Abstract: A pivoting hinge assembly for an orthotic device for a knee joint afflicted with osteoarthritis, thus reducing pain and improving mobility, comprising: a proximal subunit, a distal subunit, an energy storage element capable of generating significant forces around the joint, and a tension adjustable geared hinge assembly. Four embodiments are disclosed of hinge assemblies useable with the knee brace, or other types of braces. The hinge assemblies comprise: two subunits housing intermeshed gears, and at least one elastic band extending between the hinge subunits over a cam surface above the gears. In three embodiments, U-shaped connectors secure the subunits and gears together, and the subunits may comprise a user mechanism that adjusts the elastic band's tension and thus the amount of weight unloaded, then releases it.

Abstract: A wearable device for assisting in the movement of lower limbs that includes an anchor component configured to encircle the torso of a user and be supported by the shoulders through a harness/suspender that provides both postural support and proprioceptive input. The wearable device may have one or more elastic cords disposed on the anchor component and a means for aligning the one or more elastic cords. Each cord may have a first and second attachment component on each end, which may attach to a first shoe and a second shoe of the user. Lowering the cord end by the attachment component may cause the other cord end to rise.

Abstract: A motorized tensioning mechanism for orthotic devices, such as a knee brace, wherein the controls for the motorized tensioning mechanism may be manual, automatic, or a hybrid of both. Sensors associated with the orthotic device may inform the user regarding tension or other aspects of the device, and, in cases, may automatically adjust tension in the motorized tensioning mechanism.

Abstract: An actuator includes a plurality of power transmitters configured to transmit power sequentially, and an elastic element configured to connect a first power transmitter and a second power transmitter that are adjacent to each other and perform a coaxial rotation motion, among the plurality of power transmitters.

Abstract: An exoskeleton includes a frame; and an actuation system. The actuation system includes a transmission device; a passive joint mechanism connecting the frame to the transmission device, the passive joint mechanism having a four-bar linkage; and a drive system couples the passive joint mechanism to the transmission device, and is arranged to drive the transmission device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for recognizing a motion of a user are provided. The apparatus may map each of right leg angle information and left leg angle information to context information by comparing each of the right leg angle information and left leg angle information to a comparison value and/or preset threshold, may generate a motion event corresponding to the context information based on a criterion, and may recognize the motion of the user based on the motion event and a previous motion of the user.

Abstract: A training device and a training method for reducing hypertonic are disclosed. The training device includes a base, a driving circuit, two pedals, a control circuit, and a switch circuit. The driving circuit is fixed on the base. Each of the two pedals is coupled to the base. The driving circuit drives each of the two pedals to swing repeatedly between a first position and a second position relative to the base. When the control circuit executes a training program, the control circuit actuates the driving circuit.

Abstract: A human-computer interface system having an exoskeleton including a plurality of structural members coupled to one another by at least one articulation configured to apply a force to a body segment of a user, the exoskeleton comprising a body-borne portion and a point-of-use portion; the body-borne portion configured to be operatively coupled to the point-of-use portion; and at least one locomotor module including at least one actuator configured to actuate the at least one articulation, the at least one actuator being in operative communication with the exoskeleton.

Abstract: A method for moving an exoskeleton from a seated position to a standing position (and vice versa) in which none of the degrees of freedom of the exoskeleton is non-actuated. The method includes the implementation by a data processor of steps of: (a) generating a trajectory of the exoskeleton from the seated position to the standing position (and vice versa), the trajectory being parameterised as a function of time; (b) applying to the trajectory a set of virtual constraints on the actuated degrees of freedom, the virtual constraints being parameterised by a phase variable; and (c) running a controller of the exoskeleton associated with the set of virtual constraints such that the exoskeleton moves from the seated position to the standing position (and vice versa), the controller being capable of generating commands for the actuators so as to comply with the virtual constraints during the trajectory.

Abstract: An assist device includes: a first harness to be fitted to at least one of a shoulder region and a breast region of a user; a second harness configured to be fitted to one of a leg region and a waist region, of the user; a belt body provided so as to extend to the first harness and to the second harness along a back side of the user; an actuator provided in one of the first harness and the second harness; and a controller performs operation control of the actuator. The actuator winds a part of the belt body and unwinds the part of the belt body. The controller performs the operation control of the actuator based on a posture change of the user.

Abstract: A positioning device for a portable fitness equipment mainly provides a support frame for hanging the portable fitness equipment. The support frame includes a base and a support rod connected to each other, and there is an obtuse angle between the base and the support rod. The obtuse angle design allows the position where the support rod is connected to the base to bear less torque, which can effectively prevent the support rod from shaking or damage; and the portable fitness equipment can slide or can be fixed on the support rod, allowing users to adjust the portable fitness equipment to the most suitable height.

Abstract: A method of controlling an exoskeleton mobility device includes executing a control application with an electronic controller to perform: sensing at least one of an angular position or angular velocity of a stance/trailing leg during a single support dynamic state of a gait cycle; determining whether the angular position satisfies an advanced gait threshold; and when it is determined that the angular position satisfies the advanced gait threshold, the control system employs advanced gait control in which a duration of double support states between single support dynamic states is minimized. For advanced gait control the control system controls such that hip joint component velocities are non-zero during transitions from swing states to stance states, and knee joint component velocities are non-zero during transitions from stance states to swing states of the gait cycle.

Abstract: An integrated functional electrical stimulation (FES) system includes a component of a mobility assistance device, and an FES system mounted within the component. The FES system includes an FES stimulator that is embedded within the component, and a plurality of FES jacks that are electrically connected to the FES stimulator and are located on the component. The FES jacks are configured to receive a plurality of FES electrodes, and an electrical stimulation output from the FES stimulator is conducted through the FES jacks to the FES electrodes. In a wireless embodiment, the FES stimulator is configured to wirelessly transmit a control signal for applying an electrical stimulation output to the plurality of FES electrodes, and the FES jacks are eliminated. The FES stimulator may be embedded within a back portion of the hip component of an exoskeleton device, and in the wired embodiment the FES jacks are located on wing portions of the hip component.

Abstract: A knee rehabilitation machine with multi-position synchronous force application includes a bottom box, a vertical box, and a suspension box. The vertical box is vertically arranged at an end of the bottom box, and an upper end of the vertical box is horizontally fixed with the suspension box. A pressing unit swing lever mechanism is arranged in the bottom box, and a vibration unit, a pulling unit, and a transmission mechanism of a pressing unit are arranged in the vertical box.

Abstract: An adjustable knee ankle foot orthosis for unloading weight from a knee joint afflicted with osteoarthritis, thus reducing pain and improving mobility, comprising: an upper and lower frame connected by an unloading hinge assembly, optionally comprising a sensor and processor allowing for remote or automatic control of brace tension. In embodiments, the brace includes a user mechanism that is capable of adjusting a tensioning element while the brace is being worn. In other embodiments, electronic motors, sensors, and indicators may be included in the brace to improve brace performance and user interaction.

Abstract: An adjustable tension knee brace for unloading weight from a knee joint afflicted with osteoarthritis, thus reducing pain and improving mobility, comprising: an upper and lower rigid posterior portion, anterior straps, and a tension adjustable geared hinge assembly. Four embodiments are disclosed of hinge assemblies useable with the knee brace, or other types of braces. The hinge assemblies comprise: two subunits housing intermeshed gears, and at least one elastic band extending between the hinge subunits over a cam surface above the gears. In three embodiments, U-shaped connectors secure the subunits and gears together, and the subunits may comprise a user mechanism that adjusts the elastic band's tension and thus the amount of weight unloaded, then releases it. Another embodiment comprises a core bracket to protect the band(s) and a mechanism to compress the elastic band at various points to increase the amount of tension, and with a quick release mechanism.

Abstract: There is disclosed a mobility aid for use by a user having a lower body amputation site. The mobility aid includes a lower body exoskeleton (LBE). The LBE has a pelvic support structure and a first leg and a second leg. Each of the first and second legs are movably coupled to the pelvic support structure, wherein at least the first and second legs are selectively actuable to move the lower body exoskeleton relative to a surface on which the mobility aid is positioned. The LBE also includes a carrier selectively positionable with respect to the lower body exoskeleton and, which in use, supports the user at or about an amputation site; and a harness system configured to, when in use, secure the user to the lower body exoskeleton.

Abstract: A system and method to assist a user to overcome an interruption of service between the brain and the legs including several subsystems configured to be progressively removed to provide decreasing levels of lower trunk and leg support.

Abstract: A motion assistance apparatus includes a waist frame configured to support a waist of a user, and a proximal support configured to support a proximal part of the user. A pressure applied to a thigh of the user by the proximal support in a sitting state in which the user is sitting may be greater than a pressure applied to the thigh of the user by the proximal support in a standing state in which the user is standing upright.

Abstract: A walking assistant robot, comprising a main frame body (1), a foot walking mechanism for alternating walking, an auxiliary device (2) and a control device; the walking mechanism, the auxiliary device (2) and the control device are all disposed on the main frame body (1); the control device is connected with the walking mechanism; the auxiliary device (2) includes auxiliary feet (201), and the auxiliary feet (201) are disposed in front of and/or behind the walking mechanism along the walking direction. The foot walking mechanism is used to realize the basic function of the robot walking forward; auxiliary feet (201) are disposed in the walking direction such that the walking mechanism still has, at the moment of foot alternation, multiple supporting points in contact with the ground. Therefore, the mechanism is slip-and-fall-resistant, stable and reliable and guarantees the user safety.

Abstract: Proposed is a seating-type gait rehabilitation robot improved in entry characteristics, and more particularly to a seating-type gait rehabilitation robot improved in entry characteristics, of which a structure is concise and simple, and in which a footrest on which a trainee can put his/her foot has the minimum height to allow the trainee to easily enter and readily use the robot without any separate entry means for entry of the trainee and is placed at an entry side for the trainee to raise a gait training effect and reduce a collision risk.

Abstract: A leg support exoskeleton is strapped on as wearable device to support its user during squatting. The exoskeleton includes a knee joint connected to a first line and a second link, which is configured to allow flexion and extension motion between the first link and the second link. A force generator has a first end that is rotatably connected to the first link. A constraining mechanism is connected to the second link and has at least two operational positions. In a first operational position, the second end of the force generator engages the constraining mechanism, where the first link and the second link flex relative to each other. In a second operational position, the second end of the force generator does not engage the constraining mechanism; the first link and the second link are free to flex and extend relative to each other.

Abstract: Some implementations can include a mechanical passive exoskeleton for the support, endurance, and physical health of laboring workers, operators with reduced strength in extremities, and operators in need of assist when rising to a standing position. The exoskeleton can assist in bending, crouching, lifting, and other repetitive motions via resistance within the flex chain and flex cartridge assemblies and lumbar support from the resistive nested spinal assembly.

Abstract: An automated walker assembly includes a housing having a perimeter wall with a front side, a rear side, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. A plurality of wheel mounts is attached to the housing and a plurality of wheels is attached to the wheel mounts. A pair of handles is attached to the housing for gripping by a user of the assembly. A plurality of drive assemblies is mounted to the housing to control the housing. The drive assemblies include a propulsion drive mechanically coupled to at least one of the wheels and a direction drive is mechanically coupled to at least one of the wheels to define a directional wheel. The propulsion and direction drives propel the assembly over a ground surface. An interface electrically coupled to each of the drive assemblies selectively actuates each of the drive assemblies.

Abstract: A powered prosthetic thigh can have a proximal portion configured to couple to a prosthetic hip socket and can have a distal portion attached to the proximal portion. The distal portion can have a distal connector configured to couple to a prosthetic knee. The powered prosthetic thigh can also have a computer controlled actuator configured to rotate the prosthetic thigh relative to the prosthetic hip socket.

Abstract: Provided is a walking training apparatus which includes: a main body to be ridden by a walking trainee; a footrest part coupled to the main body rotatably to support feet of the walking trainee; and an upper body support part coupled to the main body at a position spaced apart from the footrest part to support an upper body of the walking trainee and thus disperse load supported by the footrest part, wherein the upper body support part supports an armpit and a forearm of the walking trainee.

Abstract: A walking assistant harness attached to a leg of a trainee so as to assist walking of the trainee includes: a thigh frame placed along a front side or a rear side of a thigh of the trainee; and a thigh fixation belt connected to the thigh frame at a connection portion, so as to fix the thigh of the trainee to the thigh frame, and the connection portion includes a connecting position adjustment mechanism configured to adjust a connecting position with the thigh fixation belt in a right-left direction of the trainee.

Abstract: An assistance apparatus includes first to eighth wires that couple an upper body belt to be worn on an upper body of a user to a first knee belt and a second knee belt to be worn above a left knee and a right knee of the user, respectively, and a motor. In a case of assisting the user in moving to turn left, the motor generates a tension larger than or equal to a first threshold in each of the second wire, the third wire, and the fourth wire at an identical timing in a swing phase of a left leg of the user, and generates a tension larger than or equal to the first threshold in each of the fifth wire, the sixth wire, and the eighth wire at an identical timing in a swing phase of a right leg of the user.

Abstract: A motion assist device for assisting a motion such as a walking motion of a user includes: a pair of femoral part support units (3L, 3R) configured to be worn by two femoral parts of a user, a single power source (4, 70) for producing power and a power transmission unit (20; 60; 91, 92) for transmitting the power of the power source to the femoral part support units as an opposite phase motion, wherein the power transmission unit includes a differential unit (22; 63, 64; 93, 94) for accommodating a same phase motion of the two femoral part support units. The device may further include a control unit (5) configured to actuate the power source when the femoral part support units are undergoing the opposite phase motion, and to keep the output end of the power source stationary when the femoral part support units are undergoing the same phase motion.

Abstract: The invention relates to an exoskeleton including: a foot structure; a lower leg structure; a mechanical knee link having a pivot axis; and a mechanical ankle link connecting the foot structure to the lower leg structure and including a first pivot connection having a first pivot axis that is substantially parallel to the pivot axis of the mechanical knee link, and a second pivot connection having a second pivot axis that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis and forms an angle of between 30° and 60° with the support plane when the exoskeleton is upright and at rest.

Abstract: Electrosurgical procedures. At least some of the example methods for detecting that an electrosurgical wand is effected by a blockage, including supplying a high frequency energy to an active electrode of an electrosurgical wand; drawing an electrically conductive fluid from the vicinity of the active electrode; sensing a temperature signal indicative of a temperature of the electrically conductive fluid drawn from the vicinity of the active electrode; and cycling the high frequency energy supplied upon the temperature of the electrically conductive fluid drawn from the vicinity of the active electrode exceeding a first threshold temperature.

Abstract: Provided is a motion assistance apparatus including a first support configured to support a first part of a user, a connection link rotatably connected to the first support, a second support configured to support a second part of a user, and a distance adjustment assembly configured to adjust a distance from the second support to the connection link.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a method may include monitoring use of a medical device. The method may include positioning a wearable harness of a medical device on a subject. The method may include selectively positioning at least some of a plurality of engines on and/or adjacent to at least one treatment area. The method may include applying an oscillation force to at least one of the treatment areas using at least some of the engines. The method may include mobilizing at least some secretions in an airway within the subject substantially adjacent to the treatment areas. The method may include monitoring use of the medical device by the subject using a controller associated with the medical device to determine if the medical device has been used effectively as prescribed.

Abstract: A stretching machine includes a table having a surface for supporting a patient and a first leg rest for supporting and moving a first leg of the patient. The first leg rest has a first vertical frame operable to rotate around a first horizontal pivot point at an end of the table and a first horizontal frame operable to rotate around a first vertical pivot point on the first vertical frame. A first vertical actuator is for rotating the first vertical frame around the first horizontal pivot point to move the first leg rest in a vertical direction relative to the surface of the table, and a first horizontal actuator is for rotating the first horizontal frame around the first vertical pivot point to move the first leg rest in a horizontal direction relative to the first vertical frame.

Abstract: A frame assembly including a first longitudinal member, a second longitudinal member spaced apart from the first longitudinal member, a third longitudinal member configured to diagonally connect the first longitudinal member and the second longitudinal member, a plurality of first distance maintaining members configured to connect the first longitudinal member and the second longitudinal member, and a plurality of second distance maintaining members configured to connect the second longitudinal member and the third longitudinal member is disclosed.

Abstract: A lower extremity wearable, that functions as a walk-aid, for those with a limited ability to walk, or those incapable of walking unassisted. The walk-aid also provides for other functions curtailed by paraplegia, and other health issues. The wearable is complemented with added utilities that_aid with the everyday use of the walk-aid. With low to average flexibility of legs, and the ability to stand for a period of time, the user will be able to simulate a walking motion with recurrent swings of a handle, regardless of disability. In contrast to other walk-aids currently available, the functions of the walk-aid are achieved without any motorization, computerization or outside power source.

Abstract: A counterbalance system for an exoskeleton is provided, including a first hip joint to displace an external load experienced by a user above a waist of the user, the first hip joint provides for three degrees of freedom of movement, a tool interface located above the first hip joint to direct load displacement through the first hip joint, and a counterbalance arm having a first end and a second end, the counterbalance arm is secured to the tool interface at the first end, the second end of the counterbalance arm is moveable in an arcuate rotational path ranging from in front of the tool interface to behind the tool interface. Another system and method are also provided.

Abstract: An exoskeleton designed to be worn by a user is generally configured to support and transfer the load supported by the head, the neck and/or the torso (shoulders, chest and/or back) of the user down to the ground. The exoskeleton is generally passive and includes at least three interconnected sections: torso, hip, and leg sections. Each of the sections generally includes of a plurality of interconnected rigid members which form the load-bearing structure of the exoskeleton. When a user wears the exoskeleton, load normally carried by the head, neck and/or torso of the user is at least partially supported and transferred to the ground by the exoskeleton, thereby reducing the load effectively supported by the user itself. The leg sections of the exoskeleton are designed to ensure that the load is entirely transferred to the inner side of the feet, in accordance with human biomechanics.

Abstract: An exoskeleton trajectory sequence is received with at least one server, and the sequence is transferred to a first device where the sequence is validated. The validation includes a safety check in which a determination is made as to whether the sequence is safe for use with an exoskeleton. The validated sequence, or a confirmation that the sequence is valid, is received from the first device, and the validated sequence is offered for sale, license or lease. In one embodiment, a request for the sequence to be transferred is received from a first exoskeleton user. The sequence is validated and transferred to a second exoskeleton user. In another embodiment, a request for the sequence to be edited is received from an exoskeleton user. The sequence is edited, validated and transferred to the exoskeleton user.

Abstract: An exoskeleton designed to be worn by a user is generally configured to support and transfer the load supported by the head, the neck and/or the torso (shoulders, chest and/or back) of the user down to the ground. The exoskeleton is generally passive and includes at least three interconnected sections: torso, hip, and leg sections. Each of the sections generally includes of a plurality of interconnected rigid members which form the load-bearing structure of the exoskeleton. When a user wears the exoskeleton, load normally carried by the head, neck and/or torso of the user is at least partially supported and transferred to the ground by the exoskeleton, thereby reducing the load effectively supported by the user itself. The leg sections of the exoskeleton are designed to ensure that the load is entirely transferred to the inner side of the feet, in accordance with human biomechanics.

Abstract: In a joint assembly of a walking assistance robot that is capable of performing an operation with 3 degrees of freedom, similarly to a user's joint, a rolling motion and a sliding motion are simultaneously made, and a rotation center changes so that the joint assembly can make a similar motion to that of an actual knee joint of the user. Thus, when the user wears the walking assistance robot and walks, misalignment can be prevented from occurring in the knee joint.

Abstract: A wearable robotic exoskeleton system and method is provided to offer mobility to a user wherein the exoskeleton system implements at least a safety state and an operational state, and wherein when in the operational state, the user is enabled to control the gait implemented by the exoskeleton system by varying gripping pressure applied to external supports.

Abstract: A pneumatic lower extremity gait rehabilitation training system includes a support device for reducing the burden of supporting a user's body weight by lower extremity in a walking therapy, an exoskeleton rehabilitation device for adjusting the user's walking coordination at a treadmill, a center-of-gravity adjusting device for adjusting a change of upper and lower centers of gravity, and a remote monitoring device for receiving and capturing a signal of an angle displacement of a joint mechanism in a walking cycle. The user may support her/his body weight by the support device and the center-of-gravity adjusting device to reduce the gravity exerted onto the user's legs. The exoskeleton rehabilitation device improves the flexibility, safety and lightweight of walking and requires fewer driving elements. The remote monitoring device sends analyzed signals to the treadmill to adjust the user's walking speed, so as to improve the rehabilitation effect.

Abstract: A mobility system includes an energy module, an exoskeleton and a mobile base. The exoskeleton has an exoskeleton energy module receptacle that can receive the energy module, and the mobile base has a mobile base energy module receptacle that can also receive the energy module. In addition, the mobile base has an exoskeleton support that can support the exoskeleton on the mobile base so that the mobile base can transport the exoskeleton across a support surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for musculoskeletal stimulation allows independent electronic control of vibration parameters and overall biasing force so that an optimum combination of these parameters may be obtained regardless of the user's weight and without the need for adjustment of mechanical weights or springs.

Abstract: A driving module may include: an object fix member configured to be fixed to an object; a first sub-module including a body portion, connected to a first side of the object fix member, and a first rotating member, connected rotatably to the body portion; a second sub-module including an extension link, connected to a second side of the object fix member, and a second rotating member, connected rotatably to the extension link; and/or a power transmitting member connected to the first rotating member and the second rotating member, and configured to transmit power.

Abstract: A walking assistant device may calculate a walking cycle by measuring only motion of a specific joint without a force/torque sensor (F/T sensor) of a foot, and a method of controlling the walking assistant device. The method may include measuring motion of a hinge to which different support frames are connected; overlapping a reference trajectory corresponding to the measured motion and modulation trajectories that have been modulated from the reference trajectory; correcting the overlapping trajectory to correspond to the measured motion; determining assistant torque corresponding to a phase of the corrected trajectory; and providing the determined assistant torque to the support frame.

Abstract: A leg support exoskeleton is strapped on as wearable device to support its user during squatting. The exoskeleton includes a knee joint connected to a first line and a second link, which is configured to allow flexion and extension motion between the first link and the second link. A force generator has a first end that is rotatably connected to the first link. A constraining mechanism is connected to the second link and has at least two operational positions. In a first operational position, the second end of the force generator engages the constraining mechanism, where the first link and the second link flex relative to each other. In a second operational position, the second end of the force generator does not engage the constraining mechanism; the first link and the second link are free to flex and extend relative to each other.

Abstract: A powered device augments a joint function of a human during a gait cycle using a powered actuator that supplies an augmentation torque, an impedance, or both to a joint, and a controller that modulates the augmentation torque, the impedance, and a joint equilibrium according to a phase of the gait cycle to provide at least a biomimetic response. Accordingly, the device is capable of normalizing or augmenting human biomechanical function, responsive to a wearer's activity, regardless of speed and terrain.

Abstract: An exoskeleton system is disclosed including a hip joint to provide anatomically emulating three degrees of freedom of movement of the hip joint at a hip location of a user, a knee joint to provide anatomically emulating forward and backward movement of the knee joint at a knee location of the user, an ankle joint to provide anatomically emulating forward and backward movement of the ankle joint at an ankle location of the user, a knee rocker arm as part of the knee joint to transfer a load to a ground surface when the knee rocker arm is in contact with the ground surface as manually powered by the user, and a ground rocker arm as part of the ankle joint to transfer the load to a ground surface when the ground rocker arm is in contact with the ground surface as manually powered by the user.