the present invention, at least one bending part B, B1 or B2 may be provided on the stick bodies 10 and 210. Accordingly, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 10 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity. On the other hand, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body. Furthermore, since a user can find an appropriate location for the angle of the wrist of a user while rotating the location of the stick body 10 or 210 through at least one bending part B, B1 or B2, the load applied to the wrist of a user can be minimized. Eventually, when mountain climbers, travelers, old people, and disabled persons walk on a flatland, descend from a high place, and ascend from a low place, they can feel comfortable and safe without difficulty and inconvenience.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, the first, second and third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 may be provided on the stick bodies 310 and 410. That is, since a substantially “M”-shaped stick body bent many times in a zigzag pattern is provided, the first to third bending parts B1, B2 and B3 can provide more sufficient elasticity compared to two bending parts when a user ascends from a low place or descends from a high place. Accordingly, without a separate shock-absorbing part, when a user ascends from a low place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 310 or 410 bend toward a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pulled toward the body of a user. Thus, a user can feel the comfort of the wrist and obtain sufficient elasticity. On the other hand, when a user descends from a high place, a user can hold the grip while the upper end portion and the lower end portion of the stick body 310 or 410 bend toward the opposite direction of a user, allowing the grip to be naturally pushed toward the opposite direction of the body of a user. Thus, a load applied to the wrist joint can be minimized, and simultaneously, a load applied to the body can be dispersed to the upper body.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a length adjusting part 50 or 350 is further provided, the length of the walking stick can be adjusted in accordance with the body size of a user, and the whole length of the walking stick can be shortened when the walking stick is not used, thereby improving convenience and portability in use.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, since friction enhancing structures are provided on the end portion surface 30 a of the support member 30 in order to increase the friction with the ground surface, the increase of friction can allow a user to more safely walk on icy roads or slippery rocks.
Furthermore, according to embodiments of the present invention, since an attachable and detachable protection cap 60 is further provided on the end portion of the support member 30, the protection cap can cover the end portion of the support member 30 at ordinary time or during the carrying of the walking stick, thereby preventing roads and mountains from being damaged by the support member 30 and minimizing injury risks that may be caused by the support member 30.
Also, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a ring part 70 that is rotatable and includes a wrist ring 71 and a thumb strap 72 is provided, a user can hold the grip in an appropriate direction so as to effectively use the elasticity of the walking stick on uphill and downhill roads, thereby providing a more convenient and safe walking assistance function. Particularly, when a force of the thumb is strongly used, a load applied to the body (particularly, lower body) at a downhill road can be effectively dispersed.
In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, since a ring part that is rotatable and includes a wrist ring and a thumb strap is provided, a user can hold the grip in an appropriate direction so as to effectively use the elasticity of the walking stick on uphill and downhill roads.

Claims

1. A walking stick comprising:

a stick body having a long shape; and

at least one bending part formed on the stick body.

2. The walking stick of claim 1, wherein the stick body is bent in a circular arc or elliptic arc shape as a whole by the at least one bending part.

3. The walking stick of claim 1, wherein the least one bending part comprises:

a first bending part formed on an upper half part of the stick body; and

a second bending part formed on a lower half part of the stick body.

4. The walking stick of claim 3, wherein the stick body comprises:

an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part; and

a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part.

5. The walking stick of claim 4, wherein the upper end portion or the lower end portion is bent at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees.

6. The walking stick of claim 3, wherein the first bending part or the second bending part has an angular shape.

7. The walking stick of claim 3, wherein the first bending part or the second bending part has a round shape.

8. The walking stick of claim 3, wherein the at least one bending part further comprises a third bending part disposed on a central portion of the stick body.

9. The walking stick of claim 8, wherein the stick body comprises:

an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part;

a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part; and

the central portion forming an obtuse angle in an opposite direction to the first direction by the third bending part.

10. The walking stick of claim 9, wherein at least one of the upper end portion, the lower end portion, and the central portion is bent at an angle of about 10 degrees to about 40 degrees.

11. The walking stick of claim 8, wherein at least one of the first, second, and third bending parts has an angular shape.

12. The walking stick of claim 8, wherein at least one of the first, second, and third bending parts has a round shape.

13. The walking stick of claim 8, wherein the stick body comprises:

an upper end portion bent in a first direction by the first bending part;

a lower end portion bent in the first direction by the second bending part; and

the central portion bent in a convex arc or elliptical arc shape toward the first direction by the third bending part.

14. A walking stick comprising a stick body having a long shape,

wherein the stick body is bent in a circular arc or elliptical arc shape.

15. A walking stick comprising a stick body having a long shape,

wherein the stick body comprises:

an upper end portion bent in a first direction; and

a lower end portion bent in the first direction.

16. A walking stick comprising a stick body having a long shape,

wherein the stick body comprises:

an upper end portion bent in a first direction;

a lower end portion bent in the first direction; and

a central portion having a convex shape toward the first direction.

17. The walking stick of claim 1, wherein the walking stick further comprises:

a grip disposed on an upper end portion of the stick body; and

a support member disposed on a lower end portion of the stick body to support a ground surface.

18. The walking stick of claim 1, wherein the stick body is divided into first, second, and third stick bodies, and

the walking stick further comprises a length adjusting part that adjusts a length of the stick body between the first and second stick bodies and between the second and third stick bodies.

19. The walking stick of claim 18, wherein the length adjusting part comprises:

an insertion hole formed in the first stick body and into which the second stick body is inserted;

a fastener for fastening the second stick body to the first stick body;

an insertion hole formed in the second stick body and into which the third stick body is inserted; and

a fastener for fastening the third stick body to the second stick body.

20. The walking stick of claim 19, wherein the second stick body comprises a scale marked on an outer circumferential surface thereof.

21. The walking stick of claim 17, wherein the support member comprises an end portion surface forming one of right angle, obtuse angle, or acute angle with respect to a longitudinal direction of the support member.

22. The walking stick of claim 17, wherein the support member has a cone-shaped recess formed on an end portion surface thereof, an inner diameter of the cone-shaped recess gradually decreasing toward the stick body, or has an unevenness formed on the end portion surface thereof.

23. The walking stick of claim 17, wherein the support member has a circular arc-shaped recess formed on an end thereof, the circular arc-shaped recess being recessed toward the support member.

24. The walking stick of claim 17, comprising a protection cap detachably disposed on an end of the surface member.

25. The walking stick of claim 17, wherein the support member is detachably coupled to the stick body.

26. The walking stick of claim 17, comprising a ring part rotatably disposed an end of the grip,

wherein the ring part comprises:

a wrist ring surrounding a wrist of a user;

a thumb strap surrounding a thumb of a user; and

a fixing member for fixing the thumb strap while the thumb strap is wound around the thumb.

27. The walking stick of claim 26, wherein the grip has a stopping groove formed on an outer circumferential surface thereof such that the wrist ring or the thumb strap is caught in the stopping groove.