U.S. patent application number 13/766756 was filed with the patent office on 2013-10-10 for wearable human physiological and environmental data sensors and reporting system therefor.
The applicant listed for this patent is BODYMEDIA, INC.. Invention is credited to Francine Gemperle, Christopher Kasabach, John M. Stivoric.
Application Number | 20130267789 13/766756 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23662948 |
Filed Date | 2013-10-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130267789 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stivoric; John M. ; et
al. |
October 10, 2013 |
WEARABLE HUMAN PHYSIOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL DATA SENSORS AND
REPORTING SYSTEM THEREFOR
Abstract
A method and apparatus is provided to detect the physiological
and environmental status of an individual. The apparatus comprises
a pod which is worn within a proximity zone of the body such that
the mobility and flexibility of the body are not deleteriously
affected by the presence of the apparatus. The system permits the
dynamic monitoring of human physiological and environmental status
data without substantial interference in human motion and
flexibility. Sensors and processors are mounted within said
pod.
Inventors: |
Stivoric; John M.;
(Pittsburgh, PA) ; Gemperle; Francine;
(Pittsburgh, PA) ; Kasabach; Christopher;
(Pittsburgh, PA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BODYMEDIA, INC. |
Pittsburgh |
PA |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
23662948 |
Appl. No.: |
13/766756 |
Filed: |
February 13, 2013 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11481147 |
Jul 5, 2006 |
8403845 |
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13766756 |
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|
10313255 |
Dec 6, 2002 |
7153262 |
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11481147 |
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09419600 |
Oct 18, 1999 |
6527711 |
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10313255 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/300 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B 5/11 20130101; A61B
2560/0462 20130101; A61B 5/0476 20130101; A61B 5/6824 20130101;
A61B 5/6829 20130101; A61B 5/6814 20130101; A61B 5/021 20130101;
G01K 13/002 20130101; A61B 2560/04 20130101; A61B 2562/164
20130101; A61B 5/024 20130101; A61B 5/7455 20130101; A61B 5/441
20130101; Y10S 128/905 20130101; A61B 5/0002 20130101; A61B 5/6828
20130101; G06F 3/011 20130101; A61B 5/08 20130101; A61B 5/6822
20130101; A61B 5/6804 20130101; A61B 5/01 20130101; Y10S 128/92
20130101; A61B 5/6823 20130101; A61B 5/6831 20130101; A61B 5/0205
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
600/300 |
International
Class: |
A61B 5/00 20060101
A61B005/00 |
Claims
1-10. (canceled)
11. A method of determining the placement of a wearable human
physiological status monitor on the body of a wearer comprising the
steps of: determining an area of the body that has a low size
variance across a set of individuals; determining whether said area
has low movement and flexibility; determining a proximate space
around said human body that is perceptually considered part of the
body by the individual; and providing a pod having a physiological
sensor therein to be worn on said area within said proximate
space.
12. A method according to claim 11, wherein said area comprises the
cranial area, collar area, the tricep, the forearm, the rib cage,
the waist, the hip, the thigh, the shin, and the top of the foot
area.
13. A method according to claim 11, wherein said proximate space is
between 0 and 5 inches from the body.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This application is a continuation of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/481,147, filed Jul. 5, 2006. U.S.
application Ser. No. 481,147 is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/313,255 filed Dec. 6, 2002, now U.S. Pat.
No. 7,153,262 issued Dec. 26, 2006, which is a continuation of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/419,600 filed Oct. 18, 1999, which
issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,527,711, on Mar. 3, 2003, each of which
are incorporated by reference in their entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to computing hardware and
sensor arrays which are suitable for affixation to the human body.
More specifically, the invention relates to sensors and computing
apparatus which are adapted to detect certain human physiological
data along with environmental data and transmit such data, and
which are affixed to the human body in such a manner so as not to
interfere with normal body flexibility or movement.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Monitoring of human physiological status data has received a
high and growing level of interest in a number of medical,
industrial, scientific and recreational disciplines. In certain
circumstances where static data is sufficient for determining the
status of a particular aspect of the human body, particularized
monitoring sensors are applied to the appropriate portion of the
body and data is collected for a short period of time. In these
types of applications, the human subject may be in a static
position, such as when blood pressure is measured, or actively
engaged in movement, such as during a cardiac stress test. In
either instance, a sensor is temporarily affixed to the body,
either through a restraining device, friction or an adhesive
material.
[0006] In the many applications, however, monitoring is limited to
these short periods of time by limitations associated with the
monitoring devices and the sensors themselves. Monitoring human
physiological data on an extended, real-time basis presents many
advantages to scientific researchers, medical professionals and
individuals with a high level of interest in their own
physiological condition.
[0007] A number of devices have been disclosed which attempt to
enhance the portability and reduce the invasiveness of
physiological sensors and the monitoring apparatus associated
therewith. Furthermore, considerable development has been made in
the reduction in size of computing devices and other electronic
apparatus for use in close association with the human body.
[0008] Bornn, U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,793, issued Oct. 11, 1994,
discloses a stretchable harness-like apparatus which enables
physiological parameters of a patient to be measured while he or
she is ambulatory or stationary. What is disclosed is a harness
which encircles the torso and chest area of a patient. A series of
circumferential straps are placed around the torso area with
elongated shoulder supports supporting the circumferential bands
from front to back over the shoulders. The harness-like apparatus
includes certain sensors. The apparatus is specifically directed
towards maintaining mobility and comfort while maintaining accuracy
of measurement. A soft, resilient material is utilized to receive
and restrain the encased sensors. A major shortcoming of dynamic
body monitoring is identified in the reference which describes the
utilization of resilient sensor supports under tension which
creates monitoring artifacts caused by the relative movement of the
sensors with respect to the patient's skin. The reference also
identifies the utilization of electronic transmission means for
communicating the collected data to external monitoring equipment.
The Bornn device utilizes a uniform modulus of elasticity in the
restraining bands which are selected of a material having such
modulus of elasticity close to that of skin to maintain the sensors
in a uniform position.
[0009] Janik, U.S. Pat. No. 5,285,398, issued Feb. 8, 1994,
discloses a flexible, wearable computer, in the form of a belt,
comprising a combination of microprocessor memory modules, power
supply, signal relaying circuits, and a flexible, non-stretchable
member with a protective covering device. In contrast to the Bornn
reference, this device is intended to provide an entire wearable
computer apparatus which is comfortable for the user to wear
affixed to his or her body. The device incorporates a series of
electrical apparatus divided into a plurality of small modules
which are electrically connected along a non-resilient belt.
[0010] Kese, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,884,198, issued Mar. 16, 1999,
discloses a portable radio which has its components distributed
about a user's body, utilizing the body as a vehicle to carry the
radio. This portable communication device was developed to overcome
drawbacks associated with conventional portable radios through the
distribution of the radio components and weight on a user's body in
a more uniform manner.
[0011] Carroll, U.S. Pat. No. 5,555,490, issued Sep. 10, 1996,
discloses a wearable support and interconnection structure for a
modular micro computer system having a plurality of micro computer
cards housed in a plurality of pockets linked by flexible circuitry
and connectors within wearable garment. The reference discloses a
vest-like apparatus having a series of electronic modules
distributed thereacross. The garment is intended to be portable and
lightweight while maintaining a level of functionality to allow the
wearer to simultaneously operate the computer while engaged in a
mobile activity.
[0012] Newman, et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,244, issued Apr. 19,
1994, discloses a compact, self-contained portable computing
apparatus which is completely supported by a user for hands-free
retrieval and display of information for the user. The reference
discloses a series of electronic components mounted upon a belt
which is worn by the user together with a miniature video display
device positioned proximate to the user's eye. A microphone is
utilized to allow the user to execute commands without the
utilization of his or her hands.
[0013] A significant shortcoming of the prior art devices, however,
is that while they provide a lightweight and mobile computing or
monitoring platform, they nevertheless severely restrict the
flexibility and motion of the user. None of the prior art
references disclose a specific location or series of locations
proximate to the human body which would minimize or eliminate the
interference of the body-mounted computer or sensor mechanism with
normal or athletic bodily function and flexibility.
[0014] What is lacking in the art, therefore, is a sensor array and
computing apparatus which is wearable on the human body in such a
manner and placement that the user's motion and flexibility are not
compromised.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0015] An apparatus is disclosed which is adapted to specifically
provide the ability to mount both sensors and computing apparatus
on the human body while maintaining said sensors and apparatus
within a proximity zone of the body such that the mobility and
flexibility of the body are not deleteriously affected by the
presence of the apparatus. The device is primarily comprised of a
series of pads having rigid and flexible sections within which the
sensors and computing apparatus may be housed. These pods are
typically comprised of a rigid material having a minimum hardness
or rigidity mounted in conjunction with certain more flexible
sections to allow relative movement of the rigid material sections
with respect to each other. The flexible material is further
utilized to conform said rigid sections to certain pre-specified
portions of the human body although it is to be specifically noted
that under certain circumstances, the entire pod embodiment can be
constructed of the flexible material. The pods are particularly
sized and shaped to minimize interference with human motion and
flexibility, and are mounted in certain distinct, pre-selected
locations on the human body corresponding to the pre-specified
shapes. It is to be specifically noted that each of the shapes
disclosed herein comprises a maximum size and shape for each
particular location. In any specific application, the minimization
of the size and shape of any sensor or computing apparatus together
with its rigid housing would be considered desirable to minimize
interference with human flexion and motion.
[0016] The size, shape and location of each of the pod housings are
specifically directed to not only certain locations of minimum
interference when mounted upon the human body, but also for the
specific intention of mounting sensors therein for the detection of
certain human physiological status data. It is specifically
contemplated that within at least one of the pod locations there
will be mounted at least one specific sensor for contact with or
proximate location near the human body for detection of
physiological status data including but not limited to,
temperature, galvanic skin response, pulse, blood pressure,
respiration, activity, and certain electrical currents associated
with electrocardiogram and electroencephalograph measurements.
[0017] The system is specifically intended to permit the mounting
of one or more sensor devices, as well as electronic computing
apparatus, to permit the dynamic monitoring of human physiological
status data without substantial interference in human motion and
flexibility. The systems are directed towards use in both medical
care and scientific research. It is also contemplated that the
system might be applied for the evaluation of human fitness,
conditioning and the further development of ubiquitous, sympathetic
and pervasive wearable computing apparatus. It is specifically
intended that the sensors be placed within the specified locations
defined by both a location determined by medical and scientific
knowledge and the availability of a sensor pod defined according to
the specification herein.
[0018] In a first embodiment of the system as a whole, one or more
sensors are placed within the various pod locations as defined
herein. A processor is mounted within the same pod location or an
adjacent pod location, or said processor may be electrically
connected to said sensor through a flexible material. Memory and
storage means may also be provided as necessary to facilitate the
processing function. Data from one or more sensors is acquired and
processed according to pre-selected algorithms well known to those
skilled in the art. It is specifically contemplated that this
processing function may be performed by a processing means
contained within the pods mounted upon the human body or by
external monitoring hardware and software, as will be described
herein. The first embodiment, as described, would process said data
onboard the human body and transmit that data in a processed state
to an external monitor through certain wire-based or wireless
technologies as are well known to those skilled in the art. Such
wireless technologies would include radio frequency, infrared
transmission, audio and magnetic induction. It is specifically
contemplated that said wireless technologies would include both
open channel radio frequency transmission as well as transmissions
which utilize telecommunications technologies, such as wireless
telephoning and paging systems. In this first embodiment, there is
optionally provided a graphical, visual, audible, tactile or haptic
output means so that certain data might be displayed or otherwise
communicated instantaneously to the wearer in the form of a
numerical output or a series of indicator lights.
[0019] In a second embodiment, human physiological status data is
merely compiled within the apparatus mounted upon the human body
and is transmitted, in an unprocessed state, to an external
monitoring means. In this embodiment, no onboard output or display
means is contemplated.
[0020] It is further specifically contemplated that the system, as
described herein, forms a subset of a larger human physiological
status data recording and reporting system for which the material
described herein forms the data acquisition and reporting segment.
The rigid and flexible pods described herein are defined by a
proximate space adjacent the human body at certain predefined
locations where interaction with human motion and flexibility are
minimized. The wearability of the sensor and hardware apparatus is
specifically defined as the interaction between the human body and
the wearable objects. The wearable pods described herein comprise
three-dimensional spaces on the body best suited for comfortable
and unobtrusive wearability by design. The requirements of
wearability further defines the use of the human body as a support
environment for the various products and sensors that will be
mounted thereupon. It is intended that these wearable forms be
universally applicable to a high percentage of the wearing
population. While it would be considered impossible to design a set
of standard forms which would be applicable to 100% of the male and
female population, given the wide disparity of the sample set, the
specific design of the forms disclosed is intended to apply from
the fifth to the ninety-fifth percentile of the population.
[0021] There are thirteen primary factors which define the design
of the wearable products. These are:
[0022] 1. Placement;
[0023] 2. Definition of the shape of the object;
[0024] 3. The dynamic structure of the object relating to human
movement in proximity thereto;
[0025] 4. Human perception of the space proximate to the body;
[0026] 5. Sizing as applied to the target group of body sizes;
[0027] 6. Attachment means to the body;
[0028] 7. Containment of objects within the defined space;
[0029] 8. Weight;
[0030] 9. Accessibility to human interaction;
[0031] 10. Sensory interaction with the body;
[0032] 11. Thermal interaction with the body;
[0033] 12. Aesthetics;
[0034] 13. Long-term effects on usability and wearability.
[0035] The criteria used for determining the placement of the forms
on the human body are:
[0036] 1. Areas that have relatively small size variance across
adults;
[0037] 2. Areas that have low movement and flexibility, even when
the body is in motion; and
[0038] 3. Areas that maximize available surface area or minimize
surface irregularities.
[0039] The general areas determined to be the most unobtrusive are
the cranial area, collar area, the tricep area, the forearm area,
the rib cage area, the waist and hip area, the thigh area, the shin
area and the top of the foot area.
[0040] With respect to the form of the various proximity spaces in
the containment pods placed therein, a core concept includes
forming a concavity on the inside surface of the material to accept
a generally convex exterior surface of the human body. Exterior
surfaces of the pods are generally convex to deflect objects and
avoid bumps and snags. Furthermore, tapering and radiusing of the
sides, edges and corners creates safe, soft and stable forms. In
certain circumstances, chamfering and scalloping of surfaces are
utilized to minimize specific interaction with proximate body parts
or physical objects and facilitate extended contact upon
motion.
[0041] Human movement provides a significant constraint in terms of
the placement and shaping of the forms defined herein. Defining the
shapes with respect to these movements can be accomplished in one
of two ways: (1) by designing around the more active areas of the
joints, or (2) by creating spaces, such as the aforementioned
chamfering or scalloping, into which certain body parts can
move.
[0042] It is well known to those skilled in the art that the brain
perceives an aura or proximate space around the body that should be
considered the intimate space that is perceptually considered part
of the body by the brain. This is generally considered to be
between 0'' and 5'' from the majority of the body space. The
particular challenge in defining the containment forms is the
variability of size, weight, and muscle mass of human physique.
Certain static anthropometric data is utilized to achieve near
universal application of forms which are comprised of rigid and
flexible sections. Flexible areas are generally utilized to join
certain solid forms or extend exterior to the solid forms in
wing-like protrusions. These wing-like protrusions may also
incorporate a transition to attachment means for temporarily
affixing the sensors and other apparatus to the body. It is
specifically contemplated that in many applications, wrapping the
form around the body, rather than using single point fastening
systems such as clips or shoulder straps, is preferred. While not
specifically disclosed, attachment systems are required for
utility, which must accommodate various physical sizes and shapes
designed for size variations. This is typically obtained in two
ways: the first being adjustability, such as straps with buckles;
the second is through the use of standardized sizing systems. The
latter has been adopted in the preferred embodiment design to the
extent that the rigid pods are generally standardized. In each
embodiment, conventional resilient fabrics may be utilized to affix
the pods to the body. Alternatively, and preferably, the pods may
be incorporated into a garment.
[0043] These and other objectives, features and advantages of the
present invention will be more readily understood upon
consideration of the following detailed description of the
preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] All drawings identified herein are labeled for
directionality and physical reference as applied to the human body
itself. E.g., references to "right" refer to the right-hand side of
the wearer.
[0045] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a collar embodiment of a pod.
[0046] FIG. 2A is a side elevational view of a first pod as
illustrated in FIG. 1.
[0047] FIG. 2B is a plan view of the same pod.
[0048] FIG. 3A is a plan view of a second pod as illustrated in
FIG. 1. FIG. 3B is a side elevational view of the same pod.
[0049] FIG. 4 is a plan view of a tricep pod embodiment.
[0050] FIG. 5A is a plan view of the pod section illustrated in
FIG. 4. FIG. 5B is a side elevational view of the same pod.
[0051] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the leftmost half of a rib cage
embodiment of a pod set.
[0052] FIG. 7A is a plan view of a first pod mounted upon a
rightmost half of an upper torso or rib cage pod set. FIG. 7B is a
side elevational view of the same first pod. FIG. 7C is a plan view
of a second pod of the same rightmost pod set. FIG. 7D is a side
elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 7C.
[0053] FIG. 8A is a plan view of a third pod of said rightmost half
of a rib cage pod set. FIG. 8B is a side elevational view of the
pod shown in FIG. 8A. FIG. 8C is a plan view of a fourth pod of the
same pod set. FIG. 8D is a side elevational view of the pod shown
in FIG. 8C. FIG. 8E is a plan view of a fifth pod of the same pod
set. FIG. 8F is a side elevational view of the pod shown in FIG.
8E.
[0054] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the leftmost half of a lower
torso-mounted pod set.
[0055] FIG. 10A is a plan view of a first pod of a leftmost half of
a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 10B is a first side elevational view
of the pod illustrated in FIG. 10A. FIG. 10C is a second side
elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 10A.
[0056] FIG. 11A is a plan view of a second pod of a leftmost half
of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 11B is a first side elevational
view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 11A. FIG. 11C is a second side
elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 11A.
[0057] FIG. 12A is a plan view of a third pod of a leftmost half of
a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 12B is a first side elevational view
of the pod illustrated in FIG. 12A. FIG. 12C is a second side
elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 12A.
[0058] FIG. 13A is a plan view of a fourth pod of a leftmost half
of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 13B is a first side elevational
view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 13A. FIG. 13C is a second side
elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 13A.
[0059] FIG. 14A is a plan view of a fifth pod of a leftmost half of
a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 14B is a side elevational view of the
pod illustrated in FIG. 14A.
[0060] FIG. 15A is a plan view of the pod set of a forearm-mounted
sensor apparatus. FIG. 15B is a side elevational view of the pod
shown in FIG. 15A.
[0061] FIG. 16 is a plan view of a thigh-mounted embodiment of a
pod.
[0062] FIG. 17A is a plan view of the rigid pod section of the
embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16. FIG. 17B is a side elevational
view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 17A.
[0063] FIG. 18 is a plan view of a shin-mounted embodiment of a pod
set.
[0064] FIG. 19A is a plan view of a first pod mounted on the pod
set illustrated in FIG. 18. FIG. 19B is a side elevational view of
the pod illustrated in FIG. 19A. FIG. 19C is a plan view of a
second pod illustrated in the pod set of FIG. 18. FIG. 19D is a
side elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 19C.
[0065] FIG. 20 is a plan view of a foot-mounted embodiment of a pod
set.
[0066] FIG. 21A is a plan view of a first pod of the foot-mounted
pod set illustrated in FIG. 20. FIG. 21B is a side elevational view
of the pod illustrated in FIG. 21A. FIG. 21C is a plan view of a
second pod of said foot-mounted embodiment illustrated in FIG. 20.
FIG. 21D is a side elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
21C.
[0067] FIG. 22 is a plan view of a cranium-mounted embodiment of a
pod set.
[0068] FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the pod set
illustrated in FIG. 22.
[0069] FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of a portion of the pod
set illustrated in FIG. 22.
[0070] FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the electrical components of
the system.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0071] With respect to all of the Figures illustrating the pods and
pod sets, all major dimensions and arcuate sections are defined in
inches. Minor and transitional arc sections are considered to be
within the ambit of knowledge and skill of those skilled in the art
for construction purposes. All the rigid form edges illustrated
have radii of at least 1/8'' and are variable up to 3/4''.
Chamfers, scallops and bevels are at least 3.quadrature. but are
variable and can sweep to 50.quadrature. in certain circumstances
as described herein. Pods identified with the letter "A" are mirror
equivalents of the unmarked reference numerals. All rigid forms are
of a minimum of 100D durometer of hardness and may be comprised of
any material. In the event that the pods are intended for the
support of sensor or related electronic material, it is preferable
that the pods be comprised of an insulating material. Flexible
sections are preferably comprised of 75-90D material, if one or
either sides of the material are scored to facilitate bendability.
If no surface treatment is used, the flexible materials are
preferably comprised of 30-75D material. Flexible areas are
preferably also stretchable, in the range of 14-16 ounces of
tension for displacement of one-sixteenth inch to 3 inches.
[0072] Referring now to FIG. 1, the collar or neck embodiment of a
pod set is illustrated. This set preferably comprises four pods,
16A, 16B, 22A and 22B, mounted within a flexible collar. The
flexible collar may be of a unitary construction or comprised of
front section 18, rear section 24, and connecting sections 20 and
22. Either or both connecting sections 20 or 22 may be of unitary
construction and stretchable to the point that the head may be
inserted therebetween or may be connected through a well known
fastening means. The collar in embodiment 10 has a front section
12, which is primarily comprised of collar front flexible section
18 having a length 26 of 7.89 inches and a width 28 of 2.82 inches.
The front edge of section 12 has a radius R30 of 4.42 and a rear
radius R32 of 6.3. Rigid pods 16A and 16B are mounted thereon with
a flexible space deposed therebetween. While pod 16A and 16B may
abut each other, a space of at least 3/8 inch is preferably
disposed therebetween. The flexible section is radiused at the
point where the flexible restraints 20 and 22 are affixed having a
radius R34 of 4.0. Flexible portion 18 of front section 12 is
preferably 1/2 inch larger than the pods having a boundary of
approximately 1/4 inch around the perimeter thereof. Flexible
members 20 and 22 preferably have a length of 6.4 inches and
connect front section 12 to rear section 14. Rear section 14 is
provided with a length 36 of 7.27 inches and a width 40 of 3.50
inches. Rear pods 22A and 22B are disposed thereon with a
preferable border 42 of 0.29 inches and a distance therebetween 44
of 0.75 inches. Flexible section 24 is radiused at its rear surface
R52 to a dimension of 2.24 inches and the frontmost facing edge R48
has a dimension of 0.94 inches. Left and right side perimeters of
flexible section 24 have a radius R54 of 4.84. Radius R48
transitions to radius R46, moving outwardly, having a dimension of
4.42 and further transitions to a radius R50 of 1.50 inches where
the leftmost and rightmost corners are encountered.
[0073] Referring now to FIG. 2, pod 16A is illustrated in FIG. 2B
having a length 66 of 4.03 inches and a depth 64 of 1.89 inches.
Pod 16A, as well as 16B, for which all dimensions are identical but
mirrored, has a chamfered edge 73 along the rearmost side, having a
depth 68 of 0.4 inches. Pod 16A is provided with a lateral
dimension 70 extending from front to rear along the rightmost edge
of 1.34 inches as measured from the radius transitional point of
the corners forming a roughly trapezoidal shape. Pod 16A is
provided with a curved surface along the chamfer 73 beginning from
the rear right corner, radius R72, having a dimension of 4.35
inches, radius R74, having a dimension of 1.5 inches, transitioning
to corner radius R79, having a dimension of 0.25 inches. Referring
now to FIG. 2A, pod 16A is seen in a side elevational view having a
depth 58 of 0.45 inches and an inner radius R60 of 32.24 inches and
an outer radius R62 of 9.62 inches. Pod 16A is slightly tapered
from right to left, as seen in FIG. 2A, having a rightmost greater
dimension 56 of 0.45 inches, tapering at the centermost point to
thickness 58 of 0.43 inches.
[0074] Referring now to FIG. 3A, pod 22B is provided with a length
78 of 3.41 inches and a width 76 of 2.25 inches. It is to be
specifically noted that pod 22A has the same dimensions as pod 22B
in a mirrored embodiment. Pod 22B is provided with chamfer section
81 having a width 89 of 0.42 inches. The rearmost edge of pod 22B
is provided with a curved radius R86 of 4.45 inches, transitioning
in a leftmost direction to R85 of 0.75 inches along the front
surface of the chamfered edge. Radius R80 is provided with a
dimension of 0.9 inches which transitions to radius section R82
having a dimension of 4.69 inches. Referring now to FIG. 3B, pod
22B is provided with a tapered cross-sectional dimension having a
thickness 90 of 0.58 inches tapering to a smaller dimensional
thickness 94 of 0.43 inches. At the mid-point 92, a dimension of
0.67 is provided. Pod 22B is provided with a outer radius surface
R98 of 3.58 inches and an inner radius surface R96 of 6 inches. As
applied to the body, front section 12 is located at the top of the
pectoral muscle, just below the clavicle, and is centered on the
sternum of the user. Straps 20 and 22 flow between the meeting
point of the shoulder and neck. Rear section 14 is placed on top of
the upper portion of the trapezius muscle above the spine of
scapula, but in no application should be placed lower than the last
cervical vertebra C7 and no higher than the fifth cervical vertebra
C5. Furthermore, in no circumstances is width 36 to exceed the size
of the spine of scapula bone and the upper trapezius muscle. Front
section 12, and more specifically, radius R30, are intended to be
defined by the first and second ribs below the collar bone. Pods
16A and 16B rest on the pectoral muscle close to the body's center
of gravity and out of the way of arm movement. With respect to rear
section 14, the pods are designed to allow full movement of the
neck and shoulders while utilizing the load bearing space near the
sensory organs of the head. The pods are designed to move and float
over flexed trapezius muscles with radii R48, R46 and R50
determined by the movement of the neck, and the radius R52
determined by the movement of the shoulder blades and the
spine.
[0075] It is to be specifically noted that the pods of any of the
embodiments described herein as discreet constructions may be
joined by flexible material in a variety of combinations and
subcombinations. For example, the collar, tricep and rib cage
embodiments might be joined into a unitary, flexible garment, such
as a shirt, having the appropriate resiliency and modulus of
elasticity as described herein.
[0076] Referring now to FIG. 4, tricep embodiment 100 is adapted
for affixation to the upper arm and is centered on the tricep,
including all three areas of that muscle, the long head, the
lateral head and the tendon. It is intended to be mounted at least
one inch above the elbow joint and at least one-half inch below the
deltoid muscle. Referring briefly to FIG. 5, width 134 of pods 102
and 102A, should not exceed the width of the entire tricep muscle
of the user. The form of this embodiment is designed to allow
movement of the flesh associated with both the shoulder and elbow
joints, and includes flex zones in flexible portion 104 which taper
inward as they wrap around the biceps. Rigid pod section 102 is
affixed within flexible section 104. Flexible section 104 is
intended to reach around the biceps, and the ends thereof may abut
each other in certain applications where the user has a small arm
circumference, but in no event should the ends of flexible section
104 overlap. The topmost curvature of the flexible section 104 is
intended to follow the bottom edge of the deltoid muscle while the
bottom curve of the same flexible section is intended to mimic the
curvature of the lower portion of the bicep. Contact with the
humerus bone is to be specifically avoided in order to avoid
interference with sensitive tendons and nerves at this juncture.
The tricep embodiment 100 is provided with a overall height 108 of
5.12 inches and an overall width 106 of 6.48 inches. The front edge
of this embodiment, flexible section 104, has a height 110 of 3.22
inches, as measured from the completion of the corner radii at the
point of transition to the rearward edges. This edge is provided
with a radius R118 of 10 inches. The topmost edge, moving from
front to rear of the flexible section, is provided with a concave
radius R120 of 2 inches, transitioning to a convex radius R122 of
0.84 inches to support the rigid pod. Rearward of the pod is a
convex radius R124 of 4.58 inches which section has a height 114 of
1.55 inches. The rearwardmost edge 112 has a dimension of 1.28
inches, as measured inclusive of the corner radii. The rearwardmost
edge 112 is transitioned into the bottommost edge with a concave
radius R126 of 2.61. Lastly, a concave lower section R116 is
provided with a radius dimension of 15 inches.
[0077] Referring now to FIG. 5, the pods 102 and 102A of the tricep
embodiment are provided with an overall height 132 of 5.05 inches
and an overall width 134 of 1.99 inches. Pods 102 and 102A are
provided with a chamfered area having an overall width 136 of 0.45
inches which is tapered at each end in a smooth transition. The
topmost edge of pod 102A is provided with a convex radius R140 of
0.81 inches which transitions rearwardly to a concave radius R142
of 4.58 inches and transitions again to a convex rearward facing
edge R144 having a radius of 9.95 inches. The front edge of pod
102A is provided with a radius R138 of 10 inches. Referring to FIG.
5B, the pod is provided with an overall convex section having a
mid-point thickness 146 of 0.5 inches, an outer radius face R150 of
8.62 inches, and an inner radius face R148 of 1.91 inches.
[0078] Referring now to FIG. 6, the upper torso embodiment is
shown. It is to be specifically noted that the leftmost half of the
upper torso portion is illustrated. The rightmost half being an
identical mirror image thereof. Upper torso section 152 has an
overall length of 27.72 inches in its complete form, and an overall
height 170 of 6.91 inches. It is primarily comprised of five pods,
154, 156, 158, 160 and 162, being disposed along a flexible member
168. Each of the pods is provided with an overall convex surface
164 having a chamfered section 166 extending therealong, as will be
described in more detail. It is to be specifically noted that
chamfered section 166 is intended to extend smoothly across the
length of all five pod sections. Upper torso embodiment 152 has a
distance of approximately 1 inch between the first pod of the right
and leftmost sections. First upper torso pod 154 has a major
chamfer width 172 of 2.75 inches, tapering to a width 174 at the
leftmost edge thereof, which coincides with the width of the
flexible member 168 thereunder. Flexible member 168 continues its
gradual taper to a leftmost dimension 176 of 1.49 inches at the
leftmost edge of upper torso embodiment 152. Each of the pods is
disposed a distance 194 of approximately 0.13 inches therebetween.
Second upper torso pod 156 is mounted a distance 178 of 1.85 inches
from the topmost point of pod 154 to the topmost point of second
pod 156. A bottom distance 192 of 1.50 inches is provided between
the lowermost point of first pod 154 and the lowermost point of
second pod 156. Third pod 158 is mounted a distance 180 of 1.35
inches between the topmost points of second pod 156 and third pod
158 at a distance 190 of 0.52 inches between the lowermost points
of second pod 156 and third pod 158. Third pod 158 represents the
lowest point in the curvature of the five pods from first pod 154
through fifth pod 162. Fourth pod 160 is provided a distance 188 of
0.5 inches between the lowermost point of fourth pod 160 in the
lowermost point of third pod 158. Fifth pod 162 is provided a
distance 184 of 0.19 inches between the uppermost point of fifth
pod 162 and the uppermost point of fourth pod 160, and a distance
186 of 1.04 between the lowermost points of those same two pods.
Pods 154 through 162 follow the general curve that sweeps under the
scapula following the latissimus dorsi muscle, tapering inside
toward the front of the body, curving down under the armpit and
back up under the breast and pectoral muscle. Fifth pod 162 can
land as far forward as the sternum or as far back as forward of
center of the armpit area. The upper torso embodiment 152 is always
located no lower than the tenth intercostal space in the rear of
the rib cage and the sixth intercostal space in the front of the
rib cage. It is also located no higher than the pectoral muscle in
the front and the scapula in the rear of the body.
[0079] Referring now to FIG. 7, and with general references to FIG.
6, FIG. 7A shows pod 154A being the analogue of pod 154 for the
rightmost section of the upper torso embodiment 152 having an
overall height 196 of 5.01 inches and an overall width 198 of 2.66
inches. Pod 154A may generally be described as having three major
areas, top and bottom convex sections 164 and a central concave
section 166, forming a portion of the chamfer described earlier.
The topmost convex section has a centerpoint length of 0.79 inches
and the topmost curve R204 is provided with a radius of 0.88
inches. Radius R204 transitions leftwardly to radius 216 of 3.75
inches and rightwardly to concave radius R206 being 5.48 inches. A
distance 202 of 1.74 inches is taken from the mid-point of the
transitional curve between R206 and R204 to the topmost point of
154A. Radius R206 traverses downwardly and transitions to second
concave radius R208 having a dimension of 3.68 inches, finally
transitioning into bottommost radius R210 having a dimension of
0.63 inches. Radius R210 transitions leftwardly and upwardly into
convex radius R212 having a dimension of 1.88 inches, which
transitions at the point of intersection with the chamfer section
166 to radius R213 having a dimension of 3.75 inches. First upper
torso pod 154A is also further defined by a dimensional width 200
from the mid-point of upper radius R204 to the leftmost edge of
1.13 inches and a lower partial width 216 from the mid-point of the
bottommost curvature R210 to the leftmost edge having a value of
1.79 inches. Referring now to FIG. 7B, pod 154A is given a
generally overall curved and tapered shape having its largest
dimension at the rightwardmost edge 218 of 0.72 inches and its
smallest dimension at the leftwardmost edge 220 of 0.42 inches. The
relative sizing of the chamfered section 166 is shown in chain
line. The pod has an overall thickness 222 of 0.76 inches and is
provided with an inner radius R226 of 10 inches and an outer radius
R228 of 5 inches, respectively.
[0080] Referring now to FIG. 7C, second pod 156A has an overall
height 230 of 5.48 inches and an overall width 232 of 3.04 inches.
The distance 238 between chamfer 166 and the topmost section at the
mid-point is 0.92 inches and has a general lower distance 240 of
1.0 inches. Starting at the topmost point, curve R231 is provided
with a radius of 0.75 inches, which transitions in a rightward
fashion into concave radius 242 of 8.59 inches. Concave radius
R244, at the rightmost edge, is provided with a dimension of 4.38
inches which transitions at the lowermost point of the pod 156A to
radius 248 having a dimension of 0.87 inches. Moving leftwardly,
radius R248 transitions to radius R246, having a dimension of 10
inches, which joins radius R231 at the topmost point. Dimensionally
pod 156A has a partial height 234 taken from the topmost point of
pod 156A to the top rightmost corner transition of 1.67 inches in a
dimension from the leftmost edge to the topmost point of radius
R231 being a distance 236 of 0.84 inches. Referring to view D,
chamfered section 166 is shown in chain line. The pod has an
overall curved dimension and a taper from left to right edge having
a maximum thickness 258 at the centerpoint of 0.60 inches and
tapering leftwardly to a dimension 256 of 0.58 inches at the
leftmost edge. Pod 156A is provided with an outermost radius
surface R262 of 4.50 inches and an inner radius surface R260 having
a dimension of 9.29 inches.
[0081] Referring now to FIG. 8, and generally to FIG. 6, FIG. 8A
illustrates pod 158A having an overall width 264 of 3.36 inches and
an overall height 266 of 3.70 inches. Pod 158A is provided with an
uppermost distance 274 between chamfer 166 and the uppermost
surface of 1.11 inches and a lowermost distance 276 of 0.55 inches
measured at the mid-point of the distance between chamfer 166 and
the lowermost edge of the pod 158A. At the uppermost edge of pod
158A, a concave radius R280 is provided having a radius of 8.59
inches. A partial width 270 measured from the leftmost terminal
point of radius R280 to the leftmost edge of the pod 158A is 0.97
inches. Radius R280 transitions to rightmost radius R282 having a
value of 5.93 inches. From the uppermost terminal point of radius
R282, a distance 272 of 0.94 inches is measured to the topmost
point of pod 158A. A partial height 268 of 1.24 inches of pod 158A
is measured from the lowermost point of radius R282 to the
lowermost point of pod 158A. Rightmost radius R282 transitions to
radius R284 having a value of 1.13 inches to form the lower
rightmost curve. Lower left curve is defined by radius R286 having
a value of 1.12 inches transitioning into the leftmost concave
radius R278 having a value of 4.38 inches. Referring to FIG. 8B,
with chamfer 166 shown in chain line, the pod is generally curved
and tapered from right to left having the major dimension at the
rightmost edge 288 of 0.68 inches tapering to a minor dimension at
the leftmost edge 290 of 0.37 inches. An outer face R298 is
provided with a radius of 5 inches, and the inner face R294 is
provided with a radius of 13.79 inches. Referring now to FIG. 8C,
fourth pod 160A is provided with an overall width 302 of 2.67
inches and an overall height 300 of 2.78 inches. The distance
between chamfer 166 and the uppermost surface 306 is 1.03 inches
measured a distance 304 from the leftmost edge of pod 160A of 0.85
inches. The top edge of pod 160A is provided with concave radius
R314 having a value of 8.59 inches. The rightmost edge of pod 160A
is provided with radius R316 having a value of 2.33 inches which
terminates a distance 312 from the bottom edge of pod 160A and
having a value of 1.27 inches extending leftwardly from the
rightmost point of pod 160A. A distance 310 of 2.04 inches begins
radius R317 having a value of 0.62 inches which transitions from
the lowermost edge to the leftmost edge having a convex radius R318
having a value of 5.93 inches. Referring now to FIG. 8D, with
chamfered surface 166 shown in chain line, the pod is generally
curved and tapered from left to right having a major dimension at
the leftmost edge 324 of 0.59 inches tapering to a minor dimension
326 at the rightmost edge of 0.39 inches. At a mid-point, pod 160A
has a depth 320 of 0.56 inches. Referring now to FIG. 8E, fifth pod
162A has an overall width 332 of 2.01 inches and an overall height
334 of 2.15 inches. Chamfered section 166 terminates at a distance
336 of 0.52 inches from the rightmost edge of pod 162A and is
located a distance 338 of 0.78 inches from the topmost edge, and a
distance 340 of 0.19 inches from the lowermost edge. Pod 162A has a
major convex rightmost radius R342 of 1.56 inches, which
transitions to flat top and bottom sections. The leftmost edge is
provided with radius R344 having a value of 2.33 inches. Referring
now to FIG. 8F, pod 162A has an overall thickness 346 of 0.46
inches and an outer surface radius R350 of 5 inches and an inner
radius surface R348 of 8 inches.
[0082] Referring now to FIG. 9, lower torso embodiment 352 is
illustrated showing one-half of the entire apparatus, being the
leftmost half, and be identical to the rightmost half as a mirror
image. Lower torso embodiment 352 is comprised of five pods, 354,
356, 358, 360 and 362, on each side separated by approximately
one-quarter to one inch of flexible material. The flexible material
is centered on the spine just below the third lumbar vertebrae.
Lower torso embodiment 352 is intended to follow the general curve
of the iliac crest of the pelvis. The bottom profile of the set is
defined by the line of the gluteus maximus and the hip joint. The
pods continue around to the front of the body where they rest just
under the flank pad. Fifth pod 362 can land as far forward as the
lower abdomen muscles and as far back as to rest on the gluteus
medias muscle. It is specifically intended that the flexible zones
between the various pods of this embodiment are minimized. While
the flexible section is preferably within the dimensions of the
various pods, it may extend outwardly therefrom 3 to 5 inches
upwardly or downwardly to cover the gluteus medias and the outer
side of the gluteus maximus. Additionally, lower torso embodiment
352 can be joined in the front of the body through flexible areas
having a width of approximately 3 to 4 inches connecting pods 362
and 362A. Lower torso embodiment 352 has an overall length of the
five pods 370 of 14.41 inches. First pod 354 and second pod 356
comprise the maximum top and bottom dimensions having a total
height 372 of 4.80 inches. Second pod 356 lies a distance 390 of
0.13 inches from its topmost point to the topmost point of adjacent
pod 354, and lies a distance 374 of 1.63 inches from its lowest
point to the lowest point of adjacent pod 354. Pod 358, at its
lowest point, is disposed a distance 376 from the lowermost point
of pod 356 being a distance of 0.25 inches. The lowermost point of
fourth pod 360 lies a distance 378 from the lowermost point of
third pod 358, being a distance of 0.06 inches. The lowermost point
of fifth pod 362 lies a distance 382 from the lowermost point of
fourth pod 360, being a distance of 0.36 inches. With respect to
third, fourth and fifth pods 358, 360 and 362, respectively, pod
358 is displaced a distance 386 between its uppermost point and the
uppermost point of pod 360, being a distance of 0.24 inches; while
pod 362 at its uppermost point lies a distance 384 from the
uppermost point of fourth pod 360, being a distance of 0.25 inches.
Interpod distance 392 is typically uniform between the various
pods, between 0.11 inches and 0.12 inches. The five pods are
generally mounted upon a flexible member 364 and incorporate a
chamfered area 368 roughly analogous to chamfered area 166 with
reference to the upper torso embodiment 152.
[0083] Referring now to FIG. 10, with general reference to FIG. 9,
illustration A depicts pod 354A, which is the mirror analogue to
pod 354 shown in FIG. 9. Pod 354A is shown having a overall height
392 of 4.67 inches and an overall width 394 of 4.56 inches. An
average distance 396 between the chamfer and the lowermost edge is
1.38 inches and the mid-point distance between the chamfer 368 and
the topmost point of pod 354A 398 is 0.46 inches. The topmost point
of pod 354A includes convex radius 404 having a value of 1.13
inches. This radius transitions rightwardly to radius R410 having a
concave value of 4 inches, while the lowermost edge of pod 354A is
formed from concave radius R395 having a value of 13.62. This
transitions to radius R408 at the lowermost point of the pod 354A,
having a value of 1.12 inches which finally transitions to the top
leftmost edge radius R406 having a value of 3 inches. This
transition occurs at a distance 400 between the topmost point and
the R408 to R406 transition point having a value of 2.91 inches.
Referring now to FIG. 10B, pod 354A has an overall thickness 420 of
1.05 inches, is generally curved and tapered toward the middle.
Leftmost and rightmost maximum dimensions 422 and 424 are equal at
0.87 inches, and pod 354A has an outward surface radius R430 of
27.53 inches and an inner radius surface R428 of 21.64 inches.
Radius R428 has a dimensional length 426 of 3.20 inches and is
centered on the pod. Referring now to FIG. 10C, showing an
elevation of pod 354A 90.quadrature. displaced from that of FIG.
10B, the pod has an overall thickness 414 of 1.23 inches at its
mid-point, tapering topwardly to a minimum dimension 412 of 0.85
inches and tapering at its lower end to a minor dimension 417 of
0.44 inches. Pod 354A has a inner convex curvature R416, having a
value of 6 inches, and an outer convex curvature R418, having a
value of 4 inches
[0084] Referring now to FIG. 11, with general reference to FIG. 9,
pod 356A is shown in illustration A having an overall height 432 of
2.67 inches and an overall width 434 of 3.79 inches. Chamfer 368 is
disposed an average distance 438 from the bottom surface of pod
356A a distance of 1.12 inches and a distance 436 of 0.72 inches
from the mid-point of top concave radius R440, itself having a
dimension of 21.44 inches. Top radius R440 transitions rightwardly
to radius R444 having a concave value of 10.62 inches, while R440
transitions leftwardly to convex radius R442 having a value of 4
inches. In section as shown in FIG. 11B, pod 356A has an overall
thickness 446 of 1.04 inches, and is generally curved and slightly
tapered, having a minimum dimension at the rightmost edge 448 of
0.73 inches and a maximum thickness at the leftmost edge 452 of
0.77 inches. Pod 356A in this section has an outward-facing curved
surface R454 having a radius of 28.80, while the inner surface R456
has a radius of 28.80 inches. Referring to FIG. 11C, which is an
elevation taken at a 90.quadrature. angle from that shown in FIG.
11B, pod 356A has an outward radius R464 of 4 inches, an overall
thickness 458 of 0.81 inches, and a topmost terminal thickness 460
of 0.64 inches tapering to a bottommost edge dimension 462 of 0.57
inches.
[0085] Referring now to FIG. 12, pod 358A is provided having a
height 466 of 2.1 inches and a overall width 468 of 2.29 inches.
Chamfer 368 is disposed a distance 472 from the topmost edge of pod
358A, being a distance of 0.22 inches, and a distance 470 from the
lower edge of pod 358A, being a distance of 0.92 inches. The
rightmost edge of pod 358A is provided with radius 474 having a
value at 11.03 inches, while leftmost edge R476 is provided with a
radius of 8.71 inches. Referring now to FIG. 12B, pod 358A is
provided with an overall thickness 480 of 0.79 inches and has an
interior surface radius R482 of 10 inches and an outer surface
radius R484 of 5 inches. Referring to FIG. 12C, which shows an
elevational view of pod 358A taken from a position 90 degrees
opposed from that of FIG. 12B, pod 358A is provided with an overall
thickness 486 of 0.73 inches and an outer surface radius R488 of 4
inches.
[0086] Referring now to FIG. 13, with general reference to FIG. 9,
pod 368 is shown in FIG. 13A as having an overall height 490 of
2.93 inches and an overall width 492 of 1.79 inches. Chamfer 368 is
shown a distance 496 from the lowermost point of pod 360A having a
dimension of 0.75 inches, and a distance 494 from the topmost
surface having a value of 0.25 inches. The topmost surface R506 has
a radius value of 6 inches, which transitions rightwardly to the
right side edge R504 having a value of 8.85 inches. Lower edge R500
has a radius value of 13.62 inches, which transitions leftwardly to
the arc section forming the lowermost point of pod 360A having a
radius of 0.5 inches. Referring now to FIG. 13B, pod 360A is shown
having an overall thickness 512 of 0.81 inches, an inner surface
radius R516 having a value of 5 inches, and an outer surface radius
R514 having a value of 2.87 inches. Referring now to FIG. 13C,
which is an elevational view taken from a perspective 900 opposed
from that of FIG. 13B, pod 360A has an overall thickness 518 of
0.99 inches and is generally curved and tapered from top to bottom,
having a maximum thickness at the uppermost edge 520 of 0.81 inches
and a minimum thickness at the lowermost edge 522 being 0.41
inches. Pod 360A is provided with an inner surface radius R528 of 5
inches and an outer surface radius R526 of 4 inches.
[0087] Referring now to FIG. 14, with general reference to FIG. 9,
end pod 362A is shown having an overall height 530 of 2.57 inches,
and an overall width 532 of 3.33 inches. Chamfer 368 is disposed a
distance 538 from the topmost edge of pod 362A being a distance of
0.225 inches, and a lower distance 534 from the lowermost edge of
pod 362A a distance of 0.45 inches. Chamfer 368 terminates at a
point interior to pod 362A being a distance 536 from the leftmost
edge of pod 362A and having a value of 1.79 inches. Pod 362A is
provided with an upper right radius 544 of 0.87 inches, which
transitions leftwardly into radius 546 having a value of 4 inches.
Lower surface 548 has a concave radius value of 4.41 inches.
Referring now to Figure B, pod 362A has an overall thickness 550 of
0.71 inches, and generally tapers from bottom to top having a
maximum dimension at bottom edge 552 having a value of 0.55 inches,
tapering to top edge 554 having a value of 0.53 inches.
[0088] Referring now to FIG. 15, a forearm embodiment 560 is shown.
Not illustrated but well understood to those skilled in the art, is
a flexible cuff which envelops the wrist area having a typical
length dimension of 4 inches into which the pod 560 is mounted. The
pod for the forearm sits aside of the head of the ulna behind the
wrist joint and on top of the tendons. The straightest edge of this
roughly circular form follows the line from the tendon extending
back from the forefinger. The flexible cuff that surrounds pod 560
encircles the arm and may be curved to avoid interference with the
head of the ulna. The cuff could also extend the length of the
forearm, curving under the bicipital fascia and wrapping upwardly
along the line defined by the brachialis muscle. The small size and
low profile of pod 560 are specifically intended to allow complex
skeletal twisting and to permit the forearm to interact with the
environment to enter various spaces on or around the body. Pod 560
is generally circular, having an angular protrusion extending
roughly at right angles thereto defined by radius R570 having a
value of 0.5 inches. Pod 560 generally has an overall width 562 of
1.38 inches and an overall height 564 of 1.52 inches. Flattened
sections 566 generally have a length of 0.38 inches and are
disposed a distance 568 which is 0.38 inches from the opposing
surface. Referring now to FIG. 15B, pod 560 is generally curved,
having overall thickness 572 of 0.44 inches and an inner surface
radius R576 of 2.06 inches. Pod 560 is provided with an outer
surface radius R574 of 2.5 inches.
[0089] Referring now to FIG. 16, thigh embodiment 578 is
illustrated which is applied to the outer front of the leg, sits
directly upon the outer upper portion of the quadriceps muscle of
the thigh. The bottom profile of the form is designed to follow the
line defined by the quadriceps tendon thereby keeping the pod on
the muscle. The upper profile follows a concave curve. The flexible
sections 586 wrap up to one-third of the distance around the thigh,
extending one inch toward the front of the leg and three inches
around the side of the leg. This placement keeps the pod out of the
way for both walking and sitting. Curves in the profiles of the
five pods are designed to allow the movement of the thigh muscles
and the excess skin associated with the knee joint. The thigh pod
is best attached to the body with straps that encircle the leg or
as embedded in fitted pants. Thigh embodiment 578 is generally
comprised of a rigid pod 580 mounted in conjunction with flexible
section 586. Rigid pod 580 is further comprised of a generally
convex top surface 582 and a chamfered section 584 extending around
a portion of the perimeter. Thigh embodiment 578 has an overall
width 590 of 7.52 inches and overall height 588 of 6.99 inches. The
rightmost flexible section has a width 608, as measured at the
topmost edge surface, of 1.5 inches. The rightmost edge of the
flexible section is generally comprised of radius R612 having a
length of 4.75 inches. At the bottommost portion, radius R612
transitions to convex radius R614 having an overall height 604 of
0.68 inches. The leftmost flexible section has an overall width, as
measured from the top edge 598, of 3.16 inches, and a height of the
major leftmost arcuate section 594 of 3.68 inches. A concave lower
radius R616 is defined by a radius 5.49 inches and has an overall
width 600 of 2.68 inches and a height 596 of 1.28 inches.
[0090] Referring now to FIG. 17, rigid pod 580A is provided with an
overall height 620 of 6.96 inches and an overall width 618 of 3.95
inches. Chamfered section 584 extends for a distance 628 of 0.95
inches, excluding the radius corner, and narrows to a distance 634
of 0.21 inches at its narrowest point at the uppermost segment of
the convex top surface 582. The chamfered surface has general width
624 along the rightmost edge of 0.73 inches, narrowing in a gradual
taper moving toward the bottom surface of 0.54 inches at reference
symbol 626, the upper termination point of the lower tapered
section of chamfer 584. Pod 580A has a topmost edge surface having
radius R632 of 4 inches and a rightmost convex radius R636 of 6.85
inches. R636 transitions, moving downwardly, to R638 at the tapered
section having a radius of 1.50 inches at the transition, and a
radius R640 of 5.49 inches at the termination point of the chamfer.
The lower left corner of pod 580A is comprised of radius R642
having a value of 0.75 inches transitioning upwardly to radius R644
having a radius of 15 inches. Referring now to FIG. 17B, pod 580A
has an overall thickness 646 of 1.26 inches and is generally curved
and tapered in dimension having its maximum thickness at rightmost
terminal edge section 648, having a value of 0.67 inches,
transitioning to the minimum thickness at the leftmost edge 650,
having a value of 0.61 inches. Outermost surface R656 has a radius
of 5 inches, while interior surface has a concave radius R654 of
3.25 inches.
[0091] Referring now to FIG. 18, the major and minor pods on the
shin embodiment are connected by a flexible area which is typically
one-quarter of an inch. The flexible area is centered on the
furthest forward point or peak of the tibia shaft with the larger
or major pod resting on the tibialis muscle, and the smaller pod or
minor pod resting on the shaft of the tibia towards the inside of
the shin. The sharp angle downward on the top profile of the shin
pods follows the angle downward of the tibialis muscle. The outer
edge of the major pod also follows a line defined by this muscle.
The central location of the major pod on this tibialis muscle is
critical to the placement of the form of the pod. The smaller or
minor pod's outside profile is further defined by the inside soleus
muscle. The flexible areas for the shin extend just to the edges of
the tibialis and soleus muscles but could extend optionally to the
complete circumference of the calf, curving underneath the large
calf muscle, or gastrocnemius, and above the Achilles tendon. Shin
embodiment 657 has an overall width 660 of 5.76 inches and an
overall height 658 of 6.8 inches. Shin embodiment 657 is generally
comprised of the major rigid pod 662 and minor rigid pod 664
mounted within a flexible section 666. Flexible section 666 extends
leftwardly from major pod 662 a distance 685 being 1.42 inches, and
has a leftmost edge R694 having a radius of 10.42 inches. The lower
section of flexible member 666 adjacent major pod 662 has a concave
radial edge R692 having a radius of 1.5 inches. A distance 676 of
0.27 inches separates the lower point of leftmost flexible section
666 with the lowest point of major pod 662, while the uppermost
point of the flexible section extends a distance 678 being 0.29
inches above the uppermost point of major pod 662. Major pod 662
and minor pod 664 are separated by distance 684 being 0.11 inches.
Flexible member 666 transitions rightwardly from major pod 662
through a concave radial section R686 having a radius of 1.6
inches, and extends a distance 682 rightward of major pod 664 being
a distance of 0.64 inches. Rightmost edge section R688 of the
flexible section is comprised of an arcuate surface R688 having a
radius of 7.79 inches, and again transitions leftwardly back to the
lowest point of major pod 662 through a radial section R690 having
a radius of 2.06 inches and an overall height 674 of 0.88
inches.
[0092] Referring now to FIG. 19A, major pod 662A has an overall
height 696 of 6.5 inches and an overall width 698 of 2.42 inches.
The rightmost surface is comprised of radial section R702 having a
radius of 9 inches, which transitions downwardly to lower radial
section R704 having a radius of 1.25 inches. The topmost point of
pod 662A is comprised of a radial section R669 having a radius of
0.43 inches. A chamfered section 670 extends along the leftward
side of pod 662A having an average width 700 of 0.51 inches.
Referring now to FIG. 19B, pod 662A has an overall height 706 of
0.83 inches and is generally tapered down to a height 708 of 0.64
inches at the leftmost edge, excluding a sharp downward taper which
includes the chamfer. The exterior top surface R710 incorporates a
radial section at its centermost point having a radius of 3.96
inches transitioning to a radius at the rightmost corner R714 of
0.4 inches. Interior radial surface R716 has a radius of 2.25
inches. Referring now to FIG. 19C, minor pod 664 is shown having an
overall height 722 of 4.51 inches and an overall width 724 of 1.05
inches. The leftmost edge is primarily comprised of a radius
section R732 having a radius of 9.17 inches and extending a
distance 728 of 2.03 inches located a distance 726 from the topmost
edge being a distance of 1.22 inches. The lower third of the
leftmost edge is comprised of a radius R730 having a radial
distance of 1.65 inches. Referring to illustration D, pod 664 in
section has an overall height 717 of 0.4 inches and a primary
leftmost upper radial surface R718 of 0.25 inches tapering to
rightmost radii R720 having a value of 0.38 inches.
[0093] Referring now to FIG. 20, foot embodiment 734 is primarily
comprised of major pod 736 and minor pod 738 separated by a
flexible section 739. The two pods of the foot embodiment rest on
the top and outer side of the foot connected by a flexible area of
approximately one-half inch width. The pods are at a slight angle
to each other to accommodate a flexion over the complex curve of
the top of the foot. The pod on the top of the foot has a straight
vertical which follows the line of the tendon of big toe. The
bottom profile curves back towards the heel following a line
defined by the joints of each subsequent toe. The top profile of
this pod is concave, and the flexible space between the two pods
rests along the length of this last tendon of the small toe. The
pod on the side of foot rests directly on the exterior digitorum
brevis muscle following lines defined by the heel and ankle bones.
The flexible areas of the foot embodiment could be extended to
cover the entire top surface of the foot, curving around all the
ankle and toe joints. Foot embodiment 734 has an overall length 740
of 7.28 inches and an overall height 742 of 3.04 inches. The pods
are separated by a distance 741 of 0.60 inches.
[0094] Referring now to FIG. 21, FIG. 21A illustrates major pod
736A of foot embodiment 734 having an overall height 746 of 2.80
inches and an overall width 744 of 4.59 inches. The pod has a top
radial section R756 having a radius of 6.33 inches and extending
for a length 752 of 2.83 inches. The top section transitions
rightwardly to radius section R762 having a radius of 0.5 inches,
the mid-point of said radial section being a distance 750 from the
lowermost point of pod 736A being a distance of 1.82 inches. The
lower left radial section R758 has a radius of 0.75 inches and the
leftmost section 748 extends for a lateral distance of 1.65 inches
to the topmost edge. Referring to illustration B, pod 736A has an
overall height 768 of 0.83 inches, is generally tapered from a
thinner center section outwardly to each end. Rightmost edge 764
has a length of 0.58 inches and tapers to a minimum thickness of
0.36 inches at 766. Pod 736A tapers outwardly to leftmost edge 770
having a distance of 0.59 inches. Outer radial surface R778 has a
radius of 10 inches while inner radial surface R776 has a value of
3.34 inches. Referring to illustration C, minor pod 738A has an
overall width 788 of 1.99 inches and overall height 790 of 2.69
inches. This primarily comprised of a lower right radial section
R792 having a radius of 1 inch, a lower left radial section R794
having a radius of 0.5 inches, and a left edge section R796 having
a radial measurement of 22.17 inches. Referring now to the
elevational view shown in illustration D, pod 738A has an overall
thickness 782 of 0.55 inches and having a bottommost dimension 780
having a thickness of 0.48 inches which tapers outwardly to 0.82
inches and then inwardly again as the pod extends towards its
topmost section 784 having a width of 0.26 inches. The outermost
surface R786 has a radial value of 8 inches.
[0095] Referring now to FIG. 22, a head embodiment 798 is provided
having three pod sections, a leftmost section 800, a rightmost
section 802, and a top section 805.
[0096] Referring now to FIGS. 22, 23 and 24, the head embodiment
798 is mounted behind the temples but above the cheekbone above the
ear, resting on the temporalis muscle. Rear portion 805 centers
itself under the external occipital protuberance and is affixed to
left and right sections 800 and 802, respectively, through a
flexible layer, which is not shown. An optional flexible section
connecting the front ends of sections 802 and 800 is also
contemplated. Rear section 805 is an overall length 810 of 5 inches
and an overall depth 814 of 1.82 inches and an overall height 850
of 1.29 inches. The inner or front surface is comprised of three
major sections, the primary radial section R831, on both left and
right sides, of 3.09 inches; a transitional radial section R830 of
1.25 inches; and a center convex radial section 818 of 1.25 inches.
The rearmost surface of rear section 805 contains rigid pods 806
having rearward facing surfaces 804. Pods 806 are mounted to
arcuate sections R838, measuring 2.43 inches, and are separated by
distance 803 of 0.33 inches. The pod section has a total width 812
of 4.68 inches while the entire headpiece has an overall width 808
of 6.04 inches. The rear section 805 is separated from right and
left sections 800 and 802 by flexible section 826 having a distance
of 0.14 inches. Rear section 805 has an overall height 872 of 1.04
inches, while the side sections have an overall length 820 of 4.08
inches and an overall height 848 of 1.43 inches. Each of the three
segments is chamfered at the perimeter on both interior and
exterior surfaces 844. Rear section 805 has an additional lower
chamfer 842. Each of the side sections 802 and 800 have an overall
length 852 of 4.13 inches, an interior chamfered segment 863 having
an overall length 862 of 1.73 inches and are preferably constructed
of 90D material. Each segment extends forwardly from rear section
805 with an initial height 866 of 0.54 inches tapering down to a
height 868 of 0.45 inches. A temporal flange at the forwardmost
portion of side pieces 800 and 802, has an overall height 864 of
1.06 inches tapering to a forward pointed section extending a
distance 860 of 0.96 inches from the widest point of the temporal
flange.
[0097] In operation, at least one sensor is mounted within the pod
member. The precise location of the sensor is wholly dependent upon
the nature of the human physiological status data which is to be
collected. Certain sensors require direct contact with the skin,
while others require only mounting in a location proximate to the
body surface. The appropriate pod location is determined from
physiological data which is well within the knowledge of those
skilled in the art of human physiological data acquisition.
[0098] Referring now to FIG. 25, a sensor or sensor array 900 is
mounted within a pod 902. Processing means 905, which may or may
not be incorporated with data storage memory may be located in a
separate pod 903 or within the same pod 904 as sensor array 900.
The physical location of the sensors and electronic components is
primarily a function of size and convenience. It is anticipated
that with the current and future development of small, dedicated
processors and miniaturized circuitry, that the processor means 905
will be mounted within the same pod 904 as the sensors 900. The
rigidity of the pod 900 is intended to protect the sensors and
circuitry from damage by physical contact as well as environmental
conditions. The flexible sections which surround and interconnect
the rigid pod sections are sized and intended to carry flexible
electronic wiring and other data transmission means, such as
optical fiber. Wireless technologies might also be utilized to
connect even the basic sensor and processor apparatus. A
transmitter 910 might be placed in a separate pod 908, or combined
with any of the sensor or processor pod sections.
[0099] As applied to the human body, a sensor would be mounted
within a pod and intended to detect a certain physiological or
environmental status. The sensor would electronically emit an
electrical signal which would be passed to the processor according
to conventional methodology. The processor, if designed for onboard
processing, would track the various data points detected by the
sensor and store this data in memory, preferably in the form of a
database. In this manner, all data from the various sensors mounted
to the body could be correlated in terms of time and location. This
data could then be interpreted by onboard software to detect
certain changes or thresholds of physical activity or condition.
This information could be stored for batch retrieval at certain
times, or transmitted in a continuous, real-time stream of data.
The processing means 905, in one embodiment, construct certain
graphical, numerical or electronic output data which would be
passed to the output means 912. Output means 912 is intended to
range from a simple LED indicator light to a graphical display,
which might be incorporated in a pod or worn as a watch, for
example. Other methodologies of feedback to the user include
auditory, tactile and haptic indicators or alarms, which would
signal the passage of the sensor data through a preset threshold.
It is specifically intended that more than one output means may be
utilized simultaneously.
[0100] Transmitter 910 is adapted to take the output data from
processor 905 and transmit the same to a monitoring facility 914.
This may occur in the event that the user receives direct output or
not. Certain embodiments may also utilize only rudimentary data
acquisition and capturing facilities within the processor 905 and
pass this raw data to transmitter 910 for processing within
monitoring facility 914. In either event, monitoring facility 914
is comprised of a receiving means 916, a processing means 918 and
an output means 920. These are assembled according to methodologies
well known to those skilled in the art, and may be incorporated
within the functionality of a personal computer. This would also
enable the data to be further transmitted by computer transmission
922 to any external data storage or output source through
telecommunication or other network data sharing modalities.
[0101] The terms and expressions which have been employed here are
used as terms of description and not as limitation, and there is no
intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding
equivalents of the features shown and described or portion thereof,
it being recognized that various modifications are possible within
the scope of the invention claimed.
[0102] Although particular embodiments of the present invention
have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in
the foregoing detailed description, it is to be further understood
that the present invention is not to be limited to just the
embodiments disclosed, but that they are capable of numerous
rearrangements, modifications and substitutions.
* * * * *