U.S. patent application number 13/315885 was filed with the patent office on 2012-10-25 for wireless head set for lingual manipulation of an object, and method for moving a cursor on a display.
Invention is credited to Youhanna Al-Tawil.
Application Number | 20120268370 13/315885 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47017357 |
Filed Date | 2012-10-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120268370 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Al-Tawil; Youhanna |
October 25, 2012 |
Wireless Head Set for Lingual Manipulation of an Object, and Method
for Moving a Cursor on a Display
Abstract
A head set is provided. The head set is beneficial for assisting
an individual who is significantly impaired in the use of his or
her upper extremities. The system enables this individual to move a
cursor on a display of a computer or other processing device using
lingual musculature. The head set includes a head piece. The head
piece supports an articulating arm. The articulating arm supports a
mouthpiece at a distal end. The mouthpiece has a plurality of cells
embedded therein. The cells are configured to receive pressure
applied by the tongue of the user. Movement of the tongue over and
against the cells causes the cursor to be moved on the display. A
method for moving a cursor on a display using a mouthpiece
controlled through lingual movement is also provided. In addition,
a method of typing characters on a virtual keyboard using lingual
musculature is offered.
Inventors: |
Al-Tawil; Youhanna;
(Knoxville, TN) |
Family ID: |
47017357 |
Appl. No.: |
13/315885 |
Filed: |
December 9, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13092234 |
Apr 22, 2011 |
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13315885 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/157 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 3/0481 20130101;
G06F 3/011 20130101; G05G 1/52 20130101; A61F 4/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/157 |
International
Class: |
G09G 5/08 20060101
G09G005/08 |
Claims
1. A head set for facilitating movement of an object through
lingual manipulation, the head set comprising: a head piece; an arm
extending from the head piece and having a distal end; an
elastomeric mouthpiece comprising a bulb, the bulb being connected
proximate the distal end of the arm, and the bulb having a
plurality of fluid-containing cells embedded therein configured to
respond to pressure applied by the tongue of an individual when the
mouthpiece is in a mouth of the individual; a plurality of tubes,
each tube having a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal
end of each of the tubes being in substantially sealed fluid
communication with a corresponding cell, and the proximal end being
in substantially sealed fluid communication with a respective
transducer, wherein: each transducer is configured to convert
changes in pressure within the cells to electrical signals, and
each transducer is mechanically supported by the head set; a first
processor for processing the electrical signals, wherein the
electrical signals are modulated to generate a pressure profile
from the cells; and a transmitter for sending wireless signals from
the first processor to a second processor in accordance with the
pressure profile, wherein: the second processor is in electrical
communication with a cursor on a display, and the second processor
is programmed to cause the cursor to move across the display in
response to the wireless signals received from the transmitter.
2. The head set of claim 1, wherein: each cell and each tube
contains (i) a compressible fluid, (ii) a non-toxic incompressible
fluid, or (iii) a combination thereof.
3. The head set of claim 2, wherein: each cell and each tube
contains a compressible fluid; and the compressible fluid comprises
air, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or combinations thereof.
4. The head set of claim 2, wherein: each cell and each tube
contains a non-toxic incompressible fluid; and the incompressible
fluid comprises water.
5. The head set of claim 2, wherein the mouthpiece is fabricated
from polyisoprene rubber, silicone, chloroprene rubber, neoprene,
styrene butadiene rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, ethylene
propylene diene methylene, polyvinylchloride, polyethylene,
polyurethane, urethane-coated nylon, ethyl vinyl acetate, and
combinations thereof.
6. The head set of claim 2, wherein the bulb comprises at least
three outer cells disposed radially around a centerpoint.
7. The head set of claim 6, wherein the centerpoint defines a
separate central cell in fluid communication with one of the
plurality of tubes.
8. The head set of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of tubes
has an inner diameter of about 0.05 inches to 0.5 inches.
9. The head set of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of tubes
resides substantially at ambient pressure.
10. The head set of claim 2, wherein the pressure profile
represents a magnitude of pressure within cells, a direction of
pressure, a duration of pressure, or combinations thereof.
11. The head set of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of
transducers is a pressure sensor having a diaphragm that is
sensitive to changes in pressure within a tube.
12. The head set of claim 2, wherein the first processor receives
electrical signals from each of the plurality of transducers and
processes those signals such that each electrical signal represents
a pressure reading from a corresponding cell or from the combined
cells.
13. The head set of claim 12, wherein the first processor receives
each of the electrical signals, and averages the signals over a
specified period of time to produce the pressure profile, the
pressure profile having a peak indicative of location at which
pressure is being generated within the one or more cells during the
specified period of time.
14. The head set of claim 12, wherein the electrical signals are
voltage signals.
15. The head set of claim 12, wherein each of the transducers
comprises an analog-to-digital converter, such that the electrical
signals are digital signal values.
16. The head set of claim 2, wherein the head piece comprises a
pair of opposing head rests, with at least one of the head rests
being adjustable relative to the head piece.
17. The head set of claim 2, wherein the arm is an articulating arm
that comprises: a first arm portion extending from one of the
opposing head rests, and comprising a pivot point away from the
head rest; and a second arm portion connected to the pivot point,
and having the distal end away from the pivot point.
18. The head set of claim 2, wherein the head piece is configured
such that the first arm portion may be selectively connected to
either of the opposing head rests.
19. The head set of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of tubes
comprises more than one tubular body operatively connected through
a manifold to form individual, fluidically sealed channels.
20. The head set of claim 2, wherein the second processor is a
personal digital assistant, a tablet, a laptop computer, or a
desktop computer.
21. The head set of claim 2, wherein the second processor comprises
a transceiver for receiving wireless signals from the transmitter;
and is in electrical communication with (i) a motor for moving an
object, (ii) a switch for changing a state of an electrical
appliance, or (iii) both.
22. The head set of claim 2, wherein: the second processor
comprises a transceiver for receiving wireless signals from the
transmitter, and is in electrical communication with a motor for
moving a mechanically-controlled appliance; and the appliance is a
bed, a wheelchair, or a door.
23. The head set of claim 2, wherein: the second processor
comprises a transceiver for receiving wireless signals from the
transmitter, and is in electrical communication with a switch for
changing the state of an electrical appliance; and the switch
controls a light fixture, a television, or a thermostat.
24. The head set of claim 2, wherein the bulb comprises at least
three outer cells disposed radially and concentrically around a
centerpoint.
25. The head set of claim 2, wherein the bulb comprises at least
three outer cells disposed radially and eccentrically around a
centerpoint.
26. A method for moving a cursor on a display using lingual
manipulation, comprising: providing a head set for a user, the head
set comprising: a head piece; an arm extending from the head piece
and having a distal end; an elastomeric mouthpiece comprising a
bulb, the bulb being connected proximate the distal end of the arm,
and the bulb having a plurality of fluid-containing cells embedded
therein for receiving pressure applied by the tongue of a user; a
plurality of tubes, each tube having a proximal end and a distal
end, with the distal end of each of the tubes being in
substantially sealed fluid communication with a corresponding cell,
and the proximal end being in substantially sealed fluid
communication with a respective transducer wherein: each transducer
converts changes in pressure within the cells to electrical
signals, and each transducer is mechanically supported by the head
set; a first processor for processing the electrical signals,
wherein the electrical signals are modulated to generate a pressure
profile from the cells; a transmitter; placing the plurality of
tubes in fluid communication with the corresponding plurality of
transducers; and placing the first processor in operative
electrical communication with the second processor, wherein the
second processor: is in electrical communication with a cursor on a
display, and is programmed to cause the cursor to move across the
display in response to wireless electrical signals received form
the transmitter in accordance with the pressure profile.
27. The method of claim 26, wherein: each cell and each tube
contains (i) a compressible fluid, (ii) a non-toxic incompressible
fluid, or (iii) a combination thereof.
28. The method of claim 27, wherein the compressible fluid
comprises air, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, or combinations
thereof.
29. The method of claim 27, wherein the incompressible fluid
comprises water.
30. The method of claim 26, wherein the mouthpiece is fabricated
from polyisoprene rubber, silicone, chloroprene rubber, neoprene,
styrene butadiene rubber, acrylonitrile butadiene rubber, ethylene
propylene diene methylene, polyvinylchloride, polyethylene,
polyurethane, urethane-coated nylon, ethyl vinyl acetate, and
combinations thereof.
31. The method of claim 26, wherein the bulb comprises at least
three outer cells disposed radially around a centerpoint.
32. The method of claim 26, wherein the pressure profile represents
a magnitude of pressure within the cells, a direction of pressure,
a duration of pressure, or combinations thereof.
33. The method of claim 26, wherein each of the plurality of tubes
has an inner diameter of about 0.05 inches to 0.5 inches.
34. The method of claim 26, wherein each of the plurality of
transducers is a pressure sensor having a diaphragm that is
sensitive to changes in pressure within a tube.
35. The method of claim 26, wherein the first processor receives
electrical signals from each of the plurality of transducers and
processes those signals such that each electrical signal represents
a pressure reading from a corresponding cell or from the combined
cells.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein the first processor receives
each of the electrical signals, and averages the signals over a
specified period of time to produce the pressure profile, the
pressure profile having a peak indicative of location at which
pressure is being generated within the one or more cells during the
specified period of time.
37. The method of claim 35, wherein each of the transducers
comprises an analog-to-digital converter, such that the electrical
signals are digital signal values.
38. The method of claim 27, wherein the head piece comprises a pair
of opposing head rests, with at least one of the head rests being
adjustable relative to the head piece.
39. The method of claim 26, wherein: the head set further comprises
a manifold; each of the plurality of tubes comprises a jumper
portion between a respective transducer and the manifold, and a
mouthpiece portion between the manifold and the mouthpiece; and
placing the plurality of tubes in fluid communication with the
corresponding plurality of transducers comprises connecting the
mouthpiece portion of each of the tubes to the manifold.
40. The method of claim 26, wherein: the second processor is a
personal digital assistant, a tablet, a laptop computer, or a
desktop computer; the transmitter is a first transceiver; and the
first transceiver communicates wirelessly with a second transceiver
associated with the second processor.
41. The method of claim 26, further comprising: selecting a symbol
on the display to actuate a mechanical or an electrical
appliance.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein the second processor is
configured such that the user may click on a symbol on the display
by applying pressure on a centerpoint of the mouthpiece for a
specified period of time and at a specified magnitude.
43. The method of claim 41, wherein the symbol on the display
comprises a picture, one or more alphanumeric characters, an arrow,
or a geometric figure.
44. The method of claim 41, wherein: the processor is in electrical
communication with a motor for moving a mechanical appliance; and
the symbol on the display corresponds to the appliance.
45. The method of claim 44, wherein the appliance is a bed, a
wheelchair, or a door.
46. The method of claim 41, wherein: the processor is in electrical
communication with a switch for changing an electrical state of an
appliance; and the symbol on the display corresponds to the
appliance.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein the appliance is a light
fixture, a television, or a thermostat.
48. The method of claim 26, wherein the display comprises: a
virtual keyboard such that a user may select a series of characters
on the keyboard using their tongue to compose a textual message;
and a "send" symbol that, when selected by the user, the textual
message is sent through a wireless communications system.
49. A method of typing characters on a virtual keyboard using
lingual musculature, comprising: wearing a head set on a head, the
head set comprising: a head piece; an articulating arm extending
from the head piece and having a distal end; an elastomeric
mouthpiece comprising a bulb, the bulb being connected proximate
the distal end of the articulating arm, and the bulb having a
plurality of fluid-containing cells embedded therein and configured
for receiving pressure applied by the tongue of a user when the
mouthpiece is in a mouth of the user; a plurality of tubes, each
tube having a proximal end and a distal end, with the proximal end
of each of the tubes being in substantially sealed fluid
communication with a corresponding plurality of transducers for
converting changes in pressure within the cells to electrical
signals, and with the distal end of each of the tubes being in
substantially sealed fluid communication with a corresponding cell,
wherein: each transducer converts changes in pressure within the
cells to electrical signals, and each transducer is mechanically
supported by the head set; a first processor for processing the
electrical signals, wherein the electrical signals are modulated to
generate a pressure profile from the cells, the pressure profile
representing a magnitude of pressure within the cells, a direction
of pressure, a duration of pressure, or combinations thereof; a
transmitter; placing the mouthpiece in one's mouth; moving one's
tongue across a bottom surface of the mouthpiece so as to apply
pressure to cells of the mouthpiece in order to move a cursor on a
display, the display having a digital keyboard associated with a
second processor that receives the electrical signals via a
wireless communications system, and the cursor moving across the
digital keyboard in accordance with the pressure profile; using the
cursor to select characters on the digital keyboard; and clicking
on selected characters on the digital keyboard using lingual
musculature on the mouthpiece in order to compose a textual
message.
50. The method of claim 49, wherein: applying pressure to the cells
causes changes in air pressure within the plurality of tubes, such
changes being sensed by each of the plurality of transducers and
converted to an electrical signal.
51. The method of claim 50, wherein each of the plurality of
transducers is a pressure sensor having a diaphragm that is
sensitive to changes in pressure within a tube.
52. The method of claim 51, wherein the signal processor receives
electrical signals from each of the plurality of transducers and
processes those signals such that: each electrical signal
represents a pressure reading from a corresponding cell; and
electrical signals from one or more corresponding cells are
averaged over a specified period of time to produce the pressure
profile, the pressure profile having a peak indicative of location
at which pressure is being generated within the one or more cells
during the specified period of time.
53. The method of claim 51, wherein: each cell and each tube
contains (i) a compressible fluid, (ii) a non-toxic incompressible
fluid, or (iii) a combination thereof.
54. The method of claim 50, wherein: the second processor is a
personal digital assistant, a tablet, a laptop computer, or a
desktop computer; the transmitter is a first transceiver; and the
first transceiver communicates wirelessly with a second transceiver
associated with the second processor.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of a non-provisional
patent application bearing U.S. Ser. No. 13/092,234 filed 22 Apr.
2011. That application is entitled "Head Set for Lingual
Manipulation of an Object, and Method for Moving a Cursor on a
Display."
[0002] The non-provisional application claimed the benefit of U.S.
Ser. No. 12/782,356, filed 18 May 2010. That application is
entitled "Methods and Systems for Lingual Movement to Manipulate an
Object." This non-provisional application, in turn, claimed the
benefit of U.S. Ser. No. 12/556,237, filed 9 Sep. 2009, also
entitled "Methods and Systems for Lingual Movement to Manipulate an
Object."
[0003] The '237 non-provisional patent application claimed the
benefit of a provisional patent application bearing U.S. Ser. No.
61/096,508, filed 12 Sep. 2008.
[0004] These related applications are each incorporated herein by
reference in their entireties.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0005] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0006] 1. Field of the Invention
[0007] The present invention relates to assistive devices. More
specifically, the present invention relates to a head set that
allows an individual who has limited use of their upper extremities
to change the position or status of an object through lingual
manipulation. The invention also relates to tongue-operated
wireless communication devices.
[0008] 2. Technology in the Field of the Invention
[0009] Some individuals have limited use of their upper
extremities. Such individuals may, for example, have suffered a
stroke. The term "stroke" is a lay term that refers to a condition
wherein the blood supply to an area of the brain is temporarily cut
off. When blood fails to get through to parts of the brain, the
oxygen supply to those areas is cut off. Without oxygen, brain
cells die. The longer the brain is without blood, the more severe
the damage will be. Where the portion of the brain that controls
movement of the upper extremities is damaged, the individual may be
left in a state of partial paralysis.
[0010] Individuals may also lose function of their upper
extremities as a result of an injury. Such injuries may occur due
to a car accident, a diving accident, a fall, or other trauma. In
these instances, the individual's cervical spine and nerves may be
injured, producing partial or complete paralysis of the hands or
arms.
[0011] In addition to these events, some individuals may develop
upper paralysis as a result of a medical condition. Examples of
such conditions include amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS),
hypokalemic periodic paralysis, cerebral palsy, or other diseases.
Finally, some individuals may completely lose all or a portion of
both arms due to an explosion or accident incident to work or
military duty.
[0012] When any of these conditions of paralysis or injury occur,
the individual is left without the ability to move an object using
his or her arms. Thus, the individual cannot turn off a light,
adjust a bed, change a channel, send text messages, or conduct
countless other activities that most people take for granted.
[0013] Assistive devices have been presented for disabled persons.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,833,786 presents a pneumatic de-multiplexer that
utilizes a "sip-and-puff" tube for manipulating an appliance. The
sip-and-puff technology allows a user to selectively inhale and
exhale to cause movement of a wheelchair or to operate another
appliance. However, sip-and-puff technology would be extremely
cumbersome for typing a message on a display or for navigating
web-based applications on a micro-computer.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 7,071,844 describes a wireless,
tongue-operated device for controlling electronic systems. The
device is said to utilize a single electrical sensor 11 embedded in
an oral sensor-mounting device, such as a dental retainer or a
mouth-guard. The sensor is said to generate electrical signals to
an interface, which then processes the signals into control
signals. The '844 patent fails to identify a source, name, or model
number for the depicted electrical sensor. Further, the '844 patent
fails to describe how the sensor would be powered (neither a power
wire nor a cable is shown or mentioned), and fails to explain where
one would obtain or how one would design an electrical sensor
offering multiple detected regions for computing movement of a
user's tongue.
[0015] Therefore, a need exists for an improved apparatus that will
allow an individual having limited use of their upper extremities
to move or change the state of an object using their tongue.
Further, a need exists for a head set having a connected mouthpiece
that allows an individual to move a cursor on a display using
lingual manipulation. Finally, a need exists for a head set that
enables the typing of characters on a digital keyboard for the
purpose of sending a text message or navigating a web site.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0016] A head set is first provided herein. The head set is
beneficial for assisting an individual who is significantly
impaired in the use of his or her upper extremities. The head set
enables such an individual to manipulate an object. The object may
be a mechanical device such as a door or a bed. Alternatively, the
object may be an electrical appliance, wherein "moving" the
appliance means turning it on, off, up or down. Alternatively
still, the object may be a cursor on a digital display or
screen.
[0017] In one embodiment, the head set first includes a head piece.
The head piece preferably comprises a pair of opposing head rests
joined together by an arched support member. Preferably, at least
one of the head rests is adjustable relative to the support
member.
[0018] The head set also includes an articulating arm. The
articulating arm extends from a head rest, and has a distal end. In
one aspect, the articulating arm comprises a first arm portion
extending from one of the head rests, and a pivot point away from
the head rest. The articulating arm then comprises a second arm
portion connected to the pivot point, and having the distal end of
the arm extending away from the pivot point.
[0019] The head set also includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece
defines a bulb that is dimensioned to fit inside a user's mouth.
The bulb is connected proximate the distal end of the articulating
arm. The bulb is fabricated from an elastomeric material.
[0020] The mouthpiece has a plurality of cells embedded therein.
The cells are configured to receive pressure applied by the tongue
of an individual. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece comprises at
least three outer cells, or alternatively, at least five cells,
with the cells being disposed radially around the mouthpiece. The
cells are separated by walls fabricated within the mouthpiece.
[0021] Each of the cells contains a fluid. The fluid may be air or
some other non-toxic gas. In this instance, the cells may be
referred to as air cells. Alternatively or in addition, the fluid
may be water or other non-toxic liquid. In this case, the cells are
fluid cells. For ease of reference, the cells will be described
herein as simply that--cells.
[0022] The head set also includes a plurality of tubes. Each tube
has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of each of the
tubes is in substantially sealed fluid communication with a
corresponding cell. This may be by means of an integral connection
between the distal end of the tubes and respective walls. More
preferably, the distal ends of the tubes are received in channels
associated with the individual cells.
[0023] Each of the plurality of tubes may generally reside at
ambient pressure. Alternatively, and by way of example only, each
of the plurality of tubes may be pre-loaded at a pressure of about
15 psi to 25 psi.
[0024] A plurality of transducers is also provided as part of the
head set. Each transducer is in substantially sealed fluid
communication with the proximal end of a corresponding tube. The
transducers convert changes in pressure within the respective cells
to corresponding electrical signals. Such electrical signals may
be, for example, voltage signals, current signals, or resistive
changes. The transducers are preferably in the nature of pressure
sensors.
[0025] The head set further includes a first processor. The first
processor processes the electrical signals. The processor may
include an analog-to-digital converter, meaning that electrical
signals from the pressure sensors are converted into digital
values. The converted electrical signals, such as voltage signals,
are then modulated to generate a pressure profile from the cells.
The pressure profile represents a magnitude of pressure within the
cells, a direction of pressure, a duration of pressure, or
combinations thereof. The processor converts the pressure profile
into operational commands via software or firmware.
[0026] The operational commands are sent via a wireless transmitter
that is also part of the head set. The transmitter delivers the
commands to a transceiver. The transceiver is in electrical
communication with a second processor. The second processor causes
a cursor to move across a display, with the display having
alphanumeric and/or other symbols. Thus, the first processor
communicates wirelessly with the display via the second
processor.
[0027] In this embodiment, the display provides a visual platform
for the movement of a cursor in accordance with the pressure
profile. The cursor is manipulated by application of pressure on
the cells using lingual movement. Once the cursor is in position
over a letter or other symbol, the user may "click" on the
symbol.
[0028] In one embodiment, "clicking" a symbol activates a motor on
an appliance or changes the state of an electrical appliance. For
example, the transceiver may send instructions that cause the motor
to move an object such as a bed, a door or a wheelchair.
Alternatively, the transceiver may send an instruction to a switch.
The switch changes the electrical state of an appliance such as a
light fixture, a television, or a thermostat. Thus, the first
processor is in operationally electrical communication with an
electrical appliance or a switch.
[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the display includes a digital
keyboard. Moving the cursor over the keyboard allows a user to
"type" a message or "click" on a link to a web page or access an
application. Thus, even a user with severe limitations to his or
her upper extremities is able to use a micro-computer such as a
tablet, a smart phone, or a personal digital assistant. The only
requirement is that the micro-computer have wireless capability
such as Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, or Bluetooth.
[0030] A method for moving a cursor using lingual manipulation is
also provided herein. The method first includes providing a head
set for a user. The head set is designed in accordance with the
head set described above. In this respect, the head set has a head
piece, and an articulating arm extending from the head piece. The
articulating arm has a distal end.
[0031] The head set also includes a mouthpiece. The mouthpiece
defines an elastomeric bulb that is connected proximate the distal
end of the articulating arm. The bulb has a plurality of cells
embedded therein for receiving pressure applied by the tongue of a
user. The mouthpiece is dimensioned to fit inside the mouth of a
user.
[0032] The head set also includes a plurality of tubes. Each tube
has a proximal end and a distal end. The distal end of each of the
tubes is in substantially sealed fluid communication with a
corresponding cell. The head set then also includes a plurality of
transducers. Each transducer is in substantially sealed fluid
communication with the proximal end of a corresponding tube. The
transducers convert changes in pressure within the respective cells
to corresponding electrical signals. Such electrical signals may
be, for example, voltage signals, current signals, or resistive
changes. The transducers are preferably in the nature of pressure
sensors.
[0033] The head set further includes a first processor. The first
processor processes the electrical signals. The converted
electrical signals, such as voltage signals, are then modulated to
generate a pressure profile from the cells. The first processor
resides on the head set and converts the pressure profile into
operational commands via software or firmware.
[0034] The pressure profile is based upon pressure readings from
the various cells. In one aspect, pressure signals are processed
such that each electrical signal represents a pressure reading from
a corresponding cell or from the combined cells. Electrical signals
from one or more corresponding cells may be averaged over a
specified period of time to produce the pressure profile. The
pressure profile may be in, for example, vector form or matrix
form. The pressure profile may have a peak indicative of location
at which pressure is being generated within the one or more cells
during the specified period of time.
[0035] The processor also includes a transmitter. The transmitter
is part of the head set, and is configured to wirelessly
communicate with a transceiver. In one aspect, the transmitter is
an infrared controller. In another aspect, the transmitter is a
first transceiver that uses Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigby, or other
wireless technology to send command signals that correspond to the
pressure profile. The first transceiver communicates with a second
transceiver that in turn communicates with a second processor. The
second processor causes a cursor to move across a display in
response to the command signals. Thus, the first processor
communicates wirelessly with the display via the second
processor.
[0036] The method also includes placing the plurality of tubes in
fluid communication with the corresponding plurality of
transducers. Manipulating air pressure within the plurality of
tubes allows a user to cause the cursor on the display to move in
accordance with the pressure profile.
[0037] Preferably, the method also includes providing one or more
symbols on the display. The user may "click" on a symbol using the
cursor as controlled by the user's tongue. The symbol on the
display comprises a picture, one or more alphanumeric characters,
an arrow, a geometric figure, or combinations thereof.
[0038] In one embodiment, the second processor is in electrical
communication with a motor for moving an object. In this instance,
one of the one or more symbols on the display corresponds to the
object. The object may be, for example a bed, a wheelchair, or a
door. The user may "click" on a symbol using the cursor and their
tongue to, for example, cause a door to close or to cause a
wheelchair to move.
[0039] Alternatively, the second processor is in electrical
communication with an electrical appliance. In this instance, one
of the one or more symbols on the display corresponds to the
appliance. The appliance may be, for example, a light fixture, a
television, or a thermostat. The user may "click" on a symbol using
the cursor and their tongue to, for example, cause a light to dim
or to turn on and off.
[0040] Preferably, the display presents a digital keyboard. This
allows the user to move the cursor using lingual manipulation in
order to select a series of characters on the keyboard. In this
way, the user may compose a textual message or navigate web sites.
The method then includes the step of providing a "send" symbol on
the display that, when selected by the user, sends the textual
message or a search command through a wireless communications
system.
[0041] Finally, a method of typing characters on a virtual keyboard
using lingual musculature is provided herein. In one embodiment,
such method includes providing a head set as generally described
above. The method further includes placing the plurality of tubes
in fluid communication with the corresponding plurality of
transducers. Preferably, each of the plurality of transducers is a
pressure sensor having a diaphragm that is sensitive to changes in
pressure within a corresponding tube. These changes are processed
as electrical signals, and converted into command signals.
[0042] The method also includes sending the command signals to a
transceiver, wherein the transceiver is in operative electrical
communication with a display. The display includes a digital
keyboard. A cursor on the display is caused to move in accordance
with the pressure profile. The cursor is used to select characters
on the virtual keyboard. The selected characters on the virtual
keyboard are "clicked" using the mouthpiece. In this way, the user
may compose a textual message one character at a time.
Alternatively, the user may click on a link in to a web page or
operate an application on a tablet or conduct an internet
search.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0043] So that the manner in which the present invention can be
better understood, certain illustrations, charts and/or flow charts
are appended hereto. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings
illustrate only selected embodiments of the inventions and are
therefore not to be considered limiting of scope, for the
inventions may admit to other equally effective embodiments and
applications.
[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an intra-oral system
according to the present invention, in one embodiment. A head set
is seen as part of the system, with the head set having a bulbous
mouthpiece.
[0045] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece from the
intra-oral system of FIG. 1, in one embodiment. The cross-section
is taken across a major axis of the mouthpiece.
[0046] FIG. 2B is another cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece
from the system of FIG. 1. Here, the cross-section is taken across
a minor axis of the mouthpiece.
[0047] FIG. 2C is a top view of the mouthpiece from the system of
FIG. 1. Individual fluid cells are shown along with corresponding
tubes.
[0048] FIG. 3A is a top, cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece as
may be used with a head set of the present inventions, in an
alternate embodiment.
[0049] FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece of FIG.
3A, taken across line 3B-3B.
[0050] FIG. 4A is a top, cross-sectional view of a mouthpiece as
may be used with a head set of the present inventions, in yet
another alternate embodiment.
[0051] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece of FIG.
4A, taken across line 4B-4B.
[0052] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the tube bundle
associated with the head set of FIG. 1, in one embodiment.
[0053] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the head set of
the present inventions, in one embodiment.
[0054] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a tube bundle in
an alternative embodiment. A mouthpiece is seen at one end of the
tube bundle, and an electronics box for containing operational
components is shown at an opposite end of the tube bundle.
[0055] FIGS. 8A through 8C present various arrangements for
displays from the system of FIG. 1.
[0056] In FIG. 8A, the display shows a cursor that may be moved on
a display. The cursor is moved through lingual manipulation in
order to operate a wheelchair or other mechanical device.
[0057] In FIG. 8B, the display also shows a cursor that may be
moved on a display. Here, the cursor is moved through lingual
manipulation in order to change the status of an electrical
appliance.
[0058] In FIG. 8C, the display again shows a cursor that may be
moved on a display. Here, the cursor is moved through lingual
manipulation in order to "press" or "click" on keys from a virtual
keyboard.
[0059] FIGS. 9A and 9B provide a single flowchart for a method for
moving a cursor on a display using lingual manipulation, in one
embodiment. The flowchart offers alternate final steps for causing
an external action.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
Definitions
[0060] As used herein, the term "cursor" means any indicator of a
position on a computer screen or display. The cursor may be, for
example, a flashing bar, an underline, or an arrow or other
symbol.
[0061] The term "send" refers to any hey or any action for
activating an electronic action. Such actions may include
performing a search, sending a query, or sending a text message or
an e-mail.
[0062] The term "first processor" means any device that has a
computational element in communication with a transmitter. The
first processor may be a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a
complex instruction set computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced
instruction set (RISC) microprocessor, a very long instruction word
(VLIW) microprocessor, or any other type of processor or processing
circuit that may be embedded in an electrical circuit board for
communicating with pressure transducers.
[0063] The term "second processor" means any device that is
separate from the "first processor" but that also has a
computational element. The second processor may be a
microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set
computing (CISC) microprocessor, a reduced instruction set (RISC)
microprocessor, a very long instruction word (VLIW) microprocessor,
or any other type of processor or processing circuit found within a
personal digital assistant or a tablet. The second processor may be
a personal digital assistant; alternatively, the second processor
may be a part of a laptop computer or a desktop computer.
[0064] The term "tablet" means any portable electronic device
having a transceiver that allows a user to read a book, view a
video, download a song, send a text message, view an e-mail
message, manage a calendar, maintain a personal directory, or
combinations thereof.
[0065] The term "personal digital assistant" refers to any
hand-held computer having wireless communication capability. An
example is a so-called "smart phone," such as a Blackberry.RTM., a
Droid.RTM., or an iPhone.RTM..
[0066] The term "transmitter" includes any device or protocol for
sending a wireless signal. The transmitter may be an infrared
controller or other device that provides essentially one-way
instructions or commands. Alternatively, the transmitter may be a
transceiver that uses a two-way communications protocol. In this
instance, the transmitter may utilize, for example, Bluetooth
technology. Cl Description of Specific Embodiments
[0067] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an intra-oral system 100, in
one embodiment. Various components of the system 100 are shown. The
system 100 generally includes a mouth piece 110, a head set 600 for
supporting the mouth piece 110, a first processor 172 located on
the head set 600, and a second processor 150. As will be described
more fully below, the first processor 170 is preferably a
micro-controller, while the second processor 150 is preferably a
micro-computer, such as a so-called tablet or a so-called personal
digital assistant.
[0068] The purpose of the intra-oral system 100 is to allow a user
who has limited use of his or her upper extremities to communicate
with the processing unit 150. More specifically, the head set 600
allows the user to communicate with the processing unit 150 for the
purpose of sending and receiving text messages, for navigating web
sites and dedicated applications, for reading a book, for changing
the status of an appliance, or combinations thereof. The head set
600 is mechanically untethered to the second processor 150 and any
appliances that it may operate.
[0069] The intra-oral system 100 operates by means of a mouth piece
110. The mouth piece 110 may be referred to as a "mouth mouse," as
it allows the user to move a curser on a computer display using
lingual musculature. In FIG. 1, an illustrative display is shown at
156.
[0070] Enlarged views of the mouthpiece 110 are provided in FIGS.
2A through 2C.
[0071] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece 110 from
the system of FIG. 1 and the head set 600, in one embodiment. The
cross-section is taken across a major axis. FIG. 2B is another
cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece 110. Here, the cross-section
is taken across a minor axis. FIG. 2C is a top view of the
mouthpiece 110 from the head set 600. Features of the mouthpiece
110 will be discussed with reference to these three figures
together.
[0072] The mouthpiece 110 is designed to be substantially hollow.
To this end, the mouthpiece 110 defines a bottom surface 112 and a
top surface 114. The bottom surface 112 is preferably substantially
flat while the top surface 114 is preferably curved, or convex, to
create an arcuate profile. The arcuate profile is designed to
conform to the concave shape of a user's mouth.
[0073] The mouthpiece 110 is configured to be selectively inserted
into an individual's mouth (not shown). As noted, the individual is
preferably a person who has limited use of their upper extremities.
However, the individual may also be may be a patient who is in need
of therapy to develop the intra-oral musculature. Such a patient
may be, for example, a stroke victim or the victim of a head or
neck injury. Alternatively, such a patient may be a child who
suffers from congenital limitations in chewing and/or swallowing
food.
[0074] The mouthpiece is preferably fabricated from an elastomeric
material. Suitable materials may include polyisoprene rubber,
chloroprene rubber, neoprene rubber, styrene butadiene rubber, and
acrylonitrile butadiene rubber. Additional suitable examples
include silicone, ethylene propylene diene methylene,
polyvinylchloride, polyethylene, polyurethane, urethane-coated
nylon, and ethyl vinyl acetate. Combinations of these materials may
also be employed.
[0075] The mouthpiece 110 includes a plurality of cells 115, 118.
In the arrangement of FIGS. 2A through 2C, six cells 115, 118 are
provided. These represent a central cell 115 and then five separate
cells 118 spaced radially around the central cell 115. Preferably,
at least three radial cells 118 are used. In the illustrative
arrangement of FIGS. 2A through 2C, the mouthpiece 110 has five
radial cells 118. The radial cells 118 preferably are equi-radial
in dimension, meaning that each cell 118 forms a substantially
equal angle extending from a center point of the mouthpiece 110. In
addition, each radial cell 118 has a substantially similar
volume.
[0076] Each cell 115, 118 holds a volume of fluid. The fluid may be
a compressible fluid, or gas. The compressible fluid may be air or
another non-toxic gas. The compressible fluid may comprise oxygen,
carbon dioxide, nitrogen, helium, argon, or combinations thereof.
Alternatively, the fluid may be a substantially non-compressible
fluid, such as water or other non-toxic liquid. A combination of
compressible and non-compressible fluids may also be employed. In
any instance, fabrication of the intra-oral system 100 will
typically involve establishing a baseline pressure within the cells
115, 118, as discussed more fully below.
[0077] Preferably, the fluid is held at ambient pressure.
Alternatively, the fluid in the cells 115, 118 is pre-loaded at a
higher pressure such as between about 15 psi and 25 psi. In this
way, the mouthpiece 110 is at least nominally resistive to pressure
placed by the patient using his or her tongue.
[0078] To define the cells 115, 118, the mouthpiece 110 includes a
series of walls 119. The walls 119 are sealed between the bottom
surface 112 and the top surface 114. Sealing may be through heat
sealing, RF sealing, or other mechanisms known in the art of
plastic injection molding or other molding techniques.
[0079] The cells 118 of the mouthpiece 110 are in fluid
communication with respective tubes 125. The tubes 125 are seen in
the top view of FIG. 2C. Each cell 118 receives its own tube 125.
It is noted that in the arrangement of FIG. 2C, the central cell
115 does not receive a tube, but is dead. Indeed, in one
arrangement, the central cell 115 may hold no fluid, but just
defines a center point in the mouthpiece 110.
[0080] The tubes 125 are sealingly disposed within the walls 119 of
the mouthpiece 110. The tubes 125 are preferably manufactured to be
integral to respective walls 119.
[0081] The mouthpiece 110 and the connection to the tubes 125 may
be configured in different sizes. The size will primarily be
dictated by the size of the individual user's mouth. It is noted
that for smaller users, fewer cells may be necessitated due to size
limitations. The number of cells will affect the manner in which
the intra-oral system 100 is programmed.
[0082] The tubes 125 exit the mouthpiece 110 through an end opening
116. The end opening 116 defines a circular orifice that
frictionally and, optionally, sealingly receives a bundle of tubes
125. The tubes 125 extend from respective walls 119, travel through
an end area 128 of the mouthpiece 110 (which is preferably not a
cell), travel through the end opening 116, and then exit the
mouthpiece 110.
[0083] In the mouthpiece 110 of FIG. 2C, the tubes 125 connect to
the walls 119 internal to the mouthpiece 110, that is, through the
end area 128 and through the central cell 115. However, some or all
of the tubes 125 may alternatively enter the cells 115 from a top,
a bottom or an outer edge of the bulb defining the mouthpiece 110.
The present inventions are not limited by the method of providing
fluid communication between the tubes 125 and the cells 115 unless
so provided in the claims.
[0084] In the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2C, the tubes 125 are
optionally bundled as they exit the mouthpiece 110. That means that
the tubes 125 are held together externally by a tubular sheath 120.
The tubular sheath 120 protects the individual tubes 125, and also
prevents them from becoming tangled en route to the head set
600.
[0085] The mouthpiece and tubes arrangement of FIGS. 2A through 2C
is merely illustrative. Other arrangements for the mouth piece 110
and tubes 125 may be provided. Alternate arrangements are shown in
FIGS. 3A through 3B, and FIGS. 4A through 4B.
[0086] First, FIG. 3A is a top, cross-sectional view of a
mouthpiece 310 as may be used in the intra-oral system 100 of FIG.
1, in an alternate embodiment. FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional view of
the mouthpiece 310 of FIG. 3A, taken across line 3-3. The
mouthpiece 310 provides an eccentric cell design. The mouthpiece
310 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B,
together.
[0087] The mouthpiece 310 first includes a plurality of cells 318.
The cells 318 are defined by walls 319 that form the cells 318. As
shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 3B, the walls 319 are
sealed with a bottom surface 312. However, portions of the walls
319 are separate from a top surface 314.
[0088] The bottom surface 112 is preferably substantially flat,
while the top surface 114 is preferably curved, or convex, to
create an arcuate profile. The arcuate profile is designed to
conform to the concave shape of a user's mouth. The top surface 314
over-arches several of the cells 318 in an eccentric fashion. In
doing so, the top surface 314 forms a partially-hollow bulb
305.
[0089] The cells 318 are radially disposed about a centerpoint 315.
In the arrangement of FIG. 3A, the centerpoint 315 is not the
geometric center of the bulb 305. The cells 318 are also
encompassed by an outer wall 316. The outer wall 316 is preferably
integral to the bottom surface 312 and the top surface 314.
[0090] The bulb 305 is located at a proximal end 340 of the
mouthpiece 310. The mouthpiece 310 also has a distal end 320 where
a connection to the tubes 125 is made. This means that the
mouthpiece 310 connects to the tubes 125 outside of the user's
mouth. The distal end 320 is opposite from the bulb 305.
[0091] The distal end 320 has a series of walls 322. The walls 322
form five channels 324. Each channel 324 is configured to sealingly
receive a respective tube 125. Intermediate the proximal end 340
and the distal end 320 is a transition section 330. The transition
section 330 also includes walls 332 that form five channels 334.
The transition channels 334 place the tubes 125 in fluid
communication with respective cells 318.
[0092] Second, FIG. 4A provides a top, cross-sectional view of a
mouthpiece 410 as may be used in the intra-oral system 100 of FIG.
1, in yet another alternate embodiment. FIG. 4B is a
cross-sectional view of the mouthpiece 410 of FIG. 4A, taken across
line 4-4. Here, the mouthpiece 410 provides a concentric cell
design. The mouthpiece 410 will be described with reference to
FIGS. 4A and 4B, together.
[0093] As with mouthpiece 310, the mouthpiece 410 first includes a
plurality of cells 418. The cells 418 are defined by walls 419 that
form the cells 418. As shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG.
3B, the walls 419 are sealed with a bottom surface 412. However,
portions of the walls 419 are separate from a top surface 414.
[0094] The bottom surface 412 is preferably substantially flat,
while the top surface 414 is preferably curved, or convex, to
create an arcuate profile. The arcuate profile is designed to
conform to the concave shape of a user's mouth. The top surface 414
over-arches several of the cells 418 in a concentric fashion. In
doing so, the top surface 414 forms a partially-hollow bulb
405.
[0095] The cells 418 are radially disposed about a centerpoint 415.
In the arrangement of FIG. 4A, the centerpoint 415 is near the
geometric center of the bulb 405. The cells 418 are also
encompassed by an outer wall 416. The outer wall 416 is preferably
integral to the bottom surface 412 and the top surface 414.
[0096] The bulb 405 is located at a proximal end 440 of the
mouthpiece 410. The mouthpiece 410 also has a distal end 420 where
a connection to the tubes 125 is made. This means that the
mouthpiece 410 again connects to the tubes 125 outside of the
user's mouth. The distal end 420 is opposite from the bulb 405.
[0097] The distal end 420 has a series of walls 422. The walls 422
form five channels 424. Each channel 424 is configured to sealingly
receive a respective tube 125. Intermediate the proximal end 440
and the distal end 420 is a transition section 430. The transition
section 430 also includes walls 432 that form five channels 434.
The transition channels 434 place the tubes 125 in fluid
communication with respective cells 418.
[0098] It is noted that in each mouthpiece 310, 410, each cell (318
or 418) and its corresponding channel (334 or 434) forms a volume
for holding fluid. The cells and corresponding channels preferably
have substantially similar volumes. However, this is not critical,
as the cells 318, 418 and corresponding channels 334, 434 may be
pre-loaded with fluid so as to equalize pressures among the cells
318, 418.
[0099] Regardless of the mouthpiece arrangement, fluid pressure is
delivered from the mouthpiece to the individual tubes 125. The
tubes 125 are bundled into a sheath 120. FIG. 5 is a
cross-sectional view of a tube bundle 500 from the system 100, in
one embodiment. In the arrangement of FIG. 5, the tube bundle 500
includes a tubular sheath 120. The tubular sheath 120 helps to
protect the tubes 125 and keeps them from getting punctured or
tangled. Five illustrative tubes 125 are seen within the tubular
sheath 120. Each tube 125 defines a channel through which fluid
passes. It is understood that any number of tubes 125 and
corresponding cells (such as 115, 118) may be used in the system
100.
[0100] In the intra-oral system 100, the tubes 125 are connected to
the head set 600. FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the
head set 600 of the present invention, in one embodiment. Here, the
head set 600 is shown apart from the intra-oral system 100.
[0101] The head set 600 is designed and configured to be worn on
the head (not shown) of a user. The user is preferably an
individual who has lost function of at least their hands and,
possibly, additional portions of their upper extremities. However,
the head set 600 may be worn by any individual.
[0102] The head set 600 first includes a support member 610. The
support member 610 defines an arcuate or arched member configured
to rest on the crown of an individual user's head. The support
member 610 optionally includes a central cushioning member 615.
[0103] The head set 600 also includes opposing head rests 620. In
the arrangement of FIG. 6, the head rests 600 each include pads 622
and supporting bars 624. The supporting bars 624 include pins 625.
The pins 625 slidably move through slots 626 in the arcuate support
member 610. In this way, one or both of the head rests 620 is
adjustable relative to the head set 600.
[0104] The head set 600 also includes an articulating arm 630. In
the arrangement of FIG. 6, the articulating arm 630 has a first arm
portion 632 and a second arm portion 636. The first arm portion 632
has a proximal end 634 slidably and pivotally connected to one of
the pads 622. The first arm portion 632 also has a pivot point 635
opposite the proximal end 634.
[0105] The second arm portion 636 pivots from the pivot point 635
of the first arm portion 632. Opposite the pivot point 635, the
second arm portion 636 has a distal end 638. The mouthpiece 110 is
connected to the articulating arm 630 at the distal end 638. In
addition, the tubular sheath 120 is preferably supported by the
second arm portion 636 as it extends away from the mouthpiece 110.
Optionally, an opening 633 is provided in the first arm portion 632
or the pivot point 635 for receiving the tubular sheath 120. The
second arm portion 636 may then be tubular, so as to guide the
tubular sheath to the mouthpiece 110.
[0106] The unique head set 600 of the present inventions also
includes a plurality of transducers 140. In the arrangement of FIG.
6, the transducers 140 are supported by the support member 610 in a
linear array. Each transducer 140 is in fluid communication with an
individual air tube 125.
[0107] The transducers 140 are in the nature of pressure sensors.
The transducers 140 may be, for example, ASDX pressure sensors made
by the Sensing and Control Division of Honeywell in Golden Valley,
Minn. The ASDX series of pressure sensors utilize a small internal
diaphragm for sensing fine variations in pressure. Different
sensors are offered in the series for sensing within different
pressure ranges. Such ranges include 0 to 1 psi, 0 to 5 psi, 0 to
15 psi, and 0 to 30 psi. The ASDX sensors offer a high level output
(5.0 Vdc span) that is fully calibrated and temperature compensated
with on-board Application Specific Integrated Circuitry (ASIC).
[0108] In the view of FIG. 6, the transducers 140 are resting over
an electrical circuit board 172. The electrical circuit board 172
includes a first processor 170. Preferably, the first processor 170
is a micro-controller. The micro-controller 170 may be, for
example, an Atmel.RTM. AVR.RTM. 8-bit microcontroller, useful for C
and assembly programming. As another example, the micro-controller
170 may be the Atmel.RTM. 8-bit AVR RISC-based micro-controller
that combines 16 KB ISP flash memory, 1 KB SRAM, 512B EEPROM, and
an 8-channel/10-bit A/D converter (TQFP and QFN/MLF). The device
supports a throughput of 20 MIPS at 20 MHz and operates between 2.7
and 5.5 volts.
[0109] A power switch 174 is also provided on the head set 600. The
power switch 174 is associated with the electronics of the
electrical circuit board 172. It is understood that the electronics
will include an analog-to-digital ("ADC") converter for converting
analog signals from the transducers 140 into digital signals for
the micro-controller 170. The ADC converter may be integral to the
transducers 140, or may be separate. The electronics may optionally
also include a battery (not shown).
[0110] It is preferred that the transducers 140, the electrical
circuit board 172 and the micro-controller 170 be housed within an
electronics box. An electronics box is not shown in FIG. 1 or 6 so
that components of the intra-oral system 100 may be more clearly
seen. However, an illustrative electronics box is shown at 740 in
FIG. 7, discussed below. The box 740 will have walls that protect
the transducers 140, the micro-controller 170, and the printed
circuit board 172.
[0111] The tubes 125 may connect directly from the mouthpiece 110
to the transducers 140. More preferably, the tubes 125 connect from
the mouthpiece 110 to a manifold 130. The manifold 130 is
preferably integral to the electronics box, as shown in the
arrangement at 730 of FIG. 7.
[0112] Returning to FIG. 6, the manifold 130 includes a first array
of nozzles 132 on the mouthpiece 110 side, and second array of
nozzles 142 on the transducer 140 side. The tubes 125 are received
over respective nozzles 132 external to the electronics box 740. In
order to place the tubes 125 in fluid communication with the
transducers 140, jumper tubes 145 are provided inside of the
electronics box 740 between the nozzles 142 and the transducers
140.
[0113] The manifold 130 provides fluid channels (not shown) between
the nozzles 142, 132 so that tubes 125 are in fluid communication
with tubes 145. In this way, pairs of nozzles 142, 132 enable fluid
communication through the tubes 125, 145 without necessity of the
operator opening the box 740 and exposing the delicate transducers
140 and micro-controller 170. Further, the therapist or other
operator is not required to manipulate the fragile connections
between the jumper tubes 145 and the respective transducers 140.
Preferably, the mouthpiece tubes 125 are color-coded with the array
of nozzles 132 on the mouthpiece 110 side so that the tubes 125
properly correspond to the correct jumper tubes 145 and transducers
140. Alternatively, other coding systems may be used such as
alphabetical or numeric associations, or the use of symbols.
Alternatively still, custom connectors which connect the tubes 125
to the nozzles 132 in only one orientation may be utilized.
[0114] The jumper tubes 145, mouthpiece tubes 125 and manifold 130
place the transducers 140 in fluid communication with respective
cells, such as cells 118. The manifold 130 creates five separate
tubes by joining pairs of tubes 145, 125. A proximal end of each of
the five tubes 145/125 is connected to a transducer 140, while a
distal end of each of the five tubes 145/125 is connected to a
respective cell 118 in the mouthpiece 110.
[0115] It is noted again that the tubes 125 are preferably bundled
by a tubular sheath 120. A proximal end 122 of the tubular sheath
120 begins near the manifold 130, while a distal end 124 of the
tubular sheath 120 extends towards the mouthpiece 110. In this way,
the mouthpiece 110, the tubes 125 outside of the electronics box
740, and the tubular sheath 120 are essentially one integral unit.
Each patient is supplied with his or her own mouthpiece 110 having
integrated tubes 125 and the tubular sheath 120. The only
"assembly" required by the therapist is to (i) optionally, "thread"
the tubular sheath 125 through the second arm portion 636, and (ii)
connect the tubes 125 with the external nozzles 132 on the manifold
130.
[0116] The transducers 140 are designed to convert changes in
pressure within the cells 118 to electrical signals. The electrical
signals may be raw analog voltage signals. Other examples of
electrical signals that may be used include current signals or
resistive changes. The changes in pressure within the cells 118
(and, optionally, 115) are delivered pneumatically or fluidically,
depending on the fluid used, to the transducers 140 through the
respective tubes 125. As the transducers 140 sense an increase in
pressure, a corresponding voltage or other electrical signal is
delivered through the electrical circuit board 172.
[0117] The micro-controller 170 uses operational software for
processing the electrical signals. The electrical signals are
delivered to the micro-controller 170 by means of the electrical
circuit board 172. Of interest, the micro-controller 170 resides on
and is mechanically supported by the head set 600 itself. The
electrical signals, such as voltage signals, are then interpreted
to generate a pressure profile from the cells, such as cells 118,
318 or 418. The pressure profile represents a magnitude of pressure
from within the cells. Alternatively or in addition, the pressure
profile represents a location or direction of pressure within the
cells. Alternatively or in addition, the pressure profile
represents a duration of pressure applied to the cells.
[0118] The pressure profile is based upon pressure readings from
the various cells, either individually or through some combination.
In one aspect, pressure signals are processed such that each
electrical signal represents a pressure reading from a
corresponding cell. Electrical signals from one or more
corresponding cells may be averaged over a specified period of time
to produce the pressure profile. The pressure profile has a peak
indicative of location at which pressure is being generated within
the one or more cells during the specified period of time.
[0119] The pressure profile can be used to determine direction. A
curve-fitting technique may be used to determine the peak pressure,
yielding a representation of the radial direction from 0 to 360
degrees. A windowed statistical analysis approach may also be
employed for highly accurate measurements.
[0120] The pressure profile can be used to determine the magnitude
of pressure applied by the patient. The preferred method is to use
the average value of the pressure profile across all cells (such as
cells 118, 318, or 418) to represent this magnitude in vector form.
In certain scenarios, the associated pressure value from a central
fluid cell 115 can be solely used to determine the magnitude. A
baseline or steady-state value representing no pressure being
applied to the mouthpiece 110 may be subtracted from the pressure
profile to more accurately determine the actual pressure applied by
the patient.
[0121] When a pressure profile is generated, a normalization
procedure may be used to remove differences in pressure-to-voltage
characteristics between cells. These differences can arise due to
manufacturing imperfections in the cells and/or the electronics.
Differences can also arise due to incidental variations in fluid
volume within the cells, or incidental differences in volume size
between the cells and associated tubes 125. The normalization
values can be stored on the processor 170.
[0122] As noted, it may also be desirable to pre-load the cells and
associated tubes 125 with a small amount of air pressure for
purposes of calibration. This establishes a more accurate
conversion of pressure changes to electrical signals by the
transducers 140. This may be done, for example, by inserting air
into or releasing air from the tubes 125 through a one-way valve
(not shown).
[0123] Where a battery is not used, an electrical cord 650 extends
from the head set 600. The cord 650 connects to a power pack (not
shown), that may then plug into an electrical outlet for power.
Alternatively, the electrical cord 650 has a USB connector (not
shown) for placing the processor 170 and other electronics in
electrical communication with a computer, such as a lap top (not
shown).
[0124] It is preferred that the head set 600 be able to communicate
with a second processor 150 through a wireless communication.
Accordingly, the head set 600 also includes a transmitter 160. The
transmitter 160 communicates with the second processor using an
infrared controller. Alternatively, the transmitter 160 is a
transceiver that communicates with the second processor using an RF
signal, or by using other wireless means such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi,
Zigby, or Wi-Max.
[0125] Referring back to FIG. 1, a second processor 150 is shown.
In the intra-oral system 100, the second processor 150 is a
micro-computer such as a tablet or a personal digital assistant.
The tablet may be, for example, an iPad.RTM.. The personal digital
assistant may be, for example, a Droid.RTM., a Blackberry.RTM. or
an iPhone.RTM.. The second processor 150 includes a housing 152, a
power switch 154, and a display 156. The second processor 150 also
includes a cursor 151 and a plurality of icons 158. The icons 158
are indicative of programs or applications that may be run using
the second processor 150. These programs may include text
messaging, contacts storage, calendaring, photo storage, note
keeping, and on-line game-playing. The icons 158 may also provide
access to such programs as iTunes.RTM., iPod.RTM., YouTube.RTM.,
Google Earth.RTM., Google Mail.RTM., Safari.RTM., and a host of
other well-known on-line applications. The icons 158 may also
provide access to retail-based applications such as Starbucks.RTM.,
Amazon.RTM., e-Bay.RTM., Target.RTM., and so forth.
[0126] While the second processor 150 in FIG. 1 is a tablet or a
personal digital assistant, it is understood that the second
processor 150 may alternatively be a general purpose computer, such
as a desk top computer or a laptop computer. What matters is that
the second processor 150 also include a transceiver 155. The
transceiver 155 receives wireless signals 165 from the transmitter
160 associated with the head set 600. The transceiver 155 may be,
for example, an RF receiver. In either instance, communications
software may be loaded onto the second processor 150 by the
therapist or IT representative or field representative. However,
the second processor 150 may be a specially designed or dedicated
unit that comes with the head set 600.
[0127] In operation, the system 100 allows a patient to manipulate
the cursor 151 on the display 156. This is done by the patient
moving his or her tongue across and against the bottom surface 112
of the mouthpiece 110, 310, 410. Such movement causes an increase
in pressure within selected cells 118 (or 318 or 418). The increase
in pressure causes a corresponding increase in pressure within the
tubes 125. The pressure changes, in turn, are transmitted to the
respective transducers 140 on the head set 600.
[0128] Electrical signals are generated by the transducers 140 in
response to the changes in pressure within the tubes 125. These
signals are sent to the first processor 170. The processor 170, in
turn, modulates the signals to determine tongue pressure values and
locations. The processor 170 also recognizes tongue clicks. The
process signals are then sent wirelessly to a second processor 150.
The second processor 150 delivers motion commands to a cursor 151
using display software residing on the second processor 150. The
cursor 151 is then caused to be moved across the display 156.
Manipulation of the cursor allows the user to navigate programs and
applications 158 associated with the second processor 150.
Alternatively or in addition, the user may cause an external
appliance to change its state.
[0129] The head set 600 and tubular sheath 120 present one
arrangement for allowing a user to pneumatically send signals to a
cursor 151. Other arrangements may be used though.
[0130] FIG. 7 is an enlarged perspective view of a tube bundle 720
provided between a mouthpiece and electronics. The tube bundle 720
provides an alternative to the tube bundle 500 of FIG. 5. Here, the
tube bundle 720 is in the form of a ribbon cable. The tube bundle
720 is ideally suited for bundling air tubes 125 used with the
mouthpieces 310 and 410. In the arrangement of FIG. 7, a mouthpiece
is shown in perspective view. The illustrative mouthpiece is the
mouthpiece 410 of FIG. 4.
[0131] The tube bundle 720 has a proximal end 722 and a distal end
724. In the view of FIG. 7, each end 722, 724 is loose. This means
that individual air tubes 125 are exposed at the opposing ends 722,
724 of the tube bundle 720. The tube bundle 720 is beneficially
designed to be a stand-alone part that may be selectively connected
and un-connected to an electronics box 740 at the proximal end 722,
and to the mouthpiece 410 at the distal end 724.
[0132] The mouthpiece 410 is shown in perspective view. The distal
end 420 and the transition section 430 of the mouthpiece 410 are
seen. In addition, channels 424 at the distal end 420 are visible.
The channels 424 are dimensioned to slideably receive the fluid
tubes 125 at the distal end 724 of the tube bundle 420.
[0133] FIG. 7 also shows an illustrative electronics box 740. The
electronics box 740 is designed to house components of the head set
600, including the transducers 140, the jumper tubes 145, the
electrical circuit board 172, the micro-controller (or first
processor) 170, and the transmitter 160. A wall of the electronics
box 740 serves as a manifold 730. The manifold 730 includes a
plurality of nozzles 732. The manifold 730 further includes nozzles
(not seen) on the transducer side, such as nozzles 142 from FIG. 6.
The nozzles 142 place the transducers 140 in fluid communication
with the air tubes 125 via jumper tubes 145 (seen in FIG. 1).
[0134] The electronics box 740 has a bottom surface 734. The bottom
surface 734 includes a sleeve 710. The sleeve 710 is configured to
receive the support member 610 from the head set 600. Cushions,
seen at 615 in FIG. 6, may reside below the sleeve 710 to provide
padding over the crown of a user's head.
[0135] The mouthpiece 410, the air tubes 125, the air tube bundle
720, and the electronics box 740 seen in FIG. 7 offer one
configuration of parts of the intra-oral system 100. The intra-oral
system 100 allows a user to manipulate a cursor 151 on a
display.
[0136] FIGS. 8A through 8C present various arrangements for
displays from the system of FIG. 1. FIGS. 8A through 8C also
demonstrate methods for using the head set 600 and attached
mouthpiece (such as mouthpiece 110).
[0137] First, FIG. 8A demonstrates how the head set 600 and
attached mouthpiece may be used for moving a mechanical object, in
one embodiment. FIG. 8A specifically shows a display 800A. In this
system, a cursor is shown at 805. The cursor 805 is used to move an
object by the user through lingual manipulation in accordance with
the pressure profile. As the user applies pressure to the various
air cells in the bulb defining the mouthpiece, the cursor 805 is
moved across the display 800A. Thus, the mouthpiece becomes a
"mouth mouse."
[0138] The display 800A is arranged for the purpose of allowing the
user to move an external object. In this instance, the individual
may use the system 100 to operate a wheelchair. Alternatively, the
individual may use the system 100 to manipulate the position of a
bed or to open or close a door.
[0139] The display 800A may be opened by clicking on an application
158 from display 156 (shown in FIG. 1). Alternatively, the display
800A may be a dedicated display on a screen that does not change
except when being powered up or down. The display 800A includes
directional keys. In this arrangement, the directional keys are
used to move a wheelchair (not shown). The illustrative directional
keys represent forward 810F and reverse 810R arrows. Actuation of
these arrows 810F, 810R causes the wheelchair (or other object) to
move forward or backward. The directional keys also represent
clockwise 815F and counter-clockwise 815R arrows. Actuation of
these arrows 815F, 815R causes the wheelchair to rotate clockwise
or counter-clockwise, respectively.
[0140] The keys 810F, 810R, 815F, 815R are activated by using the
cursor 805. In one aspect, a symbol 810F, 810R, 815F, or 815R is
activated by the user positioning the cursor 805 over the selected
symbol 810F, 810R, 815F, 815R, and then double-clicking on the
center cell 115 or a center of the mouthpiece 310 or 410. In
another aspect, a symbol 810F, 810R, 815F, or 815R is activated by
the user positioning the cursor 805 over the selected symbol 810F,
810R, 815F, 815R, and then pressing against the center cell 115 for
a designated period of time at a certain level of pressure. In the
instance where the center cell 115 is "dead" or where there is no
center cell, a symbol 810F, 810R, 815F, or 815R may be activated by
the user positioning the cursor 805 over the selected symbol 810F,
810R, 815F, 815R, and then pressing the center of the mouthpiece
110, 310, or 410 for a designated period of time at a certain level
of pressure.
[0141] It is understood that the idea of "clicking" as presented
herein is not the traditional action taken by a user who is
operating a computer. The individual who has functional use of his
or her hands is able to double-press a touch pad or double-click a
so-called mouse in order to access a link or make an on-screen
selection. In the present application, the user is using his or her
tongue. The methods herein are not limited as to how "clicking" is
recognized by the first processor. Preferably, the first processor
recognizes a selection or "clicking" when the user applies a
pre-selected number of pressure applications, i.e., two, against a
designated portion of the mouthpiece in quick succession, or
double-clicks and holds the pressure to maintain actuation.
[0142] The display 800A of FIG. 8A is ideally supported on the
individual's wheelchair. For example, the display 800A will be
mounted on an arm rest (not shown). At the same time, the
mouthpiece 110 is part of the head set 600 so that the mouthpiece
110 is at all times in proximity to the user's mouth. In this way,
the individual may selectively insert the mouthpiece 110 into their
mouth for movement of the wheelchair (or other object).
[0143] It is understood in this application that the second
processor 150 will be in electrical communication with a motor or
servo-system on the wheelchair. In this way, the user's
instructions delivered by moving the cursor 805 on the screen 800A
cause the wheelchair to respond. Of course, the display 800A may be
used to control appliances other than a wheelchair. For example,
symbols 810F, 810R, 815F, 815R may be used to adjust a
mechanically-controlled bed, open and close a door, and the
like.
[0144] The system 100 may alternatively be used by a
physically-limited individual to operate other apparatus' besides a
mechanical appliance. Such apparatus' may include electrical
appliances such as a television, a light fixture, a radio, or a
thermostat.
[0145] FIG. 8B presents a display 800B for the system 100, in an
alternate embodiment. A cursor is again shown at 805. The cursor
805 is used to change the status of an electrical appliance by the
user through lingual manipulation in accordance with the pressure
profile. The display 800B shows arrow 822 for turning on a
television, and arrow 824 for turning off a television. The display
800B also shows carrots 827 for adjusting the volume of the
television, and carrots 729 for changing the channel.
[0146] The display 800B also shows bar 840(1) for turning a first
light fixture on and off, and bar 840(2) for turning a second light
fixture on and off. The bar configuration 840(1) and 840(2) may
also serve as a rheostat, thereby adjusting the brightness of a
light fixture. The display 800B also shows arrow 832 for opening a
door, and arrow 834 for closing the door. This would be done
through a servo-motor.
[0147] It is understood that displays 800A and 800B are merely
illustrative. Other appliances may be controlled through the use of
a cursor and symbols. The user may then press or double-click on
the center air cell 115 of the mouthpiece 110 or in the center of a
mouthpiece such as mouthpieces 310, 410 to turn an object on or off
or to adjust its status. A wireless signal is then sent from the
transceiver 155 to the appliance using infrared technology,
Bluetooth technology or other wireless technology that may be known
to those of ordinary skill in the art.
[0148] FIG. 8C presents a display 800C for the intra-oral system
100, in yet an alternate embodiment. In this display 800C, a cursor
is again shown at 805. The illustrative cursor 805 is an arrow. The
cursor 805 is moved across the display 800C in accordance with the
pressure profile. In this embodiment, the display 800C includes a
keyboard 850. The keyboard 850 and other symbols in the display
800C are used to allow the individual to type text messages, update
contacts, operate a web browser, or interface with a website using
just his or her mouth.
[0149] The display 800C includes symbols 852. These symbols 852 may
be used, for example, to open and close a door (not shown) or to
select an appliance to be controlled. Arrow keys 854, 856 are also
provided on the display 800C. The user may manipulate a selected
electrical appliance by double-clicking on an arrow key 854, 856.
For example, a light fixture may be brightened or dimmed by
double-clicking on the arrow keys 854, 856. Alternatively, the
channel of a television or radio may be changed by double-clicking
on the arrow keys 854, 856. Separate arrow keys (not shown) may be
used to then adjust the volume.
[0150] In lieu of double-clicking, a symbol 852 or an arrow key
854, 856, a function may be selected or activated by the user
positioning the cursor 805 over the selected symbol 852 or arrow
854, 856, and then pressing against the center cell 115 for a
designated period of time at a certain level of pressure. In the
instance where the center cell 115 is "dead" or there is no center
cell, a selected symbol 852 or key 854, 856 may be activated by the
user positioning the cursor 805 over the selected symbol 852 or
arrow key 854, 856, and then pressing against a designated radial
cell 118, 318, 418 or in the centerpoint of the mouthpiece 110,
310, 410 for a designated period of time at a certain level of
pressure.
[0151] A signal is sent from the system 100 to the electrical
apparatus. For example, a wireless signal may be sent from
transceiver 155 to the appliance. This signal is preferably a
wireless signal such as through infrared technology, Bluetooth
technology or other wireless technology that may be known to those
of ordinary skill in the art.
[0152] The keyboard 850 allows the physically-limited individual to
type in a text message or to send an e-mail message to another
individual. In addition, the keyboard 850 allows the
physically-limited individual to update contacts or to navigate web
sites. The individual uses the cursor 805 to select alpha-numeric
keys to be "pressed." Pressing means double-clicking or otherwise
applying pressure to a selected air or fluid cell in the mouthpiece
110, 310, 410. By selecting and "pressing" a series of digital keys
on the keyboard 850, text may be "typed."
[0153] It is preferred that a visualization screen 858 be provided
on the display 800C. The visualization screen 858 allows the user
to see what text is being typed. Once a message is composed or a
query is presented, the message or query may be "sent" by pressing
a return arrow 855. In this arrangement, the second processor 150
has a wired or wireless internet connection for delivering the
message through a communications network.
[0154] A method 900 for moving a cursor on a display using lingual
manipulation is also provided herein. FIGS. 9A and 9B present a
flow chart, showing steps for generally performing the method 900,
in one embodiment.
[0155] The method 900 first includes providing a head set. This is
shown at Box 910 of FIG. 9A. The head set is generally in
accordance with the head set 600 described above, in its various
embodiments. Generally, the head set will have a head piece and
opposing head rests. The head set will also have an articulating
arm extending from the head piece.
[0156] The method 900 further includes providing a mouthpiece. This
is seen at Box 920. The mouthpiece is part of the head set, and
serves as a "mouth mouse." The mouthpiece defines an elastomeric
bulb and is connected proximate a distal end of the articulating
arm.
[0157] In one aspect, the mouthpiece comprises at least three outer
cells disposed radially around a centerpoint. The centerpoint may
define a separate cell, or it may be a "dead" area. Alternatively,
the mouthpiece has four, five, or more cells disposed radially
around the bulb in either an eccentric or a concentric design. The
cells are divided and sealed by walls.
[0158] The mouthpiece has a plurality of fluid-containing cells.
The fluid may be a compressible fluid, or gas. The compressible
fluid may be air or another non-toxic gas. Alternatively, the fluid
may be a substantially non-compressible fluid, such as water or
other non-toxic liquid. A combination of compressible and
non-compressible fluids may also be employed. In any aspect, the
fluid-containing cells are embedded into the mouthpiece for
receiving pressure applied by the tongue of an individual.
[0159] The head set will also include a plurality of tubes. Each
tube has a proximal end and a distal end, with the distal end of
each of the tubes being in substantially sealed fluid communication
with a corresponding cell of the mouthpiece. In one aspect, each of
the tubes comprises more than one tubular body operatively
connected to form a single, pneumatically or fluidically sealed
channel. In this instance, a manifold may be used to provide a
"quick-connect" between sets of tubes.
[0160] Preferably, each of the plurality of tubes is an air tube
that resides substantially at ambient pressure. Alternatively, each
of the plurality of tubes may be preloaded at a pressure of about
15 psi to 25 psi. This creates desirable additional resistance for
stronger users. It also provides flexibility for the operator in
"tuning" the system so that pressure readings are accurate. The
tubes preferably have an inner diameter of about 0.05 inches to 0.5
inches. However, other dimensions may be employed.
[0161] The head set also includes a plurality of transducers. Each
transducer is preferably a pressure sensor having a diaphragm that
is sensitive to changes in pressure within a corresponding tube.
The transducers convert changes in pressure within the cells to
voltage or other electrical signals. The head set further includes
a first processor. The first processor receives the voltage (or
other raw electrical) signals from the transducers and processes
them.
[0162] The method 900 also comprises placing each of the plurality
of tubes in fluid communication with a corresponding transducer.
This is provided at Box 930. More specifically, each transducer is
in sealed fluid communication with the proximal end of a
corresponding tube. The changes in pressure within the cells are
delivered pneumatically or fluidically to the transducers through
the respective tubes.
[0163] Of interest in the method 900, the transducers are
mechanically supported by the head rest. Preferably, each
transducer resides within an electronics box, such as box 730 of
FIG. 7. In this instance, the electronics box will include a
manifold that allows air tubes to be connected to nozzles external
to the electronics box for providing the needed fluid communication
with the transducers.
[0164] The method 900 also includes the step of providing a second
processor. This is shown in Box 940. The second processor is in
electrical communication with the first processor via a wireless
transceiver. The second processor may be a micro-computer such as a
personal digital assistant or a tablet. Alternatively, the second
processor may be a part of a laptop computer or a desktop
computer.
[0165] The second processor is in operative electrical
communication with a display. The display has a visual output that
presents a cursor.
[0166] The method 900 also includes the step of generating a
pressure profile from the cells. This step is provided in Box 950
of FIG. 9B. The pressure profile is generated by the first
processor in response to the voltage or other electrical signals
received from the transducers. The signals are modulated by the
first processor to generate a pressure profile from the cells.
Preferably, the pressure profile represents a magnitude of pressure
within the cells, a direction of pressure, a duration of pressure,
or combinations thereof.
[0167] The pressure profile is based upon pressure readings from
the various cells. In one aspect, pressure signals are processed
such that each voltage signal represents an air pressure reading
from a corresponding air cell. Voltage signals from one or more
corresponding transducers are averaged over a specified period of
time to produce the pressure profile. The pressure profile has a
peak indicative of location at which pressure is being generated
within the one or more cells during the specified period of
time.
[0168] The first processor sends signals based on pressure profiles
to the second processor. The signals are wireless signals that are
sent to the transceiver of the second processor. Visualization
software is pre-loaded onto the second processor unit to enable the
user to see a cursor being moved on the display. The second
processor interprets the command signals from the first processor,
and is able to move a cursor on a display.
[0169] The method 900 further includes the step of causing the
cursor on the display of the second processor to move. This is
provided at Box 960. The cursor is moved by means of lingual
manipulation of the mouthpiece. More specifically, the user applies
pressure to the various cells in the mouthpiece to ultimately cause
translation of the cursor on the display.
[0170] In one aspect, the cursor is moved over a symbol that
represents a mechanical device to be activated or an electrical
appliance to be changed. The symbol on the display may be of any
type. For example, the symbol may be a picture of an apparatus or
appliance. Alternatively, the symbol may be one or more
alphanumeric characters, an arrow indicating direction, or a
geometric figure.
[0171] In order to move a cursor, a magnitude of each voltage
signal is recorded as part of the pressure profile over the
specified period of time. The object is then caused to be moved on
the display in the direction indicated by the pressure profile,
optionally at a velocity that corresponds to the magnitude of the
voltage signals. In another aspect, an application of pressure by a
user on the centerpoint for a specified period of time and at a
specified magnitude causes a location of the object to be reset to
a beginning point on the display. Alternatively, an application of
pressure by a user on a designated outer cell for a specified
period of time and at a specified magnitude causes a location of
the object to be moved to a corresponding location on the
display.
[0172] Optionally, the method 900 includes selecting a symbol to
actuate a mechanical device or an electrical appliance. This is
shown at Box 970A. Alternatively, a series of symbols is selected
in order to compose a textual message. This is shown at Box
970B.
[0173] To select a symbol, the cells within the mouthpiece may be
configured to respond to double-clicking by the user. This means
that the user moves his or her tongue against a particular cell or
area of the mouthpiece twice within a designated period of time
recognized by the processor. For example, double-clicking of
application of pressure by a user on a centerpoint for a specified
period of time and at a specified magnitude may cause actuation of
a mechanical device or an electrical appliance, as discussed above.
Alternatively, the user may simply hold pressure against the
centerpoint for a specified longer period of time and at a
specified magnitude over a symbol on the display. An activation
signal is then sent to the appliance. This is provided at Box
975A.
[0174] As an additional step to Box 970B, the user may send the
textual message through a wireless communications network. This is
shown at Box 975B. This sending step may be done by the user
"clicking" on a return key or other symbol. The textual message may
be a text message, an e-mail, or a web-based query.
[0175] As can be seen, a unique head set is offered that allows an
individual to move a cursor or to change the state of an appliance
through lingual manipulation of a mouthpiece. The inventions allow
a user who has limited or no functional use of his or her upper
extremities to use a "mouth mouse." It is understood that the
configurations of the mouthpiece, the head set, and the
articulating arm provided herein are merely illustrative. Other
designs and arrangements for a head set may be employed. For
example, the head set may be in the form of a hat, meaning that it
includes a covering for the crown of the user's head. This may be
beneficial in providing support for the manifold, for the
electrical circuit board, and for the tubes as they wrap around
behind the head set. However, what is important is that the head
set be designed to allow the mouthpiece to reach the mouth of the
user.
[0176] In addition, other designs for a mouthpiece may be employed.
For example, the mouthpiece may only have, for instance, two cells
placed in side-by-side relation. In another arrangement, the
mouthpiece does not use cells, tubes and pressure sensors, but
instead operates on a system where electrical signals are sent
directly from the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece may be arranged in a
matrix, with pressure sensors being embedded directly into the
mouthpiece within cells defined by the matrix. The pressure sensors
may be tactile pressure sensors that detect pressure applied by the
patient's tongue as the patient moves his or her tongue across the
bottom surface of the bulb. The sensor may measure duration of
pressure, direction of pressure, magnitude of pressure, or
combinations thereof, at various cell locations.
[0177] Additional sensing means may be incorporated into each cell
in order to sense direction of pressure. In addition, a clock may
be associated with each signature signal to measure duration of a
detected signal.
[0178] While it will be apparent that the inventions herein
described are well calculated to achieve the benefits and
advantages set forth above, it will be appreciated that the
inventions are susceptible to modification, variation and change
without departing from the spirit thereof.
* * * * *