Abstract: A feedback device determines when a person has placed enough weight upon his/her foot to safely take the next step, and then communicate that information to the person via a haptic device on the person's ankle or an audio, visual and/or vibration feedback display on an application on the person's smart phone. Three or more sensors in an insole between the person's foot and shoe determine the force of the person's leg. The force data is sent to a microprocessor where the force data is processed and compared with a baseline. If the processed data exceeds the baseline, the microprocessor will activate the haptic device on the person's ankle to vibrate and/or transmit the processed data through a wireless communications device to an application on a smart phone to activate an audio, visual and/or vibration feedback display on the application. The person will then safely take the next step.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper member and a sole structure, with a sensor system connected to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors that are configured for detecting forces exerted by a user's foot on the sensor. The sensor system also includes a port that is configured to receive a module to place the module in communication with the sensors. The port includes a housing with a chamber configured to receive the module and an interface engaged with the housing and having at least one electrical contact exposed to the chamber. Additional retaining structure and interface structure may be included.

Abstract: A device for monitoring human feet can include: a transmissive sheet configured to bear at least 90 kg supported at a height of no more than 23 cm, and a foot image capture system below the sheet. An optical image sensor can capture a field of view including at least 250 cm2 of the surface of the sheet. The device can have a central reflective element positioned below the sheet directly above the sensor and two outer mirrors such that two fields of view at least 250 cm2 each can be focused onto the sensor by a lens. Foot sole images can be automatically captured when a patient stands on the device. Images can be transmitted to a database and associated with the patient by analyzing the images for a unique predetermined metric.

Abstract: A method of determining patient follow-up subsequent to an orthopaedic procedure includes determining the number of cycles of use of an orthopaedic joint of the patient. If a predetermined threshold is exceeded, communication with an orthopaedic care provider is initiated. A patient monitoring system is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method and a device for collecting data for posturography comprising a magnetizable body and an acceleration sensor are located on the platform, which magnetizable body and acceleration sensor are connected to a computer by means of an A/D converter. An electromagnet is located under the platform and is attached so as to be displaceable in two axes parallel to the plane of the platform, wherein the electromagnet is connected to an A/D converter and a power supply by means of a circuit, and a time-variable display, which is connected to the A/D converter, and a digital camera which are connected to the computer. By means of the method and the device it is now possible to standardize posturographic measurements, simultaneously detect the acceleration and the position of the platform, and more variably carry out provocations.

Abstract: Systems and methods for diagnosing a user's condition based on his gait. A sensor module with multiple sensors is placed inside a user's shoe and biometric data is gathered from the sensors when the user takes a step or walks. The data is used to generate loops as the various sets of data is plotted against each other. The loops obtained from the data are then compared against stored loops previously obtained. Based on the results of the comparison, the user's condition is diagnosed using predetermined indicators of specific health issues. Using the biometric data and in conjunction with data from various databases, it can be determined whether the user has a specific condition, whether a specific condition is worsening, or whether a specific condition is improving.

Abstract: A sensor system is adapted for use with an article of footwear and includes an insert member including a first layer and a second layer, a port connected to the insert and configured for communication with an electronic module, a plurality of force and/or pressure sensors on the insert member, and a plurality of leads connecting the sensors to the port.

Abstract: The present invention is a system, method, and apparatus that relates to providing a quick measurement the difference, if any, of a person's left and right leg lengths, in order to determine the correct thickness of an orthotic insert for the left and/or right shoes in order to provide correction and alignment of a person's skeletal frame.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a pressure-sensitive mat and a monitoring device are part of a pressure relief compliance system. The pressure-sensitive mat is placed between a seat cushion and a chair. When a user sits on the cushion, the system will monitor the time the person spends applying pressure and will notify a user with an alarm or by other means when the preset sitting limit is reached. Also a novel method for measuring and adjusting the amount time spent applying and releasing pressure. In some embodiments, rather than simply measure time spent applying pressure, the system will allow the user to “buy back” sit time when the user releases pressure. The rate at which the system will credit the user with a “buy back” of sitting time may in some embodiments be directly proportional to the amount of time the user spends performing a pressure release.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for athletic performance monitoring with body synchronization analysis are disclosed. In one example, a first sensor output associated with a movement of an user foot and a second sensor output associated with a movement of an user arm are received, the user arm on a body side opposite the user foot. The first sensor output and the second sensor output are analyzed to identify a degree of synchronization between the movement of a user foot and the movement of a user arm.

Abstract: A force measurement system includes an instrumented treadmill with one or more displaceable components having one or more respective surfaces for receiving one or more respective limbs of the subject, and at least one force transducer. The force measurement system further includes a data processing device configured to receive one or more load signals from the at least one force transducer, to convert the one or more load signals into one or more output load components, and to determine one or more gait parameters for the subject from the one or more output load components; and a sensory output device configured to receive at least one sensory output signal from the data processing device, and to generate at least one of a visual indicator, an audible indicator, and a tactile indicator that is based upon the at least one sensory output signal and provides biofeedback to the subject.

Abstract: A system and a method for estimating the mechanical behavior of human lower limbs is provided. The method includes the following steps: sensing a plurality of foot pressure signals of a user by using a sensor array, the foot pressure signals comprising at least a rearfoot pressure signal and at least a forefoot pressure signal; calculating a temporal sequence of a gait cycle of the user according to the foot pressure signals; calculating a foot reaction force of the user according to the foot pressure signals and a calibration parameter; and calculating a mechanical state of the lower limb joints of the user according to the temporal sequence of the gait cycle and the foot reaction force.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and garment that incorporates sensors that can be used for measuring or monitoring pressure or forces in feet, the stumps of limbs of an amputee that are fitted with prosthetic devices, or any other parts of the body that are subject to forces such as the buttock while seated or when external pressure inducing devices are employed, such as for example, pressure bandages. The invention also relates to a method to monitor or diagnose any foot or limb related activity for recreational, sporting, military or medical reasons and is particularly aimed at the treatment of neuropathic or other degenerating conditions.

Abstract: A gait modulation system including: (a) a sensor device including a sensor adapted for associating with at least one lower limb of the patient, the sensor for transducing at least one parameter related to a gait of the patient, so as to obtain gait data related to the gait, and (b) a muscle stimulator including: (i) an electrical stimulation circuit, the circuit adapted to supply an electrical stimulation output to an electrode array for performing functional electrical stimulation of at least one muscle of the lower limb, and (ii) a microprocessor, operatively connected to the at least one sensor, the microprocessor adapted for: receiving a stream of gait information based on the gait data; processing the gait information, and controlling the stimulation output based on the processing of the gait information, and wherein the microprocessor is further adapted to identify a failure in the stream of gait information, and to consequently control the electrical stimulation circuit to deliver a fail-safe stimulati

Abstract: A film-type pressure sensor includes a carrier structure including a first carrier film, a second carrier film and a spacer film arranged between the first and second carrier films, where one or more pressure-sensing cells are disposed in the carrier structure, each of which includes an electrode arrangement for producing an impedance change in response to a compressive force, an electrical interface is provided for mechanically and electrically connecting the pressure sensor to an evaluation circuit, where some terminals of the interface are connected with the electrode arrangements of the cells so as to allow them to be read out, such that one or more electrical components interconnect at least two of the terminals in pairs so as to form a combination of terminal pair impedances that represents coded information relating to the pressure sensor.

Abstract: An accelerometer analyzing biomechanical parameters of the stride of a runner, including: fastening a device on the torso of the runner that is electrically self-sufficient and includes a triaxial accelerometer, chronograph, digital processor and display; measuring a sequence of acceleration data in at least the vertical direction using the accelerometer, while the runner runs a certain distance along a running course; during or at the end of the course, having the processor calculate the biomechanical parameters of the stride, including the lowering of the center of gravity and/or the elevation of the center of gravity and/or the sum of the lowering and of the elevation of the center of gravity and/or the vertical mechanical work of the center of gravity of the runner, on the basis of the acceleration data, of the distance and of a period of time measured by the chronograph; and displaying the parameters on the display.

Abstract: A method of processing force signals from plural force platforms includes, in a computer, in an initialization process, receiving data distinguishing the plural platforms, monitoring force data signals from each of the plural platforms, and identifying each of the plural platforms to a force platform data process application by a sequence of received above-threshold force data signals. The method further includes, subsequent to the initialization process, processing subsequent force data signals according to the identification of each of the plural force platforms. The distinguishing data can include data retrieved from nonvolatile memory of each of the plural force platforms, such as a platform serial number, calibration data, and platform capacity. A force platform system includes one or more force platforms and force platform signal conditioning circuitry connected to the one or more force platforms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and garment that incorporates sensors that can be used for measuring or monitoring pressure or forces in feet, the stumps of limbs of an amputee that are fitted with prosthetic devices, or any other parts of the body that are subject to forces such as the buttock while seated or when external pressure inducing devices are employed, such as for example, pressure bandages. The invention also relates to a method to monitor or diagnose any foot or limb related activity for recreational, sporting, military or medical reasons and is particularly aimed at the treatment of neuropathic or other degenerating conditions.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for detecting or monitoring neuropathy in an individual. The system of the invention includes a platform having a surface in which a plurality of stimulators is embedded. Each stimulator is configured to stimulate a region in a skin area when the skin area is applied to the platform. The stimulators may deliver thermal and/or vibrational energy to the skin region. In the method of the invention, a skin area is applied to platform and one of the stimulators is activated. A minimal stimulation is determined that is sensed by the individual in a skin region in contact with a stimulator. Neuropathy in the skin region in contact with the stimulator is detected if either the determined minimal stimulation is above a predetermined threshold, or if a stimulation is not sensed before a magnitude of the stimulation reaches a predetermined maximal magnitude. The process is then repeated with other stimulators.

Abstract: An interactive virtual care system may include a user sensory module to acquire multi-modal user data related to user movement. A data analysis module may compare the multi-modal user data to predetermined historical user data and/or statistical norm data for users to identify an anomaly in the user movement.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper member and a sole structure, with a sensor system connected to the sole structure. The sensor system includes a plurality of sensors that are configured for detecting forces exerted by a user's foot on the sensor. Each sensor includes two electrodes that are in communication with a force sensitive resistive material. The electrodes and the force sensitive resistive material may have multi-lobed shapes. Additionally, the sensor system may be provided on an insert that may form a sole member of the article of footwear. The insert may have slits therethrough, and may have a defined peripheral shape.

Abstract: A method and a system for analyzing multi-channel images are provided. The method includes: receiving a plurality of images through a plurality of channels, respectively; combining selected images among the plurality of images into a single image; and performing an image analysis with respect to: entirety of the combined image by treating the selected images as a single image; or each of the selected images in the combined image.

Abstract: Aspects of the instant disclosure relate to an orthosis pressure sensing device and methods of use. The pressure sensing device utilizes a Control unit connected to at least one pressure sensing arrangement placed in proximity to an orthosis. The control unit collects data from the pressure sensing arrangement, and wirelessly communicates data to various remote devices, which may be useful for improving a patient's gait, wound recovery or overall function. Each pressure sensor arrangement has a pressure sensor designed for selective placement at multiple locations of interest that include different contact points between an orthosis and a patient.

Abstract: Systems and method for monitoring gait dynamics are disclosed. The performance of an orthotic or prosthetic device or other device associated with a limb may be measured based on the resistance of a bending sensor. Data from the sensors is gathered or processed, particularly for purposes of alignment, safety, failure, usage, selection, and artificial proprioception. Information relating to the device may be outputted visually or auditorily to an individual.

Abstract: The present invention relates to embodiments which enable repetitive measurement and monitoring of the load applied to an apparatus, in a system, and/or by a method which may exceed a predetermined threshold of weight. Specifically, the present invention relates to weight monitoring apparatus, locomotion monitoring apparatus, a gait-response apparatus, a weight monitoring system, and a therapeutic load monitoring method.

Abstract: Apparatus is described for measuring and displaying the magnitude of traction forces applied to a patient's lower limbs during surgery, and for measuring the direction and magnitude of counter-traction forces applied to the patient's body by the perineal post located at the patient's groin to oppose traction forces applied to the patient's lower limbs.

Abstract: A device for correlating trend data with respect to a patient's weight and lower extremity displacement can identify conditions indicative of congestive heart failure. An imaging mechanism is operable to measure lower extremity displacement over a period of time. An over-time trend analysis of both the patient's weight and the lower extremity displacement measurements is performed to determine whether over a particular sample period an increase in a patient's lower extremity displacement can be correlated with an increase in the patient's weight. When such a correlation does not exist, an alert can be issued of conditions indicative of congestive heart failure.

Abstract: A foot orthotic service system includes a foot orthotic device including a pressure sensing substrate that is capable of generating at least one signal by sensing pressure exerted thereon, and a management unit that is mounted in the pressure sensing substrate, and that includes a signal processing module and a wireless communication module. The signal processing module receives the signal from the pressure sensing substrate, and processes the signal to generate pressure data that is associated with the pressure sensed by the pressure sensing substrate. The wireless communication module is electrically connected to the signal processing module and is capable of wirelessly transmitting the pressure data.

Abstract: Parameters related to use of a prosthesis by a patient with a limb amputation are monitored using a tool that includes one or more piezoelectric force sensors. The resulting data are processed for use both in short and long term management of amputee patients. The sensor is a small modular unit that fits within or between traditional prosthetic components, e.g., below a prosthesis socket. The data produced by the tool are collected, processed, and stored. Optionally, the data are periodically communicated to a remote site via a network, e.g., over the Internet. The device and associated software used to process the data can be used to characterize activities conducted by a prosthesis user, to determine pistoning or threatening interface stress distributions between the limb and socket, mal-alignment of the socket, use of improper components, and other possibly undesired conditions that the amputee patient using the prosthesis may be experiencing.

Abstract: A pressure monitoring shoe comprises a main shoe body, a data processing device and at least two pressure sensors. The pressure sensors are arranged at one or a plurality of locations where the main shoe body is in contact with a foot, and the pressure sensor comprises a flexible textile sensor and an encapsulation device for encapsulating the flexible textile sensor. The data processing device is arranged in one or more of the sole space, the outside space of the shoe body or the rear space of the heel of the pressure monitoring shoe, and a signal connection line is arranged between the data processing device and the pressure sensor.

Abstract: Articles of footwear and other devices include modules, e.g., for sensing physical and/or physiological characteristics associated with use of the footwear or other devices. Such devices may include an authentication or activation system for providing power or otherwise determining the connection of a sensor in the article of footwear.

Abstract: In an embodiment, a system for processing runner data includes a pressure sensor set having a first pressure sensor disposed in a footbed, the first pressure sensor including a first polyolefin sheet and a first gas chamber formed at least in part by the first polyolefin sheet, an electronics module coupled to the pressure sensor set, the electronics module including a first accelerometer, and a second accelerometer.

Abstract: A spasticity measurement apparatus includes: a leg mounting fixture including a lower leg mounting portion mounted on a lower leg of a subject for fixation, and a foot receiving portion coupled to a lower end portion of the lower leg mounting portion and having a heel receiving portion and a toe receiving portion for respectively receiving a heel and a toe of a foot leading to the lower leg, the toe receiving portion being disposed relatively rotatably around the heel receiving portion in an approaching rotation direction bringing the toe receiving portion closer to the lower leg mounting portion; a rotation inhibition apparatus inhibiting relative rotation when the foot receiving portion rotates relative to the lower leg mounting portion in the approaching direction; and a muscular contraction force measurement apparatus measuring a muscular contraction force acting in a rotation direction.

Abstract: An interactive virtual care system may include a user sensory module to acquire multi-modal user data related to user movement. A data analysis module may compare the multi-modal user data to predetermined historical user data and/or statistical norm data for users to identify an anomaly in the user movement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining stretch values and movement of body parts, e.g. a foot, by analysing stretch data from a stretch sensor. By analysing data from the stretch sensor it is possible to determine stretch samples which are associated with particular motion phases. Thereby the stretch values determined from the stretch samples have a particular physical meaning since they are associated with particular motion phases.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recognizing a gait pattern are provided. The method for recognizing a gate pattern includes: obtaining a walker's foot pressure distribution values through a pressure sensor array disposed at the bottom of a pair of shoes; calculating valid pressure points among the foot pressure distribution values; calculating a center of pressure (COP) movement trace by using the valid pressure points; and recognizing the walker's gait pattern by using the COP movement trace.

Abstract: A system and method for assessing a peripheral neuropathy risk wherein the system and method according to one embodiment of the present invention detects abnormality which may be directed to a probability, a stage, a category, or other indicator as to the degree of progression of the disease.

Abstract: A computer system for assessing dynamic bone quality is provided, including a memory that stores executable instructions, a central processing unit (CPU) capable of accessing the memory and executing the instructions to provide an output, and a receiver for receiving data input and transmitting it to the CPU, wherein the receiver is operably connected to: (1) a plurality of accelerometers, each accelerometer adapted to contact an exterior surface of a human subject at a load-bearing anatomical site and to receive input from each point of contact including acceleration response data; and (2) a force plate adapted to receive input including vertical ground reaction force data provided by a heel strike on the force plate, wherein the CPU executes the instructions to process the input data transmitted from the receiver to provide the output as a bone damping value. A method for assessing dynamic bone quality is also provided.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for reliably positioning a 3-segment limb, such as a leg or arm for imaging and medical analysis, which can accommodate for the patient's “natural alignment”. The apparatus positions the limb in such a way that the position of the proximal segment is controlled while an known external torque is applied at a known rate to the distal segment. The location of each of the limb's three segments is recorded using either external or internal measurement techniques, and the relative motions between the proximal and intermediate segments are used in the orthopedic evaluation of the proximal joint. Furthermore, the relative motions between the intermediate and distal segments are used in the orthopedic evaluation of the distal joint. By applying a known torque at a known rate, clinicians will be provided with valuable information related to joint range of motion, stability, laxity, and compliance.

Abstract: Systems and methods for constructing custom orthotics are described. Several embodiments of the system use sensor pads to obtain both static and dynamic three dimensional information concerning the shape or topography of the surface of a patient's foot and/or ankle. The information is analyzed to obtain information useful in constructing a custom orthotic from a selection of basic orthotic shells. Once constructed, the orthotic may modify a patient's gait. One embodiment of the present disclosure includes a user terminal including a plurality of sensors in a fitted material, the sensors being connected to a computer, a computer configured to analyze three dimensional information acquired by the plurality of sensors, a computer and/or a manufacturing terminal configured to display the results of the computer's analysis of the three dimensional information and a network that connects the user terminal to the computer and the computer to the manufacturing terminal.

Abstract: A shoe insole has a cavity configured to provide an internal pocket open to a face of said insole, conveniently the lower face, the cavity having a length greater than its width and being directed generally along the length of the insole. A segmented structure is slideably insertable into said cavity within it is removably retained, the segments being disposed along the cavity and housing a pressure sensor, sensor state monitoring circuits, a wireless transceiver and a battery, adjacent segments being electrically connected together and hinged together by pairs of laterally spaced connector bars each mechanically connected together by links configured to maintaining the spacing between segments while permitting flexion between adjacent segments under loads encountered during walking.

Abstract: A method for determining the motive instability of an individual using foot pressure, foot speed and foot direction data collected from sensors on shoes. The sensed data is used to determine the minimum number and the placement of pressure sensors in the shoe. The data from the sensors is processed to extract spatial and temporal parameters as desired. The data is grouped into segments based on a segmentation rule. The trend in each segment is determined. The variability of the trend in each segment is determined. The risk of fall is computed on the basis of the trend and variance. The computation is adjustable by emphasizing certain parameters in order to tailor the instability assessment to a specific individual.

Abstract: A gait analysis system for training or rehabilitation has an endless belt with pressure sensors underneath the belt to sense a person walking on the belt and an analyzing unit for analyzing the gait of the person. The system further includes an image display system with stored data for displaying images to a person using the apparatus training and/or therapy purposes.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a system and method for monitoring a human foot by measuring pressures applied to regions of the foot or by measuring another tissue-health related condition. A light source in the 400 nm to 1400 nm range and a detector can be embedded in a wearable article that contacts tissue while in use, spaced 200 ?m to 1 cm apart, and measure a tissue hemoglobin condition. A pressure-sensing array may be read by a low-power control circuit, and a power source can be incorporated in the article. An external processing unit wirelessly coupled to the control circuit can relate pressures measured with counts that are associated with injury risk, and an alert system can notify a patient if the counts exceed a predetermined threshold. A relationship between pressure experienced by a region of tissue and the risk of ulcer development in that region may be derived.

Abstract: An interactive virtual care system may include a user sensory module to acquire multi-modal user data related to user movement. A data analysis module may compare the multi-modal user data to predetermined historical user data and/or statistical norm data for users to identify an anomaly in the user movement.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for measuring an under foot load profile of a tibial fracture patient during a period of partial weight bearing are described. The system may include a walking boot cast. A housing, including an inner surface and an upper surface that cooperate to define an inner cavity, may be oriented with respect to a patient's tibia. The upper surface is slidably received within the inner cavity in a piston and cylinder configuration. The system may include a pressure sensor configured to monitor the load profile of a patient during the desired period of partial weight bearing. The pressure sensor may be located below the upper surface. The system may include a noncompressible force transmitter positioned within the inner cavity and at least partially encapsulating an upper portion of the pressure sensor to transmit pressure within the housing to the pressure sensor.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for measuring an under foot load profile of a patient during a period of partial weight bearing are described. The system may include a walking boot cast. A housing, including an inner surface and an upper surface that cooperate to define an inner cavity, may be oriented with respect to a patient's leg. The upper surface may be slidably received within the inner cavity in a piston and cylinder configuration or may be otherwise configured. The system may include a pressure sensor configured to monitor the load profile of a patient during the desired period of partial weight bearing. The pressure sensor may be located below the upper surface. The system may include a noncompressible force transmitter positioned within the inner cavity and at least partially encapsulating an upper portion of the pressure sensor to transmit pressure within the housing to the pressure sensor.

Abstract: A system is provided for monitoring whether a user is wearing and/or using a tagged device such as prescribed footwear, a walking aid, a brace or other orthotics. The system may detect whether the user is using a tagged device and can, in some embodiments, alert the user or the user's caregivers if the user ambulates without using the tagged device.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to apparatuses and methods for evaluating the amount of “play” in a joint. In one embodiment, an apparatus is provided that quantifies the rotation of the tibia in response to a known torque. The apparatus is configured to minimize the influence of other joints on the rotation analysis. Other embodiments provide data related to movement of the tibia in other degrees of freedom.

Abstract: This invention is a method and apparatus for low-cost detection and alerting of bed-departure, which causes significant stress to caretakers of patients who often wander out of bed as a result of their dementia, Alzheimer's, or other medical conditions. The apparatus comprises a sock embedded with a pressure sensor and a battery-powered microcontroller unit with a radio frequency module. Once the user wanders out of bed and steps onto the floor, the sensor on the sock will immediately detect the pressure caused by his or her body weight and wirelessly trigger an audible sound at a caretaker's monitoring unit, which can be a smart phone or PC. The sensor and the microcontroller unit can be packaged in one assembly to be mounted on an ordinary sock, slipper, or shoe. The apparatus also accurately counts steps and measures the time interval between them.