The combined hardware/software system may also include a mouse, a joystick, or any other force sensing member, having finger- (or hand-) actuated keys or buttons. Thus, the amount of force being generated may be influenced by emotional factors. The same apparatus can be used to evaluate both impaired and normal subjects. In some regards, the FMS is like to a treadmill for fingers. The invention is described in detail herein with reference to the drawings in which: FIG. Following are the two methods of measuring low pressures. head or hand tremor, mobility of a limb, Measuring contraction of parts of the body, e.g. The present invention provides a force measuring system (FMS) that is useful for evaluating fatigue. TECHNICAL FIELD. We have constructed an edge device from a 250-microm-thick lead foil laminated between two thin slabs of acrylic. The prior art also discloses force measuring systems that measure the amount of force generated by a muscle or group of muscles. In a broad sense, load cells and force-sensitive resistors (like FlexiForce touch sensors) are the two most common methods. They are available in a range of external dimensions and rated capacities and can feature either potted, external strain gauges or down-hole, hermetic strain gauges. 7, the analog signal conditioning circuit, The calibrator illustrated in FIG. 3A; FIG. In one embodiment, a finger fatigue measuring system is provided which measures the force output from fingers while the fingers are repetitively generating forces as the strike a keyboard. sensors, in relation to patient, Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. The metronome aids the subject in depressing the keys according to a predetermined rhythm. The invention may further provide a keyboard (regular or ergonomic) as the housing for the force sensing member of the combined hardware/software system. The force generating device is connected to the load member and moves the load member toward or away from the cart so as to apply pushing or pulling forces to the cart. In addition, when the subject is requested to perform sequential motor movements when timing is closely regulated, such as sequentially depressing keys in time with a metronome, a trend towards an overlap in depression and release from one finger to the next is another indication of fatigue. ), offers a wide range of measurement solutions utilizing know-how accumulated more than 70 years. In one embodiment, a finger fatigue measuring system is provided which measures the force output from fingers while the fingers are repetitively generating forces as they strike a keyboard. In addition, as the amplitude of the EMG signals increase, the frequency of the EMG signals decrease. Power controlled systems like doors, gates, windows, sun roofs or protection devices for machines can cause injuries. Continue… Scientists and engineers often use proving rings as a way to measure force. The invention relates generally to a device and method for measuring force, primarily as a function of fatigue, and more particularly to a device and method for monitoring a specific body part of a person for fatigue by measuring and evaluating the forces generated by that body part as it performs a series of sequential or repetitive motions. See FIG. To carry out the above functions, the computer may also be programmed to have some form of software interface such as a neural network configuration or other program that monitors the force profile of the player(s) and modifies the game. It describes the method of calibration, calculation of calibration results and the classification of the torque measuring device in a … In Krugman, finger force is measured by way of a vibration detecting device attached to the keyboard. 5.2 If the device deflects less than 45°, then the magnetically induced deflection force is less than the force on the device due to gravity (its weight). The FMS is capable of quantifying finger fatigue recorded in real-time during repetitive motion of the fingers, either separately or together. Whether it is musicians, computer users, or any other persons applying force (repetitively or sequentially) with their fingers, the FMS allows a more scientific approach toward the management of RSI. The flange technology developed by HBM is characterized by an extremely short design … EMG signals may be employed to detect muscle fatigue while the muscle undergoes isometric- or isotonic-type testing. No. As a modulator and amplifier, an electronic device could be used the same one which is also used in the drilling measuring device, shown in. The contraption in the center works to show the ring's diameter after it has been compressed or … In addition to the aforementioned applications, the present invention can be adopted to provide “biofeedback” information to the subject by displaying either or both type(s) of force profile(s) on a video monitor, which the subject would then be expected to react to by changing their application of force to the force sensing apparatus. Priority is claimed on Japanese Patent Application No. The indirect method of level measurement involves converting readouts and data … Device and method for measuring axial force of bolt . 4. For this condition, it is assumed that any risk imposed by the application of the magnetically induced force is no greater than any risk imposed by normal daily activity in the Earth's gravitational field. Regardless, the force profile may provide important feedback to the subject (or other person, such as a prospective or current employer) regarding the subject's overall state of wellness. Electromyographic force measuring system and method. The lateral force-measuring device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said rotator is dependently rotated by a rotation of one of a pair of axially connected wheels.. 3. FIGS. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are incorporated herein by reference as if each such publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. United States Patent 7152475 . mice, trackballs, pens or joysticks; Accessories therefor with detection of 2D relative movements between the device, or an operating part thereof, and a plane or surface, e.g. The kinetic friction coefficient of the contact surfaces between the moving parts changes with the relative moving velocity of the two contact surfaces. Subjects who have RSI are not able to generate as much force as non-afflicted subjects, nor are they able to conduct an exercise for as long a period of time. Medical devices and human-machine-interfaces (HMIs) need to measure force as well, albeit on a much smaller and more precise scale. Perfect Force Testing on Point-Setting Systems. Other applications include the following: measuring the change in force one generates when standing on a mat as an indication that the person is fatigued and should sit down; measuring the change of force applied by the wrist to a wrist pad or by the forearm to an armchair when typing as an indicator of fatigue; measuring the change of force while using power tools for industrial safety in setting limits on the time period that the tools can be used to prevent fatigue-related accidents; and biometric applications involving use of the force profiles for identifying individuals or classes of individuals with similar profiles. A sliding vibration isolation system, affected by a kinetic friction force, provides a flexible or energy dissipation system for a structure. allows for the accurate capture of EMG signals simultaneously with signals representing force measurements. By using the FMS, it is possible to begin to discriminate between various clinical RSI manifestations. protocols for calibrating sensors using calibration standards, Constructional details of apparatus specially shaped apparatus housings, Arrangements of detecting, measuring or recording means, e.g. 3A. The first is in the area of affective computing. More on continuum mechanics using keyboards or dials, Constructional details or processes of manufacture of the input device, Detecting, measuring or recording for diagnostic purposes; Identification of persons, Detecting, measuring or recording devices for testing the shape, pattern, colour, size or movement of the body or parts thereof, for diagnostic purposes, Measuring movement of the entire body or parts thereof, e.g. This device is also part of a method that uses the effect of boiling point elevation for calculating the molecular mass of a solvent. How to Measure Force. Device and method for diagnosing a disorder. US6363799B1 US09/631,901 US63190100A US6363799B1 US 6363799 B1 US6363799 B1 US 6363799B1 US 63190100 A US63190100 A US 63190100A US 6363799 B1 US6363799 B1 US 6363799B1 Authority US United States Prior art keywords ring diameter speed, amount, decline, etc.) 13 is an illustration of a force measuring system which also includes means for measuring EMG. FIG. In addition to in-house development and production of sensors for force measurement technology, A.S.T. measuring device, concerning the vertical force measuring, named F z. As CTS and other forms of RSI increase, it is expected that the market for various forms of finger strengthening devices will increase. After setting the target force level, the subject is prompted to depress each key repetitively in a particular rhythm established either by the subject or externally for a period of time. 3B illustrates an FMS that evaluates the fingers of the subject's right hand. Systemic arterial stiffness affects the global buffering properties of the arterial system, but for a particular segment or region there is essentially one value of stiffness for one value of blood pressure (BP) for one individual. In U.S. Pat. Such an apparatus may have keys with adjustable spacing and resistance. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the basic elements of a person's arm that work together to generate finger forces; FIG. If the secondary force is larger than the initial force, the system triggers an auditory warning signal. Most subjects who are undergoing repetitive motion during exercise (e.g. Generally, a single muscle or a related group of muscles is monitored for fatigue. Such a method would be useful to hand surgeons, and physical and occupational therapists to evaluate patients suffering from RSI before and after clinical interventions. During this time, EMG signals may also be collected by the FMS and recorded from muscles in a manner similar to the recording of heart rate while using a conventional treadmill. As such, the keys serve to function as the input devices referred to herein as “force sensing members” of the apparatus. This allows one to visualize the electrical activity that generates the force that causes the key depression and release simultaneously with the force measurement. To prevent this, there is a number of standards, which define force limits and measuring methods. In an alternative embodiment, a metronome may be provided. 12 is an illustration of a force measuring system incorporated into a personal computer system that includes a mouse and joystick; and. 2 represents sample EMG outputs of a subject performing repetitive motions. b) a switch sensor functionally associated with the force sensing member that generates signal when depression and release of the force sensing member occurs during performance of the repetitive motions. Damage occurs when the muscles are not properly rested. These EMG signal changes can be evaluated simultaneously with force measurements to enhance the ability to obtain useful clinical information from the FMS. At least one force-measuring element (136) is arranged in the glow plug housing (114). 2A depicts the relationship between EMG signal (RMS) and time, and FIG. In some cases, finger tapping is a clinical assessment of motor problems. Direct method. When there is not an easy direct method of measuring a liquid, gas or solid within the system equipment operators must use an indirect method. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), which is one form of RSI, is a significant health problem in the workplace today. 5,855,231, measurement of force is used to study motor deficit for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment monitoring. depressed or released) during application of the force via the key switches, or “switch sensors”. The FMS may also be used in the evaluation of strengthening devices. When considering force measurement and sensing technologies for an application, engineers must take power requirements, form factors, sensor accuracy, upfront and operating costs, and other factors into their choice. For example, force sensors may be included in buttons of the game controllers, and data from the force sensors can be processed by the computer to evaluate how the person is playing in terms of the characteristics (e.g. 1, but the end result of finger activation is force produced by the fingers. The signals from the vibration sensor are proportional to the force produced by the fingers. 3A is adopted for use as a “training device” to help a user develop the stamina to avoid fatigue. At present, all repetitive stress injuries are considered similar. Watch Queue Queue. Methods and apparatus to meter video game play, Scheduling and improving ergonomic breaks using environmental information, Snap perfected hinge for supporting a closure element, Finger and hand exerciser with tension adjuster, Pre-tightening structure for liner sliding rail, Postural information system and method including central determining of subject advisory information based on subject status information and postural influencer status information, Predictive risk intelligent safety module, Device for evaluating the motor capacity of the upper members of an individual, Method and apparatus for real-time measurement and analysis of occupational stress and fatigue and performance outcome predictions, DEVICE FOR EVALUATING THE DISTAL MOTRICITY OF THE UPPER MEMBERS OF AN INDIVIDUAL, Exercise bicycle apparatus particularly adapted for controlling video games, Method and apparatus for measuring the isometric muscle strength of multiple muscle groups in the human body, Interactive sports simulation system with physiological sensing and psychological conditioning, Video game difficulty level adjuster dependent upon player's aerobic activity level during exercise, Force monitoring apparatus for back muscles, Method of encouraging attention by correlating video game difficulty with attention level, Instrumented computer keyboard for prevention of injury, Portable electronic data collection apparatus for monitoring musculoskeletal stresses, Method of detecting excessive keyboard force, Force feedback interface having isotonic and isometric functionality, Finger exercise and rehabilitation device, Impact absorbing keyboard, contoured to the natural shape of the hand and method of using, System and method for providing quantified and qualitative hand analysis, Method to reduce inflammation and tactile finger sensation deficit due to carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis, System and method for controlling gaming technology, musical instruments and environmental settings via detection of neuromuscular activity, Method using finger force upon a touchpad for controlling a computerized system, Variable accuracy of wearable heart rate monitors during aerobic exercise, Effects of age and gender on finger coordination in MVC and submaximal force-matching tasks, Practice effects on coordination and control, metabolic energy expenditure, and muscle activation, Current techniques for assessing physical exposure to work-related musculoskeletal risks, with emphasis on posture-based methods, Emotional response analyzer system with multimedia display, Muscular energy state analysis system and method for swing motion and computer program product thereof, Age-related differences in rapid muscle activation after rate of force development training of the elbow flexors, Influence of time pressure and verbal provocation on physiological and psychological reactions during work with a computer mouse, Repetitive work of the upper extremity: part II—the scientific basis (knowledge base) for the guide, Interactive video testing and training system, Device for measurement of muscular volume, Optimal cylindrical handle diameter for grip force tasks, Evaluation of handgrip force from EMG measurements, Perceptual limits for a robotic rehabilitation environment using visual feedback distortion, Trapezius muscle activity as a risk indicator for shoulder and neck pain in female service workers with low biomechanical exposure, Systems and methods for performing surface electromyography and range-of-motion test, Apparatus and method for evaluating a hypertonic condition, Nerve condition monitoring system and electrode supporting structure, Voluntary redistribution of muscle activity in human shoulder muscles, Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees, Information on status: patent discontinuation, Expired due to failure to pay maintenance fee. , trackballs, pens or pucks, Control and interface force measuring device and method therefor, e.g motor problems an important tool! 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