Having Individual Structure Engaging Each Finger Used Patents (Class 482/47)
  • Patent number: 11179263
    Abstract: Therefore, aspects of some embodiments of the present invention, relates to a device for suppressing essential tremors comprising a glove and wires integrated thereon. The glove is configured to fit on a user's hand. The wires may be attached to the posterior or anterior surface of the glove and configured to supply resistance to movements of the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2021
    Inventors: Savannah Ashley Cofer, Alexander LiChen, Meredith Josephine Schroeder, Varun Venkat Vallabhaneni, Ashton Cameron Cofer
  • Patent number: 11083233
    Abstract: A wearer is able to exercise the posterior (flex) muscles of the hand. Elastic bands attached to the glove cause the fingers to contract toward the palm and provide resistance when the fingers are straightened. The elastic bands are secured by bandlettes attached to the fingers and thumb of the glove. Palmlettes are attached at the base of the palm to keep the bands clear of the palm while wearing, so that ordinary tasks can be performed while wearing the glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2021
    Inventor: Felix King, III
  • Patent number: 11033773
    Abstract: A handle finger stop protrusion is disclosed herein. The handle finger stop protrusion is configured to be coupled to a handle body portion of a handle assembly. The handle finger stop protrusion includes a main body portion, the main body portion configured to be coupled to and extend outwardly from a first surface of the handle body portion, the main body portion configured to receive a thumb of a hand of a user pressing thereagainst so that the thumb of the user is configured to oppose a plurality of fingers other than the thumb of the hand of the user wrapped around an edge of the handle body portion so as to create a secure and safe grip of the handle assembly by the user. A handle assembly that includes at least one handle finger stop protrusion is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Barton Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Jeffrey Barton, David Joseph Barton, Sara Anne Barton
  • Patent number: 10722784
    Abstract: A system provides bi-manual game-based integrative therapy combining cognitive training with mild upper body physical exercising during game play. The system includes a pair of interfaces tracking a user's arms in 3D and detect trigger pressing. Custom therapeutic game controllers that detect grasping force, finger extension, 3D hand position, skin temperature and pulse may be used. Using one of these interfaces the patient plays a series of custom games displayed on a laptop, medical grade workstation, or other computer platform. The whole therapeutic system may be integrated on a medical cart, so to make the system mobile and easier to place in a clinical setting. Games were designed to improve motor control, shoulder strength, finger and arm range of motion, task sequencing, focusing, decision making (executive function), short term and long term visual/auditory memory, and were progressed in difficulty over 6 to 8 weeks of therapy. This therapy reduces depression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Bright Cloud International Corporation
    Inventors: Grigore Cristian Burdea, Doru Tadeusz Roll, Nam-Hun Kim, Kevin Abraham Polistico, Ashwin Kadaru
  • Patent number: 10646749
    Abstract: The resistance exercise glove is a therapeutic device and a garment worn on a hand. The resistance exercise glove exercises the hand by providing an opposing force that works against the movement of the hand. The opposing force provides a resistance based therapeutic exercise that strengthens the hand. The resistance exercise glove comprises a glove, a plurality of resistance bands, a pocket, and a squeeze device. The glove is further defined with a front side, a rear side, and an opening. The hand inserts into the glove through the opening. The plurality of resistance bands attach to the rear side of the glove such that each of the resistance bands opposes the bending of a finger. The pocket is formed on the front side of the glove. The pocket contains the squeeze device. The squeeze device is an elastomeric device that opposes the squeezing motion of the hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Inventor: Phillip Williams
  • Patent number: 10492548
    Abstract: A glove having a top surface and a bottom surface is described herein. The top surface and the bottom surface each have an inner surface and an outer surface. The glove includes a plurality of resistance bands, which can be configured to be removably attached to the glove. The resistance bands can be removably attached at connection points on the outer surface of the glove. The glove can also include at least one adjustable resistance mechanism connected to the glove. The adjustable resistance mechanism is configured to adjust degrees of resistance to motion via the resistance bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2019
    Inventors: Dean R. Marriott, Daniel A. Sawchuk, Jonathan A. Cheung
  • Patent number: 10376770
    Abstract: A striking glove may comprise an inner glove, an outer shell, and at least one strap at least partially disposed within a dorsal cavity between the inner glove and the outer shell. A portion of the at least one strap disposed within the dorsal cavity may be configured in an overlapped and crossed configuration. The ends of the at least one strap may extend from the dorsal cavity to an exterior of the striking glove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: XON Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor Gene Wittman
  • Patent number: 10222859
    Abstract: A human-computer interface system having an exoskeleton including a plurality of structural members coupled to one another by at least one articulation configured to apply a force to a body segment of a user, the exoskeleton comprising a body-borne portion and a point-of-use portion; the body-borne portion configured to be operatively coupled to the point-of-use portion; and at least one locomotor module including at least one actuator configured to actuate the at least one articulation, the at least one actuator being in operative communication with the exoskeleton.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: HAPTX INC.
    Inventors: Jacob A. Rubin, Robert S. Crockett
  • Patent number: 9878452
    Abstract: A system includes a glove, sensors, actuator assemblies, and controller. The sensors include load sensors which measure an actual grasping force and attitude sensors which determine a glove attitude. The actuator assembly provides a grasp assist force to the glove. Respective locations of work cells in the work environment and permitted work tasks for each work cell are programmed into the controller. The controller detects the glove location and attitude. A work task is selected by the controller for the location. The controller calculates a required grasp assist force using measured actual grasping forces from the load sensors. The required grasp assist force is applied via the glove using the actuator assembly to thereby assist the operator in performing the identified work task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2018
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, The United States of America As Represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Donald R. Davis, Chris A. Ihrke, Evan Laske
  • Patent number: 9700758
    Abstract: A hand and finger exercise apparatus to exercise fingers or compress the entire apparatus for complete hand and forearm strengthening, and to replace interchangeable finger button pieces with different resistance. The apparatus permits the user to easily and quickly change resistance to any finger by changing the finger button piece. The finger buttons snap into the base with ease, and are removed with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Inventor: Elliott Goldberg
  • Patent number: 9597547
    Abstract: A hand and finger exerciser apparatus having a base unit structure, resiliently-biased slidable finger button devices, a movable thumb button device rotatably connected to the base unit structure, and a mechanism for selectively locking and unlocking the finger button devices. Each finger button device can be used independently to exercise fingers, or compress the entire unit for complete hand and forearm strengthening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Inventor: Elliott Goldberg
  • Patent number: 9474932
    Abstract: A hand and finger exercise apparatus to exercise fingers or compress the entire apparatus for complete hand and forearm strengthening, and to replace interchangeable first finger button pieces with different resistance. There is also included a second finger button piece having non-adjustable means. The apparatus permits the user to easily and quickly change finger button pieces. The finger button pieces snap into the base with ease, and are removed with ease.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Inventor: Elliott Goldberg
  • Patent number: 9463355
    Abstract: A therapeutic glove includes two glove bodies. The hand is inserted into the inner body (310), which is shaped like a glove. The outer body (320) can also be like a glove or part of a glove, but the outer body's back side can be pulled towards the wrist and attached to the inner body to adjust the glove tension. In some embodiments, the glove has a single body or multiple bodies, and the glove creates a force that pushes the fingers (or at least some fingers) to a straight position away from the palm. In some embodiments, the glove is thinner on the palm side than the back side. Other embodiments are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2016
    Inventor: Rufus Davis
  • Patent number: 9421419
    Abstract: A hand and finger exerciser apparatus having a base unit structure, resiliently-biased slidable finger button devices, and a mechanism for selectively locking and unlocking the finger button devices. Each finger button device can be used independently to exercise fingers, or compress the entire unit for complete hand and forearm strengthening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Inventor: Elliott Goldberg
  • Patent number: 9333105
    Abstract: A support device for protecting one or more portions of a user's hand or arm by limiting movement thereof includes a base surface for contacting a floor or other object adjacent to the device, a curved support surface extending from the base surface, and a plurality or orifices formed in the support surface. A user's fingers and thumb can be placed through the orifices to allow the palm of the hand to rest on a portion of the support surface, suspending the heel of the hand above the support device and aligning the user's wrist with the heel. The fingers may remain freely suspended within the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Inventor: Christi Lane
  • Patent number: 9114280
    Abstract: A finger exerciser includes a housing, a tubular shaft, a finger pad and a coil spring. The housing defines an opening. The tubular shaft has a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion is movable through the opening of the housing and relative to the housing. The finger pad is supported on the upper portion of the tubular shaft. The finger pad has first and second curved sides and defines a indent between the curved sides. The indent is configured to receive a finger tip. The first curved side has a height greater than the second curved side. The coil spring is disposed in operative association with the tubular shaft and configured to urge the shaft in an upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: Cognatus Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Robert Silagy, Dennis Waldman
  • Publication number: 20150141206
    Abstract: A glove includes a plurality of finger enclosures. Each of the finger enclosures is for accommodating a respective finger of the wearer's hand. The glove also includes a plurality of resistance elements. Each of the resistance elements is attached to a respective one of the finger enclosures. The resistance elements provide a force for resisting a closing motion of the wearer's hand. The glove further includes a glove body that joins together the finger enclosures. Each of the finger enclosures includes a respective exterior anterior surface for gripping a ball. At least one of the exterior anterior surfaces has a tacky property for aiding in securing the wearer's grip on the ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Darlos D. James, JR.
  • Patent number: 9028371
    Abstract: A hand exerciser device that includes a body having a thumb opening and a plurality of finger openings spaced apart from the thumb opening. Between the finger openings and the thumb opening, there is provided at least one and preferably a corresponding number of projections, which can be independently depressed and manipulated by the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Power-Web International, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven C. Trent
  • Patent number: 9005084
    Abstract: An improved finger exerciser to exercise each finger individually by depressing directly against the resistance of a spring. Embodiments are described wherein the device includes an electronic controller in operative communication with individual finger exercise elements to sense exercise parameters and provide tactile feedback to a user. In embodiments, the disclosed finger exerciser is configured to communicate sensed measurements to an integrated controller and/or a mobile device, such as a distance each finger is pressed, speed, response time, repetition count, and so forth. In embodiments, the exerciser is configured to provide tactile feedback, such as vibration, to a user via the finger pads. The finger exerciser may receive communications from an integrated controller and/or mobile device to activate a tactile stimulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Cognatus Innovations LLC
    Inventors: Robert Silagy, Dennis Waldman
  • Patent number: 8968158
    Abstract: A device (10) for stressing and training the joints and muscles of the hand, wrist and forearm, usable by an individual in order to develop each single muscular group involved in the movement of each finger of the hand, comprising a horizontal support plane or base (11) to which a vertical column (16) is associated and means suitable for allowing the movement of one or more fingers (15) of the hand (14) either at the same time or in an alternate way and according to a plane both horizontal and vertical against a resistance, in which a support element or block (12) for the metacarpus placed onto said plane (11) is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: Tiziano Poli
  • Publication number: 20150045186
    Abstract: Apparatuses with rolling contact handles are described. An apparatus for hand exercising includes an outer frame having a first rail and a second rail spaced apart and an outer handle extending between the first and second rails, the outer handle configured to engage with a thenar of a hand, a roller bar slideably coupled to the first and second rails, the roller bar having a plurality of rollers capable of rotating about an axis of the roller bar, wherein the plurality of rollers are configured to support a plurality of fingers of the hand, and a resistance assembly coupled to the roller bar and the outer frame, the resistance assembly resisting movement of the roller bar towards the outer handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2013
    Publication date: February 12, 2015
    Applicant: Northeasern University
    Inventors: Richard Ranky, Ozer Unluhisarcikli, Maciej Pietrusisnki, Constantinos Mavroidis, Patrick Joseph Murphy
  • Patent number: 8852058
    Abstract: An interactive device includes a housing and a finger ladder held within the housing and having a number of parallel rungs. Each rung includes at least one sensor. A display system, which may include panels attached to either side of the ladder, produce sounds and/or images when the rungs of the ladder are contacted sequentially. Alternately, the display system may be integral with the finger ladder. The sounds and/or images may produce a song or a familiar sequence, such as the alphabet. The sequential activation of the sensors results in the development of both gross and fine motor skills, for example, in children, persons with developmental differences, and persons needing physical or occupational therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Paul J. Hamberis, Jere A. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20140287882
    Abstract: The invention provides an assistive apparatus which enables a wearer to enjoy greater control when opening or closing their hands and fingers. The Therapeutic Glove is a fitted sheath with individual sections for one's thumb and fingers. The base of the glove comprises a reinforced and stretchy elastic wristband and facilitates a comfortable custom fit. The material of the glove includes a breathable cotton, spandexâ„¢ or nylon fabric. Running the length of each digit of the glove and joined together at the dorsal portion of the glove is a series of heavy duty elastic bands configured in strip form and designed to pull the individual fingers and thumb straight. These elongated and reinforced bands are adjustable in length to vary the amount of tension for each finger and thumb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2013
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventor: Michael Barner
  • Patent number: 8814812
    Abstract: An apparatus for passive contraction of at least one finger of a patient with an upper arm unit, a lower arm unit, and at least one connective line. The apparatus is configured such that elbow extension of the patient promotes finger flexion. This is accomplished by taking advantage of the geometry of the arm, where the distance from a point on the patient's humeral area to the patient's fingers is greater when the patient's arm is in extension than when it is in flexion. In one aspect, the upper arm unit is configured to connect to a portion of the patient's arm between the patient's elbow and shoulder and the lower arm unit is configured to connect to a portion of the patient's arm intermediate the patient's hand and elbow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: M.A.R.B. Rehab International, Inc.
    Inventor: Ned B. Armstrong
  • Publication number: 20140135179
    Abstract: A hand exerciser device that includes a body having a thumb opening and a plurality of finger openings spaced apart from the thumb opening. Between the finger openings and the thumb opening, there is provided at least one and preferably a corresponding number of projections, which can be independently depressed and manipulated by the fingers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Publication date: May 15, 2014
    Applicant: Power-Web International, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven C. Trent
  • Patent number: 8678980
    Abstract: A movement device for flexing and/or straightening a joint of a user includes a first anchor element adapted to be positioned adjacent a jointed appendage of a user at a first position. A second anchor element is adapted to be positioned about the jointed appendage at a second position, wherein the jointed appendage is located between the first anchor element and the second anchor element. A spring member is positioned between the first and second anchor elements wherein the spring member is fixedly secured to the second anchor element and moveable through the first anchor element to thereby allow the spring member to bend about a joint of the appendage when said appendage is flexed. The spring member is configured to exert bending forces in opposition to working muscles of the user to straighten or flex the joint of the appendage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher
  • Patent number: 8678984
    Abstract: A hand, wrist, arm and fingers therapy and exercising device which includes a push bar pivotally connected to a base and a wrist support portion. The push bar is moveable between a neutral position, an extended position and a stretching position. The push bar includes finger cams at the end thereof for exercise of the fingers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Gary Poillucci
  • Patent number: 8652076
    Abstract: A hand movement device comprises a glove for positioning about a hand of a user, a first anchor element adapted to be positioned about a base surface of glove, a second anchor element adapted to be positioned at a tip of a finger portion of the glove, an active spring member positioned between the first and second anchor elements, said active spring member being fixedly secured to said first anchor element and moveable through said second anchor element to thereby allow said spring member to bend about a joint of the finger when said finger is flexed, an activating element positioned adjacent the active spring member to heat or cool said active spring member thereby causing the spring member to bend or straighten, and an intermediary support device for housing said spring element and for connecting the first anchor element to said second anchor element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher, Rebecca German, Marlis Gonzalez-Fernandez, Gad Alon, John Staehlin, Ken Silver, Wayne E. Moore
  • Publication number: 20140038785
    Abstract: A hand and finger exerciser having a frame, and a slide configured to move vertically with respect to the frame. In an example embodiment, the frame includes an upper cross-member, a pair of vertical supports extending downward from the upper cross-member, and a base fixed to a lower portion of the vertical supports. The slide includes an upper cross-member having a pair of guides extending downward from the upper cross-member. The guides are configured to slidably engage the vertical supports of the frame to enable the slide to move vertically with respect to the frame. An axle extends between the lower portions of the vertical supports and includes a plurality of finger rollers rotatable about the axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Silagy, Dennis Waldman
  • Patent number: 8622939
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying movement to the joints of a human patient is provided. The apparatus includes an exoskeleton assembly with segments that can be secured to the patient. One or more motor modules are removably coupled to a supporting structure of the exoskeleton assembly, and each motor module includes multiple motor drives. A plurality of actuating members is operatively connected to each motor module. A first end of each actuating member is connected to one of the motor drives and a second end of each actuating member is coupled to a segment of the exoskeleton assembly. Each actuating member can be driven by a respective motor drive to impart movement in multiple degrees of freedom to individual joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: BES Rehab Ltd.
    Inventor: Chau Hoang Thanh Nguyen
  • Publication number: 20130316877
    Abstract: A hand stretching and strengthening device comprised of a unitary form and of resilient, compressible material. The device comprises a plurality of thick finger-stretch wedges extending from a connective base. Each wedge can include a depression on each of its sides to provide comfort and hold. The base provides the foundation for the wedges to extend from and provides resistance to strengthen the hand and forearm. The device holds its position on a user's hand, provides a constant stretching force between the fingers, and provides increased stretching force between fingers as the user closes the hand. The device is small, lightweight, portable, quietly operated and can be worn indefinitely without effort. The device provides an engaging exercise experience by allowing the user to simultaneously stretch and strengthen the fingers, hand, and forearm while executing a wide range of unrestricted motions including motions that mimic playing a musical instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: November 28, 2013
    Inventor: Randy S. Scire
  • Patent number: 8591384
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising a bottom support plate and a mounting bolt affixed thereto and having an externally threaded vertical stem, one or more plates superposed on the bottom support plates, each plate having a central bore through which extends said vertical stem. A hand gripped uppermost plate has a lower surface in mating relation with the top plate, a central internally threaded bore in said lower surface of the hand grip plate for threadedly engaging the end of said externally threaded stem. A dome shaped palm support on the upper surface of the hand grip plate and five finger gripping holes on the supper surface of the hand grip palm support plate around the dome shaped palm support sized for inserting the fingers of the exerciser and to lift and lower the device during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Sammy Black Marji
  • Patent number: 8585560
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for developing hands muscles, formed by a body comprising a partially or fully hollow container (1) fitted with an upper movable cover (2) having one hole or a series of holes provided at one o more points along the periphery thereof for the coupling of transparent flexible tubes (3) which are open at both ends. According to the invention, the lower end (4) of the tube (3) is used for the insertion of a part having a surface that is fully or partially covered, especially in the peripheral area thereof, with longitudinal segments in the forms of pins or needles (6) inclined in the same direction with a variable degree of inclination. The ends (8) os said longitudinal segments are kept in contact with the inner face or wall of the tube (3). The device can be used for therapeutic uses, as a piece of gym equipment or as a toy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Olexander Punchenko
  • Patent number: 8529417
    Abstract: The pushup exercise device first is rugged and sturdy, for even the heaviest user. The vertical columns and bases may be square for best rigidity. The cross supports may be rectangular for the same reason. Finger holes are optionally provided for best grip, but a user can also place hands atop the upper blocks as chosen. Importantly, the device allows a user to elevate upper body off of the floor for less back and other body part strain, and to slightly decrease the resistance provided in a floor performed pushup. The device is highly portable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Ricardo Velasquez
  • Patent number: 8523792
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, a rehabilitative training device for use with a stroke patient includes a first component that is operatively coupled to a first body part (unaffected body part) of the patient and a second component that is operatively coupled to a second body part (affected body part) of the patient. The first component and second component are operatively coupled to one another such that motion of the first component as a result of movement of the first body part by the user causes the second component and second body part to move in a symmetrical motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Mount Sinai School of Medicine
    Inventors: Donald J. Weisz, Preeti Raghavan
  • Patent number: 8475344
    Abstract: Exercise devices that can be worn on the hand or foot utilizing resistance from the air to perform the exercises. The exercise device comprises a fitting member and a resistance member connected to the fitting member. The fitting member is configured to be worn on a limb, such as the hand or foot so that the user does not have to hold anything during the exercise. Additional weights can be added to the exercise device, but the overall apparatus remains small and relatively lightweight so that it may be easily carried in luggage and used on the go.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Kellan Lutz
  • Patent number: 8458817
    Abstract: The glove includes a base portion having a palm side and a back side adapted to cover a hand, the base portion having integral finger segments and also including detachable finger segments to extend from the base portion. The base portion includes base mounts encircling finger openings on an interior side and the detachable finger segments include finger mounts encircling the detachable finger segments on an exterior side. The detachable finger segments extend through finger openings of the base portion and the finger mounts interlock with the base mounts to secure the detachable finger segments to the base portion. The mounts, when in the connected state, are located on an interior side of the base portion to restrict visibility of the mounts and also restrict accidental engagement with foreign objects. The mounts each comprise a halved ring-structure having elastic elements connecting opposing halves for diametric adjustment of the mounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Inventor: Jonathan J. Babb
  • Patent number: 8425438
    Abstract: A motion assist apparatus is provided with an attaching member that has a glove shape with finger portions and a middle hand portion that is attachable to one of hands of a user, a back-side actuator that is freely expanded and contracted, and bridged between a tip of each of the finger portions and the middle hand portion on the back side of the attaching member, and a palm-side actuator that is freely expanded and contracted, and bridged between the tip of each of the finger portions and the middle hand portion on the palm side of the attaching member, and in this structure, the palm-side actuator is provided with a wire unit formed of two wires that are disposed on each of the finger portions on the palm side from the tip of each of the finger portions on the back side to the middle hand portion along the finger portion, passing through two side portions of the finger portion, so that intervals therebetween are made different at respective positions corresponding to joints of the finger portion, and rubber
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Activelink Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromichi Fujimoto, Go Shirogauchi, Keisuke Ueda, Motoshi Hori, Tatsuro Mizutani
  • Patent number: 8394003
    Abstract: A handheld finger manipulating device comprising an elongated plunger assembly that moves longitudinally through a longitudinally aligned bore formed on an outer body. The elongated member is longer than the outer body so that when one end of the plunger body is forced into the outer body, the opposite end of the plunger assembly is extended beyond the opposite end of the outer body. At least one magnet and two magnetic attractive substrates are located between the plunger assembly and the outer body that enables the plunger assembly to move to two preset locations within the outer body. During use, the user holds the device in his or her palm and presses against one end of the plunger assembly to forcibly move it through the outer body. As the plunger assembly moves through the outer body, the magnet and the substrates interact to create a slow and then sudden acceleration of the plunger assembly. In other embodiments, enhanced sound and light producing elements are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: David M. Weinstock
  • Patent number: 8348810
    Abstract: A movement device for flexing and/or straightening a joint of a user includes a first anchor element adapted to be positioned adjacent a jointed appendage of a user at a first position. A second anchor element is adapted to be positioned about the jointed appendage at a second position, wherein the jointed appendage is located between the first anchor element and the second anchor element. A spring member is positioned between the first and second anchor elements wherein the spring member is fixedly secured to the second anchor element and moveable through the first anchor element to thereby allow the spring member to bend about a joint of the appendage when said appendage is flexed. The spring member is configured to exert bending forces in opposition to working muscles of the user to straighten or flex the joint of the appendage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher
  • Patent number: 8343014
    Abstract: A reversible toe manipulation device comprising a separator for inserting between two toes of the human foot, the separator including a duality of shaped openings, each shaped opening adapted for receiving at least one toe and the shaped openings being from 0.25 to 2.0? in depth, at least one of the shaped openings fully attaching around one or more toes so that the separator is attached to the feet and toes, the separator further comprising an adjustable stretch width section that can be altered using a removable stretch width section to the width desired by the wearer, said adjustable stretch width section interposed between the shaped openings, the separator spreading the toes between 0.25 to 2.0? in width, such that when the toes are inserted into the shaped openings the toes are contactless.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Kurt Charles Findeisen
  • Patent number: 8343015
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise device that allows the user to strengthen the muscles that close the hand, against the resistance of a flexion member, as well as to strengthen the muscles that open the hand and spread the digits, against resistance of an extension member, all through full natural planes of motion, without lulls of resistance during the exercise. The device is always taut, due to its unique design, either resisting finger and thumb flexion and adduction or finger and thumb extension and abduction. The result of consistent use is maximum strength, balance and blood flow to the hand, wrist, forearm and elbow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Zachary
  • Patent number: 8255079
    Abstract: A grasp assist device includes a glove portion having phalange rings, contact sensors for measuring a grasping force applied by an operator wearing the glove portion, and a tendon drive system (TDS). The device has flexible tendons connected to the phalange rings for moving the rings in response to feedback signals from the sensors. The TDS is connected to each of the tendons, and applies an augmenting tensile force thereto via a microcontroller adapted for determining the augmenting tensile force as a function of the grasping force. A method of augmenting a grasping force of an operator includes measuring the grasping force using the sensors, encoding the grasping force as the feedback signals, and calculating the augmenting tensile force as a function of the feedback signals using the microcontroller. The method includes energizing at least one actuator of a tendon drive system (TDS) to thereby apply the augmenting tensile force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignees: GM Global Technology Operations LLC, The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Douglas Martin Linn, Chris A. Ihrke, Myron A. Diftler
  • Publication number: 20120065026
    Abstract: A movement device for flexing and/or straightening a joint of a user includes a first anchor element adapted to be positioned adjacent a jointed appendage of a user at a first position. A second anchor element is adapted to be positioned about the jointed appendage at a second position, wherein the jointed appendage is located between the first anchor element and the second anchor element. A spring member is positioned between the first and second anchor elements wherein the spring member is fixedly secured to the second anchor element and moveable through the first anchor element to thereby allow the spring member to bend about a joint of the appendage when said appendage is flexed. The spring member is configured to exert bending forces in opposition to working muscles of the user to straighten or flex the joint of the appendage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher
  • Patent number: 8118719
    Abstract: An exercise routine includes holding an elastic band in clenched fists and rotating the fists against the elastic restraining force of the elastic band while obtaining leverage through the contact of both hands. In one approach the right arm is rotated in the clockwise direction while in another approach the right arm is rotated in the counter-clockwise direction. The left arm rotates in the opposite sense to that of the right arm. By rotating the fists, wrists, and lower arms against elastic force, the biceps and triceps muscles are worked, and by repeating the exercise over a controlled program of repetitions and sets with increasing resistance, the arm muscles can be strengthened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph Michael Stassi
  • Patent number: 8029414
    Abstract: A finger glove for use in gripping movements with one or more fingers of a human hand enclosed in the glove. The glove includes glove fingers and a palm. At least one glove finger is adapted to include on each side an artificial tendon that extends along an inside of the glove. A yoke is fitted in a tip of the at least one glove finger and intended to surround a tip of an enclosed finger. At each side of the glove finger artificial tendons are connected to the yoke. A system including the finger glove having a force detecting sensor is situated on the inside of the at least one glove finger and is adapted to detect a force between a finger enclosed in the glove finger and a contact surface applied to the finger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Bioservo Technologies AB
    Inventors: Johan Ingvast, Hans Von Holst, Jan Wikander
  • Patent number: 7967732
    Abstract: A finger and hand exerciser includes a housing defining four chambers arranged side-by-side in parallel with one another. Each chamber receives a tension adjustment member, a plunger that is reciprocatingly slidable in the chamber, and a helically wound compression spring extending between the plunger and the tension adjustment member. Each tension adjustment member includes a knurled wheel which the user of the finger and hand exerciser may turn to decrease or increase the force the spring exerts on the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: D'Addario & Company, Inc.
    Inventors: James D'Addario, Alexandru Maxim
  • Patent number: 7914476
    Abstract: A pediatric digital wrap comprising a flexible T-shaped base member having a first end adapted to fold over and substantially cover a finger tip of a patient's injured digit. A removable insert comprising a layer of pressure sensitive adhesive with a non-adhesive center pad provides protection and padding for the injured digit. The removable insert is secured to the first side of the base member so that the insert is placed directly over the wound of the patient's digit when the first end is folded over the patient's finger tip. A finger strap wraps around the periphery of the patient's injured digit below the patient's finger tip and serves to secure the first end of the base member over the finger tip of the injured digit. A wrist strap is disposed perpendicular to the first end of the base member and adapted to wrap around a patient's wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: Darlene Ball, Yvonne Morris
  • Publication number: 20110053736
    Abstract: A hand exercise device 100 and method for exercising human hands 102 and digits 104 comprising a plurality of separate digit sleeves 110 wherein the diameter and length are such that the separate digit sleeves 110 slide over finger and thumb digits 105, 106 of a human hand 102; a magnetic element 120 is attached with the separate digit sleeve 110 at or near a distal end 116 of the separate digit sleeve 110, wherein the magnetic element 120 will facilitate a desired exercise in multidirectional movements when the magnetic element 120 is approximated near another magnetic 129 or ferrous metal surface 150. The hand exercise device may include a flat or wavy ferrous material 150, 151, 152 or a randomly disposed magnetic field 161 to aid in exercising the hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventor: David Gordon Bearden
  • Patent number: 7892194
    Abstract: A dynamic hand splint includes as elements thereof: a forearm support section and a hand support section that are configured to be releasably attached to a forearm; and one or more finger tensioners that are releasably attached to the hand support section and that are configured to be releasably attached to a respective finger such that, when the finger is flexed from an extended position toward a flexed position, the finger is urged by the finger tensioner toward an extended position. A method includes: attaching a forearm support section and a hand support section to a forearm; attaching finger tensioners to the hand support section; and attaching each of the finger tensioners to a respective finger such that, when the finger is flexed from an extended position toward a flexed position, the finger is urged by the finger tensioner toward an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Saebo, Inc.
    Inventors: John Fletcher Farrell, Henry B. Hoffman