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.
Abstract: A movement device for flexing and/or straightening a joint of a user includes a first anchor element adapted to be positioned adjacent a jointed appendage of a user at a first position. A second anchor element is adapted to be positioned about the jointed appendage at a second position, wherein the jointed appendage is located between the first anchor element and the second anchor element. A spring member is positioned between the first and second anchor elements wherein the spring member is fixedly secured to the second anchor element and moveable through the first anchor element to thereby allow the spring member to bend about a joint of the appendage when said appendage is flexed. The spring member is configured to exert bending forces in opposition to working muscles of the user to straighten or flex the joint of the appendage.
Abstract: A body support for spanning a hinge joint of the body comprises an elastically stretchable framework. The framework includes an integrally molded network of interconnected elastomeric segments. A first subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments extends along a perimeter of the framework, and a second subset of the interconnected, elastomeric segments located within the perimeter of the framework bounds and defines a plurality of permanent openings in the framework. One of the plurality of permanent openings comprises an alignment opening. None of the interconnected, elastomeric segments of the first subset are part of the second subset.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
April 23, 2012
Date of Patent:
March 18, 2014
Assignee:
Nordt Development Co., LLC
Inventors:
William E. Nordt, III, Ian D. Kovacevich, Kevin J. Dahlquist, Thomas J. Philpott, Jason Huneycutt
Abstract: A joint having two-axis construction having a distal member and a main member joined in co-linear pivotal relation that provides enhanced joint strength and compactness. Hydraulics further provide variable extension assist and an infinite number of flexion stops for controlled flexion flow, and two gears provide a functional gear ratio that also promotes compact construction by reducing the amount of hydraulic piston travel required for maximum joint extension. A drive gear associated with the main member is positioned between the distal end of the piston and a transfer gear partially press-fit into a cut-out in the distal member, to provide needed radial hydraulic force transfer. Although it is contemplated for joint use to be primarily in orthotic devices that assist the movement of an inadequately functioning body limb, any application for which the mechanical joint's compact configuration would provide assistance or technical advantage is considered to be within its scope.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 9, 2009
Date of Patent:
March 4, 2014
Inventors:
Timothy Thomas Pansiera, David L. Stubbers
Abstract: The double pull body brace comprises a one-piece panel which engages around the torso and overlaps at the front. At the overlap, it is attached to itself by means of a hook-and-loop fastener so that a wide range of adjustment is possible. In the back, spaced cord guides are mounted on said panel. Each cord guide carries a plurality of cord guide lobes. An upper cord is engaged around the upper cord guide lobes, and a lower cord is engaged around the lower cord guide lobes. These cords are separately attached to pull tabs. When donned, the user pulls on the pull tabs to separately adjust upper and lower closure tension of the body brace. When in correct adjustment, the pull tabs are attached in place by hook-and-loop fasteners.
Abstract: A padding assembly has two bridging segments and a base pad. The base pad is attachable to an orthopedic brace while the first bridging segment is releasably attached to a mounting substrate on the base pad and the other bridging segment is releasably attached to the same mounting substrate or to another mounting substrate on the brace. The attached bridging segments are spaced apart from one another and the resulting space between them, termed a wound bridge area, has a thickness substantially less than that of the padding assembly at the first bridging segment or that of the other bridging segment.
Abstract: A thoracic lumbar sacral orthosis includes an upper body support for use with a torso orthosis. The upper body support has an anterior assembly including an anterior plate secured to the torso orthosis, a sternal assembly connected to the anterior plate, and a pectoral assembly connected to the sternal assembly. A posterior assembly is connected to the torso orthosis and is connected to the pectoral assembly by at least one strap. The sternal assembly has at least one pivot point arranged to pivot the sternal assembly relative to the anterior plate.
Abstract: System for the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers are described in which a portable support assembly may be worn by a bed-stricken individual around particular regions of the body where pressure ulcers tend to form. The portable support assembly may generally include one or more individual spring assemblies which are enclosed entirely within an inner fluid and/or outer fluid pad which extends over the entire assembly. Each of the spring assemblies may be secured to an outer shell which is relatively stiffer than the fluid layers.
Abstract: An orthopedic boot has two leg supports connected adjustably to a foot support via two joint assemblies. Each joint assembly has a securing panel, a connecting panel, a guide panel, two limiting members and two holding members. The securing panel is mounted securely on the foot support and has two engaging grooves each having engaging cavities. The connecting panel is mounted securely to one leg support and is pivotally connected to the securing panel. The limiting members has a resilient segment, an engaging pin and a locking tab. The engaging pin is mounted slidably in one of the engaging grooves, engages one of the engaging cavities and selectively abuts the connecting panel. The locking tab is spaced from a periphery of the guide panel to define a locking gap. The holding members are held respectively in the locking gaps and abut respectively against the locking tabs.
Abstract: Aspects of the subject technology relate to a robotic finger digit including a distal finger joint coupled between a distal finger part and a middle finger part, a middle finger joint coupled between the middle finger part and a proximal finger part and an extend tendon coupled at a first end to the distal finger joint, and coupled at a second end to an actuation device. In certain aspects, the robotic finger can further include a flex tendon coupled at a first end to the distal finger joint, and coupled at a second end to the actuation device, wherein the actuation device is configured to move the extend tendon and the flex tendon substantially the same distance in order to flex and/or extend the robotic finger digit.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 2, 2013
Date of Patent:
February 25, 2014
Assignee:
The Shadow Robot Company Limited
Inventors:
Armando De La Rosa Tames, Graeme Richard Lawrence Walker, Jake Benjamin Goldsmith, John Hugo Elias, Matthew Paul Godden, Richard Martin Greenhill
Abstract: A sacroiliac belt with a non-elastic inner belt to wrap around the user's hips and an elastic outer belt to wrap from the back to opposite sides of the inner belt. Non-cinchable hook and loop fastener construction is used to secure the inner and outer belts in position. The inner belt includes an inside elastomeric foam layer with open-cell frictional gripping surface, a non-elastic outside layer of loop material, and a hook tab for engaging the loop material to close the belt. The inner belt may be established with a non-elastic composite foam-fabric structure comprising a bi-laminate of the foam and elastic fabric, and a strip of loop material secured lengthwise onto the fabric side of the bi-laminate. The outer belt includes an elastic strip and hook tabs for connecting to the strip of loop material. The non-elastic composite foam-fabric may be used in other orthopedic braces and supports.
Abstract: A waist supporting back brace frame for a detachment type waist protecting belt to hold the vertebra region of a vertebra related patient is provided. The frame is comprised of two back rest frames, one power module, one puller, one string that is engaged and connects two parts (left and right) of the power module, and two set of broad bands. Each part of the power module is equipped with four pairs of string conveying mini rollers. Pluralities of gear teeth are developed on the surface of the string conveying mini rollers along the vertical axis thereof. Upper and lower corner of the teeth is rounded to minimize friction between the roller and the power module when a wearer put on the frame and fasten.
Abstract: A multi-phase orthopedic system including a moisture-impervious sleeve, a moldable splint including a covered resin-impregnated substrate, an elongate removable wrap for retaining the splint on the limb, and a removable cast for application to the limb during a subsequent treatment phase including a cast body having an interior side and exterior side, and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position, and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb, the flap adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase. A method of immobilizing a limb in multiple treatment phases utilizing the multi-phase orthopedic system.
Abstract: A wrist support worn by a user can diminish or eliminate pain, stress, or discomfort on the wrist and hand regions while lifting various objects of size and weight in a repetitive or non-repetitive manner. The specification describes embodiments of wrist support devices, including a wrist support device that can inhibit wrist extension and flexion, and ulnar and radial deviation, with a support that transfers forces around the wrist muscles and ligaments onto the larger and stronger muscles of the upper and lower arm.
Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for providing supplemental support to the arm and/or elbow region of an individual. In one exemplary implementation, a brace for a user's arm is provided comprising a rigid element including arm-engaging portions and a strap of flexible material configured to encircle the arm. Moreover, the exemplary rigid element and strap may be further characterized in that the strap comprises an elastic nature or portion that provides a force (such as a compressive or constraining force) to the user's arm, the arm-engaging portions include muscle/tendon-engaging regions that each engage the user's arm along a leading face/edge, with various leading faces/edges corresponding to the muscle/tendon-engaging regions being positioned in relationship with each other to apply a desired pressure or force to the user's arm.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
May 30, 2011
Date of Patent:
January 21, 2014
Assignee:
Squarehit Sports, Inc.
Inventors:
James Bowmar Rodgers, Jr., Maurice Arthur LeBlanc, Jr., Raymond Neil Bilsey
Abstract: A locking system to be fitted on a joint device (10) is equipped with means of control of the relative range of motion (R.O.M.) between two rods or uprights (11, 12) connected to it; said joint consists of a pair of plates (13, 14) connected to each other by means of rivets (15) and to the rods or uprights (11, 12) protruding from the joint. This locking system comprises at least one locking device consisting of a stop member (16) which is inserted between a rod (11) and the plate (13) connected to a fixed central element of the joint. Said stop member is activated to move from a retracted position to an inserted position in the joint, at right angles in respect of the plane of the plate (13), by means of a cursor element (18) sliding on a slide (19) positioned in the upper part of a bridge element (20), said cursor element comprising a sloping surface (17) which causes the movement of the stop member (16) from a retracted to an inserted position.
Abstract: A modular articulating splint includes flat slats; a covering that surrounds the slats and holds them in a fixed position spaced apart from each other so that adjacent slats can fold over atop one another to form a stacked deck of slats for storage; and a fabric hook-and-loop fastener for each slat so that the hook portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on a first side and the loop portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on the opposite side.
Abstract: A modular articulating splint includes flat slats; a covering that surrounds the slats and holds them in a fixed position spaced apart from each other so that adjacent slats can fold over atop one another to form a stacked deck of slats for storage; and a fabric hook-and-loop fastener for each slat so that the hook portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on a first side and the loop portion is affixed to the covering within the width of each slat on the opposite side.
Abstract: A pad for an associated orthopedic brace has a laminate structure including a first layer and a second layer. The first layer is formed from a pliant material having a plurality of interstitial perforations formed therein. The second layer abuts the first layer and is formed from an elastic pliant material which projects outward through the perforations of the first layer to form nubs that are raised relative to the first layer. The nubs are characterized as having a relatively high friction coefficient when coupled with the skin of the associated orthopedic brace wearer. As such, the nubs, in combination with the first layer, define an uneven skin contact surface which renders the pad and associated brace resistant to migration when mounted on the body of a wearer.
Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of therapeutic and/or injury support devices. In one form, the invention relates to a device for the relative protection and treatment of injured muscles, tendons and other soft tissue, as well as a method of utilizing this device. In one particular form, the present invention relates to providing an external support structure to assist in the load carrying function of injured soft tissue.
Abstract: The invention relates to an orthopedic technical device for the lower extremities, with at least one receptacle (12, 16) for an extremity (14, 18), a sensor (30) and an electric evaluating unit (34), which is connected with the sensor (30) for processing data of a sensor (30). According to the invention, it is proposed that the electric evaluating unit (34) be set up in order to carry out a method with the following steps: (i) switching into a learning mode, (ii) determining at least one characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold), (iii) storing the characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold), (iv) switching into an operating method and (v), in the operating mode, influencing, optimizing or selecting a control algorithm of the orthopedic device by means of the characteristic value of the system (R, S, N, aw,threshold).
Abstract: A moisture-resistant multi-phase orthopedic system and method including a single layer, three-dimensional knitted fabric having an open structure for providing enhanced moisture transfer from the skin outwardly into the atmosphere and a flap carried by the body and movable between an open position and a closed position overlying a part of the cast body to be applied to a treatment area of the limb. The flap is adapted to cover and retain between the cast body and the flap the splint worn by the patient during the initial treatment phase in the same position as the location of the splint during the initial treatment phase.
Abstract: A strap tab assembly has a strap tab defining a substantially square-shaped locking hole located generally at a first end, and an elongated slot on a second end. The strap tab assembly includes a top cap defining a top cover, a square-shaped locking projection corresponding in shape to the locking hole, and a female portion forming a center channel and extending beyond and concentric with the locking projection. A bottom cap has a male portion adapted for being received in the center channel of the female portion to engage the top cap. The locking projection extends beyond the periphery of the female portion, and is configured and dimensioned to correspond to and engage an inner periphery of the locking hole.
Abstract: The invention provides, in various embodiments, braces that are capable of stabilizing an injured limb, particularly an injured wrist. An exemplary brace fits across the injury in contact with the user's limb and has an adjustable casing and compressible material.
Abstract: A sacroiliac belt with a non-elastic inner belt to wrap around the user's hips and an elastic outer belt to wrap from the back to opposite sides of the inner belt. Non-cinchable hook and loop fastener construction is used to secure the inner and outer belts in position. The inner belt includes an inside elastomeric foam layer with open-cell frictional gripping surface, a non-elastic outside layer of loop material, and a hook tab for engaging the loop material to close the belt. The inner belt may be established with a non-elastic composite foam-fabric structure comprising a bi-laminate of the foam and elastic fabric, and a strip of loop material secured lengthwise onto the fabric side of the bi-laminate. The outer belt includes an elastic strip and hook tabs for connecting to the strip of loop material. The non-elastic composite foam-fabric may be used in other orthopedic braces and supports.
Abstract: An orthopedic device has a rigid or semi-rigid frame element defining opposed first and second sides, and is adapted to extend about at least a portion of a limb. The device includes straps formed from a variety of segments having stretchable and substantially inelastic segments. The straps adjustably secure to the frame element, and stretch relative thereto. The device also includes a central strap pad arranged to connect two straps together such that a first strap of the two straps is movable relative to a second strap, and the first and second straps are maintained diagonal relative to one another.
Abstract: A method and system are provided for that allow for varying stiffness of a system by applying a low magnetic field to magnetorheological (MR) fluid in the system. The method and system include exposed patterns on facing surfaces of sliding structures. The facing patterns contain MR fluid. When a low to moderate magnetic field is applied to the MR fluid, the patterns are magnetically attracted to MR domains confined to the opposing surface, thus requiring additional force to slide the structures past each other.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
November 12, 2010
Date of Patent:
November 12, 2013
Assignee:
President and Fellows of Harvard College
Abstract: A cast for aligning and supporting first and second bone locations adjoining a bone fracture zone including a body employed in at least one of interior and exterior locations of the bone surrounding the fracture zone. The body provides for at least one of aligning the bone locations on either side of the fracture zone and influencing the bone locations in a compressive fashion against the fracture zone during healing of the bone. The body may further include an internally inserted membrane, such as further exhibiting inflatable bladder incorporating a plurality of elongate stiffening members.
Abstract: A splint is provided having a framesheet with a pocket to receive a rigid tube. The framesheet is secured about the injured limb by a plurality of dynamic closure straps. An optional traction bar having a cantilever arm and adjustable link is inserted on the end of the collapsible rigid tube, and connected to a harness that applies traction to the limb. The countertraction force is dissipated throughout the entire framesheet, eliminating externally applied pressure points against contiguous anatomy.
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.
Abstract: A moldable decorative splint material includes a heat-moldable sheet of splint material adapted to become sufficiently pliable when heated to a first temperature to allow the sheet to be molded into a splint configuration that conforms to an anatomical body part and to become hard when cooled to a second temperature to retain the splint configuration. The splint material includes a plurality of decorative elements integrated with the sheet of splint material. The decorative elements are to be retained by the sheet of splint material when the sheet is heated to the first temperature, molded into a splint configuration, and cooled to the second temperature.
Abstract: The invention relates to an adjusting device having a first element (10) and a second element (20) movably mounted with respect thereto, wherein she first element (10) has at least one latching device (15), and wherein at least one locking element (40) coupled to an actuating element (30) is movably disposed on the second element (20) and can be moved out of a release position out of engagement with the latching device (15) into a locking position in engagement with the latching device (15). The aim of the present invention is to provide an adjusting device of simple construction which functions reliably and enables rapid adjustment of the stop position. Said aim is achieved in that the actuating element (30) has at least one actuating magnet (31), which is associated with a locking magnet (41) coupled to the locking element (40) and the locking element (40) moves into the release position and/or locking position and/or out of the release position and/or locking position.
Abstract: A protective brace has a base strap, an annular pressure strap and a fastening member. The base strap includes a first end and a second end. The pressure strap is secured to the first end of the base strap and is movable through the second end of the base strap. The fastening member is movably mounted on the pressure strap and includes a fastening surface. The fastening surface faces the first end of the base strap and is fastened detachably to the pressure strap or the base strap. For a user to wear the protective brace, the base strap is first wrapped around a body part and the fastening member is then operated to make the pressure strap wrapped around the base strap and is fastened to the pressure strap or the base strap. Therefore, the protective brace can be easily worn on the user's body.
Abstract: An orthotic foot brace for a person wearing a footwear includes: a lower leg holder; a lower leg strut extending downwardly towards the footwear; a foot strut having a rear section secured to the vertical strut, at least one of a median section and a lateral section located on a respective side of the footwear and extending outwardly thereof, and a front section securable to an instep section of the footwear; and a brace retaining member secured to the foot strut juxtaposed to the footwear, and extending from the median side of the footwear to the lateral side of the footwear, outwardly thereof, and restraining a rearwardly pivotal movement of the brace.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 9, 2010
Date of Patent:
September 10, 2013
Assignee:
Ortheses Turbomed Inc./Turbomed Orthotics Inc.
Abstract: The inflatable splint is formed of an inner shell of thin, semi-rigid material and at least one pneumatically inflated ply surrounding the inner shell. A second pneumatically inflated ply may be placed around the first pneumatically inflated layer. The inner shell may be lined with a soft fabric material, or a soft fabric sock or sleeve may be applied over the injured limb for comfort. The innermost semi-rigid ply of the splint may be formed in two halves that attach removably to one another to allow the assembly to be removed from the wearer from time to time for hygiene, therapy, and/or other reasons as required. The pneumatically inflatable outer plies are each formed as a single wrap. An inflation device may be provided with the assembly, for the convenience of the wearer to adjust the inflation pressure of the outer pneumatic ply or plies.
Abstract: A hemostatic device includes a flexible band adapted to be wrapped around a patient's limb at a site on the limb where bleeding is to be stopped, a portion for securing the band in a wrapped state to the limb, a curved plate which is made of a material more rigid than the band and at least a portion of which is curved toward the inner peripheral side thereof, a main balloon which is provided on the inner peripheral side of the curved plate and which inflates when a fluid is introduced therein, and a pressing member which is provided between the curved plate and the main balloon so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the balloon and which is adapted for pressing against the balloon. The device provides an excellent hemostatic effect and prevents numbness and poor circulation in areas peripheral to the site of attachment.
Abstract: An orthopedic brace having length adjustable supports is provided. The brace comprises upper and lower supports rotatably connected by a hinge. Each of the supports comprises an elongate portion having a channel along part of its length, and a sliding upright nesting within the channel. The upright is longitudinally translatable within the channel so that the support length is adjustable. Flanges are provided along edges of the channel to prevent lateral separation of the upright from the channel. A spring-biased button protrudes from a surface of the channel. The button cooperates with one of a plurality of holes in the upright, providing a positive lock to retain the upright in one of a number of predetermined positions. The upright is also completely removable from the channel. Removal of the upright shortens the brace. Straps cooperate with brackets on the supports and/or uprights to secure the brace to a patient's leg.
Abstract: A screw nail correcting apparatus used for treating ingrown nails seen in human feet and/or hands adapts to different nail widths and to the changes that may occur in time on the same nail and practically enables pulling of the nail with an amount of force complying with the requirement. The fact that the apparatus is not a single piece and that it can be mounted separately from both sides of the nail provides ease of use, and the screw mobile part in the middle thereof helps to adjust the tautness according to the requirement of the nail at the concerned moment.
Abstract: The proposed device includes two segments adapted to enclose a body part in a form-fitting manner. Each segment contains an electroactive-material-based actuator, which is adapted to receive an electrical control signal and in response thereto adjust the actuator's morphology, so as to cause the segment to apply a basic pressure profile to the body part. A pressure transition is adapted to redistribute the basic pressure profiles between the first and second segments. A control signal in respect of the first segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a first adjusted pressure profile to at least part of the second portion of the body part, and vice versa, a control signal in respect of the second segment causes the pressure transition system to apply a second adjusted pressure profile to at least a part of the first portion of the body part.
Abstract: Disclosed is an ankle-foot orthosis that includes a boot and a pre-tibial shell. The boot includes an inner shell and outer shell between which are included padding and/or structural supports according to the needs of the patient to be treated. The pre-tibial shell likewise includes an interior layer and an exterior layer. Both the boot and the pre-tibial shell are custom molded to a casting made from an injured foot while taped in a non-weight-bearing position and corrected to a position of neutral pathology. Also disclosed is a method for constructing the disclosed ankle-foot orthosis.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 9, 2010
Date of Patent:
August 20, 2013
Inventors:
William Scott Stano, Scott Davis Pixley
Abstract: An exemplary orthopedic adjustment device includes an orthopedic appliance, an adjustment unit module and a pressure control module. The appliance is configured for supporting a human spine. The adjustment unit module includes adjustment units. Each of the adjustment units includes a chamber, a pressure sensor and a pump. The pressure sensor and the pump are arranged in the chamber. Each of the pressure sensors is configured for detecting a pressure of each chamber corresponding thereto. Each of the pumps is configured for adjusting the pressure of each chamber corresponding thereto. The pressure control module is configured for receiving pressure signals from the pressure sensors of the chambers and providing pressure adjusting signals to the pumps to adjust the pressures of the chambers.
Abstract: A system and method for correcting misshaped ears using a base section defining an opening dimensioned to accommodate the passage of the ear through the opening and a top section releasably engageable with the base section defining a compartment therebetween. A first stint can be arranged on an anterior surface of the base section to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the ear essentially in an area of the antihelix and the superior limb of the triangular fossa. A second stint can be placed in an area of the scapha of the ear to maintain a desired contour of the scaphal area. A conchal stint can be placed in the concha to maintain a desired anatomic shape of the concha. The top section can be engaged to maintain a desired amount of stabilizing pressure on the ear, the first stint, the second stint, and conchal stint.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
February 10, 2012
Date of Patent:
July 23, 2013
Assignee:
Beacon Medical Limited
Inventors:
Henry Stephenson Byrd, C. Kenneth French, Garrett Barker
Abstract: A method of making an orthoses, comprising the steps of preparing a plaster mold, upon which the layers of the orthosis will be placed and formed; and placing layers of material on the mold, then forming and removing the layers. An orthosis, comprising a footplate that is capable of receiving a human foot thereabove, a heel portion at the rear side of the footplate; a strut extending upwardly from the heel portion; a calf portion extending forwardly from the strut, the calf portion including a tibial shell; the tibial shell extends around the front of the user's tibia; a rear portion extends around the back of the user's calf a rear portion disposed rearwardly with respect to the calf portion; and sides such that the calf portion is completely circumferential without seams. Two foam layers line the orthoses for comfort and ease of use.
Abstract: A robotic hand assembly comprising: a hand section comprising: at least one digit provided with at least one actuatable joint; and a control section comprising: at least one actuation device, the at least one actuation device comprising: a sensing module configured to sense a force applied to a tendon coupled at a first end to the at least one actuatable joint; and an actuation module configured to actuate the at least one actuatable joint.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
July 22, 2010
Date of Patent:
July 9, 2013
Assignee:
The Shadow Robot Company Limited
Inventors:
Armando de la Rosa Tames, Graeme Richard Lawrence Walker, Jake Benjamin Goldsmith, John Hugo Elias, Matthew Paul Godden, Richard Martin Greenhill
Abstract: The present invention relates to a plantar fasciitis rehabilitation controlling device. It mainly comprises a securing portion, a rotatable portion, a torque pivoting portion, a pulling portion, and a controller. The securing portion and the rotatable portion are provided for securing a user's shank and foot. This torque pivoting portion can create a torque causing the rotatable portion moving back. The pulling portion has a controller so as to pull the rotatable portion to rotate between a first angle and a second angle so that it can reduce possibility of the plantar fasciitis and ease pain of the plantar fasciitis. Hence, this invention can achieve an active rehabilitation exercise. The belt's pulling interval time can be adjusted. It has a safety switch to ensure its product safety. It is convenient that the user can use a wireless device to operate this system. In addition, the user can be informed about current condition via an audio device.
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.
Abstract: An elastic bandage having an elongated length in which the bandage has a portion that extends along its length that is of a shade of a color that is a function of the amount the material is stretched, representing either a loose fit, a firm fit, or a tight fit. A novel color chart may be used with the elastic bandage that includes different shades printed thereon to assist the user during wrapping of the bandage around a part of a body. The elastic bandage may further include a second portion that extends along its length that is of a color different from the first portion and wherein, upon completion of a proper wrapping of the bandage, most of the first color of the first portion is visible and nearly none of the second color of the second portion is visible.
Abstract: An orthopedic component for use in orthopedic device includes a rigid frame and a flexible subshell connected to and extending flexibly outwardly from the rigid frame. The subshell may have a shell body and a perimeter edge portion defining a lip extending outwardly from a surface of a shell body and defining a clearance between the shell body and the lip. The subshell may include a plurality of slots and ventilated padding is used in combination with the slots. A tightenable fastener may be adjustably secured to the rigid frame and extend through an opening on the subshell, wherein the first side portion of the subshell is adjustable in location relative to the rigid frame.
Abstract: An ankle brace is configured to provide lateral and/or medial support of an ankle joint between the leg and foot and broadly includes an upper brace anchor secured to the leg above malleoli of the ankle joint and a lower brace anchor secured below the foot. The anchors are interconnected by a stabilizing strap that is tensioned between the anchors and serves to restrict inversion and/or eversion of the foot. The anchors and strap are also dimensioned and configured to permit dorsiflexion and plantar flexion of the foot.
Abstract: A lockable hinge assembly configured for incorporation within a brace for stabilizing a joint includes a static support structure configured to remain in a fixed position, a dynamic support structure that is configured to be rotatable relative to the dynamic support structure, and a locking means for locking the dynamic support structure in a desired fixed position relative to the static support structure. The locking means is configured to enable the dynamic support structure to rotate relative to the static support structure and to automatically lock the dynamic support structure in a fixed position relative to the static support structure when the dynamic support structure rotates into the desired position.