Joint Or Limb (e.g., Wrist, Arm, Leg, Etc.) Patents (Class 601/33)
  • Patent number: 8771208
    Abstract: Powered orthosis systems and methods are disclosed. An orthosis system includes a frame, a trunk brace adapted to be secured to a user's trunk, a trunk joint coupling the trunk brace to the frame, an upper leg brace adapted to be secured to a user's upper leg, a hip joint coupling the upper leg brace to the trunk brace, a lower leg brace adapted to be secured to a user's lower leg, a knee joint coupling the lower leg brace to the upper leg brace, and a controller. The hip joint or knee joint includes an actuator operable to rotate the adjacent braces relative to each other. The controller is programmed to operate the actuator. An orthosis method includes securing a user to the orthosis system, enabling the user to walk while secured to the orthosis system, and actuating the hip or knee actuator to rotate the adjacent braces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventors: Sunil K. Agrawal, Kyle N. Winfree, Paul Stegall, John P. Scholz
  • Publication number: 20140171838
    Abstract: Exoskeleton technology is described herein. Such technology includes but is not limited to exoskeletons, exoskeleton controllers, methods for controlling an exoskeleton, and combinations thereof. The exoskeleton technology may facilitate, enhance, and/or supplant the natural mobility of a user via a combination of sensor elements, processing/control elements, and actuating elements. User movement may be elicited by electrical stimulation of the user's muscles, actuation of one or more mechanical components, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the exoskeleton technology may adjust in response to measured inputs, such as motions or electrical signals produced by a user. In this way, the exoskeleton technology may interpret known inputs and learn new inputs, which may lead to a more seamless user experience.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2012
    Publication date: June 19, 2014
    Inventors: ALEKSANDAR ALEKSOV, BRIAN S. DOYLE, RAVINDRANATH V. MAHAJAN
  • Patent number: 8753296
    Abstract: A method of rehabilitation using an actuator type that includes a movement mechanism capable of applying a force that interacts with a motion of a patient's limb in a volume of at least 30 cm in diameter, in at least three degrees of freedom of motion of the actuator and capable of preventing substantial motion in any point in any direction in said volume, comprising: exercising a patient at a first place of rehabilitation selected from a bed, a wheel-chair, a clinic and a home, using an actuator of said actuator type which interacts with a motion of said patient; and second exercising said patient at a second place of rehabilitation selected from a bed, a wheel-chair, a clinic and a home using a second actuator of said actuator type which interacts with a motion of said patient; wherein said first exercising and said second exercising utilize a same movement mechanism design for moving the actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Motorika Limited
    Inventors: Omer Einav, Haim Einav, Benny Rousso, Doron Shabanov, Eran Katzir, Gad Binyamini
  • Patent number: 8740758
    Abstract: A rehabilitation device for legs has a foot piece mounted on a set of track rails, the foot piece is movable through knee extension and flexion, as well as through an elastic band looped around the back. By moving the foot piece, users are able to redevelop and strengthen muscles in the lower leg. Accompanying the foot piece on the track is a slider. The slider measures the distance the user is able to move the foot piece through a plurality of numbered holes in line with the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Erik Matthew Sandvig
  • Patent number: 8740822
    Abstract: An actuator is reduced in weight without impairing a walking assist function, and this reduces the inertial moment of a leg link. A drive crank arm on the output shaft of the actuator and a driven crank arm fixed to a second link portion so as to be concentric to the joint shaft of a third joint portion are connected to each other via a connection link. The connection link is placed so that a line connecting a pivot portion at which the drive crank arm is pivotally mounted and a pivot portion at which the driven crank arm is pivotally mounted obliquely crosses a line connecting the output shaft of the actuator and the joint shaft of the third joint portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Hiki, Zenta Sugawara, Jun Ashihara
  • Publication number: 20140142474
    Abstract: A powered orthotic system includes a wearable component having a brace, an EEG sensor, an electrically powered actuator assembly in communication with the EEG sensor, and a controller in communication with the actuator assembly that provides system parameters to control operation of the actuator assembly. The system also includes a control unit in communication with the wearable component. The control unit includes a processor that modifies the system parameters in the controller and a user interface, in communication with the processor, that permits user selection of the system parameters. The control unit includes an auto-calibration mode in which an initial EEG signal level is measured by the EEG sensor for one or more muscles of the user when the muscles are at-rest, and the initial EEG signal level is used to adjust an EEG signal level measured during subsequent operation of the wearable component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2013
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Applicant: Myomo, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. McBean, Kailas N. Narendran
  • Patent number: 8696604
    Abstract: A muscle force assisting can increase a bending angle of a second attachment with respect to a first attachment. The muscle force assisting device includes the first attachment arranged along one bone of a joint, the second attachment arranged along the other bone of the joint, and an artificial muscle having one end provided on the first attachment and having the other end provided on the second attachment, an actuator that is extensible or contractible by supplying or discharging a substance such as gas, liquid and solid, or a mixture thereof is used as the artificial muscle, and the muscle force assisting device assists motion of a user's elbow, knee and wrist, the one end of the artificial muscle can be displaced with respect to the first attachment, the one end of the artificial muscle is displaced, and a bending angle of the second attachment with respect to the first attachment is increased as compared with a case where the one end of the artificial muscle is not displaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Kawakami, Toshihiko Ishiko, Keisuke Ueda
  • Patent number: 8690803
    Abstract: An architecture is presented that provides an exercise device for rehabilitation. The exercise device comprises at least two handles for securing hands of a user; a front rest and a back rest to position a body of the user; and at least two foot pedals for securing feet of the user. A reduction electric motor is used to power the exercise device. Additionally, the exercise device is fitted with wheels to allow the device to be moved. Typically, a user is lifted to a standing position and positioned between the back rest and front rest and secured. The user's hands are then secured to the handles via gloves and the user's feet are secured to the foot pedals via straps. The device is then powered on to exercise muscles of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Ralph Fullenkamp
  • Patent number: 8690802
    Abstract: A motion state of a wearable motion-assist device of a doctor is sent to the wearable motion-assist device of a patient via a network. Then, this motion state is applied to the wearable motion-assist device of the patient, so that rehabilitation is conducted for the patient. Furthermore, the motion state of the wearable motion-assist device of the patient is sent from the wearable motion-assist device to the wearable motion-assist device. Then, the motion state of the wearable motion-assist device is applied to the wearable motion-assist device. Accordingly, the doctor can objectively sense the state of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: University of Tsukuba
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Sankai
  • Publication number: 20140094723
    Abstract: A kit for assisting a disabled person in rehabilitation is disclosed herein. The kit includes a frame. The kit also includes at least one loop mounted on the frame. The loop defines a first opening. The kit also includes a flexible elongate member extending between first and second opposite ends. The flexible elongate member is selectively receivable in the at least one loop. The kit also includes first and second attachment members. The first and second attachment members can be connected at one of the first and second opposite ends of the flexible elongate member or at some point between the first and second opposite ends. Each of the first and second attachment members is operable to form an opening of variable size to receive and releasibly tighten around a limb of the disabled person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventors: ROBERT FAIR, MATT FAIR
  • Patent number: 8679041
    Abstract: A joint drive type link mechanism provided with a link including a joint portion at an intermediary thereof, and a driving source for the joint portion, wherein a link member configuring the link is mounted with the driving source and electric components used for the control of the driving source, in which the link is prevented from being heated by the heat of the electric components is provided. The link member includes an interior space in which the electric components are arranged and has the driving source is arranged thereon with an air inlet connecting to the interior space and an exhaust outlet for exhausting the air passing through the interior space. Further, the interior space is provided with fans as well as a heat sink for cooling the air after air-cooling the electric components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Tatsuya Noda
  • Publication number: 20140081186
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise machine for setting exercise in six degrees of motion. In particular, it exercises the shoulder more thoroughly and quickly than previously available.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventor: Gary R. Paris
  • Patent number: 8652076
    Abstract: A hand movement device comprises a glove for positioning about a hand of a user, a first anchor element adapted to be positioned about a base surface of glove, a second anchor element adapted to be positioned at a tip of a finger portion of the glove, an active spring member positioned between the first and second anchor elements, said active spring member being fixedly secured to said first anchor element and moveable through said second anchor element to thereby allow said spring member to bend about a joint of the finger when said finger is flexed, an activating element positioned adjacent the active spring member to heat or cool said active spring member thereby causing the spring member to bend or straighten, and an intermediary support device for housing said spring element and for connecting the first anchor element to said second anchor element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventors: Edward M. Land, H. Lee Mantelmacher, Rebecca German, Marlis Gonzalez-Fernandez, Gad Alon, John Staehlin, Ken Silver, Wayne E. Moore
  • Publication number: 20140039360
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for rehabilitating an individual's leg after the individual has undergone a knee replacement. The apparatus reduces the individual's awareness of discomfort produced while increasing the range of motion of the individual's leg. The individual's awareness is decreased by having the individual focus simultaneously on a display screen indicating range of motion and on manually operating the apparatus to increase range of motion of the individual's lower leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Roger A. Spade
  • Publication number: 20140024978
    Abstract: A support device (5) arranged to be removably secured to a user and having vertical (16) and horizontal (18) members. In one arrangement, a lower support assembly is arranged for attachment to the user's leg so that the support device assists the user in lifting the leg while taking a step. In an alternative arrangement, the lower support assembly is attached to the lower trunk of the user so that the support device assists in straightening the user's spine. The spring assembly (10) can be arranged to apply forward torque to the lower support assembly (8) relative to the upper support assembly (6), for leg lift assist, or backward torque to the lower support assembly for spine straightening assist.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Publication date: January 23, 2014
    Inventors: James M. Killian, Dell Klotz
  • Patent number: 8632480
    Abstract: A jointexercising device suitable for both lying and sitting patients comprises a tubular frame (11) having an inclined surface (20, 21), and a leg support (31) movable on the surface via an axle (39) and wheels (40). The support is attachable to the axle either via foot portion (33) or leg portion (32), and in either orientation. The inclination of the frame (11) is adjustable. Fences (51) allow leg lifting exercises without disengagement of the wheels (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: The Malvern Orthopaedic Company Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew David Gardner, Petrus Van De Walt
  • Patent number: 8622938
    Abstract: A wearable action-assist device which assists or executes an action of a wearer by substituting for the wearer is provided with an action-assist tool 2 having an actuator 201 which gives power to the wearer 1, a biosignal sensor 221 which detects a wearer's biosignal, a biosignal processing unit 3 which acquires from a biosignal “a” detected by the biosignal sensor a nerve transfer signal “b” for operating a wearer's muscular line skeletal system, and a myoelectricity signal “c” accompanied with a wearer's muscular line activity, an optional control unit 4 which generates a command signal “d” for causing the actuator 201 to generate power according to the wearer's intention using the nerve transfer signal “b” and the myoelectricity signal “c” acquired by the biosignal processing unit 3, and a driving current generating unit 5 which generates a current according to the nerve transfer signal b and a current according to the myoelectricity signal “c”, respectively, based on the command signal “d” generated by th
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: University of Tsukuba
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Sankai
  • Publication number: 20130345605
    Abstract: A method for mobilizing a hip joint capsule of a patient using a resilient bolster. In accordance with the method, the patient assumes a lateral position, with the hip capsule to be treated superior. The resilient bolster is placed between the patient's legs as proximal to the patient's crotch. A force is applied to patient's superior leg to move it downwardly from a resting position. During downward movement of the patient's superior leg, the bolster functions as a fulcrum and the patient's superior femur functions as a lever arm to create a first class lever that partially distracts the femoral head from the acetabulum. After application of the force, the resiliency of the bolster causes the patient's superior leg to return to the resting position. The movements may be repeated, and the degree of hip flexion and rotation may be varied to affect different regions of the hip capsule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Carl W. Steele
  • Patent number: 8613715
    Abstract: A passive exercise therapy station moves a patient's limb or body part through a prescribed range of motion without stress to the patient's limb or associated joints. A frame is formed of a pair of arches joined in parallel to one another, with a pair of overhead horizontal rails. One or more main cables extend over guide pulleys on the frame and past an adjustable guide carriage that travels along the overhead rails. An actuator positions the guide carriage at a desired location on the overhead rails. An exercise cable descends from the guide carriage to the patient. The exercise cable may be a web attached to the main cable. The exercise therapy station may be wheeled between rooms for therapy of a given patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Wright Wellness Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: David Wright, Paul Lindsay, Robert Metzger, Ramona Wright, Deborah Metzger
  • Publication number: 20130338548
    Abstract: An upper limb training apparatus comprises an operation rod supported by a frame such that the operation rod can tilt in all directions. The operation rod is operated by a trainee by hand. A tilting operation force detecting mechanism disposed between the frame and the operation rod includes a load member that is displaced and generates a predetermined elastic resistance force corresponding to the tilting amount regardless of the tilting direction when the operation rod is tilted, and a vector detecting section that detects the tilting operation force and the tilting direction of the operation rod due to displacement of the load member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.
    Inventor: Yoichi Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20130338549
    Abstract: In an upper limb training apparatus, an exterior cover covers first and second gimbal mechanisms. The exterior cover includes a fixed cover fixed to a fixed frame, and first and second moving covers. The first moving cover is fixed to and moves together with an operation rod. The second moving cover is fixed to and moves together with a movable frame. The second moving cover is arranged between the first moving cover and the fixed cover so as to be able to move relative to both of the first moving cover and the fixed cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.
    Inventors: Kenji Korenaga, Wataru Shimizuhira
  • Publication number: 20130338547
    Abstract: An upper limb training apparatus for training the upper limb of a trainee includes a fixed frame, a movable frame, a tilting resistance applying mechanism, an operation rod, and a Z axis motor. The fixed frame can be placed on a floor surface. The movable frame is supported by the fixed frame to be able to tilt in all directions from a first tilting center. The tilting resistance applying mechanism applies resistance to the tilting action of the movable frame. The operation rod is attached to the movable frame, and is operated by the trainee by hand. The operation rod can extend and contract in the vertical direction toward or away from the floor surface. The Z axis motor is arranged in a position closer to the floor surface than the first tilting center, and extends and contracts the operation rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.
    Inventors: Wataru Shimizuhira, Kenji Korenaga
  • Publication number: 20130331743
    Abstract: In an upper limb training apparatus, a movable frame is supported by a fixed frame placed on a floor surface such that the movable frame can tilt in all directions. An operation rod including an operation rod main body and an attachment fixed portion is attached to the movable frame and can extend and contract. The attachment fixed portion, to which an attachment is fixed, is attached to the tip of the operation rod main body and includes an elastic member that absorbs forces in any directions other than the axial direction relative to the operation rod main body. The axial displacement detecting section can thereby grasp just the axial force applied to the operation rod by detecting the displacement of attachment fixed portion in the axial direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.
    Inventor: Yoichi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8597212
    Abstract: A wrist assisting apparatus can smoothly bend and stretch a joint even if a turning shaft of a joint and a rotation shaft of a wearing tool are deviated from each other. Also, an excessive load is not applied to a user. The wrist assisting apparatus of the present invention includes a palm support member for supporting a hand, angle changing members connected to sides of the palm support member, a front arm wearing tool disposed along the front arm, and joint members for forming a rotation shaft of the angle changing member with respect to the front arm wearing tool, wherein the angle changing members are provided on both sides of the palm support member, the joint members are provided on the angle changing members, respectively, and the joint members are located on both sides of a wrist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Kawakami, Toshihiko Ishiko, Keisuke Ueda
  • Patent number: 8591438
    Abstract: In the walking assist device, defining rigidity of a portion from the user to a first joint as K1 [N/m], rigidity of a portion from the first joint to the second joint as K2 [N/m] and rigidity of a portion from the second joint to one of the feet of a free leg of the user as K31 [N/m], when the user is supported by the support member, they are set as: (K1 +K31)<K2. With this, the assist force can avoid being affected by, in the direction of gravity, vertical displacement of a portion other than the main body of the device and the control accuracy of the assist force is enhanced accordingly, thereby improving the assisting feel sensed by the user P.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ikeuchi
  • Patent number: 8585620
    Abstract: A powered orthotic system includes a wearable component having a brace with a first section and a second section. The first and second sections are coupled to each other at a pivot. Each section is adapted to be removably attached to a corresponding first and second limb segment such that the pivot is proximate to a joint between each limb segment. The first and the second sections are movable with respect to each other to define flexion and extension directions. The wearable component also includes an electromyographic sensor, an electrically powered actuator assembly in communication with the electromyographic sensor, and a controller in communication with the actuator assembly that provides system parameters to control operation of the actuator assembly. The actuator assembly is coupled to the first and the second sections so as to apply a force that moves the first and the second sections in the flexion and/or extension directions and the force is based on signals from the electromyographic sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Myomo, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. McBean, Kailas Narendran
  • Patent number: 8574137
    Abstract: An upper limb training device includes a first rod, a second rod, a third rod, a first resilient element, and a second resilient element. The second rod is pivoted to the first rod by a first revolution element. The third rod is pivoted to the second rod by a second revolution element. Two ends of the first resilient element respectively connect with the first rod and the third rod for providing resistance when the first rod and the second rod rotate relative to the third rod. Two ends of the second resilient element respectively connect with the first rod and the third rod for providing resistance when the first rod rotates relative to the second rod. The first revolution element is disposed between two connecting points at which the first resilient element and the second resilient element connect with the first rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: National Taiwan University
    Inventors: Dar-Zen Chen, Shu-Yi Wang, Tzong-Ming Wu
  • Patent number: 8574176
    Abstract: A rehabilitation supporting device 1 includes a first frame 11 arranged along a first skeletal portion extending from a joint, a second frame 12 arranged along a second skeletal portion extending from the joint in a direction different from a direction of the first skeletal portion, an angle sensor 131 arranged to detect a rotational angle position between the first frame and the second frame, a flexion-side biosignal sensor 14 arranged to detect a biosignal of a flexor, an extension-side biosignal sensor 15 arranged to detect a biosignal of an extensor, a calibration unit 31 arranged to determine a flexion-side correction value and an extension-side correction value individually, and a memory unit 34 arranged to store individual correction values of the biosignals different for individuals, the flexion-side correction value, and the extension-side correction value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: University of Tsukuba
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Sankai
  • Publication number: 20130289452
    Abstract: A method of operating an exoskeleton device includes: receiving sensor information; connecting a clutch system to a pulley system in; determining whether to engage a drive train gear to the clutch system based on the sensor information; engaging the drive train gear through the clutch system when determined to engage the drive train gear; and powering a first motor to drive the drive train gear for controlling a joint or segment of exoskeleton device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Jon Smith, Kern Bhugra
  • Patent number: 8551027
    Abstract: In the assist device, the output of an actuator is adjusted so that it becomes lower as a state of charge of a battery exceeds a first threshold value, and also so that it becomes lower as the state of charge of the battery becomes lower. The output of the actuator is controlled on the basis of the state of charge of the battery, so that it is possible to make the agent recognize the change in the state of charge of the battery by changing the output of the actuator, and as a result, to avoid the situation where the agent feels strange with respect to stopping the operation of the assist device following thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yosuke Endo, Keishiro Kikuchi, Ritsuo Hara
  • Patent number: 8545420
    Abstract: The invention relates to a rehabilitation device which guides a patient to perform a motion with a correct spatial trajectory, by the device applying one or more pushing, assisting, reminding, responding and/or resisting forces during a motion (or intent to move) by the patient. The forces are applied by an actuator, for example, a robotic articulated arm or a spherically jointed lever. The applied forces act as a force fields, optionally continuous, which impeded and/or guides a patient. The device can be programmable with various trajectories (paths and/or velocities) and/or forces. The forces at one point in the trajectory can vary responsive to an actual trajectory by the patient and/or responsive to a rehabilitation plan and/or improvement of the patient. The device can learn a motion entered by a physiotherapist and replay it for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Motorika Limited
    Inventors: Omer Einav, Haim Einav, Benny Rousso, Doron Shabanov, Eran Katzir, Gad Binyamini
  • Patent number: 8545373
    Abstract: A human shoulder stretcher and method of use for gradual, progressive posterior capsular stretching to rehabilitate the shoulder, in particular to address tightness of the posterior capsule of the glenohumeral joint through use of a lever arm and ratcheting mechanism that permits a patient to stretch his or her shoulder without the need for a therapist present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: Peter Scott Borden
  • Patent number: 8540652
    Abstract: The present invention relates a system and method to allow users to train different joints of a limb in different planes. The rotation of the system can be driven by a motor to assist or resist the motion for training purpose. By the present invention, the user can use the device to switch training between the vertical and horizontal planes, without changing the device and any module. The system is also adjustable to meet different users' body sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
    Inventors: Kai Yu Tong, Rong Song, Chiu Hoi Lam, Wai Man Tam, Shu To Ng, Tak Chi Lee, Man Kit Peter Pang, King Lun Kwok, Yin Bonn Philip Tsui, Woon Fong Wallace Leung
  • Publication number: 20130245511
    Abstract: A robotic module which can be attached to an exercise apparatus provides enhanced physical therapy for victims of stroke or other maladies or accidents by simulating normal or arbitrarily modified profiles of angular position of an extremity such as a foot in accordance with a position of that extremity along a locus of repetitive motion. A closed-loop control system which is included in the module provides regulation which reduces or avoids spastic responses often found in poststroke patients during gait rehabilitation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventors: Peter E. PIDCOE, Jeffery A. FRANKART, Jessica Cortney BRADFORD
  • Publication number: 20130245510
    Abstract: A physical therapy device, in one form, provides rotation, flexion and stretching to rehabilitate patients undergoing physical therapy. The physical rehabilitation apparatus can comprise a base and a track coupled to the base with the track configured to slide along the base. The apparatus can further comprise a bearing coupled to the track, the bearing allowing rotational movement about an axis substantially perpendicular to the track and a tread coupled to the bearing. In one form, the apparatus works with a number of attachments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: Abel B. Zaborowski
  • Publication number: 20130237883
    Abstract: A biomedical device (1) for robotized rehabilitation of a human upper limb, particularly for neuromotor rehabilitation of the shoulder and elbow joint, includes a first rigid rod (2) and a second rigid rod (3), both of which can be associated with the upper limb (4) of a patient (5) and are articulated to each other at two adjacent ends (2a, 3a) thereof by way of a first universal joint (6) which can be arranged proximate to the elbow joint (7) of the upper limb (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2011
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: C.N.R. CONSIGLIO NAZIONALE RICERCHE
    Inventors: Matteo Malosio, Nicola Molinari Pedrocchi, Lorenzo Molinari Tosatti
  • Patent number: 8529479
    Abstract: A shoulder continuous passive motion (“CPM”) device is provided. The shoulder CPM has a motor and a drive mechanism configured to move a slidable arm holder linearly back and forth. The motor can move the drive mechanism linearly back and forth. The drive mechanism can be attached to the arm holder. A user can insert at least a portion of his arm into the arm holder, such that the shoulder CPM device moves his arm linearly back and forth, thereby providing therapeutic treatment to the shoulder of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Robert A. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20130190662
    Abstract: An apparatus for closed kinetic chain muscle strengthening and/or rehabilitation of the shoulder joint and of the upper limb includes a device for positioning the user or patient, a working assembly having a resistor, allowing the user or patient to exert efforts, support device which connects the working assembly to the positioning device, and which is fitted with an adjustor for positioning and orienting the working assembly in space. The support device and also the adjustor are configured such that the resistor can be positioned, relative to the user or patient, above and laterally on the side of the limb to be worked, which is positioned outstretched, raised in the plane of the scapula until it is along the extension of the subcutaneous part of the spine of the scapula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 25, 2013
    Applicant: EUROPHYSEO
    Inventors: Thierry Stevenot, Mathias Lubin
  • Publication number: 20130184616
    Abstract: Mobility devices are provided that enable a user to walk when the user's lower leg is in a non-functioning condition. A mobility device includes a main body, a lower leg support, an upper leg support, and a foot. The main body can be secured to a lateral side of the user's upper leg with the upper leg support. The lower leg support is connected to the main body and supports the user's lower leg. The foot is connected to a lower end of the main body and is configured to engage the ground. The foot may have a split foot configuration with a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the foot is positioned rearward of the main body and the second portion of the foot is positioned forward of the main body. Each of the first and second foot portions may have an arcuately shaped profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Michael R. Sanders, Jonathan Mark Roberts, Benjamin Scott Avery
  • Publication number: 20130184617
    Abstract: To provide a muscle strength training apparatus with a simple structure and low production cost and a muscle strength training method, wherein the apparatus and the method are capable of conducting muscle strength training that acts on both flexion and extension with load decreasing when the muscle is fatigued, and are safe without excessive force being applied on joints or muscles because no load is applied when movement is stopped. [Solution] This muscle strength training apparatus is provided with a first fitted part (1) that is fitted along the femur of the user and a second fitted part (2) that is fitted along the lower leg of the user. The first fitted part (1) is pivotally attached to the second fitted part (2) by means of bolts (30a, 31a) and nuts (30b, 31b). The first fitted part (1) and the second fitted part (2) are connected via an oil damper (3). The oil damper (3) is disposed on the side opposite the side of lower leg flexion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2011
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Tomohiko Inaba
  • Patent number: 8485996
    Abstract: A method and system are presented for improving the object's motion. Data indicative of a measured motion of the object is processed, and a relation between the measured motion and a predetermined correct motion is determined. This relation is indicative of an error in the measured motion. Based on the determined error, an operating signal may be generated to be used to apply an effecting force to the object. The operating signal is such that the effecting force, when applied to the object, will increase a value of the error in the object's motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Bioxtreme Ltd.
    Inventor: Nini Bluman
  • Patent number: 8485994
    Abstract: A physical therapy system featuring a leg portion and at least one arm portion, wherein the leg portion comprises a base with two half cylinders, each divided into two portions that can pivot via hinges operatively connected to motors, wherein the two half cylinders can also pivot about their first ends via a first central motor, and wherein the arm portion comprises a base with a half cylinder divided into two portions that can pivot via a hinge operatively connected to a motor, wherein the half cylinder can also pivot about its first end via a second central motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Erb
  • Patent number: 8480602
    Abstract: Rehabilitation apparatus for use with unweighting apparatus including a vest having shoulder straps connected to the unweighting apparatus. Also included are a pair of thigh cuffs having resistance straps connected to the unweighting apparatus and a pair of foot straps having gait straps connected to the unweighting apparatus. An elongate roll is suspended from the vest and extends across the patient adjacent the pelvis area of the patient. The resistance straps and gait straps are threaded through loops provided on the front fact of the elongate roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Gerry Cook
  • Patent number: 8469907
    Abstract: A slider configured to reduce the wear of rotating bodies and an arc-shaped rail. The slider 32 includes: an insertion portion 321 inserted into the arc-shaped rail 31 through the slit 314; a first rotating body 342 which rolls on the outer peripheral wall 312, and a second rotating body 341 which rolls on the inner peripheral wall 311, wherein the second rotating body 341 includes a pair of lateral rotating bodies 411 disposed in both ends in the width direction and a central rotating body 412 disposed in the central portion in the width direction so as to be displaced in the sliding direction from the lateral rotating bodies 411 and wherein the lateral rotating bodies 411 and the central rotating body 412 are pivotally supported by a pivot member 51 provided so as to be swingable in the sliding direction in an insertion portion 321.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Satoru Ichihashi, Yoshihisa Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8460222
    Abstract: Rotation mechanism for a forearm which includes a moving stay (2) which supports a wrist, which includes at least one guide track in the form of an arc of a circle, a fixed stay (4) which supports the rear end of a forearm, rods (12) that are rigid lengthwise which link the moving stay (2) and the fixed stay (4) and which allow the moving stay (2) and fixed stay (4) to rotate around a longitudinal axis (Z), by means of articulated links which can rotate (14), and a strut (6) rigidly linked at one of its ends to the fixed stay (4), and linked at its other end to a roller-bearing, whose rollers are in rolling contact with the guide track of the moving stay (2), and which cause the moving stay (2) to pivot around a longitudinal axis (Z), where the direction of said longitudinal axis (Z) passes through the centre of the arc of the circle of the guide track and through the centre of a circle defined by the ends of rods linked to the fixed stay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique
    Inventor: Philippe Garrec
  • Publication number: 20130131560
    Abstract: A torso assist orthotic device configured to be worn by a user requiring assistance in holding his torso in a vertical position and returning the his torso to a vertical position from a forward bent over position. The torso assist orthotic device includes an upper body engaging portion that is open in the front in the abdominal and pelvic areas. A lower body engaging portion is custom formed to the wearer's lower extremities. A hinged connection at each side has a spring assist device in engagement. The spring assist device is selectively disengagable, such that when the spring assist device is engaged, the spring assist device provides resistance to forward movement of the user's torso and urges the user's torso back into alignment with the user's lower body. The spring assist device includes a self-latching spring engagement/disengagement device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: Applied Neural Mechanics, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel L. Ferguson, Lowell Mick N. Batton
  • Patent number: 8439854
    Abstract: An ankle therapy device provides variable loading on targeted muscles and tendons, by utilizing a variable length moment arm to which the load is attached, and having the ability to change the angle of the load with respect to the orientation of the user's foot. Thus, the device provides a variable resistance on the ankle muscles and tendons when the ankle is moved, and may target different muscles and tendons by changing the angle of the resistance. The device comprises a member to which the user's foot is attached, and a rotatably attached weight support member to which a weight is secured. The position of the weight may be shifted along the length of the weight support member, and the amount of weight may be changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Timothy Terrio
  • Publication number: 20130116605
    Abstract: A rotator cuff therapy device assists a user in accomplishing orbital motion of the user's arm to provide a therapeutic effect that strengthens and rehabilitates the arms, shoulders, and related joints and tissues. The device may be adjustable so that an unevenly-weighted rotatable portion can be moved along a desired path with varying speed and effort according to a pre-selected friction setting, and while being held in different positions relative to the user's body. This allows the device to be used by people with varying degrees of dexterity, strength, or injury, while targeting different tissues for therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventor: Link A. Dephouse
  • Publication number: 20130116604
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of supporting arrangements, devices or systems for the rehabilitation and treatment of patients or animals suffering from motor disabilities resulting from surgery, chronic disorders, accidents and the like. More specifically, the present invention refers to aerial or overhead supporting arrangements, devices or systems that allow the patient or animal under treatment to remain suspended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Inventors: Horacio Alberto MORILLA, Rosa Virginia RUGIERO, Jorge Alberto FANTIN, Graciela Ines SILVA
  • Patent number: 8425438
    Abstract: A motion assist apparatus is provided with an attaching member that has a glove shape with finger portions and a middle hand portion that is attachable to one of hands of a user, a back-side actuator that is freely expanded and contracted, and bridged between a tip of each of the finger portions and the middle hand portion on the back side of the attaching member, and a palm-side actuator that is freely expanded and contracted, and bridged between the tip of each of the finger portions and the middle hand portion on the palm side of the attaching member, and in this structure, the palm-side actuator is provided with a wire unit formed of two wires that are disposed on each of the finger portions on the palm side from the tip of each of the finger portions on the back side to the middle hand portion along the finger portion, passing through two side portions of the finger portion, so that intervals therebetween are made different at respective positions corresponding to joints of the finger portion, and rubber
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Activelink Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromichi Fujimoto, Go Shirogauchi, Keisuke Ueda, Motoshi Hori, Tatsuro Mizutani