Arm Or Component (e.g., Elbow, Wrist, Hand, Finger, Etc.) And Actuator Or Connector Therefor Patents (Class 623/57)
  • Patent number: 11944555
    Abstract: A gripping device having a chassis, at least one first finger element pivotally mounted on the chassis, at least one drive, and a force transmission element coupling the drive to the first finger element. The force transmission element pivots the first finger element relative to the chassis about two differently oriented pivot axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: OTTO BOCK HEALTHCARE PRODUCTS GMBH
    Inventor: Florian Eder
  • Patent number: 11779476
    Abstract: A system for powering a prosthetic arm is disclosed. The system includes at least one internal battery located in the prosthetic arm, at least one external battery connected to the prosthetic arm, and a master controller configured to connect either the at least one internal battery or the at least one external battery to a power bus to power the prosthetic arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Christopher O. Evans, Keith D. Violette
  • Patent number: 11678842
    Abstract: A method and an osseointegrated prosthesis system having an osseointegrated prosthesis member are provided having a monitoring system operably coupled to the osseointegrated prosthesis member configured to quantitatively assess the osseointegration of the osseointegrated prosthesis member, a wave-generating element coupled to the osseointegrated prosthesis member and configured to output guided waves along the osseointegrated prosthesis member interrogating an interface between bone and the osseointegrated prosthesis member, and a sensing system configured to sense a condition of the interface between bone and the prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2023
    Assignee: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
    Inventors: Jerome P. Lynch, Wentao Wang
  • Patent number: 11622903
    Abstract: An upper torso orthotic device having multiple adjustment mechanisms configured to enable adaptation to a wide variety of body shapes, sizes and augmentation needs. The upper torso orthotic device including a body worn support frame member configured to dynamically distribute a weight of the upper torso orthotic device across the chest, shoulder and back of a user, and a limb augmentation member configured to augment a native strength of an arm of the user by overcoming the effects of gravity, the limb augmentation member including an adjustable shoulder assembly including at least one of a leveling mechanism, a clavicle retraction/protraction angle adjustment mechanism, a shoulder abduction angle adjustment mechanism, and a shoulder width adjustment mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: Abilitech Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett Neubauer, Eli Krumholz, Mark Oreschnick, Shawna Persaud, Rob Wudlick, Tom Kramer, Mark Manzella
  • Patent number: 11439519
    Abstract: An under-driven prosthetic hand with a self-adaptive grasping function is provided, which belongs to the field of medical equipment. The prosthetic hand simultaneously controls four fingers to implement bending and stretching movements by a first motor through structural designs of a prosthetic hand body, a finger transmission module, an inter-finger transmission module, and a thumb driving module, and limits the transmission torque between the motor and screws using a damping shaft and in cooperation with the telescopic characteristic of a telescopic component. On the one hand, mechanical damage to the prosthetic hand structure due to excessive torque outputted by the motor can be prevented. On the other hand, the self-adaptive grasping function of the prosthetic hand can be implemented. The disclosure can also effectively solve issues such as excessive volume or mass of the prosthetic hand, complicated control system, and low operation precision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: HUAZHONG UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventors: Cai-Hua Xiong, Chuang Liu, Bai-Yang Sun, Zhi-Liang Xie, Tao Duan
  • Patent number: 11246720
    Abstract: An adjustable counterbalance mechanism for a prosthetic elbow includes a torsional spring disposed in a housing structure coaxially to an axis of rotation of a forearm portion and a cord and pulley arrangement which includes a first pulley, a second pulley and a link member attached to a fixed member structure. The first pulley is attached to a second portion of the spring and connected to the second pulley by a first cord. The second pulley is pivotally attached to the housing structure and connected to the link member by a second cord. The cord and pulley arrangement is configured to transfer a moment of force due to spring force to the forearm portion to counteract the torque of a forearm due to gravity as the angle of the forearm portion changes relative to the upper arm portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2022
    Assignee: Hugh Steeper Limited
    Inventors: Ryan Wahl, Aaron Taszreak
  • Patent number: 11229533
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention generally relate to prosthetic partial finger designs that can mimic the last two joints of the finger. Some embodiments include a proximal phalange, a distal phalange coupled to the proximal phalange, and a knuckle track (e.g., formed in an arc). The knuckle track can be moveably coupled to the proximal phalange an may include multiple teeth formed on which the proximal phalange slides along. A ratcheting mechanism can contact the multiple teeth to allow sliding in only a first direction while the ratcheting mechanism is engaged. Some embodiments include a release mechanism (e.g., a button) configured to disengage the ratcheting mechanism from the multiple teeth to allow the distal phalange to slide in a second direction. In some embodiments, the device may include a spring-back capability that automatically extends the finger after reaching full finger flexion, enabling one-handed use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2022
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of Colorado
    Inventors: Jacob Segil, Stephen Huddle, Levin Sliker, Richard Weir
  • Patent number: 11077556
    Abstract: A method of controlling a mobility device and related device including at least one drive component that drives at least one joint component is described. The control method may include executing a control application with an electronic controller to perform: receiving sensor information from sensors corresponding to a state and/or mode of the mobility device; analyzing the sensor information and determining a control mode of operation based on the sensor information; generating a control signal to output an alert via electronic indicators corresponding to the determined control mode; and controlling at least one drive component of the mobility device to selectively configure and modulate at least one joint component in accordance with the determined control mode of operation. Different alerts may be outputted by the electronic indicators depending on the nature or severity of the alert condition, accompanied by respective device control operations in accordance with the alert condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Skyler Ashton Dalley, Ryan Farris, Steven Etheridge, Scott Morrison, Spencer Murray
  • Patent number: 10852835
    Abstract: Systems and methods for manual gesture recognition to control prosthetic devices. Low encumbrance systems utilizing glove-based recognition to control prosthetic devices. Prosthetic control systems and methods are also provided utilizing elements for application on the user's fingernails.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: Oguz Yetkin, Joseph D. Sanford, Dan O. Popa, Lena C. Wallace, Fahad Mirza, Roopak Karulkar, Sumit Kumar Das, Joshua R. Baptist, J. Paul Carpenter
  • Patent number: 10610438
    Abstract: Injury-specific resistive exoskeleton devices and iris-based mechanisms utilized therein. The devices assist those currently in rehabilitation or those who have lost partial or all motion to specific muscles. The device can be used for directly driving a limb or providing resistance to partially impaired muscles. For example, the device can provide a resistive force during contraction of an affected/injured muscle and release the resistive force during contraction of an unaffected/healthy muscle. The iris-based joint mechanism generally includes a hub, an iris mechanism, and a plurality of teeth disposed therebetween. When the teeth are engaged with the hub, the mechanism is locked and the servo outputs a rotational force that affects rotation of the user's limb. When the teeth are disengaged with the hub, the mechanism is unlocked and the user has full range of motion of the underlying hinge joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: University of South Florida
    Inventors: Sergei Thomas Dines, Kamal Husam Habboub, Marco Alejandro Soto
  • Patent number: 10327920
    Abstract: The disclosure provides apparatus and methods of use pertaining to a bidirectional biomechanical prosthetic finger assembly. One embodiment includes a metacarpophalangeal (MCP) pivot configured for swivelable attachment to a hand of a user, a distal coupler, and an articulation assembly rotatively coupled therebetween. A multiple-finger ring configured to receive a user's residual finger and at least one adjacent finger is disposed upon the articulation assembly, and may be adjusted to a target location based on a length of the residual finger. The articulation assembly is configured to utilize vertical movements of the residual and/or adjacent finger(s) within the multiple-finger ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-z plane, and the MCP pivot is configured to utilize lateral movements of the residual finger within the ring to articulate the distal coupler within a plane parallel to an x-y plane. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: RCM Enterprise LLC
    Inventors: Robert Thompson, Jr., Jon Bengtsson, Anthony Charles Peto, Sydney Tye Minnis, Eric Dennis Klumper, Bradley Arthur Crittenden
  • Patent number: 10085908
    Abstract: A holder may be more easily mounted on a user's body by applying tension to a cable. An inner side surface of the holder with which the user's body comes in contact transmits uniform pressure to the user's body such that the holder may be more comfortable to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Youn Baek Lee, Yong Jae Kim, Jeong Hun Kim, Se Gon Roh, Min Hyung Lee, Jong Won Lee, Byung June Choi, Hyun Do Choi, Young Do Kwon, Tae Jun Sang
  • Patent number: 9905135
    Abstract: A healthcare simulation system including a mannequin with active physiological characteristics, a display monitor adapted for displaying physiological parameters, and a computer for controlling the mannequin and the monitor. A healthcare simulation method including the steps of programming the computer with healthcare scenarios, operating active characteristics of the mannequin, and dynamically displaying physiological parameters corresponding to patient vital signs. Alternative aspects of the invention include tools, such as computers and other equipment, for obtaining and displaying information and for interconnecting and interfacing participants, subjects and controllers in training systems and methods. Systems and methods for glucometer simulation and training are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: JC3 Innovations, LLC
    Inventors: David S. Zamierowski, Kathy A. Carver, Lawrence E. Guerra
  • Patent number: 9892659
    Abstract: A healthcare simulation system including a mannequin with active physiological characteristics, a display monitor adapted for displaying physiological parameters, and a computer for controlling the mannequin and the monitor. A healthcare simulation method including the steps of programming the computer with healthcare scenarios, operating active characteristics of the mannequin, and dynamically displaying physiological parameters corresponding to patient vital signs. Alternative aspects of the invention include tools, such as computers and other equipment, for obtaining and displaying information and for interconnecting and interfacing participants, subjects and controllers in training systems and methods. Additional aspects of the invention include systems and methods for glucometer simulation and training. An embodiment includes a simulated finger configured for holding simulated blood serum and for puncture with a lancet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventors: David S. Zamierowski, Kathy A. Carver, Lawrence E. Guerra
  • Patent number: 9886874
    Abstract: A healthcare simulation system including a mannequin with active physiological characteristics, a display monitor adapted for displaying physiological parameters, and a computer for controlling the mannequin and the monitor. A healthcare simulation method including the steps of programming the computer with healthcare scenarios, operating active characteristics of the mannequin, and dynamically displaying physiological parameters corresponding to patient vital signs. Alternative aspects of the invention include tools, such as computers and other equipment, for obtaining and displaying information and for interconnecting and interfacing participants, subjects and controllers in training systems and methods. Additional aspects of the invention include systems and methods for glucometer simulation and training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: Johnson County Community College Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: David S. Zamierowski, Kathy A. Carver, Lawrence E. Guerra
  • Patent number: 9861499
    Abstract: A gripping device that comprises a first moveable jaw and a second fixed jaw is disclosed. The gripping device has a handle operatively engaged to the first moveable jaw and a connecting link operatively engaged to the first moveable jaw. The connecting link is positioned in at least one of a first position or a second position. The change in the position of the connecting link allows the gripping device to have either a default closed position or a default open position, which can be defined by voluntarily-open or voluntary-close modes of operation, respectively. The first moveable jaw moves in either of the modes of operation. The change in the mode of operation is accomplished through use of a connecting link that is passed through a singularity during the switching process to achieve the different output positions and directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
    Inventor: Jonathon Sensinger
  • Patent number: 9693884
    Abstract: A quick release prosthetic connector for detachably joining a threaded prosthetic socket to a prosthetic includes a socket-connect portion configured for connection to the prosthetic socket. A plurality of locking members is carried by the socket-connect portion. The plurality of locking members are positional between a release position and a locking position and normally biased in the locking position. A prosthetic-connect portion is configured for connection to the prosthetic. A plurality of locking member engaging apertures is provided in the prosthetic-connect portion. The plurality of locking member engaging apertures are configured to selectively receive the plurality of locking members, respectively, of the socket-connect portion in the locking position of the plurality of locking members. A lock portion is carried by the socket-connect portion. The lock portion is configured to selectively lock and release the prosthetic-connect portion with respect to the socket-connect portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2017
    Assignee: SERGIUS INDUSTRIES, LLC
    Inventors: Jedidiah D. Morgan, Stephen E. Harris
  • Patent number: 9480582
    Abstract: A system for conscious sensory feedback for a body extremity without sensation or a body extremity prosthesis is disclosed, as well as methods for conscious sensory feedback based on said system; a glove, a sock and a body extremity prosthesis comprising said system; and use of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2016
    Assignee: OSSUR HF
    Inventor: Göran Lundborg
  • Patent number: 9474630
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to the field of prosthetics, more specifically to a pinless anthropomorphic hinge or joint, and a digit comprising one or more phalanges connected by and articulating around pinless joints, whereby the joints provide compliant movement in more than one plane. This disclosure also relates to modular prosthetic systems comprising multiple digits, in particular for partial-hand replacements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: Invisible Hand Enterprises, LLC
    Inventor: Bradley Delton Veatch
  • Patent number: 9402749
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling a movable component of a prosthesis or orthosis. The method (100) comprises moving the component by means of a motor (102) and determining when movement of the component is arrested when the component bears against a surface (104, 106). Thereafter a plurality of driving electrical pulses are applied to the motor (110) in dependence on the determination and when movement of the component is arrested to thereby drive the motor so as to cause the component to bear against the surface with greater force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: TOUCH BIONICS LIMITED
    Inventors: Hugh Gill, Douglas Derek Smith, Stuart Edgar Mead, Brian Nolan
  • Patent number: 9152167
    Abstract: A steering means for vehicles suitable for use by disabled persons comprises an attachment device for receiving an upper limb of a person who does not have the ability to grasp the steering means. The attachment device comprises a hollow body in which are provided a seat to receive an extremity of the upper limb, a front opening, having an open outline, through which the limb projects when the extremity is received in the seat, a side opening, joined to the front opening, extending along the hollow body to allow the extremity of the limb to be inserted into or removed from the hollow body, respectively, as well as opposing abutment regions shaped and spaced so as to abut the extremity of the limb when the latter is subjected to a torsion movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2015
    Assignees: Innovation Factory SRL
    Inventor: Fulvio Marotto
  • Patent number: 9114030
    Abstract: A control system for control of a prosthetic device having a plurality of actuators receives an orientation signal indicative of a desired movement. The control system evaluates whether the prosthetic device may move as desired with a current angle of rotation and commands at least one actuator to move the prosthetic device as desired by maintaining the current angle of rotation or by adjusting the angle of rotation if the prosthetic device cannot move as desired with the current angle. The control system may alternate between commanding a first subset of actuators and a second subset of actuators each time the orientation signal is indicative of a neutral position. The control system may include a position sensor and a compliance sensor and may command at least one actuator based on a combination of positional control using the position sensor and force control using the compliance sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Assignee: DEKA PRODUCTS LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
    Inventors: Dirk Albertus van der Merwe, Gregory Randall Lanier, Jr., John Matthew Kerwin, Gerald Michael Guay, N. Christopher Perry, Susan D. Dastous
  • Patent number: 9028560
    Abstract: A terminal device is described which is attachable to the end of a prosthesis on an arm and there serves as an attachment site for a variety of tools or implements designed to mate with the terminal device. A locking ring mechanism is also described herein. The terminal device comprises a first main part in operable and pivotal combination with a second main part, the combined main parts providing on one end a device for attaching to the end of an a prosthesis, and on the other a device for attaching a variety of implements, the said device for implement attachment providing articulation capabilities that allow positioning of the implements in a variety of positions relative to the position of the arm prosthesis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventors: Ronald H. Farquharson, Johnnie Rouse
  • Publication number: 20150119998
    Abstract: The invention relates to an assist arm intended to be fitted on an exoskeleton, having a mounting plate (2) carrying a drive member (20), a shoulder segment (4) articulated on the mounting plate, an arm segment (6) having a proximal end articulated on the shoulder segment, a forearm segment (8) having a proximal end articulated on a distal end of the arm segment, an actuating cable (27) driven by the drive member and forming two strands (27a, 27b) which extend parallel to the first axis in order to pass through the first articulation and to wind around a receiving pulley (30) which is mounted in a rotating manner about the second axis and which rotates as one with the arm, and connecting means (31, 32, 33) coupled between the shoulder segment and the forearm second segment and arranged such that a flexion of the arm segment causes a concomitant flexion of the forearm segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Philippe Garrec, Yann Perrot, Dominique Ponsort, Aurelie Riglet
  • Patent number: 8979943
    Abstract: A prosthetic arm apparatus including a plurality of segments that provide a user of the prosthetic arm apparatus with substantially the same movement capability and function as a human arm. The segments are connectable to one another and connectable to a prosthetic support apparatus that may be adorned by the user. Some segments may provide movement about more than one axis using a single actuator. The prosthetic arm apparatus may include a user interface incorporated therein and may include one or more communication systems for communicating with external devices. The prosthetic limb includes at least one antenna in connection with the controller for transmitting and receiving signals. The at least one antenna including the housing of the prosthetic limb segment as a radiating element. The prosthetic limb further includes a user interface integrally formed in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Christopher O. Evans, N. Christopher Perry, Dirk A. van der Merwe, Keith D. Violette, Stewart M. Coulter, Thomas A. Doyon, David Blumberg, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8956421
    Abstract: A dynamic support system includes a control system for controlling inflation and deflation of at least one actuator having an inlet connectable to the a control unit of the dynamic support system. The control unit may be in communication with a sensor and may control inflation and deflation of the at least one actuator in response to information provided by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Alexander D. Streeter, David E. Altobelli, N. Christopher Perry
  • Publication number: 20150012114
    Abstract: A terminal device is described which is attachable to the end of a prosthesis on an arm and there serves as an attachment site for a variety of tools or implements designed to mate with the terminal device. A locking ring mechanism is also described herein, The terminal device comprises a first main part in operable and pivotal combination with a second main part, the combined main parts providing on one end a device for attaching to the end of an a prosthesis, and on the other a device for attaching a variety of implements, the said device for implement attachment providing articulation capabilities that allow positioning of the implements in a variety of positions relative to the position of the arm prosthesis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Inventors: Ronald H. Farquharson, Johnnie Rouse
  • Patent number: 8870970
    Abstract: A dynamic support apparatus having a frame, a dynamic interface, a temperature control mechanism, and a control system. The dynamic interface is capable of changing its geometry and is disposed on the top surface of the frame. The control system is operably connected to the dynamic interface and controls the changing geometry of the dynamic interface. There is also a temperature control mechanism disposed on the top surface of the frame for maintaining a comfortable temperature and moisture environment between the apparatus and the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: David E. Altobelli, N. Christopher Perry
  • Patent number: 8864845
    Abstract: A system for control of a prosthetic device includes at least one Inertial Measurement Unit detecting orientation of a user's foot. The at least one Inertial Measurement Unit is in communication with a device module configured to command at least one actuator of a prosthetic device. The at least one Inertial Measurement unit sends output signals related to orientation of the user's foot to the device module and the device module controls the at least one actuator of the prosthetic device based on the signals from the at least one Inertial Measurement Unit. The device module controls movement of an endpoint of the device within a movement envelope. The device module commanding movement of the end point within the movement envelope through at least simultaneous and/or independent actuation of the plurality of actuators based on the at least one body input signal in accordance with a movement function to achieve the desired directional movement of the endpoint within the movement envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: DEKA Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Dirk Albertus van der Merwe, Gregory Randall Lanier, Jr., John Matthew Kerwin, Gerald Michael Guay, N. Christopher Perry, Susan D. Dastous
  • Publication number: 20140303749
    Abstract: There is disclosed a prosthetic full finger assembly. In an embodiment, the assembly includes a distal phalanges. The assembly further includes a middle phalanges having an operable connection with the distal phalanges. The assembly includes a proximal phalanges ring having an operable connection with the middle phalanges. The assembly includes a proximal phalanges yoke having an operable connection with the proximal phalanges ring. The assembly includes a metacarpal back place having an operable connection with the proximal phalanges yoke and an operable connection with the proximal phalanges ring. The assembly includes an anchoring portion having an operable connection with the metacarpal back plate at a location proximal of the operable connection of the proximal phalanges ring. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Colin Macduff
  • Publication number: 20140303750
    Abstract: There is disclosed a prosthetic thumb assembly. In an embodiment, the assembly includes a distal phalanges. The assembly includes a proximal phalanges having an operable connection with the distal phalanges. The assembly includes a thumb strap ring having an operable connection with the distal phalanges. The assembly includes a proximal phalanges yoke having an operable connection with the thumb strap ring. The assembly includes an anchoring portion having an operable connection with the thumb strap ring. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Charles Colin MacDuff
  • Patent number: 8845754
    Abstract: A control unit system. The system includes a control unit which includes a control unit charging interface, at least one magnet located proximate to the control unit charging interface, at least one actuator, a detachable manifold including at least one magnet, fluidly coupled to the at least one actuator, a pump connected to the at least one actuator for causing actuation thereof, and a control system for controlling the pump, wherein the control system controls the pump to actuate the at least one actuator at least in response to a signal received by the control system. The system also includes a recharging device configured to receive the control unit, the recharging device including a reed switch, wherein when the magnet in the control unit is located proximate to the reed switch, the switch is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Alexander D. Streeter, David E. Altobelli, N. Christopher Perry
  • Patent number: 8840681
    Abstract: A prosthetic interface includes an orientation assembly, a mounting plate and a load bearing assembly. The orientation assembly includes an anterior frame portion and a posterior frame portion. The anterior frame portion extends over an anterior portion of a torso of a wearer of the prosthetic interface. The posterior frame portion extends over a posterior portion of the torso. The mounting plate is disposed at an intersection of the posterior frame portion and the anterior frame portion. The mounting plate forms a structure to which a prosthetic limb is attachable. The load bearing assembly includes breathable fabric forming a load distribution matrix to distribute a load on the mounting plate over portions of the torso with which the fabric is in contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Jay Martin, Paul J. Biermann
  • Publication number: 20140277588
    Abstract: A system and method for substituting vision based cues for lost sense of touch may employ a small electronic display or other non-tactile feedback mechanism that attaches to a prosthetic arm or other limb. Devices according to certain embodiments of the present invention include an array of pressure or other sensors that may be deployed against a prosthetic hand by structures such as finger cots or gloves containing the sensors. In one embodiment, an electronic display may be used to display a colored bar that moves from left to right, and changes colors along a gradient, as detected pressure on the sensors deposed against the hand increases. Movement across space and change in color are both easily discernable visual cues for these purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Eli Robert Patt, Joey Isaac Ben-Zvi, Alexander Robert Mosch
  • Patent number: 8828096
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a covering (10) for a prosthetic hand. The covering (10) comprises a first layer (12) in the form of a glove or mitten configured to cover a prosthetic hand, with the first layer (12) comprising an elastomer. The covering (10) also comprises a second layer (14) disposed over at least part of a surface of the first layer (12), with the second layer being unitary and comprising polyurethane. At least one part of an interior surface of the first layer (12) is uncovered by the second layer (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Touch EMAS Limited
    Inventor: Hugh Gill
  • Patent number: 8821587
    Abstract: A prosthetic device control apparatus includes at least one sensor worn by a user. The sensor(s) determines a user's movement. A control module is in communication with the sensor(s). The control module communicates movement information to a prosthetic. A method for controlling a prosthetic device includes sensing a user's movement, communicating the movement through a control module to a prosthetic device; and controlling the movement of a prosthetic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: DEKA Products Limited Partnership
    Inventors: Gregory R. Lanier, N. Christopher Perry, Andrew P. Pascoe, Dirk A. Van der Merwe
  • Patent number: 8821588
    Abstract: Anchoring system for a prosthetic or orthotic device includes a fastener comprising a base and a clasp-engaging member, wherein the fastener further comprises an adhesive to secure the base directly to skin of a wearer; and a clasp comprising a first end configured to engage and rotate about the clasp-engaging member and a second end configured to engage the activation cable of a prosthetic or orthotic device. Also included is a prosthetic or orthotic system that includes the anchoring system in combination with a prosthetic or orthotic device, as well as a method of securing a prosthetic or orthotic device on a wearer using the anchoring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Shriners Hospitals for Children
    Inventor: Debra Ann Latour
  • Patent number: 8818557
    Abstract: A methodology for using cortical signals to control a multi jointed prosthetic device for direct real-time interaction with the physical environment, including improved methods for calibration and training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: University of Pittsburgh—Of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education
    Inventors: Meel Velliste, Sagi Perel, Andrew S. Whitford, Andrew Schwartz
  • Publication number: 20140236314
    Abstract: An apparatus that allows a glove wearer or the wearer of a prosthetic limb to operate a device having a capacitive touchscreen is disclosed. There are three solutions provided in the disclosed invention. The first embodiment of the disclosed invention is directed to a conductive finger sock that can be applied to a digit of a non-conductive artificial limb. The finger sock may cover the whole digit of the artificial limb or may cover only the tip. The second embodiment is an adhesive element having a conductive material such as a conductive thread or a conductive sponge material. The adhesive element can be attached to a glove or to a prosthetic limb or may be used as an actual bandage. The third embodiment of the disclosed invention is directed to a factory integrated conductive tip that is part of a digit of a non-conductive artificial limb.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Publication date: August 21, 2014
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: JOHN ROBERT VAN WIEMEERSCH
  • Patent number: 8808397
    Abstract: A prosthesis (1) for providing at least one mechanically operable digit member. The prosthesis (1) has at least one digit member (3) extending generally tangentially with respect to a fixed worm gear wheel means (5) on a support member of the prosthesis and mounted for rotation about the worm gear wheel means axis (8). The digit member has a drive motor (7) operable to drive a worm means (13). The worm means (13) is in engagement with the worm gear wheel means (5) so that when the drive motor is operated, in use of the prosthesis, the digit member (3) moves around the worm gear wheel means (5), in which the worm means (13) is disposed outwith the digit member (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Touch Emas Limited
    Inventor: David James Gow
  • Patent number: 8790258
    Abstract: Instrumented orthoses with more sophisticated structures provide for coordinated support and rehabilitation of complex joints and multiple injured joints. Improved instrumented orthoses can include hinges that can rotate in multiple different planes. Particularly preferred embodiments include a shoulder brace with a hand hold and a lower extremities brace. Preferably, a control unit monitors the output Of transducers used to instrument the brace. A patient can be prompted by the control unit for the performance of a variety of different monitored exercises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: IZEX Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Stark, Duane Oyen, Blair P. Mowery
  • Patent number: 8727410
    Abstract: A method for manipulating an object with a remote vehicle having a manipulator attached to a manipulator arm. The manipulator comprises a jamming or other phase change material in a housing. The method comprises pressing the manipulator housing to the object, activating the jamming or other phase change material to cause the manipulator to grasp the object, and moving one or more of the manipulator arm and the remote vehicle to manipulate the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher Vernon Jones, Erik Edward Steltz, Annan Michael Mozeika
  • Patent number: 8696763
    Abstract: The invention provides a prosthetic apparatus (10) and method of operating the same. The prosthetic apparatus (10) includes an upper limb prosthesis (12) comprising at least one mechanically operable digit (14) and at least one sensor configured to be disposed on the user. The at least one sensor being operative to sense a path described by the sensor during movement thereof by the user and to provide a sensed path output in dependence upon the path. The apparatus (10) also includes a processor (24) operative to provide for actuation of the at least one digit (14) in dependence on the sensed path output having a predetermined characteristic and such that the at least one digit (14) moves in a predetermined fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Touch EMAS Ltd.
    Inventor: Hugh Gill
  • Patent number: 8679192
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for acquiring and processing myoelectric signals in order to control a prosthetic arm, comprising: a pair of electrodes positioned in a muscle in the residual limb of an arm that has been amputated in order to detect myoelectric signals; an electrode positioned at a distance from said pair of electrodes, which acts as an earth system; a myoelectric signal conditioning means; and a prosthesis controlling and processing means which receives conditioned signals from the conditioning means. According to the invention, the prosthesis controlling and processing means includes: a comparison means for comparing a muscle contraction time and a muscle contraction voltage with a threshold time and a threshold voltage, respectively; and an activation means for activating at least one motor which produces a predetermined movement of the prosthesis in response to an activation signal transmitted from the aforementioned comparison means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Luis Armando Bravo Castillo
  • Patent number: 8663339
    Abstract: The invention relates to an adjusting device for a prosthetic device, having a drive (1) for adjusting at least one first component of the prosthetic device relative to a second component, wherein the drive (1) is designed as a permanent magnet electric motor and comprises a stator (4) having exciter coils (3) and a rotor (2) having at least one permanent magnet is an armature magnet (5). At least one holding magnet (6) in the form of a permanent magnet is arranged on the stator (4) to form a cogging torque for the rotor (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Otto Bock Healthcare Products GmbH
    Inventors: Josef Inschlag, Marcus Eder
  • Patent number: 8657887
    Abstract: A prosthesis covering comprising an outer layer having an exterior surface defining an outermost surface of a prosthesis; and an inner layer having an interior surface that lies adjacent the prosthesis when the prosthesis covering is on the prosthesis. The outer layer defines a space in which the inner layer is received such that an inwardly directed surface of the outer layer lies adjacent an outwardly directed surface of the inner layer. The inwardly directed surface of the outer layer and the outwardly directed surface of the inner layer are attached to each other at a plurality of spaced apart locations, the inwardly directed surface of the outer layer and the outwardly directed surface of the inner layer elsewhere being unattached to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: Tough EMAS Limited
    Inventor: Hugh Gill
  • Patent number: 8641781
    Abstract: A socket is described for use with a partial prosthesis of the hand. The socket includes a base layer molded to encapsulate and conform to the contours of a natural hand. The base layer has a dorsal portion and a palmar portion. The palmar portion has a distal edge positioned, in use, proximal to the transverse metacarpal arch of a natural hand, and the dorsal portion having a distal edge positioned, in use, along a transverse span along a mid-portion of the dorsum of the natural hand in an area proximal to the area of the second through fifth metacarpals of a natural hand. The palmar portion of the base layer defines a first open area around the hypo-thenar eminence and a second open area surrounding on the palmar portion the thenar eminence and extending to the radial side of the second metacarpal on the dorsal portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Advanced Arm Dynamics of Texas Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Miguelez, Robert Dodson, Daniel Conyers, MacJulian Lang, Joseph Christopher Lake
  • Patent number: 8641782
    Abstract: A compact exoskeleton arm support device compensates for gravity. The compact exoskeleton arm support device compensating for gravity may include at least five joints. Among the at least five joints, two joints may be driven by actuators, and the remaining joints may be driven by user force. The compact exoskeleton arm support device compensating for gravity effectively uses the actuators, thereby increasing operating efficiency and reducing production costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jeong Hun Kim, Young Bo Shim, Soo Sang Yang, Yong Jae Kim, Kwang Jun Kim
  • Patent number: 8632607
    Abstract: Permanent magnets or electromagnets or a combination of such magnets are provided to retain a prosthetic device on an extremity or limb, such as an amputated arm. The prosthesis utilizes the opposing forces, which are developed by virtue of like magnetic poles being in proximity to each other, to urge the prosthesis to remain attached to the extremity. The prosthesis is prevented from rotation by virtue of a centering force that is provided by an attachment magnet in the prosthesis being placed between two implanted magnets. A removable mounting ring is placed over the prosthesis to maintain it on the extremity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Alfred E. Mann Foundation for Scientific Research
    Inventors: Joseph H. Schulman, Charles L. Byers
  • Patent number: 8591599
    Abstract: An assembly may include a plurality of electrode contacts adapted to receive myoelectric signals from a body when placed into contact with the body. The assembly may also include a support structure adapted to support the electrode contacts. The assembly may also include a prosthetic liner, the support structure being embedded in the prosthetic liner. The electrode contacts may be positioned to be extending through openings in the prosthetic liner. The assembly may also include signal processing circuitry adapted to process the myoelectric signals from the body. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Infinite Biomedical Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Rahul R. Kaliki, Neha Malhotra, Girish Singhal, Nitish V. Thakor