U.S. patent application number 11/351486 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-09 for system and method of balance training.
This patent application is currently assigned to SportKat, LLC. Invention is credited to Timothy E. Luberski, Lee A. Samango.
Application Number | 20070184953 11/351486 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38334750 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070184953 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Luberski; Timothy E. ; et
al. |
August 9, 2007 |
System and method of balance training
Abstract
A system and method for use in moderating symptoms associated
with vestibular disorders. The user stands atop a balance platform
and balances or performs other exercises on the platform. The
exercises require the user to work against the instability of the
platform. Training difficulty may be increased or decreased by
changing the pressure of the platform. Over time, the repeated
performance of the exercise sessions improves the impairment the
user is experiencing due to the symptoms of the vestibular
disorder.
Inventors: |
Luberski; Timothy E.; (San
Diego, CA) ; Samango; Lee A.; (San Diego,
CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Crockett & Crockett
Suite 400
24012 Calle De La Plata
Laguna Hills
CA
92653
US
|
Assignee: |
SportKat, LLC
|
Family ID: |
38334750 |
Appl. No.: |
11/351486 |
Filed: |
February 9, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/146 ;
482/142 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 26/003 20130101;
A63B 22/18 20130101; A63B 2220/51 20130101; A63B 2220/16 20130101;
A63B 2022/0033 20130101; A63B 2071/0641 20130101; A63B 21/008
20130101; A63B 2071/0638 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/146 ;
482/142 |
International
Class: |
A63B 26/00 20060101
A63B026/00; A63B 22/16 20060101 A63B022/16 |
Claims
1. (canceled)
2. A system for performing multiple sessions of balance training
exercises and recording and presenting data relative to the
exercises to an operator, said system comprising: a monitor adapted
for visual display of images to the user; a balance platform
capable of sustaining the user's body weight and adapted for the
user to stand atop the platform while engaging in the exercise
sessions, the balance platform comprising a platform plate; a
platform disc adapted for a user to balance on top of and
positioned on top of the platform plate; and air springs positioned
beneath the platform plate and adapted to vary the stability of the
balance platform; a tilt sensor operably connected to the balance
platform and capable of measuring the angles of tilt and position
over time of the balance platform while the user is engaging in the
exercise sessions; and a control system comprising a central
processing unit (CPU), a random access memory (RAM), a serial port
and a user interface operable to communicate between the balance
platform and the serial wherein the control system is coupled to
the monitor and operable to receive input from the user regarding
desired modes and manners and operable to receive and record the
readings from the tilt sensor and programmed to generate a first
visual display on the monitor, the first visual display being
determined by the readings from the tilt sensor and wherein the
first visual display prompts the user to manipulate the platform to
drive a graphical element on the display in response to prompts or
graphical elements displayed on the monitor that corresponds to the
user's movement.
3. (canceled)
4. The system of claim 2 wherein the first visual display
corresponds to calibration of the system and prompts the user to
tilt all the way in one direction.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the control system generates a
second visual display on the monitor wherein the second visual
display prompts the user to manipulate the platform to drive a
graphical element on the display in response to prompts or
graphical elements displayed on the monitor.
6. The system of claim 5 wherein the control system generates a
third visual display on the monitor wherein the third visual
display corresponds to selection of a mode consisting of testing,
maze or review by the user.
7. The system of claim 6 wherein the control system generates a
fourth visual display on the monitor wherein the fourth visual
display corresponds to selection of either a static or dynamic
manner.
8. The system of claim 7 wherein selection of a static submode
requires a user to maintain his body position on the balance
platform such that a graphical element is centered on the display
monitor.
9. The system of claim 7 wherein selection of a dynamic submode
requires a user to manipulate the platform to drive the graphical
element to trace a pattern that appears on the monitor.
10. The system of claim 7 wherein selection of a dynamic submode
requires a user to manipulate the platform to drive the graphical
element to move through a maze that appears on the monitor.
11. The system of claim 7 wherein selection of a dynamic submode
requires a user to manipulate the platform to drive the graphical
element to move a square icon throughout a maze that appears on the
monitor.
12. The system of claim 6 wherein the control system generates a
fifth visual display on the monitor wherein the fifth visual
display corresponds to review of exercise session data.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein the user may select an existing
user data record.
14. The system of claim 12 wherein the user may select enter a new
user data record.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTIONS
[0001] The inventions described below relate the field of
improvement of balance function.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS
[0002] Balance training systems have been around for several years.
For example, the apparatus disclosed in Mason et al., Kinesthetic
Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Device, U.S. Pat. No. 5,112,045
describes a kinesthetic diagnostic and rehabilitation device. These
devices have been utilized for measuring the extent of kinesthetic
impairment resulting from a bodily injury or illness such as
endolymphatic hydrops, vestibular neuronitis, migraines, trauma,
toxic agents, infectious agents and motion sickness in addition to
multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, cerebellar degeneration,
and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). No device has specifically
addressed improving balance function in a broader range of
subjects. Conventional systems use a rigid platform positioned on
top of an unstable support. The user engages in exercises that
require the user to maintain a fixed position on the platform as a
function of instability of the unstable support. Over time, these
exercises result in the user's kinesthetic improvement. The entire
disclosure of the '045 patent is herein incorporated by
reference.
[0003] Degradation in balance function has traditionally been
treated with drugs or non-specific exercises. We propose improving
balance function with balance training systems in order to maximize
stability and mobility and improve the quality of life.
[0004] When the use of a balance training system is combined with
dynamic visual acuity testing, the device and method of use result
in an effective and comprehensive balance-training optimization
device. Currently the market does not have any devices designed for
balance training that combine a postural stability challenge with a
dynamic visual task in one integrated system. Therefore, there is a
need to combine an unstable platform with a dynamic visual task as
an effective balance training tool.
SUMMARY
[0005] The method and device described below can employ the use of
an inflatable device as described in Mason et al., Kinesthetic
Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Device, U.S. Pat. No. 5,112,045, and
similar devices in conjunction with a balance platform, a bladder,
a monitor and a control system for moderation of symptoms
associated with vestibular disorders. An individual desiring to
improve balance function engages in a regimen using the balance
training device. The individual stands atop the platform and
balances or performs other exercises for a number of predetermined
sessions. The system directs the user to manipulate the platform
with his body movement to cause corresponding manipulation of a
cursor element on the monitor display. The user manipulates the
cursor to trace shape patterns, move through mazes, perform sports
related tasks, or maneuver through a virtual environment presented
on a monitor that the user views, using the balance platform as a
joystick. The complexity of the patterns, mazes, or sports related
tasks through the virtual environment may be increased or decreased
over a course of treatment comprising multiple sessions spread over
several weeks. The treatment is effective to improve balance
function.
[0006] The method and device described below can also employ the
use of a balance platform that is supported by air springs or
hydraulics. The balance platform is used in conjunction with a
monitor and control system.
[0007] The method may also include a user worn head tracker and a
video projector or screen. The rate tracker is to be worn on the
head by the user while engaging in an exercise regimen to sense
horizontal or vertical head acceleration, velocity, or position.
The rate tracker may sense the head acceleration, velocity or
position by several different methods, including measuring user eye
movement. The digital projector or screen works in conjunction with
the rate tracker to project images on the screen according to the
head movement of the user (a dynamic visual acuity task). A letter
or some visual display will be viewed on the screen in response to
the users' head motion. The user can select the head motion speed
and head direction that will generate the letter or visual display
to be viewable by the user. By combining the tasks, this allows for
more efficient balance training because the user can vary either
the postural stability, element or dynamic visual acuity or both at
the same time.
[0008] The exercises require the user to work against the
instability of the balance platform. Training difficultly may be
increased or decreased by changing the pressure of the balance
platform. Increased pressure makes the platform firm and therefore
easier to balance upon. Decreased pressure makes the platform less
firm and therefore more difficult to balance upon. Over time, the
repeated performance of the exercises improves balance
function.
[0009] When used to improve balance function, many treatment
sessions, spread out over several weeks to months are useful. A
full training session consists of 20 to 30 minutes on the
device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates the balance training system used by the
user.
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a view of the monitor display prompting a
user to select an activity;
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a view of the monitor display of a static
training mode session;
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a view of the monitor display of a
certain maze pattern;
[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates a view of the monitor display of an
easier maze pattern;
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a view of the monitor display of a
horizontal maze pattern;
[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates a view of the monitor display of a
vertical maze pattern;
[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates a view of the monitor display of a
diagonal maze pattern;
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates a view of the monitor display of the
graph mode;
[0019] FIG. 10 illustrates a view of the balance training system
that incorporates the dynamic visual acuity features;
[0020] FIG. 11 illustrates another configuration of the balance
training system; and
[0021] FIG. 12 illustrates a hydraulic system for use with the
system of FIG. 11.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTIONS
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates the balance training system 10. The
balance training system 10 can comprise an inflatable bladder 12, a
balance platform 14 comprising a platform disk 13 a bladder, a
monitor 16, a control system 18, and a tilt sensor 19. The balance
platform 14 rests atop of the inflatable bladder 12. The balance
platform 14 is sized and dimensioned to accommodate an adult user
standing on the top of the platform. The system may also have a
pivot 17 located under the platform 14 to assist the bladder in
providing varying degrees of stabilizing support beneath the
platform 14. This assists the user in maintaining his position on
the platform 14 surface.
[0023] The balance training system can contain a bladder 12
positioned beneath the centrally pivoted platform disc 13 that
provides variable stability to the balance platform 14. The
pressure in the bladder 12 can be adjusted according to training
criteria or user preference. The pressure range in which the
bladder is operable is between about 0 and 15 psi, preferably
between 0 and 6 psi. The bladder has a valve 21 which is operable
to change the pressure of air in the bladder. The valve provides
for either inflating the bladder by adding air to it or deflating
the bladder by withdrawing air from it. The training difficulty may
be increased or decreased by adjusting the pressure in the bladder.
Increased pressure makes the bladder firm, making the platform
easier to balance on. This firm setting may be introduced in the
early training sessions to allow the user to get used to the
balance system. As the user improves and gains experience, the
pressure in the bladder may be decreased to soften the bladder,
making it more difficult to balance upon. The decreased pressure
results in users' improvement in neurosensory or balance function,
increases user strength, develops dynamic balance, muscle control,
and results in proprioceptive and vestibular improvement. A
pressure adjustment means is provided, such as a pump or compressor
23. The pressure adjustment means is in fluid communication with
the bladder via line 25. The pressure adjustment means can be
adjusted by the user prior to beginning any exercise session. A
pressure transducer 26 is also used to communicate pressure
variations from the bladder 12 to the control system 18 via line
27.
[0024] The balance training system also contains a tilt sensor 19
for sensing the attitude of the platform. The tilt sensor is
positioned on the top of the platform 14. The tilt sensor can be
any sensing means such as an inclinometer, an accelerometer, an
array of encoders dispersed around the platform, a gravitational
sensor, or any other suitable means for sensing the attitude of the
platform. The tilt sensor 19 is in electrical communication with
the control system 18 via line 28. The tilt sensor measures the
attitude of the platform and sends a corresponding signal to the
control system 18. This data is analyzed to produce a record of the
user's movements for creating a user specific record. The tilt
sensor can also contain stops (mounted under the balance platform)
that are preprogrammed to ensure accurate height settings and
movement. The tilt sensor will identify when the user has over
rotated or can also lock the platform before the user steps on or
off the platform.
[0025] The control system 18 of the system is operable to process
all of the data it acquires in a manner which provides meaningful
feedback information to the treating user. The control system
receives input from the tilt sensor and interprets the input as
indicating the attitude of the user's position on the balance
platform. The control system also receives input from the user
regarding the desired modes, manners and other settings for use of
the balance training system.
[0026] The control system can be installed and operated on Windows
98, Windows 2000, Windows XP Home Edition, Windows XP Professional
Edition, Linux and other comparable operating systems. The control
system relies on a serial port for communicating between the
balance platform and the user interface. The serial port is the
dedicated channel to gather information from the balance platform
to calculate testing and training results. For each Windows or
other operating system, a minimal requirement is placed on the
Central Processing Unit (CPU). No designated minimum CPU
requirement is specified for the control system other than to
conform or surpass the minimal operating system that it is
installed on. Likewise, the Random Access Memory (RAM) requirement
is to conform to or surpass the minimal requirement set by the
operating system and so it the hard drive storage capacity
requirement. There is no specific requirement for the floppy drive,
CD-RW drive and the DVD-RW drive. Additionally, a standard Windows
or Windows compatible QWERTY keyboard is required. Additional
hardware such as parallel ports, Ethernet, USB ports, serial ports,
PCI slots, VGA out connectors and digital input/output lines can
also be used.
[0027] The monitor of the system works in conjunction with the
control system to display input received from the control system.
The data regarding the attitude is sent to the monitor, which
generates images or displays of the attitude on the monitor for the
user to view. The monitor is also operable to work in conjunction
with the control system to generate the images or displays for the
user to view while engaging in an exercise session using the
balance control system. According to the modes, manners and
settings the user has input into the control system, predetermined
images are displayed onto the monitor. These images instruct the
user how to manipulate the balance platform with his legs, shifting
his weight as necessary to affect motion of the graphic element or
image on the display.
[0028] Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, in a currently preferred
configuration, the monitor requires a minimum screen real estate of
800.times.600 pixels in dimension. The minimal requirement must
support 16 bit color quality with 800.times.600 screen resolution.
The monitor is designed to support users via both touch screen mode
and/or mouse driven mode. Depending on the users' choice of
monitor, the touch screen feature may or may not be supported. If
the monitor selected does not support the touch screen feature, the
navigation of the user interface can be accomplished through the
aid of a mouse. The mouse utilized must be a standard 2 buttons
Window or Windows compatible mouse.
[0029] FIG. 11 illustrates an alternative configuration of the
balance training system having a balance platform, a monitor 16 and
a control system for use in conjunction with hydraulics or air
springs 22 to control the stability of the balance platform. The
hydraulics or air springs 22 are used in place of the inflatable
bladder 12 to provide varying degrees of stabilizing support
beneath the platform. A pump 29 can be used to maintain a static
pressure in the air springs or hydraulics as selected by the user
and will be under software control. This system contains hydraulics
or air springs positioned beneath a platform plate 15. The balance
platform plate has tilt sensors and load cells 24 positioned
beneath it. The tilt sensors and load cells are positioned on top
of the platform plate. The combination of the balance platform, the
hydraulics or air springs and the platform plate form the entire
balance platform on which a use balances. In addition to the tilt
sensors for sensing the attitude of the platform, the load cells
can sense the weight of the user. The platform disc 13 rests atop
of the tilt sensors and nests into a recess in the platform plate.
The entire balance platform 14 is supported by a base 20 intended
to offer user stability.
[0030] FIG. 12 illustrates a hydraulic system 30 for use with the
system of FIG. 11. The hydraulics serve to provide the control
system some measure of control over the motion of the platform.
These controls are to be in both the X and Y axis, the range of
tilt motion and the rate of motion. The hydraulics contain the
following components: custom RAM type hydraulic cylinder 31, a
normally closed spool valve 32, a check valve 33, a bubble trap and
fill point 34, a proportional control valve 35, a custom manifold
36 (which incorporates the normally closed spool valve, the check
valve, the bubble trap and fill point and the proportional control
valve), a flexible hydraulic hose 37 and control electrics 38
(which controls the items of the custom manifold). The normally
closed spool valve 32 is closed when de-energized and blocks the
flow of fluid. When energized, the valve opens allowing fluid to
flow freely. The check valve 33 can be spring loaded closed
therefore blocking the flow in a forward direction. A small amount
of pressure in the reverse direction can overcome the spring and
allow fluid to pass. The proportional control valve 35 is closed
when de-energized, blocking flow in both directions. When current
is applied to the valve, it begins to open letting some fluid pass
in both directions. As current is increased, the valve opens
farther, allowing more fluid to flow. When fully energized, the
valve is fully open by allowing fluid to flow freely in both
directions. Therefore, by controlling the current to the valve, the
rate of the flow through the valve can be controlled.
[0031] The range of motion can also be controlled. Where the
platform angle is less than a predetermined limit, both of the
valves are energized and therefore the valves opened. This allows
the fluid to flow freely in both directions between the cylinders.
The platform is therefore allowed to tilt freely in the left and
right directions. If the platform reaches the tilt limit in the
right direction, the left solenoid valve is closed, blocking flow
into the left cylinder. The fluid from the right cylinder has
nowhere to go and right motion stops. The check valve allows fluid
to flow out of the left cylinder only. As a result, the platform
can move no further to the right but is free to move to the left.
If the platform reaches the tilt limit in the left direction, the
right solenoid valve is closed, blocking flow into the right
cylinder. The fluid from the left cylinder has nowhere to go and
left motion stops. The check valve allows fluid to flow out of the
right cylinder only. As a result, the platform can move no farther
to the left but is free to move to the right. The Y axis function
is identical to the X axis function behavior.
[0032] The rate of motion can also be controlled. Rate information
for the X and Y axis is supplied to the control electronics 38. The
controller adjusts the current to the proportional control valve to
limit the flow rate between the cylinders. The X and Y axis can be
independently set. The current settings are taken from an
empirically derived table which approximates the desired tilt rate.
This tilt rate is an approximation since it only defines the flow
at a specific pressure. The actual rate of motion will vary with
the applied load. No feedback is provided at this time to monitor
and control the actual rate.
[0033] The control electronics 38 receives data from the control
system and the tilt sensor and controls the state of the spool
valves and the proportional flow control valve. A small micro
controller receives rate and limit data from the control system.
Limit data is written out to 4 D/A converters creating a left,
right, forward and back analog limit voltage. Four comparators
compare this voltage to the analog signal from the tilt sensor. The
output of the comparators drive the gate of a power fet which
applies 24 DC to the appropriate spool valve. Where the tilt sensor
values are less than the limits, the solenoid valves becomes equal
to or greater than the limit, the comparator output goes low
de-energizing or closing the valve and stopping motion in that
direction. As the value falls below the limit, the value is again
energized, freeing the platform. Rate information is used to select
a value from a table within the micro controller. The table value
sets the duty cycle of a pulse width modulation (PWM) controller.
The PWM controller derives a power fet which supplies energy to the
solenoid. The drive sent to the solenoid coil is pulsating DC
voltage. The ration of on time to off time is the PWM value. This
pulse width modulation of the DC voltage controls the power sent to
the solenoid coil and thus the strength of the magnetic field. The
stronger the field, the more the valve opens. When the PWM is zero,
the valve is closed and no fluid can flow. When the PWM is at 100%
the valve is fully open and maximum flow is obtained.
[0034] Platform plate 15 can be made from cast aluminum or any
other suitable material that can accommodate the user maximum
weight requirements. The platform plate has a maximum tilt of 20
degrees in order to allow more stability to the user when
performing the exercises. The maximum tilt angle ensures a user
will not fall when engaging in the exercises and also provides
stability when a user is getting on or off from the disc. The load
cells 24 ensure accurate height settings and movement of the
balance platform 14.
[0035] In use, a user begins by standing on the balance platform of
the balance training system and initiating the monitor 16 and
control system 18. Information regarding the user's age, height,
and weight are input into the control system in order to set up the
balance training system. Optionally, the user may utilize a Smart
Card of Fit-Key System that identifies that individual and is
specific to the user. This way the user does not have to enter the
information every time. The Smart Card or Kit-Key System may also
store programs and records workout data of each user. The user is
then prompted to select from one of several different modes,
patterns, and other settings. According to the settings selected,
the user then engages in exercises involving manipulation of the
balance platform by shifting the weight in his legs. The control
system is operable to provide displays on the monitor for the user
to view in order to manipulate the display according to the
platform attitude.
[0036] The settings for the exercise settings require several
different inputs by the user. The monitor prompts the user to
adjust the amount of pressure to adjust the stability of the
platform. The pressure ranges from 0 to 15 psi, preferably between
0 and 6 psi. A lower pressure provides for greater instability of
the platform. A higher pressure provides for a more stable
platform. Typically users initially set the pressure setting closer
to 6 psi to provide a good balance between stability and
resistance. The selected pressure is generally one which at least
somewhat destabilizes the platform and causes the user to work
kinesthetically in maintaining the position of the platform
surface. The monitor also prompts the user to input a foot pattern
in that the user may either use his left foot only, his right foot
only, or both feet simultaneously to manipulate the platform.
Additionally, the monitor prompts the user to enter a time interval
for the exercise session.
[0037] The user must select from one of the following desired
modes: 1) maze; 2) review; 3) test; or 4) training. If the user
selects the maze, test, or training mode, he must further select
the desired manner for these modes. Any of these modes must be
performed in one of the three following manners: 1) static; 2)
dynamic move; or 3) dynamic. A user views a cursor or graphical
element on the display monitor. Graphically this cursor is
represented by an "X" on the monitor. The cursor is a visual
representation on the monitor of the user's body movements. As the
user moves, the cursor on the monitor moves in a corresponding
submode.
[0038] In a static submode, the user attempts to maintain his body
position on the balance platform such that the X cursor is centered
on the display monitor throughout the entire exercise interval.
[0039] FIG. 3 illustrates the display viewed by a user on the
monitor during a static submode exercise session. The goal of the
dynamic submodes is to engage the user in a series of exercise
sessions where the balance platform is used as a joystick. The user
either traces a pattern or moves through a virtual environment in
order to complete the exercise session.
[0040] In the dynamic pattern submode, the user attempts to
manipulate the cursor along the outline of a selected pattern in
order to trace the pattern. The pattern may be any of the
following: a circle (clockwise or counterclockwise); a square
(clockwise or counterclockwise); a cross; a FIG. 8; or an infinity
symbol.
[0041] In the dynamic submode, the user views both the cursor on
the monitor as well as a square icon. The user attempts to
manipulate the cursor in different ways with his body position. The
cursor is manipulated so that it is positioned over the square icon
and then moves the square icon. The square icon is moved throughout
a series of mazes or other activities that appear on the monitor.
Each activity contains paths and obstacles. Contained within the
obstacles of the configuration are circle icons. The user
manipulates the X cursor over the square icons in order to "pick
up" and "move" or "drag" the icons through the maze and on top of
the circle icons. Once the square icon has been positioned over the
circle icon, the circle icon is considered captured and the user
may then move on to capturing the other circle icons. Once all of
the circle icons have been captured, the maze is completed and the
session time is recorded and used for assessment of
improvement.
[0042] The user can also select a testing mode that tests for
dynamic visual acuity. This testing mode requires that the user
input the desired head motion speed as well as specify the head
direction. The mode then allows the user to do one of the following
three: 1) the user views visual letters or optotypes in a random
pattern; 2) the user views visual letters or optotypes only if the
head is moving within a particular velocity range and the user can
change this range as desired; or 3) the user views letters or
optotypes only if the head is moving in a particular direction
(right, left, up and down) and the user can change this direction
as desired. In use, once the settings have been input for the
desired dynamic visual acuity mode, the user would observe a letter
or optotype only if the user was moving his head in the desired
preset range. The wrong velocity and wrong direction would result
in no display to the user. The visual output would be displayed to
the user on a video projector that displays images at a distance of
5 to 10 feet from the rehabilitation device. Alternatively, the
output may be displayed on the monitor.
[0043] FIGS. 4 through 8 illustrate different mazes that may be
selected for use by the user in the dynamic submode. FIGS. 4 and 5
illustrate mazes that contains a honeycomb pattern with circles
positioned within the honeycomb pattern. FIG. 6 illustrates a maze
pattern that contains horizontal block obstacles with circles
positioned between the obstacles. FIG. 7 illustrates a maze pattern
that contains vertical block obstacles with circles positioned
between the obstacles. Finally, FIG. 8 illustrates a diagonal maze
pattern where the circles are positioned at the corner of each
diagonal. The goal with each of these mazes is to have the user
manipulate the X cursor over each of the square icons. The user
then "picks up" the square icon and "moves" or "drags" it through
the maze to capture the circle icons. Each maze requires different
steps of manipulation by the user because each maze has different
obstacles prevent certain types of movement of the square icon.
[0044] Once the interval is complete, the user can view the results
of the interval and compare it to previous interval sessions in
order to note improvement. This is done by selecting the review
mode. A representation of the graphs the user views are illustrated
in FIG. 9. A user viewing the report of FIG. 9 may review the data
from previous sessions and compare it to more recent sessions in
order to determine what amount of progress has been achieved. The
data is presented in a bar graph that summarizes the score the user
received during each training session versus the time it took to
achieve that score.
[0045] FIG. 10 illustrates a view of the balance training system
that incorporates the dynamic visual acuity features. The balance
training system includes an inflatable bladder 12, a balance
platform 14 comprising a platform disk 13 and a bladder, a monitor
16, a control system 18, a tilt sensor 19, a head tracker 39 and a
video screen 41. The videostagmoscopic head tracker 39 is worn on
the head of the user. The purpose and function of the rate sensor
is to sense horizontal or vertical head motion of the user. The
sensor receives and communicates the users' head velocity to the
control system 18. The control system is operably connected to a
video screen 41 that displays images at a distance of 5 to 10 feet
from the user. While the user is engaging in an exercise regimen,
the head velocity readings are communicated to the control system
and a visual output is then projected onto the video screen. The
visual output can be in the form of a letter capable of being
viewed by the user.
[0046] Once the user has selected which mode is desired (testing,
review, maze, or training), then the user selects an additional
mode for testing dynamic visual acuity. The user wears the head
tracker 39 while engaging in an exercise regimen. The head tracker
contains sensors that can determine the position and orientation of
the user while on the balance platform. The sensors and associated
head tracker can sense the head acceleration, velocity, and/or
orientation of the head. Alternatively, the sensors can be adapted
to determine the acceleration, velocity and/or orientation of the
head by using eye movement sensors. The sensor is operably
connected to the control system and the users' head velocity is
communicated to the control system as the user engages in an
exercise regimen. The control system then communicates a visual
output display to the video screen. The visual output can be in the
form of a display letter that appears in a random pattern on the
video screen. Alternatively, the display letter can appear to the
user only if the users' head is moving within a particular velocity
range or else only if the users' head is moving in a particular
direction (right, left, up, and down). The desired mode of
operation setting can be adjusted by the user prior to engagement
in the exercise regimen. Before use, the user can also input the
size of the display desired to be viewed using the normal eye chart
as a reference.
[0047] In use, the head tracker could be set for Right-50-100
deg/sec therapy. In this case the user would only see a letter
display on the screen if they were moving his head rightward in the
range of 50-100 deg/sec. If the user's head is not moving in the
correct velocity range, the head tracker sensors communicate this
to the control system which removes the visual display from the
video screen. A user may engage in repetitive head turning
exercises for the entire duration of the exercise regimen. The user
would continue to view the letter as long as his head was moving in
the appropriate direction and velocity. The letter disappears once
the users' head stops moving or as it moves back to center. The
user then once again views the letter upon achieving head movement
in the correct direction and at the correct velocity. This could
continue for the entire span of any particular exercise interval
session. The user could then change the input to Left-100-150 and
would result in a displayed letter only when the user was moving
his head leftward in the range of 100-150 deg/sec.
[0048] The system is calibrated by utilizing a series of
instructions used with respect to the existing setup. For each
calibration screen, the user is instructed to perform a specific
task in order for the system to collect the necessary calibration
data. For example, the user may first be prompted to step on or off
the platform and press OK. When the user is on the platform, he may
be instructed to tilt all the way forward or backward, then hit OK.
Then the user may be instructed to step back on the platform, tilt
all the way to the right or left, and then hit OK.
[0049] Thus, while the preferred embodiments of the devices and
methods have been described in reference to the environment in
which they were developed, they are merely illustrative of the
principles of the inventions. Other embodiments and configurations
may be devised without departing from the spirit of the inventions
and the scope of the appended claims.
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