Abstract: A connector includes in a main body, first to third ports each having a flow channel allowing inflow or outflow of an infusion solution, an internal flow channel configured to communicate between flow channels of the first port and the second port, and a through hole connected to an internal flow channel. In the internal flow channel, an upstream side wall surface is provided which guides infusion solution flowing into the internal flow channel from the first port to the through hole, and reduces the cross-sectional area of the flow channel for the infusion solution near the through hole relative to the cross-sectional area of the flow channel of the first port in order to increase a flow rate of the infusion solution.

Abstract: Provided is a medical tube including at least one layer made of a composition containing a cross-copolymerized olefin-aromatic vinyl compound-diene copolymer. The medical tube according to the present invention, which has excellent kink resistance, toughness, transparency, non-adsorption of drugs, and the like, and is made of a non-toxic polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-free material, may be combined with an injection-molded article of the resin, the resultant article may be effectively used for medical supplies such as an infusion set, a blood transfusion set, a medical liquid container set, a medical catheter, and the like.

Abstract: A fluid transfer device may include a fluid transfer tip that has a tapered friction fitting for a corresponding hub and an additional means for gripping a hub in a locked position when connected to the fluid transfer tip by the friction fitting. A disconnecting member is provided with a resilient bias that causes it to engage the gripping means and thereby assist in holding the hub in the locked position. The disconnecting member is moveable relative to the fluid transfer tip and against the resilient bias so as to release engagement of the gripping means, move the hub out of the locked position provided by the gripping means and release the hub from the friction fitting.

Abstract: Luer connector including a primary Luer male connector having a secondary female section extending from a top distal part of the primary Luer male connector back towards a proximal part thereof, the primary Luer male connector including a first inner fluid flow channel extending from a proximal end thereof to the secondary female section, the primary Luer male connector being configured to mate with a primary Luer female connector having a secondary male section including a second inner fluid flow channel.

Abstract: A connector is disclosed, the connection including a main line flow channel through which a transfusion material can be circulated; a body includes a through-hole communicating with the main line flow channel; and a valve includes a slit that can open and close with respect to the main line flow channel due to elastic deformation of a deformed portion. The body includes a stopper for restricting a predetermined or more degree of elastic deformation of the valve when the valve is displaced.

Abstract: Provided is an IV flow controller which adjusts the amount of an IV material supplied to a patient through an IV tube and to which a flushing feature is added. The IV controller according to the present invention includes: a first body unit, a second body unit, a fixed roller, and a driving roller. The fixed roller is fixedly and rotatably arranged, and has a first gear unit and a second gear unit. The driving roller is accommodated such that a portion thereof is exposed, and the driving roller is moved along the lengthwise direction while controlling the flow of the IV when the exposed portion is turned. Also, in the flushing position, the driving roller rotates in cooperation with the first gear unit of the fixed roller across the IV tube so as to flush the latter. The second gear unit of the fixed roller may be configured so as to have a ratchet gear, and the second body unit has a pawl which meshes with the ratchet gear of the fixed roller in order to prevent reverse rotation.

Abstract: A pad (1) for applying stimulation to a human or animal body comprises an electrically conducting member (6a, 6b) comprising a surface (9) and a groove (7) adjacent the surface (9). The pad further comprises a first portion (2) moulded upon said surface (9) of the electrically conducting member (6a, 6b). The electrically conducting member (6a, 6b) can have an elliptical shape.

Abstract: An oral appliance is disclosed that provides electrical stimulation to a patient's tongue in a manner that prevents collapse of the tongue and/or soft palate during sleep. More specifically, the appliance may induce a reversible current or currents in a lateral direction across the tongue in a manner that shortens the patient's Palatoglossus muscle, which in turn pulls the patient's soft palate downward towards a base of the tongue and/or decreases a volume of the tongue.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the concurrent treatment of multiple oral diseases and defects while promoting general oral hygiene utilizing electricity are provided for non-human animals. Electrodes are used to deliver an electrical current to the gingival tissues of a mouth in order to achieve a number of therapeutic, prophylactic, and regenerative benefits. These benefits include killing oral microbes, increasing oral vasodilation, reducing oral biofilm, improving oral blood circulation, reversing oral bone resorption, promoting oral osteogenesis, treating gum recession, and fostering gingival regeneration. Other benefits include the treatment of gingivitis, periodontitis, and oral malodor, and other systemic diseases correlated with oral pathogens.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods for improving male fertility inter alia by increasing sperm count in a male subject. The methods of the invention comprise applying a positive electrical current below sensation level to at least one site of a scrotum of a subject in need thereof.

Abstract: Effective systems and methods for improving neural communication impairment of a vertebrate being and affecting motor activity of a peripheral body part including a first signal providing component configured to provide pulsed peripheral stimulation signals at the peripheral body part, a second signal providing component configured to provide a pulsed motor cortex stimulation signal to a motor cortex area, a substantially DC signal providing component configured to provide direct current spinal stimulation signal at a neural spinal junction and a controller component configured to control timing of the pulsed peripheral stimulation signals and the pulsed motor cortex stimulation signal.

Abstract: One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for treating a functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorder in a subject, such as functional dyspepsia or functional constipation. One step of the method can include inserting a therapy delivery device into a vessel of the subject. Next, the therapy delivery device can be advanced to a point substantially adjacent an intraluminal target site of the autonomic nervous system, the central nervous system, or both, that is associated with the functional GI disorder. The therapy delivery device can then be activated to deliver a therapy signal to the intraluminal target site in an amount and for a time sufficient to effect a change in sympathetic and/or parasympathetic activity in the subject and thereby treat the functional GI disorder.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a system for transcranial stimulation of a head region of a subject, wherein the system includes an electrode arrangement having a plurality of electrodes coupled to an electrode drive arrangement. The electrodes are operable to contact onto a scalp of the head region of the subject and the drive arrangement is operable to generate electrical signals for driving the plurality of electrodes to cause transcranial stimulation of the head region of the subject. The system further includes a monitoring arrangement for monitoring spatial positions of the plurality of electrodes relative to the head region of the subject, and for indicating positional errors of the electrodes for enabling repositioning of the electrodes and/or a change in the electrical signals applied to the electrodes, for providing improved transcranial stimulation of the head region of the subject and/or mutual relative positions of the plurality of electrodes.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating a variety of diseases and disorders that are primarily or at least partially driven by an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, such as asthma, COPD, depression, anxiety, epilepsy, fibromyalgia, and the like. The invention involves the use of an energy source comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy that is transmitted non-invasively to, or in close proximity to, a selected nerve to temporarily stimulate, block and/or modulate the signals in the selected nerve such that neural pathways are activated to release inhibitory neurotransmitters in the patient's brain.

Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are disclosed for treating bronchial constriction related to asthma, anaphylaxis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exercise-induced bronchospasm and post-operative bronchospasm. The treatment comprises transmitting impulses of energy non-invasively to selected nerve fibers that activate neural pathways to reduce the release of acetycholine from airway-related vagal preganglionic neurons within the brain of the patient. The transmitted energy impulses, comprising magnetic and/or electrical energy, stimulate the selected nerve fibers to produce the bronchodilation.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, a modular antitachyarrhythmia therapy system. In an example, a modular antitachyarrhythmia system includes at least two separate modules that coordinate delivery an antitachyarrhythmia therapy, such as defibrillation therapy. In another example, a modular antitachyarrhythmia therapy system includes a sensing module, an analysis module, and a therapy module.

Abstract: Approaches for selecting an electrode combination of multi-electrode pacing devices are described. Electrode combination parameters that support cardiac function consistent with a prescribed therapy are evaluated for each of a plurality of electrode combinations. Electrode combination parameters that do not support cardiac function are evaluated for each of the plurality of electrode combinations. An order is determined for the electrode combinations based on the parameter evaluations. An electrode combination is selected based on the order, and therapy is delivered using the selected electrode combination.

Abstract: An implantable stimulation system comprises a stimulator for generating electrical stimulation and a conductive stimulation lead having a proximal end electrically coupled to the stimulator, wherein at least a first component of the impedance looking into the stimulator is substantially matched to the impedance of the stimulation lead. At least one distal stimulation electrode is positioned proximate the distal end of the stimulation lead.

Abstract: An implantable medical device is powered by a battery to deliver one or more therapies including at least one non-life-sustaining therapy such as neural stimulation for enhancing quality of life of a patient. When the battery approaches its end of life, the implantable medical device reduces power consumption of the neural stimulation (e.g., intensity of the neural stimulation) for extending the remaining battery life while maintaining a certain amount of therapeutic benefits for the patient. In one embodiment, the intensity of the neural stimulation is reduced in a tiered manner. In one embodiment in which the implantable medical device also delivers at least one life-sustaining cardiac stimulation therapy, the neural stimulation is disabled or adjusted to reduce its power consumption (e.g., intensity) while the intensity of the cardiac stimulation therapy is maintained when the battery is near its end of life.

Abstract: Approaches for characterizing a phrenic stimulation threshold, a cardiac capture threshold, a maximum device parameter, and a minimum device parameter are described. A plurality of cardiac pacing pulses can be delivered by using a cardiac pacing device, a pacing parameter of the plurality of cardiac pacing pulses being changed between delivery of at least some of the pulses. One or more sensor signals can be evaluated to detect stimulation of the phrenic nerve by one or more of the plurality of cardiac pacing pluses. The evaluation of the one or more sensor signals and the pacing parameter can be compared to determine if a phrenic stimulation threshold is at least one of higher than a maximum device parameter and lower than a minimum device parameter.

Abstract: An implantable cardiac device includes a sensor for sensing patient activity and detecting phrenic nerve activation. A first filter channel attenuates first frequencies of the sensor signal to produce a first filtered output. A second filter channel attenuates second frequencies of the accelerometer signal to produce a second filtered output. Patient activity is evaluated using the first filtered output and phrenic nerve activation caused by cardiac pacing is detected using the second filtered output.

Abstract: According to some methods, for example, preprogrammed in a microprocessor element of an implantable cardiac pacing system, at least one of a number of periodic pacing threshold searches includes steps to reduce an evoked response amplitude threshold for evoked response signal detection. The reduction may be to a minimum value measurable above zero, for example, as determined by establishing a ‘noise floor’. Alternately, amplitudes of test pacing pulses and corresponding post pulse signals are collected and reviewed to search for a break, to determine a lower value to which the evoked response threshold may be adjusted without detecting noise. Subsequent to reducing the threshold, if no evoked response signal is detected for a test pulse applied at or above a predetermined maximum desirable pulse energy, an operational pacing pulse energy is set to greater than or equal to the maximum desirable in conjunction with a reduction in pacing rate.

Abstract: An electrical stimulation system provides stimulation therapy to a patient. The system includes a neurostimulation lead that contacts patient tissue and couples with an implantable stimulation device, such as an implantable pulse generator, that receives stimulation parameters for providing stimulation therapy to a patient. The implantable stimulation device includes a header with a plurality of connector assemblies that receive an end of the neurostimulation lead, and a case containing a charging coil and a telemetry coil coupled to programming circuitry on a printed circuit board, which is in turn coupled to the connector assemblies via a feedthrough assembly. The telemetry coil receives data from an external programmer and transmits the data to the programming circuitry, which in turn uses the data to communicate to the connector assemblies and the neurostimulation lead to provide stimulation therapy to a patient.

Abstract: Medical monitoring and treatment apparatus, which is controlled by a plurality of control sources, includes a “personal medical device” (PMD) or an “implantable medical device” (IMD), respectively carried by, or implanted in, a patient. The PMD/IMD is alternatively self-controlled or controlled by one or more local external control stations, at or near the location of the patient, and/or one or more remote external control stations, remote from the patient. Either or both of the local and remote stations may be operated by a person, such as the patient, a patient facilitator and/or a medical professional, or the stations may operate automatically. Since the device is controlled by multiple sources, hierarchies are used to select the source of control.

Abstract: An apparatus comprises an external device for communication with an implantable device. The external device includes a communication circuit configured to receive a communication signal from at least a third device separate from the external device and the implantable device, a locating circuit configured to determine a location of the external device using the received communication signal, a port configured to receive user identity information into the external device, and a control circuit electrically coupled to the communication circuit, the locating circuit, and the port. The control circuit is configured to allow user access to an implantable device feature according to the determined location and received user identity information.

Abstract: A transcranial magnetic stimulation device has a capacitor for storing electrical energy. A wire coil delivers a magnetic pulse when the capacitor is actuated to cause current flow through the wire coil. A charging circuit charges the capacitor and there is a sensor which includes an unactivated state and an activated state. A control circuit connected to the body sensor initiates the delivery of a magnetic pulse when current from the capacitor flows through the wire coil.

Abstract: System and method for irradiating a region of interest of a medical device, implanted in a biological tissue, and the surrounding tissue. The system includes a translucent wall having an optically diffusing component and, optionally, an associated source of light embedded therein. The optical diffuser is optionally configured to outcouple light with a uniform spatial distribution and may include a network of biocompatible waveguides. The system may include a catheter with a distal end with an embedded diffuser that outcouples light delivered from the external source through a spiral of optical fiber, buried in the wall of the catheter. The system may include a biocompatible layer permanently embedded into the biological tissue and containing quantum dots that are activated wirelessly, through the layer, to irradiate the surrounding tissue from inside. Such a layer does not need to be removed from the tissue after irradiation of the tissue has been accomplished.

Abstract: A flexible eye mask for inducing brainwave in a brain of a wearer including a flexible substrate conformable with the contours of a face of the wearer, a plurality of light generation devices disposed upon the flexible substrate, a controller for controlling operation of the plurality of light generation devices and a power source for powering the plurality of light generation devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing phototherapy to an infant use the determined position and/or posture of an infant to provide effective phototherapy through a set of light sources, to avoid electromagnetic radiation from the light sources directly impinging on the eyes of the infant, and to reduce or limit the level of electromagnetic radiation leaked into the environment.

Abstract: A flexible lipolysis stimulating device and arrangement including a flexible substrate conformable with contours of a user's body, a plurality of radiation generating devices disposed upon the flexible substrate and a flexible housing conformable with the contours of the user's body, which is arranged to house the flexible substrate and the plurality of radiation generating devices.

Abstract: The invention relates to a determination apparatus for determining the pose and shape of an introduction element like a catheter within a living being, wherein the introduction element (12) is adapted to be used by a brachytherapy apparatus for introducing a radiation source (10) close to a target object (11) to be treated. A position determination element (27) like guidewire (20) with an electromagnetic tracking element (16) is introduced into the introduction element (12) such that it is arranged at different locations within the introduction element (12), wherein the positions of the position determination element (27) within the introduction element (12) are determined. The determined positions are then acquired depending on the determined positions for determining the pose and shape of the introduction element within the living being. This can lead to a determination procedure with reduced user interaction, thereby simplifying the determination procedure for the user.

Abstract: This invention is a medicament delivery vehicle, the vehicle comprising tubular members adapted to removably receive the medicament and an expandable stent adapted to receive the tubular members. Also provided is a medicament delivery vehicle, the vehicle comprised of tubular members which receive the medicament wherein the medicament comprises discrete entities and each of said entities are removably positioned at predetermined regions within the members.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of determining a radiation distribution, comprising: Determining or estimating movements of a patient during a radiation exposure; exposing a phantom to radiation, wherein the radiation exposure of the phantom corresponds to an intended radiation exposure of the patient; measuring first radiation values at respective first positions during the radiation exposure of the phantom; and calculating second radiation values at respective second positions based on said first radiation values and values of one or more parameters indicative of said movements of the patient.

Abstract: An image-guided radiation treatment (IGRT) system and method are described. An IGRT apparatus having a gantry frame including a ring member with the ring member being rotatable around a substantially horizontal, longitudinally extending central axis, and the ring member having first and second horizontally opposing ends. The IGRT apparatus further includes a radiation treatment head coupled to the ring member by an arm member with the arm member being connected to the ring member at an arm member base. The arm member extends outwardly from the first end of the ring member in a direction away from the second end and is supported only by the arm member base, and the radiation treatment head is dynamically movable in at least a longitudinal direction toward and away from the first end of the ring member.

Abstract: An image guided treatment is performed to treat a target. To perform the image guided treatment, measurement data indicative of target motion is acquired. A timing of one or more x-ray images is determined based on the measurement data. Treatment may be performed on the target using the position of the target.

Abstract: A method of irradiating a target in a patient comprising directing a beam of radiation from an external source of radiation 24 at the target in the patient from numerous directions in a broad solid angle by longitudinally rotating the external source of radiation 24 around a central axis and simultaneously or sequentially, in either order, latitudinally rotating the external source of radiation 24; a globe gantry 21 comprising (i) a front opening ring 22 with its origin on the central axis of the globe gantry 21, (ii) at least one arc-shaped, gantry support arm 23, which has a front end and a rear end and is part of a circle, (iii) an external source of radiation 24, which is mounted on at least one arc-shaped, gantry support arm 23, (iv) a rear rotational axle 25 with an axis along the central axis of the globe gantry 21, (v) a support base 27, and (vi) a rear housing 26 comprising a source of power, mechanisms for moving components of the globe gantry 21, and controllers for controlling the movement of the

Abstract: The invention provides for medical instrument (200, 400) comprising a magnetic resonance imaging system (202) and a high intensity focused ultrasound system (222). A processor (246) controls the medical instrument. Instructions cause the processor to control (100) the magnetic resonance imaging system to acquire the magnetic resonance data using a pulse sequence (254). The pulse sequence comprises an acoustic radiation force imaging pulse sequence (500, 600). The acoustic radiation force imaging pulse sequence comprises an excitation pulse (512) and a multi-dimensional gradient pulse (514) applied during the radio frequency excitation pulse for selectively exciting a region of interest (239) encompassing a target zone and at least a portion of the beam axis.

Abstract: An ultrasonic system operable at high drive frequencies and/or in pulsed operation is disclosed. The system may be used in a procedure to treat an occluded blood vessel. The system can be used to transmit ultrasonic energy from an ultrasonic transducer to a distal end of an ultrasonic transmission device. The ultrasonic device may operate at a resonant frequency. The resonant frequency can be determined prior to using the device and/or during use. The ultrasonic device may operate in a range of frequencies at or near resonance. Operational parameters including, for example, reflected vibrations, temperature, and/or user input can be used by the system to adjust the driving waveform.

Abstract: A system for simultaneously supplying compressed air to the personal breathing apparatus of a firefighter and to an internal combustion engine appliance, such as a chainsaw. The supply of air intake of the chainsaw is provided by means of an adapter which is configured to attach to both the air intake of the chainsaw and to a demand valve-type regulator.

Abstract: An industrial safety harness for allowing a distressed worker to lower him or herself from a distance at least six feet above ground. The harness comprises adjustable belt sections for the worker's upper chest, waist and upper thighs. In a grommet strap on the left shoulder of this harness, there is stored a brake pin guide and shortened brake pin and secondary brake strap. A triangular shaped panel for the worker's back holds a smaller diameter, lighter weight safety line, at least about 40 feet in length. One preferred line, made from Aramid®, passes through a modified delta cross brake that includes a Kevlar® component with a brake line guide that prevents line twisting. The improved brake applies frictional pressure from different directions at the same time.

Abstract: A method of providing a deluge system (10) on a boom (12) such as a boom that is used to conduct well flaring operations at an end thereof. The deluge system comprises a base unit (30), a stanchion (20), and a nozzle apparatus (22); the method comprising attaching the deluge system to a burner boom with a walkway, such that there remains a width of at least 30 cm clear passage on the boom's walkway after the deluge system has been attached. This provides an escape and/or rescue route for personnel should a dangerous situation occur, such as uncontrolled fire or personnel falling overboard. In preferred embodiments, the deluge system is attached to the boom outboard of handrail supports (which includes on a single handrail). The deluge system may have its own mechanism e.g. a winch, for moving the stanchion from a stowed position to an operative position which allows a safe and more optimum positioning of the stanchion away from the well flaring operation, as herein described.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a fire extinguishing composition containing a transition metal compound, comprising a salt of an organic acid of the fourth period elements in a subgroup and the group VIII; and using a pyrotechnic agent as a heat source and a power source, reacting through heat emitted by igniting the pyrotechnic agent to burn and outputting a fire extinguishing material.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a starting block system for use with a swimming pool. A pedestal is designed to support a platform. A back plate is disposed along a rear edge of the platform and has a width dimension that is less than the width dimension of the platform. A slide mechanism is disposed adjacent the rear edge of the platform and is in communication with the back plate. The back plate is designed to slide laterally adjacent the rear edge of the platform.

Abstract: A trampoline comprises a trampoline frame and trampoline bed. The trampoline frame is connected to springs and the springs in turn support the trampoline bed. A trampoline enclosure has enclosure poles. An inflatable ring is formed around the trampoline frame. Inflatable posts are attached to the enclosure poles. The trampoline enclosure has enclosure poles that enclose at least a portion of the inflatable ring. The inflatable ring is anchored by an anchor, and the anchor is formed as a fluid chamber configured to retain fluid. The anchor is configured to rest on a ground surface. The anchor can connect to a distal side or a bottom surface of the inflatable ring. The inflatable ring can be formed as a trampoline pad that is configured to cover the springs. Entrance panel is configured for releasable sealing.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus that provides multiple different exercises for a User, including both resistance movements and isometrics. The User interacts with the apparatus by grasping a bar. A resistance mechanism is symmetrically mounted on a second bar and provides infinitely variable resistance to the User, as well as soundproof operation. There is a vertical column that allows infinite positioning of the bars for different bodily exercises, and a bench for support. The User can change the exercise resistance by verbal commands, or the apparatus can vary the exercise resistance in response to the force applied by the User. The apparatus can be operated at locations where electric service is permanently unavailable, or in zero gravity; and the apparatus can be mounted inside a shallow closet and hidden from view. To verify accuracy, the resistance can be calibrated against a known quantity of weight.

Abstract: A weighted exercise slide device for use in performing a variety of exercise routines is comprised of a weight plate encapsulated within a layer of high density polyethylene. The upper surface of the device may be provided with a plurality of small shear connectors for aid in securing a gripping surface comprised of a layer a soft or friction enhanced material. The weight plate is of a standard overall dimension but the weight of the weight plate may be altered to allow for manufacture of a plurality of differently weighted exercise slide devices of a uniform shape and size from a single mold.

Abstract: Disclosed is a muscle toning garment with resistance elements, which may be fluid filled dampers. The garment provides resistance to movement throughout an angular range of motion. The garment may be low profile, and worn by a wearer as a primary garment or beneath conventional clothing. Toning may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques. Sensors may be provided for sensing any of a variety of biometric parameters and for determining exerted power or calories consumed.

Abstract: A stair climber apparatus has a frame and a plurality of stairs that are pivotably connected together in series and travel in a loop with respect to the frame. The plurality of stairs comprises a first stair having a tread and a riser. The tread and riser are pivotably connected together at a first pivot axis. The tread has a tread surface that supports an operator's foot. A stopping member is on the tread. The stopping member has a stop surface that extends transversely to and upwardly from the tread surface and prevents the operator's foot from overshooting the first pivot axis and engaging the riser as the operator steps onto the tread surface when the riser is pivoted away from the tread.

Abstract: Stair climber apparatuses have a frame having an inclined support that extends from a bottom portion to a top portion; a plurality of stairs that are connected together in series and travel in a loop around the inclined support; an electric motor; and a control circuit that controls a speed of the electric motor and an output direction of the electric motor. The electric motor is operatively connected to the plurality of stairs so as to move the plurality of stairs in an upward direction along the inclined support and so as to alternatively move the plurality of stairs in an opposite, downward direction along the inclined support. An operator input device at the bottom portion of the inclined support inputs a boarding command to the control circuit. Based on the boarding command, the control circuit controls the electric motor so as to move the plurality of stairs along the inclined support. Methods are for operating the stair climber apparatuses.

Abstract: A transformable exercise device used both for stability and strength training is disclosed. Embodiments include a main portion comprising a sphere that may be used wholly in the manner of a medicine ball, kettlebell, rolling device, or separated into two hemisphere elements and used for various exercises including push-ups, standing balance, agility training, and weight training. The two hemisphere elements may be easily and securely locked together with a U-shaped locking mechanism that, when actuated, is congruent with the surface of the sphere to create a medicine ball configuration. The locking mechanism may be modified with various handle attachments, or removed and replaced with separate components added externally to the device providing various hand or foot placements, or alter the nature of the exercise equipment. The device may be used in conjunction with current technology to provide visual and auditory feedback on user's balance or repetitions while performing exercises.