Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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SYSTEM, DEVICES, AND METHODS INCLUDING A SPINAL
RESISTANCE ASSEMBLY
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to US Application No. 16/128,449 filed
September
11, 2018, which claims priority to US Provisional Application No. 62/566,410
filed
September 30, 2017, which are hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
SUMMARY
In an aspect, the present disclosure is directed to, among other things, a
neck
strengthening device. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes
a spinal
resistance assembly having at least one resistance component configured to
resist rotation
about a first axis. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes a
spinal
resistance assembly having at least one resistance component configured to
resist lateral
rotation of the neck during use. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening
device includes a
device securing assembly configured to physically anchor the device to an
anchoring
structure. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes a head
affixing
assembly physically coupled to the spinal resistance assembly. In an
embodiment, the head
affixing assembly is configured to secure to a head of a user (e.g., person,
patient, athlete,
etc.) during use.
In an aspect, the present disclosure is directed to, among other things, a
spinal
resistance strengthening system. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
strengthening
system includes circuitry configured generate user-specific neck strengthening
information.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening system includes
circuitry configured to
exchange neck strengthening information with one or more of a remote client
device, server,
network, enterprise server, and the like. In an embodiment, the spinal
resistance
strengthening system includes circuitry configured to initiate a discovery
protocol that allows
the spinal resistance strengthening device and a client device to find each
other and negotiate
one or more pre-shared keys. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
strengthening system
includes circuitry configured to initiate a discovery protocol that allows the
spinal resistance
strengthening device and a client device to find each other and establish an
encrypted secure
connection. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening system
includes circuitry
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configured to exchange neck strengthening information with a remote client
device. In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening system includes circuitry
configured to
exchange anonymized and encrypted neck strengthening information with a remote
client
device.
In an aspect, the present disclosure is directed to, among other things, a
strengthening
device. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes a resistance
assembly
having at least one resistance component configured to resist movement about a
first axis. In
an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes an affixing assembly
physically
coupled to the resistance assembly, the affixing assembly configured to secure
to a body part
of a user. In an embodiment, the neck strengthening device includes a device
securing
assembly configured to physically anchor the device to an anchoring structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
Figures 1A-1E are perspective views of a strengthening device according to one
or
more embodiments.
Figures 2A and 2B show a spinal resistance strengthening system according to
one or
more embodiments.
Figure 3 is a block diagram of a strengthening device according to an
embodiment.
Figure 4 shows a flow diagram of a method according to one embodiment.
Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show a spinal resistance strengthening system according
to
one or more embodiments.
Figures 6A and 6B show an analytics representation for a spinal resistance
strengthening system according to one or more embodiments.
In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying
drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings, similar symbols typically
identify
similar components, unless context dictates otherwise. The illustrative
embodiments
described in the detailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to
be limiting.
Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made, without
departing from
the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented here.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Musculoskeletal disorders are the second most common cause of disability
worldwide, measured by years lived with disability. Storheim K, Zwart JA
Musculoskeletal
disorders and the global burden of disease study. Ann Rheumatic Dis 73: 949-
950 (2014);
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see also Hoy D, March L, Brooks P, et al. The global burden of low back pain:
estimates
from the Global Burden of Disease 2010 study. Ann Rheum Dis 2014;73:968-74.
The most
common musculoskeletal disorders are neck and low back pain. Neck pain plagues
approximately a quarter of the population at any given time, resulting in
increased medical
costs, loss of productivity, and adds to the proliferation of pain
medications.
Neck pain results from many causes including degenerative conditions, trauma,
and
sports injuries. Injury and degeneration of the cervical spine have also been
shown to cause
tension headaches, nerve injury in the neck. These conditions are still poorly
understood, and
clinicians are often left with a trial and error strategy regarding diagnostic
investigation and
treatment.
Systematic reviews reveal that existing treatments have only small effects at
best,
regardless of whether the intervention is based on a biological,
psychological, or social
approaches. Accordingly, there is the potential for better management by
implementing
effective health promoting actions and evidence supporting the recommendation
of
preventive measures such as weight loss and exercise for low back pain.
Storheim K, Zwart
JA Musculoskeletal disorders and the global burden of disease study. Ann
Rheumatic Dis 73:
949-950 (2014).
Degenerative disc disease and neck injuries, including whiplash, result in
loss of
curvature of the spine and decreases in range of motion. The neck moves in
multiple planes
including flexion and extension and rotation. Many devices allow strengthening
of flexion
and extension, however increasing rotational strength and mobility is critical
to preventing
and recovering from age-related problems, motor vehicle accidents, and sports
related
incidents. Recent studies have also shown that increased neck strength
decreases the
incidence of sports concussions. There is no device currently available which
provides a
constant resistance in rotation for the cervical spine. Accordingly, the
present disclosure
details one or more methodologies or technologies that allow user, patients,
and athletes to
increase rotational strength and improve mobility in multiple axes. Increased
neck strength
and mobility results in quicker recovery from injury and prevents traumatic
neck and head
injuries.
In an embodiment, the present disclosure details one or more methodologies or
technologies that utilizes a novel approach, employing a variable applied
force, to provide
constant resistance to the cervical spine about one or more axes or planes of
movement. In an
embodiment, this not only allows for strengthening in both the traditional
flexion and
extension planes, but also uniquely provides constant resistance in the
rotational axis.
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In an embodiment, the present disclosure details one or more methodologies or
technologies including a device configured to provide a distraction movement
which can be
used to decompress an injured spine. In an embodiment, such complementary
exercises
result in balanced strengthening program for the cervical spine which
maximizes the neck's
range of motion and prevents injury.
Figures 1A-1E show a strengthening device 102 in which one or more
methodologies
or technologies can be implemented such as, for example, providing constant
resistance to
lateral rotation of the cervical spine. In an embodiment, the strengthening
device 102
includes a spinal resistance assembly 104 including at least one resistance
component
configured to resist rotation about a first axis 112. In an embodiment, the
strengthening
device 102 includes a device securing assembly 106 configured to physically
anchor the
device to an anchoring structure 110. In an embodiment, the strengthening
device 102
includes a head affixing assembly 108 physically coupled to the spinal
resistance assembly
104, the head affixing assembly 108 configured to secure to a head of a user.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 is configured and dimensioned
to be
portable. For example, in an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 is made
from
lightweight materials and includes collapsible structures for ease of
portability. In an
embodiment, the strengthening device 102 is configured for home use.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes a resistance assembly
104
configured to permit left and right lateral neck rotation of a user about the
first axis while
substantially limiting flexional and extensional movement. For example, during
operation, a
user experiences a resistive force about the first axis as the user rotate
neck and head, which
helps to exercise and strengthen the neck and spinal muscles. Non-limiting
example of neck
and spinal muscles include longissimus capitis, rectus capitis posterior
major, rectus capitis
posterior minor, scalene muscles, semispinalis, splenius capitis,
sternocleidomastoid, and the
like.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 is configured to permit
lateral
neck rotation of a user about the first axis while substantially limiting
flexional and
extensional movement of the head and neck. In an embodiment, the spinal
resistance
assembly 104 includes one or more of a mechanical component, electromechanical
component, magnetic component, electromagnetic component, hydraulic component,
or a
pneumatic component configured to resist rotation about the first axis. For
example, in an
embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes a magnetic component
configured
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to exert a drag force on a metal structure to resist head and neck rotation of
a user about the
first axis.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes an
electromagnetic
component configured to exert a drag force on a metal structure to resist head
and neck
rotation of a user about the first axis. In an embodiment, the spinal
resistance assembly 104
includes a magnetic component configured to adjust an applied drag force by
modulating or
varying a magnetic field. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104
includes a
magnetic component configured to adjust an applied drag force by moving a
magnet further
or closer to a ferromagnetic element.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes a magnetic
component
configured to adjust an applied drag responsive to an applied voltage. In an
embodiment, the
spinal resistance assembly 104 includes an eddy current brake. In an
embodiment, the spinal
resistance assembly 104 includes a ferrofluid configured to change a resistive
force in the
presence of an applied voltage.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes a friction pad
applied
to a rotor. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes an
elector-
mechanical braking pad assembly. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
assembly 104
includes an adjustable mechanical brake.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 is configured to exert
hydraulic
resistance by actuation of a propeller in a fluid to resist head and neck
rotation of a user about
the first axis. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 is
configured to exert
hydraulic resistance by directing a fluid through a variable orifice to resist
head and neck
rotation of a user about the first axis. In an embodiment, the spinal
resistance assembly 104
is configured to exert pneumatic resistance by directing a fluid through a
variable orifice to
resist head and neck rotation of a user about the first axis.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes one or more
pulleys
coupled to at least one weight configured to exert a pull force to resist head
and neck rotation
of a user about the first axis. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
assembly 104 includes
one or more springs configured to exert a pull force to resist head and neck
rotation of a user
about the first axis. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104
includes one or
more torque springs configured to resist rotation about the first axis.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes a spinal resistance
assembly
104 having one or more of a mechanical component, electromechanical component,
magnetic
component, electromagnetic component, hydraulic component, and a pneumatic
component
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configured to resist flexion and extension about a second axis. In an
embodiment, the spinal
resistance assembly 104 includes at least one resistance component configured
to resist
movement about a third axis different from the first axis and the second axis.
In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes at least one
resistance component
configured to resist movement about an axis different from the first axis.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 is further configured to
permit
flexional and extensional movement of a user about an axis different from the
first axis. In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes at least one of a
mechanical
component, electromechanical component, magnetic component, electromagnetic
component,
hydraulic component, or a pneumatic component configured to resist lateral
flexion and
extension about a second axis.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes a securing assembly
106
configured to anchor the strengthening device 102 to support structure (e.g.,
a base, stand,
supporting structure, anchoring structure, harness worn by the user, squat
rack, door frame,
bed frame, wall mount, and the like). For example, in an embodiment, the
device securing
assembly 106 includes mechanical ratchet device 114 configured to friction fit
to a door
frame.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes a latching
structure
configured to releasably attach to a base stand. In an embodiment, the device
securing
assembly 106 includes an adjustable clamping element configured to secure the
strengthening
device to a door frame.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes one or more
fasteners
configured to secure the strengthening device to a support structure. Non-
limiting examples
of fasteners include one or more nuts and bolts, clamps, screws, pins, rivets,
hook-and-loop
fasteners, hook-and-pile fasteners, touch fasteners, and the like.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes a pneumatic
ratchet and
clamp device configured to secure the strengthening device to a support
structure. In an
embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes mechanical ratchet
device
configured to friction fit to a door frame. In an embodiment, the device
securing assembly
106 includes a scissor jack configured to at least one of extend, push, lock,
or compress
against a door frame.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes an adjustable
fastening
structure configured to secure the strengthening device to a mating structure
affixed to a door
frame. In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes an
adjustable fastening
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structure configured to secure the strengthening device to a squat rack. In an
embodiment,
the device securing assembly 106 includes one or more telescoping arms that
lock into place
via combination of quick release snap buttons and compression springs. In an
embodiment,
the device securing assembly 106 includes one or more telescoping arms that
lock into place
via quick release snap buttons. In an embodiment, the device securing assembly
106 includes
one or more telescoping arms that lock into place via compression springs.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes a suction/vacuum
seal
configured to secure to the door frame. In an embodiment, the device securing
assembly 106
includes a suction/vacuum seal configured to secure to the door frame that
magnetically
couples to magnetic piece receptor piece previously installed on the door
frame.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes a head affixing
assembly
108 having at least one adjustable head strap configured to secure the
strengthening device to
a user. In an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108 includes at least one
adjustable
chin strap configured to secure the strengthening device to a user. In an
embodiment, the
head affixing assembly 108 includes a self-forming memory foam to custom fit
to custom
contours of the head. In an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108
includes one or
more inflatable bladders configured to pneumatically secure the device to a
user's head.
In an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108 includes a helmet with
internal
pneumatic bladders configured to tighten securely around the crown of the head
of a user. In
an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108 includes a helmet with internal
pneumatic
bladders configured to tighten securely around the crown of the head of a
user, against the
cheekbones and around the base of the skull, sharing a common mechanical
interface that
latches to a device drive ring.
In an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108 includes a plate that flank
each
side of the head that adjusted by a controller (e.g., a screw assembly, an
adjustment
mechanism, a graduated adjustment mechanism, and the like) to tighten and
secure device to
the head.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more sensors
configured to determine position, orientation, resistance, rotation direction,
rotation velocity,
and the like of the strengthening device 102. Non-limiting examples of sensors
include
acoustic sensors, charge-coupled devices (CCDs), complementary metal¨oxide¨
semiconductor (CMOS) devices, transducers, optical recognition sensors,
detectors,
electromagnetic energy sensors, image sensors, infrared sensors, nodes,
optical sensors,
photodiode arrays, radio frequency components sensors, thermo sensors,
transducers, Hall
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Effect sensors, capacitance sensors, and the like Further non-limiting
examples of sensors
include angular velocity sensors, gyroscopes, steering angle sensors, rotation
speed sensors,
yaw-rate sensors, position sensors, and the like.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more
orientation-
aware sensors operably coupled to the strengthening device. For example, in an
embodiment,
the strengthening device 102 includes one or more multi-axis accelerometers
operably
coupled to the spinal resistance assembly 104 and configured to determine the
position and
the orientation of the strengthening device. In an embodiment, the
strengthening device 102
includes one or more gyroscopes operably coupled to the strengthening device
and
configured to generate position and the orientation information.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more of angular
velocity sensors, steering angle sensors, rotation speed sensors, yaw-rate
sensors, position
sensors, and nodes. In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes
one or more of
angular velocity sensors, accelerometers, directional sensors, geographical
sensor, inertial
navigation sensors, inertial sensors, motion sensors, steering angle sensors,
rotation speed
sensors, yaw-rate sensors, position sensors, and nodes.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more of
capacitance
sensors, contact sensors, strain sensors, flexure sensors, image sensors,
impedance sensors,
movement sensors, nodes, object gauge sensors, optical sensors, pressure
sensors,
transducers, ultrasonic transducers, and the like. In an embodiment, the
strengthening device
102 includes one or more sensors configured to assess range of motion. For
example, in an
embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more sensors
configured to assess
range of rotational motion of the spinal resistance assembly 104.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more sensors
configured to monitor resistance. For example, in an embodiment, the
strengthening device
102 includes one or more of integrated sensors (e.g., strain gauge, load
cells, and the like) to
determine and monitor user applied force, for example, while the user is
operating this as the
user moves back and forth, the strain gauge will monitor and report applied
force. In an
embodiment, the feedback from the force measurement is used to manage the
applied force
by the strengthening device 102 to vary the applied resistance experienced by
the user. In an
embodiment, a care provider can remotely configure the strengthening device
102 to
customize the therapy specific to an individual user's needs (e.g., to limit
resistance,
allowable rotation, and the like to prevent injury).
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In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes one or more of
integrated
electronic inertial measurement units, digital encoders, and Hall Effect
sensors configured to
enable determination of position relative to time during use. In an
embodiment, the
strengthening device 102 includes a plurality of sensors configured to capture
time series
position information, and force. In an embodiment, the strengthening device
102 includes
circuitry including an integrated gyro configured to generate installation and
position
information.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 communicates collected data to
an
associated client device that is configured to generate a virtual display of
the time series
position information. In the embodiment, the client device is configured to
display one or
more instances of user specific time series position information. In an
embodiment, the
strengthening device 102 is configured to exchange user-specific
acknowledgment or
corrective action information with a client device. In an embodiment, the
strengthening
device 102 is coupled to a client device configured to display an animation
that shows one or
more of motion vs time information for an individual exercise session, plot
range of motion
and force averaged over a series of exercise sessions, plot total exercise
times and exercise
duration per day, week, or month.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes circuitry including an
inertial sensor configured to detect velocity of motion. In an embodiment, the
strengthening
device 102 includes circuitry including one or more accelerometers configured
to track
stability in x, y, and z directions. In an embodiment, the strengthening
device 102 includes
circuitry including a safety switch configured to control an applied force
exerted by the spinal
resistance assembly 104 based on a target value.
In an embodiment, a user in need of strengthening therapy will anchor the
strengthening device 102, set a resistance value in accordance with the
treatment regiment,
and secure themselves to the strengthening device 102. In an embodiment, prior
to beginning
the exercise, the strengthening device 102 will provide feedback (e.g.,
haptic, audio, visual,
etc.) to ensure correct positioning in accordance with the protocol. In an
embodiment, as the
user begins to rotate head and neck, the strengthening device 102 will resist
motion and begin
to monitor and report one or more of force, position, time series data, and
the like.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 10 is configured to adjust
resistance to
comply with a target protocol responsive to one or more inputs associated with
the monitored
information. For example, in an embodiment, motion information is used to
provide one or
more of corrective feedback to the user, treatment progress status, applied
resistance
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information, posture, position, compliance information, and the like. In an
embodiment, the
reported information is communicated to an associated client device and
virtually displayed
to the user and health provider.
Referring to Figure 1C, in an embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104
includes a resistance mechanism 116 configured to adjust an applied drag
force. In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance assembly 104 includes one or more of a top
plate 118, a
traction cam 120, one or more traction cam followers 122, a drive ring 124,
drive pinion 126,
and a base plate 128.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 is configured to anchor the
strengthening device 102 to support structure (e.g., a base, stand, supporting
structure,
anchoring structure, harness worn by the user, squat rack, door frame, bed
frame, wall mount,
and the like). In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes one
or more
door frame feet 130. In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106
includes one or
more telescoping arms 132 and at least one telescoping mechanism 134.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 is configured to adjust the
strengthening device 102 along an axis parallel to the spine of the user. In
an embodiment,
the device securing assembly 106 is configured to adjust the strengthening
device 102
towards or away from a user, along an axis parallel to the spine of the user.
In an embodiment, the head affixing assembly 108 includes a head fixture 136
configured to secure to the strengthening device 102 to a user's head. In an
embodiment, the
head affixing assembly 108 includes head fixture quick releases 138.
Figures 2A and 2B show a spinal resistance strengthening device 202 in which
one or
more methodologies or technologies can be implemented such as, for example,
providing
constant resistance to lateral rotation of the cervical spine. In an
embodiment, the spinal
resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 204 configured generate
user-specific
neck strengthening information. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
strengthening
device 202 includes circuitry 206 configured to exchange neck strengthening
information
with a remote server device and locally to a client device. Non-limiting
examples of client
devices include application interface with smart devices, cell phone devices,
computer
devices, desktop computer devices, internet of things (IoT) devices, laptop
computer devices,
managed node devices, mobile client devices, notebook computer devices, remote
controllers,
smart devices, smart eyewear devices, smart wearable devices, tablet devices,
wearable
devices, and the like.
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In an embodiment neck strengthening information includes time stamped position
and
the associated resistance force magnitude at the provided position that
corresponds to user
movement and user applied force in the course of executing the exercise
protocol. Further
non-limiting examples of neck strengthening information include motion vs time
for an
individual exercise session, range of motion and force averaged over a series
of exercise
sessions, total exercise times and exercise duration per day, week, or month,
and the like.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 is instrumented with an
embedded
computer via application of an embedded Micro-Processing Unit (MPH) with
integrated
program memory and custom embedded software. The MPU monitors and controls the
exercise system and enables network communication for data exchange between
client and
server devices. The MPU interface to the system via custom logic, custom
analog circuitry,
power conversion circuitry, wired and wireless network data communication
peripherals, and
position and force sensors, and actuators. The embedded computer supports
secure data
exchange with client and server devices to monitor and set device
configuration and monitor
and remotely record exercise activity and performance monitoring data.
In an embodiment, circuitry includes, among other things, one or more
computing
devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, and the like), a central
processing unit
(CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated
circuit (ASIC), a
field programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, or any combinations
thereof, and can
include discrete digital or analog circuit elements or electronics, or
combinations thereof. In
an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more ASICs having a plurality of
predefined logic
components. In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more FPGAs having a
plurality of
programmable logic components. In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or
more remotely
located components. In an embodiment, remotely located components are operably
coupled
via wireless communication. In an embodiment, remotely located components are
operably
coupled via one or more receivers, transceivers, or transmitters, or the like.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 102 includes circuitry having one
or more
components operably coupled (e.g., communicatively, electromagnetically,
magnetically,
ultrasonically, optically, inductively, electrically, capacitively coupled,
and the like) to each
other. In an embodiment, a component includes one or more remotely located
components.
In an embodiment, remotely located components are operably coupled, for
example, via
wireless communication. In an embodiment, remotely located components are
operably
coupled, for example, via one or more receivers, transmitters, transceivers,
antennas, or the
like.
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In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more memory devices that, for
example,
store instructions or data. For example, in an embodiment, circuitry 204
configured generate
user-specific neck strengthening information includes one or more memory
devices that store
one or more parameters associated a user-specific neck strengthening
information event, and
the like. Non-limiting examples of one or more memory devices include volatile
memory
(e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM), Dynamic Random-Access Memory (DRAM), or the
like), non-volatile memory (e.g., Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically
Erasable
Programmable Read-Only Memory (Flash memory), or the like), persistent memory,
or the
like. The one or more memory devices can be coupled to, for example, one or
more
computing devices by one or more instructions, data, or power buses.
In an embodiment, where applicable, circuitry includes peripheral devices such
as
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB (or other wireless or wired network communication
peripherals cable
of data exchange with remote client and server computers), and cellular
connectivity to
exchange data, exchange control commands, configure the device, and remotely
monitor
device parameters.
In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more user input/output components
that
are operably coupled to the device to generate a user interface that enables
access to all user
configurable parameters.
In an embodiment, circuitry includes computing circuitry, memory circuitry,
electrical
circuitry, electro-mechanical circuity, control circuitry, transceiver
circuitry, transmitter
circuitry, receiver circuitry, and the like. For example, in an embodiment,
circuitry 206
configured to exchange neck strengthening information with a remote client
device includes
computing device circuitry, memory circuitry, and at least one of transceiver
circuitry,
transmitter circuitry, or receiver circuitry.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
208 configured to initiate a discovery protocol that allows the spinal
resistance strengthening
device and a client device to find each other and negotiate one or more pre-
shared keys to
provide an encrypted secure connection. Individual devices will be configured
in hardware
with a unique identifier to establish a secure IoT connection. In an
embodiment, the spinal
resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 210 configured to
exchange neck
strengthening information with a remote client device and remote server. In an
embodiment,
the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 212
configured to receive
one or more inputs associated with a neck strengthening event.
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In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
214 configured to generate a user interface presenting a menu of treatment
choices. In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry
216 configured
to generate audible instructions. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance
strengthening
device 202 includes circuitry 218 configured to generate haptic feedback. In
an embodiment,
the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 220
including a screen and a
user interface configured to allow a user to visually select device settings,
modes, and options
and interact with the device.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
222 configured to exchange onboard sensor information with a remote client
device. In an
embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry
224 including
one or more sensors configured to assess range of motion. In an embodiment,
the spinal
resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 226 including one or
more sensors
configured to monitor resistance.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
228 including one or more integrated electronic inertial measurement units,
digital encoders,
hall effect sensors configured to enables determination of position relative
to time during use.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry 230
including an embedded system having a microcontroller that interfaces to a
plurality of
sensors and captures time synchronized position and force. In an embodiment,
the spinal
resistance strengthening device 202 includes circuitry 232 configured to
exchange onboard
sensor information with a remote client device.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
234 including an integrated gyro configured to generate installation and
position information.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry 236
including an inertial sensor configured to detect velocity of motion.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes
circuitry
238 including one or more accelerometers configured to track stability in x,
y, and z
directions. In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202
includes
circuitry 240 including a safety switch configured to control an applied force
exerted by the
spinal resistance assembly 104 based on a target value.
In an embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 supports data
exchange with a remote computer server that monitors and records user specific
exercise
performance data. In an embodiment, the remote server executes a custom
application that
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enabled user specific data storage, retrieval, configuration, and reporting.
For example, in an
embodiment, the spinal resistance strengthening device 202 includes host
computational
circuitry 242 configured for one or more of client data capture, client data
storage, client
reporting, and client provisioning and configuration. In an embodiment, the
host
computational circuitry 242 includes account management circuitry configured
to allow one
or more of creation, deletion, and modification and secure client account
access grouped
under a care provider as administrator for viewing client exercise data and
creating
customized reports.
In an embodiment, the host server computational circuitry 242 includes
circuitry
including memory configured to store client data. In an embodiment, the host
computational
circuitry 242 includes a reporting tool that allows creation of customizable
reports for
individual clients and groups of clients assigned to the care provider. In an
embodiment, the
host computational circuitry 242 includes a client portal allows individual
clients to track
user-specific progress. In an embodiment, the host computational circuitry 242
includes a
customized reporting screen that allow monitoring of individual patient
exercise progress
over time.
In an embodiment, during operation, a care provider can play an animation that
displays motion vs time for an individual exercise session, plot range of
motion and force
averaged over a series of exercise sessions, plot total exercise times and
exercise duration per
day, week, or month.
In an embodiment, the host computational circuitry 242 includes configuration
tools
that allow monitoring and management of client device features and client
device
configuration. In an embodiment, the host computational circuitry 242 includes
an expert
system that analyzes client data for proper execution and adherence to a
prescribed exercise
protocol.
In an embodiment, the host computational circuitry 242 includes circuitry
configured
to generate an electronic message to a client with customized messages for
acknowledgment
or corrective action.
Figure 3 shows a strengthening device 302 in which one or more methodologies
or
technologies can be implemented such as, for example, providing constant
resistance to one
or more of flexional and extensional movement, lateral flexion and extension,
and lateral
rotation of a body part. In an embodiment, the strengthening device 302
includes a resistance
assembly 304 including at least one resistance component configured to resist
rotation about
a first axis.
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In an embodiment, the strengthening device 302 can not only be used to
strengthen
the cervical spine, but can be converted to strengthen other rotational joints
such as the
shoulder, knee, hip, etc. For example, in an embodiment, the resistance
assembly 304
includes at least one of a mechanical component, electromechanical component,
magnetic
component, electromagnetic component, hydraulic component, or a pneumatic
component
configured to resist flexion and extension about a second axis. In an
embodiment, the
resistance assembly 304 includes at least one resistance component configured
to resist
movement about a third axis different from the first axis and the second axis.
In an
embodiment, the resistance assembly 304 includes at least one resistance
component
configured to resist movement about an axis different from the first axis. In
an embodiment,
the resistance assembly 304 is further configured to permit flexional and
extensional
movement of a user about an axis different from the first axis.
In an embodiment, the resistance assembly 304 includes at least one of a
mechanical
component, electromechanical component, magnetic component, electromagnetic
component,
hydraulic component, or a pneumatic component configured to resist lateral
flexion and
extension about a second axis.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 302 includes a device securing
assembly
306 configured to physically anchor the device to an anchoring structure.
In an embodiment, the strengthening device 302 includes an affixing assembly
308
physically coupled to the resistance assembly 304, the affixing assembly 308
configured to
secure to a body part of a user.
Figures 4 shows a spinal strengthening method 400. At 410, the method 400
includes
securing a user to a head affixing assembly physically coupled to a spinal
resistance
assembly.
At 420, the method 400 includes applying a resistive force responsive to head
and
neck rotation of a user about a first axis. At 422, applying the resistive
force responsive to
head and neck rotation includes exerting a drag force on a metal structure to
resist head and
neck rotation of the user about the first axis. At 424, applying the resistive
force responsive
to head and neck rotation includes adjusting an applied drag force by
modulating a magnetic
field to resist head and neck rotation of the user about the first axis. At
426, applying the
resistive force responsive to head and neck rotation includes exerting a
hydraulic resistance
by directing a fluid through a variable orifice to resist head and neck
rotation of a user about
the first axis. At 428, applying the resistive force responsive to head and
neck rotation
includes exerting pneumatic resistance by directing a fluid through a variable
orifice to resist
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head and neck rotation of the user about the first axis. At 430, applying the
resistive force
responsive to head and neck rotation includes exerting a mechanical pull force
to resist head
and neck rotation of the user about the first axis. At 432, applying the
resistive force
responsive to head and neck rotation includes applying a force of character
and for a duration
sufficient to permit left and right lateral neck rotation of the user about
the first axis while
substantially limiting flexional and extensional movement.
At 440, the method 400 includes securing the spinal resistance assembly to an
anchoring structure. At 442, securing the spinal resistance assembly to the
anchoring
structure includes friction fitting the spinal resistance assembly to a door
frame. At 444,
securing the spinal resistance assembly to the anchoring structure includes
latching the spinal
resistance assembly to a base stand. At 446, securing the spinal resistance
assembly to the
anchoring structure includes clamping the spinal resistance assembly to a door
frame. At
448, securing the spinal resistance assembly to the anchoring structure
includes fastening the
spinal resistance assembly to a support structure.
Figures 5A, 5B, and 5C show a strengthening device 502 which is adjustable
along an
axis substantially parallel to the spine of a user, in which one or more
methodologies or
technologies can be implemented such as, for example, providing constant
resistance to
lateral rotation of the cervical spine. In an embodiment, wherein the user is
seated or
standing, the vertically adjustable strengthening device 502 includes a spinal
resistance
assembly 104 including at least one resistance component configured to resist
rotation about
a first axis 513. In an embodiment, Vertical Adjustment rail 503 is configured
to mount to a
wall.
In an embodiment, the device securing assembly 106 includes one or more
fasteners
configured to secure the strengthening device to a support structure. Non-
limiting examples
of fasteners include one or more nuts and bolts, clamps, screws, pins, rivets,
hook-and-loop
fasteners, hook-and-pile fasteners, touch fasteners, and the like.
In an embodiment, Vertical Adjustment Rail 503, is composed of a vertically
orientated rail that physically couples to Vertical Positioning Assembly 504.
The geometry of
Adjustment and permanently coupling rail 503 guides the vertical motion and
physically
couples to Vertical Positioning Assembly 504, so that's its height can be set
at a point to be
used by a patient.
In an embodiment, Vertical Adjustment Rail 503, contains a measurement scale
to
indicate the relative height in which Vertical Positioning Assembly 504 can be
positioned.
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In an embodiment, Vertical Positioning Assembly 504, contains three
subsystems;
Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, Micro Adjustment Mechanism 506 and Electronic
Display Interface 508. In an embodiment, Vertical Positioning Assembly 504,
couples to
Device Housing Assembly 509.
In an embodiment, Vertical Positioning Assembly 504, has a marker that
indicates a
relative positioned on the measurement scale on Vertical Adjustment Rail 503.
In an
embodiment, Device Housing Assembly 509, couples to a Head Interface 510 and a
Resistance Mechanism 507. In an embodiment, Device Housing Assembly 509, a
patient is
attached to the Head Interface 512, and rotates about First Axis 513, and
consists of a
position indicator 514 that includes a LED array connected along the arc of
travel to guide a
user to constant angular velocity.
In an embodiment, Device Housing Assembly 509, a patient is attached to the
Head
Interface 512, and rotates about First Axis 513, an audio cue (i.e. counter,
metronome),
indicates use to move at a constant angular velocity.
In an embodiment, Device Housing Assembly 509, a patient is attached to the
Head
Interface 512, and rotates about First Axis 513, and consists of a position
indicator 514 that
includes a mechanical component that attaches to Head Interface 512, that
indicates position
relative to a static origin position.
In an embodiment, position indicator 514, contains a method indicating
position of
rotation in each direction (clockwise and counter-clockwise) about the first
axis 513, by an
array of LED lights. In an embodiment, position indicator 514, contains a
method of
indicating position of rotation in each direction (clockwise and counter-
clockwise) about the
first axis 513, by angular measurements marked relative to an origin. In an
embodiment,
position indicator 514, contains a method to indicate position of rotation in
each direction
(clockwise and counter-clockwise) about the first axis 513, by audible or
visual cue when
intended range of motion is exceeded. In an embodiment, Head Interface 108,
contains a
Chin Strap 511 and a Head Tightening Attachment Mechanism 512 that allows a
patient to
connect to Vertically Adjustable Strengthening device 502 per the size and/or
position of
their head.
In an embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, contains two handles that
can
be locked and unlocked to the Vertical Adjustment Rail 503 via combination of
springs, pins
and locking holes.
In an embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, contains two handles that be
locked and unlocked to the Vertical Adjustment Rail 503 via a combination
brake pad,
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springs and pins. In an embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, contains
two
handles that when in the unlocked position can easily move vertically along
the Vertical
Adjustment Rail 503.
In an embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, combination of springs, pins
and locking holes that can lock and unlock to Vertical Adjustment Rail 503. In
an
embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, contains a combination of gears
(spur,
worm, bevel, etc.) and a rack powered by a motor (DC, Servo, Hydraulic,
Pneumatic, etc.)
that translates to rapid vertical motion along Vertical Adjustment Rail 503.
In an
embodiment, Macro Adjustment Mechanism 505, contains a combination of gears
(spur,
worm, bevel, etc.) and a rack that is manually (non-motor/power controlled)
controlled via
input crank/knob that translates to rapid vertical motion along Vertical
Adjustment Rail 503.
In an embodiment, Micro Adjustment Mechanism 506, contains a controller that
translates to fine vertical motion of Vertical Positioning Assembly 504 along
Fine Vertical
Adjustment Rail 515. In an embodiment, Micro Adjustment Mechanism 506,
contains a
combination of gears (spur, worm, bevel, etc.) and a rack that translates to
fine vertical
motion along Fine Vertical Adjustment Rail 515. In an embodiment, Micro
Adjustment
Mechanism 506, contains a combination of gears (spur, worm, bevel, etc.) and a
rack
powered by a motor (DC, Servo, Hydraulic, Pneumatic, etc.) that translates to
rapid vertical
motion along Fine Vertical Adjustment Rail 515.
To put the aforementioned sensors and analysis in context Figure 6A
illustrates a
simple example of the type of analytic typical of a local Bluetooth linked
cell phone
application making use of the sensors in some embodiments. Figure 6A shows
what one
might expect of plotting the head's position (602) with respect to the
resistive force being
applied (604) restricting head movement for a magnetic force due to parasitic
eddy current
torque. The dashed line (606) shows an actual measurement one could plot for
one cycle of
head rotation.
With the head in the initial rest position the opposing resistive force is
zero. As the
head starts to rotate the opposing force quickly rises to a fixed level as
controlled by a
feedback of the sensors to control the strength of the magnetic field to a pre-
determined
constant force. As the head reaches the extreme limit of rotation and stops
the force again
falls to zero then changes polarity as the head moves in the opposite
direction. At the other
extreme it reverses again.
Figure 6B shows an idealized example of a "profile" one could generate
graphically
on a local cell phone application, in a more sophisticated environment
elsewhere, if the plot is
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recorded over time (608) as the third axis in a three-dimensional (3D) plot.
The 3D plot is
useful as a graphic portrayal of how the subject is performing over the length
of a session.
The example in Figure 6B is highly idealistic, with each cycle the same, when
in a real
situation one would see the effect of physical defects or lack of them in as
well.
The profile is a graphic representation of the measurements made and requires
no
human intervention and is manipulated as a simple 3D picture for later
interpretation. In this
respect it would be equivalent to "fingerprint" or a "signature" of a physical
condition such as
a cardiogram is for the heart.
Throughout this description used position and force as the two axis of the
plot and
profile, one could certainly choose two or more other types of sensors with a
meaningful
relationship to create a different set of plots and profiles.
The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components
contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be
understood that
such depicted architectures are merely examples, and that in fact, many other
architectures
can be implemented that achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense,
any
arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively
"associated" such
that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein
combined to
achieve a particular functionality can be seen as "associated with" each other
such that the
desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or
intermedial components.
Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being
"operably
connected," or "operably coupled," to each other to achieve the desired
functionality, and any
two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being
"operably
coupleable," to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific
examples of
operably coupleable include, but are not limited to, physically mateable,
physically
interacting components, wirelessly interactable, wirelessly interacting
components, logically
interacting, logically interactable components, etc.
In an embodiment, one or more components may be referred to herein as
"configured
to," "configurable to," "operable/operative to," "adapted/adaptable," "able
to,"
"conformable/conformed to," etc. Such terms (e.g., "configured to") can
generally
encompass active-state components, or inactive-state components, or standby-
state
components, unless context requires otherwise.
The foregoing detailed description has set forth various embodiments of the
devices
or processes via the use of block diagrams, flowcharts, or examples. Insofar
as such block
diagrams, flowcharts, or examples contain one or more functions or operations,
it will be
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understood by the reader that each function or operation within such block
diagrams,
flowcharts, or examples can be implemented, individually or collectively, by a
wide range of
hardware, software, firmware in one or more machines or articles of
manufacture, or virtually
any combination thereof. Further, the use of "Start," "End," or "Stop" blocks
in the block
diagrams is not intended to indicate a limitation on the beginning or end of
any functions in
the diagram. Such flowcharts or diagrams may be incorporated into other
flowcharts or
diagrams where additional functions are performed before or after the
functions shown in the
diagrams of this application. In an embodiment, several portions of the
subject matter
described herein is implemented via Application Specific Integrated Circuits
(ASICs), Field
Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), digital signal processors (DSPs), or other
integrated
formats. However, some aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein, in whole
or in part,
can be equivalently implemented in integrated circuits, as one or more
computer programs
running on one or more computers (e.g., as one or more programs running on one
or more
computer systems), as one or more programs running on one or more processors
(e.g., as one
or more programs running on one or more microprocessors), as firmware, or as
virtually any
combination thereof, and that designing the circuitry or writing the code for
the software and
or firmware would be well within the skill of one of skill in the art in light
of this disclosure.
In addition, the mechanisms of the subject matter described herein are capable
of being
distributed as a program product in a variety of forms, and that an
illustrative embodiment of
the subject matter described herein applies regardless of the particular type
of signal-bearing
medium used to actually carry out the distribution. Non-limiting examples of a
signal-
bearing medium include the following: a recordable type medium such as
magnetic data
storage media, non-volatile memory drive "Solid state drive," any potable data
storage media,
a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD), a Digital Video Disk (DVD), a digital
tape, a
computer memory, etc.; and a transmission type medium such as a program
distribution via
remote download over any wired or wireless network.
While aspects of the present subject matter described herein have been shown
and
described, it will be apparent to the reader that, based upon the teachings
herein, changes and
modifications can be made without departing from the subject matter described
herein and its
broader aspects and, therefore, the appended claims are to encompass within
their scope all
such changes and modifications as are within the true spirit and scope of the
subject matter
described herein. In general, terms used herein, and especially in the
appended claims (e.g.,
bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open" terms (e.g.,
the term
"including" should be interpreted as "including but not limited to," the term
"having" should
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be interpreted as "having at least," the term "includes" should be interpreted
as "includes but
is not limited to," etc.). Further, if a specific number of an introduced
claim recitation is
intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the
absence of such
recitation no such intent is present.
For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may
contain
usage of the introductory phrases "at least one" and "one or more" to
introduce claim
recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply
that the
introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a" or "an"
limits any particular
claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only
one such
recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or
more" or "at
least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an" (e.g., "a" and/or "an"
should typically be
interpreted to mean "at least one" or "one or more"); the same holds true for
the use of
definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a
specific number of
an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, such recitation should
typically be
interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of
"two recitations,"
without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or
more recitations).
Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to "at least one
of A, B, and C,
etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense of the
convention (e.g., "a
system having at least one of A, B, and C" would include but not be limited to
systems that
have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C
together, and/or
A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances, where a convention analogous
to "at least one
of A, B, or C, etc." is used, in general such a construction is intended in
the sense of the
convention (e.g., "a system having at least one of A, B, or C" would include
but not be
limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A
and C together, B
and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). Typically, a disjunctive
word or phrase
presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims,
or drawings,
should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the
terms, either of
the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise. For example, the
phrase "A or B"
will be typically understood to include the possibilities of "A" or "B" or "A
and B."
With respect to the appended claims, the operations recited therein generally
may be
performed in any order. Also, although various operational flows are presented
in a
sequence(s), the various operations may be performed in orders other than
those that are
illustrated, or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate
orderings includes
overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory,
supplemental,
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simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates
otherwise.
Furthermore, terms like "responsive to," "related to," or other past-tense
adjectives are
generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates
otherwise.
While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other
aspects and
embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed
herein are
for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the
true scope and spirit
being indicated by the following claims.
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