Abstract: A floating center variable radius splint or hinge for adjustably permitting angular motion of a body joint, to which the splint is connected, through a preselected angular range terminating at adjustably preselected minima and maxima and for preventing joint motion outside the range, includes a longitudinally extending spine adapted to flexibly bend, in response to joint motion, in a first transverse direction.

Abstract: A body weight support system for releasable securement to at least one leg of a person includes an upper support member adapted to be positioned above the knee and including an upper end adapted to be located immediately adjacent the buttocks-thigh interface to form a seat. A second, lower member adapted to be located beneath the knee and having a lower end adjacent the foot. A flexure assembly is located in the region of the knee and interconnects the first and second support members. The flexure assembly enables the person wearing the system to freely bend the knee through an angular range up to a predetermined angle at which a resistance exists to further flexure. An energy dampening section permits damped flexure of the flexure assembly beyond the predetermined angle to thereby absorb energy imparted to the support system by the person wearing it.

Abstract: A body weight support system for skiing or other physical activities including at least one leg brace. The brace consists of a pair of parallel elongated tubular members interconnected by a cable, a plurality of cylindrical segment members are interposed in the knee section of the brace with the cable extending therethrough to form non-resilient flexure means for allowing the brace to bend with the knee upon flexure of the knee. Tensioning means are provided for the cable to establish the tension therein and hence establish a maximum angle deflection of the flexure means. The brace and flexure means are non-resilient so that once the maximum angle is attained the brace resists further deflection. The brace also includes fabric means spanning the tubular members for supporting the legs of the wearer. Strap means are provided for securing the brace to the leg and to a boot (e.g., ski boot).

Abstract: A body weight support system for skiing or other physical activities including at least one leg brace. The brace consists of a pair of parallel elongated tubular members interconnected by a cable, a plurality of cylindrical segment members are interposed in the knee section of the brace with the cable extending therethrough to form non-resilient flexure means for allowing the brace to bend with the knee upon flexure of the knee. Tensioning means are provided for the cable to establish the tension therein and hence establish a maximum angle deflection of the flexure means. The brace and flexure means are non-resilient so that once the maximum angle is attained the brace resists further deflection. The brace also includes fabric means spanning the tubular members for supporting the legs of the wearer. Strap means are provided for securing the brace to the leg and to a boot (e.g., ski boot).