U.S. patent application number 10/943880 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-01 for apparatus for use in exercising.
Invention is credited to Wilcocks, Rodney Edward.
Application Number | 20050192168 10/943880 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34891417 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050192168 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wilcocks, Rodney Edward |
September 1, 2005 |
Apparatus for use in exercising
Abstract
Apparatus for use in exercising, including means for engaging
the foot of one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein the means
for engaging is adapted to retard movement of the foot as the foots
moves from a first position towards a second position.
Inventors: |
Wilcocks, Rodney Edward;
(Lindisfarne, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SUGHRUE MION, PLLC
2100 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE, N.W.
SUITE 800
WASHINGTON
DC
20037
US
|
Family ID: |
34891417 |
Appl. No.: |
10/943880 |
Filed: |
September 20, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10943880 |
Sep 20, 2004 |
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10482808 |
Jan 5, 2004 |
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10482808 |
Jan 5, 2004 |
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PCT/AU02/00895 |
Jul 5, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/124 ;
482/121 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0552 20130101;
A63B 2208/0228 20130101; A63B 21/4011 20151001; A61H 2209/00
20130101; A63B 21/0442 20130101; A63B 23/08 20130101; A63B 21/0004
20130101; A63B 21/00069 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/124 ;
482/121 |
International
Class: |
A63H 033/26; A63B
021/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 5, 2001 |
AU |
PR 6143/01 |
Mar 5, 2002 |
AU |
PS 0912/02 |
May 1, 2002 |
AU |
PS 2063/02 |
Sep 19, 2003 |
AU |
2003905115 |
Oct 2, 2003 |
AU |
2003905972 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. Apparatus for use in exercising, including: (a) means for
retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a user of the
apparatus as the foot moves from a first position towards a second
position; and (b) means for limiting movement of the means for
retarding with respect to said foot, wherein the means for
retarding is couplable to the foot and the knee of said leg.
2. The apparatus claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for
retarding is arrangable to underly engage the foot of the user of
the apparatus and overly engage the knee.
3. The apparatus claimed in claim 1, wherein said means for
retarding is an endless loop, the loop being at least partially
elastically deformable.
4. The apparatus claimed in claim 2, wherein the means for limiting
substantially prevents movement of the portion of the loop that is
arrangable to underly engage the foot.
5. The apparatus claimed in claim 4, wherein the means for limiting
is arrangable to receive and at least partially extend around a
lower portion of the leg of the user.
6. The apparatus claimed in claim 2, wherein the means for limiting
is a strap coupled between first and second sections of the
loop.
7. The apparatus claimed in claim 6, wherein the strap includes
first and second straps coupled between the first and second
sections of the loop, the straps being positionable for mutual
engagement around a lower portion of the leg of the user.
8. The apparatus claimed in claim 7, wherein the first and second
straps include -corresponding hook and loop velcro portions
positionable for mutual engagement.
9. The apparatus claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for limiting
is at least partially-elastically deformable.
10. The apparatus claimed in claim 1, wherein the means for
limiting is adjustable so as to change the size of the means for
retarding.
11. The apparatus claimed in claim 3, wherein the peripheral length
of the loop is adjustable so as to change the size of the loop.
12. The apparatus claimed in claim 11, wherein the peripheral
length of the loop corresponds to the degree to retarding effected
by the means for retarding.
13. The apparatus claimed in claim 3, including means being
arrangable to underly engage the knee for substantially preventing
movement of a portion of the apparatus with respect to said
knee.
14. The apparatus claimed in claims 3, wherein the portion of the
means for retarding that is arrangable to overly engage the knee
includes a surface that at least partially reduces the ease with
which said portion moves with respect to the knee during use of the
apparatus.
15. The apparatus claimed in claim 13, wherein the means being
arrangable to underly engage the knee includes a surface that at
least partially reduces the ease with which said means moves with
respect to the knee during use of the apparatus.
16. Apparatus for use in exercising, including: (a) means for
retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a user of the
apparatus as the foot moves from a first position towards a second
position, the means for retarding being couplable to the foot and
the knee of said leg, and (b) means being positionable under said
knee, said means substantially preventing movement of a portion of
the apparatus with respect to said knee.
17. The apparatus claimed in claim 16, wherein the means for
retarding is arrangable to underly engage the foot of the user of
the apparatus and overly engage the knee.
18. The apparatus claimed in claim 17, wherein said means for
retarding is an endless loop, the loop being at least partially
elastically deformable.
19. The apparatus claimed in claim 17, wherein the portion of the
means for retarding that is arrangable to overly engage the knee
includes a surface that at least partially reduces the ease with
which said portion moves with respect to the knee during use of the
apparatus.
20. The apparatus claimed in claim 16, wherein the means being
positionable under said knee includes a surface that at least
partially reduces the ease with which said means moves with respect
to the knee during use of the apparatus,
21. A method for effecting a muscle pump action in a leg of a
person, including the steps of: (a) fitting the apparatus claimed
in any one claims 3 to 15 to said leg; (b) alternately pivoting the
foot of said leg about the ankle joint between first and second
positions, wherein the step of fitting includes the steps of
arranging a first section of the loop to underly engage the foot,
stretching the loop so that a second section of the loop overly
engages an upper portion of the leg, and arranging the means for
retarding around a lower portion of the leg.
22. A method for effecting a muscle pump action in a leg of a
person, including the steps of: (a) fitting the apparatus claimed
in claim 16 to said leg; (b) alternately pivoting the foot of said
leg about the ankle joint between first and second positions,
wherein the step of fitting includes the steps of arranging a first
section of the loop to underly engage the foot, and stretching the
loop so that a second section of the loop overly engages an upper
portion of the leg.
23. A method of inhibiting the development of deep vein thrombosis
by performing the method steps of claim 21.
24. A method of mitigating the development of thrombosis inducing
conditions by administering to a subject the apparatus claimed in
claim 1.
25. A method of promoting blood circulation in the body of a
subject by administering to the subject an apparatus claimed in
claim 1.
26. A method of promoting blood circulation in the body of a person
by performing the method steps of claim 21.
27. A method for prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis including the
step of administering to a subject the apparatus claimed in claim
1.
28. Use of the apparatus claimed in claim 1 in the prophylaxis of
deep vein thrombosis.
29. A method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
by performing the method steps of claim 21.
30. A method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
including the step of administering to a subject the apparatus
claimed in claim 1.
31. Use of the apparatus claimed in claim 1 to alleviate the
symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
32. A method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
by administering to the person an apparatus including means for
engaging the foot of one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein
the means for engaging is adapted to retard movement of the foot as
the foot moves from a first position towards a second position.
33. Use of an apparatus to alleviate the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome, the apparatus including means for engaging the foot of
one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein the means for engaging
is adapted to retard movement of the foot as the foot moves from a
first position towards a second position.
34. A method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
in a person during a period of rest, including the step of said
person exercising before said period of rest using an apparatus
including: (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg
of a user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position; and (b) means for limiting movement of
the means for retarding with respect to said foot, wherein the
means for retarding is couplable to the foot and the knee of said
leg.
35. The method claimed in claim 34, wherein the means for retarding
is arrangable to underly engage the foot of the user of the
apparatus and overly engage the knee.
36. The method claimed in claim 34, wherein said means for
retarding is an endless loop, the loop being at least partially
elastically deformable.
37. The method claimed in claim 35, wherein the means for limiting
substantially prevents movement of the portion of the loop that is
arrangable to underly engage the foot.
38. The method claimed in claim 37, wherein the means for limiting
is arrangable to receive and at least partially extend around a
lower portion of the leg of the user.
39. The method claimed in claim 35, wherein the means for limiting
is a strap coupled between first and second sections of the
loop.
40. The method claimed in claim 39, wherein the strap includes
first and second straps coupled between the first and second
sections of the loop, the straps being positionable for mutual
engagement around a lower portion of the leg of the user.
41. The method claimed in claim 40, wherein the first and second
straps include corresponding hook and loop velcro portions
positionable for mutual engagement.
42. The method claimed in claim 3, wherein the means for limiting
is at least partially elastically deformable.
43. The method claimed in claims 3, wherein the means for limiting
is adjustable so as to change the size of the means for
retarding.
44. The method claimed in claim 36, wherein the peripheral length
of the loop is adjustable so as to change the size of the loop.
45. The method claimed in claim 44, wherein the peripheral length
of the loop corresponds to the degree to retarding effected by the
means for retarding.
46. The method claimed in claim 36, including means being
arrangable to underly engage the knee for substantially preventing
movement of a portion of the apparatus with respect to said
knee.
47. The method claimed in claim 36, wherein the portion of the
means for retarding that is arrangable to overly engage the knee
includes a surface that at least partially reduces the ease with
which said portion moves with respect to the knee during use of the
apparatus.
48. The method claimed in claim 46, wherein the means being
arrangable to underly engage the knee includes a surface that at
least partially reduces the ease with which said means moves with
respect to the knee during use of the apparatus.
49. A method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
in a person during a period of rest, including the step of said
person exercising before said period of rest using an apparatus
including: (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg
of a user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position, the means for retarding being couplable
to the foot and the knee of said leg, and (b) means being
positionable under said knee, said means substantially preventing
movement of a portion of the apparatus with respect to said
knee.
50. The method claimed in claim 49, wherein the means for retarding
is arrangable to underly engage the foot of the user of the
apparatus and overly engage the knee.
51. The method claimed in claim 50, wherein said means for
retarding is an endless loop, the loop being at least partially
elastically deformable.
52. The method claimed in claim 50, wherein the portion of the
means for retarding that is arrangable to overly engage the knee
includes a surface that at least partially reduces the ease with
which said portion moves with respect to the knee during use of the
apparatus.
53. The method claimed in claim 49, wherein the means being
positionable under said knee includes a surface that at least
partially reduces the ease with which said means moves with respect
to the knee during use of the apparatus.
54. A method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
in a person, including the step of administering to the person,
before a period of rest, an apparatus including means for engaging
the foot of one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein the means
for engaging is adapted to retard movement of the foot as the foot
moves from a first position towards a second position.
55. A method of alleviating the symptoms restless legs syndrome in
a person during a period of rest, including the step of the person
exercising, before said period of rest, using an apparatus
including means for engaging the foot of one leg of a user of the
apparatus, wherein the means for engaging is adapted to retard
movement of the foot as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position.
56. A method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
in a person during a period of rest, by administering to the
person, before a period of rest, the apparatus substantially as
hereinbefore described with reference to the FIGS. 17 to 26
accompanying drawings.
57. A method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs syndrome
by administering to the person the apparatus substantially as
hereinbefore described with reference to the FIGS. 17 to 26 of the
accompanying drawings.
58. Use of the apparatus substantially as hereinbefore described
with reference to FIGS. 17 to 26 to alleviate the symptoms of
restless legs syndrome.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to apparatus for use in
exercising.
[0002] Oxygenated blood is pumped under pressure from the heart to
all parts of a human body along arteries and returns to the heart
for re-oxygenation along veins. Blood may also be returned to the
heart by muscle pump action. For example, when the calf muscle of a
person's leg is flexed and the surrounding veins are thereby
constricted, blood will be forced away from the area of
constriction. Valves present in the veins ensure that all blood
flowing from the area of constriction flows towards the heart.
[0003] Muscle pump action in a person's legs is generally reduced
when they are in an upright seated position for extended periods. A
person's capacity to return blood to the heart may therefore be
reduced under such conditions. Further, blood has a tendency to
pool in the lower regions of the body as a result of gravity.
[0004] In general, blood has a tendency to clot when it slows or
stops. The mentioned pooling of blood in the lower regions of the
body, together with the reduced muscle pump action, creates an
environment that is conducive to clotting. If a blood clot, also
known as a thrombosis, forms in the described manner and dislodges
from a lower region of the body, it will travel along the person's
veins back towards the heart. A dislodged thrombosis, known as an
embolus, will then enter the right hand side of the heart and will
be pumped from the heart to the lungs via the pulmonary artery for
re-oxygenation. The diameter of the veins on which the embolus
travels, as it moves towards the heart from the lower regions of
the body, increases as the embolus approaches the heart.
[0005] The pulmonary artery receives blood from the right hand side
of the heart and feeds it into the lungs via numerous blood
vessels. The diameter of each of these blood vessels is
substantially less than the diameter of the pulmonary artery and as
a result the embolus may stop or slow as it attempts to flow into
one or more of these blood vessels. An embolus that stops or slows
in the pulmonary artery effectively blocks or slows the rate at
which these blood vessels take blood from the pulmonary artery to
the lungs. Such an embolus is known as a pulmonary embolism.
[0006] A pulmonary embolism reduces the amount of blood flowing
into the lungs and, as such, the amount of blood returning to the
heart from the lungs. Further, the pulmonary artery has a reduced
capacity to distribute blood to the lungs and the right hand side
of the heart continues to pump blood into the pulmonary artery. The
result is a build up of blood stemming back from the pulmonary
artery and into the heart.
[0007] Generally, a pulmonary embolism subjects a heart to stress
and in some cases this stress can cause heart failure.
[0008] Individuals tend to remain in upright stationary positions
for extended periods when travelling in vehicles for long
distances, for example, or while seated at the theatre or watching
television. When travelling on an aeroplane, for example, a
passenger may remain in a seated position for several hours with
little to no movement of the legs. Space on board aeroplanes is
generally very limited and there is little capacity and/or
opportunity to exercise the leg muscles. Such individuals are
therefore at risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.
[0009] The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
(NINDS) describes restless legs syndrome (RLS) as a neurological
disorder characterised by unpleasant sensations in the legs and an
uncontrollable urge to move when at rest in an effort to relieve
these feelings. Symptoms of RLS are typically described as burning,
creeping, tugging sensations. The sensations may range in severity
from uncomfortable to irritating to painful.
[0010] A characteristic of RLS is that lying down or relaxing tends
to activate the mentioned symptoms. As such, people with RLS may
have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Left untreated,
RLS may cause exhaustion and daytime fatigue.
[0011] According to NINDS, excessive exercise tends to aggravate
the symptoms of RLS. However, NINDS has found that a program of
regular moderate exercise helps to alleviate the symptoms of
RLS.
[0012] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided
Apparatus for use in exercising, including:
[0013] (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a
user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position; and
[0014] (b) means for limiting movement of the means for retarding
with respect to said foot,
[0015] wherein the means for retarding is couplable to the foot and
the knee of said leg.
[0016] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method for effecting a muscle pump action in a leg of a
person, including the steps of:
[0017] (a) fitting the above-described apparatus to said leg;
[0018] (b) alternately pivoting the foot of said leg about the
ankle joint between first and second positions,
[0019] wherein the step of fitting includes the steps of arranging
a first section of the loop to underly engage the foot, stretching
the loop so that a second section of the loop overly engages an
upper portion of the leg, and arranging the means for retarding
around a lower portion of the leg.
[0020] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided apparatus for use in exercising, including:
[0021] (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a
user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position, the means for retarding being couplable
to the foot and the knee of said leg, and
[0022] (b) means being positionable under said knee, said means
substantially preventing movement of a portion of the apparatus
with respect to said knee.
[0023] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method for effecting a muscle pump action in a leg of a
person, including the steps of:
[0024] (a) fitting the above-described apparatus to said leg;
[0025] (b) alternately pivoting the foot of said leg about the
ankle joint between first and second positions,
[0026] wherein the step of fitting includes the steps of arranging
a first section of the loop to underly engage the foot, and
stretching the loop so that a second section of the loop overly
engages an upper portion of the leg.
[0027] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of inhibiting the development of deep vein
thrombosis by performing the above-described method for effecting a
muscle pump action.
[0028] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of mitigating the development of thrombosis
inducing conditions by administering to a subject the
above-described apparatus.
[0029] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of promoting blood circulation in the body of a
subject by administering to the subject the above-described
apparatus.
[0030] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of promoting blood circulation in the body of a
person by performing the above-described method for effecting a
muscle pump action.
[0031] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method for prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis including
the step of administering to a subject the above-described
apparatus.
[0032] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided use of the above-described apparatus in the prophylaxis of
deep vein thrombosis.
[0033] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome by performing the above-described method for effecting a
muscle pump action.
[0034] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome including the step of administering to a subject the
above-described apparatus.
[0035] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided use of the above described apparatus to alleviate the
symptoms of restless legs syndrome.
[0036] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided a method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome by administering to the person an apparatus including
means for engaging the foot of one leg of a user of the apparatus,
wherein the means for engaging is adapted to retard movement of the
foot as the foot moves from a first position towards a second
position.
[0037] In accordance with the present invention, there is also
provided use of an apparatus to alleviate the symptoms of restless
legs syndrome, the apparatus including means for engaging the foot
of one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein the means for
engaging is adapted to retard movement of the foot as the foot
moves from a first position towards a second position.
[0038] Preferably, the apparatus is light-weight and portable.
[0039] Preferably, the apparatus is collapseable for insertion into
a travel bag or a coat pocket.
[0040] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome in a person during a period of rest, including the step of
said person exercising before said period of rest using an
apparatus including:
[0041] (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a
user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position; and
[0042] (b) means for limiting movement of the means for retarding
with respect to said foot, wherein the means for retarding is
couplable to the foot and the knee of said leg.
[0043] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method of alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome in a person during a period of rest, including the step of
said person exercising before said period of rest using an
apparatus including:
[0044] (a) means for retarding movement of the foot of one leg of a
user of the apparatus as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position, the means for retarding being couplable
to the foot and the knee of said leg, and
[0045] (b) means being positionable under said knee, said means
substantially preventing movement of a portion of the apparatus
with respect to said knee.
[0046] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method for alleviating the symptoms of restless legs
syndrome in a person, including the step of administering to the
person, before a period of rest, an apparatus including means for
engaging the foot of one leg of a user of the apparatus, wherein
the means for engaging is adapted to retard movement of the foot as
the foot moves from a first position towards a second position.
[0047] In accordance with another aspect of the invention, there is
provided a method of alleviating the symptoms restless legs
syndrome in a person during a period of rest, including the step of
the person exercising, before said period of rest, using an
apparatus including means for engaging the foot of one leg of a
user of the apparatus, wherein the means for engaging is adapted to
retard movement of the foot as the foot moves from a first position
towards a second position.
[0048] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be
described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to
the accompanying drawings in which:
[0049] FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;
[0050] FIG. 2 is a side view of the apparatus shown in FIG. 1,
arranged in one condition of use;
[0051] FIG. 3 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
1, arranged in another condition of use;
[0052] FIG. 4 is a side view of an apparatus in accordance with
another preferred embodiment of the invention, arranged in one
condition of use;
[0053] FIG. 5 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
4, showing the apparatus in a different condition occurring in
use;
[0054] FIG. 6 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 4 and
5;
[0055] FIG. 7 is a side view of an apparatus in accordance with a
further preferred embodiment of the invention, arranged in one
condition of use;
[0056] FIG. 8 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in FIG.
7, showing the apparatus in a different condition occurring in
use;
[0057] FIG. 9 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 7 and
8;
[0058] FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus in
accordance with yet another preferred embodiment of the invention
arranged in one condition;
[0059] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus of
FIG. 10 arranged in a different condition.
[0060] FIG. 12 is a side view of the apparatus of FIG. 10, arranged
in one condition of use;
[0061] FIG. 13 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in
FIG. 10, showing the apparatus in a different condition occurring
in use;
[0062] FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention in one
condition of use;
[0063] FIG. 15 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus
shown in FIG. 14, arranged in another condition of use;
[0064] FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus shown
in FIGS. 14 and 15;
[0065] FIG. 17 is a side view of an apparatus in accordance with a
preferred embodiment the invention, arranged in one condition for
use;
[0066] FIG. 18 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in
FIG. 17, but showing the apparatus in a different condition
occurring in use;
[0067] FIG. 19 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 17
and 18;
[0068] FIG. 20 is a side view of another apparatus in accordance
with a preferred embodiment of the invention, arranged in one
condition for use;
[0069] FIG. 21 is a further side view of the apparatus shown in
FIG. 20, showing the apparatus in a different condition occurring
in use;
[0070] FIG. 22 is a front view of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 20
and 21;
[0071] FIG. 23 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus in
accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, arranged
in one condition;
[0072] FIG. 24 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus of
FIG. 23, showing the apparatus arranged in a different
condition;
[0073] FIG. 25 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus of
FIGS. 23 and 24 arranged in one condition of use; and
[0074] FIG. 26 is a diagrammatic illustration of the apparatus of
FIGS. 23, 24 and 25 arranged in a further condition of use.
[0075] A person may use the apparatus 10, shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and
3, to effect a muscle pump action in one of their legs. The
apparatus 10 is suitable for use in a seated position where the
user is in an upright position and their leg is bent.
Alternatively, the apparatus 10 may be used by a person laying down
in bed, where at least one leg of the person is bent so that the
knee is raised with respect to the hips. In use, the apparatus 10
retards movement of the foot as the foot pivots about a respective
ankle joint and moves from a first position towards a second
position. The apparatus thereby effects a muscle pump action in the
user's leg.
[0076] The apparatus 10 includes an elastically deformable endless
loop 12, a handle 14 and a strap 16. While preferred embodiments of
the invention are described with reference to an endless loop 12,
the loop 12 may be any suitable shape such as a hoop, ring,
rectangle, triangle or figure eight.
[0077] The loop 12 is elastically deformable so as to stretch
around a knee 18 and a corresponding foot 20 of a leg 22 of a user
24 of the apparatus 10. In use, a first section 26 of the loop 12
underly engages the foot 20 and a second section 28 overly engages
the knee 18 and is held in tension therebetween.
[0078] The second section 28 of the loop 12 has a non-slip surface,
not shown; The non-slip surface increases the coefficient of
friction between the knee 18 and the second section 28 of the loop
12 and thereby diminishes the case with which the knee 18 and the
second section 28 of the loop 12 slide against each other. The
non-slip surface may be a rubber strip, for example.
[0079] The handle 14 is a rectangular strip of flexible material
coupled to the second section 28 of the loop 12. In one example of
the invention, the handle is an inelastic woven synthetic polymer.
The handle 14 is arranged so that, in use, it may be grasped by a
user 24 to control movement of the second section 28 of the loop 12
with respect to the knee 18. In one example of the invention, the
two shortest sides 30,32 of the rectangular handle 14 are sewn to
corresponding first and second end portions 34,36 of the second
section 28 of the loop 12. Alternatively, the handle 14 may be
secured to the second section 28 of the loop 12 by a vulcanisation
process, or by any other any suitable means.
[0080] The strap 16 is an elongate strip of material that is
coupled to the first section 26 of the loop 12. First and second
ends 38,40 of the strap 16 are sewn to corresponding first and
second end portions 42,44 of the first section 26 of the loop 12.
In one embodiment of the invention, the strap 16 elastically
deformable and is arranged so that, in use, it can stretch from the
first end portion 42, around the heel 46 of the user 24 to the
second end portion 44. The strap 16 is thereby held in tension and
prevents the first section 26 of the loop 12 from slipping away
from the heel 46. In use, the strap 16 prevents the first section
26 of the loop 12 from slipping off the foot 20.
[0081] The strap 16 may include first and second strips of elongate
inelastic material, not shown, each having first and second end
portions. The strips may be made of a woven synthetic polymer. The
first end portions of the strips are secured to corresponding end
portions 42,44 of the first section 26 of the loop 12. The second
end portions of the strips are positionable around the heel 46 of
the user 24 and are couplable to each other to secure the strip in
that position.
[0082] In one embodiment, the first and second strips of the strap
16 include corresponding hook and loop velcro pieces. The user 24
fits the strap 16 by wrapping the first and second strips around
his/her heel 46 so that the hook and loop velcro pieces overlap and
interlock. The user 24 controls the length of the strap 16 by
controlling the amount of overlap of the hook and loop velcro
pieces. By adjusting the length of the strap 16, the user 24 can
control the amount of tension in the strap 16. The amount of
tension in the strap 16 ultimately controls the degree to which the
first section 26 of the loop 12 can move away from the heel 46 of
the foot 20
[0083] Alternatively, the first and second strips of the strap 16
respectively include male and female portions of a snap-lock clip,
not shown, where the male portion is adapted to receive, and secure
therein, the female portion. The strap 16 is fitted to the user 24
by arranging the first and second strips around the user's heel 46
and then engaging the male and female portions. The length of the
strips may be adjustable to alter the length of the strap 16 in
order to best fit the user 24. The user 24 adjusts the length of
the strap 16 to control the tension in the strap 16.
[0084] The user 24 may operate the apparatus 10 in a seated
position where his/her leg 22 is bent. The user 24 first fits the
apparatus 10 to the leg 22 by positioning the ball 48 of the foot
20 over the first section 26 of the loop 12. The user 24 then
stretches the loop 12 so that the second section 28 of the loop 12
is positioned over an upper portion of their knee 18. The loop 12
is thereby held in tension between the upper portion of the knee 18
and the foot 20. The user 24 then arranges the strap 16 around the
heel 46 of the foot 20 so that it is held in tension between first
and second end portions 42,44 of the first section 26 of the loop
12. The user 24 the grasps the handle 14 in either one or two
hands, not shown, and is ready to commence exercising.
[0085] The user 24, with his or her foot 20 in a first position 50,
moves the foot 20 towards a second position 52 by pivoting the foot
20 about the ankle. In doing so, the ball 48 of the foot 20 extends
away from the knee 18 and the loop 12 bears against the foot 20.
The loop 12 thereby retards movement of the foot 20 as the foot 20
moves from the first position 50 towards the second position 52.
The apparatus 10, when used in the described manner, increases the
work required by the relevant muscle groups of the user's leg 22 to
move the foot 20 from the first position 50 towards the second
position 52.
[0086] At some point during the described movement, the user 24
momentarily stops moving the foot 20 towards the second position 52
and moves the foot 20 back towards the first position 50 by
pivoting their foot 20 about the ankle joint. As this action is
executed by the user 24, the loop 12 bears against the user's foot
20 and forces the foot 20 back towards the first position 50.
[0087] Alternately moving the foot 20 between the first and second
positions 50,52 in the described manner, effects a muscle pump
action.
[0088] The user's foot 20 is generally in the first position 50
when the heel 46 is in contact with the ground, or floor surface,
and the ball 48 of the foot 20 is elevated from the ground. The
user's foot 20 is generally in the second position 52 when the heel
46 is in contact with the ground and the ball 48 of the foot 20 is
also in contact with the ground.
[0089] In alternative embodiments, the loop 12 is formed in
sections. In further embodiments, the loop 12 is formed in
sections, where the sections include elastically deformable
material and inelastic material.
[0090] In one embodiment, the apparatus 10 includes a plate 54 and
a belt 56 secured to the first and second sections 26,28 of the
loop 12 respectively, as shown in FIGS. 4, 5 and 6.
[0091] The plate 54 is secured to and disposed between first and
second end portions 42,42 of the first section 26 of the loop 12.
The plate 54 may be secured in position by any suitable means. The
plate 54 is arranged to underly engage the foot 20 of the leg 22 of
the user 24 of the apparatus 10. The plate 54 is formed of rigid
material and provides a firm surface for the foot 20 to engage
during use of the apparatus 10. In alternative embodiments of the
invention, the plate 54 may be a coarse surface for the foot 20 to
engage and thereby retard movement of the foot 20 with respect to
the first section 26 of the loop 12.
[0092] The belt 56 is secured to and disposed between the first and
second end portions 34,36 of the second section 28 of the loop 12.
In use, the user 24 secures the loop 12 around their foot 20 and
knee 18 and then arranges the belt 56 around their waist 58 or hips
60. The belt 56 is used to prevent the second section 28 of the
loop 12 from moving with respect to the knee 18.
[0093] The belt 56 may be permanently attached to the loop 12 and,
in this embodiment, the belt 56 includes an adjustable snap-lock
clip, not shown. The adjustable snap-lock clip has first and second
parts, where the first part is adapted to receive the second part
and secure the second part therein. The belt 56 is fitted to the
user 24 of the apparatus 10 by arranging the belt 56 around the
user's waist 58 and coupling together the first and second parts of
the snap-lock clip. The adjustable snap-lock clip can also be used
to alter the length of the belt 56 in order to best fit the user
24.
[0094] The loop 12 may be disconnectable so as to be fined around
the user's foot 20 and knee 18 by engaging the male and female
parts of a snap-lock clip disposed at respective ends of the
disconnected loop 12. The male portion of the snap lock clip is
adapted to receive, and secure therein, the female portion.
Alternatively, the snap lock clip may be a buckle or any other
suitable means for coupling together the ends of the endless loop
12.
[0095] The loop 12 may also be adjustable so as to change the
peripheral length of the loop 12. In one embodiment, male part of
the snap lock clip coupled to the loop 12 is slidably positionable
along the extent of the loop 12 to thereby change the peripheral
length of the loop 12 when the loop 12 is closed. The degree of
muscle pump action that is effected in the leg 22 of the user 24
will vary according to the tension of the loop 12. The user thereby
controls the degree of muscle pump action by controlling the
peripheral length of the loop 12. In alternative embodiments, the
peripheral length of the loop 12 is adjustable by use of any
suitable means.
[0096] In yet another embodiment, the elastically deformable loop
12 includes two parallel sides, being generally parallel to the
user's leg 22, formed from an inelastic material. In this example
of the invention, at least one of the first and second sections
26,28 of the loop 12 is formed of an elastic material.
[0097] In yet another embodiment, the apparatus 10 also includes a
foot piece 62 as shown in FIGS. 7, 8 and 9. The foot piece 62 is
secured to the first section 26 of the loop 12 and is arranged to
receive a front portion of the foot 20 of the user 24. A sole 64
portion of the foot piece 62 is secured to the loop 12 by a
suitable adhesive. Alternatively, the foot piece 62 may be sewn to
the loop 12 or secured to the loop 12 by any suitable means. In
use, the foot piece 62 prevents movement of the foot 20 with
respect to the first section 26 of the loop 26.
[0098] Alternatively, an upper potion of the foot piece 62 may be
secured to an outer peripheral portion of the first section 26 of
the loop 12.
[0099] In yet another embodiment, the apparatus 10 includes first
and second strips 68,70. First ends 72,74 of the strips 68,70 are
secured to corresponding first and second end portions 42,44 of the
first section 26 of the loop 12. In use, the first section 26 of
the loop 12 underly engages the user's foot 20 and the strips 68,70
are arranged to overly engage the user's foot 20 and to couple to
one another to secure the user's foot 20 in position.
[0100] The strips 68,70 include corresponding hook and loop velcro
pieces 76,78, so that a user may position their foot 20 over the
first section 26 of the loop 12 and secure their foot 20 in that
position by overlapping the hook and loop velcro pieces 76,78 over
their foot 20. The hook and loop pieces 76,78 interlock over the
foot 20 to substantially prevent movement of the foot 20 with
respect to the first section 26 of the loop 12.
[0101] Alternatively, the strips 68,70 are also formed of an
elastically deformable material. The strips 68,70 are designed to
stretch over a user's foot 20 to thereby secure the foot 20 between
the first section 26 of the loop 12 and the second strap 66.
[0102] In yet another embodiment, the strips 68,70 include an
adjustable snap-lock clip, not shown. The adjustable snap-lock clip
has first and second parts, where the first part is adapted to
receive the second part and secure the second part therein. The
strips 68,70 may be fitted over the user's foot 20 and coupled
together by engaging the first and second parts of the snap-lock
clip. The adjustable snap-lock clip can also be used to alter the
length of the strips 68,70 in order to best fit the user's
foot.
[0103] The apparatus 10 may also include a knee strap 60, as shown
in FIGS. 14 to 16. The knee strap 60 is a rectangular strip of an
inelastic woven synthetic polymer. Opposed short ends 62,62 of the
knee strap 60 are sewn to respective sections of the endless loop
12 so that, in use, the first section 26 of the endless loop 12
underly engages the foot 20; the second section 28 of the endless
loop 12 overly engages the knee 18 and the knee strap 60 underly
engages the same knee 18. In the event that the first section 26 of
the endless loop 12 disengages the foot 20 during use, the knee
strap 60 prevents the second section 28 of the endless loop 12 from
moving towards and hitting the torso of the user 24. Additionally,
the knee strap 60 prevents the second section 28 of the endless
loop 12 from slipping off the knee and moving towards the foot 20
of the user 24.
[0104] The short ends 62,64 of the knee strap 60 are
above-described as being sewn to respective sections of the endless
loop 12. However, the short ends 62,64 of the knee strap 60 may be
secured to the respective sections of the endless loop 12 by any
suitable means.
[0105] The knee strap 60 is described as being a strip of an
inelastic woven synthetic polymer. However, the knee strap 60 may
be elastic and, in use, bear against the leg 22 of the user 24. The
knee strap 60 may be made of any suitable material.
[0106] The knee strap 60 may have a non-slip surface, not shown.
The non-slip surface increases the coefficient of friction between
the knee 18 and the knee strap 60 thereby diminishes the case with
which the knee 18 and the knee strap 60 slide against each other.
The non-slip surface may be a rubber strip, for example.
[0107] The person 24 can use the apparatus 10 to exercise their leg
22 while they are in a seated position. Alternatively, the person
can use the apparatus 10 to exercise their leg 22 while they are
laying down. When in such a position the knee 18 of the leg 22
being exercised is raised with respect to the hips 60 of the user
24.
[0108] Use of the apparatus 10 effects a muscle pump action in the
leg 22 of the user 24 and thereby increases blood circulation. The
user 24 of the apparatus 10 can thereby prevent blood from pooling
in their legs.
[0109] The apparatus 110 shown in FIG. 17, FIG. 18 and FIG. 19
includes an elastically deformable endless loop 112 and a belt 114.
The endless loop 112 includes a plate 118 secured to a first
portion 120 of the endless loop 112. The plate 118 is arranged to
underly engage a foot 122 of one leg 130 of a user 116 of the
apparatus.
[0110] The belt 114 is attached to second and third portions 124,
126 of the endless loop 112 by velcro hook and loop contacts.
Alternatively, the belt 114 may be secured to the endless loop 112
by any suitable means. The belt is used to secure an upper portion
of the apparatus to the user 16.
[0111] A user 116 may operate the apparatus 110 from a seated
position. In this case, the user 116 fits the apparatus 110 to
his/her leg 130 before commencing exercising. To fit the apparatus
110, the user positions the plate 118 under his or her foot 22 and
stretches the elastically deformable loop 112 over a thigh portion
128 of the same leg 30. The belt 114 is secured around the user's
waist 132 and prevents second and third portions 124, 126 of the
endless loop 112 from slipping down the user's thigh 128.
[0112] The user 116, being in a seated position with his/her foot
122 in a first position 134, moves his/her foot 122 towards a
second position 136 by pivoting the foot 122 about the ankle joint
138. As this action is executed by the user 116, the loop 112 bears
against the user's foot 122 and thereby retards the movement of the
foot 122. Accordingly, the amount of work required to move the foot
122 from the first position 134 towards the second position 136 is
increased. This movement effects a muscle pump action in the leg
130.
[0113] At some point during the described movement of the foot 122
towards the second position 136, the user stops moving the foot 122
and begins to move the foot 122 back towards the first position
134. As this action is executed by the user 116, the elastically
deformable endless loop 112 bears against the user's foot 122 and
thereby assist in moving the foot 122 back towards the first
position 134.
[0114] The user's foot 122 is in the first position 134 when the
heel 140 of the foot 22 is in contact with the ground, or floor
surface, and the ball 142 of the foot 122 is elevated from the
ground. The user's foot 122 is in the second position 136 when the
heel 140 of the user's foot is in contact with the ground and the
ball 142 of the user's foot 122 is also in contact with the
ground,
[0115] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the foot 122 is
in the first position when the heel 140 is closer to the ground or
floor surface than the ball 142 and the user's foot 122 is in the
second position when the ball 142 of the user's foot 122 approaches
the ground or floor surface.
[0116] Repeating the above-described actions using the apparatus
110 for an extended period increases the muscle pump action
activity in the leg 130 being exercised.
[0117] In one example of the invention, the belt 114 is permanently
attached to the endless loop 112 and the belt 114 includes an
adjustable "snap lock" clip. The adjustable "snap lock" clip has
first and second parts, where the first part is adapted to receive
the second part and secure the second part therein. The belt 114 is
fitted to the user 116 of the apparatus 110 by arranging the belt
114 around the user's waist 132 and engaging the first and second
parts of the "snap lock" clip. The adjustable "snap "lock" clip can
also be used to alter the length of the belt 14 in order to best
fit the user 116.
[0118] In a further example of the invention, the endless loop 112
includes a "snap lock" clip that is used to fit the endless loop
112 around the users foot 122 and thigh 128 by engaging the male
and female parts of the "snap lock" clip. In this example of the
invention, the "snap lock" clip is also used to alter the length of
the endless loop 112 in order to best fit the user 116.
[0119] Accordingly, the length of the endless loop 112 as presented
between the foot 122 and thigh 128 of a user 116 can be varied.
[0120] In yet another example of the invention, the elastically
deformable endless loop 112 includes two parallel sides, being
generally parallel to the user's leg 130, formed from an inelastic
material. In this example of the invention, corresponding adjacent
ends of the two parallel sides are bridged by elastic material,
adapted to engage the foot 122 and the thigh 128 of one leg 130 of
the user 116.
[0121] In yet another example of the invention, the elastically
deform able endless loop 112 includes two parallel sides, being
generally parallel to the user's leg 130, formed from an inelastic
material. In this example of the invention, one of the adjacent
ends of the two parallel sides is ridged by elastic material
adapted to engage the user's foot and another one the adjacent ends
of the parallel sides, is bridged by an inelastic material adapted
to engage the user's thigh 28.
[0122] An apparatus 150 shown in FIGS. 20, 21 and 22 includes an
elastically deformable endless loop 152, a handle 154 and a foot
piece 156. The handle 154 is sewn to a first section 157 of the
endless loop 152 and is arranged so that, in use, a user 158 may
grasp the handle 154 and thereby control movement of the first
section 157 with respect to a corresponding leg of the user 158.
Alternatively, the handle 154 may be secured to the endless loop
152 by a vulcanisation process or by any other any suitable
means.
[0123] The foot piece 156 is secured to a second section of the
endless loop 152 and is arranged to receive a front portion of a
foot 160 of the user 158. The second section of the endless loop
152 opposes the above-mentioned first section when the endless loop
152 is in use. A sole portion of the foot piece 156 is secured to
the endless loop 152 by a suitable adhesive. Alternatively, the
foot piece 156 may be secured to the endless loop 152 by any
suitable means. In use, the foot piece 156 substantially prevents
movement of the foot 160 with respect to the second section of the
endless loop 152.
[0124] A user 158 may operate the apparatus 150 from a seated
position. In this case, the user 158 first fits the apparatus to a
leg 162 of their body before commencing exercising. To fit the
apparatus 150, the user 158 inserts his/her foot 160 into the foot
piece 156 and stretches the first section of the endless loop 152
over a thigh portion 166 of the corresponding leg 162. The user 158
grasps the handle 154 in either one or two hands and is ready to
commence exercising.
[0125] The user 158, with his/her foot 160 in a first position 168,
moves the foot 160 towards a second position 170 by pivoting the
foot 60 about the ankle joint 172. In doing so, the foot 160
extends away from a shin 174 portion of the leg 162. As this action
is executed, the endless loop 152 bears against the user's foot 160
and thereby retards the movement of the foot 160. The endless loop
152, when used in the described manner, increases the work required
by the relevant muscle groups of the user's leg 162 to move the
foot 160 from the first position 168 towards the second position
170.
[0126] At some point during the described movement, the user 158
stops moving the foot 160 and moves the foot 160 back towards the
first position 168. As this action is executed by the user 158, the
endless loop 152 bears against the user's foot 160, via the foot
piece 156, and forces the foot 160 back towards the first position
168.
[0127] Alternately moving the foot 160 between the first and second
positions 168, 170 effects a muscle pump action in the relevant
muscle groups of the user's leg 162.
[0128] An upper potion of the foot piece 156 may be secured to an
outer peripheral portion of the second section of the endless loop
152, the foot piece 156 being secured thereto by an adhesive.
Alternatively, the foot piece 56 may be secured to the endless loop
52 using any suitable means.
[0129] The foot piece 156 may be coupleable to the endless loop 152
by a connection device. (not shown) In this case, the sole of the
foot piece includes a first part of the connection device that is
connectable to a corresponding second part secured to the second
section of the endless loop 152. In use, the user 58 fits the foot
piece 156 on a respective foot 160 and connects the foot piece to
endless loop 152 by connecting the first and second parts of the
connection device. Alternatively, any suitable method of
temporarily securing the foot piece 156 to the endless loop 152 may
be used.
[0130] In one example of the invention, the foot piece 156 is
coupleable to the second section of the endless loop 152 and the
foot piece 156 is a shoe.
[0131] An apparatus 180 shown in FIGS. 23, 24, 25 and 26 includes
an elastically deformable endless loop 182, a handle 184 and a
strap 186. The handle 184 is sewn to a first section 187 of the
loop 182 and is arranged so that, in use, a user 188 may grasp the
handle 184 and thereby control movement of the first section 87 of
the loop 182 with respect to a corresponding leg of the user 188.
Alternatively, the handle 184 may be secured to the endless loop 82
by a vulcanisation process or by any other any suitable means.
[0132] The strap 186 includes first and second strips 190,192, each
having an end secured to a second section 193 of the loop 182. The
strips 190,192 are arrangable so as to overlay and thereby secure
the foot 194 of the user between the endless loop 182 and the strap
186.
[0133] In one embodiment the strips 190,192 include corresponding
hook and loop velcro pieces 196,198, so that a user 188 may
position his/her foot 194 inside the loop 182 and secure the foot
194 in that position by overlapping the hook and loop velcro pieces
196,198. The hook and loop pieces 196,198 interlock over the foot
194 to substantially prevent movement of the foot 194 with respect
to the second section. 193 of the loop 182.
[0134] In further embodiments, the strips 190,192 are formed of an
elastically deformable material. The strips 190,192 are designed to
stretch over a user's foot 194 to thereby secure the foot 194
between the endless loop and the strap 186. The strips 190,192 may
include hook and loop velcro pieces 196,198, so that a user may
position the foot 194 inside the loop 182 and secure the foot in
that position by overlapping the hook and loop velcro pieces
196,198. In use, the elastically deformable strips 190,192
substantially prevents movement of the foot 194 with respect to the
second section 193 of the loop 182 and the elastically deformable
strips 190,192 permits the strap 186 to be arranged over the user's
footwear.
[0135] A user 188 may operate the apparatus 180 from a seated
position. In this case, the user 188 first fits the apparatus by
inserting his/her foot 194 between the endless loop 182 and the
strap 186 and secures the foot 194 in that position by arranging
the strap 186 securely over the foot 194. The user 188 then
stretches the first section 187 of the endless loop 182 over a
thigh portion 200 of the same leg 196. The user 188 grasps the
handle 184 in either one or two hands and is ready to commence
exercising.
[0136] The user 188, with their foot 194 in a first position 202,
moves their foot 194 towards a second position 204 by pivoting
their foot 194 about the ankle joint 206. In doing so, the foot 194
extends away from a shin portion 208 of the leg 199. As this action
is executed, the loop 182 bears against the user's foot 194 and
thereby retards the movement of the foot 194. The loop 182, when
used in the described manner, increases the work required by the
relevant muscle groups of the leg 199 to move the foot 194 from the
first position 202 towards the second position 204.
[0137] At some point during the described movement, the user 188
momentarily stops moving the foot 194 towards the second position
204 and moves the foot 194 back towards the first position 202 by
pivoting their foot 194 about the ankle joint 206. As this action
is executed by the user 188, the endless loop 182 bears against the
user's foot 194 and forces the foot 194 back towards the first
position 202.
[0138] Alternately moving the foot 194 between the first and second
positions 202,204, as described, effects a muscle pump action in
the relevant muscle groups of the leg 199.
[0139] Embodiments of the invention have been described by way of
reference to a user in a seated position. However, the embodiments
of the invention may be applicable to a user in any suitable
exercise position.
[0140] In alternative embodiments of the invention, the endless
loop 12,112,152,182 is formed in sections. In further embodiments
of the invention, the endless loop 12,112,152,182 is formed in
sections, where the sections include elastically deformable
material and inelastic material.
[0141] A sufferer of restless legs syndrome (RLS) can use the
apparatus 10,110,150,180 to exercise their legs before a period of
rest, or relaxation, to alleviate symptoms of RLS during the period
of rest. The sufferer may use the apparatus 10,110,150,180 in a
seated position or in a laying down position. A sufferer of RLS may
use the apparatus 10,110,150,180 to moderately exercise his or her
legs before they go to sleep to thereby prevent the onset of the
symptoms of RLS while they are attempting to fall asleep.
[0142] Advantageously, the apparatus 10,110,150,180 is portable and
can be collapsed into a form that can be carried as hand luggage on
aeroplane, for example.
[0143] Advantageously, the apparatus 10,110,150,180 is suitable for
use in a seated position on trains and aeroplanes, for example.
[0144] Advantageously, the apparatus 10,110,150,180 is suitable for
use while laying down in a bed.
[0145] Advantageously, the apparatus 10,110,150,180 is relatively
cheap and easy to manufacture.
[0146] Advantageously, the apparatus 10,110,150,180 is used to
mitigate thrombosis inducing conditions and therefore avoid
illnesses such as deep vein thrombosis.
* * * * *