Abstract: A bio-feedback system to support the collection of a plurality of physiological parameter values of a subject being monitored. The physiological parameter values collected are processed to determine and present to the subject a continuously updated succession of presentation states, possibly multimedia in nature, in order to attempt to enhance the bio-feedback capability of the system. The system includes a digitizing camera arranged to continually capture an image of the subject. The presentation states, which include the captured image of the subject, are accented by color accents including curved bands of color coextensive with and juxtaposed to the outline of the image of the subject. The color of the bands may be appropriately altered in a predefined manner as determined by changes in the physiological parameter values collected and processed.

Abstract: The invention provides a speech therapy system, comprising a first channel including a microphone, and a first analog-to-digital (A/D) transducer for transducing voice signals from the microphone into digital form, a second channel including at least one respiration sensor attachable to a user's body for detecting breathing motion, and a second A/D transducer connected to the sensor for transducing breathing motion signals into digital form. The system further includes a processing, video display and voice output unit, to which the first and second channels are connected, for the simultaneous display of voice and breathing motion patterns while effecting the sounding of the voice signals.

Abstract: A psychotherapy apparatus and method for inputting and shaping new emotional, physiological and cognitive response patterns in a patient includes an enclosure for isolating a patient from external stimuli, lights and earphones for respectively generating and presenting visual and auditory stimuli to the patient, an air flow delivery tube, an air flow fan for delivering a flow of air to the patient for inhalation by the patient, an electro-thermal heat pump coupled to the tube and fan being operable for controlling the temperature of the flow of air delivered to and inhaled by the patient to thereby control the temperature of the patient's hypothalamus, and a flow control valve between the heat pump and tube and being operable to control the proportion of heated and cooled air entering the tube.

Abstract: A method for mediating social and behavioral influence processes through an interactive telecommunications guidance system for use in medicine and business (10) that utilizes an expert (200) such as a physician, counselor, manager, supervisor, trainer, or peer in association with a computer (16) that produces and sends a series of motivational messages and/or questions to a client, patient or employee (50) for changing or reinforcing a specific behavioral problem and goal management. The system (10) consists of a client database (12) and a client program (14) that includes for each client unique motivational messages and/or questions based on a model such as the transtheoretical model of change comprising the six stages of behavioral change (100) and the 14 processes of change (114), as interwining, interacting variables in the modification of health, mental health, and work site behaviors of the client or employee (50).

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assisting a user to control a device in response to a combination of electroencephalographic and electromyographic potentials. The user selects a number of reference frequencies in a range of from 0.5 Hz to 45 Hz defining a like number of control signals. A digital lock-in amplifier is used with a moving average time window filter to produce control signals which are presented to the user. Control system responsiveness is controlled by adjusting the lengths of the moving average time windows. A phase-locked loop is closed around each control signal and is used to track the shifting frequencies of the control signals. The user is able to sense and control changes in the magnitude and frequency of the control signals in the control of the device.

Abstract: Method for treating a medical condition in a human patient comprising choosing a psychological strategy for treating the medical condition, encoding electronic instructions for an interactive video game in such a way that the interactive video game implements the psychological strategy, loading the electronic instructions into a microprocessor-based unit (10, 30) equipped with a display (14, 34) for displaying the interactive video game and with an patient input device (16, 36a, 36b, 36c, 36d, 36e) for receiving responses to the interactive video game from the human patient, and instructing the human patient how and when to use the microprocessor-based unit (10) to play the interactive video game. The interactive video game contains instructions for a scoring procedure for quantitatively analyzing the medical condition of the human patient, and/or counseling instructions or self-care instructions.

Abstract: A multimedia computerized system for detecting emotional responses of human beings and the changes therein over time.

Abstract: A capacitive biofeedback sensor including a polyurethane dielectric sandwiched between two wire mesh or carbon impregnated silicone rubber conductors. The sensor is placed within a patient's shoe, boot, ankle, brace, crutch, hand grip, wheelchair, etc., and provides biofeedback to help patients relearn function or prevent complications that impede function.

Abstract: An automated and interactive positive motivation system (10) that allows a physician, counselor or trainer to produce and send a series of motivational messages and/or questions to a client (50) to change or reinforce a specific behavioral problem. The system (10) consists of a client database (12) and a client program (14) that includes for each client unique motivational messages and/or questions based on the transtheoretical model of change comprising the six stages of behavioral change (100) and the 14 processes of change (114), as interwinding, interacting variables in the modification of health and mental health behaviors of the client (50). The client program (14) utilizes the associated 14 processes of change (114) to move the client (50) through one of the six stages of behavioral change (100) when appropriate by using a plurality of transmission and receiving means.

Abstract: A device for equalizing a patient's potential with respect to medical equipment, in particular upon recording an electrocardiogram, includes at least two measuring electrodes and a reference electrode which are adapted to be applied to the patient, a drive-signal generation circuit having its output side connected to said reference electrode, a control circuit which has supplied thereto the measuring signals from said measuring electrodes and which examines whether the measuring signals lie within a predetermined range, said control circuit supplying said measuring signals to inputs of the drive-signal generation circuit, if said measuring signals lie within a predetermined range.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assisting a user to control a device in response to a combination of electroencephalographic and electromyographic potentials. The user selects a number of reference frequencies in a range of from 0.5 Hz to 45 Hz defining a like number of control signals. A digital lock-in amplifier is used with a moving average time window filter to produce control signals which are presented to the user. Control system responsiveness is controlled by adjusting the lengths of the moving average time windows. A phase-locked loop is closed around each control signal and is used to track the shifting frequencies of the control signals. The user is able to sense and control changes in the magnitude and frequency of the control signals in the control of the device.

Abstract: A diagnostic and therapeutic instrument for use in the treatment of living organisms is provided including a sensor for detecting magnetic fields emanating from the living organism. The sensor is located proximate to the organism and is formed from a ferromagnetic core surrounded by a multi-turn fine wire coil. The sensor is coupled to signal processing which amplifies a signal from the sensor and filters out portions of the signal which represent background magnetic fields emanating from other sources. The signal from the sensor is utilizable to detect abnormalities in the field emanating from the organism indicative of the organism's well-being. The signal can also be utilized to excite a magnetic field radiator which outputs a field complementary to the field emanating from the organism.

Abstract: Circuit arrangement for the processing of physiological measurement signals. In a known circuit arrangement, each one of a plurality of electrodes for picking up physiological measurement signals connects with a first input connection of an input amplifier associated with the pertinent electrodes; the input amplifiers connect, at their respective second input connections, with a common reference potential connection. To check the functional capability of the input amplifiers, a calibration pulse generator connects on the output side with one of the electrodes and the reference potential connection. In addition, to check the electrodes (1, 2, 3) and their supply lines, an additional amplifier (24) connects, by its input, with the reference potential connection (7) and, at its output, with an additional electrode (25) on the patient.

Abstract: A swinging movement in an impact sport activity, such as golf, tennis, baseball or the like, can be monitored to analyze the skill of the player by a biofeedback mechanism which measures electrical impulses created by activated nerves as muscles tense. The mechanism includes a band adapted to be placed about an arm and/or leg of the player, the band includes a pair of electrodes adapted to contact the muscle, differential amplifier means accepting the electrical voltage from the muscle, means for measuring the amplified voltage, and reporting means affording an indication of the results of the swing, such recorder including a sound emitting device, or a transmitter and computer, recording device, or printer. Preferably, the mechanism also includes a device for signalling the point of impact with an object.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mediating a biofeedback session with a human subject in which measurements of electrophysiological quantities are used to control the presentation to the subject of a series of prestored audio-visual sequences of varying levels of clarity resident on a direct-access video storage device. The sequences are real scenes designed to induce a desired psychological state when viewed. As the subject succeeds in altering his physiological parameters, the clarity of the presented image and sound improve as an indication of success. By using the invention, the subject develops a conditioned response to the scenes and is able to control his physiological parameters even when away from the apparatus by remembering the audio-visual sequences used during treatment.

Abstract: A system for altering the states of human consciousness involves the simultaneous application of multiple stimuli, preferable sounds, having differing frequencies and wave forms. The relationship between the frequencies of the several stimuli is exhibited by the equationg=2.sup.n/4 .multidot.fwhere:f=frequency of one stimulus;g=frequency of the other stimuli or stimulus; andn=a positive or negative integer which is different for each other stimulus.

Abstract: A method for interactively entraining a patient's heart rate to a target rate or frequency includes the steps of determining the patient's heart rate through a heart rate monitor and exposing the patient to music having a tempo within approximately one (1) beat of the heart rate. The heart rate is again determined, and if it has changed the tempo of the music is likewise changed in order to be within approximately one (1) beat of the heart rate. The process is continued until the target rate is reached. Vibrational bass tones can be added to enhance the entrainment. Similar methods can be used to entrain respiration rate and fundamental brain wave frequencies, in the latter case using continuous tones of music having repetition frequencies within the entrainment range.

Abstract: It is an object to project an alarm display device from a retracted position in the body of a biological information processing apparatus when it is determined that such a display is necessary according the results of date processed. The alarm display unit is set on the upper part of the apparatus. It is engaged to an enclosure so that there are two states; retracted/stored and projected. This alarm display unit comprises four alarm display devices, set in a line on the tip of the projected alarm display unit, which perform the displays indicating emergency in the case where it is projected. The alarm display unit is automatically projected when emergency has occurred on the subject and the condition is displayed by the alarm display device.

Abstract: A system and method for the operant conditioning of subjects using biofeedback includes means to measure a variable condition, such as posture, which is controllable by the subject. The apparatus sets criteria which, if not met, may result in a negative reinforcement, such as unpleasant audio tone or, if the criteria is met, will reward the subject. The criteria is automatically adjusted, upwards or downwards, in accordance with the subject's history of reaching, or not reaching, the criteria.The device includes a programmed microcomputer whose inputs include digital converters and which simultaneously adjusts the criteria and which controls the stimuli means, such as a tone generator and its speaker.

Abstract: A sleep inducing system is arranged to discriminate a proper time of falling asleep on the basis of respiration cycle detected as a biological signal, and to give to human body a sleep inducing stimulus in response to the discriminated proper time. Sleep induction can be thereby attained with respect to the human body organically and in a relatively short time.

Abstract: An exercise technique having therapeutic effects. In this technique the heart rate of the individual being treated is continuously monitored and the prevailing rate is displayed as he undergoes a conditioning session constituted by successive stress-relaxation cycles forming a wave pattern. In the course of each cycle, the individual is required to raise his level of exertion, as indicated by his perceived heart rate, to a peak representing maximum stress, following which he is required to decrease his exertion until he reaches a lower relaxation limit at which a recovery response takes place. The upper and lower limits are determined by the individual's existing capacity for exercise, and as the individual's condition improves in the course of subsequent conditioning sessions, the limits are raised to effect further improvement.

Abstract: A method for analyzing muscle function including the steps of: (a) locating in a human control subject a predetermined muscle group activatable to produce a given torque; (b) fixing over each of a plurality of individual muscles in the group an electrode adapted to detect myoelectric signals generated therein; (c) activating of the muscles to generate myoelectric signals therein; (d) processing the myoelectric signals to determine a plurality of predetermined values thereof; (e) repeating steps (a), (b), (c) and (d) for each of a plurality of other control subjects; (f) determining a normative range of the predetermined values determined in steps (d) and (e); (g) repeating steps (a), (b), (c) and (d) for a human test subject; and (h) comparing the predetermined values determined in step (g) with the normative range determined in step (f). Dysfunction in the muscle group of the test subject can be determined by comparison of the processed myoelectric signal values.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring and controlling the level of a selected hormone in the circulatory system of an animal. The relationship between the level of a hormone, such as the immune-regulating cylokine IL-1, in the blood stream of an animal and application of sensory stimuli to the animal is determined by periodically taking discrete samples of the animal's blood while the stimuli are applied, measuring the levels of the hormone in the discrete samples, and correlating these levels with the application of the stimuli. Thereafter, the level of the hormone is controlled by applying to the subject those stimuli have been found to produce a desired effect on the level of the hormone in the blood. Biofeedback training and relaxation techniques are used to increase the effectiveness of the method and apparatus.

Abstract: A system for altering the states of human consciousness involves the simultaneous application of multiple stimuli, preferable sounds, having differing frequencies and wave forms. The relationship between the frequencies of the several stimuli is exhibited by the equationg=s.sup.n/4 .multidot.fwhere:f=frequency of one stimulus;g=frequency of the other stimuli of stimulus; andn=a positive or negative integer which is different for each other stimulus.

Abstract: A biofeedback activated orthosis for foot-drop rehabilitation is provided including a lifting mechanism, a control circuit, a muscle activity sensing mechanism, and an electrogoniometer. The lifting mechanism lifts a foot through the swing phase of a gait cycle by way of a drive motor mechanism which pulls a cable passing between a foot brace and a shin brace. The drive motor mechanism allows the cable to unwind upon heel-strike by way of a slip coupling. The drive motor mechanism is controlled by a control circuit which assimilates and processes an incoming electromyographic (EMG) signal from the muscle activity sensing mechanism detected by EMG electrodes placed on the skin above the dorsiflexor muscles of the user. The control circuit also processes a leg position information signal obtained by a radial resistor attached to a knee brace strapped to the knee for sensing the angular position of the lower leg.

Abstract: A muscle function analysis system including a base; a restraint device supported by the base and shaped and arranged to receive and immobilize one portion of a person's body, the one portion retaining a muscle group concurrently activatable to produce a body function; an electrode array adapted for coupling to the muscle group so as to receive myoelectric signals generated by muscle activity therein; and a processing system coupled to the electrode array and adapted to process the myoelectric signals.

Abstract: A system and method for the operant conditioning of subjects using biofeedback includes means to measure a variable condition, such as posture, which is controllable by the subject. The apparatus sets criteria which, if not met, may result in a negative reinforcement, such as unpleasant audio tone or, if the criteria is met, will reward the subject. The criteria is automatically adjusted, upwards or downwards, in accordance with the subject's history of reaching, or not reaching, the criteria.One embodiment is a device for the training of patients with idiopathic scoliosis (curvature of the spine), as a replacement for a brace. The device includes two cables, one about the chest to measure breathing and the other longitudinally about the trunk to measure spine length. The variable lengths of the cables are converted to digital signals by rotary-to-digital converters.

Abstract: A biorhythm modulator, consisting of a sensor for monitoring biorhythmic activity of the body of a user, a circuit for continuously analyzing the biorhythmic activity and producing parameter signals based upon a biorhythmic activity, a circuit for generating selectable sound-code pattern signals, a central processing unit (CPU) connected to receive signals from both the activity characteristic parameters producing circuit and the selected sound patterns generating circuit, and to feed the signals of the parameters and patterns to a sound pattern synthesizer for producing music-like sound pattern signals, transduceable into audible music-like patterns, and having a rhythm which is non-identical to the rhythm of the biorhythmic activity. A method for modulating biorhythmic activity is also described.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for displaying and either inhibiting or promoting selected bioelectrical frequencies emitted by a living organism. The method includes the steps of detecting an analog bioelectrical signal, converting the signal to discrete digital signals representing corresponding frequencies and numerically analyzing the digital signals to determine the different bioelectrical frequencies emitted by the organism. Furthermore, a threshold amplitude associated with a selected digital signal can be established an auditory or visual signal can be sent to the organism to indicate whether the bioelectrical frequency under study is within or outside the threshold amplitude. With this information the organism can be taught to inhibit or facilitate the bioelectrical frequency.

Abstract: A rhythmic biofeedback technique for inducing relaxation to counteract the adverse physiological and psychological effects of chronic stress on an individual. In this technique, the heart beat of the individual being treated is continuously monitored and the prevailing rate is displayed to him as he undergoes a rhythmic conditioning session constituted by successive exercise-relaxation cycles extending for a predetermined period. In the course of each cycle, the individual is required to raise his level of exertion, as indicated by his perceived heart beat rate, to a peak representing an established safe upper limit, following which he is required to decrease his exertion until he reaches a lower limit at which a recovery relaxation response takes place. The upper and lower limits are determined by the individual's existing capacity for exercise and define his target heart rate zone.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the control and prevention of bruxing (nocturnal teeth grinding) which comprises a sound generating means affixed to the jaw of the user, an electronic control means to "read" electrical impedance variations within said sound generating means caused by bruxing and to activate an alarm when bruxing occurs. Said apparatus utilizes the principle of bone conduction wherein sonic loading of said sound generating means differs between the open-jaw and the closed-jaw states. The alarm develops a conditioned reflex in the user such that after the first few alarms incident to bruxing the user does not awaken but merely reacts by relaxing the jaw when the alarm occurs.

Abstract: A visual and auditory biofeedback system instructs patients in proper techniques of inhalation to administer aerosol drugs with Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) devices. The system displays desired respiratory parameters along with real time performance with computer related technology means. Optimal performance parameters suited to individual patient needs may be generated. Suitable respiratory flow transducer means is used to generate air volume signals in real time, and suitable electronic switching means is used to indicate MDI activation in real time. Optional auditory incentive means are provided. Optional plus and minus error limits of acceptable performance are provided.The system thus provides visual and auditory biofeedback incentives to improve patient or student performance to mechanical prescription parameters defined by the physician or instructor. Performance deficiency and performance enhancement indicators may be optionally used, both to enhance and to quality control performance.

Abstract: An apparatus for the infrared heating and warming of post-anesthetic surgical patients is disclosed. The system includes a plurality of infrared heat lamps controlled by plural patient temperature sensors in a closed-loop control system for providing safe, controlled warming of a patient following anesthesia and surgery. Signals from the temperature sensors are averaged and compared against an average temperature setpoint to provide control signals for the heat lamp control network. Low and high temperature alarms are provided for patient safety.

Abstract: The invention measures the electrical signals at the microvolt level emitted from the masseteric (jaw) muscle when bruxism occurs. The apparatus detects electrical signal impulses from electrodes on a transducer probe located within one of the patient's ear channels and transmits the detected signals to an amplifier. in one embodiment, a circuit converts the signal information into an audible tone. The tone provides the immediate knowledge of the bruxism which leads to controlling of the action. The apparatus may be worn inconspicuously during the day and without discomfort while asleep for sleep interruption feedback.

Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for displaying and either inhibiting or promoting selected bioelectrical frequencies emitted by a living organism. The method includes the steps of detecting an analog bioelectrical signal, converting the signal to discrete digital signals representing corresponding frequencies and numerically analyzing the digital signals to determine the different bioelectrical frequencies emitted by the organism. Furthermore, a threshold amplitude associated with a selected digital signal can be established an auditory or visual signal can be sent to the organism to indicate whether the bioelectrical frequency under study is within or outside the threshold amplitude. With this information the organism can be taught to inhibit or facilitate the bioelectrical frequency.

Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring mental tension comprises a first measuring unit for measuring a periodic wave related to a contraction activity of the heart of a person to be monitored; a detecting unit for detecting special waves which periodically appear in the periodic wave measured by the first measuring unit; a second measuring unit for measuring the interval at which the special wave are generated; a first processor for providing, as tension index values, a mean value of an interval train of the special waves and the magnitude of a respiration component of the fluctuation of the interval train; and a display unit for displaying the resulting tension index values.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus includes a processor for performing various information processing operations in accordance with an instruction from an operator, a bioinformation sensor for detecting a mental condition of the operator, and an output unit for outputting corresponding information to the operator based on the detected mental condition. The operator is relaxed by the information output from the output unit.

Abstract: A device and method are provided for bio-electric monitoring apparatus to cancel bio-electric noise on the body of a patient. The device comprises a plurality of monitoring electrodes for reception of bio-electric signals from the body, each monitoring electrode having a conductive lead and a surrounding shield. The device further has a driving electrode for transmission of a correction voltage to the body. The driving electrode has a conductive lead and a surrounding shield. The device has a signal averager with an input and an output. The monitoring electrode leads are connected to the input of the signal averager. An amplifier is connected to the output of the signal averager which has its output connected to the driving electrode lead to provide the correction voltage. The shield around the driving electrode lead is conductively connected to the output of the amplifier.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the control and prevention of bruxing (nocturnal teeth grinding) which comprises a sound generating means affixed to one area of the face of the user, a sound receiving means affixed to another area of the face, and an electronic control means to "read" signals from said sound receiver and to activate an alarm when bruxing occurs. Said apparatus utilizes the principle of bone conduction whereby the sonic vibrations from said second generator are transmitted to said sound receiver bottom when the jaw of the user is closed than when it is open. The alarm develops a conditioned reflex in the user such that after the first few alarms incident to bruxing the user does not awaken but merely reacts by relaxing the jaw when the alarm occurs.

Abstract: Methods for the treatment of obesity, overweight, compulsive overeating, emotional overeating, binge eating, bulimia and anorexia comprises the steps of monitoring physiological parameters in the esophageal and/or gastrointestinal tract which are associated with gastric relaxation, gastric filling, gastric contractions, gastric secretions, and gastric emptying. The measurement are transmitted either directly to a receiver or via radiotelemetry to a receiver. The receiver has a data processor associated therewith, and the data processor produces audio and/or visual feedback for the person under treatment to hear and/or see. This feedback is used for purposes of teaching behavior modification and other psychotherapeutic purposes. In the most simple form of the invention, a warning sound is generated by the data processor indicating when sufficient food has been ingested.

Abstract: A biofeedback therapy system in which an individual during a training run in stress control is intermittently subjected to stress-inducing stimuli while one of his physiologic functions is being continuously monitored. The individual is able to observe the effect of the stimuli on a stress-graduated tripartite scale, making it possible for the individual to regulate the function being monitored. The scale takes the form of three series of light indicators, the first being graduated in gross steps, the second in increments of a gross step, and the third in fractions of one increment, whereby the readout accurately reflects the prevailing stress level. The tripartite scale is provided with adjustable markers which can be set on the scale to present the stress level at the time a training run is commenced so that subsequent changes in stress level are seen as deviations from the set point.

Abstract: Excitation of the skeletal musculature of a subject is measured by an electromyogram (EMG), processed and applied to control application to the musculature of electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) signals proportional to the electrical nerve impulses. The invention is useful for re-education and/or amplification of muscular control where motor control has suffered impairment.

Abstract: A new method of learning by use of a machine which interacts with the user to guide the user through a programmed series of questions. The system is based on finding trouble spots in the users logic or feelings by observing the users skin response to questions. The computer will ask the user a question. The machine measures the users skin resistance in response to the question and displays the response to the user. The user enters a response to the question on the computer keyboard based on the response he observes in his skin resistance which tells him how he is reacting to the question. The computer selects the next question based on his answer to the previous question and thus guides the user through a programmed series of questions. If troubled areas are uncovered the computer jumps to subroutines to help with that problem before moving on to the next step in the programmed series of questions.

Abstract: A system for controlling muscular responses in living beings utilizes electrical stimulation of the muscle and acoustic monitoring of muscle performance. In one aspect, muscle functioning during a physical activity can be monitored acoustically, and the resulting signal compared against predetermined signal characteristics. Deviation of the muscle function from the desired characteristic can be corrected by applying a responsive electrical signal. Additionally, the response of a muscle to electrical stimulation can be monitored acoustically and an appropriate responsive correction to the electric signal, such as in its amplitude, frequency, spectral composition, duty cycle, can be made. In this manner, the invention permits control of muscle functions in dynamic and static states.

Abstract: A method and system for providing as a biofeedback signal a visual display showing kinesthetic physical movement to enable a subject to produce desired thought patterns. Sensors or electrodes are connected to the subject at one or more topological locations. The signals detected by the sensors are input to a conventional EEG device. The EEG output is processed into one or more analog voltage signals. These analog signals are input to a computer which generates a video display and audio if desired. The image on the display depicts kinesthetic physical movement as a function of the analog voltage.

Abstract: A biofeedback system to train an exerciser while he carries out athletic activity in which his arm or feet members move rhythmically, the system translating this movement into an audible musical rhythm which makes it possible for the exerciser to being his activity into harmony with a musical rhythm conducive to optimal conditions of exercise. The system includes a compact electronic music synthesizer having a settable rhythm section, the output of the system being fed to a headset worn by the exerciser so that the music heard by the exerciser has a beat determined by the setting. The arm or feet members having sensors attached thereto which yield pulses whose rate is determined by the movement of these members, the pulses being applied to the rhythm section to control the beat setting of the music so that it is in synchronism with the movement of the members.

Abstract: An article of wearing apparel, to be worn on the upper body of a subject, includes a portion for covering the back of the subject. Sensors for sensing the changes in posture of the subject and providing electrical signals proportional to the degree of change in posture are removably mounted on the portion for covering the back of the subject. Electronic circuitry analyzes the electrical signals to provide an output, which can be sensed by the subject, when the posture of the subject deviates from a pre-set postural position by a predetermined amount. The electronic circuit is disposed in a carrier which is also removably mounted from the article of clothing apparel.

Abstract: An improved method and means for bio-feedback training of living organisms, utilizing one or more electro-neuro signals to produce tactile sensations on the skin of the organism. One or more electrical characteristics of such electro-neuro signals are responsive to a particular condition of the organism which is detectable in a physiological signal produced by the organism at a selected location on its body. The tactile sensation experienced by the organism is, thus, a function of the detected condition, and the organism can learn to alter such condition by concentrating on increasing or inhibiting the tactile sensation.

Abstract: An exercise device, such as a exercise bicycle, is connected to a speed sensor indicating activity level, e.g. speed of the bicycle. The activity level signal, along with a heart rate signal, are provided to a video game, such as a Pac-man type video game. The game monitors the heart rate of the exerciser. If the heart rate falls outside preset minimum or maximum limits, a certain action occurs in the game, such as an increase in speed or skill level of the opposition. In the Pac-man type game for example, should the heart rate fall below the desired workout rate, the villain (the goblin) would move at a speed faster than the players' speed, putting the player at a disadvantage. The player would respond by increasing his level of physical activity, thereby increasing the heart rate until it exceeds the minimum aerobic level required, at which time the villain's speed would return to its normal level.

Abstract: An arrangement for rewarding tongue-retraction exercise therapy performed by swallowing-impaired surgical and disease patients is disclosed. The achieved therapy includes execution of an oral sucking act (as opposed to lung originated suction) in combination with provision of a patient communicated incentive feedback signal measurement of the sucking act pressures --pressures below atmospheric pressure. The patient communication includes a visual bar graph related display and in the disclosed apparatus is provided with a plurality of four scale ranges in order to accommodate patients of varying swallowing act impairment. The achieved base of tongue strengthening exercise has been found to enable swallowing recovery in weeks in lieu of the expected months (or never) that is normally seen in severely impaired surgical or disease patients. A discussion of the swallowing act and its impairment behavior is included.