WO2016091734A1

WO2016091734A1 - Torso support device

Info

Publication number: WO2016091734A1
Application number: PCT/EP2015/078617
Authority: WO
Inventors: Peder KJÆRNLI; Anders SEIM
Original assignee: Skeno As
Priority date: 2014-12-09
Filing date: 2015-12-04
Publication date: 2016-06-16
Also published as: NO339474B1; NO20141492A1

Abstract

A torso support device (100) for an operator of a machine, such as a bicycle. The torso support device (100) comprises a torso plate (1) for contacting the torso of the operator whilst riding the bicycle, and a support frame (110) for supporting the torso plate (1), with respect to the bicycle, in a position that prevents forward movement of the cyclist relative to the bicycle. The support frame (110) is pivotally mountable to the bicycle at a first location such. The device (100) further comprises a control panel (13) positioned with respect to the torso plate (1) so as to be actuated using the chin of the operator to operate one or more bicycle functions.

Description

Torso Support Device

Technical field

The present invention relates to a torso support device for supporting a torso of an operator of a machine. In particularly, the present invention relates to a torso support device for cyclists with disabilities in their upper bodies.

Background

Torso support devices have been developed in order to enable e.g. cyclist with disabilities to operate a bicycle more easily. A few known solutions for providing chest and/or body support are presented in the following.

US6076846 discloses a bicycle chest rest system for abating the weight from the arms, legs and feet of a cyclist. The construction attaches to the top tube of the bicycle frame and is thereby adjustable longitudinally and vertically by virtue of a curved rail system. The construction maintains a forward position, ideal for road cycling and time trailing, by supporting the upper torso or chest of the cyclist. However, this design does not support a cyclist in an upright position or prevent forward motion in a comfortable manner under braking. Furthermore, the rigid nature of the construction means that movement of the upper body and comfortable fitting is difficult, making it problematic for a user with limited mobility to get on and off.

US5383677 discloses a body support structure similar to US 6076846 attached to the top tube of a bicycle and extending almost perpendicular upwards. The structure is height adjustable by means of a sliding arrangement and a rotatable leaver for locking it in place. However, again the rigid nature of the construction means that this system has the same disadvantages as US 6076846.

DE19644311 discloses a chest support structure that comprises of a fork attached to the top tube or head tube of a bicycle and a flexible belt or strap worn by the cyclist around the chest. This flexible strap attaches at two points on either side of the fork, and the cyclist is thereby attached to the construction. The introduction of a flexible component means that shocks experienced by the cyclist are reduced, but the design still imposes the limitations in respect of access and comfort as US 6,076,846. This design also provides primarily vertical support to the cyclist's chest. US5326122 discloses a hinged bicycle chest support structure that attaches to the handle stem of the bicycle and is movable between a first position under the cyclist's chest and to a second non-use position away from under the cyclist. The cyclist is set at a forward position, and the difficult access and positioning of the support construction means that it not suitable for disabled individuals with reduced strength in the arms.

In view of these solutions, a typical problem for individuals who have only one contact point with the handlebar when riding a bicycle or similar vehicle, such as those individuals having only one arm, is braking and riding in rough terrain.

Moreover, another problem for some individuals who have limited movement in one or both hands, such as individuals having muscular disorders or amputees, is controlling the brakes and gears of the vehicle, which are typically operated manually using the cyclist's fingers. Summary

At least one embodiment of the present invention provides a torso support device that overcomes or reduces one or more of the problems arising in the prior art.

At least one embodiment of the present invention seeks to improve control for individuals with physical disabilities in their upper body, such as finger and arm amputees, individuals with upper limb dysmelia, or individuals with reduced muscular strength and/or motor function, and also for individuals who prefer to offload their arms for more comfortable cycling, such as individuals with muscular and skeletal disorders or arthritis.

Various aspects of the embodiments herein address control of the following bike functions: steering, operation of the breaks, and operation of the gears.

Viewed from a first aspect, the present invention provides a device for supporting a torso of an operator of a machine during operation, the machine being one of a handlebar-controlled vehicle or an exercise machine, the device comprising : a torso plate for contacting the torso of the operator of the machine; and a support frame for supporting the torso plate with respect to the machine in a position that resists and/or prevents forward movement of the operator relative to the machine. The above device provides support to the operator of the machine against forward movement with respect to the machine, for example, in the case of a vehicle, when braking heavily or on bumpy terrain. This support provides two functions.

First, in the case of a handlebar-controlled vehicle, when the operator has only a single point of contact with the handlebars, a forward force from braking or rough terrain may result in the handlebars inadvertently rotating, causing an unintended turn of the vehicle. This may be dangerous for both the operator and their surroundings. By supporting the forward weight of the operator using the above described, such an unintended turning of the vehicle is prevented.

Secondly, for operators having reduced upper body strength, it is not desirable for significant loads to be carried by their arms. Such forces may as mentioned occur during braking or when operating a vehicle in rough terrain, but may also arise in the case of exercise machines, such as an indoor bicycle, during normal operation.

Thus, the above described torso support device, the device, is

particularly applicable as a disability support device for supporting the torso of an operator of the machine during operation, where the operator has an upper body disability.

Preferably, the position of the torso plate is such that the operator of the machine is in a generally upright position during operation, for example such that the torso of the operator is supported by the plate at an angle of at least 30° with respect to horizontal. Known torso support systems, which have been briefly discussed above, have all targeted athletes when competing in a strenuous, substantially horizontal position. The present device instead seeks to support a disabled person in a more natural cycling position. For example, the present device may thus also support the torso of the operator in a non- horizontal position.

The torso plate may provide support by receiving a compressive load from the weight of the operator's body, and preferably by transferring that load to a frame of the machine via the support frame by compressive and/or bending loads on the support frame. The proposed system is hence considerably different to the use of straps or other harness type elements used to hold an operator securely in an upright seat. The machine may have a seat without a backrest such that the torso plate provides the sole support for maintaining the operator in a seated position. Preferably, the device does not provide resistance against relative backward and/or sideways movement of the operator relative to the machine.

Whilst the device provides support against forward movement when the operator is in an upright position, in some embodiments the device may be adjustable so as to also provide support in other positions, such as a forward position, when adjusted to such a position.

For the avoidance of doubt, the relative directions used herein should be understood as being with reference to the machine, such as a bicycle, in its normal orientation for operation. When used in respect of the device, these terms should be understood as being with reference to the device when mounted to the machine in its normal orientation for operation. Particularly, the terms "forward", "backward", "left" and "right" refer to directions relative to the operator of the machine when operating the machine. The terms "vertical" and "horizontal" refer to these directions when the machine is in its normal orientation for operation.

The device preferably enables operation of the machine without the weight of operator being supported by their arms. Known systems to date have not been designed for users suffering from upper body disabilities to use such machines without the use of their arms for support.

The torso plate is preferably positioned, at least partially, above the front of a seat of the machine and is shaped to extend upwards and forward, with respect to the machine, for example in a shape suitable for cycling in the case where the vehicle is a bicycle.

In some embodiments, the plate comprises a soft face material for contact with the torso of the rider of the vehicle, for example comprising foam, rubber, leather or the like. As the plate will be supporting a significant portion of the operator's weight, it is desirable to use a soft face material for comfort to distribute their weight across the plate.

The torso support plate may be adapted to support both the abdomen and the chest of the operator. This further distributes the weight of the operator, as well as economically positioning the entire torso region, for example to assist in the case of an operator having weak upper body strength.

In some embodiments, a width of the torso support plate, in the left- right direction of the machine, is between 10 cm and 20 cm. In some embodiments, a length of the torso support plate, in a direction perpendicular to the width direction, is between 25 cm and 50 cm. These dimensions have been found to be suitable for most applications to support substantially the whole of the torso of the operator.

Although the following arrangement may be applied to many handlebar- operated vehicles in which the operator is seated, in the most preferred embodiment, the machine is a bicycle, preferably a pedal bicycle, preferably having an adjustable seat, such as a vertically adjustable seat. The term "pedal bicycle" should be understood to include at least road bicycles, mountain bicycles and indoor bicycles, e.g. exercise bicycles, training bicycles and the like.

Preferably, the support frame is pivotally mountable to bicycle such that raising and lowering of the seat of the bicycle causes the support frame to pivot with respect to a pivot point such that the torso plate moves with the seat of the vehicle.

In accordance with this arrangement, the torso plate moves with the seat such that, even when the seat is adjusted, the torso plate remains in the optimal, e.g. pre-set, position for the operator. This allows, for example, the operator to mount the bicycle with the seat in a lowered position in which their feet may rest comfortably on the floor, and to subsequently then raise the seat to the optimal cycling position without needing to readjust the device.

Where, for example, the device is used with a bicycle having a dropper post, the above arrangement further allows the seat of the bicycle to be adjusted during cycling without the torso plate requiring readjustment. This is advantageous because different seat positions are optimal for different cycling conditions and terrain.

The device above may have applications in situations where the operator requires less support against forward movement. Thus, viewed from another aspect, the present invention may also be seen to provide a device for supporting the torso of the user of a bicycle during operation, the device comprising : a torso plate for contacting the torso of the user of the bicycle; and a support frame for supporting the torso plate with respect to the bicycle, the support frame being pivotally mounted or mountable to bicycle at (at least) a first location such that raising and lowering of the seat of the bicycle causes the support frame to pivot about the first location such that the torso plate moves with the seat of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the support frame comprises an upper frame- portion connected to the torso plate, a middle frame-portion connected to the upper frame-portion, and a lower frame-portion connected to the middle frame- portion. The lower frame-portion may then be adapted to be pivotally mountable to the bicycle at a first location, and the middle frame-portion or the top frame-portion may adapted to be contactable with or mountable to the bicycle at a second location such that raising and lowering of the seat of the bicycle causes the support frame to pivot with respect to the first location such that the torso plate moves with the seat of the vehicle.

The contacting or mounting portion of the middle or top frame-portion may include either a connection that allows only pivotal movement, i.e. such that it restricts upwards and downwards movement with respect to the seat, or one that allows for pivotal movement and vertically upwards movement, i.e. such that it only restricts downwards movement, for example where the contacting portion comprises a groove engaged with a pin.

It will be appreciated that the device described above need not necessarily be formed separately from the bicycle, but may be formed integrally with, for example, the bicycle frame.

Thus, viewed from another aspect, the present invention also provides, a bicycle comprising a frame, an adjustable seat and a device as described in the aspects above, optionally including any of the preferred features thereof, wherein the support frame comprises an upper frame-portion connected to the torso plate, a middle frame-portion connected to the upper frame-portion, and a lower frame-portion connected to the middle frame-portion; wherein the lower frame-portion is pivotally mounted to the frame of the bicycle at a first location; and wherein the middle frame-portion is connected, directly or indirectly as discussed above, to the seat of the bicycle at a second location such that raising and lowering of the seat causes the support frame to pivot with respect to the first location such that the torso plate moves with the seat of the vehicle.

The first location may be any location towards the front of the bicycle, for example within 30 cm of the head tube of the bicycle frame, but is preferably at the head tube and/or around the steering tube of the bicycle. This position gives a maximum rotation arm for the torso plate and hence minimizes unintended rotation of the plate as the seat height is increased. However, the first location may alternatively be located for example at the top tube of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the lower frame-portion is pivotally mounted or adapted to be pivotally mountable to the bicycle via a tubular adaptor that is pivotally connected to the lower frame-portion and is adapted for connection, e.g. in a rigid and non-pivotal manner, with the head tube of the bicycle. This firmly fixes the device to the bicycle so that it cannot easily come away making the device safer. It also does not require any further modification to attach firmly to a conventional bicycle frame.

The second location is preferably a location fixed relative to the seat of the vehicle. For example, the second location is at a saddle or a seat post of the bicycle.

The middle frame-portion or the top frame-portion may be mounted or adapted to be mountable to the bicycle at the second location via an adjustable distancing device, the adjustable distancing device being adjustable so as to vary the location of torso plate with respect to the second location.

The use of an adjustable distancing device allows the support device to move with seat, but also allows the height of the torso plate relative to the seat to be adjusted to a desired height for optimal support.

The distancing device may preferably vary the location of the torso plate with respect to the second location by rotation about the first location, when the device is mounted to the bicycle. This means that the distancing device does not allow for variation of the location in the horizontal, left-right direction.

Although they could be formed integrally, the lower frame-portion and the middle frame-portion are preferably coupled together so as to be axially movable with respect to one another. This allows the frame to be resized to fit bicycles of different sizes and/or different users of the same bicycle. The lower frame-portion and the middle-frame portion may be lockable so as to prevent further movement. This allows the support frame to be resized and then fixed to form a rigid frame.

The upper frame-portion and the middle frame-portion may be pivotally coupled together, preferably such that the orientation of the torso plate is adjustable, i.e. may be adjusted. The orientation of the torso plate may be adjusted by adjusting the angle between the upper frame-portion and the middle frame-portion. The pivotal connection between the upper frame-portion and the middle frame-portion may preferably be locked in at least two different positions. This allows adjustment of the torso plate to provide support at the desired location. This configuration further allows the support device to be collapsed for efficient storage and transportation when not in use.

The device may further comprise a control panel for operation of one or more machine functions that are positioned with respect to the torso plate so as to be actuated using the head, and preferably the chin, of the operator. This allows operation of machine functions without the use of the operator's hands. This is particularly important where the operator has an upper body disability and cannot use their fingers to control these functions.

The device may include buttons and/or levers positioned so as to be actuatable by the head or chin of the operator when their torso is supported by the torso plate.

Where the machine is a vehicle, the machine functions may include braking of the vehicle and/or changing gears of the vehicle. One or both of these functions may be performed electronically, such as via an electronic braking system and/or an electronic gear-changing mechanism.

The machine functions may include raising and/or lowering of the seat of the machine, for example via a dropper seat post.

The torso support device herein makes it possible for individuals, aka operators, with disabilities in the upper body to use a regular machine, such as a two-wheeled bicycle. Similar designs have previously been developed with the objective of maintaining an aerodynamic position in time trial cycling, by reducing the stress on the arms and thereby reduce the energy consumption and fatigue. However, such designs still rely on upper body strength and/or the cyclist having two arms, and so are not suitable for individuals with disabilities in the upper body.

The torso support device herein provides for that weight may be completely, or almost completely, removed from the handlebars. In this manner, a bicycle is made steerable for disabled individuals having problems with holding a handlebar or controlling the steering of the bicycle.

The present invention may also be seen to provide a bicycle having mounted thereto a device as described above, optionally include any or all of the preferred features described. Brief description of the drawings

Certain preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in greater detail by way of example only and with reference to the figures, in which :

Figure 1 shows a side view of a device for supporting the torso of a cyclist;

Figures 2 to 5 show, respectively a top view, a bottom view, a front view and a rear view of the device shown in Figure 1;

Figure 6 shows another side view of a control panel for operating gear shifters of the bicycle, or other bicycle functions, using the head of the cyclist;

Figure 7 shows a further side view of a brake lever for operating brakes of the bicycle using the legs of the cyclist; and

Figure 8 shows yet another side view of a bicycle frame to which are mounted the device of Figure 1, the control panel of Figure 6 and the brake lever of Figure 7.

Figure 9 shows yet another side view of a bicycle frame to which are mounted an alternative embodiment of the device of Figure 1.

Detailed description

Torso support device

Figures 1 to 5 show a torso support device 100 for offloading the arms of a cyclist to achieve balanced cycling with one contact point on the handlebar. The device as shown is adapted to be mountable to the frame of a regular, two- wheel bicycle, although it will be appreciated that the device 100 could be formed integrally with the frame of the bicycle.

The torso support device 100 comprises a torso support plate 1 and a support frame 110 comprising an upper frame-portion 2, a middle frame-portion 3 and a lower frame-portion 4.

The torso support plate 1 is shaped for rider to lean their stomach and/or chest onto. It is located above the front area of the seat and extends forwards and upwards in the shape of the body while cycling. This ergonomic shape gives comfortable support.

The plate 1 may be covered with a soft material at the contact area between the body and the support plate 1 to provide extra comfort. Suitable materials include, for example, foam plastic, rubber or leather. The dimensions of the torso support plate 1 depend on the user and the intended use of the torso support device 100. Typically the length of the support plate 1 is between 25 and 50 cm, and the typically width of the support plate is between 10 and 20 cm.

The torso support plate 1 is connected to the rigid upper frame-portion 2 of the support frame 110 by a fixed connection, such as using rivets, bolts or brackets. Alternatively, however, the torso support plate 1 and the upper frame-portion 2 may be made as one part. In yet a further alternative, the connection between the torso support plate 1 and the upper frame-portion 2 may be a semi-rigid connection including a suspension arrangement.

The upper frame-portion 2 is preferably made from aluminum or carbon fiber tubes. The tubes will typically have a square or cylindrical cross section, but other shapes and/or materials may be used, for example formed plate steel or injection molded plastic; materials such as steel, fiberglass, plastic or any other suitable material may be used.

The upper frame-portion 2 is pivotally connected to the middle frame- portion 3 by a joint 5, or a flexible connection, to allow adjustment of the angle between the upper frame-portion 2 and the middle frame-portion 3. Typically this is done with brackets and bolts.

An adjustment mechanism fixes the angle between the upper frame- portion 2 and the middle frame-portion 3 at a desired angle, and allows regulation when in an "open mode".

The adjustment mechanism may include, for example, a joint 5 that may be locked/fixed, and/or a strut 6 that fixes the distance between a point on the upper frame-portion 2 and a point on the middle frame-portion 3, such as a strut having an adjustable length or a fixed-length strut having adjustable attachment points between the strut and the upper frame-portion 2 and/or between the strut and the middle frame 3.

Alternatively, the upper frame-portion 2 and the middle frame-portion 3 may be made as one part or as non-adjustable parts, but the support frame 110 does not then have these adjustment options.

The middle frame-portion 3 may be connected to the top frame-portion 2 any place along the top frame, and not just at its bottom end, as shown in the Figures. This will not affect the function of the torso support plate 1 and, in some arrangements, different connection points between the upper frame- portion 2 and the middle-frame portion 3 may allow for improved suspension solutions for the torso support plate 1 in the forward direction.

The support frame 110 is relatively rigid, but may include some flexibility in the connection between the torso support plate 1 and the upper frame- portion 2 or in the connection between the upper frame-portion 2 and the middle frame-portion 3, which provides some damping to improve comfort. This may be done either by using a flexible material or other solutions, such as mechanical suspension, for example a telescopic shock absorber.

The middle frame-portion 3 is typically similar in material and cross- sectional shape to the upper frame-portion 2. The length of the middle frame- portion 3 depends on the rider, but for typical bicycles will be between 15 and 40 cm.

The middle frame-portion 3 is connected to the lower frame-portion 4 so as to allow relative movement lengthwise, e.g. substantially in the forward- rearward direction of the bicycle, between the middle frame-portion 3 and the lower frame-portion 4. In this embodiment, this is achieved by a telescoping connection with a locking mechanism 7, which when unlocked allows relative lengthwise movement, and when locked allows no relative movement.

A damping function may be included in the middle frame-portion 3, in the lower frame-portion 4 or in the connection between them. This may be done, for example, using a telescopic shock absorber or other mechanical solutions, or by using a material with flexible qualities.

The middle frame-portion 3 and the lower frame-portion 4 may alternatively be made as one part or separate non-adjustable parts, but will then lose the length adjustment function.

Thus, in one embodiment, the upper frame-portion 2, the middle frame- portion 3 and the lower frame-portion 4 may be made as one part, but without some of the functions. Furthermore, the torso support plate 1 and the complete support frame 110 may be made as one part, but will lose some of the above described functions.

The lower frame-portion 4 is designed to attach to the bicycle at the head tube of the frame of the bicycle. The support frame 110 includes a head tube adaptor 10 that engages the head tube, for example by being pressed inside the head tube at the top end, replacing the bearing, and being fixed by the friction between the head tube adaptor 10 and the bicycle frame, as shown in see Figure 6. The original stem of the bicycle is then fitted above the adaptor 10.

The head tube adaptor 10 may fit beneath the headset bearing at the top of the head tube, and may easily be made to fit the different standards in the market. The bottom end of the adaptor 10 may be shaped to engage the top of the head tube. The top end of the adaptor 10 may be shaped to correspond to the shape of the top of the head tube such that the original bearing fits at the top end of the adapter 10, and so the function of the bearing is maintained without any additional parts.

The head tube adaptor 10 includes an inner cylinder and an outer clamp

8 for engaging the head tube of the frame of the bicycle. These parts may be made as two separate components in order to simplify production and to facilitate adaption of the device 100 to fit different sizes of head tubes.

The head tube adaptor 10 may alternatively (not shown) be attached at the bottom end of the head tube, replacing that bearing instead, but then a different kind of connection must be used to connect the lower frame-portion 4 of the support structure. Those in the technical field will appreciate the necessary modifications to achieve such a structure.

The lower frame-portion 4 and the head tube adaptor 10 are connected by a joint 9. The joint 9 allow angular adjustment between the lower frame- portion and the bicycle frame, allowing height adjustment of the torso support plate 1 relative to the ground.

In an embodiment, a first distance provider 11 vertically supports the middle frame-portion 3 with respect to the seat post, as shown in Figure 8, or to the seat of the bicycle. The first distance provider 11 ensures the right position of the torso support plate 1 relative to the seat when the seat is in the higher position.

As shown in Figure 1, the first distance provider 11 comprises a rigid portion for rigid coupling to the seat post, i.e. such that it does not pivot or slide axially during use, and a vertically adjustable portion for connecting the middle frame-portion 3 to the rigid portion.

The distance provider 11 may be adjusted to select a relative position of the torso support plate 1 with respect to the seat using the vertically adjustable portion. When the seat post is adjusted, the first distance provider 11 will cause the support frame 110 to pivot about the joint 9 of the head tube adaptor 10 such that the torso support plate 1 moves with the seat of the bicycle. The rigid coupling to the seat post may comprise, for example, a clamping device that rigidly engages the seat post when in a locked state and slides freely up and down the seat post in an unlocked state.

The vertically adjustable portion comprises a movable support member, such as a pin. The support member may be positioned at two or more locations within the vertically adjustable portion to set the relative position of the torso support plate 1 with respect to the saddle.

By this configuration, the torso support plate 1 may move upwards with the operator over rough terrain, but downward movement of the torso support plate 1 is restricted. In this embodiment, the vertically adjustable portion is mounted to the middle frame-portion 3, but it will be appreciated that it could alternatively be formed as part of the rigid portion such that the middle frame- portion 3 rests on the support member.

Thus, the first distance provider 11 need not necessarily be connected to the middle frame-portion 3, and the middle frame 3 may simply rest on the vertically adjustable portion to limit the downward movement of the middle frame-portion 3. In this case, resistance against rotational movement is provided by the first connection via the head tube adaptor 10.

In an alternative arrangement, the distance provider 11 may engage with the upper frame-portion 2 rather than the middle-frame portion 3; for example, where the middle-frame portion 3 couples to a location other than the bottom of the upper frame-portion 2, the lower end of the upper frame-portion 2 may lean on, or otherwise connect to, the distance provider 11.

A second distance provider 12 may be provided to ensure the right position of the torso support plate 1 relative to the seat when the seat is in the lowest position. The second distance provider 12 is typically connected to the lower frame-portion 4, or to the bike frame, but may also be connected at another suitable location which is in contact with the lower frame-portion 4 or the middle frame-portion 3.

The torso support device 100 may, in some cases, be used together with a commercial available dropper post. A dropper post is a vertically adjustable seat post and allows the operator to adjust the seat height remotely, normally using a remote control placed on the handlebar. A low seat height makes it easier for the rider to get on and off the seat because the rider may sit at the seat and still reach the ground. This makes starting and stopping the bicycle safer and more controllable - a critical point in bicycle riding when the user is disabled. Using a remote control (such as the control panel described below) it is then possible to raise the seat whilst the bicycle is in motion, to get an efficient cycling position with a raised seat.

Chin-operated control panel

At the upper end of the support plate 1 there may be attached a panel to operate functions on the bike using the head of the cyclist. This panel is shown in Figure 6.

The panel comprises levers and/or buttons 13 positioned underneath the cyclist's chin and within their reach range when the cyclist is in a cycling position, i.e. with their torso resting on the torso support plate 1. The levers and buttons 13 are activated by movement of the head and the chin in a sideways, forward, backward, downward or upward direction, or a combination of these.

Exemplary functions that may be controlled in this manner include gear shifters, a dropper post (a height adjustable seat post), adjustment of the bicycle's suspension, activation of the bicycle's brakes, and actuation of lights or a turn signal.

The panel may be an integrated part of the upper frame-portion 2 of the support frame 110 or of the torso support plate 1, or it may be formed as a separate part that is attached to the upper frame-portion 2 or torso support plate 1.

The panel is attached to the support frame 110 or the torso support plate 1 by a connection part 14 that allows adjustment of the position of the panel along and relative to the torso support plate 1. When the panel is formed as a separate part, the connection part 14 may for example connect to the upper frame-portion 2 of the support frame 110 via a joint 15, for example by clipping into a hollow end of a tube forming part of the upper frame-portion 2.

The panel may comprise standard mechanical gear shifters with custom levers 13 to enable their actuation. Such levers may be, for example, between 20 and 100 mm in length. Alternatively, the panel may comprise electronic gear shifters with push buttons or toggle switches to be actuated using the cyclist's head.

The panel may include the facility to enable control by a remote application, such as executed on a user's smart phone, tablet or computer. For example, the cyclist may be able to control the functions directly using the smart phone and/or adjust which buttons or levers 13 of the panel actuate which functions of the bicycle.

The panel may also include a lever 13 to operate the dropper post remotely. The dropper post may be of a hydraulic, wire or electronic type.

Leg brake levers

The bicycle may be further adapted to include brakes actuated using the legs of the cyclists, for example by squeezing their thighs together, such that the cyclist does not require fine motor control in their hands.

The brakes comprise a brake lever 17 located adjacent to the frame of bicycle such that a leg of the cyclist may reach the lever at any time during the pedal stroke, and a brake cylinder 21 actuated by the level 17. The lever 17 is substantially horizontal and extends generally from the seat post towards the front of the bicycle frame.

The brake lever 17 is connected at two points 18, 20. The rearward point 18 is connected to the seat post or the bicycle frame near the seat post via a mounting bracket 16 and the forward point 20 is connected to the brake cylinder 21.

The mounting bracket 16 connects the brake lever 17 to the seat post or the bicycle frame and may be adjusted axially, for example along the seat post or the frame, to position the brake lever 17 at the correct height. A joint at point 18 pivotally connects the brake lever 17 and the bracket 16, allowing the brake lever 17 to rotate horizontally when compressed by the cyclist's thigh.

The brake cylinder 21 may be connected to the bicycle frame directly, or indirectly. For example, as shown in Figure 8, the brake cylinder 21 connects to a connection portion 22 of the head tube adaptor 10 via a joint 23. The connection portion 22 rigidly connects to the head tube adaptor 10 at point 24.

The brake lever 17 may be used with any brake type, including wire brakes and hydraulic brakes, and may be used for both rim brakes and disc brakes.

Advantages of various embodiments

Figure 8 shows a frame for a bicycle including an adjustable seat.

Mounted to the frame are the torso support device 100 described with reference to Figures 1 to 5, the control panel described with reference to Figure 6, and the leg brake lever described with reference to Figure 7. The torso support device 100 described above make it possible for individuals with disabilities in the upper body to use a regular two wheeled bicycle. Similar designs have previously been developed with the objective of maintaining an aerodynamic position in time trial cycling, by reducing the stress on the arms and thereby reduce the energy consumption and fatigue. However, such designs still rely on upper body strength and/or the cyclist having two arms, and so are not suitable for individuals with disabilities in the upper body.

The torso support device 100 described above means that weight may be completely removed from the handlebars, thereby making a bicycle steerable for disabled individuals having problems with holding a handlebar or controlling the steering of the bicycle.

Furthermore, for cyclists who have difficulties when changing gears or operating other traditionally hand-operated bicycle functions, the above described panel at the front of the torso support plate provides a gear selector, and/or other functionalities, may overcome these difficulties by providing an alternative means for actuating these functions.

By having the lower frame-portion 4 connected to the bicycle at the head tube, in combination with the torso support plate 1 and support frame 110 design, the weight of the rider forces the support structure downwards and forwards when the rider leans on the torso support plate 1 under deceleration, such as when breaking or when the wheels hits an obstacle. This makes it possible to use a hinged connection between the lower frame-portion and the bicycle to allow adjustment when the seat is moved, while the torso support plate 1 is still stable and is not tilted upward and forward when in use.

A hinged mounting of the support frame 110 to the bicycle make it possible to have the torso support plate 1 automatically follow the height adjustments of the seat, and maintain the right position of the torso support plate 1 relative to the torso of the cyclist for all seat heights. In this way, the rider is always provided with optimal support, regardless of the seat height.

By allowing the seat post to be adjustable whilst maintaining the torso support plate in the correct position, the frame allows the user to mount the bicycle with the seat in a dropped position, and to subsequently raise the seat to an optimal riding position. Furthermore, especially when using a dropper post, this is an advantage as the seat may be adjusted during cycling to achieve the optimal position for the terrain at that time, for example when riding down steep hills, a low seat and low center of gravity is favorable. The torso support plate 1 and the support frame 110 are easily foldable by virtue of the pivotal connection 5 between the upper frame-portion 2 and the middle frame-portion 3, making the device 100 easy to transport and store.

Due to the adjustable design of the support frame 110, the same model may fit a large number of users and bicycles, increasing the production volume and reducing cost, as well as making the device 100 more accessible than tailor- made solutions for individual cyclists.

Whilst the present invention has been described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that these embodiments are set forth by way of example only and that the scope of the present invention is not limited thereto, but includes all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims. For example, the present invention is not limited to road and mountain bicycles, but may also be used with the same objective for other applications, such as indoor bicycles or motorbikes. Indeed, the advantages of the present invention are believed to be present for any vehicle in which the vehicle is controlled by rotation of the handlebars about an axis perpendicular to the forward -rearward direction of the vehicle, such as using a handlebar. The present invention may also be applied to exercise machines, such as indoor bicycles and elliptical trainers, where it is desirable not to support the operator's weight on their arms.

Claims

1. A device for supporting a torso of an operator of a handlebar-controlled vehicle, at least one leg brake leaver (17) connected to the vehicle, the device (100) comprising :

a torso plate (1) for contacting the torso of the operator of the vehicle ; and

a support frame (110) for supporting the torso plate (1) with respect to the vehicle in a position that resists forward movement of the operator relative to the vehicle; characterized in

that the support frame 110 comprises a head tube adapter 10 engaging the head tube of the vehicle.

2. A device according to claim 1, wherein the device (100) enables operation of the machine without a weight of the operator being supported by at least one the arm of the operator.

3. A device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the torso plate (1) is sized to support both an abdomen and a chest of the operator.

4. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the machine is a bicycle having a vertically adjustable seat.

5. A device according to claim 4, wherein the support frame (110) comprises an upper frame-portion (2) connected to the torso plate (1), a middle frame-portion (3) connected to the upper frame-portion (2), and a lower frame- portion (4) connected to the middle frame-portion (3),

wherein the lower frame-portion (4) is adapted to be pivotally mountable to the bicycle at a first location; and

wherein the middle frame-portion is adapted to be contactable with or mountable to the bicycle at a second location fixed relative to the seat of the bicycle, such that raising and lowering of the seat of the bicycle causes the support frame (110) to pivot with respect to the first location such that the torso plate (1) moves with the seat of the bicycle.

6. A device according to claim 5, wherein the first location is within 30 cm of the head tube of the bicycle, and preferably at the head tube and/or around the steering tube of the bicycle.

7. A device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the second location is fixed relative to the seat of the bicycle.

8. A device according to claim 5, 6 or 7, wherein the upper frame-portion (2) or the middle frame-portion (3) is adapted to be mountable to the bicycle at the second location via an adjustable distancing device, the adjustable distancing device being adjustable so as to vary the location of the torso plate (1) with respect to the second location.

9. A device according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein the upper frame- portion (2) and the middle frame-portion (3) are pivotally couple together such that the orientation of the torso plate (1) is adjustable.

10. A device according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a control panel (13) for operation of one or more machine functions, the control panel (13) being positioned with respect to the torso plate so as to be actuated using the head of the operator.

11. A device according to claim 10, wherein the control panel (13) is positioned so as to be actuated using a chin of the operator.

12. A device according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the machine is a vehicle and the machine functions include changing gears of the vehicle and/or braking the vehicle.

13. A device according to claim 10, 11 or 12, wherein the machine functions include raising and/or lowering the seat of the machine.

14. A bicycle comprising the device (100) according to any one of the preceding claims mounted thereto.

15. A bicycle comprising a frame, an adjustable seat and a device (100) according to any one of claims 4-13, wherein the support frame (110) comprises an upper frame-portion (2) connected to the torso plate (1), a middle frame- portion (3) connected to the upper frame-portion (2) , and a lower frame- portion (4) connected to the middle frame-portion (3),

wherein the lower frame-portion (4) pivotally mounted to the frame of the bicycle at a first location; and

wherein the middle frame-portion is (3) mounted with respect to the seat of the bicycle at a second location such that raising and lowering of the seat causes the support frame (110) to pivot with respect to the first location such that the torso plate (1) moves with the seat of the vehicle.