Abstract: A kinematic system is described. The kinematic system includes a kinematic device for attachment to a subject's body part. The kinematic device projects a light line, and a movement of the light line is used to evaluate a movement, posture, or balance of the subject.

Abstract: A cylindrical gear ring assembly is provided for use as a decorative wearable ornamental device useable as a ring or other piece of jewelry, a toy, and a therapy tool, and more specifically to a ring with a rotatable mechanism comprising movable cylinders which rotate against gear mechanisms and method of using the same.

Abstract: An aid is disclosed for a trainer teaching a student motor skills. A magnetically-inert shield receives a magnetically-inert screen fixed to the front side thereof. A token has a magnetically-attractive material, and a token controller has a first magnet, such that the token controller may be used to move the token around on the screen when the token controller is pressed up against the rear side of the shield. One of the screens may include at least one raised portion raised off of the front surface of the screen a distance sufficient to receive the token thereunder. Various activities and games may be played with the aid, revolving primarily about the student trying to grasp a token that is moved by the trainer about the screen.

Abstract: A new apparatus, system and method for fall prevention training is provided that delivers, studies and analyzes the biomechanics of a disturbance event, such as a slip or trip incident, so that an appropriate response can be executed by the person to reduce or eliminate the number of falls experienced. The apparatus includes a platform that delivers a disturbance event in less than about 500 ms and preferably in the range of about 100 ms to about 200 ms. The method includes a unique protocol for fall prevention training using the apparatus. The disturbance event can create instability in the joint of the individual. An individual's walking gait can be monitored with the portions thereof detected. A disturbance event can be triggered when a given portion of the walking gait is detected. Also, the disturbance even can be triggered manually, at preset intervals or according to preset script.

Abstract: A method is generally described which includes providing training by altering a user's motional response includes directing a user to perform specified motions in accordance with a training sequence and detecting the user's motions, by a feedback sensor device, the motions associated with the user. The method also includes generating, by the control program, control data based on the data representative of the detected motions and the training sequence. The control program is configured to receive data representative of the detected motions and to receive the training sequence. The control program has a control algorithm configured to generate control data based on the data representative of the detected motions and the information. Further, the method includes running the control program by a controller configured to output control signals based on the control data.

Abstract: This document discusses, among other things, method and apparatus for a non-nutritive suck (NNS) entrainment pulse generator. An embodiment includes a valve assembly in communication with a first pressure and a second pressure to change a pressure of a baglet. A controller can switch the valve assembly to selectively couple the first and second pressures to the baglet to produce a series of pressure pulses within the baglet. In an embodiment, the pulse generator is substantially self-contained. In an embodiment, the valve assembly includes a reciprocating piston assembly to generate the series of pressure pulses. In an embodiment, the NNS entrainment pulse generator is portable.

Abstract: A proprioceptive device for improving proprioceptive balance in a person is provided. The proprioceptive device includes an elastic band which is expandable for releasably engaging and fitting snugly around a shoe. The proprioceptive device also includes a pair of instability inducing proprioception features which are carried by the band. The proprioceptive features are spaced from one another in a longitudinal direction for inducing lateral and longitudinal instability while allowing the person to walk with a heel to toe gait.

Abstract: A balance board including a standing platform connected to a pivot ball. The standing platform provides an area for a subject to stand and can be moved by a set of deflector actuators. The deflector actuators can move the platform in both the lateral and vertical directions. A braking assembly is connected to the ball and the braking assembly increases or decreases rotation resistance to the ball. When resistance is increased to the ball, resistance to rotation for the platform is increased.

Abstract: The system allows training and qualification of a user performing a skill-related training exercise involving body motion in a workspace. A training environment is selected through a computer apparatus, and variables, parameters and controls of the training environment and the training exercise are adjusted. Use of an input device by the user is monitored. The 3D angles and spatial coordinates of reference points related to the input device are monitored through a detection device. A simulated 3D dynamic environment reflecting effects caused by actions performed by the user on objects is computed in real time as a function of the training environment selected. Images of the simulated 3D dynamic environment in real time are generated on a display device viewable by the user as a function of a computed organ of vision-object relation. Data indicative of the actions performed by the user and the effects of the actions are recorded and user qualification is set as a function of the recorded data.

Abstract: A device measuring the control of the individual on the hand and eye coordination and the control of the individual on the hand and arm muscles during the response the individual gives after he/she senses the stimulus visually, in the area of measurement and evaluation of the psychomotor and cognitive processes.

Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is directed to an educational game comprising: a structure rotating around a vertical axis; a plurality of frames, each connected to the structure, each of the frames having a geometrical form, each of the frames having a basket suspended therefrom; and a plurality of bricks, each having a form corresponding to the geometrical form of one of the frames. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the bricks has a prism form. According to one embodiment of the invention, the bricks are of polyhedron form. The structure may comprise a central pole on which the baskets hang, each via a rod. A base may be employed for holding the central pole upright.

Abstract: The exercise assisting system includes: a display device including a display screen displaying an image to a user; a comparison image storing unit storing a comparison image representing an image of an exerciser performing a predetermined exercise; a comparison image display unit displaying the comparison image stored in the storing unit on the screen; a mirror image displaying means displaying a mirror image of the user so as to overlap the comparison image; a characteristic amount extraction unit detecting positions of sampling points of a body of the user and calculating a characteristic amount representing a posture of the user based on the position; a posture estimation unit comparing the characteristic amount from the extraction unit with a criterion amount representing a posture of the exerciser and estimating a deviation between postures of the user and the exerciser; and a presentation unit presenting an estimation result of the estimation unit.

Abstract: A center of gravity shifting training system includes a display device having a display screen, a measurement device configured to measure a center of gravity position of the user, and a control device. The control device has a training mode and a setting mode of preparing setting data indicating a position of the target image in the display screen. In the setting mode, the control device performs estimation of a deviation of the center of gravity position based on the center of gravity position measured, and prepares the setting data indicating the position of the target image according to a result of the estimation. In the training mode, the control device displays the operation image on the screen in accordance with the center of gravity position measured, and displays the target image on the screen based on the setting data prepared through the setting mode.

Abstract: There is disclosed a process for motor learning, for teaching motion, or for rehabilitation of a student, the student having a motor sensory system. Plural transducers may be coupled around at least one joint of a student, the transducers for providing kinesthetic sensations to the student through its motor sensory system. Tactile control signals may be provided to control operation of the transducers to guide motions of the student.

Abstract: A motor coordination testing device is disclosed. The motor coordination testing device includes a signal generator and a signal retrieving device. The signal generator includes a first electronic protractor and a first support rotatably coupled with the first electronic protractor. The signal retrieving device is electrically connected to the signal generator.

Abstract: A modular educational device includes primary and secondary modular boundary segments each having an outer shell extending to terminate at two socket ends, a plurality of modular plug-ended connectors each having two plug ends configured to mate with the corresponding ones of primary and secondary socket ends so as to enable the primary and secondary outer shell to form a loop-shaped structure that encircles an enclosed space of a certain geometric shape, and a modular support stand having a base and a pair of jaws which extend uprightly from the base and which are spaced apart from each other by a fitting space for accommodating a gripped region of the primary modular boundary segment so as to enable the loop-shaped structure to be stood on a surface.

Abstract: A sole for a shoe designed to increase an instability upon striking the ground. The sole extends from a rear heel region via a metatarsal region to a front forefoot region. In a region of a gait line, the sole includes an instability region which substantially follows a contour of the gait line and extends at least in sections in a longitudinal direction of the sole. A bulk modulus is increased compared to at least one of a medial outer region and a lateral outer region of the sole adjacent to the instability region, and/or, a sole thickness is increased compared to at least one of the medial outer region and the lateral outer region of the sole adjacent to the instability region so as to provide an uneven sole contour perpendicular to a running direction.

Abstract: A system for managing physical training includes: a goal achievement planning module establishing a training goal and a time schedule for a physical training participant on the basis of a profile reflecting physical characteristics of the physical training participant; a section creation module separately creating training items on a section basis according to the training goal and the time schedule of the physical training participant with reference to a predetermined standard; and a management contents creation module creating contents required to manage the physical training of the physical training participant on the basis of physical measurements previously established by the goal achievement planning module and the section creation module and various physical measurements measured from sensors attached to the physical training participant in real-time.

Abstract: A device for measuring the manual dexterity of a subject comprising a central processing unit, a display, storage means, data-entry means and software programming designed to gather the manual dexterity data of a subject is disclosed together with methods of use thereof.

Abstract: An apparatus is described that allows a table to be turned upside down so that a toddler can use the upright legs as grips and the horizontal cross support beams as obstacles to master the art of stepping over this obstacle height of the cross support beams. Once the art of stepping is mastered, the table is flipped upright to function as a table again. Several adjustments are added to a table so that the height of the cross support beams and length of the legs can be adjusted to provide a range of mastering possibilities when in the upside down position. When flipped upright, the surface of the table can have adjustable to have uniform height or a top that slants.

Abstract: Methods and equipment to improve the visual ability of a subject during athletic activities are provided. One such method includes configuring a sporting object to visually approximate the appearance of a background or configuring a background to visually approximate the appearance of a sporting object. A subject may then train using the sporting object visually in front of the low contrast background. A background where the visual appearance of the background comprises at least one depiction of the sporting object may be used. A subject may then train using the sporting object visually in front of the background.

Abstract: A new apparatus, system and method for fall prevention training is provided that delivers, studies and analyzes the biomechanics of a disturbance event, such as a slip or trip incident, so that an appropriate response can be executed by the person to reduce or eliminate the number of falls experienced. The apparatus includes a platform that delivers a disturbance event in less than about 500 ms and preferably in the range of about 100 ms to about 200 ms. The method includes a unique protocol for fall prevention training using the apparatus. The disturbance event can create instability in the joint of the individual. An individual's walking gait can be monitored with the portions thereof detected. A disturbance event can be triggered when a given portion of the walking gait is detected. Also, the disturbance even can be triggered manually, at preset intervals or according to preset script.

Abstract: System and method for improving tactile sensitivity and precision/accuracy of motor control of the hand of a subject. A joystick is configured to provide commands to a computing device. The joystick includes a base, shaft, and a textured surface with a specified level of bumpiness. A computer-implemented exercise is executed, including presenting stimuli, including at least one target, to the subject via a computer display. The subject is required to respond to the stimuli via the joystick within a specified duration, including using the joystick to move a cursor to the target, and, upon reaching the target, disengage from the joystick. The subject's response to the stimuli is recorded, and a determination made regarding whether the subject responded correctly. The duration is modified based on whether the subject responded correctly to the stimuli. The presenting, requiring, recording, determining, and modifying are repeated a plurality of times in an iterative manner.

Abstract: A trainer for a martial artist or boxer is provided comprising a container, a movable element positioned within container and a handle for grasping the trainer. The movable element produces an audible signal when it strikes a forward surface of the container and a muted audible signal or no audible signal when it strikes a rearward surface of the container.

Abstract: A training device is described for perfecting the art of forcibly opening a door in an emergency. The training device has a frame and a door placed in the frame. A dead bolt is mounted in the door and protrudes from the door in a locked position relative to the frame. A vise is attached to the frame. The vise has a movable jaw mounted on a block and a stationary jaw, and means for tightening the movable jaw against the dead bolt. The dead bolt protrudes from the door between the stationary and movable jaw. A method of using the training device causes the door to pivot and the dead bolt to move off of the vise, thus simulating an actual forced opening.

Abstract: One system embodiment includes providing a number of sensors for monitoring an individual in performing a number of tasks from a list of tasks to be completed, the number of tasks each including, an associated number of steps to be completed by the individual, monitoring the performance of a task from the list by using at least one of the number of sensors, providing the individual with a number of step instruction prompts associated with the steps of the task, and obtaining task performance information corresponding to the performance of the task by the individual. The task performance information includes step prompt information including the number of step instruction prompts provided during performance of the task, sensor data from the at least one of the number of sensors, and adjusting the list of tasks to be completed based on the task performance information of the task.

Abstract: Disclosed are manipulator devices for use in learning games, and kits utilizing the same. The manipulator devices my be a substantially elongated and flat body formed of flexible material and at least partially stuffed to resemble a bean bag. The body is adapted to be capable of manipulation between an unfolded position and a folded position, where the folded position conceals an identifiable attribute of the device selected from the group consisting of a number or a symbol. The kits may include three or more manipulator devices each having at least two attributes identifiable by children and allowing them to associate the plurality of devices into subsets according to shared types of these attributes.

Abstract: A method for developing fine motor skills of the hand, the method having the steps of manufacturing a fine-motor-skills-of-the-hand development workbook system that is made up of more than one workbook, wherein substantially all of the workbook pages are construction paper, and each of the workbooks are respectively made up of distinct printed subject matter and patterns; printing subject matter and patterns on each of the construction-paper pages that are to be inserted into each of the respective workbooks; inserting and binding the pre-printed construction-paper pages into each of the system's respective workbooks; and identifying and visually displaying each of the system's workbooks as having relatively different levels of complexity in the development of fine motor skills of the hand.

Abstract: A casting training aid and method of use is disclosed, including a casting target board having a plurality of target holes, with a front side depicting an aquatic scene. The aquatic scene can depict an above-water scene, an underwater scene, and/or a water body surface. The casting training aid can also include at least one obstruction mounted on the target board and/or near target holes. This aid allows a user having a rod, line, and lure or simulated lure to practice casting at the casting training aid in order to improve the user's skill of placing the lure near the fishing target. Scores can be given for engaging a target hole with a lure, with more difficult targets yielding more points. This training aid can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels indoors or out, in a pool, lake or where ever, while improving an individual's casting skills.

Abstract: A potty training device for use on toilets has a target releasably attached to a bent rod which is pivotally attached to a clamping means. The clamping means clamps onto a rim of a bowl. When an annular seat is lowered, it depresses a button which pivots the rod from the center of the bowl towards its side. When the annular seat is raised, the button is released and the rod rotates so as to bring the target towards the center of the bowl.

Abstract: At least an expiratory period during which a user is instructed to take an expiratory action as a respiratory action and an inspiratory period during which the user is instructed to take an inspiratory action as the respiratory action are set. One of enlargement and reduction of a first object is performed during the expiratory period, and the other of the enlargement and the reduction of the first object is performed during the inspiratory period, the first object representing a loop path. During the expiratory period, a second object is caused to move along and complete one full circuit of the path in a time from a beginning to an end of the expiratory period, and during the inspiratory period, the second object is caused to move along and complete one full circuit of the path in a time from a beginning to an end of the inspiratory period.

Abstract: A system and method for training a boxer is provided that includes a mat having a top surface with at least one series of adjacent positional sections identified sequentially on the top surface, at least one of a left foot and right foot placement marker situated in each positional section, and an orchestrated sequence of foot placements in the respective positional sections for providing boxing training instruction. In addition, the sequence can further include additional body portion movements and/or positions to be executed in relation to the left or right foot placements in the positional sections.

Abstract: A training device for nasal hygiene comprises a facial tissue sheet; where the facial tissue sheet has a first side, and where the facial tissue sheet also has a second side having an opposing planar relationship to the first side. A first-side tissue graphic is visible on the first side of the facial tissue sheet. The first-side tissue graphic comprises a permanent graphic and/or an active graphic. In addition, the first-side tissue graphic is a training mark.

Abstract: Disclosed is a learning assessment method and device using a virtual tutor. The device comprises at least one action acquisition module, a virtual tutor synthesis module, and a learning assessment module. The method captures and analyzes a first and a second action-feature for a first and a second targets respectively, and constructs an intrinsic model of the second target based on a reference data of the second target. A virtual tutor is synthesized by applying the first action-feature to the intrinsic model such that the virtual tutor exhibits the intrinsic characteristics of the second target but performs a synthesized action-feature similar to the first action-feature. The method then assesses the difference between the synthesized action-feature and the second action-feature.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed that automatically interject brain activations into video imaging activities or other activities of daily living. During a video game, for example, an interrupt causes a pause in the game and a commencement of an activity involving but not limited to bilateral portions of the body, the peripheral vision of the game-player, and a visual pursuit-type and saccadic-type action on the video screen. Alternatively, the brain activation can be merged into the content of the video game so as to be generally indistinguishable to the user. Automatic feedback from the system encourages more frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be diminished and less frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be enhanced. The combination of events in the activity is believed to engage the frontal lobes of the brain as well as other brain structures and stimulate brain health.

Abstract: A modular educational device includes primary and secondary modular boundary segments each having an outer shell extending to terminate at two socket ends, a plurality of modular plug-ended connectors each having two plug ends configured to mate with the corresponding ones of primary and secondary socket ends so as to enable the primary and secondary outer shell to form a loop-shaped structure that encircles an enclosed space of a certain geometric shape, and a modular support stand having a base and a pair of jaws which extend uprightly from the base and which are spaced apart from each other by a fitting space for accommodating a gripped region of the primary modular boundary segment so as to enable the loop-shaped structure to be stood on a surface.

Abstract: A method for enhancing attention and concentration includes a step of preparing a target of different purposes; a step of choosing one of the purposes of the target; a step of watching the target; a step of blocking the sight between the tester and the target, and a step of moving tester's limbs to complete commands of the target.

Abstract: A new apparatus, system and method for fall prevention training is provided that delivers, studies and analyzes the biomechanics of a disturbance event, such as a slip or trip incident, so that an appropriate response can be executed by the person to reduce or eliminate the number of falls experienced. The apparatus includes a platform that delivers a disturbance event in less than about 500 ms and preferably in the range of about 100 ms to about 200 ms. The method includes a unique protocol for fall prevention training using the apparatus.

Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise apparatus and method for using the exercise apparatus to improve hand-eye coordination, body coordination, and peripheral vision. The exercise apparatus has a horizontal member placed parallel to a floor and above a user. There are a plurality of target objects tethered to said horizontal member via a tether from each target object to the horizontal member. The plurality of target objects hang down from the horizontal member and are spaced along the horizontal member with enough space between tethers to permit each of said plurality of target objects to swing independently from rest of the target objects. To enhance a user's physical abilities, the user sets at least two of the target objects in motion and keeps the target objects in motion by hitting the target objects appropriately. The user may also avoid the moving target objects by moving the user's body appropriately.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a mobile device receives previous route traversal information for a route from a server. During a subsequent traversal of the route, the mobile device determines comparative split information for the subsequent traversal by reference to the previous route traversal information and presents the comparative split information during traversal of the route.

Abstract: A motion coordination operation device is provided, which includes a movement information input unit inputting movement information supplied from respective sensor devices mounted on a plurality of users; and an operation unit operating coordination information that indicates the synchronization of motions of bodies or parts of the bodies of the plurality of users from the input movement information from the respective sensor devices, and generating control information for feedback outputs for the users based on the coordination information.

Abstract: Disclosed is a balance training apparatus for applying an exercise load to a subject, which comprises a seat adapted to allow the subject to sit thereon, a rocking mechanism for rockingly moving the seat, and a phase changer. The rocking mechanism includes a plurality of converters adapted to receive a driving force transmitted from a common driving source so as to operate in an interlocked relationship with each other, and convert the driving force from the driving source to a rocking motion having movement directions intersecting with each other. The phase changer is adapted to selectively connect and disconnect the transmission of the driving force to first converter consisting of a part of the plurality of converter, so as to change a phase relationship in rocking motion between the first converter, and second converter consisting of the rest of the plurality of converter.

Abstract: A new system and method for human performance development is disclosed comprising a brain based model for early childhood development, and called the directionality method. It is a neurosensory training system for developing the essential foundation skills for learning and movement. Directionality refers to the profound effect gravity has on human performance. The method is designed to unlock each child's foundation wiring for learning and movement.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing aspects of how a child learns includes a toy-like base having upstanding pegs. The child is encouraged to place donut shaped hand pieces onto the pegs. The hand pieces test the ability of the child to discriminate between different colors, and separately between different textures and different shapes and also tests the child's abilities in perception and creativity. The base also is able to test the child's ability to discern and copy tones and rhythms. Information of the child's performance is automatically collected within the apparatus and then compared with a normative baseline. Remediation focuses on activities related to the learning channels where the child is least astute and periodic retesting measures the ability of the child to improve in those channels to enable improvement of remediation approaches.

Abstract: The present invention provides physicians access to formulary data as well as important clinical and practice management information at the point of care on easy-to-use handheld electronic devices. The invention also provides a method for distributing medical data to medical personnel. The method comprises the steps of storing medical data in a database and periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities. The invention also provides a computer readable memory storing executable instructions for execution by a computer system such that the computer system functions in a specified manner. The instructions comprise instructions for storing medical data in a database, and instructions for periodically communicating selected medical data between the database and an electronic device to establish a medical data distribution system subsidized by sponsoring entities.

Abstract: Method are provided for evaluating reaction time data obtained from a stimulus-response testing system. One exemplary method comprises: obtaining reaction time data, the reaction time data comprising a plurality of reaction times, each reaction time comprising an estimate of a time required for a subject to respond to a corresponding stimulus event; assigning a weight to each reaction time in the reaction time data in accordance with a weighting function, the weighting function comprising a rule that defines a mapping between reaction times and corresponding weights; and determining a weighted reaction time metric based at least in part on a sum of the weights assigned to the reaction times in the reaction time data.

Abstract: A runners training device is presented that holds a runners arm in the correct position for correct running form. The invention consists of a short bar made from metal or plastic plus two closeable sleeves that fit over the upper and lower arms. When attached, the bar holds the runners elbows at the correct angle and restrains the elbow during the running exercise.

Abstract: Invention uses fitness, balance, and coordination improvement methods using a adjustable swing arm(s) and swivel which will suspend attached activity specific tethers and targets. Said invention's horizontal arms can be manipulated easily and set securely. The most basic setup enables one participant to successfully hit a target more than once because target always returns to its starting point. The preferred embodiment of the original invention with its utility improvements provides multiple targets to be suspended and manipulated by one or more individuals with targets and or tossed objects returning to their starting points. This multiple suspended tether system adds on to the previous established research showing that using just the dominant hand to successfully hit a target improved coordination and balance of participants. Inspiration for the Invention Utility Improvements The original invention filled the need for those individuals that are bedridden to exercise in bed.

Abstract: A training system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The training system includes a method of training an athlete to use an article of footwear with a shape correcting member to perform various types of skills including passing a ball. The method can be implemented on a computer, mobile device or as an instruction booklet. The training system provides a total training solution for an athlete that is designed to enhance specific athletic skills.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of obtaining information regarding an individual's environment using a programmable device. The first step of the method is sensing a psychomotor behavioral element of an activity engaged by the individual. The type of activity engaged by the individual can be any sensible activity under the sun, including breathing, thinking, generating heat, etc. The next step in the inventive method is determining the preferred modalities of the individual based on the psychomotor behavioral element of the activity engaged by the individual. Provided herein are calculations used for determining the preferred modalities of the individual based on the psychomotor behavioral element of the activity. In the present context, the preferred modalities are the semi-conscious or nonconscious desires of the individual, indicated by nonconscious actions, to experience her environment in a specific manner. The information obtained by the inventive method can be used in several ways.