Pulse Generator Patents (Class 601/48)
  • Patent number: 11847262
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for providing a haptic control signal of a haptic device are disclosed. The apparatus for providing a haptic control signal of a haptic device comprises: a haptic pattern data determination unit for determining haptic pattern data on the basis of at least one of an audio signal and an additional effect signal; a haptic control signal generation unit for generating a haptic control signal for controlling a vibration operation of the haptic device on the basis of the haptic pattern data; and a transmission unit for transmitting the haptic control signal to the haptic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: CK MATERIALS LAB CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hyeong Jun Kim, Ki Suk Son, Jong Hun Lee
  • Patent number: 11771618
    Abstract: A system and method for adaptive speech and biofeedback control of sexual stimulation devices. In an embodiment, the system and method involve receiving audio from a microphone, processing the audio through an automated speech detection engine to detect speech within the audio, matching the speech to a control command for a sexual stimulation device, generating a control signal for the sexual stimulation device based on the control command, receiving biometric data from a biometric sensor, and adjusting the control signals based on the biometric data before outputting the adjusted control signal for use in operating the sexual stimulation device. In some embodiments, the adjustment to the control signal is made automatically by a machine learning algorithm using the command and biometric data as inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Inventor: Brian Sloan
  • Patent number: 11045006
    Abstract: An inflatable footstool including a body made of flexible material, the body including a bottom surface and a leg supporting surface, the leg supporting surface being inclined with respect to the bottom surface, where the body forms an inner container filled with elastic compressible material, and an air valve coupled to the body, the air valve including an air inlet for sealing the inner container and for filling the inner container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Inventors: Guy Dolev, Idan Dolev
  • Patent number: 10736806
    Abstract: A massage chair includes a backrest, and two sets of massage arms assembled with the backrest and spaced apart from each other along a transversal axis of the backrest, each set including a first and a second massage arm that respectively have a first and a second contact member and are movable relative to each other. The method includes positioning the two sets of the massage arms such that at least the first contact members of the first massage arms contact a desired region of a user's body, actuating the two sets of the massage arms to perform a sequence of kneading pulses or a continuous kneading displacement from a wide state to a narrow state to apply a gripping action on the user's body, and stopping the two sets of the massage arms in the narrow state for a period of time to maintain the gripping action on the user's body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2020
    Assignees: OSIM INTERNATIONAL LTD, DAITO ELECTRIC MACHINE INDUSTRY CO., LTD
    Inventors: Kia Tong Tan, Tsuyoshi Sato, Yasushi Sone
  • Patent number: 10632040
    Abstract: Various embodiments of systems, devices, components, and methods for providing external therapeutic vibration stimulation to a patient are disclosed and described. Therapeutic vibration stimulation is provided to at least one location on a patient's skin, or through clothing or a layer disposed next to the patient's skin, and is configured to trigger or induce resonance or high amplitude oscillations in a cardiovascular system of the patient. Inducing such resonance can aid in training autonomic reflexes and improve their functioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2020
    Inventors: Frederick Muench, Steven G Dean
  • Patent number: 9027408
    Abstract: An elastomeric particle (1, 1, 1?) comprises a non-conducting elastomeric body (2) having an electrically conducting surface (4a, 4b, 6). Pressure sensor elements (20, 20?, 20?; 30, 30?, 30?, 30??) comprising such elastomeric particles are disclosed, as well as sensor clusters (50?, 50??, 50IV, 50V, 50VI, 50VII, 70) comprising such sensor elements. There is also disclosed a pressure sensor element (40, 40?, 40?, 40??, 40IV, 40V, 40VI, 40VII), comprising a resistive element (44, 44?, 44?) providing a conduction path, a first electrode (42a, 42a-1, 42a-2, 42a-3, 42a-4, 42a-5, 42a-6), connected to the resistive element, a second electrode (42b, 42b?), which in a quiescent state is spaced from said first electrode, wherein the second electrode, when the pressure sensor element is subjected to a pressure, is arranged to contact said first electrode or said resistive element. Systems comprising such sensor elements and sensor clusters are disclosed, as well as methods of their fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Swelling Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Landy Toth, Johan Wallen
  • Publication number: 20150119769
    Abstract: A wearable rhythmic device and method for imparting vibrational rhythms to the wearer is described. The device generally includes wearable band having a housing connected thereto, and a rhythm and vibration mechanism contained within the housing. Use of the device may induce different states of mind and physiological states in a wearer, varying from active and energetic alertness to relaxation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Alexander Z. Golbin, Leonid Danushevsky
  • Publication number: 20150119770
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to methods and systems for multi-mode personal massaging including a sensor unit configured to detect one or more biofeedback signals from a user of a personal massaging device or a partner. The system can further include a controller configured to analyze the one or more biofeedback signals, and determine one or more corresponding and modifiable outputs stored in a memory, based on the one or more biofeedback signals. The system can further include a massaging unit configured to output the one or more outputs determined by the controller, based on the one or more biofeedback signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventors: Jonathan Driscoll, Tamara Beth Harrison
  • Patent number: 9011700
    Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for generating energized water molecules and administering same to a human or other biological subject. The system includes a humidifying apparatus, and excitation apparatus, and a control system. The system may further include a fluid management system to assist in the delivery of energized water molecules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: eng3 Corporation
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Eng, Bruce William Adams
  • Publication number: 20150057583
    Abstract: An implantable device for mechanically stimulating the trabecular meshwork is disclosed. The device is implanted in the eye adjacent the trabecular meshwork. The device imparts mechanical stimulating in the form of vibrations or movement to the trabecular meshwork. The imparted mechanical stimulation causes the trabecular meshwork to move in a manner that produces a pumping action to remove aqueous from the anterior chamber of the eye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: ALCON RESEARCH, LTD.
    Inventors: Nicholas Max Gunn, Andrew David Johnson, Casey Jean Lind, Robert Joseph Sanchez, JR.
  • Patent number: 8956314
    Abstract: A portable massage device and method for reducing soreness in muscles or joints. The device includes a cage having a plurality of ventilation apertures that assist in cooling an internal motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Vibrasys Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Poh Teck Yeo, Poh Seng Yeo, Kai How Seet, Che Ooi Chiou
  • Publication number: 20140350441
    Abstract: A vibratory neural stimulation (VNS) system is provided to help relieve pain by applying preprogrammed or user defined patterns to the region having pain. The VNS system comprises of plurality of miniature vibration disks installed in a flexible material forming a vibration mesh. A programmable control unit (PCU) controls the vibration frequency and amplitude, and the period of activation of each vibrator. A user can search for the more effective vibration pattern to relieve his or her pain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2013
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventor: IMAN SHAFIELOO
  • Publication number: 20140350442
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for face for forming a relatively high potential difference between power terminals of different polarities without a voltage booster circuit to make a lot of current flow through human skin such that function of iontophoresis may be remarkably improved and simultaneously for driving electrically-driven modules of a mask individually without an external power supply to stimulate entirely or partially. The massage device for face includes a mask including an accommodation formed therein and a terminal exposing hole of a terminal for making current to human skin, and at least one electrically-driven module accommodated in the accommodation of the mask, exposing two terminals of different polarities to the outside through the terminal exposing hole, a driving unit having a rotary shaft and a coil wrapping the rotary shaft, and increasing a potential difference between the two terminals using an induced electromotive force of the coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2012
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Applicant: AMOREPACIFIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Changman Park, Changkeun Lee, Taehong Shin, Seunghwan Yi, Cheonghwan Hwang, Wooram Park, Taekjin Oh, Byungyoung Kang, Myeong Hun Yeom, Gayoung Cho
  • Publication number: 20140336548
    Abstract: The present invention presents a hypodermic injection apparatus and methods to introduce an agent to a human body in a less painful way by activating inhibitory mechanisms for pain perception. The apparatus comprises a vibration assembly that encircles a needle penetration site, a removable and disposable barrier device that isolates the apparatus from a recipient and from a needle, a mechanical assembly for syringe movement and a power and control electronics housed in a handle assembly. The vibration assembly generates and delivers vibration to the recipient through a resonant vibration chamber that contacts the recipient via the barrier device. A syringe needle penetrates the recipient's tissue through a linear tubular conduit axially located in the vibration chamber. The needle penetration site is encircled by vibration and the needle is enclosed by the barrier device while being retracted from the recipient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 12, 2013
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Inventor: Choon Kee Lee
  • Patent number: 8870796
    Abstract: An emergency method of using localized mechanical percussion for enhancing clearance of potentially life threatening acute thrombotic arterial obstructions blocking blood flow to vital internal organs such as the heart or brain of a patient, employing the application of non-invasive localized low frequency mechanical percussion at a frequency between 1 Hz-1000 Hz and a stroke or displacement amplitude in the range of 0.1-10 mm upon a targeted external body surface deemed generally proximate such acute thrombotic arterial obstruction, whereby the percussion accelerates the emergency clearance of the acute thrombotic arterial obstruction in restoration of blood flow to the vital internal organ. Preferred methods for percussion delivery to the chest wall/upper back or head/neck of a patient are described for use in treatment of heart attack or acute ischemic stroke respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: AHOF Biophysical Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Kenneth Hoffmann
  • Publication number: 20140309563
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a vibrating stimulus pad configured to easily attach to an unwell body region to which attachment is difficult such as a joint region. The vibrating stimulus pad of the present disclosure includes: a flexible main body; a drug layer attached to a bottom surface of the main body and formed of an additive mixed with a drug and formed of anti-inflammatory analgesic drugs; a vibrating module attached on a top surface of the main body and including a vibration motor and a battery; and a plurality of legs installed along the perimeter of the main body and being adhesive. Through this configuration in which the main body is formed of a flexible material, and the plurality of legs are adhesive and are attached along the perimeter of the main body, the vibrating stimulus pad may be easily attached on an unwell body region to which attachment is difficult such as a joint region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2012
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Amorepacific Corporation
    Inventors: Changman Park, Sungwon Yi, Changkeun Lee, Kwanghyun Shin, Taehong Shin, Seunghwan Yi, Taekjin Oh, Byungyoung Kang
  • Patent number: 8845561
    Abstract: The present technology is the use of the combination to treat a patient and the treatment of a patient. Sine waves are generated digitally by the combination. Data validation is used to ensure correct directional alignment prior to device activation. Patient safety and consistency in treatment protocols are considered in the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment design. A patient is treated with smooth sinusoidal waveform with a force of about 8 N to about 12.2 N with a Z-axis of acceleration (shear acceleration) of about 0.5 g to about 5g at about 5 Hertz (Hz) to about 200 Hertz. Treatment conditions can be varied depending upon the size of the patient, which includes human and veterinary patients. The method is non-invasive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventors: Aslam Khan, Geoffrey T. Desmoulin, Christopher J. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20140288364
    Abstract: A vibrator unit of a massage device of the present invention has a housing 101 with an upper portion configured to accept a variety of cup head attachments having varying predetermined designs and a jelly cap so as to vary the feel of the vibrator unit. The motor and control circuitry are configured for creating oscillatory vibrations and to utilize the magnetic repulsive force to create random oscillating motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Applicant: LoveMuah, LLC
    Inventor: Tiffany St. Bernard
  • Patent number: 8808207
    Abstract: A device and methods for treating a subject with dysphagia or other neurological disease, neurological disorder, neurological injury, neurological impairment or neurodegenerative disease that affects voluntary motor control of the hyoid, pharynx, larynx, or oropharyngeal area is disclosed. A device of the invention generally comprises a vibrotactile stimulator for applying at least one stimulus to the outside surface of a subject's neck; a connector for attaching the vibrotactile stimulator to an outside surface of the subject's neck, and a switch control communicatively connected to the vibrotactile stimulator to selectively engage a manual stimulation module and/or automatic stimulation module. Stimulation of an outside surface of the throat area of a subject by a device of the invention stimulates a swallowing reflex in the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventors: Christy Leslie Ludlow, Newlin Morgan, George Dold, Soren Lowell, Katie Dietrich-Burns
  • Patent number: 8777880
    Abstract: An airway clearance combines a force multiplying percussor and a self-applicator assembly. The percussor has an anvil, a hammer, a coil, and a pulse generator. The anvil has a force receiving surface and a force delivering surface. The hammer also has a force-receiving surface and a force-delivering surface, and is attached to the anvil such that the hammer's force delivering surface and the anvil's force receiving surface are mechanically free to come together or move apart. When energized with an electrical current, the coil forces the hammer's force delivering surface and the anvil's force receiving surface to separate. The pulse generator supplies pulses of electrical current to the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Susan B. Davis
  • Publication number: 20140194793
    Abstract: Aspects of the of the disclosure relate to a non-contact physiological motion sensor and a monitor device that can incorporate use of the Doppler effect. A continuous wave of electromagnetic radiation can be transmitted toward one or more subjects and the Doppler-shifted received signals can be digitized and/or processed subsequently to extract information related to the cardiopulmonary motion in the one or more subjects. The extracted information can be used, for example, to determine apneic events and/or snoring events and/or to provide apnea or snoring therapy to subjects when used in conjunction with an apnea or snoring therapy device. In addition, methods of use are disclosed for sway cancellation, realization of cessation of breath, integration with multi-parameter patient monitoring systems, providing positive providing patient identification, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: KAI MEDICAL, INC.
    Inventors: Robert Haruo Nakata, Isar Mostafanezhad, Scott Tadashi Miyasato, Erik Vossman
  • Publication number: 20140194790
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating facial soft tissues of a patient in a healthcare or cosmetic treatment environment such as, for example, a spa, clinic, or a medical practitioner's office are presented herein. The facial treatment system includes a facial stimulator instrument and/or an acoustic oscillator to deliver therapeutic stimulation to the facial tissues of a patient including percussive massage, electrical stimulation, and acoustic stimulation. A facial treatment application executing on a processor of a computing device identifies a treatment protocol and operates the facial stimulator instrument and/or acoustic oscillator to implement the facial tissue treatment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: Sigma Instruments Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: John Crunick, Tamas Becse, Louis L. Laskey, JR.
  • Publication number: 20140194792
    Abstract: An oral appliance for administering a stimulus, such as a substance, to the mouth of a user includes a flexible tube having an inlet portion, a first curved portion forming an ear loop connected to the inlet portion, a second curved portion forming a lip bend connected to the first curved portion, and an outlet portion extending from the second curved portion. Alternatively, a mouthpiece for delivering a substance to the mouth of a user includes a housing having an inlet portion, a riser portion extending upwardly from the inlet portion and a curved outlet portion. A flexible tube is coupled to the housing. A method of delivering a substance to a predetermined location in a user's mouth includes disposing a flexible tube between a row of teeth and an interior surface of a cheek. The flexible tube has an exit port positioned in a rear portion of the user's mouth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicants: University Of Western Ontario, Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Ruth E. Martin, Michael Nuttall, Michael A. Baran, George Baran, Bryan Finlay, Julie Theurer, Sarah Trotter
  • Patent number: 8747338
    Abstract: Devices, systems and methods are described which control blood pressure and nervous system activity by stimulating baroreceptors. By selectively and controllably activating baroreceptors and/or nerves, the present invention reduces blood pressure and alters the sympathetic nervous system; thereby minimizing deleterious effects on the heart, vasculature and other organs and tissues. A baroreceptor activation device or other sensory activation device is positioned near a dermal bone to provide the treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Sympara Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Joe Ehrenreich, Randolf von Oepen, Kelly Justin McCrystle
  • Patent number: 8617089
    Abstract: Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures include beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: So Sound Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Richard Barry Oser, Suzannah Long
  • Publication number: 20130338551
    Abstract: A device for volitional swallowing with a substitute sensory system comprises a band 101 wrapped around the neck with a vibrator 102 positioned over the larynx. Upon activation by a button 103 on a spoon 104 held by an operator, such as the subject 105, the vibrator 102 moves and vibrates the larynx. The patient 105 initiates the sensory stimulation immediately prior to the patient's own initiation of a swallow by viewing on a display screen 106 a movement feedback signal 107, possibly from a piezo-electric sensor 108 also contained in the band 101 which will also be displayed on the display screen 106. The signal 109 from the switch device initiating sensory stimulation will be presented on the same display screen 106 for the patient 105 and trainer to observe when the button or switch 103 is activated for sensory stimulation in relation to the onset of the swallow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Applicant: The Government of the United States of America, as represented by the Secretary, Department of Healt
    Inventors: Christy Leslie Ludlow, Newlin Morgan, George Dold, Soren Lowell
  • Publication number: 20130331747
    Abstract: A device and method coupled to a therapy garment to apply pressure and repetitive compression forces to a body of a person has an air pulsator and a user programmable time, frequency and pressure controller operable to regulate the duration of operation, frequency of the air pulses and a selected air pressure applied to the body of a person.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: LONNIE J. HELGESON, MICHAEL W. LARSON
  • Patent number: 8579839
    Abstract: Methods, devices and systems for recovering motor control of an area in the body of a patient affected by a neurological disorder. A device vibrotactilely stimulates a substitute site for the affected area thereby recovering the motor control of the affected area. The stimulation provided by the device is volitionally controlled by the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventors: Christy Ludlow, Christopher Poletto, Ianessa Humbert
  • Publication number: 20130281896
    Abstract: A device for stimulating a sleeper is disclosed. The device comprises a tactile electromechanical stimulator positioned against the sleeper's back proximate the sleeper's lower spine. The stimulator is actuated by a control circuit and powered by a power source. In one embodiment, the control circuit can be programmed to occasionally actuate the stimulator to promote more restful sleep. In one embodiment, the control circuit includes a receiver, and a transmitter is included that is adapted to transmit an actuation signal upon detection of excess noise or motion from the sleeper. The receiver, upon receiving the actuation signal, can actuate the stimulator for a randomized period of time via one or more randomized output pulses generated by a controller in communication with the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventor: Relaxasleep, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130253388
    Abstract: A method of treatment by vibration stimulation is provided. The method includes providing an expandable stimulation member adapted to impart vibrations to body tissue of a human subject; introducing the stimulation member into a body cavity of the human subject; expanding the stimulation member to a volume such that the stimulation member abuts against body tissue within the body cavity; bringing the stimulation member to vibrate such that vibrations are imparted to the body tissue in the body cavity of the human subject according to a vibration pattern, wherein the vibration pattern includes a main periodic element of a first frequency and an excitation stimulus of a second frequency higher than the first frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Applicant: CHORDATE MEDICAL AG
    Inventors: Jan-Erik JUTO, Fredrik JUTO, William HOLM
  • Publication number: 20130253389
    Abstract: A method for treatment by vibration stimulation of body tissue in a body cavity of a human subject includes providing a stimulation member comprising a dielectric polymer; introducing the stimulation member into a body cavity; expanding the stimulation member to a state such that it abuts the body tissue within the body cavity, and applying a time varying potential to said dielectric polymer to impart vibrations to body tissue in the body cavity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 26, 2013
    Inventors: Jan-Erik JUTO, Fredrik JUTO, William HOLM
  • Patent number: 8540660
    Abstract: An oral appliance for administering a stimulus, such as a substance, to the mouth of a user includes a flexible tube having an inlet portion, a first curved portion forming an ear loop connected to the inlet portion, a second curved portion forming a lip bend connected to the first curved portion, and an outlet portion extending from the second curved portion. Alternatively, a mouthpiece for delivering a substance to the mouth of a user includes a housing having an inlet portion, a riser portion extending upwardly from the inlet portion and a curved outlet portion. A flexible tube is coupled to the housing. A method of delivering a substance to a predetermined location in a user's mouth includes disposing a flexible tube between a row of teeth and an interior surface of a cheek. The flexible tube has an exit port positioned in a rear portion of the user's mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignees: University of Western Ontario, Trudell Medical International
    Inventors: Ruth E. Martin, Sarah Trotter, Michael Nuttall, George Baran, Mitchell A. Baran, Bryan Finlay, Julie Theurer
  • Publication number: 20130245513
    Abstract: According to one embodiment, an apparatus for loading vibration is provided. The apparatus for loading vibration has a contacting unit, a first vibration unit, a storage unit and a control unit. The contacting unit is capable of coming into contact with a biological body which pulsates or beats in a contact state of a first contact condition. The first vibration unit provides a self-excited vibration to the biological body through the contacting unit. The storage unit stores a second contact condition which synchronizes the self-excited vibration with the pulses or the beats. The control unit controls the contact state of the contacting unit so as to make the first contact condition become closer to the second contact condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Kenji Hirohata, Junichiro Ooga, Takuya Hongo, Yousuke Hisakuni
  • Patent number: 8388561
    Abstract: A device and methods for treating a subject with dysphagia or other neurological disease, neurological disorder, neurological injury, neurological impairment or neurodegenerative disease that affects voluntary motor control of the hyoid, pharynx, larynx, or oropharyngeal area is disclosed. A device of the invention generally comprises a vibrotactile stimulator for applying at least one stimulus to the outside surface of a subject's neck; a connector for attaching the vibrotactile stimulator to an outside surface of the subject's neck, and a switch control communicatively connected to the vibrotactile stimulator to selectively engage a manual stimulation module and/or automatic stimulation module. Stimulation of an outside surface of the throat area of a subject by a device of the invention stimulates a swallowing reflex in the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America, as Represented by the Secretary, Department of Health and Human Services
    Inventors: Christy Ludlow, Newlin Morgan, George Dold, Soren Lowell, Katie Dietrich-Burns
  • Publication number: 20120302929
    Abstract: A pulse action facial and head massager band apparatus including a headband assembly for mounting to a user's head. The headband is equipped with small vibrators that consist of small shaft less motors which quietly pulsate direct vibrations into the selected temple and jaw portion of the user's head and face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2011
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Vitaly Tkachenko
  • Patent number: 8308665
    Abstract: A method and wearable system and for enhancing human balance and gait and preventing foot injury through neurological stimulation of the foot and the ankle. Subthreshold stimulation for neurosensory enhancement is provided via electrodes or vibrational actuators, or combination thereof, disposed in or on a wearable a platform, such as an insole, sock shoe, removable shoe insert, or applied without the support of a platform, to the skin surface of an individual. Suprathreshold stimulation for therapeutic purposes, such as improving blood flow, is also provided by the vibrational actuators. The actuators and electrodes are driven by bias signals generated by a bias signal generator that is coupled to a controller. The signal generator under the control of the controller is adapted to generate a non-deterministic random signal, a repetitive pattern or series of patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Trustees of Boston University
    Inventors: Jason D. Harry, James J. Collins, James B. Niemi, Atilla A. Priplata, Stephen J. Kleshinski
  • Publication number: 20120184885
    Abstract: The present technology is the use of the combination to treat a patient and the treatment of a patient. Sine waves are generated digitally by the combination. Data validation is used to ensure correct directional alignment prior to device activation. Patient safety and consistency in treatment protocols are considered in the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment design. A patient is treated with smooth sinusoidal waveform with a force of about 8 N to about 12.2 N with a Z-axis of acceleration (shear acceleration) of about 0.5 g to about 5g at about 5 Hertz (Hz) to about 200 Hertz. Treatment conditions can be varied depending upon the size of the patient, which includes human and veterinary patients. The method is non-invasive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Inventors: Aslam Khan, Geoffrey T. Desmoulin, Christopher J. Hunter
  • Publication number: 20120172772
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for the conditioning of muscular fibrils by means of the application to a muscle in isometric contraction, a succession of mechanical pulses, where the apparatus comprises means for the production of pressure pulses, means for the application of said pressure pulses on the epidermis adjacent the muscle and means for the transmission of said pulses from said means for the production of pressure pulses to said application means, wherein said application means and said means for the transmission of said pulses from said production means to said application means comprise when said application means are applied to the epidermis a closed circuit inside which a compressed fluid or a substantially uncompressible fluid is present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: Vissman S.r.I
    Inventors: Giuseppe Guantera, Claudio Polidori
  • Publication number: 20120136288
    Abstract: A heated massage glove comprising a hand covering to envelope a hand of a user, a set of finger segments to accept the fingers of the user, a set of finger massagers attached within the set of finger segments, where the set of finger massagers vibrate and pulse against the set of fingers, a set of hand massagers attached to a backside of the hand covering, wherein the set of hand massagers vibrate and pulse against a backside of the hand, a heating apparatus housed within the hand covering, where the heating apparatus includes a plurality of wires to heat the hand covering, and a control mechanism attached to the backside of the hand covering wherein the control mechanism controls how intense the set of finger massagers and the set of hand massagers vibrates and pulses and how intense the heating apparatus heats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Publication date: May 31, 2012
    Inventor: Deborah Napier
  • Patent number: 8167827
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Dan E Du Bose
  • Patent number: 8152747
    Abstract: The current invention is a spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment device and controller, which delivers multiple impulses of variable frequency and variable force in a linear direction, as well as rotational forces, for patient treatment. Known chiropractic impulse devices are all hand held devices. In contrast, the spinal and upper cervical impulse treatment device is mounted on a fixed stand and armature, allowing reliable positioning and directional alignment in three dimensions. Fixed mounting also facilitates ease of use. A safety coupling is incorporated to avoid patient injury due to excessive force on the treatment site in the fixed mounting scenario Smooth sinusoidal waveforms are a preferred waveform for impulse delivery and sine waves are generated digitally in the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Inventors: Aslam Khan, Peter Wishart
  • Patent number: 8142373
    Abstract: A system and method that utilizes a massaging apparatus specifically for a person's temples with the expressed purpose of providing relaxation and headache relief, is herein disclosed. The apparatus is configured as a headband with battery-powered massagers at the temples. The apparatus is supported both with minimal elasticity from the headband and with ear supports. Power is supplied to the massagers from a rechargeable battery pack that can be worn about the arm or alternately the waist and is electrically tethered to the headband. Each small disc-shaped temple massager is separately powered by a small motor that produces the massaging effect which is intended to reproduce the sensation of rubbing/massaging the temples.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Inventor: Carol W. Riles
  • Patent number: 8092405
    Abstract: A self-contained oral vibrator featuring an elastomeric band that is generally used as a sexual novelty apparatus. The apparatus is made of two basic parts. The first part, the integrated vibrator, is comprised of a motor used to cause vibration, a small battery power source and an external barrel 4. The second primary element of the apparatus is the elastomeric band itself. The band is designed to both fasten to the tongue during use and also house the vibration apparatus. The elastomeric band is essentially made of two parts; the first part, the bottom part, is a flat loop that wraps around the tongue during use while the second part, the top part, is designed as a barrel 4 to hold in place the vibration barrel in place. The vibration barrel and band together form an integrated tongue vibrator absent the necessity for multiple parts to achieve the same end result.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey Dean Klearman
  • Patent number: 8079968
    Abstract: A vibrator for use in enhancement of pre-hospital coronary thrombolysis comprising a vibration source operable to generate vibration at a frequency in the range of 1-1000 Hz with at least a pair of oscillatory contacts spaced to enable simultaneous seating to the anatomic left and right of the sternum (such as to match the geometry of the right and left coronary arteries) of a patient in need of coronary thrombolysis. The preferred vibrator is operable to emit vibration in the low frequency sonic range (at least 20 Hz) with an amplitude of about 1 mm-15 mm (and more preferably greater than 2 mm), such as to provide an effective transthoracic tool for acute coronary thrombolysis applications. In a variation, greater than a pair of contacts are utilized to provide oscillatory contact at differing intercostal space levels (in order to maximize vibratory penetration to the heart which is variably situated depending on the patient's anatomy).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: AHOF Biophysical Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Kenneth Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 7981063
    Abstract: Method, procedure, and device for applying tactile sensation and vibration to the human body. In this invention one or more vibrating elements emit sine waves between 20 and 800 Hz. These waves are varied in frequency, amplitude and rhythm to create in the subject the sensation of massage moving through different parts of the body even though the signal emitter may be a point source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Charles F. Butler
  • Patent number: 7981064
    Abstract: Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures comprise beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: So Sound Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Barry Oser, Suzannah Long
  • Patent number: 7909785
    Abstract: A processor (10) controls the operation of the device and preferably provides for a plurality of operational algorithms or modes. A program switch (18) allows the user to select which algorithm will be used. The processor drives an inverter (12), which drives a power amplifier or bridge (13). The output of the bridge 13 is connected to one or more transducers 16. When the user presses the switch (19A), the processor begins the algorithm. One or more of the transducers are placed on the patient's body in the area to be treated. The algorithms provide for lower-frequency and higher-frequency sweeps, which the transducers convert to microvibrations which, in turn, massage not only the muscles and the larger blood vessels, but also the smaller blood vessels and capillaries, and provide for improved blood circulation in the affected area, thereby relieving pain and enhancing recovery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Inventors: Yury M. Podrazhansky, Mikhail N. Lyubich
  • Patent number: 7892191
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for preventing biofilm formation associated with an indwelling medical device. The method involves applying nanovibrational acoustic waves to surfaces of a medical device utilizing a piezo resonator to generate the waves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventors: Jona Zumeris, Zadick Hazan, Yanina Zumeris
  • Publication number: 20100318007
    Abstract: A device for stimulating a sleeper is disclosed. The device comprises a tactile electromechanical stimulator positioned against the sleeper's back proximate the sleeper's lower spine. The stimulator is actuated by a control circuit and powered by a power source. In one embodiment, the control circuit can be programmed to occasionally actuate the stimulator to promote more restful sleep. In one embodiment, the control circuit includes a receiver, and a transmitter is included that is adapted to transmit an actuation signal upon detection of excess noise or motion from the sleeper. The receiver, upon receiving the actuation signal, can actuate the stimulator for a randomized period of time via one or more randomized output pulses generated by a controller in communication with the receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2009
    Publication date: December 16, 2010
    Inventor: DONALD J. O'BRIEN
  • Patent number: 7582066
    Abstract: By the combined use of ultrasonic vibration generated by a pair of ultrasonic vibrators that are alternately driven asynchronously with the heartbeat, and stereo music vibration waves generated by a pair of music vibrators, the brain is gently and effectively provided with massage without subjecting the head to excessive massage. Blood flow can be stimulated deep within the brain. As the rise and fall of the vibration energy generated by the ultrasonic vibrators are mitigated by the modulators, impact applied by the vibration to the head of the wearer is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventor: Yoshio Shimotori