This application claims the benefit of New Zealand patent application 721 122 filed 13 June 2016, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated within by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to an upper body support apparatus that may be used to support the upper body region of a user bending forward. For example, the apparatus may be used to support the upper body region of a user bending forward to shear a sheep, lay tiles, pick plants, or use a chainsaw, so as to reduce fatigue normally attributed to prolonged bending forward from a normal upright position.

BACKGROUND ART

Maintaining a bent-over position for a substantial period of time typically results in fatigue to the individual. This fatigue can result in decreased productivity as well as a number of medical complaints. Such fatigue is particularly noticeable in industries such as sheep shearing where the preferred shearing technique involves bending over the animal that is resting on the floor at the individual's feet. While shearing, the shearer can be bent-over close to 90° from an upright position for several minutes at a time without the ability to straighten to alleviate cramping, pain, etc. One previous approach to reducing such fatigue for shearers involves the use of a back support which consists of a sling (either C-shaped or closed) which hangs from a bracket mounted to the ceiling of the shearing shed by a spring or bungee mechanism. The shearer places his or her chest in the sling which resists the weight of the shearer by the action of the spring or bungee mechanism. Such a sling is widely used because of the support it provides to the shearer, but this device suffers from requiring a mounting point on the shearing shed ceiling and also restricts the ability of the shearer to move far from the location of the permanently mounted sling. As such, the shearer must disengage from the sling to grab the next sheep for shearing, before re-engaging the sling to shear the sheep. This reduces the productivity of the shearer as well as not providing any upper body support when not engaged. Furthermore, some shearers prefer the unencumbered feeling of operating without the sling, however such freedom comes at the expense of developing fatigue associated with shearing in a bent-over position. Furthermore, there are numerous other applications where there is no mounting point available, including many outdoor activities such as picking rice, flowers, fruit, vegetables, and operating a chainsaw, as well as indoor activities where bending over is commonplace, such as laying tiles.

An upper body support apparatus that is able to move with the intended user, and is not fixed to the user's surrounds (ceiling, etc), would be desirable, particularly if the apparatus provided biomechanical freedom of movement.

A previous approach is described in US 3,570,01 1 (US'011). The back support described therein utilizes a rigid elongate member which is fixed laterally in line with the major axis of the body by a chest lift strap and a waist belt. The rigid elongate member is connected to the ankles of the user by separate elastic cords that are individually tied to separate hooks that engage eye bolts in the lower cross piece. As such, the elastic cords move independently of each other. Such a relationship only distributes the load evenly between the legs of the user when the user's legs are evenly placed as shown in Figure 2 of US'01 1 . Otherwise the legs will experience unequal forces leading to fatigue or even rotational forces about the apparatus. Furthermore, bending at the knees would place an extra load for the quadriceps to resist.

Another previous approach is described in US 1 ,008,500 (US'500). The back brace described therein utilizes a flat back-spring to connect the seat to a back-piece so that any bending forward movement of the user is retarded by the spring. The seat is held in place by a belt and two independently operable leg strips. The leg strips are independently hinged to the seat and thus move independently of each other. Such a relationship only distributes the load evenly between the legs of the user when the user's legs are evenly placed as shown in Figure 1 of US'500.

Another previous approach is described in US 7,744,552 (US'552). The personal upper body support device for lower back muscles attempts to distribute the transferred upper bodyweight equally to both legs if the legs are staggered (column 2, lines 62-63). US'552 teaches away from implementing a backpack style upper body support when referring to the backpack type framework of the Robert device in column 4 (lines 30-40) and also because of the "significant pulling force between the anchorage points, thus compressing the spinal column and its discs. This compression could inflict even further pain and injury to users already suffering from some forms of back conditions such as vertebral misalignments, compressed, bulging or herniated discs" (column 5, line 5-10). However, the weight of the user will exert a significant force on the chest roller or webbing bridging member which could lead to bruising. Also, by positioning the device anterior to the user the device will provide a physical and/or visual barrier in use, which will hinder normal function - particularly where the user is performing an operation that uses the waist and abdomen region, such as shearing. In addition, the device needs to be adapted to allow for the female anatomy, because these nonetheless preferred "upper-body engagement methods are not very breast friendly" (column 13, line 28). In particular, the roller/webbing device needs to be exchanged for the more restrictive bracing arrangement shown in Figure 1 1 . Although passing reference is made to "simple modifications" that "can enable it to be worn on one's backside", there is no enabling disclosure of that mode of use. Finally, the sprung turnbuckle mechanism contains exposed threads which can become contaminated by particles and moisture which would thus reduce the efficacy of the mechanism.

Another previous approach is described in BE 1000412 (ΒΕΊ42). A first elongate member extends from the waist region of the user to a fixed shoulder harness. A second elongate member extends from the waist region to a position posterior to the knees of the user. The two elongate members are hinged to the waist region and when the user bends forward, the movement of the elongate members is retarded by the action of a spring. The second elongate member is connected to the knees of the user by a cable that runs through a pulley. The device is only secured to the user at the shoulders and the knees. The device is not configured for attaching to the hip region of the user, instead it appears intended to merely sit on the lumbar region which may lead to instability if the user bends forward and to either side. It is also believed that the design of the first elongate member will be restrictive in that as the user bends forward the first elongate member, having a fixed length, will impart a significant force on the shoulder straps in the direction behind and up from the user since the length of the arc of the user's spine is shorter than the length of arc of the curved elongate member. This is believed to cause the shoulder straps to restrict the movement of the user's shoulders.

Another previous approach is described in US 1 ,812,529 (US'529). The back of the user is reinforced by a resilient steel member which is attached to the body through: a rigid head unit attached to shoulder straps; and a rigid foot unit attached to leg straps. The head unit and the foot unit are each configured to pivot about the connection point to the resilient steel member. It is believed that the resilient steel member will impart a significant compressive force on the spine of the user for the reasons highlighted in US'552. It is believed that the rigidity of the foot and its proximity to the body mean that the device restricts the movement of the user.

It is an object of the present invention to address the foregoing problems or at least to provide the public with a useful choice. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided an upper body support apparatus for supporting the upper body of a user having an upper body region, a hip region, a first leg and a second leg, the apparatus including: a) an elongate member having: i) a first end portion attached to a first body attachment means configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus; and ii) a second end portion attached to a second body attachment means configured for attaching to the hip region of the user; b) a first leg engagement member configured for engaging the first leg of the user; and c) a second leg engagement member configured for engaging the second leg of the user; wherein the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached to the second body attachment means and are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other; and wherein the elongate member is movable between a first position and a second position and is biased to the first position, such that in use the elongate member is located in the first position when the user is substantially upright and in use the elongate member is located in the second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an upper body support apparatus for supporting the upper body of a user having an upper body region, a hip region, a first leg and a second leg, the apparatus including : a) an elongate member having : i) a first end portion attached to a first body attachment means configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus; and ii) a second end portion attached to a second body attachment means configured for attaching to the hip region of the user; b) a first leg engagement member configured for engaging the first leg of the user; and c) a second leg engagement member configured for engaging the second leg of the user; wherein the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached to the second body attachment means and are configured to substantially equally transfer mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward; and wherein the elongate member is movable between a first position and a second position and is biased to the first position, such that in use the elongate member is located in the first position when the user is substantially upright and in use the elongate member is located in the second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward. Preferably, in the upper body support apparatus the elongate member is configured to lie substantially in alignment with the posterior of the spine of the user in use.

Preferably, in the upper body support apparatus the distance along the elongate member between : · the point of attachment of the first end portion and the first body attachment means; and

• the point of attachment of the second end portion and the second body attachment means is not fixed, and is variable by up to 20% of the length of the elongate member, such as up to 10% of the length of the elongate member. That variation may be up to 10 cm, such as up to 5 cm. This variation in distance may be achieved by having a floating point of attachment of the first end portion and the first body attachment means. The floating point of attachment may include a sleeve which wraps around the first end portion of the elongate member. The sleeve may also include a roller/pulley to reduce the friction between the sleeve and the elongate member. In some embodiments the point of attachment, such as the sleeve, is constrained by the apparatus including stops at either end, or both ends, of a segment of the elongate member.

The upper body support of the present invention is capable of reducing fatigue associated with maintaining a bent-over position for an extended period of time, without substantially restricting the mobility of the user. Advantageously, the upper body support apparatus of the present invention provides the user with upper body support without forcing the user to remain in a single location which is a disadvantage of the encumbent shearer's back support, for example. As such, the upper body support apparatus can be used without having to modify the work environment, by fixing objects to ceilings, walls, etc. Furthermore, the upper body support apparatus of the present invention can be used outdoors in occupations not typically suited for such mechanical aids.

It will be understood that the user does not typically become fatigued in the upright position where the weight of the upper body acts through the longitudinal axis of the user's body, thereby being held in equilibrium by the strength of the user's skeleton.

On the other hand, when the upper body of the user bends forward, in order to prevent the user from toppling forward the weight of the upper body must be held in equilibrium by the back muscles acting in conjunction with the skeleton. The challenge provided to the back muscles causes fatigue which can lead to reduced productivity, overuse injuries or worse.

Such fatigue may also occur when the user adopts a position wherein the user is substantially upright, or only slightly bent forward, and the arms are extended in front. Such a position is commonly adopted when the useris holding tools, such as while pruning, or at a work station or bench. The weight of the arms alone can provide a torque force about the hips which must be opposed by the lower back muscles in particular. The present invention also addresses fatigue resulting from this position. The elongate member of the present invention is biased by the apparatus to apply a force to the user to return the upper body of the user to a substantially upright position. By attaching to the upper body region of the user at the first end portion, and the hip region of the user at the second end portion, this biased action imparts a force on the upper body of the user to assist the back muscles to keep the upper body in equilibrium when the user is bent forward, or even is substantially upright with arms extended forward.

In some embodiments, the mechanism of the apparatus of the present invention provides a force on the upper body which is proportional to the degree to which the user is bent-forward.

It has been discovered by the present inventor that the action of the elongate member, acting at the upper body region and the hip region, is enhanced by the further action of the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that at least a portion of the weight of the upper body is effectively transferred to the first and second leg engagement members, and thereto the legs of the user, thereby delaying fatigue for the user. The transfer of weight of the upper body to the first and second leg engagement members provides a mechanical advantage. It might be thought that one method of transferring weight from the upper body to the legs may involve the use of fixed leg engagement members, or leg engagement members moving in unison. Both of these techniques would, disadvantageously restrict the ability of the user to walk, or hold the legs at different positions with respect to the remainder of the body. It has now been found that, in several embodiments of the invention, by configuring the leg

engagement members to move reciprocally in relation to each other, it is possible for the user to walk and furthermore to stand with the legs in different position in relation to the body, and yet the transferred weight is substantially equalized between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

As used herein the term "reciprocally" means a form of movement of the first leg engagement member in relation to the second leg engagement member, such that the two leg engagement members move in a substantially opposite direction in use. The anatomical position of a human user is understood to be a standard position of the body: standing erect and facing directly forward. In relation to the anatomical position, typically the substantially opposite direction of movement of the leg engagement members in use will consist of the first leg engagement member moving forward of the user while concomitantly the second leg engagement member will move rearward of the user. In some embodiments this reciprocal motion occurs when the first leg engagement member moves in one direction, either forward (anterior of the user) or rearward (posterior of the user). For example, when the first leg engagement member moves forward the second leg

engagement member is urged rearward, however when the same first leg engagement member moves rearward the second leg engagement member is not urged forward. Such motion may be created by a flexible elongate member such as a cord connecting the two leg engagement members, such that movement in one direction creates tension in the flexible elongate member resulting in a concomitant force, whereas movement in the opposite direction creates slack in the flexible elongate member resulting in no concomitant force. In other embodiments this reciprocal motion occurs when the first leg engagement member moves in either direction. For example, when the first leg engagement member moves forward the second leg engagement member is urged rearward. Likewise when the same first leg engagement member moves rearward the second leg engagement member is urged forward.

In preferred embodiments the apparatus is provided with a plurality of stops to restrict the rotation of the leg engagement members at the extremities of the ranges of movement.

Advantageously these stops can assist the user to wear the apparatus.

It will be understood that the user of the apparatus of the invention, will be able to walk forward with substantially no restriction of movement by the apparatus. As will be understood, while walking, one leg of the user will move forward of the centre of gravity of the user and one leg will move rearward of the centre of gravity of the user.

In several embodiments, the apparatus of the invention permits the normal walking motion of the user to occur substantially unhindered by employing a configuration of the first and second leg engagement members that allows the first leg engagement member to move reciprocally in relation to the second leg engagement member. This configuration can adopt many forms, including wherein the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other by a mechanism selected from : a) a pulley and flexible elongate member; b) a differential-type mechanism ; C) a bar mechanism; d) a pulley and pressurized gas strut; e) a multiple pressure equalized gas struts mechanism ; or f) a rotatable resilient members mechanism. These configurations will typically provide a 1 :1 ratio of movement between the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member, although this ratio is not seen as limiting. The ratio may vary from 0.8:1 to 1 :0.8, for example, to allow for slight differences in scale of forward and rearward movement of the legs of the user. Such differences may be achieved through the use of gears, multiple pulleys, and the like.

As used herein the term "upper body region" of the user refers to the region of the body above the hip region, such as above the navel, when the user stands in the anatomical position. This region will typically include the torso above the hip region, the neck, head and arms.

As used herein the term "posterior" of the user refers to the region behind the user, when the user stands in the anatomical position. As used herein the term "anterior" of the user refers to the region in front of the user, when the user stands in the anatomical position.

As used herein the term "hip region" of the user refers to the region of the body that includes the hip bones, and extends as far as the waist or navel. It will be understood that the hip bones provide significant structural support for the transfer of load to the skeleton and belts are typically employed to cinch about the user's waist of hip to utilize this structural support.

As used herein the term "leg" takes its broadest standard meaning and is otherwise referred to as the "lower limb". The leg (and lower limb) includes the upper leg, lower leg, knee and foot of the user.

As used herein the term "elongate member" refers to a member that is substantially greater in one dimension than it is in one other, if not two other dimensions. The elongate member may be rigid or flexible. An example of an elongate member is a rod (typically a curved cross- sectional profile) or bar (typically a square cross-sectional profile). The elongate member may be branched, such as in the shape of a wishbone. Generally if the elongate member of the apparatus of the present invention is flexible, it will be resilient. Preferably the flexible resilient elongate member will take the form of a flexible bar or rod, such as a fiberglass rod. The elongate member may include a plurality of flexible bars or rods, such as two flexible bars or rods. It will be understood that by combining two flexible bars the rigidity of the elongate member can be increased.

As used herein the term "first end portion", used with reference to the elongate member, refers to the portion of the elongate member that lies on one side of the lengthwise-centre of the elongate member. In some embodiments the first end portion may refer to the extreme end of the elongate member, although this is not limiting.

As used herein the "second end portion", used with reference to the elongate member, refers to the portion of the elongate member that lies on the other side of the lengthwise-centre of the elongate member to the first end portion. In some embodiments the second end portion may refer to the extreme end of the elongate member, although this is not limiting.

As used herein the term "first body attachment means" refers to a means for attaching the apparatus to the upper body region of the user when in use. This attachment will typically be by way of a harness configuration or a belt. Preferably the harness configuration will include a rigid spreader bar to lie against the back of the user, either parallel to the spine of the user or perpendicular to the spine, and a plurality of straps to releasably engage the upper body region of the user. The plurality of straps may form a harness.

As used herein the term "second body attachment means" refers to a means for attaching the apparatus to the hip region of the user when in use. This attachment will typically be by way of a harness configuration or a belt. The second body attachment means may further include a padded region and/or brace for distributing the load around the waist/lumbar region.

As used herein the term "first leg engagement member" refers to a member that engages with the first leg of the user when in use. Likewise the term "second leg engagement member" refers to a member that engages with the second leg of the user when in use. The first leg engagement member will typically engage the first leg of the user in a similar manner to the way the second leg engagement member engages the second leg of the user, although this should not be seen as limiting.

The leg engagement may be of varying degree of permanency including from merely contacting the leg of the user to releasably attaching to the leg of the user. Examples of such members include: a padded plate configured to contact the leg of the user above the knee cap in the lower thigh region; and a strap configuration adapted to wrap around the user's leg, such as their knee.

Each of the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached to the second body attachment means. The configuration of attachment of the leg engagement members to the second body attachment means may take many forms. The leg engagement members may both attach to the second body attachment means through a single point of attachment. This mode is particularly well suited to those embodiments in which the leg engagement members are coupled with a pulley and flexible elongate member, such as a cord or wire.

In some embodiments the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached through a configuration which is at least partially rigid or resilient.

Without wishing to be bound by theory it is believed that a configuration which is at least partially rigid or resilient enables the upper body support apparatus of the present invention to effectively transfer at least a portion of the weight of the upper body to the first and second leg engagement members, and thereto the legs of the user, thereby delaying fatigue for the user.

Without wishing to be bound by theory it is believed that a configuration which is at least partially rigid or resilient enables the upper body support apparatus of the present invention to effectively transfer at least a portion of the weight of the upper body to the first and second leg engagement members, and thereto the legs of the user, thereby delaying fatigue for the user.

In some embodiments the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached through a configuration which is substantially neither rigid nor resilient. For example the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member may be attached through a flexible non-resilient material such as cable or cord of a substantially fixed length. Pulleys/rollers may be used to redirect the flexible non-resilient material. In some embodiments, the movement of the first leg engagement member may lead to a tightening of the flexible non-resilient material which in turn acts upon the second leg engagement member. On the other hand, the counter-movement of the first leg engagement member may lead to a loosening (generation of slack in the flexible non-resilient material) of the flexible non-resilient material which of itself may not lead to a force acting upon the second leg engagement member, but will nonetheless permit the user of the apparatus to move the second leg engagement member in order to resume tension in the flexible non-resilient material. This action is particularly well adapted to allowing the user to maintain a normal walking stride. Without wishing to be bound by theory it is believed that a configuration in which the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member are attached through a configuration which is substantially neither rigid nor resilient can also enable the upper body support apparatus of the present invention to effectively transfer at least a portion of the weight of the upper body to the first and second leg engagement members, and thereto the legs of the user, thereby delaying fatigue for the user.

As defined herein, the elongate member is able to adopt a first position. As used herein the "first position" is adopted when the user is substantially upright and assuming the anatomical position. It will be understood that the user is able to maintain this position for a considerable period of time without suffering from fatigue. As such, the upper body support apparatus of the invention provides relatively little support to the user when the elongate member adopts the first position. Despite this relatively little support, it is typically sufficient to reduce fatigue associated with the user having extended arms.

The upper body support apparatus can also assist in reducing the compacting pressure on vertebrae and discs by providing support to the lower back muscles that otherwise must contract (and compress the vertebrae and discs) in order to provide their biomechanical function. As defined herein, the elongate member is able to adopt a second position. As used herein the "second position" is adopted when the user is bent forward from the upright position, or anatomical position. It will be understood that a person in this position is otherwise susceptible to fatigue because the weight of the upper body region must be counterbalanced by the musculature of the person acting about the skeletal frame, and the musculature is not designed to provide such counterbalance for an extended period of time.

The upper body support apparatus of the present invention provides support by providing a bias to the elongate member to move it to the first position. It is believed that this biasing action supplements the musculature of the user to reduce muscle fatigue. Such a biasing action imparts a force on the second body attachment means that should ideally be counterbalanced for maximum benefit. Part of this counterbalancing is provided by the force on the hip region of the user, however the present inventor has discovered that this force alone is insufficient to provide maximum benefit.

The present inventor has discovered that the benefit may be maximized by transferring part of the force to the legs of the user. In effect the apparatus may be thought of as providing a lever acting rearward on the upper body region (when the user is bent forward), where the waist region acts as a fulcrum and the legs provide a force acting forward to counterbalance the force of the upper body support apparatus on the upper body region. Of course, the upper body support apparatus of the invention is far from a simple lever, but an appreciation of the principle of a lever will aid in appreciation of the benefits provided by the present invention.

As such, it is believed that at least a portion of the weight of the upper body is effectively transferred to the first and second leg engagement members, and thereto the legs of the user, thereby delaying fatigue for the user.

All references, including any patents or patent applications cited in this specification are hereby incorporated by reference. No admission is made that any reference constitutes prior art. The discussion of the references states what their authors assert, and the applicants reserve the right to challenge the accuracy and pertinency of the cited documents. It will be clearly understood that, although a number of prior art publications are referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that any of these documents form part of the common general knowledge in the art, in New Zealand or in any other country.

Throughout this specification, the word "comprise", or variations thereof such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element, integer or step, or group of elements integers or steps, but not the exclusion of any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or steps. Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the present invention will become apparent from the ensuing description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fiqure 1 shows a side view of a first mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 2 shows a rear/side view of a first mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 3 shows a rear/side view of a first mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 4 shows a forward/side view of a second mode of the invention not in use and not

attached to a user; Fiqure 5 shows a rear/side view of a second mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in an upright position;

Fiqure 6 shows a close-up view of the second mode of the invention shown in Figure 5;

Fiqure 7 shows a rear/side view of a second mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position; Fiqure 8 shows a side view of a second mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 9 shows a rear/side view of a third mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 10 shows a rear/side view of a third mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 1 1 shows a side view of a third mode of the invention in use as attached to a user in a bent-forward position;

Fiqure 12 shows a schematic view of a portion of a fourth mode of the invention to show a mechanism that can be used as a replacement mechanism for the simple differential-like mechanism of the second mode described herein; Figure 13 shows a rear/side view of a fifth mode of the invention having a gas strut/spring and pulley mechanism;

Figure 14 shows a rear view of the fifth mode of the invention as worn by a user standing

upright; Figure 15 shows a front/side view of the fifth mode of the invention as worn by a user standing upright having an uneven stance with the user's left leg forward of the user's right leg;

Figure 16 shows a rear/side view of the fifth mode of the invention as worn by a user bending forward with an uneven stance with the user's left leg forward of the user's right leg;

Figure 17 shows a rear/side view of a sixth mode of the invention having a multiple pressure equalized gas struts mechanism;

Figure 18 shows a rear/side view of the sixth mode of the invention as worn by a user bending forward with an uneven stance with the user's left leg forward of the user's right leg;

Figure 19 shows a rear/side view of the sixth mode of the invention as worn by a user bending forward with an uneven stance with the user's left leg forward of the user's right leg;

Figure 20 shows a rear/side view of a seventh mode of the invention as worn by a user

standing upright having an uneven stance with the user's right leg forward of the user's left leg; and

Figure 21 shows a rear/side view of the seventh mode of the invention as worn by a user

bending forward having an uneven stance with the user's right leg forward of the user's left leg. BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Example 1 - Pulley and flexible resilient elongate member

Figure 1 shows a side view of a first mode of the invention in use by a user that is bent-forward. The user has an upper body region (2), a hip region (4), a first leg (6) and a second leg (8).

The upper body support apparatus includes an elongate member (10) which in this mode is made from a resilient material in the form of a rod. One example of such a material is a resilient member, such as a fiberglass rod. The elongate member (10) includes a first end portion (12) which is attached to a first body attachment means (14) configured for attaching to the upper body region (2) of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion of the elongate member may be movable so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user.

In this mode the first body attachment means includes a harness which includes a shoulder mount (16) and a chest mount (18) which are integral and configured to releasably engage the upper body region of the user. The shoulder mount (16) and chest mount (18) may be connected in the rear region by a rigid metal bar, often referred to as a spreader bar.

Advantageously the first body attachment means may distribute the force on the upper body in a substantially even manner across a portion of the upper body of the user. The elongate member (10) also includes a second end portion (20) which is attached to a second body attachment means (22) configured for attaching to the hip region (4) of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a belt, optionally with additional padding in the lumbar region to distribute the force across a portion of the hip region of the user.

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (24) configured for attaching to the first leg (6) of the user. In this mode the leg engagement member includes a strap or straps for cinching around the knee region of the leg, by way of a yoke mechanism to distribute forces about the knee region. The leg engagement member will typically releasably engage the leg, in this case by means of a drawstring or the like.

Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (26) configured for attaching to the second leg (8) of the user. The mode of engagement of the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member will typically be the same, as it is in this mode, although this is not seen as limiting and the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member may engage their respective legs through different mechanisms. In this mode the leg engagement member includes a strap or straps for cinching around the knee region of the leg.

In this mode, the first leg engagement member (24) and the second leg engagement member (26) are attached to the second body attachment means (22) by:

• a further elongate member (28) which in this mode is made of a resilient member in the form of a fiberglass rod; · a pulley (30); and

• a flexible elongate member (32), such as a cord or wire.

The first leg engagement member (24) and the second leg engagement member (26) are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other. In this mode the reciprocal movement is provided by means of the pulley and cord. The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance (as shown) with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal stride, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

The elongate member (10) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position (not shown) the user is substantially upright and in this mode the resilient fiberglass rod will be substantially straight and will apply no substantial force to the upper body support apparatus. The elongate member is movable to a second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward, an example of such a position is shown in Figure 1 . In that position the elongate member is biased to the first position by the action of the resilient material.

The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time.

Figure 2 shows a rear/side view of the first mode of the invention, to more clearly depict the pulley (30) and flexible elongate member (32), such as a cord or wire.

Figure 3 shows a rear/reverse side view of the first mode of the invention.

Example 2 - simple differential-like mechanism and rigid elongate member with spring

Figure 4 shows a front/side view of a second mode of the invention not in use by a user.

The second mode provides an advantage over the first mode of the invention in those circumstances where the user requires working space between the legs of the body that would otherwise be fouled by the pulley mechanism of the first mode. Examples of circumstances where such working space is required is when shearing or using a chainsaw.

The upper body support apparatus includes an elongate member (40) which in this mode is made from a rigid material in the form of a rod. One example of such a material is steel, including stainless steel. The elongate member (40) includes a first end portion (42) which is attached to a first body attachment means (44) configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion of the elongate member may be movable so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user. One mechanism allowing for such movement is a pulley which can run along the elongate member (40).

In this mode the first body attachment means includes a harness which includes a shoulder mount (46) and a chest mount (48) which are integral and configured to releasably engage the upper body region of the user. The shoulder mount (46) and chest mount (48) may be connected in the rear region by a rigid metal bar, often referred to as a spreader bar.

Advantageously the first body attachment means may distribute the force on the upper body in a substantially even manner across a portion of the upper body of the user.

The elongate member (40) also includes a second end portion (50) which is attached by one or more springs (52) to a second body attachment means (54). The second body attachment means is configured for attaching to the hip region of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a hip brace which is further supplemented by a belt (not shown).

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (56) configured for engaging the first leg of the user. The first leg engagement member (56) is attached to the second body attachment means (54) by a rigid elongate member (58).

Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (60) configured for engaging the second leg of the user. The second leg engagement member (60) is attached to the second body attachment means (54) by a rigid elongate member (62).

In this mode the first and second leg engagement members include a curved plate shaped to substantially align with the lower thigh of the user, above the knee cap. The curved plate may be padded for user comfort. It will be understood that such an engagement member is readily releasable by the user by moving the leg away from the engagement member.

In order to provide an enhanced fit with the thighs of the user, particularly when the user is walking, the leg engagement members are provided with a mechanism (64) allowing limited movement of the leg engagement members (56 and 60) with respect to the rigid elongate members (58 and 62 respectively). This limited movement mechanism is provided in this mode by the rigid elongate member sliding in a slotted track by means of a knuckle ball in a sliding piston arrangement, although this particular mechanism is provided by way of example only and is not intended to be limiting. In this mode, advantageously the legs are able to be rotated rearward behind the user's back to be retrieved again when needed by means of a flexible joint (65) near the point of attachment of the rigid elongate members to the second body attachment means (54).

Figure 5 shows a rear view of the second mode shown in figure 4. As can be seen when contrasting the view in figure 4 with the view in figure 5, in use the position of the first body attachment means (44) has moved in relation to the elongate member (40). This ability to move the position of attachment accommodates users of different heights and also

accommodates changes in posture when the user bends forward from a substantially upright position. It will be understood that, despite not being located at the very extremity, or end, of the elongate member, the first body attachment means is still understood to be attached at the first end portion of the elongate member.

The user in Figure 5 is in a substantially upright position and the elongate member (40) has been biased to, and remains in, the first position.

The rigid elongate member (62) is attached to a shaft (66) which terminates in a crown wheel (67), alternatively referred to as a crown circle, crown gear or crown bevel. The rigid elongate member (58, shown in Figure 4) is attached to a shaft (68) which terminates in a crown wheel (69). The two crown wheels engage the same pinion (not shown), otherwise referred to as a spider gear, planetary gear or planetary bevel, so as to form a simple differential-like mechanism (70). The rotary movement of shaft (66) acts through the pinion to transfer a counter-rotation to the other shaft (68). Likewise the movement of shaft (68) acts through the pinion to transfer a counter-rotation to the other shaft (66). This type of simple differential-like mechanism acts to impart a reciprocal motion between the two shafts, and hence the two rigid elongate members and hence the first and second leg engagement members.

An exploded view of the simple differential-like mechanism is shown in Figure 6 from the same view as Figure 5. The two shafts of the simple differential-like mechanism are shown as (66) and (68) for cross reference to Figure 5.

Accordingly, returning to view Figure 4, the first leg engagement member (56) and the second leg engagement member (60) are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other. In this mode the reciprocal movement is provided by means of the simple differential-like mechanism.

The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance (as shown in Figure 7) with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal stride, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

The elongate member (40, Figure 4) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position (shown in Figure 5) the user is substantially upright and in this mode the spring (52, Figure 4) will be in a neutral position, imparting no force on the position of the elongate member. The elongate member is movable to a second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward, an example of such a position is shown in Figure 7. In that position the elongate member is biased to the first position by the rotational action of the spring (52). This rotational action is held in equilibrium by the weight of the upper body of the user and the force transferred through to the first and second leg engagement members.

The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time. Figure 8 is a side view of the user in a bent forward position wherein the mechanism (64) has allowed limited movement of the leg engagement member (60) with respect to the rigid elongate member (62).

Example 3 - swingletree and rigid elongate member with elastic member

Figure 9 is a rear/side view of a third mode of the invention in use by a user that is bent- forward.

The upper body support apparatus includes an elongate member (80) which in this mode is made from a rigid material in the form of a rod. One example of such a material is steel, including stainless steel. The elongate member (80) includes a first end portion (82) which is attached to a first body attachment means (84) configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion of the elongate member may be movable so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user.

The elongate member (80) also includes a second end portion (86) which is attached to a second body attachment means (88) configured for attaching to the hip region of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a belt, optionally with additional padding in the lumbar region to distribute the force across a portion of the hip region of the user.

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (90) configured for engaging the first leg of the user. In this mode the leg engagement member includes a strap or straps for cinching around the knee region of the leg, by way of a yoke mechanism to distribute forces about the knee region. The leg engagement member will typically releasably engage the leg, in this case by means of a drawstring or the like.

Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (not shown) configured for engaging the second leg of the user. The mode of engagement of the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member will typically be the same, as it is in this mode, although this is not seen as limiting and the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member may engage their respective legs through different mechanisms. In this mode the leg engagement member includes a strap or straps for cinching around the knee region of the leg. In this mode, the first leg engagement member (90) and the second leg engagement member (not shown in Figure 9, shown as 98 in Figure 10) are attached to the second body attachment means (88) by rigid elongate members (92) and (94) respectively.

The first leg engagement member (90) and the second leg engagement member (not shown in Figure 9, shown as 98 in Figure 10) are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other. In this mode the reciprocal movement is provided by means of a swingletree mechanism (96). It will be understood that a swingletree is a bar mechanism typically having an offset axis of rotation. As such any equivalent bar mechanism will suffice for the purpose of achieving reciprocal motion.

The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance (as shown) with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal stride, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

The elongate member (90) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position (not shown) the user is substantially upright and in this mode the elastic member (98) will typically apply a first force substantially coaxial with the longitudinal (spinal) axis of the user. The elongate member is movable to a second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward, an example of such a position is shown in Figure 9. In that position the elongate member is biased to the first position by the action of the elastic member, typically pivoting the elongate member about a hinge mechanism (97) at the attachment point of the elongate member to the second body attachment means (88). The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time.

Figure 10 is a rear/side view of the third mode of the invention in use in which the relative movement of the swingletree (96) mechanism between a particular stance of the user and the reversed stance of the user in Figure 9 can be seen. Figure 1 1 is a side view of the third mode of the invention in use in which the user has an even stance and the swingletree is evenly arranged.

Example 4 - Idler wheel (pulley) reciprocal motion mechanism

As an alternate mechanism for providing a reciprocal movement between the two leg engagement members, the simple differential-like mechanism of the second mode can be replaced with a pulley mechanism using an idler wheel and a flexible elongate member, such as cord or wire. This mechanism is shown schematically in Figure 12. In this mechanism, shaft (100) is equivalent to shaft (68) in Figure 5 and shaft (102) is equivalent to shaft (66) in Figure 5 and it will be appreciated that each shaft is attached the respective leg engagement members.

As to be contrasted with the simple differential-like mechanism of the second mode, the mechanism of the fourth mode does not employ crown wheels or a pinion. Instead the shaft (100) moves in relation to shaft (102) by the action of a flexible elongate member (104), such as a cord or wire, which passes over an idler wheel (106). By way of example, as shaft (100) rotates, the flexible elongate member (104) can unwind from the spool (108) around shaft

(100), thereby causing the idler wheel (106) to rotate in a clockwise direction as shown, causing slack to generate at the spool (1 10) around shaft (102). This slack may be taken up around the spool (1 10) by rotation of shaft (102). It will be recognized that the direction of rotation of shaft (102) shown with an exemplary arrow (1 12) is contrarotatory to the direction of rotation of shaft (100) shown with an exemplary arrow (1 14).

Hence the idler wheel mechanism of the fourth mode allows for the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member to move reciprocally in relation to each other.

Example 5 - Gas strut/spring and pulley mechanism Figure 13 shows a further mode of the invention in which the apparatus includes a pulley mechanism using a cord (or cable) and an idler wheel mounted at the end of a pneumatic gas strut (otherwise known as a gas spring).

The upper body support apparatus includes a pair of elongate members (200 and 200A) which in this mode are each made from a resilient material in the form of a rod. One example of such a resilient material is fiberglass having a diameter of 6mm and being approximately 350 mm long. The elongate members (200 and 200A) each include a first end portion (202 and 202A) which are attached to a first body attachment means (204) configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion of the elongate member may be movable so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user. One mechanism allowing for such movement is a sliding block (206) that can slide up and down a region of the elongate members. The sliding block (206) can be retained using an upper stop (208) and a lower stop (210).

This ability to move the position of attachment accommodates users of different heights and also accommodates changes in posture when the user bends forward from a substantially upright position. It will be understood that, despite not being located at the very extremity, or end, of the elongate member, the first body attachment means is still understood to be attached at the first end portion of the elongate member.

The elongate members (200 and 200A) are biased to a substantially straight alignment so as to bias the user to a substantially upright position. The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time.

In this mode the first body attachment means (204) includes a harness which includes a chest plate (212) connected to the sliding block (206) through a pair of rigid elongate members (214 and 214A). The rigid elongate members may be made using 7mm high tensile rod, and may include reinforcing sections of rod to provide enhanced rigidity. The rigid elongate members (214 and 214A) are configured to pass underneath the armpits of the user in use so as to retain the chest plate in proximity to the chest region of the user. As the user bends forward, the chest imparts a force on the chest plate (212) which is transferred to the sliding block (206) so that it slides towards the upper stop (208) and likewise the force is transferred to the first end portions (202 and 202A) of the elongate members (200 and 200A). At least one of the rigid elongate members (214 and 214A) is configured to releasably engage the chest plate (212) so that the rigid elongate member can be rotated about the axis of the straight portion (216) to allow the user to position their chest against the inside surface of the chest plate (212).

To assist with installing the apparatus on the torso of the user, the first body attachment means (204) also includes a shoulder strap (218) having a first end (220) connected to the sliding block (206) and a second end (222) connected to the chest plate (212). The shoulder strap may be made of webbing, such as nylon webbing having a width of 25 mm. Typically the user will attach the first body attachment means (204) before attaching the remainder of the apparatus to the body. Advantageously the first body attachment means (204) may distribute the force on the upper body in a substantially even manner across a portion of the upper body of the user.

The elongate members (200 and 200A) each also include a second end portion (224 and 224A) which is attached through attachment member (226) to a second body attachment means (228). The second body attachment means (228) is configured for attaching to the hip region of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a rigid hip brace (230) which is further supplemented by a belt (232).

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (234) configured for engaging the first leg of the user. The first leg engagement member (234) is attached to the second body attachment means (228) by a rigid elongate member (236) and a turntable hinge (238). The turntable hinge (238) is positioned substantially over the hip joint of the user so as to allow the same degree of biomechanical freedom to the user moving their leg in a normal walking gait.

Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (240) configured for engaging the second leg of the user. The second leg engagement member (240) is attached to the second body attachment means (228) by a rigid elongate member (242) and a turntable hinge (244). The turntable hinge (238) is positioned substantially over the hip joint of the user so as to allow the same degree of biomechanical freedom to the user moving their leg in a normal walking gait. In this mode the first and second leg engagement members include a curved plate shaped to substantially align with the lower thigh of the user, above the knee cap. The curved plate may be padded for user comfort. It will be understood that such an engagement member is readily releasable by the user by moving the leg away from the engagement member.

In order to provide an enhanced fit with the thighs of the user, particularly when the user is walking, the leg engagement members (234 and 240) are hinged (246 and 248) to the respective rigid elongate members (236 and 242) allowing limited movement of the leg engagement members (234 and 240) with respect to the rigid elongate members (236 and 242 respectively).

The outer extremity of turntable hinge (238) also acts as a guide for a cord (250) which is secured to the end portion (252) of the rigid elongate member (236).

The or each turntable hinge may have an outer diameter of from 80 mm and 120 mm, such as from 90 mm to 1 10 mm, such as 95 mm. It is believed that this diameter provides an optimal torque force during movement of the leg which is imparted to the cord.

The cord (250) is redirected through a series of pulleys (254, 256, 258 (not shown), 260 (not shown), 262 (not shown), 264 and 266) to be secured to the end portion (268) of the rigid elongate member (242). The pulleys may be steel bushed pulleys, although this should not be seen as limiting.

Tension is maintained on the cord (250) through the extending action of gas strut (270). The first end (272) of gas strut (270) is attached to the rigid hip brace (230) through a hinge that allows rotation of the gas strut (270) towards and away from the chest plate (212). The second end (274, not shown) of gas strut (270) is hingeably attached to pulley (260, not shown) and the second end (274) and pulley (260) are configured to be able to slide within a cavity within sliding block (206). In this way, as the user bends forward and the elongate members (200 and 200A) bend, the gas strut is able to maintain a substantially parallel relationship with the elongate members (200 and 200A) as well as the user's spine. This sliding movement of the second end (274) of the gas strut and the pulley (260) within the cavity with the sliding block (206) is most noticeable when comparing the position in Figure 14 where it has extended out of the sliding block and Figure 16 where it has withdrawn into the cavity in the sliding block. The internal gas cylinder of gas strut (270) may be held in fluid communication with the internal gas cylinder of a pressurized header tank (276) connected through tubing (278), such as 4 mm air tubing. The internal pressure of the header tank (276) and gas strut (270) may be modulated by the user through a tube (280) connected through a T-piece (282). The tube (280) terminates in a valve (not shown) located on the anterior of the chest plate (212) and the pressure may be increased using a pump and decreased using a release valve, typically on the pump.

Advantageously, by modulating the pressure of the header tank (276) and gas strut (270), the user is able to customize the degree of resistance provided by the upper body support apparatus in use. Such customization is particularly advantageous to take account of differing user weights and differing activities. For example, when the pressure is reduced the user will find it relatively easy to bend forward, but the return bias force will be reduced. On the other hand, when the pressure is increased the user will find it relatively difficult to bend forward, but the return bias force will be increased and the user will experience less fatigue as a result.

In use the device operates to substantially equally transfer mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward. In particular, the presence of the cord and pulley system equalizes the force between the two leg engagement members and provides a reciprocal motion between the two leg engagement members. By virtue of the cord having a substantially fixed length (accounting for stretch in the material), the two leg engagement members are able to move in a reciprocal relationship to each other, with the movement modulated by the upper pulley (260) being able to move up/down relative to the sliding block (206).

The resilience of the elongate members (200 and 200A) and the internal pressure of the gas strut largely determine the magnitude of the force on the upper body of the user.

The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal gait, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

Example 6 - Multiple pressure equalized gas struts mechanism

Figure 17 shows a further mode of the invention in which the apparatus includes pressure equalized pneumatic gas struts mounted to turntable hinges operating in unison with the movement of respective legs relative to the hips of the user. The upper body support apparatus includes a pair of elongate members (300 and 300A) which in this mode are each made from a resilient material in the form of a rod. One example of such a resilient material is fiberglass having a diameter of 6mm and being approximately 350 mm long. The elongate members (300 and 300A) each include a first end portion (302 and 302A) which are attached to a first body attachment means (304) configured for attaching to the upper body region of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion of the elongate member may be movable so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user. One mechanism allowing for such movement is a sliding block (306) that can slide up and down a region of the elongate members. The sliding block (306) can be retained using an upper stop (308) and a lower stop (310). This ability to move the position of attachment accommodates users of different heights and also accommodates changes in posture when the user bends forward from a substantially upright position. It will be understood that, despite not being located at the very extremity, or end, of the elongate member, the first body attachment means is still understood to be attached at the first end portion of the elongate member. The elongate members (300 and 300A) are biased to a substantially straight alignment so as to bias the user to a substantially upright position. The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time.

In this mode the first body attachment means (304) includes a harness which includes a chest plate (312) connected to the sliding block (306) through a pair of rigid elongate members (314 and 314A). The rigid elongate members (314 and 314A) are configured to pass underneath the armpits of the user in use so as to retain the chest plate in proximity to the chest region of the user. As the user bends forward, the chest imparts a force on the chest plate (312) which is transferred to the sliding block (306) so that it slides towards the upper stop (208) and likewise the force is transferred to the first end portions (302 and 302A) of the elongate members (300 and 300A). At least one of the rigid elongate members (314 and 314A) is configured to releasably engage the chest plate (312) or sliding block (306) so that the rigid elongate members (314 and 314A) can be moved in relation to each other to allow the user to position their chest against the inside surface of the chest plate (312). To assist with installing the apparatus on the torso of the user, the first body attachment means (304) also includes a shoulder strap (318) having a first end (320) connected to the sliding block (306) and a second end (322) connected to the chest plate (312). The shoulder strap may be made of webbing, such as nylon webbing having a width of 25 mm. Typically the user will attach the first body attachment means (304) before attaching the remainder of the apparatus to the body.

Advantageously the first body attachment means (304) may distribute the force on the upper body in a substantially even manner across a portion of the upper body of the user.

The elongate members (300 and 300A) each also include a second end portion (324 and 324A) which is attached through attachment member (326) to a second body attachment means (328). The second body attachment means (328) is configured for attaching to the hip region of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a rigid hip brace (330) which is further supplemented by a belt (332).

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (334) configured for engaging the first leg of the user. The first leg engagement member (334) is attached to the second body attachment means (328) by a rigid elongate member (336) and a turntable hinge (338). The turntable hinge (338) is positioned substantially over the hip joint of the user so as to allow the same degree of biomechanical freedom to the user moving their leg in a normal walking gait.

Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (340) configured for engaging the second leg of the user. The second leg engagement member (340) is attached to the second body attachment means (328) by a rigid elongate member (342) and a turntable hinge (344). The turntable hinge (338) is positioned substantially over the hip joint of the user so as to allow the same degree of biomechanical freedom to the user moving their leg in a normal walking gait. In this mode the first and second leg engagement members include a curved plate shaped to substantially align with the lower thigh of the user, above the knee cap. The curved plate may be padded for user comfort. It will be understood that such an engagement member is readily releasable by the user by moving the leg away from the engagement member. To restrain the user's leg to the leg engagement member, webbing (346 and 346A) with buckles (348 and 348A) may be used. In order to provide an enhanced fit with the thighs of the user, particularly when the user is walking, the leg engagement members (334 and 340) are hinged (350 and 352) to the respective rigid elongate members (336 and 342) allowing limited movement of the leg engagement members (334 and 340) with respect to the rigid elongate members (336 and 342 respectively). In this way the leg engagement members can be rotated laterally away from the front of the user's legs, particularly when their use is not desired.

To the turntable hinge (338) is mounted a gas strut (354) through an attachment member (356) that allows concomitant compression of the gas strut (354) as the leg engagement member (334) is urged forward by the user and the turntable hinge (338) rotates. Likewise, as the user urges the leg engagement member (334) backwards and the turntable hinge (338) rotates the gas strut (354) will undergo decompression.

The internal gas cylinder of gas strut (354) is held in fluid communication with the internal gas cylinder of a second gas strut (358) mounted to the turntable hinge (344) through an

attachment member (360). By holding the internal gas cylinders of the two gas struts in fluid communication, the pressure exerted by each leg engagement member on each leg of the users is equalized. Fluid communication may be provided by tubing (364) which is also connected to header tank (364) and holds the gas struts (354 and 358) in fluid communication and equalized pressure with the header tank (364). The internal pressure of the gas struts (354 and 358) and header tank can be increased by the user through valve (366) using a pump and decreased using a release valve, typically on the pump.

Advantageously, by modulating the pressure of the header tank (364) and gas struts (354 and 358), the user is able to customize the degree of resistance provided by the upper body support apparatus in use. Such customization is particularly advantageous to take account of differing user weights and differing activities. For example, when the pressure is reduced the user will find it relatively easy to bend forward through rotation of the legs about the hips, but the return bias force will be reduced. On the other hand, when the pressure is increased the user will find it relatively difficult to bend forward through rotation of the legs about the hips, but the return bias force will be increased and the user will experience less fatigue as a result.

In use the device operates to substantially equally transfer mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward. In particular, the presence of the pressure equalized gas struts and header tank equalizes the force between the two leg engagement members and provides a reciprocal motion between the two leg engagement members. By virtue of the concomitant equal pressurization of the gas struts by the compression of one gas strut when one leg is rotated forward, there is an equal and opposite force applied to the other gas strut. Thus the two leg engagement members are able to move in a reciprocal relationship to each other. The resilience of the elongate members (300 and 300A) and the internal pressure of the gas struts largely determine the magnitude of the force on the upper body of the user.

The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal stride, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

Example 7 - Rotatable resilient members

Figure 20 shows an alternate mode of the invention in use by a user that is upright. The user has an upper body region (402), a hip region (404), a first leg (406) and a second leg (408).

The upper body support apparatus includes an elongate member (410) which in this mode is made from a resilient material in the form of two rods, although a single rod would suffice. One example of such a material is fiberglass rod. The elongate member (410) includes a first end portion (412) which is attached to a first body attachment means (414) configured for attaching to the upper body region (402) of the user of the apparatus. The attachment point (416) of the upper body attachment means to the first end portion (412) of the elongate member is movable, such as by sliding along the elongate member (410), so as to adjust for the height and/or movement of the user.

In this mode the first body attachment means (414) includes a rib brace spreader bar (418) connected via a pair of straps (420, one of the pair not shown) to a shoulder retaining member (422) which are configured to releasably engage the upper body region (402) of the user.

Advantageously the first body attachment means may distribute the force on the upper body in a substantially even manner across a portion of the upper body of the user.

The elongate member (410) also includes a second end portion (424) which is attached to a second body attachment means (426) configured for attaching to the hip region (404) of the user. In this mode the means of attachment is a belt (428), optionally with additional padding (430) in the lumbar region to distribute the force across a portion of the hip region of the user.

The upper body support apparatus also includes a first leg engagement member (432) configured for attaching to the first leg (406) of the user. In this mode the leg engagement member includes two straps (434) for cinching around the thigh region of the leg. The leg engagement member (432) will typically releasably engage the leg, in this case by means of a buckle on each strap. Likewise the upper body support apparatus also includes a second leg engagement member (436) configured for attaching to the second leg (408) of the user. The mode of engagement of the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member will typically be the same, as it is in this mode, although this is not seen as limiting and the first leg engagement member and the second leg engagement member may engage their respective legs through different mechanisms. In this mode the leg engagement member (436) includes two straps (438, one not shown) for cinching around the thigh region of the leg.

In this mode, the first leg engagement member (432) is attached to the second body attachment means (426) by: · a further elongate member (440) which in this mode is made of a resilient member in the form of a fiberglass rod;

• a yoke (442);

• a still further elongate member (444); and

• a hinged spacing member (446). In this mode, the second leg engagement member (436) is attached to the second body attachment means (426) by:

• a further elongate member (448) which in this mode is made of a resilient member in the form of a fiberglass rod;

• a yoke (442); · a still further elongate member (444); and

• a hinged spacing member (446).

The first leg engagement member (432) and the second leg engagement member (436) are configured to move reciprocally in relation to each other. In this mode the reciprocal movement is provided by means of the rotation of the yoke about the axis provided by elongate member (444). The reciprocal motion enables the user to hold an uneven stance (as shown) with one foot in a forward position in relation to the other foot, while still maintaining an attachment to the remainder of the upper body support apparatus. The reciprocal motion also enables the user to walk with a substantially normal stride, as one leg moves forward, the other leg moves back, relative to the hip region and upper body region of the user. Further modulation is provided by the bending action of the elongate members (440) and (448). Advantageously the reciprocal movement provided by the apparatus allows the force generated by the mechanical advantage provided to the upper body by the apparatus to be transferred substantially equally between the two leg engagement members when the user is bent forward.

The elongate member (410) is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position (shown in Figure 20) the user is substantially upright and in this mode the resilient fiberglass rod will be substantially straight and will apply no substantial force to the upper body support apparatus. The elongate member is movable to a second position when the upper body of the user is bent forward, an example of such a position is shown in Figure 21 . In that position the elongate member is biased to the first position by the action of the resilient material. The biasing action is also enhanced by the bending of elongate members (444) and (448), which themselves are biased to urge the user to straighten the legs through the hips. In particular, Figure 21 shows the curvature of elongate members (410), (440) and (448).

The biasing action acting upon the elongate member provides the user with a mechanical advantage with the desired effect of reducing fatigue when the user is adopting a bent forward position for a sustained period of time.

The invention may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of said parts, elements or features.

Aspects of the present invention have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope thereof as defined in the appended claims.