Abstract: A cuff having stimulating electrodes providing a wakefulness electrical signal and a counter sleepiness electrical signal and a sleepiness detector coupled to a control unit. The sleepiness detector detects an indicator of the onset of sleep, such as the heart rate, and provides a signal to the control unit. The control unit analyzes the heart rate and determines signs of sleepiness. Upon the detection of signs of sleepiness, the counter sleepiness electrical signal is provided to the stimulating electrodes, which contract muscles in a user, preferably the calf muscles. The muscle contraction provides a stimulus and improves circulation that prevents undesired sleep and maintains wakefulness. Alertness is also increased. The present invention is an aid in preventing sleepiness for use in many activities, such as prolonged driving, and performing other tedious or routine tasks.

Abstract: An elongated rectangular cuff having electrodes combined with a motion detector for detecting muscle contraction with an attached control unit for providing a predetermined electrical signal to the electrodes. The predetermined electrical signal is substantially a square wave with a duration of between 0.1 and 0.3 milliseconds, a frequency of between 0.1 and 0.5 Hertz, with 5 to 15 repetitions delivered every 5 to 15 minute intervals. The control unit provides a controllable intensity of between 0.20 to 4 milliamperes, and a voltage between 1 and 200 volts at an output resistance of substantially 50 kilo Ohms. The cuff or sleeve, when wrapped around a user's leg and positioned below the knee such that the electrodes contact the calf muscles, causes a muscle and nerve stimulation resulting in contraction of the calf muscle. A motion detector monitors the contraction and provides feedback to the control unit to adjust the signal.

Abstract: An elongated rectangular cuff having fasteners and electrodes with an attached control unit for providing a predetermined electrical signal to the electrodes. The predetermined electrical signal is substantially a square wave with a duration of between 0.1 and 0.3 milliseconds, a frequency of between 0.1 and 0.5 Hertz, with 5 to 15 repetitions delivered every 5 to 15 minute intervals. The control unit provides a controllable intensity of between 1 to 20 milliamperes. The cuff or sleeve, when wrapped around a user's leg and positioned below the knee such that the electrodes contact the calf muscles, causes a muscle and nerve stimulation resulting in contraction of the calf muscle. Blood flow is therefore increased regardless of body position or a movement greatly decreasing the possibility of developing deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, which may be fatal. In addition it reduces ankle edema and leg discomfort associated with prolonged sitting.