Abstract: Provided is a walking training apparatus including: a walking-assist robot which is worn on a lower half of a body of a walking trainee; a treadmill which has a tread plate moving at a predefined speed which the walking trainee walks on; a load pulling unit which holds a body of the walking trainee upward; and a controller which controls driving of the walking-assist robot, the treadmill, and the load pulling unit, wherein the load pulling unit includes: a harness which is worn on the body of the walking trainee; a main rope which is connected to the harness; a driving motor which operates to pull the main rope so as to pull the harness upward; and a counter-load weight plate unit which applies a counter-load to the walking trainee.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater exercise and physical therapy device for joint release and spinal adjustment wherein a tube is worn on a user's upper body and weights are worn on the user's feet in a water tank having a predetermined depth wherein his feet are spaced apart from the bottom surface thereof to carry out underwater exercise and physical therapy by using the buoyant force of the tube and the gravity of the weights, thereby enabling his joints to be released, making his muscles reformed, and further adjusting and preventing his spinal diseases.

Abstract: Swim training apparatus comprising, a pair of leg bands, each having posterior sides and adapted to be secured around the thigh portion of a swimmer's legs, a waist band having a posterior side and adapted to be secured around the waist of a swimmer, a lever arm attached to waist band and having distal ends and a center and a pair of connecting straps each having distal and proximate ends where the proximate ends are attached to the respective distal ends of the lever arm and the distal ends of the straps are attached to the respective posterior sides of the leg bands.

Abstract: The present invention provides an overhead support apparatus for assisting a user while performing rehabilitation physical activities and includes a track assembly supported by the ceiling and a suspension device that depends from the track assembly and is attached to the user so that the apparatus acts to prevent the user from falling down during physical activities. The suspension assembly includes a trolley adapted to traverse the track assembly, a locking snap assembly attached to the trolley and associated with a swivel, and an adjustable lanyard that is connected to the swivel at one end and to a body harness at its opposite end, which body harness has straps for encircling the torso and legs of a user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the reeducation of motory deficiencies, comprising means for reeducation, characterized in that said device also comprises: means for maintaining the user; means for lightening the body weight of the user (27, 27?), exerting vertical traction, wherein the suspension point of said lightening means on the means for maintaining the user are located at the level of the center of gravity of the user, i.e. therebelow; and means for preventing the user from falling (21, 21?). The invention can be used to rededucate people how to walk.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus in this disclosure includes a doorway mountable runner restraint device. The device has a generally rigid, preferably padded, belly pad that is placed against and in front of a user's pelvis and abdominal area. A pair of cords are attached to the belly pad, each having an opposite end attached to an elastic member. Each of the elastic members is, in turn, attached to an anchor which is removably fastened to a stationary object such as a closed door, a doorway frame, or sandwiched between a closed door and the doorway frame. A user fastens the apparatus in place in a doorway, faces away from the doorway, and places the belly pad against his or her torso directly over the pelvis area, and then runs in a direction away from the doorway. The elastic members resist and restrain the user from substantial movement away from the doorway but stretch to allow forward running movement during each step.

Abstract: A device for adjusting the prestress of an elastic means around a predetermined tension or position can especially be used to adjust the height of and the relief force acting on a weight. A mechanic adjustment unit is connected in parallel to the elastic means to preadjust the value of the predetermined tension comprising a movable portion engaging the connection portion between elastic means and adjustment unit and a force exerting element being attached at said movable portion. The mechanic adjustment unit is in an unstable equilibrium position at said predetermined tension or position, the movement of the movable portion being such that the force exerting element adds an adjustment or compensation force upon deviation of the predetermined tension or position of the elastic means.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a support frame, a resilient member, a seat, and a retainer. The resilient member has a first end portion configured to be coupled to the support frame and a second end portion, opposite from the first end portion. The seat is configured to be coupled to the second end portion such that the seat is suspended from the support frame by the resilient member. At least one of the first end portion and the second end portion includes multiple sleeves, each defining an opening therein. A portion of the retainer is configured to be disposed within a first one of the sleeves and coupled to at least one of the seat and the support frame such that a position of the seat relative to the support frame is adjustable by disposing the portion of the retainer within a second one of the sleeves.

Abstract: The present invention comprises an apparatus and method for gravity-balanced apparatuses for training humans for space exploration and other applications. The embodiment of the simulation apparatus is less expensive to build and safe to operate and adaptable to numerous applications, including but not limited to theme parks, museums, training facilities, educational/research labs, and others, for people to experience walking and other perambulations in lower or zero gravity environments. The present invention is statically-balanced and comprises a spring apparatus that is easily adjusted. An embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus and method for simulating walking in a zero-gravity or reduced-gravity environment.

Abstract: Child entertainment apparatus and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An example child entertainment apparatus includes a frame and a support suspended for swinging movement relative to the frame. The support is elastically elongatable. A child seat is carried by the support and thus is able to swing and bounce relative to the frame. A drive arm extends between the frame and the seat and includes a first end journalled for rotation relative to one of the frame or the seat and a second end slidably coupled to the other of the frame or the seat.

Abstract: The present invention provides an overhead support apparatus for assisting a user while performing rehabilitation physical activities and includes a track assembly supported by the ceiling and a suspension device that depends from the track assembly and is attached to the user so that the apparatus acts to prevent the user from falling down during physical activities. The suspension assembly includes a trolley adapted to traverse the track assembly, a locking snap assembly attached to the trolley and associated with a swivel, and an adjustable lanyard that is connected to the swivel at one end and to a body harness at its opposite end, which body harness has straps for encircling the torso and legs of a user.

Abstract: The present invention provides an overhead support apparatus for assisting a user while performing rehabilitation physical activities and includes a track assembly supported by the ceiling and a suspension device that depends from the track assembly and is attached to the user so that the apparatus acts to prevent the user from falling down during physical activities. The suspension assembly includes a trolley adapted to traverse the track assembly, a locking snap assembly attached to the trolley and associated with a swivel, and an adjustable lanyard that is connected to the swivel at one end and to a body harness at its opposite end, which body harness has straps for encircling the torso and legs of a user.

Abstract: A powered mobile lifting, gait training and omnidirectional rolling apparatus is for personal use by persons with complete loss of motor function in lower limbs for assisted walking in an upright position in desired direction of indoor and outdoor. All operations including bringing the apparatus to a user, ingress, walking around and egress are performed by users without assistance of other persons. The apparatus lifts the user from a floor, wheelchair or elevated surface, its overall size enables passing through narrow passageways, and omnidirectional wheels provide top maneuverability. Rotation of powered omnidirectional wheels is coordinated with motion of gait stimulation devices that drive user's feet, resulting in simulated walk.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus which supports a user who is building back and leg muscles. This invention includes at least a track, a truck designed to run along the track and a sling for suspending a user from the truck. The track is of a design adapted to be secured to a ceiling joist. The truck of a size which is capable of supporting the weight of a user and of withstanding any forces which a user may impose upon the truck.

Abstract: A body-weight support system that allows individuals with severe gait impairments to practice over-ground walking in a safe, controlled manner is disclosed. The system includes a body-weight support system that rides along a driven trolley and can be controlled in response to the movement of the subject using the system.

Abstract: An assembly for stabilizing an individual while exercising or performing various sports or physical activities in a seated position, such as a wheelchair or other support structure. A harness assembly comprises one or more harness structures each removably secured to a predetermined part of the individual's body in a manner which safely stabilizes the individual while the individual is exercising or performing sporting or other physical activities. A restraint assembly comprises a plurality of restraining members interconnected to each of the plurality of the harness structures being used, and to an anchor assembly disposed in underlying supporting relation to the individual and the support structure. The restraint assembly is cooperatively structured with the anchor assembly to maintain any of the harness structures being utilized and the corresponding body portion of the individual in a stable, operative position best suited to effectively and safely perform the intended exercise.

Abstract: A device for variably unweighting or unloading and performing resistance exercises and stretches while performing cardiovascular exercises on a cardiovascular exercise machine or other exercise device, including a plurality of exercise elements at different locations above the machine or device, the exercise elements being graspable individually or in a selected number and resiliently extended in a variety of directions for reducing forces applied against movable elements of the exercise machine or device and for performing a variety of resistance exercises and stretches.

Abstract: A support harness and an unweighting assembly for at least partially unweighting a patient during rehabilitative exercises. The unweighting assembly including a support harness configured to generally extend around at least a portion of the patient, a support structure for supporting the support harness, and at least three connectors. Each of the connectors includes a first end coupled to the support structure and a second end coupled to the support harness at one of at least three connection points so that the patient is able to be supported in a crawling position.

Abstract: In accordance with the principles of the present invention, a pendulous exercise device is provided that comprises first and second swing arms pivotally coupled to a frame. The first and second swing arms extend from the frame at an angle from vertical. First and second footpads are provided pivotally coupled to the first and second swing arms, respectively. Each footpad defines a footpath comprising a forward/rearward component, an upward/downward component and an inward/outward component.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a support frame upon which is mounted a curvilinear track, the curvilinear track substantially conforming to a runner's footpath while striding. A first foot engaging support is secured to the curvilinear track for movement thereabout while exercising in accordance with the present invention. A resistance assembly is secured to the foot engaging support for applying resistance as a user moves the foot engaging support about the curvilinear track. A slide including a curvilinear carriage rides upon the curvilinear track and a first user engaging support is coupled to the slide for movement about the curvilinear track. A linear carriage rides upon a linear carriage rail supported by the support frame and a resistance assembly is coupled to the linear carriage. A slide bar links the curvilinear carriage of the slide to the linear carriage for the application of resistance as the user engaging support is moved about the curvilinear track.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a support frame, a resilient member, a seat, and a retainer. The resilient member has a first end portion configured to be coupled to the support frame and a second end portion, opposite from the first end portion. The seat is configured to be coupled to the second end portion such that the seat is suspended from the support frame by the resilient member. At least one of the first end portion and the second end portion includes multiple sleeves, each defining an opening therein. A portion of the retainer is configured to be disposed within a first one of the sleeves and coupled to at least one of the seat and the support frame such that a position of the seat relative to the support frame is adjustable by disposing the portion of the retainer within a second one of the sleeves.

Abstract: A powered mobile lifting, gait training and omnidirectional rolling apparatus is for personal use by persons with lower body disabilities for assisted walking in upright position in desired direction indoor or outdoor. All operations including bringing the apparatus to a user, ingress, walking around and egress are performed by users without assistance of other persons. The apparatus lifts a user from a floor, wheelchair or elevated surface, its overall size enables motion through narrow doorways or other passageways, and omnidirectional wheels provide top maneuverability. Rotation of powered omnidirectional wheels is coordinated with motion of gait simulation devices which drive user's feet, resulting in simulated natural walking pattern.

Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention are directed to a stationary exercise apparatus for providing exercise functionality for small children that includes first and second upper frame members and first and second base frame members that are coupled to first and second stationary hubs, an activity table, a seat, and one or more resilient members that suspend the activity table and seat between the upper frame members. The upper frame members extend upwardly and in a radially outward direction from the stationary hubs, and the base frame members extend downwardly and in a radially outward direction from the stationary hubs to engage a support surface. The one or more resilient members have a resiliency that allows a child within the apparatus to bounce vertically relative to the support surface in response to the child pushing its legs against the support surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a harness safety system that can be used while riding, for example, a skateboard, a bike, rollerblades, etc. through on a flat base. Specifically, the invention comprises a flat base having a free-running cord and harness hanging therefrom that allows the rider to proceed on a flat base optionally comprising a start deck, obstacles, jumps or combinations thereof while retaining tension on the rider throughout the process. and arresting the rider's fall, thus preventing the rider from serious injury.

Abstract: A passive gravity balancing assist device for human sit-to-stand motion is provided. The design combines the use of auxiliary parallelograms with springs to produce an orthotic device wherein the total potential energy of the system is constant during standing and sitting motion.

Abstract: A device for variably unweighting or unloading and performing resistance exercises and stretches while performing cardiovascular exercises on a cardiovascular exercise machine or other exercise device, including a plurality of exercise elements at different locations above the machine or device, the exercise elements being graspable individually or in a selected number and resiliently extended in a variety of directions for reducing forces applied against movable elements of the exercise machine or device and for performing a variety of resistance exercises and stretches.

Abstract: Passive gravity balancing orthosis apparatus for assisting and training patients suffering from muscle weakness by relieving the patients afflicted member of its weight using a plurality of articulated supporting members. Relief is obtained by identifying and fixing the center of mass of the combined articulated equipment members and supported weight of the patient's member in space using a defined parallelogram mechanism and once so identified making the total potential energy for any configuration of the articulated members of the system constant. At least one zero free length spring is used to connect the center of mass to a support outside the articulated members. Additional springs connect the center of mass to the articulated members.

Abstract: A device for variably unweighting or unloading and performing resistance exercises and stretches while performing cardiovascular exercises on a cardiovascular exercise machine or other exercise device, including a plurality of exercise elements at different locations above the machine or device, the exercise elements being graspable individually or in a selected number and resiliently extended in a variety of directions for reducing forces applied against movable elements of the exercise machine or device and for performing a variety of resistance exercises and stretches.

Abstract: A suspension system for walk training in physical therapy is disclosed to include a framework formed of a top rail and two wheeled posts supporting the top rail, a suspension mechanism, which has a suspension rod suspending from the top rail by a suspension rope for securing a harness for a patient, a spring force control unit fixedly mounted in the framework for stretching the suspension rope and adjusting the stretch force to the suspension rope, an elevation adjustment unit fixedly mounted in the framework for adjusting the elevation of the suspension rod, and a suspension force measurement unit for measuring the pull force of the suspension rope.

Abstract: An ambulatory suspension system for gait rehabilitation has a parallel pair of rails bordering the sides of a training area and a bridge extending between and movable along the rails. A trolley is movable along the bridge and includes a motor driven hoist with a cable extending thereabout and depending from the trolley. The hoist is operable to vary the length of the cable depending from the trolley, and a harness is suspended by the cable. Motors move the bridge along the rails and the trolley along the bridge as the sensors sense the direction of movement of the patient in X and Y directions. The falling motion of a patient supported in the harness is sensed and will immediately disable the system. A computer control receives signals from the sensors and operates the motors so that the patient is held in an upright position.

Abstract: A body-weight support system that allows individuals with severe gait impairments to practice over-ground walking in a safe, controlled manner is disclosed. The system includes a body-weight support system that rides along a driven trolley and can be controlled in response to the movement of the subject using the system.

Abstract: A body weight support system that monitors and controls the level of support force within a stepcycle to result in normative center of mass movement and ground reaction forces. The system comprises a harness connected to a lift line which in turn is connected to a means for advancing and retracting the lift line. A control system is configured to monitor load on the cable and to regulate lift line advancement and retraction in response to load information. The support system can be combined with a treadmill for locomotor training of a subject.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wheeled ambulation, exercise, and lifting apparatus for lifting patients with compromised strength in the legs and for allowing such patients to be mobile with access to a variety of facilities.

Abstract: The invention relates to a harness safety system that can be used while riding, for example, a skateboard, a bike, rollerblades, etc. through a half pipe. Specifically, the invention comprises a track spanning the half-pipe having a free-running cord and harness hanging therefrom that allows the rider to proceed through the flats and up the transitions of a half pipe while retaining tension on the rider throughout the process and arresting the rider's fall, thus preventing the rider from serious injury.

Abstract: A full body Gait Training Harness for children with disability may be modified for adult use to assist a trainer to teach functions such as walking with a proper gait and crawling. Shoulder straps attached to a torso-encircling belt cross at the trainee's back to eliminate slippage, allowing use on those who have no arms. Leg loops secure the harness to the thighs, rather than through the crotch, for a more secure and comfortable fit. Leg stabilization straps between the leg loops and the shoulders provide tension to encourage development of a proper gait and to prevent crossing of the trainee's legs. Shoulder handles allow a trainer to support a trainee from above without stooping, while a back handle may be used to lift a trainee or support them in a crawling position. Walking extension straps attached to the shoulders allow trainee independence while the trainer retains control.

Abstract: An apparatus for shifting the body weight of a runner from a runner's legs to a wheeled frame for enhancing the runner's performance and minimizing leg strain comprises a loop of elastic rod-shaped material stretchable during standing and during running movement. A base bend of the elastic is secured to a pelvic harness at the top of the back of each leg, and another bend of the elastic is secured to the wheeled frame. A third bend is supported on pulleys mounted on a height adjustable tee on the wheeled frame. This brings about a significant shift of the runner's weight from the runner's legs to the wheeled frame.

Abstract: An assembly for stabilizing an individual while exercising in a seated position, such as, but not limited to, a wheelchair. A harness assembly comprises a plurality of harness structures each intended to be removably secured to a different part of the individual's body in a manner which stabilizes that body portion while performing a particular exercise. A restraint assembly comprises a plurality of restraint members interconnected to each of the plurality of the harness structures being used and to an anchor assembly, disposed in underlying, supporting relation to the individual and the support structure. The restraint assembly is cooperatively structured with the anchor assembly to maintain any of the harness structures being utilized and the corresponding body portion in a stable, operative position best suited to effectively perform the intended exercise.

Abstract: A repetitive motion therapy apparatus has a frame structure. An orthotic is adapted for securing to a part of a body. A pneumatic muscle is coupled between the frame structure and the orthotic for moving the orthotic. A control mechanism controls the pneumatic muscle. The pneumatic muscle contracts to impart movement to the orthotic. A winding spool and retractable cord is attached to the pneumatic muscle. The pneumatic muscle is operated by an electric mechanism, hydraulic mechanism, or spring mechanism to impart movement to the orthotic. The control mechanism has a variable airflow controller to control the movement of the orthotic. A feedback sensor is disposed on the body for providing data to the control mechanism. A treadmill imparts motion to the part of the body.

Abstract: The purpose of the safety and assistance strap is to securely suspend and also to provide quick height adjustment of dumbbells, barbells and exercise equipment to a specific height appropriate for the user prior to usage, beginning an exercise, and throughout the exercise acting as a safety device. As important is the finish and release of the equipment after the exercise whereby the safety assistance strap or SAS will prevent over extending. It is adjustable in heights in three large increments as well as numerous smaller increments. The present invention allows the user to quickly adjust the height, with one hand in large or small increments, without the need to remove the weight. It has a top end, which loops around horizontal supports and secures itself to a clasp upon the strap. The SAS has additional connection members at equal distances for quick height adjustment and a lower clasp at the end for the suspended exercise equipment.

Abstract: Apparatus for training a body part, such as for example the feet or head, of a person is shown. The apparatus structure is configured to receive and support the body part. The structure includes a body part-supporting member defining a movement path of a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during training. At least one sensor is positioned along the movement path representing a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during trained. The sensor is physically contacted by and is actuated by the body part. A signal control circuit is responsive to actuation of the sensor for generating a feedback signal which is communicated to such person to verify that such person's body part has traversed the selected distance. A method for training a body part of a person including a head, leg or arm is also shown.

Abstract: A system for people with limited mobility or with elevated risk of falling. Embodiments of the invention include internal walls that do not extend to the ceiling, a track system, a joist which is able to move on the track system, a carriage which is able to move on the joist and a harness tethered to the carriage. Other embodiments of the invention include a track system which is able to move on the track system, a carriage able to move on the joist and a harness, which is configured for an ambulatory user, tethered to the carriage. Some embodiments include a system that can automatically trigger an alert notification if the tension on the tether remains high beyond a particular time. In some embodiments, the joist is an open web joist.

Abstract: A lightweight, foldable device for the partial weight bearing during walking and gait training is provided. The lightweight, partial weight bearing suspension walker is made from two frames that are pivotally attached and can be folded at the pivot point for storage or transport. The apparatus can be adjusted to fit over wide treadmills or wheelchairs and through narrow doors. The apparatus includes two fail-safe lift and support devices to insure patient safety in case of unintentional release by the operator.

Abstract: An ambulatory patient support mechanism, for use in hospitals and the like for assisting patients in walking along hallways, corridors, and the like. The mechanism includes a specially developed U-shaped support frame, configured to support a person in an upright position while walking. A telescoping column is vertically adjustable relative to the floor. A moveable carriage connected to the telescoping column provides horizontal movement along a suspended overhead track vertically above a given path of a hallway, corridor, or the like. A rotation mechanism allows the U-shaped frame to rotate 180° allowing patients to reverse their direction of travel along the given path. The U-shaped frame is adjustable to accommodate a wide range of body sizes. A pair of adjustable handgrips at the end of each U-frame member stabilizes the patient within the interior of the U-shaped frame.

Abstract: A Multi-Function Swing Apparatus for Total Body Exercise, Stretching, Yoga, Lumbo-Pelvic Traction, Gymnastics, Inversion Therapy, Therapeutic Rehab, Spinal Manipulation, Partner Play and Sky-chair consisting of a nylon fabric swing device having multiple flexible arm member attachments with omni-directional range of motion, a removable foam cushion insert, a metal trapeze pull-up bar, dual extension springs, and two height adjuster straps made of webbing with multiple loops, all of which is suspended from a swivel hook unit attached to a portable structural support stand made of metal tubing.

Abstract: A swimming exerciser has a vertical support, an arm, a roller assembly, a resilient element, a belt, a resilient tether and a rope. The vertical support is mounted beside a swimming pool and has a pulley. The arm is hollow and is connect to and protrudes from the vertical support and has a distal end. The roller assembly is mounted moveably inside the arm. The resilient element is mounted inside the arm between the roller assembly the distal end of the arm. The belt is worn around a person's waist. The resilient tether is attached to the roller assembly and the belt and compensates for a swimmer's lack of movement through the water to hold the swimmer at a constant depth. The rope is connected to the roller assembly, reeved through the pulley and connected to the belt to hold a swimmer in a fixed position when swimming.

Abstract: Physical therapy walking exercise apparatus is disclosed and includes a gear motor driven V belt sheave a V belt on the V belt sheave and the V belt extending to fit on a driven fly wheel, beams concentrically attached to the axle leg of the driven fly wheel and foot placement shoes mounted on the beams and knee stabilizer attachment pads attached to rods reciprocating on actuation of the apparatus assembly and electrical stimulation leads extending to electrodes for attachment to thighs of the patient.

Abstract: Apparatus for training a body part, such as for example the feet or head, of a person is shown. The apparatus structure is configured to receive and support the body part. The structure includes a body part-supporting member defining a movement path of a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during training. At least one sensor is positioned along the movement path representing a selected distance to be traversed by the body part during trained. The sensor is physically contacted by and is actuated by the body part. A signal control circuit is responsive to actuation of the sensor for generating a feedback signal which is communicated to such person to verify that such person's body part has traversed the selected distance. A method for training a body part of a person including a head, leg or arm is also shown.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a belt unit that has an element that encircles a swimmer's hips near the pelvis. The belt unit includes restraining straps that are attached to the element encircling the swimmer's hips by means of hook-and-loop material so the straps can be located in the most effective position on the swimmer. The device further includes an anchor that can be attached to a stationary device associated with the swimming pool and has rotatable rings that are attached to the restraining straps.

Abstract: A balance training apparatus for supporting an individual with a limited liability to maintain his or her on balance has a pair of vertical support rods connected to a base by joints which include lower elastic parts tending to bias the user into an upright position. The two support rods are connected by a brace for supporting the pelvis of the user and knee supports are provided between the two support rods for yieldably pressing the knees of the user.

Abstract: A torso support portion and a pair of thigh support portions are each formed of an outer layer of hard relatively stiff molded plastic material of limited flexibility and an inner layer of relatively soft cushioning material for distributing the weight of a patient over a large area. The torso support portion may comprise a rear panel adjustable secured between two body panels. Tightening straps serve to tighten the torso support portion about a patient with the parts of the torso support portion adjacent the front opposite free sides of the two body panels overlapping one another in operative position. A pair of tightening straps serve to tighten each of the thigh support portions about the thighs of a patient with the free sides of each thigh support portion spaced a substantial distance from one another in operative position. Four adjustable suspension straps are provided for suspending the torso support portion and provide a quick-release feature.