WO2008005000A1 - Postural awareness apparatus - Google Patents
Postural awareness apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2008005000A1 WO2008005000A1 PCT/US2006/025587 US2006025587W WO2008005000A1 WO 2008005000 A1 WO2008005000 A1 WO 2008005000A1 US 2006025587 W US2006025587 W US 2006025587W WO 2008005000 A1 WO2008005000 A1 WO 2008005000A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- awareness apparatus
- switch
- opening
- postural awareness
- cap
- Prior art date
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Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/025—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the head or the neck
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4037—Exercise mats for personal use, with or without hand-grips or foot-grips, e.g. for Yoga or supine floor exercises
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4027—Specific exercise interfaces
- A63B21/4039—Specific exercise interfaces contoured to fit to specific body parts, e.g. back, knee or neck support
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
- A63B23/0205—Abdomen
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
- A63B23/0233—Muscles of the back, e.g. by an extension of the body against a resistance, reverse crunch
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B23/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body
- A63B23/02—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles)
- A63B23/0244—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for particular parts of the body for the abdomen, the spinal column or the torso muscles related to shoulders (e.g. chest muscles) with signalling or indicating means, e.g. of incorrect posture, for deep-breathing exercises
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/103—Detecting, measuring or recording devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61B—DIAGNOSIS; SURGERY; IDENTIFICATION
- A61B5/00—Measuring for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons
- A61B5/45—For evaluating or diagnosing the musculoskeletal system or teeth
- A61B5/4538—Evaluating a particular part of the muscoloskeletal system or a particular medical condition
- A61B5/4561—Evaluating static posture, e.g. undesirable back curvature
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/06—Indicating or scoring devices for games or players, or for other sports activities
- A63B71/0619—Displays, user interfaces and indicating devices, specially adapted for sport equipment, e.g. display mounted on treadmills
- A63B2071/0655—Tactile feedback
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2208/00—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player
- A63B2208/02—Characteristics or parameters related to the user or player posture
- A63B2208/0242—Lying down
- A63B2208/0252—Lying down supine
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/50—Force related parameters
- A63B2220/51—Force
- A63B2220/52—Weight, e.g. weight distribution
Definitions
- the present invention relates to devices for strengthening the spine, abdomen and posture on multiple planes, and for teaching a neutral spine.
- the disclosed apparatus includes a pad having a longitudinal axis, signal means for producing a signal, and detection means for detecting a weight (i.e., a compressive force) applied to the pad and activating the signal means when the weight exceeds a predetermined weight.
- the signal means include a plurality of vibrator units, a portion of the plurality of vibrator units being affixed to the pad at opposed locations on either side of the longitudinal axis. Further refinements of the postural awareness apparatus were disclosed in U.S. Patent No.
- an apparatus that includes a pad, a signal producing system, and an activator which responds to a compressive force and which activates the signal producing system when a compressive force applied to the apparatus exceeds a predetermined compressive force.
- the activator includes a switch having an upper portion, a compressible element having defined therein an opening, the compressible element at least partially surrounding the upper portion of the switch, and a cap adapted to secure the compressible element in a position at least partially surrounding the upper portion of the switch.
- the postural awareness apparatus further includes a low back assembly.
- the low back assembly can be releasably affixed to the pad, in particular embodiments, or permanently affixed to the pad in other particular embodiments.
- the low back assembly includes a base having defined therein at least one opening within which the switch is disposed, and a cushion having defined therein at least one opening aligned with the opening in the base.
- the base includes a raised portion in which the opening is defined, and the switch is disposed within the opening and extends through the base.
- the cap has an upper element and a plurality of arms, each of the arms having a distal end including a locking element.
- the switch and the compressible element have substantially collinear longitudinal axes.
- the compressible element is disposed between the base and the upper element of the cap.
- Each of the arms of the cap extends through an opening defined in the base, and the locking elements of the cap prevent unintentional disengagement of the cap from the base while permitting motion of the cap relative to the base substantially in the direction of the longitudinal axes of the switch and the compressible element.
- This permits the upper element of the cap to contact, and thus activate, the switch when a compressive force in excess of the predetermined value is applied to the upper element of the cap.
- This further permits the compressible element to be removed and replaced with another compressible element, for example, a compressible element having a different stiffness.
- inventive apparatus include a plurality of activators.
- the pad has a longitudinal axis and a portion of the plurality of activators are located at opposed locations on either side of the longitudinal axis.
- the signal producing system comprises a plurality of vibrator units. More particularly, a portion of the plurality of vibrator units are affixed to the pad (for example, by virtue of being incorporated into the low back assembly) at opposed locations on either side of the longitudinal axis.
- a postural awareness apparatus adapted to contact a portion of the lower back of a human user.
- the apparatus includes a base having defined therein at least one opening, a cushion having defined therein at least one opening aligned with the opening in the base, a signal producing system, and an activator that activates the signal producing system when a compressive force applied to the apparatus exceeds a predetermined compressive force.
- the activator includes a switch having an upper portion, the switch being disposed within the opening defined in the base; a compressible element having defined therein an opening, the compressible element at least partially surrounding the upper portion of the switch; and a cap adapted to secure the compressible element in a position at least partially surrounding the upper portion of the switch.
- the cap in particular embodiments, is removable to permit interchange of the compressible element.
- FIGS. 1a-b are top plan and exploded side views, respectively, of a first embodiment employing a detachable head rest and a lumbar pad, with vibrator units and pressure sensors disposed within the lumbar unit shown in phantom;
- FIGS.2a-c are top, side and end views of a detachable head rest employed with the embodiments of FIGS 1a-b;
- FIG. 3 is a sectional view of the lumbar pad of FIGS 1a-b showing the location of pressure sensors and vibrator units within the pad;
- FIGS.4a-c are top, sectional and side views of an alternative embodiment of a head rest with separate pressure sensors, vibrator units and a control switch;
- FIG. 5 is a side exploded view of an alternative embodiment including a kyphosis wedge
- FIGS. 6a-b are schematic diagrams showing a mechanical switch useful as a pressure sensor, showing activated and inactivated states;
- FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a pressure sensor with a light-generating signal producing system and an external power supply
- FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of an alternative embodiment in which two pressure sensors are employed in sequence, one in the head rest and one in the lumbar pad;
- FIG. 9 is a partially exploded left perspective view of another embodiment of the inventive apparatus including separable head/neck and low back assemblies;
- FIG. 10(a)-(b) are top plan views showing the positioning of the head/neck assembly relative to the low back assembly for short and tall users, respectively;
- FIG. 11-13 are, respectively, a right perspective, bottom plan and exploded view of the head/neck assembly of FIG. 9;
- FIG. 14 is a left perspective view of an embodiment of the low back assembly of FIG. 9;
- FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of the low back assembly of FIG 14;
- FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the low back assembly of FIG. 14 through a switch/force adjustment system including a switch and force adjusting ring;
- FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative embodiment of a switch/force adjustment system including a switch, a cap and a spring;
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the cap of FlG. 17;
- FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement of the spring and cap of FIG. 17 with respect to the base of the low back assembly
- FIG. 20 is a schematic of a control unit useful with embodiments of the inventive apparatus.
- FIG. 21 is a schematic illustrating use of a television screen to provide a visual signal to a user.
- FIG. 22 is a perspective view illustrating an alternative embodiment of a switch/force adjustment system in which a switch is secured within a bushing.
- neutral spine is meant a biomechanically correct spinal position in which muscular balance is maintained and the spine absorbs forces optimally and is neither in extreme flexion nor extreme extension.
- typical flexion/extension biases for a healthy user is about 30° and about 15°, respectively; other users may have greater or lesser flexion/extension biases.
- Neutral spine positions vary with the posture of the user; for example, the neutral spine position of a user with kyphosis will differ from the neutral spine position of a user having a normal posture.
- a first embodiment of an apparatus 10 of the invention includes a mat 12, preferably comprised of a non-slip material, with a lumbar pad 14 and a head support 16.
- Lumbar pad 14 preferably is unitary with mat 12, that is, is formed from a section of mat 12. Disposed within lumbar pad 14 are activator 18, which detects a weight applied to a surface 20 of lumbar pad 14 and subsequently activates signal producing system 22.
- the activator 18 can include elements such as one or more mechanical switches, one or more pressure sensors, or other devices known to those skilled in the art for detecting a weight applied to a surface.
- the activator 18 is connected to one or more signal producing systems 22.
- the signal producing system(s) 22 are activated when a compressive force (e.g., a weight) is applied to the selected activator 18, that is, when the activator responds to (i.e., detect) a weight applied to the surface 20 of mat 12.
- a compressive force e.g., a weight
- the signal producing system 22 produce a signal that is perceptible by a person using the inventive apparatus.
- activator 18 responds to a compressive force (e.g., weight) that is within a desired range.
- a compressive force e.g., weight
- the range of compressive forces to which activator 18 responds can be determined in any conventional manner (e.g., via electronic elements, software, mechanical switches or other devices, etc.)
- Exemplary signal producing systems 22 include, without limitation, devices for producing a vibratory signal, such as a mechanical vibrator; devices for producing an auditory signal, such as an electronic tone generator; devices for producing a visible signal, such as a light bulb or a light-emitting diode (LED); and the like, as well as combinations of such devices.
- the signal producing system 22 can be affixed to or within the apparatus 10, for example within lumbar pad 14, or can be located externally.
- the activator 18 and the signal producing system 22 are connected together, for example as parts of an electrical circuit, or by means such as low-power radio transmitters. Any devices, elements or apparatus for enabling activator 18 to activate signal producing system 22 are considered to be within the scope of the present invention.
- lumbar pad 14 can accommodate one or more lordosis inserts 14a disposed above activator 18 in order to support users having excessive lordotic sway or other excessive flexion or extension bias.
- Exemplary inserts include, without limitation, mechanical inserts, pneumatic or other inflatable inserts, and the like.
- Lumbar pad 14 can also optionally include a switch (not shown) for disabling signal producing system 22 to allow use of the apparatus without generation of a signal.
- Head support 16 includes a head/neck base 24 and a cervico-thoracic support 26.
- a neck support 28 which optionally is adjustable in width, is disposed on head support 16 between head/neck base 24 and cervico-thoracic support 26.
- head support 16 is detachably affixed to mat 12 by attachment device 30, for example hook/loop devices such as Velcro (R) fasteners, snaps, etc., in order to allow selectable positioning of the head support 16, and also to allow head support 16 to be used separately if desired.
- head support 16 can be permanently affixed to mat 12.
- head support 16 is provided with a plurality of handles 32.
- Handles 32 can be formed by cutting openings in base 24, for example, or can be separately formed and affixed to base 24.
- mat surface 20 can be provided with graphics 34, such as a stylized representation of a human pelvis and lower backbone, in order to facilitate orientation of a user with respect to the mat surface. Illustrations of the positions of TLC pressure points and the locations of the activator 18 are also beneficial to assist the user in properly orientation with respect to the apparatus 10.
- signal producing system 22 include two vibrators 36 disposed within lumbar pad 14 along either side of the longitudinal axis 38 of mat 12. Vibrators 36 are connected to activator 18 and are activated when activator 18 responds to a compressive force (e.g., the weight of a user's body) applied to the surface 20 of mat 12.
- a compressive force e.g., the weight of a user's body
- An example of an activator 18, illustrated in FIGS. 6a-b, includes a power source 40, which can be a battery disposed, for example, within lumbar support 14 or at another location within, on or external to apparatus 10, or A/C power supplied via a plug; a mechanical switch 42 energized by a spring having a preselected spring constant; and a pair of contacts 44, which with signal producing system 22, such as a vibrator, form a circuit.
- a weight for example the weight of a user's body (indicated by a downward arrow), exceeds the spring force and causes the mechanical switch 42 to close, closing the circuit and activating signal producing system 22.
- the circuit remains closed and the signal producing system 22 remains activated.
- the signal producing system includes a vibrator unit 46 (shown in FIGS. 6a- b)
- the user perceives a vibratory signal applied to his back; in the alternative, when the signal producing system 22 includes a tone generator, light bulb, or LED, the user hears and/or sees the signal generated by the signal producing system 22. In any event, the user is informed when his back is in contact with the activator 18 and exerts sufficient downward force to cause switch 42 to close.
- An alternative embodiment of activator 18 includes a pressure sensor and an associated electronic circuit in place of the mechanical switch. Such accompanying circuits are readily produced by those skilled in the art to generate an output signal in response to application of a predetermined pressure to the pressure sensor. This output signal in turn activates signal producing system 22.
- F'® ⁇ S iKfrPe s another embodiment of the inventive apparatus in which a pressure sensor 48 is employed rather than a mechanical switch.
- the signal producing system includes a light bulb 50. Power is supplied from an external A/C power supply via plug 52.
- a kyphosis wedge 54 is inserted between head support 16 and mat 12, to accommodate users with a head-forward position.
- FIGS. 4a-c illustrate an alternative embodiment of a head support 116 which includes activator 118 disposed within head/neck base 124, and one or more signal producing systems 122.
- the signal producing systems includes a plurality of vibrators disposed within neck support 128.
- Activator 118 activates the signal producing systems 122 (e.g., vibrators) when the user's head leaves contact with activator 118.
- the switch is in an open position when the user's head is in contact with it, rather than in a closed position as with activator 18 described above.
- activator 118 includes a pressure sensor
- the accompanying electronic circuit produces a signal when the pressure detected falls below a predetermined level, rather than exceeding a predetermined level.
- a 3-way switch 130 can be connected to activator 118 and the vibrators.
- the switch 130 allows the user to selectively enable or disable the activator 118 and to separately control activation of the vibrators.
- the activator 118 are enabled to activate the vibrators as described above with respect to activator 18 and signal producing system 22.
- the activator 118 are disabled, and the vibrators are deactivated.
- the activator is disabled, and the vibrators are activated, thus allowing selective user relaxation and the option to stretch while using the inventive apparatus in between exercise drills.
- the activator 118 in the foregoing embodiment of the head support 116 can be connected in series to the activator 18 disposed, for example, within lumbar support 14 as shown in FIG. 8.
- the signal producing system 22 and optionally vibrators disposed within head support 116) are activated only when both activator 118 and activator 18 are affected by a compressive force, such as the weight of a user's head and body, respectively.
- the signal (vibratory, auditory, visual, etc.) provided by the inventive apparatus allows the user to heighten the intensity of muscles being worked by eliminating momentum.
- the signal informs the user that his thoracolumbar area compresses the activator 18 sufficiently to ensure the isolation of the Qwmpi masciesHisage.
- the user's proprioceptive acuity is heightened for lumbo-sacral coordination and strengthening.
- the inventive apparatus preferably is used on a horizontal surface such as a floor or exercise bench.
- mat 12 can be provided with one or more attachment devices such as a hook or clamp, which allows the apparatus to be affixed to a vertical surface such as a door.
- the apparatus can also be used on surfaces such as chairs.
- the signal provided by the inventive apparatus constitutes feedback to the user while exercising, which permits the user to minimize momentum and maximize intensity.
- the user's third lumbar vertebra (L3) typically in the vicinity of the user's belt line or umbilicus
- L3 typically in the vicinity of the user's belt line or umbilicus
- the head/neck support 16 is positioned under the user's neck where it is comfortable. If necessary, the position of the head/neck support 16 is adjusted to accommodate the user.
- the low back is compressed into lumbar pad 14 until a signal is generated by the signal producing system 22. Constant tension is maintained isometrically by tightening the involved muscles
- the head/neck support 116 permits the user to avoid neck strain. If the user lifts his head during abdominal training, resulting in neck strain, the head lift is signaled to the user by the signal producing system 122, such as a vibration to the neck, an audible signal produced by a buzzer, or any other desired signal producing system. The user can then lower his head to contact the head/neck support 116.
- the signal producing system 122 such as a vibration to the neck, an audible signal produced by a buzzer, or any other desired signal producing system. The user can then lower his head to contact the head/neck support 116.
- Apparatus 200 includes a mat 202, a low back assembly 204 and a head/neck assembly 206. Both the low back assembly 204 and the head/neck assembly 206 can be releasably secured to mat 202, for example via Velcro (R) strips or other fasteners.
- low back assembly 204 is secured, either permanently or releasably, to a predetermined location on mat 202, and head/neck assembly 206 is releasably secured to mat 202 at a selectable distance from low back assembly 204.
- the apparatus can calibrated to accommodate users of varying stature, with the head/neck assembly 206 being moved closer to mid-pad 205 and thus secured to mat 202 closer to low back assembly 204 to accommodate short users (see Figure 10a), or farther from mid-pad 205 and low back assembly 204 to accommodate tall users (see Figure 10b).
- a H>aft ⁇ c!maf embodiment of head/neck assembly 206 useful with the foregoing embodiment 200 of the inventive apparatus (as well as the previously described embodiment 10) is illustrated in Figures 11-13.
- Head/neck assembly 206 includes neck roll 210 and head sensor pad 212 (covering head switch 234) mounted on neck board 214.
- Neck roll 210 and head sensor pad 212 are, in particular embodiments, formed from resilient materials such as polyurethane or other foam, or in the alternative include a resilient inner material and an outer layer formed from leather, fabric, vinyl or other suitable covering material.
- Neck vibrators 232 are secured beneath neck roll 210 by motor backups 240. Aligning elements 227 of neck roll 210 register within holes 226 defined in neck board 214.
- Handles 216 are defined along sides 214a-b of neckboard 214. Downward- opening concavities 218, which in particular embodiments such as here illustrated extend beyond the upper surface 214c of neck board 214, are formed in the lower surface 214d of neck board 214 and receive the user's fingers when the user grips handles 216. Upper back pad 220 is also secured to neck board 214. Upper back vibrators 242 are disposed within cavities 228 and sandwiched between neck board 214 and upper back pad 220.
- Securing device 222 for example a Velcro(R) strip, are affixed to lower surface 214d of neck board 214, and enable head/neck assembly 206 to be releasably affixed to main pad 202.
- a battery pack 221 secured to the neck board 214 by battery cover 238 and Velcro( R) strip 230, provides power to the upper back vibrators 242 and neck vibrators 232, and in additional particular embodiments to buzzer 224.
- a battery pack can be secured to or within low back assembly 204. If desired, multiple battery packs can be used.
- low back assembly 204 includes outer cushion 244, which can in particular embodiments be formed from a resilient material such as polyurethane or other foam material, or in the alternative include a resilient inner material and an outer layer formed from leather, fabric, vinyl or other suitable covering material, or a skinned foamed material such as a skinned polyurethane foam produced by an injection molding process.
- Outer cushion 244 is secured to shell 246 serving as a rigid support, either directly or via an additional intermediate cushioning layer 264 (see Figure 16).
- the upper surface of outer cushion 244 includes a plurality of positioning ridges 252, which provide increased sensitivity to the user and enable the user to more easily ppsjtioniMa- ioriheriSelf properly atop the low back assembly 204.
- Lower back vibrators 262 are disposed in cavities 263 between outer cushion 244 and shell 246.
- Vibrators 262 are activated by a switch/force adjustment system (described below).
- Vibrators 262 can be powered, in particular embodiments, by a battery pack or packs similar to those used in the head/neck assembly 206 described above.
- vibrators 262 can be powered from a wall socket, an automobile cigarette lighter plug, an external battery or battery pack, or any other desired external source via system power connection 256.
- switches 248 are disposed in switch mounts 258 which in particular embodiments are integral with shell 246, and which in alternative particular embodiments are separate elements that are secured to shell 246.
- a force adjustment ring 250 Surrounding and engaging the upper portion 249 of switch 248 is a force adjustment ring 250, which in turn registers within and protrudes upward from opening 260 defined in outer cushion 244.
- Force adjustment ring 250 is comprised, in particular embodiments, of a resilient material that is stiffer and less resilient than the materials) comprising cushion 244.
- stiffness of force adjusting ring 250 By varying the stiffness of force adjusting ring 250, the magnitude of the compressive force required to close switches 248 and thus activate vibrators 262 can be selectively controlled.
- a user can sequentially employ force adjusting rings 250 of gradually increasing stiffness, in order to gradually increase the compressive force that the user's back must exert on the switch/force adjustment systems in order to activate the vibrators 262.
- switches 248 and force adjusting rings 250 are employed in the low back assembly 204. In other particular embodiments, switches 248 and force adjusting rings 250 are also used in the head/neck assembly 206 in order to activate vibrators 232 and/or 242.
- FIG. 17-19 A second embodiment of a switch/force adjustment system according to the present invention is shown in Figures 17-19.
- upper portion 249 of switch 248 is surrounded by a compressible element 270, as illustrated a spring.
- Switch 248 and compressible element 270 each have longitudinal axes, and the respective axes are substantially collinear when compressible element 270 is disposed about switch 248.
- Cap 272 including upper element 274 and a plurality of arms 276 (two are illustrated in Figures 17-18) is disposed above compressible element 270 such that upper element 274 is in contact with the top • of compressible gtement 270 and together with arms 276 at least partially encloses compressible element 270.
- Distal ends 278 of arms 276 include locking elements 280 which engage switch mounts 258 via notches 282. Sufficient space is provided within switch mounts 258 to permit movement of arms 276 in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of switch 248.
- Cap 272 registers within and protrudes upward from opening 260 defined in outer cushion 244. Locking elements 280 of cap 272 prevent unintentional disengagement of cap 272, while permitting the cap to be removed (i.e., by squeezing arms 276 toward each other) in order to remove and/or replace compressible element 270.
- compressible element 270 determines the amount of compressive force needed to cause switch 248 to close and thereby activate vibrators 262.
- a user thus can sequentially employ compressible elements 270, such as springs, of gradually increasing stiffness, in order to gradually increase the compressive force that the user's back must exert on the switch/force adjustment systems in order to activate the vibrators 262.
- Vibrators 262 are activated by switches 248. In more particular embodiments using at least one pair of vibrators 262, each of the vibrators is separately and independently operable by the user. In other particular embodiments, the vibrators can be configured to work in tandem rather than independently.
- one or more of the vibrators 262 can also be activated manually by means of a control unit 290 (e.g., a hand set as shown in Figure 20) in communication with the vibrators 262 via cable 254.
- a control unit 290 e.g., a hand set as shown in Figure 20
- a particular embodiment of hand set 290 includes power switch 292 for providing power to the vibrators 262, activation switches 294a and 294b for independently activating neck vibrators 232 and low back vibrators 262, respectively, and paired indicators 296a and 296b, for example lighted marker bars, respectively in communication with switches 248 on the left and right side of low back assembly 204 (or alternatively, configured for tandem operation of paired vibrators).
- Hand set 290 enables the user to activate the neck and/or low back vibrators without first having to compress switches 248, thus allowing the inventive apparatus to be used as a relaxation and stretching device as well as an exercise device. Furthermore, when the inventive device is used for strengthening the user's lower back, indicators 296a-b visually alert the user when the user's lower back muscles exaitsuffidemt-Qoncipressive force to compress switches 248.
- the switch/force adjustment system incorporated in low back assembly 204 include one or more measurement elements that quantify the magnitude of the compressive force exerted by the user's lower back on the switch/force adjustment system.
- paired indicators 296a-b can include a display element that visually indicates the magnitude of the compressive force.
- Such embodiments assist the user in adjusting the compressive force exerted by each side of the user's lower back, in order to exert equal compressive force on each and thus optimize the strengthening exercises performed using the apparatus.
- the system can be configured for tandem operation in which the two sides of the user's back are not independently monitored.
- head/neck 206 and low back assembly 204 are used jointly, both being attached to mat 202.
- head/neck assembly 206 and low back assembly 204 can be used separately, either attached to mat 202 or by itself. More particularly, low back assembly 204 can be used as a separate device placed on a floor, an exercise apparatus, an automobile seat or other surface.
- a wireless transmitter 300 in communication with the switch/force adjustment system incorporated in low back assembly 204 transmits information defining the magnitude of the compressive force to a television screen 302 in a health club or other location. Television screen 302 then displays the information to the user.
- Figure 22 illustrates another alternative embodiment which provides additional support and protection for the switch 248.
- a bushing 310 is mounted within and secured to switch mount 258.
- Bushing 310 in particular embodiments, comprises a metal, metal alloy, ceramic or other hard material, more specifically a material having a hardness greater than the hardness of the material forming switch mount 258.
- a threaded opening 312 is defined axially through bushing 310, and engages corresponding threads 314 formed on an outer surface of switch 248.
- a pair of bushings 310 support switch 248, with a first bushing being secured to switch mount 258 and a second bushing being secured to shell 246 and coaxially with the fjitisjbbustjjmg andpjith switch 248.
- Embodiments making use of bushing(s) 310 afford additional support to switch 248, and also enable adjustment of the axial position of switch 248 as desired, particularly during manufacture of the assembly.
- a cushioning element 320 is provided between upper portion 249 of switch 248 and cap 272.
- Cushioning element 320 can comprise, for example, a foam material or another resilient material, and protects the switch 248 from excessive wear and other possible damage due to contact with cap 272.
- an additional activator 320 can be incorporated into the inventive device at a location corresponding to a user's lower sacrum.
- the additional activator 320 in very particular embodiments, activates one or more additional signal producing systems as described herein (e.g., vibratory, audio, visual, etc.). Such embodiments provide additional feedback to enable the user to maintain desired neutral spine positioning while exercising.
- Additional embodiments enable information transfer to any desired display element, for example, a computer monitor, a laptop computer, a PDA, and the like. Such information can be transferred via a cable connection, a wireless transmitter, or any other desired mode of transmission. The information so transferred can also be further processed and stored.
- Embodiments of the invention thus provide feedback for improving proprioceptive acuity and lumbo-sacral coordination.
- a progressive exercise routine designed specifically for the inventive apparatus will allow the user to start with the short (e.g., 4 minute) drill series and progress at his own pace. Precision postural positioning for strong "neutral spine" occurs when the user re-educates the neuro-muscular system using the inventive apparatus.
- the invention has been illustrated herein as a self-contained apparatus. However, the invention can also be incorporated into another object, including without limitation objects such as an exercise apparatus (e.g., an inclined rowing machine), an exercise bench, a chair, a bed, etc.
- an exercise apparatus e.g., an inclined rowing machine
- an exercise bench e.g., an exercise bench
- a chair e.g., a chair
- a bed e.g., a bed
- the invention can also be separately produced and subsequently affixed to another object.
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Orthopedic Medicine & Surgery (AREA)
- Pulmonology (AREA)
- Biomedical Technology (AREA)
- Neurology (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Biophysics (AREA)
- Otolaryngology (AREA)
- Percussion Or Vibration Massage (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
- Push-Button Switches (AREA)
- Switches With Compound Operations (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (8)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2006/025587 WO2008005000A1 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
MX2009000218A MX2009000218A (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus. |
AU2006345722A AU2006345722B2 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
JP2009518076A JP5204102B2 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Position recognition device |
CN200680055666.0A CN101600401B (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
CA2656407A CA2656407C (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
EP06785969.4A EP2037832A4 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
US12/345,338 US10383548B2 (en) | 1998-02-13 | 2008-12-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2006/025587 WO2008005000A1 (en) | 2006-06-29 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/712,581 Continuation-In-Part US7258653B2 (en) | 1998-02-13 | 2003-11-12 | Postural awareness apparatus |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US12/345,338 Continuation US10383548B2 (en) | 1998-02-13 | 2008-12-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
WO2008005000A1 true WO2008005000A1 (en) | 2008-01-10 |
Family
ID=38894858
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2006/025587 WO2008005000A1 (en) | 1998-02-13 | 2006-06-29 | Postural awareness apparatus |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2037832A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP5204102B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN101600401B (en) |
AU (1) | AU2006345722B2 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2656407C (en) |
MX (1) | MX2009000218A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2008005000A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
ITRM20120444A1 (en) * | 2012-09-17 | 2014-03-18 | Carla Bertone | BENCH FOR ABDOMINAL ENHANCEMENT WITH ERGONOMIC PROTECTION OF THE LUMBAR PATH |
IT201900013494A1 (en) * | 2019-07-31 | 2021-01-31 | Barbara Bon | DEVICE TO CORRECT A USER'S POSTURE |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
JP4805398B1 (en) * | 2010-07-06 | 2011-11-02 | 株式会社エヌシィシィ | Stretch mat |
CN102614020B (en) * | 2012-03-02 | 2013-12-18 | 桐庐福克医疗仪器有限公司 | Electric diagnostic treatment chair |
US10010749B2 (en) * | 2012-08-17 | 2018-07-03 | Carolyn Anne Richardson | Thoracic stabilizer |
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2006
- 2006-06-29 MX MX2009000218A patent/MX2009000218A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2006-06-29 AU AU2006345722A patent/AU2006345722B2/en active Active
- 2006-06-29 CA CA2656407A patent/CA2656407C/en active Active
- 2006-06-29 EP EP06785969.4A patent/EP2037832A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2006-06-29 CN CN200680055666.0A patent/CN101600401B/en active Active
- 2006-06-29 WO PCT/US2006/025587 patent/WO2008005000A1/en active Search and Examination
- 2006-06-29 JP JP2009518076A patent/JP5204102B2/en active Active
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ITRM20120444A1 (en) * | 2012-09-17 | 2014-03-18 | Carla Bertone | BENCH FOR ABDOMINAL ENHANCEMENT WITH ERGONOMIC PROTECTION OF THE LUMBAR PATH |
IT201900013494A1 (en) * | 2019-07-31 | 2021-01-31 | Barbara Bon | DEVICE TO CORRECT A USER'S POSTURE |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP2037832A1 (en) | 2009-03-25 |
MX2009000218A (en) | 2009-05-25 |
CA2656407A1 (en) | 2008-01-10 |
JP2009542316A (en) | 2009-12-03 |
CN101600401B (en) | 2014-06-25 |
AU2006345722A1 (en) | 2008-01-10 |
AU2006345722B2 (en) | 2013-05-16 |
CA2656407C (en) | 2016-05-31 |
CN101600401A (en) | 2009-12-09 |
JP5204102B2 (en) | 2013-06-05 |
EP2037832A4 (en) | 2015-01-14 |
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