| 摘要 |
<p>A method and apparatus (20) for accommodating a saddle (24) on the back of a horse (22) whose anatomy does not conform to the shape of the saddle (24) in that the lengths of its leg bones (40) are different causing its scapulae (44) to be at different heights. The apparatus (20) includes inflatable chambers (130, 132) supported on the back (28) of a horse (22) under the saddle (24) at predetermined regions over the scapula (44), the ribs (50) adjacent thereto and the overlying muscles (60, 62, 64) and that are independently inflatable to transfer part of the weight of the saddle (24) and a rider from the scapula (44) to the adjacent ribs (50) and overlying muscles (60, 62, 64) thereby to distribute the load more evenly and also to level the saddle (24). The method involves the proper positioning of the chambers (130, 132) before mounting the horse (22) and the adjustment of the inflation of the chambers (130, 132) by the rider both before and after mounting and after completing a ride.</p> |
