Muscular Force (e.g., Strength Testing, Exercising Or Training Effort, Etc.) Patents (Class 73/379.01)
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Patent number: 12251827Abstract: The invention relates to the improvement of exoskeletons and masters thereof and to their use in teleoperative applications in virtual worlds or the real world. Non-actuated exoskeletons can be used to transfer loads from the user, for example, heavy luggage, tools or also the body weight of the user, to the ground and to relieve the joint and muscle system of the user. This can increase the endurance and also effective strength of the user. Motor-driven, actuated exoskeletons can be used in different fields. They can be worn as a freely moveable robotic suit which comprises a built-in energy supply and electronic control. They can also be used to improve the force and endurance of a user whilst the user moves in an unlimited environment. Another use of the fixed exoskeleton is in the field of interaction with virtual worlds or for controlling real robots. In this instance, an exoskeleton can be used to establish a teleoperative connection between the user and the master (virtual avatar or real robot).Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2022Date of Patent: March 18, 2025Inventor: Marcel Reese
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Patent number: 12185956Abstract: An arrangement for the preparation of the proximal surface of the tibia and/or the proximal surface of the distal end of the femur and the posterior femoral condyle for a tibia component and/or a femoral component of a prosthetic knee joint. The arrangement includes an electronic system arrangement that receives or measures data information to which the electronic system can utilise this information to communicate control of a blade and/or cutting implement to resect the proximal surface of the tibia and/or distal end of the femur and/or the posterior femoral condyle to required reference plane cuts that provide for balanced angular movement between the femoral component and the tibia component of the prosthetic knee joint throughout an arc of motion from extension, mid-flexion and flexion.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2019Date of Patent: January 7, 2025Inventor: Jonathan Peter Cabot
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Patent number: 11759125Abstract: A wearable posture monitoring device is provided. The device includes a first posture sensor to measure a first bend parameter associated with shoulders of a user and a second posture sensor to measure a second bend parameter associated with vertebral column of the user. The device includes a control unit operatively coupled to the first posture sensor and the second posture sensor and is configured to compare the first bend parameter with a first predefined reference value and the second bend parameter with a second predefined reference value to detect an improper bend in one or more of the shoulders and vertebral column of the user. The control unit is further configured to display a visual indication, on a display interface associated with the posture monitoring device, to indicate the detected improper bend of one or more of the shoulders and vertebral column of the user.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2019Date of Patent: September 19, 2023Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Beth Ladd, Donald L Bergh, Kimberly Moon, Loay Abusalah, Alexandria Rodriguez, Amaan Baiyat, Leah Smith, Michael Diaz, Randy De Leon, Alyssa Nicole Lee
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Patent number: 11638856Abstract: An exercise machine accessory is disclosed. In one embodiment, a resistance identifier is configured to identify resistance for an exercise machine associated with the exercise machine accessory, wherein the resistance identifier is coupled to the exercise machine. In one embodiment, a motion identifier is configured to identify exercise motion for a user of the exercise machine. In one embodiment, a communications module is configured to communicate with the user of the exercise machine, wherein the communications module is coupled to the resistance identifier and the motion identifier.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2022Date of Patent: May 2, 2023Assignee: Tonal Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gabriel Peal, Asim Kadav
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Patent number: 11617527Abstract: A system for monitoring muscle load, is configured to perform operations including: obtaining, from at least one sensor, measurement data on an exerciser; determining, based on the measurement data, a number of repetitions of a macroscopic movement performed during a physical exercise; determining, based on a conversion entry corresponding to a type of the physical exercise, muscle load coefficient of one or more muscles loaded in the physical exercise; utilizing the muscle load coefficient of the one or more muscles and the number of repetitions in determining muscle load data indicating muscle specific muscle load caused by the physical exercise performed by the exerciser; and outputting the muscle load data.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2020Date of Patent: April 4, 2023Assignee: Polar Electro OyInventors: Ville Majava, Pertti Puolakanaho, Jonna Puurunen
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Patent number: 11551574Abstract: Systems and methods for objectively assessing physical performance of a subject and generating programs specifically tailored to correct any physical deficiencies identified during that assessment. Generally, the assessments may produce results in binary format so that the assessments may be conducted objectively. Additionally, the recommended exercise programs may be generated based on the results of those assessments so that the recommended exercise programs target the identified physical deficiencies.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2019Date of Patent: January 10, 2023Assignee: Fusionetics, LLCInventors: Michael Alan Clark, Tyler Warren Alexander Wallace, David Montgomery Tate
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Patent number: 11241180Abstract: A testing and training apparatus, comprising: an upright frame; an instrumentation support that is supported by the upright frame so as to be adjustable in height; and instrumentation mountable on the instrumentation support. The instrumentation comprises a plurality of force sensors, and is rotatable relative to the upright frame, and the apparatus is controllable to output data signals indicative of force detected by the force sensors.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2020Date of Patent: February 8, 2022Assignee: Kangatech Pty Ltd.Inventors: Steven Wayne Saunders, David Charles Scerri
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Patent number: 11219396Abstract: A system for monitoring biometric signals of a user comprising: a garment configured to be worn by the user and comprising a mounting module having an array of connection regions; a set of biometric sensors coupled to the garment and configured to communicate with the array of connection regions to receive and transmit biometric signals indicative of muscle activity of the user; and a portable control module configured to couple to the garment in a first configuration and to decouple from the garment in a second configuration and comprising: a housing comprising an array of openings; a set of contacts, each including a first region that seals at least one of the array of openings and couples to at least one of the array of connection regions in the first configuration, and an electronics subsystem coupled to the housing and in communication with a second region of each contact.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2019Date of Patent: January 11, 2022Assignee: Mad Apparel, Inc.Inventors: James Berg, Hamid Butt, Dhananja Jayalath
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Patent number: 11123017Abstract: Attachments for isokinetic dynamometers and methods of use thereof are provided for use with subjects having limb impairments. An example dynamometer attachment for use with a subject having an impaired limb includes a frame that has fixed thereto a padded limb support, where the padded limb support is configured to secure an impaired limb of the subject. The padded limb support includes a securing mechanism for securing the impaired limb relative to the frame, and the frame is connected to the dynamometer lever arm via an intermediate connector assembly. The connector assembly permits translation of the padded limb support in at least two dimensions relative to the lever arm prior to securing the frame fixedly in place. The translation adjustability of the attachment facilitates the alignment of the dynamometer attachment to the limb or partial limb of the subject without requiring movement of the subject.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2018Date of Patent: September 21, 2021Assignee: UNIVERSITY OF NEW BRUNSWICKInventors: Usha Kuruganti, Victoria Chester
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Patent number: 10966895Abstract: A method of performing a fit test on an actuator unit coupled to a user. The method includes determining a first configuration of the actuator unit generated in response to actuating the actuator unit while the user is performing one or more movements for the fit test; determining a change from the first configuration of the actuator unit while the user is performing the one or more movements for the fit test; determining that the change from the first configuration corresponds to an improper fit of the actuator unit coupled the user; and generating an improper fit indication that indicates improper fit of at least leg actuator units coupled the user.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2020Date of Patent: April 6, 2021Assignee: ROAM ROBOTICS INC.Inventors: Callum Lamb, Kevin Kemper, Tim Swift
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Patent number: 10856795Abstract: A multifunction device for the measurement of the strain on the faces of load cells and displacement on the free ends of load cells allow measurement of the traction and/or compression force and energy expended by a muscle or muscle groups of the human body. Embodiments allow determination of the force profile, the instantaneous power and the average power. Also disclosed is a device for the measurement, recording and digital monitoring of the evolution of force and respective expended energy.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2016Date of Patent: December 8, 2020Assignee: Universidade do PortoInventors: Maria Teresa Braga Valente De Almeira Restivo, Manuel Rodrigues Quintas, Carlos Manuel De Sousa Moreira Da Silva, Tiago Faustino Andrade, Bruno Filipe Rodrigues Bento Dos Santos
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Patent number: 10814473Abstract: Implementations described and claimed herein involve a shoulder exoskeleton having a spherical parallel manipulator with a plurality of parallel linear actuators connected to a base coupled to a user's arm. A passive slip mechanism is operatively coupled to the spherical parallel manipulator as well as being coupled to the user's arm. The slip mechanism increases system mobility and prevents joint misalignment caused by the translational motion of the user's glenohumeral joint from introducing mechanical interference.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2017Date of Patent: October 27, 2020Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on Behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Panagiotis Artemiadis, Hyunglae Lee, Justin Hunt
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Patent number: 10744371Abstract: Training at the proper level of effort is important for athletes whose objective is to achieve the best results in the least time. In running, for example, pace is often monitored. However, pace alone does not reveal specific issues with regard to running form, efficiency, or technique, much less inform how training should be modified to improve performance or fitness. A sensing system and wearable sensor platform described herein provide real-time feedback to a user/wearer of his power expenditure during an activity. In one example, the system includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) for acquiring multi-axis motion data at a first sampling rate, and an orientation sensor to acquire orientation data at a second sampling rate that is varied based on the multi-axis motion data.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2017Date of Patent: August 18, 2020Assignee: Stryd, Inc.Inventors: Wyatt Mohrman, Kun Li, Gus Pernetz, James Williamson, Li Shang, Robert P. Dick
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Patent number: 10729369Abstract: A testing and training apparatus, comprising: an upright frame; an instrumentation support that is supported by the upright frame so as to be adjustable in height; and instrumentation mountable on the instrumentation support. The instrumentation comprises a plurality of force sensors, and is rotatable relative to the upright frame, and the apparatus is controllable to output data signals indicative of force detected by the force sensors.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2017Date of Patent: August 4, 2020Assignee: Kangatech Pty Ltd.Inventors: Steven Wayne Saunders, David Charles Scerri
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Patent number: 10596404Abstract: A device as disclosed herein utilizing a sliding and extendable rod, pipe, piston, or other sliding material designed to develop muscle memory, strength, technique, and flexibility for square swing impact and extension to enhance coordination and power, as well as to provide rehabilitative training based on repetition with immediate tactile, auditory, impact, and visual feedback, and that enables the user to train in partial swing and full swing modes and can be utilized indoors and outdoors.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2018Date of Patent: March 24, 2020Inventor: William Wallander
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Patent number: 10478669Abstract: An exercise motion tracking assembly, an exercise motion tracking system, and a method of electronically tracking exercise motion are disclosed. In one embodiment, the exercise motion tracking assembly can comprise a base unit comprising a plurality of trigger columns and a tracker comprising a plurality of column ports, a plurality of switching components, and a plurality of sensors. At least one of the plurality of sensors can be activated when the tracker is detachably coupled to the base unit, causing at least one of the plurality of trigger columns to extend through at least one of the plurality of column ports and actuate at least one of the plurality of switching components.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2017Date of Patent: November 19, 2019Assignee: Jenkins Asia Tech (Shanghai) LimitedInventor: Weng Kin Chen
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Patent number: 10342460Abstract: A postural feedback device for assisting user awareness of joint, muscle, or body part alignment is disclosed. Embodiments include at least one linear or rotary sensing unit comfortably and discretely adhered to the user's skin, a hardwire connection cable or wireless transmission sending unit, and an electronic console for interpretation of information from the sensing unit and biofeedback of said information via stimulus to the user. The postural feedback device may comprise multiple sensing units of various sizes simultaneously allowing for variations in application, user size, and size of body part being monitored. The electronic console may provide biofeedback to the user in the form of tactile, auditory, visual, or other stimuli, aiding the user in awareness of postural alignment or instruction of a desired anatomical movement. The sensing unit may be constructed allowing a low-profile, comfortable fit, allowing the device to be worn discreetly underneath clothing.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2016Date of Patent: July 9, 2019Assignee: REHAB TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventor: Brian Mitchell Rost
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Patent number: 10307633Abstract: An exercise device having a sled or wheelbarrow configuration comprises a frame that is pushed across a support surface by a user. The frame carries a wheel that movably supports the frame in the wheelbarrow configuration and at least one skid that movably supports the frame in the skid configuration. A pair of handles is selectively repositionable on the frame from a vertical orientation used in the sled configuration and a horizontal orientation used in the wheelbarrow configuration to quickly and easily convert the device between its different configurations. The frame has a carriage that supports a plurality of exercise weight members with the carriage being movable in a fore-and-aft direction on the frame for changing the effort required from the user to push the frame.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2017Date of Patent: June 4, 2019Assignee: PowerBlock Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Mattson K. Towley
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Patent number: 10292652Abstract: A system for monitoring biometric signals of a user comprising: a garment configured to be worn by the user and comprising a mounting module having an array of connection regions; a set of biometric sensors coupled to the garment and configured to communicate with the array of connection regions to receive and transmit biometric signals indicative of muscle activity of the user; and a portable control module configured to couple to the garment in a first configuration and to decouple from the garment in a second configuration and comprising: a housing comprising an array of openings; a set of contacts, each including a first region that hermetically seals at least one of the array of openings and couples to at least one of the array of connection regions in the first configuration, and an electronics subsystem coupled to the housing and in communication with a second region of each contact.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2014Date of Patent: May 21, 2019Assignee: MAD APPAREL, INC.Inventors: James Berg, Hamid Butt, Dhananja Jayalath, Christopher Wiebe
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Patent number: 9844715Abstract: An optimal bicycle frame size based on operational characteristics provided by a rider when riding a dynamic fit unit is determined. A best-fit bicycle frame size that is a closest match to the optimal frame size is determined. At least one of the optimal X,Y location of the bicycle's handlebar relative to the bottom bracket, and the optimal X,Y location of the bicycle's seat relative to the bottom bracket, is determined. A stem and spacer from a list of available stems and spacers that will best fit between the head tube of the best-fit frame and the optimal X,Y location of the handlebar is determined. A seat post from a list of available seat posts that will best fit between the seat tube of the best-fit frame and the optimal X,Y location of the seat is determined. A list of the best-fit frame, the best fit stem and spacer, and the best fit seat post, is produced.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2014Date of Patent: December 19, 2017Assignee: Cycling Sports Group, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Kautz, Scott Alan Rice, Jean-Paul Racine, Jason Andrew Clark, Antonio Giannascoli
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Patent number: 9757634Abstract: A training device and method for teaching a user the proper execution of various elements of an athletic swing. The swing training device incorporates a sliding member that simulates the impact of striking an object providing audible, visual and tactile feedback to the user pertaining to the proper execution of the swing, and displaces a force capture member a distance proportional to the force generated by the swing, and maintains this position until reset by the user. This allows the swing training device to quantify the force generated by the swing at the critical moment of impact. Further, the swing training device incorporates a movable stop that allows the device to be configured to provide for training methods that focus on the proper execution of specific swing elements, and it provides a means of quickly resetting the device for the execution of subsequent swing, thus maximizing training time.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2015Date of Patent: September 12, 2017Assignee: Rocky Mountain Athletics Company, LLCInventors: Joseph Reza Fierro, Matthew Michael Vellone
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Patent number: 9730617Abstract: The power used by a user in performing the vertical component of a movement is estimated. An accelerometer attached to a user measures the acceleration experienced by the user during movement. A processor configured to receive the measurements of the acceleration from the accelerometer, be attached to the user, estimate the vertical accelerations from the received acceleration measurements, and estimate the power used from the vertical accelerations.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2009Date of Patent: August 15, 2017Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Stephan Schlumbohm, Heribert Baldus, Wiebren Zijlstra
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Patent number: 9652037Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2015Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: AxonVR CorporationInventors: Jacob A. Rubin, Robert S. Crockett
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Patent number: 9636537Abstract: An exercise device having a sled or wheelbarrow configuration comprises a frame that is pushed across a support surface by a user. The frame carries a wheel that movably supports the frame in the wheelbarrow configuration and at least one skid that movably supports the frame in the skid configuration. A pair of handles is selectively repositionable on the frame from a vertical orientation used in the sled configuration and a horizontal orientation used in the wheelbarrow configuration to quickly and easily convert the device between its different configurations. The frame has a carriage that supports a plurality of exercise weight members with the carriage being movable in a fore-and-aft direction on the frame for changing the effort required from the user to push the frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2015Date of Patent: May 2, 2017Assignee: PowerBlock Holdings, Inc.Inventor: Mattson K. Towley
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Patent number: 9622701Abstract: An orthopedic implant having a three-axis accelerometer is disclosed. The three-axis accelerometer is used to detect micro-motion in the implant. The micro-motion can be due to loosening of the implant. The implant is configured to couple to the muscular-skeletal system. In one embodiment, the implant is configured to couple to bone. An impact force is imparted to the bone or implant. The impact force can be provided via a transducer coupled to the implant. In the example, the impact force is imparted along a single axis. The three-axis accelerometer measures the impact force along each axis. Resultant peaks of the quantitative measurement and the frequencies at which they occur are measured. The peaks and frequencies of the measurements correspond to micro-motion. Typically, the frequency of interest is less than 1 KHz to determine if micro-motion is occurring.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2016Date of Patent: April 18, 2017Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INCInventors: Marc Stein, Yoong-Joong Kim, Matthew J. Cohen, Chelsea A. Liddell
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Patent number: 9548126Abstract: A method of healing a plurality of non-volatile semiconductor memory devices on a multi-chip package is disclosed. The multi-chip package can be heated to a temperature range having a temperature range upper limit value and a temperature range lower limit value. The temperature of the multi-chip package can be kept essentially within the temperature range for a predetermined time period by monitoring a thermal sensing element with a sensing circuit outside of the multi-chip package. The thermal sensing element may be located near the components with the lowest failure temperature to ensure the multi-chip package is not damaged during the healing process.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2016Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventor: Darryl G. Walker
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Patent number: 9533182Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for athletic performance and technique monitoring are disclosed. In one example, a sensor output is received associated with a movement of a user torso during a running motion. The sensor output is analyzed to identify an undesirable torso motion.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2012Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Inventor: Thomas C. Chuang
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Patent number: 9492116Abstract: An orthopedic implant having an energy-harvesting device is disclosed. In one embodiment the orthopedic implant is a prosthetic component of a joint of the muscular-skeletal system. The orthopedic implant can include electronic circuitry, a power source, and one or more sensors for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system or a parameter of in proximity to the implant. The energy-harvesting device generates charge for powering the electronic circuitry using movement of the muscular-skeletal system. The energy-harvesting device comprises a piezo-electric element that converts changes in force into charge that is stored onto a storage device. The energy-harvesting device is coupled to the patella of a knee joint. Movement of the knee joint changes a force applied to the energy-harvesting device thereby generating charge that is coupled to circuitry in a prosthetic component of the knee joint.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2015Date of Patent: November 15, 2016Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INC.Inventor: Marc Stein
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Patent number: 9403577Abstract: A bottom bracket unit including a bottom bracket axle (1), at least one bearing (2, 3) that receives the bottom bracket axle (1) in a rotatable manner, and an optical detection unit (11), by which a rotational speed of the bottom bracket axle (1) can be detected. The optical detection unit (11) measures at least one signaling device (12) that is rotationally fixed to the bottom bracket axle (1). The aim of the invention is to provide a bottom bracket unit that can also detect the rotational direction of the bottom bracket axle in addition to the rotational speed of the axle. This is achieved in that the optical detection unit (11) has two optical sensors (17), with one of these sensors (17) providing a signal that is phase-shifted with respect to the other sensor (24) having a fixed phase difference, in particular with a phase difference of 90°.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2012Date of Patent: August 2, 2016Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KGInventors: Markus Neubauer, Stefan Gluck, Frank Benkert
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Patent number: 9358136Abstract: A measurement system for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a capacitor, a signal generator, a digital counter, counter register, a digital clock, a digital timer, and a data register. The sensor of the measurement system is the capacitor. The measurement system generates a repeating signal having a measurement cycle that corresponds to the capacitance of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises more than one capacitor mechanically in series. Electrically, the capacitor comprises more than one capacitor in parallel. In one embodiment, the capacitor includes a dielectric layer comprising polyimide. A force, pressure, or load is applied to the capacitor that elastically compresses the device. The capacitor is shielded from parasitic coupling and parasitic capacitance.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2014Date of Patent: June 7, 2016Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INC.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase
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Patent number: 9345492Abstract: A measurement system for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a capacitor, a signal generator, a digital counter, counter register, a digital clock, a digital timer, and a data register. The sensor of the measurement system is the capacitor. The measurement system generates a repeating signal having a measurement cycle that corresponds to the capacitance of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises more than one capacitor mechanically in series. Electrically, the capacitor comprises more than one capacitor in parallel. In one embodiment, the capacitor includes a dielectric layer comprising polyimide. A force, pressure, or load is applied to the capacitor that elastically compresses the device. The capacitor is shielded from parasitic coupling and parasitic capacitance.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2014Date of Patent: May 24, 2016Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INC.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase
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Patent number: 9326703Abstract: A manipulation device is programmable with different parameters associated with different manipulation exercises for different types of simulated patients. A measuring system determines the success or failure for any of the programmable manipulation exercises and tracks specific results that precisely track how close a student comes to specific target force values. This allows a student to more accurately track performance improvements and more effectively focus practice sessions on problem manipulation techniques. The measurement system not only measures the time and force values associated with the manipulation exercises but also measures angular displacement of the manipulation apparatus during the manipulation exercise. This allows the student to not only determine if a proper amount of force was applied during the manipulation exercise but also to determine if the force was maintained in the same direction and angle.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2011Date of Patent: May 3, 2016Assignee: ORTHO-NEURO TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: Kevin P. Leathers, Chris Doughty, Phillip Horvath
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Patent number: 9311789Abstract: A sensorimotor rehabilitation system can analyze body movement kinematics of a person, and in particular analyze the use of limbs (e.g., upper limbs) to provide feedback for sensorimotor rehabilitation. Parameters of body movement (e.g., quantity and type of body movement) can be assessed based on data recorded from an inertial sensor affixed or connected to, for example, an upper limb of a person or outer clothing such as a sleeve. Automated feedback can be provided to the user to improve sensorimotor rehabilitation.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2014Date of Patent: April 12, 2016Assignee: BIOSENSICS LLCInventor: Joseph T. Gwin
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Patent number: 9295422Abstract: A multifunction fitness testing device is disclosed. The multifunction fitness testing device includes a main body, a muscular endurance test part, a flexibility test part, a grip test part, and a host computer. The muscular endurance test part connects to the main body. The muscular endurance test part includes a foot fixing part and a folding plate. The foot fixing part connects to the folding plate. The flexibility test part is located near the foot fixing part. The host computer connects to the main body and electrically connects to the folding plate, the flexibility test part, and the grip test part.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2014Date of Patent: March 29, 2016Inventor: Hsu-Chih Tai
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Patent number: 9226694Abstract: A measurement system for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a capacitor, a signal generator, a digital counter, counter register, a digital clock, a digital timer, and a data register. The sensor of the measurement system is the capacitor. The measurement system generates a repeating signal having a measurement cycle that corresponds to the capacitance of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises more than one capacitor mechanically in series. Electrically, the capacitor comprises more than one capacitor in parallel. In one embodiment, the capacitor includes a dielectric layer comprising polyimide. A force, pressure, or load is applied to the capacitor that elastically compresses the device.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2014Date of Patent: January 5, 2016Assignee: ORTHOSENSOR INCInventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase
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Publication number: 20150128695Abstract: A multifunction fitness testing device is disclosed. The multifunction fitness testing device includes a main body, a muscular endurance test part, a flexibility test part, a grip test part, and a host computer. The muscular endurance test part connects to the main body. The muscular endurance test part includes a foot fixing part and a folding plate. The foot fixing part connects to the folding plate. The flexibility test part is located near the foot fixing part. The host computer connects to the main body and electrically connects to the folding plate, the flexibility test part, and the grip test part.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 7, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventor: Hsu-Chih Tai
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Patent number: 8950256Abstract: An optimal bicycle frame size based on operational characteristics provided by a rider when riding a dynamic fit unit is determined. A best-fit bicycle frame size that is a closest match to the optimal frame size is determined. At least one of the optimal X,Y location of the bicycle's handlebar relative to the bottom bracket, and the optimal X,Y location of the bicycle's seat relative to the bottom bracket, is determined. A stem and spacer from a list of available stems and spacers that will best fit between the head tube of the best-fit frame and the optimal X,Y location of the handlebar is determined. A seat post from a list of available seat posts that will best fit between the seat tube of the best-fit frame and the optimal X,Y location of the seat is determined. A list of the best-fit frame, the best fit stem and spacer, and the best fit seat post, is produced.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2012Date of Patent: February 10, 2015Assignee: Dorel Hungary KFT Luxembourg BranchInventors: Christopher Kautz, Scott Alan Rice, Jean-Paul Racine, Jason Andrew Clark, Antonio Giannascoli
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Publication number: 20140297070Abstract: The invention relates to a method for measuring the output power produced in a device having a crankset, including the following steps: a) measuring the orthogonal force (F) exerted on at least one pedal (9) of the crank (3); b) determining the angular velocity of the crank; and c) deducing the tangential force (FT) exerted on the crank and the power, using a pre-established model of the distribution of the force exerted on the actuating member as a function of the angular velocity,Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: October 2, 2014Applicants: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES, DECATHLONInventors: Jean-Philippe Gros, Dominique David, Gorka Arrizabalaga, Cédric Morio, Philippe Androuet, Sébastien Brulais
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Patent number: 8826733Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes electronic circuitry and sensors to measure a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. Sensors can be used to monitor synovial fluid in proximity to the joint to determine joint health. The prosthetic component can include a temperature sensor or a pH sensor. The temperature or pH of the synovial fluid can be correlated to a variety of joint conditions. Measurements over time can be analyzed for trends. The temperature or pH can be calibrated for the patient. For example, calibration can be for temperature or pH of a patient healthy joint. The measurements are compared against this patient reference.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Orthosensor IncInventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase, John Keggi, Noah Bonnheim, Natalie Burkhard, Philip Henson
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Patent number: 8800366Abstract: This invention relates to a robotic exoskeleton comprising mechanical linkages that couple to one or more selected joints of a limb of a subject. The robotic exoskeleton may be provided with means for obtaining data respecting angular position, torque, and/or acceleration of at least one of the joints or the links of the mechanical linkages, and may be used for assessing, studying, diagnosing a deficit, and/or treating an impairment in sensorimotor function of a limb of a subject.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2012Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Queen's University at KingstonInventors: Stephen H. Scott, Ian E. Brown, Stephen J. Ball
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Publication number: 20140174174Abstract: Embodiments disclosed include a system and method for development of core muscles' support, comprising a means for identifying a user qualifying movement, a means for detecting a core muscle contraction in the identified qualifying movement, a means for discriminating between a core muscle contraction and no core muscle contraction in the identified qualifying movement; and a means to provide feedback to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2013Publication date: June 26, 2014Applicant: Alert Core, Inc.Inventors: Gregory Takeo Uehara, Brian Taylor Brunn
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Patent number: 8746062Abstract: A measurement system for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a capacitor, a signal generator, a digital counter, counter register, a digital clock, a digital timer, and a data register. The sensor of the measurement system is the capacitor. The measurement system generates a repeating signal having a measurement cycle that corresponds to the capacitance of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises more than one capacitor mechanically in series. Electrically, the capacitor comprises more than one capacitor in parallel. In one embodiment, the capacitor includes a dielectric layer comprising polyimide. A force, pressure, or load is applied to the capacitor that elastically compresses the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Orthosensor Inc.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew U. Chase
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Publication number: 20140137647Abstract: A one repetition maximum (1RM) estimating apparatus includes a potential signal receiving unit configured to receive a potential signal of a muscle from a sensor attached to a user, and a 1RM estimating unit configured to estimate a 1RM of the user based on the potential signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2013Publication date: May 22, 2014Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Youn Ho Kim, Sang Kon Bae, Chang Mok Choi, Byung Hoon Ko, Kun Soo Shin
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Patent number: 8720270Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes electronic circuitry and sensors to measure a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone, and at least one sensor. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. The prosthetic component includes at least on transmissive region. The transmissive region can be located in a region that has exposure to a region outside the joint. The transmissive region can comprise glass. One or more sensors can be used to monitor synovial fluid in proximity to the joint to determine joint health. The transmissive region can be used to support communication between the electronic circuitry and remote system.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Ortho Sensor Inc.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew U. Chase, Philip Henson, Natalie Tran Burkhard, John Graham Keggi, Noah Byron Bonnheim
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Patent number: 8714008Abstract: In a thermal sensor with a detection part and a circuit part formed on the same substrate, an insulating film for protection of the circuit part causes problems of lowering in sensitivity of a heater, deterioration in accuracy due to variation of a residual stress in the detection part, etc. A layered film including insulating films is formed on a heating resistor, an intermediate layer is formed thereon, and a layered film including insulating films is formed further thereon. The intermediate layer is specified to be a layer made up of any one of aluminum nitride, aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, titanium nitride, tungsten nitride, and titanium tungsten. This configuration enables the layered film on the upper part of the detection part to be removed using the intermediate layer as an etch stop layer, which solves problems of lowering in sensitivity, a variation in residual stress, etc. resulting from these.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Hitachi Automotive Systems, Ltd.Inventor: Noriyuki Sakuma
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Patent number: 8707782Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component includes electronic circuitry and sensors to measure a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone, and at least one sensor. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. One or more sensors can be used to monitor synovial fluid in proximity to the joint to determine joint health. The prosthetic component includes a transmissive region. One or more optical sensors are mounted in proximity to the transmissive region. Periodic measurements of the synovial fluid are measured through the transmissive region. The measurements can include color and turbidity of the synovial fluid. The color and turbidity data can be compared against known data to determine joint status.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Orthosensor IncInventors: Marc Stein, Andrew U. Chase, Philip Henson, Natalie Burkhard, John Keggi, Noah Bonnheim
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Patent number: 8701484Abstract: A measurement system for measuring a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The measurement system comprises a capacitor, a signal generator, a digital counter, counter register, a digital clock, a digital timer, and a data register. The sensor of the measurement system is the capacitor. The measurement system generates a repeating signal having a measurement cycle that corresponds to the capacitance of the capacitor. The capacitor comprises more than one capacitor mechanically in series. Electrically, the capacitor comprises more than one capacitor in parallel. In one embodiment, the capacitor includes a dielectric layer comprising polyimide. A force, pressure, or load is applied to the capacitor that elastically compresses the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Orthosensor Inc.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew U. Chase
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Patent number: 8661893Abstract: A prosthetic component suitable for long-term implantation is provided. The prosthetic component measures a parameter of the muscular-skeletal system is disclosed. The prosthetic component comprises a first structure having at least one support surface, a second structure having at least one feature configured to couple to bone, and at least one sensor. The electronic circuitry and sensors are hermetically sealed within the prosthetic component. The sensor couples to the support surface of the first structure. The support surface of the first structure is compliant. The first and second structure are coupled together housing the at least one sensor. In one embodiment, the first and second structure are welded together forming the hermetic seal that isolates the at least one sensor from an external environment. The at least one sensor can be a pressure sensor for measuring load and position of load.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Orthosensor Inc.Inventors: Marc Stein, Andrew Chase
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Publication number: 20140000361Abstract: A bicycle including a frame that has a bottom bracket and a crankset attached to the bottom bracket. The crankset includes a sprocket assembly and a spider that has a flexible arm coupled to the sprocket assembly. The bicycle also includes a pedal coupled to the crankset and operable to propel the bicycle in response to a force acting on the pedal, and a sensor apparatus. The sensor apparatus has a sensor element positioned to sense a force transferred from the pedal to the sprocket assembly and indicative of the force acting on the pedal.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2012Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: SPECIALIZED BICYCLE COMPONENTS, INC.Inventor: Chuck Teixeira
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Patent number: 8584520Abstract: An apparatus for pedalling measurement is presented. The apparatus comprises a casing arranged to be attached to a crank of a cycle. The casing comprises a signal processing circuitry configured to process a measurement signal related to pedaling. The casing further comprises a protrusion arranged to be disposed at least partially into a hole of a spindle of a pedal, wherein the protrusion provides the apparatus with a mechanic support with respect to the spindle and an electric connection between the signal processing circuitry and a measurement circuitry comprised in the spindle. Furthermore, there is provided a cycling apparatus comprising the above-mentioned apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2011Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Polar Electric OyInventors: Olli Kokkoneva, Visa Rauta