Abstract: A torque measuring device is described which provides for measurement of the rotative force applied against a shaft by engaging the shaft and an electric friction brake attached to a load cell for registering the force, and a reduced friction device for allowing the brake mounting plate to return to a neutral or zero position when force has been removed from the shaft. An externally selective voltage control actuates the friction brake.

Abstract: An electronic ratchet for allowing the application of mechanical resistance to an output shaft in one direction while ratcheting in the opposite direction, which comprises, in combination:(a) an electromagnetically controlled friction brake coupled to an output shaft;(b) provision for controlling the application of DC voltage across the electromagnet, regardless of the direction of rotation;(c) a switch for selectively applying such voltage to obtain resistance to clockwise, counter clockwise, or both directions of rotation;(d) an incremental shaft encoder coupled to the output shaft for determining the direction of shaft rotation;(e) a decoder for decoding the direction of shaft rotation; and(f) an armature through which the output shaft is inserted, the shaft and armature being held as a single rotating unit by opposing keys on the output shaft and the keyways being characterized by a degree of free play equal to the sensitivity of the shaft encoder, whereby the direction of shaft revolution can be determin

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the rehabilitation of damaged limbs for use in the operation of a tool wherein accessories with handles corresponding to the handles of familiar tools are attached to a shaft in a manner such that the movements of the handle corresponding to the normal operation of the tool product rotation of a shaft. A preselected resistance is applied to the rotation of the shaft by electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical means, and the resistance and the accessory attached can be varied in accordance with the capability of the damaged limb.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the rehabilitation of damaged limbs for use in the operation of a tool wherein accessories with handles corresponding to the handles of familiar tools are attached to a shaft in a manner such that the movements of the handle corresponding to the normal operatin of the tool product rotation of a shaft. A preselected resistance is applied to the rotation of the shaft by electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or mechanical means, and the resistance and the accessory attached can be varied in accordance with the capability of the damaged limb.