Abstract: A grasp assist device includes a glove portion having phalange rings, contact sensors for measuring a grasping force applied by an operator wearing the glove portion, and a tendon drive system (TDS). The device has flexible tendons connected to the phalange rings for moving the rings in response to feedback signals from the sensors. The TDS is connected to each of the tendons, and applies an augmenting tensile force thereto via a microcontroller adapted for determining the augmenting tensile force as a function of the grasping force. A method of augmenting a grasping force of an operator includes measuring the grasping force using the sensors, encoding the grasping force as the feedback signals, and calculating the augmenting tensile force as a function of the feedback signals using the microcontroller. The method includes energizing at least one actuator of a tendon drive system (TDS) to thereby apply the augmenting tensile force.

Abstract: A walking assistance device (1) has a body-mounted assembly (2) installed on the waist of a user (A), foot-mounted assemblies (3L, 3R) installed on feet, and leg links (4L, 4R) which connect the foot-mounted assemblies (3L, 3R) to the body-mounted assembly (2). The foot-mounted assemblies (3L, 3R) are provided with floor reaction force sensors (13L, 13R). Results obtained by multiplying the absolute values of floor reaction force vectors (three-dimensional vectors) detected by the floor reaction force sensors (13L, 13R) by a predetermined ratio are defined as target values of the magnitudes of the supporting forces transmitted to the leg links (4L, 4R) from the foot-mounted assemblies (3L, 3R). Actuators (20L, 20R) of the leg links (4L, 4R) are controlled such that the supporting forces having the magnitudes of the target values act on the leg links (4L, 4R) from the foot-mounted assemblies (3L, 3R) through the intermediary of joints (19L, 19R).

Abstract: A foot pain relief device can advantageously provide multiple angles of inclination, directed pressure against the plantar fascia, as well as ease of manufacturing and assembly. A toe strap, which is fastened around the ankle and the toe(s), ensures that the toes are flexed up. This toe flexing tenses the plantar fascia of the foot. A ball strap can be threaded through a hole in a ball and then operatively coupled with the toe strap. When operatively coupled to the toe strap, the ball strap keeps the ball positioned on the bottom of the foot while allowing ball mobility. The mobility of the ball can provide directed pressure on at least one component of the plantar fascia. Notably, the simultaneous combination of tension to the plantar fascia and directed pressure to the component(s) of the plantar fascia can be particularly effective at relieving foot pain.

Abstract: A control system for controlling an exoskeleton worn by a user and having one or more actuators associated with various body members of the exoskeleton each corresponding to a body part of the user. The control system comprises a user interface for receiving input data indicative of a desired movement sequence, a memory component for storing pre-programmed movement data indicative of one or more sequential instructions required to effect the movement sequence, each instruction being associated with relative actuator movements for performing the instruction, and an actuator controller for moving the one or more actuators according to the relative actuator movements for each instruction. The control system also comprises a terrain sub-system for adjusting the actuator movements upon detection of a change in terrain slope and a balance control sub-system for periodically adjusting the balance of the exoskeleton during relative movement of the one or more actuators.

Abstract: A system and a method that promotes the restoration of physical functions of the neuromuscular system by incorporating into one device the treatment modalities of biofeedback based repetitive practice, includes an actuator, a joint position measurement system, a force sensing measurement system, an EMG measurement system, a neuromuscular low-level stimulation system, a controller, and a display device.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a rehabilitation robot providing walking assistance to a user is disclosed. The apparatus includes a command perceiving unit for receiving a explicit walking command mode of a user based on a conscious adjustment signal, a motion sensing unit for sensing action of the user, a biometric sensing unit for sensing a biometric state of the user, and a host control module for analyzing walking steps and perceiving intent to walk by using the walking command perceived by the command perceiving unit and the action sensed by the motion sensing unit, thereby controlling the rehabilitation robot. The apparatus for controlling a rehabilitation robot further includes a wearing-type suit having the apparatus disposed thereon.

Abstract: A control device for a walking assistance device includes a seating section on which a user is seated, a pair of left and right foot sole installation sections fitted to the foot soles of the legs of the user, a pair of left and right leg links which connect the seating section to the foot sole installation sections, actuators which drive joints of the leg links, and an acting force detection means which detects force acting on the user from the seating section. The control device controls a driving force of at least one of the actuators according to the detected value of the acting force so that the force acting on the user is maintained at a least at a predetermined lower limit of upward force. Thus, desired user motions, such as jumping, can be performed while appropriate force acts on the user from the seating section.

Abstract: A method and system for motor learning. The method comprises the steps of detecting a user's motor intent; and giving robotic assistance to the user for executing a motor task associated with the motor intent based on the detected motor intent.

Abstract: A toe massage device is constructed from a rotating body while being supported on a base by a supporting shaft; a rotation drive device for rotating the rotating body in the normal and reverse directions; and toe fixation means provided on the rotating body and fixing toes of a subject. The toes are fixed on the rotating body by the toe fixation means and the rotating body is rotated in the normal and reverse directions. When the rotating body is rotated in the normal direction, the toes are pulled forward and downward. That is, the toes are pulled in the direction in which they are bent toward the sole. When the rotating body is rotated in the reverse direction, the toes are bent upward while being caused to move backward.

Abstract: A rehabilitation apparatus with at least three degrees of freedom of motion, comprising: a plurality of brakes; a motor, wherein the motor is operationally connected to the brakes; a plurality of surfaces, wherein each of a plurality of the surfaces correlates to a brake; and, wherein when the motor is activated, the brakes are selectively advanced to make contact with the surfaces causing friction between the brakes and the surfaces and thus causing variable resistance in the three degrees of freedom to the apparatus based on the extent of advancement of the brakes.

Abstract: A body weight support device of the present invention is equipped with a body attachment part attached to a user's body, a floor contact part provided contactably on a floor, a leg link part for connecting the body attachment part to the floor contact part through a joint part, an actuator for driving the joint part, and a control unit for controlling a drive of the actuator, wherein the control unit drives the actuator so that the leg link part gives a body weight support force to the user through the body attachment part.

Abstract: The combined floor mat and continuous passive motion device may include a continuous passive motion device and a single and unitary floor mat preferably in continuous frictional contact with the ground surface. The floor mat may be laid end-to-end with the continuous passive motion device so that the proximal end of the continuous passive motion device is adjustably connected to a distal end of the floor mat. The continuous passive motion device may further include a mechanism for preventing the continuous passive motion device from shifting during the exercise so that the floor mat remains longitudinally aligned with the continuous passive motion device and continuously disposed at a flat and planar arrangement on the ground surface.

Abstract: A resuscitation device for automatic compression of victim's chest using a compression belt which exerts force evenly over the entire thoracic cavity. The belt is constricted and relaxed through a motorized spool assembly which repeatedly tightens the belt and relaxes the belt to provide repeated and rapid chest compression. An assembly includes various resuscitation devices including chest compression devices, defibrillation devices, and airway management devices, along with communications devices and senses with initiate communications with emergency medical personnel automatically upon use of the device.

Abstract: Electro-rheological fluid brake or actuator devices provide controllable resistance with or without inclusion of active torque output in either direction of rotation under manual or computer control. The brake and actuator devices are suitable for use in an orthotic device for a joint, such as the knee or elbow.

Abstract: A power transmission system, which transmits a driving force from a rotary actuator to a third joint of a leg link, applies a driving torque to the third joint from an output shaft of the rotary actuator via a driving crank arm, a connecting rod, and a driven crank arm. A translational force (rod transmitting force) generated at the connecting rod in the longitudinal direction thereof is measured on the basis of an output of a force sensor fixed to the connecting rod. With the rod transmitting force or a driving torque applied to the third joint by the rod transmitting force as a controlled variable, the driving force of the rotary actuator is feedback-controlled according to the measured value of the rod transmitting force and a desired value of the controlled variable so that the controlled variable coincides with the desired value.

Abstract: Provided is an early rehabilitation training system that increase the intensity of patient rehabilitation training to shorten the time it takes for patients to progress to a secondary rehabilitation training stage by allowing patients incapable of self-ambulation to be artificially rehabilitated in a prone, bed-ridden position. The system includes a treatment bed (2) configured with a mattress (2a), a base (2b) disposed below the mattress (2a) and coupled through a hinge to one end of the mattress (2a), and a tilting unit (2c) provided between the mattress (2a) and the base (2b) to adjust an upright angle of the mattress (2a); and a rotating unit (10) provided below the mattress (2a) of the treatment bed (2) to secure a patient's feet and provide artificial exercising of the patient's feet through gravity when the upright angle of the mattress (2a) is changed by the tilting unit (2c).

Abstract: A vibration-exercising machine has a supporting frame, a main platform being mounted on the supporting frame, at least one additional platform being mounted on the supporting frame and multiple vibrators being mounted in each corresponding platform. The vibration-exercising machine allows different parts of a user to be vibrated and exercised efficiently at the same time with easy and comfortable poses.

Abstract: A robot rehabilitation device, especially suitable for being used in motor rehabilitation activities on patients suffering from neurological and/or orthopaedic damages of a various nature as well as motor rehabilitation on patients with a hip or knee prosthesis, including a portal structure fixed to a base structure, a motor-driven belt suitable for allowing patient to walk, a bodice basically provided with four straps or braces that can be hooked to the device structure and worn by the patient, for the support thereof, a first exoskeleton and a second exoskeleton articulated and independent for the passive and assisted movement of the lower limbs of the patient, the exoskeletons including automatic actuation and movement elements, with the rehabilitation device that further includes a device for lifting the patient for the automatic and continuous control of the amount of weight of the same to be used in the therapy.

Abstract: A walking assistance device (1) has a receiving portion (2) which receives a part of the weight of a user (A) applied from above and a pair of left and right leg links (3R, 3L) connected to the receiving portion (2) through first joints (10R, 10L), with foot attachment portions (15R, 15L) at lower ends of the leg links (3R, 3L) attached to the feet of the legs of the user (A), respectively. The leg links (3R, 3L) are connected to the receiving portion (2) in such a way that, when each leg of the user (A) is a standing leg, a line of action of a supporting force transmitted from a third joint (14R, 14L) of the leg link (3R, 3L) to a crus frame (13R, 13L) out of the supporting force acting on the leg link (3R, 3L) from the floor side passes through a specific point (P) located upper than the receiving portion (2) within an anteroposterior width of a contact surface between the receiving portion (2) and the user (A) from the third joint (14R, 14L), viewed in the sagittal plane.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an orthopedic exerciser and its actuating mechanism which, more specifically, are used for therapy, post-surgery rehabilitation or healing of a knee, of a joint, or the muscles of a leg or any other body member. Such exercisers usually allow a combination of exercises that help in the recovery of the joint, but to minimize the chances of further injuring the body part and therefore increase the recovery process, the exerciser must submit the body part to a controlled level of force. The orthopedic exerciser of the present invention includes an actuating mechanism cooperating with a resistance assembly which provides resistance and/or assistance along different directions of movement of the actuating mechanism.

Abstract: A method of operating a biomimetic mechanical joint having a plurality of fractional actuators configured for rotating a support member about a pivot device. The fractional actuators can be selectively recruited during operation, either individually or together, to efficiently rotate the support member about the mechanical joint throughout a range of movements and under a variety of load conditions. Each fractional actuator can be continuously throttled to reduce the speed or torque at which the actuator operates. The capability of selectively recruiting and throttling each fractional actuator results in an actuator system having two degrees of freedom, in which a single operating state of the mechanical joint may be reached with one or more of actuator arrangements and throttling settings.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) at a so-called back bench (2) and comprises a lying part (6) that is supportable by a stand (3), turnably mounted around a pivot joint (5), and movable along the length extension (8) thereof, as well as a mechanism (9) for manual actuation of the arresting of said lying part (6) in the desired angular setting, and having clamping members (10) for the clamping of persons' legs.

Abstract: A device for generating power during a locomotion cycle from mechanical energy of a living body.

Abstract: A device and method for carrying out a dialysis of a patient and a stimulation of said patient at the same time either during dialysis sessions, or between dialysis sessions or both.

Abstract: This apparatus for mobilization of the body comprises a receiving platform which is movable in relation to a fixed chassis, and which is designed to support a subject who is to be treated in a standing position. The platform is connected to the chassis by a double pivot connection, and it is driven by an oscillating movement in relation to an axis passing substantially through its centre, by means of actuators each connected by a pivot connection to a shaft connected to said platform, said actuators themselves being articulated on the chassis.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for therapeutically treating bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue conditions. A platform supports a body to be treated. An oscillator is positioned within the platform and is configured to impart an oscillating force on the body. A capacitor assembly is positioned adjacent the platform for automatically determining the mass of the body being supported on the platform. Once the mass of the body is determined, an amplitude of the frequency of the oscillating force is adjusted to provide a desired therapeutic treatment to the patient. Also, the capacitor assembly is configured to turn the oscillator on and off as a function of whether or not a body is being supported on the platform.

Abstract: A power apparatus comprising includes: a moving section that moves in accordance with an action of a body part; a motor that outputs, during action of the body part in a first action direction, power to the moving section so as to cause the moving section to move in the first action direction and that recovers, during action of the body part in a second action direction, power generated by the movement of the moving section in the second action direction; and a capacitor that stores regenerative electric power generated by the recovery of the power and that supplies the stored regenerative electric power to the motor when the motor outputs the power to the moving section.

Abstract: Multifunction equipment installed in a room is provided. The multifunction equipment has main body and movable device that moves to implement plural functions, thereby allowing the multifunction equipment to be used as plural functional devices. The movable device is connected to the main body. The multifunction equipment also has assisting device that assists a use of the multifunction equipment as a desired functional device when the movable device moves to allow the multifunction equipment to be used as the desired functional device.

Abstract: An automated therapy table is disclosed. The automated therapy table may have various support portions capable of independent automatic actuation of a person's lower extremities through passive exercise. The automated therapy table allows a patient to perform leg elevation, approximation/decompression of the leg, internal/external rotation of the leg, ankle plantar flexion/dorsiflexion, and foot inversion/eversion movements. During each movement, the patient may be instructed to think in the direction of the movement. It has been found that doing so helps increase the healing effects. The disclosed table and method may be beneficial for patients after certain operations as well as for those suffering from various forms of debilitating illnesses, such as Multiple Sclerosis, Charcot-Marie-Tooth, and Muscular Dystrophy.

Abstract: An apparatus suitable for imitating one or more muscle members of a human user during physical therapy, wherein the apparatus is configured to be used in conjunction with the human user having a waist and a leg having a knee. The apparatus includes an adjustable waist belt configured to be secured around the human user's waist and a lower leg support configured to encircle the human user's leg in a vicinity of the knee. The apparatus further includes an elastic member configured to provide an adjustable tensile resistance between the waist belt and the lower leg support.

Abstract: A body-weight support system that allows individuals with severe gait impairments to practice over-ground walking in a safe, controlled manner is disclosed. The system includes a body-weight support system that rides along a driven trolley and can be controlled in response to the movement of the subject using the system.

Abstract: Tow forces can be measured only by providing one force sensor in a device structure, and a drive system is driven so as to assist an external force by detecting it. A value at a force sensor (114) at the moment when a foot switch (121) is set as the original point (detection reference) of a force to be assisted. Variations of the force after the original point setting is measured by the force sensor (114) the difference between the measured value and the assist original point is obtained, and a force to be assisted is detected. Depending on the magnitude of the force to be assisted, assist operation is performed by causing a drive force to act on a foot such that the force to be assisted is reduced. When the force is assisted reaches zero, the assist operation is completed. Then, two forces, or “a force acting on a patient's foot” and “a force applied to the foot” from the outside, are detected by the one force sensor (114).

Abstract: A training system and method include providing a frame, a user support portion coupled to the frame and arranged to support a user, and a user engagement portion coupled to the frame and arranged to be engaged by the body part. A force sensor is provided for sensing a user-applied force at the user engagement portion, and a position sensor is operably connected to at least one of the user support portion and the user engagement portion for sensing a relative position therebetween. A motor is coupled to at least one of the user support portion and the user engagement portion for driving a position thereof with respect to the frame over a range of motion at a preprogrammed velocity, and a controller is provided in communication with the motor, the force sensor, and the position sensor.

Abstract: A mobility apparatus for a patient permitting improved mobility is disclosed. The apparatus includes a frame assembly, a locomotion assembly, a forearm support assembly, a kinematic and kinetic feedback assembly and optionally a back support assembly, where the apparatus provides mobility assistance, while permitting visualization of movement velocity, loaded and unloaded motion, and other information concerning a patients proper use of the mobility assistance apparatus.

Abstract: A control device and a control program for a walking assist apparatus set a desired lifting force to act on a user from a seat and distribute the desired lifting force to each leg link of the walking assist apparatus according to the ratios of treading forces of the legs of the user measured on the basis of outputs of force sensors so as to determine the share for each leg link. Then, an actuator of each leg link is controlled to generate a force for the determined share. Thus, a force required for the user to support himself/herself with his/her leg or legs on a floor can be reduced while using a reduced number of parts to be attached to each leg of the user. Moreover, an assist force for achieving such a reduced required force can be properly shared between the leg links associated with the legs of the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for exercising and stretching muscles. The exercise machine of the invention is built on the concept of stretching muscles under vibration. This allows for a greater ease in stretching muscles, avoids pain, and keeps muscles relaxed and loose during the exercise period.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a passive trainer for incontinence treatment and rehabilitation. The trainer comprises an elongated effecter configured for being reversibly introduced entirely into the rectum via the anus; or into the vagina of a human patient; and, a stopper coupled to said effecter, said stopper being adapted to remain external and adjacent to said anus, for preventing slippage of said effecter deeper into said rectum or said vagina; wherein the treatment and rehabilitation are obtained passively without any application of external forces. The present invention further discloses a method of rehabilitating and treating incontinence.

Abstract: The present invention proposes a method and a device (1) which, on the one hand allow the lips of the human mouth to be exercised and on the other hand prevent a formation of wrinkles in the mouth area. The device (1) according to the invention is placed on the teeth (4) of the upper and/or lower jaw and executes a relative movement between lips and U-shaped device (1).

Abstract: A system and a method that promotes the restoration of physical functions of the neuromuscular system by incorporating into one device the treatment modalities of biofeedback based repetitive practice, includes an actuator, a joint position measurement system, a force sensing measurement system, an EMG measurement system, a neuromuscular low-level stimulation system, a controller, and a display device.

Abstract: In the present invention, the motion state of the wearable motion-assist device 10-1 of the doctor 1 is sent to the wearable motion-assist device 10-2 of the patient 2 via a network. Then, this motion state is applied to the wearable motion-assist device 10-2 of the patient 2, so that rehabilitation is conducted for the patient 2. Furthermore, the motion state of the wearable motion-assist device 10-2 of the patient 2 is sent from the wearable motion-assist device 10-2 to the wearable motion-assist device 10-1. Then, the motion state of the wearable motion-assist device 10-2 is applied to the wearable motion-assist device 10-1. Accordingly, the doctor 1 can objectively sense the state of the patient 2.

Abstract: The Integrated Body Conditioning (IBC) exercise system is a method of exercising employing three defining elements: integration of aerobic, resistance, and Range of Motion exercises performed at a properly elevated heart rate with exercise intensity and duration adjusted in view of biofeedback data.

Abstract: A method for generating power from an exerted energy associated with muscles acting across a joint is provided. The method including: absorbing energy during one or more periods of a periodic motion of the joint in which energy is absorbed by the muscles; and at least partially returning the absorbed energy to one of an energy storage device or power consuming device.

Abstract: A tilting inversion exerciser includes a carrier having two arms pivotally attached to two apex members of a supporting stand and having a bar, a user supporting table adjustably secured to the bar of the carrier for adjusting toward and away from the bar of the carrier and for suitably or adjustably supporting the users of different weights or body forms or physiques, and a latching device secures the user supporting table to the bar of the carrier after the user supporting table has been adjusted relative to the bar of the carrier for suitably adjusting the user supporting table and the user toward and away from the apex members or the center of gravity of the supporting stand.

Abstract: A fluid pressure type actuator revolvable at high speeds and an exercise device using the actuator. The fluid pressure type actuator comprises an expansible/contractible body (1), which is sealed by plug members (2,3) at both ends and expanded and contracted by the supply and discharge of a fluid there to and therefrom, a net-like wrapping body (7) which wraps the outside of the expansible/contractible body (1) and is fastened and secured to the plug members (2,3) at both ends, and inlet and outlet for fluid formed in the plug members (2,3). It is characterized in having space reducing bodies (4,5) for filling at least a part of a space in the expansible/contractible body (1).

Abstract: A tilting inversion exerciser includes a carrier having two arms pivotally attached to a supporting stand, a frame having a rod adjustably secured to the arms, a user supporting table attached to the frame, and a latching device releasably securing the rod of the frame to the arms for adjustably securing the user supporting table to the carrier and for adjusting a center of gravity of the user supporting table relative to the carrier and the supporting stand, and for suitably or adjustably supporting the users of different weights or body forms or physiques. The latching device includes a fastener for solidly securing the frame to the arms, and a latch member for adjustably securing the frame to the arms of the carrier.

Abstract: The invention relates to a muscle stimulation device comprising a handle bar with a first and a second end, a motor which is arranged in a cavity in the handle bar and is coupled by means of a motor shaft to at least one eccentric body in order to set the muscle stimulation device vibrating by an unbalance of the eccentric body. According to the invention the eccentric body/ies has/have a common center of mass, which is at a different distance from the first end of the handle bar than it is from the second end of the handle bar. The invention furthermore relates to an exchangeable head for such a muscle stimulation device.

Abstract: A device for the stimulation of the locomotor apparatus muscles comprising a solid footboard (2), which is oscillated about a central axis (6) of oscillation having a transversal extension with respect to the footboard and dividing the latter into a first arm (A) and a second arm (B), characterized in that there is provided a drive mans operating at least one arm.

Abstract: The present invention provides a sporting apparatus including: a supporter which has a plurality of joint holes and joint grooves formed in the upper surface thereof and stoppers formed on the lower surface thereof; a finger-pressure pad which has joint protrusions formed on the lower surface thereof to be coupled with the joint grooves of the supporter and has a finger-pressure portion formed in the upper surface thereof; pedestals which are provided on the stopper sides of the supporter and has joint holes formed in several faces thereof to adjust the height of the supporter; and knobs coupled with the joint holes of the supporter and the joint holes of the pedestals.

Abstract: The invention relates to method and system for controlling a training plan for a user having a chosen aim for training, where at least one parameter describing physical characteristics of the user is determined, and a training plan consists of plurality of days, each day having one or more training sessions or rest, and each performed and coming session having a training load described by one or more parameters a training template is determined according to the aim and the said one or more parameters describing physical characteristics, each training template having a cumulative training load target according to the said parameter and the chosen aim and consisting of one or more training sessions or rest in each day, each training session of the template having a pre-selected training load, and an adapting window is determined, the adapting window consisting of a plurality of days, which include one or more previous sessions and one or more coming sessions according to the training template, and training l

Abstract: A device for regulating Bladder Meridian and Channel Sinews of Foot Taiyang includes a board having a top face and a bottom face. A rib is formed on an end of the top face. A plurality of holes are defined in the bottom faces and have different distances to the rib. A leg is removably engaged with one of the holes of the bottom face of the board to support the board in one of a plurality of inclination angles. In use, a user stands on the top face of the board, with his or her heels abutting against and supported by the rib. The feet of the user rest on the top face of the board and are, thus, in a bent position toward the lower limbs of the user to stretch the posterior sinews of the lower limbs of the user.