US 6,527,711 B1
`(10) Patent No.:
`a2) United States Patent
`Stivoric et al.
`(45) Date of Patent:
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`
`US006527711B1
`
`(54) WEARABLE HUMAN PHYSIOLOGICAL
`DATA SENSORS AND REPORTING SYSTEM
`THEREFOR
`
`.
`
`2/1998 Jenkins etal.
`9/1998 Chem ce ceeccsseeeeeeee 374/141
`2/1999 Mahoney
`3/1999 Keseetal.
`6/1999 Hayakawaetal.
`
`......... 600/587
`
`5,719,743 A
`5,813,766 A *
`5,868,671 A
`5,884,198 A
`5,908,396 A *
`6/1999 Ortega vac 368/276
`5,912,865 A *
`Inventors: HrancineGemaperieButcburet,PR
`(75)
`°
`3
`co
`
`
`(US): Christopher Kasabach. 6,247,647 Bl*6/2001 Courtney et al. ...... 235/462.36
`Pittsburgh, PA (US)
`* cited by examiner
`
`.
`
`‘
`
`*
`
`:
`
`(73) Assignee: BodyMedia, Inc., Pittsburgh, PA (US)
`
`(*) Notice:
`
`Subject to any disclaimer, the term ofthis
`patent is extended or adjusted under 35
`US.C. 154(b) by 0 days.
`
`(21) Appl. No.: 09/419,600
`og.
`Filed:
`(22)
`Oct. 18, 1999
`(SL) Ent, C17 oe cee ceeeceeteeeeeeteneeseeee A61B 5/00
`(52) US. Cl
`600/300; 128/898; 600/390;
`— ,
`, 6001587
`(58) Field of Search
`600/300-301
`600/502-503, 504, 388-390, 481, 500
`587-595: 128/900 903-904: 368276
`,
`,
`,
`References Cited
`
`(56)
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`4129125 A
`12/1978 Lester et al.
`4151831 A *
`51979 Lester
`scecccsssccsececsesssees 600/481
`4.757.453 A
`7/1988 Nasiff
`4,827,943 A
`5/1989 Bornnetal.
`5,050,612 A
`9/1991 Matsumura
`5,285,398 A
`2/1994 Janik
`5,305,244 A
`4/1994 Newmanetal.
`5,353,793 A
`10/1994 Bornn
`5,445,149 A
`8/1995 Rotoloet al.
`5,491,651 A
`2/1996 Janik
`5.555.400 A
`9/1996 Carroll
`5,581,492 A
`12/1996 Janik
`5,617,477 A
`4/1997 Boyden
`
`Primary Examiner—Kevin Shaver
`Assistant Examiner—Michael Astorino
`(74) Altor,ney, Agent, or Firm—Metz Lewis LLC; Barry T.
`Friedman, Philip E. Levy
`(57)
`ABSTRACT
`
`A sensor array and computing apparatus are located 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. A series of rigid and flexible
`pods within which the sensors and computing apparatus may
`be housed are typically comprised of a rigid material having
`a minimum hardnessorrigidity mounted in conjunction with
`certain more flexible sections to allow relative movementof
`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.
`The system permits the dynamic monitoring of human
`physiological status datawithout substantial interference in
`human motion and flexibility. A processor is mounted within
`a pod location with or adjacent to a sensor pod location, or
`said processor may beelectrically connected to said sensor
`through a flexible material. Data in a processed or unproc-
`essed state is transmitted to an external monitor through
`certain wire-based or wireless technologies. There is option-
`ally provided a graphical, visual, audible, tactile or haptic
`output means so that certain data might be displayed or
`.
`;
`:
`otherwise communicated instantaneously to the wearer.
`
`119 Claims, 26 Drawing Sheets
`
`100
`
`“
`
`106 ——__—_—__>
`
`1
`
`APPLE 1020
`
`1
`
`APPLE 1020
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 1 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`2
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 2 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`R74
`
`73
`
`FIG. 2B
`
`3
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 3 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`Vel}
`
`oo
`
`4
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 4 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`100
`
`FIG. 4
`
`5
`
`

`

`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`128
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 5 of 26
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`R144
`
`FIG. 5A
`
`
`
`6
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 6 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`170
`
`1
`
`188
`
`FIG.6
`
`|180 cent
`
`168
`
`—_>|
`
`=©r
`
`/>
`
`——"7
`
`176
`
`7
`
`

`

`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 7 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`R214
`
`R213
`
`FIG. 7A
`
`
`
`8
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 8 of 26
`
`on
`
`9
`
`

`

`Sheet 9 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`10
`
`10
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 10 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`336
`
`R342
`
`
`11
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 11 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`zoe“
`
`OLE
`
`
`
`
`Km\eel=789\\\l$668°77=AB9tA\“\\99¢
`
`
`——saaooslRevet|
`aS
`
`QZt7G1y9eSO
`ozv9e
`
`r8e~_
`
`
`99€8899€
`
`99¢99E
`
`12
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 12 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
` vov
`
`960————_>
`
`
`
`VOl‘Sls
`
`vie
`
`a,
`
`Ze_|
`00!“Sls
`
`9Lbu
`
`Slr
`
`13
`
`13
`
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 13 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`< SL
`
`u
`
`
`
`Bg
`
`‘re
`
`6L
`
`L
`
`ln
`et
`
`14
`
`14
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 14 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`468—————~> ~
`
` .
`+
`
`<
`A
`Tr
`
`O
`Le
`
`R476
`
`aeee
`can
`rT”
`
`G
`LL
`
`~~f
`
`©*
`
`Oo
`J y¥a
`
`‘
`
`~
`~
`
`Oo
`LL
`
`15
`
`15
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 15 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`VLSH=olG=a O0OSY
`
`L_9LSHY
`
`
`
`del‘Sls
`
`9¢SHY
`
`JelOlas
`
`8cSU
`
`16
`
`16
`
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 16 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`<<
`wv
`bh
`
`LL
`
`FIG.14B
`
`R544
`
`nN
`
`oL
`
`o
`
`00
`
`oL
`
`o
`
`co
`wr
`LD
`
`oc
`
`530
`
`R542
`
`<e)
`co
`
`368
`
`o
`
`wz
`
`oL
`
`O
`
`©
`st
`LO
`x
`
`°0r
`
`e
`
`to
`
`00
`iO
`cc
`
`R556
`
`554
`
`17
`
`17
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 17 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`FIG. 15A
`
`
`
`FIG. 15B
`
`18
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 18 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`82S
`
`clOu
`
`88s
`
`Z09
`
`98S
`
`vog
`
`VOY
`
`<—_———_068——
`809—>86S——_>
`
`909
`
`19
`
`19
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 19 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`pa
`
`628
`
`R644
`
`620
`
` 630
`
`622
`
`624
`R636
`
`584
`
`626
`
`582
`
`R642
`
`“R638
`R640
`
`FIG. 17A
`
`
`
`FIG. 17B
`
`20
`
`20
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 20 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`FIG.18
`
`R692
`
`©L
`
`o)
`ice)
`
`21
`
`21
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 21 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
` 724
`
`726
`
`5g [R732
`
`722
`
`664
`
`FIG. 19C
`
`730
`
`668
`
`R702
`
`——
`FIG. 19A
`
`R704
`
`A770
`
`{
`
`R718
`717-~
`ic ‘
`19
`
`yr A712
`706
`
`708
`
`FIG. 19B
`
`R716
`
`22
`
`22
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 22 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`FIG.20
`
`740
`
`N w
`
`T M
`
`23
`
`23
`
`

`

`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 23 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`vol GioDid
`YCSYes
`9927?tgurudiz508_
`QJJHO22
`
`U.S. Patent
`
`VieSls
`
`JleOla
`
`c624
`
`v6LY
`
`24
`
`24
`
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 24 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`OLS
`
`cB
`
`808
`
`—_
`
`
`
`9088esy918
`
`LA.1
`
`FeeCO‘ols
`
`zoe
`
`wovesy
`
`Sc8———___>
`
`Les
`
`—>,_).
`
`608
`
`9E8uY
`
`25
`
`25
`
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 25 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`
`
`26
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Mar.4, 2003
`
`Sheet 26 of 26
`
`US 6,527,711 B1
`
`816
`
`916
`
`JOSS8001q
`
`JOAIB0O}
`
`vVIl6
`
`SeUIs
`
`Apog-uO
`
`JOSSe00i1d
`
`27
`
`27
`
`
`
`
`

`

`US 6,527,711 Bl
`
`1
`WEARABLE HUMAN PHYSIOLOGICAL
`DATA SENSORS AND REPORTING SYSTEM
`THEREFOR
`
`BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
`1. Field of the Invention
`
`10
`
`15
`
`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
`humanphysiological data and transmit such data and which
`are affixed to the human body in such a mannerso as not to
`interfere with normal body flexibility or movement.
`2. Description of the Prior Art
`Monitoring of human physiological status data has
`received a high and growing level of interest in a numberof
`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 mate-
`rial.
`
`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. Moni-
`toring 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.
`A numberof devices have been disclosed which attempt
`to enhance the portability and reduce the invasiveness of
`physiological sensors and the monitoring apparatus associ-
`ated therewith. Furthermore, considerable development has
`been made in the reduction in size of computing devices and
`other clectronic apparatus for usc in close association with
`the human body.
`Bornn, U.S. Pat. No. 5,353,793, issued Oct. 11, 1994,
`discloses a stretchable hamess-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.
`Aseries of circumferential straps are placed around the torso
`area with elongated shoulder supports supporting the cir-
`cumferential 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 mea-
`surement. 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 col-
`lected 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 modulusofelasticity close to that of skin to maintain
`the sensors in a uniform position.
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`28
`
`2
`issued Feb. 8, 1994,
`Janik, U.S. Pat. No. 5,285,398,
`discloses a flexible, wearable computer, in the form ofa 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 computcr apparatus
`which is comfortable for the user to wearaffixed to his or her
`body. The device incorporates a series of electrical apparatus
`divided into a plurality of small modules whichare electri-
`cally connected along a non-resilient belt.
`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 bodyin a more
`uniform manner.
`
`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 housedin a plurality of pockets linked
`by flexible circuitry and connectors within wearable gar-
`ment. 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.
`Newman,et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,244, issued Apr. 19,
`1994, discloses a compact, self-contained portable comput-
`ing 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 proximateto the
`user’s eye. A microphone is utilized to allow the user to
`execute commands without
`the utilization of his or her
`hands.
`
`A significant shortcoming of the prior art devices,
`however, ts 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.
`Whatis lacking in the art, therefore, is a sensor array and
`computing apparatus which is wearable on the human body
`in such a manner and placementthat the user’s motion and
`flexibility are not compromised.
`SUMMARYOF THE INVENTION
`
`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 suchthat
`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 com-
`prised of a rigid material having a minimum hardness or
`rigidity mounted in conjunction with certain more flexible
`
`28
`
`

`

`US 6,527,711 Bl
`
`3
`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 bodyalthoughit 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 mountedin 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 minimi-
`zation of the size and shape of any sensor or computing
`apparatus together with ils rigid housing would be consid-
`ered desirable to minimize interference with humanflexion
`and motion.
`
`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.
`The system is specifically intended to permit the mount-
`ing of one or more sensor devices, as well as electronic
`computing, apparatus, to permit the dynamic monitoring of
`human physiological status data without substantial inter-
`ference 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 humanfitness, conditioning and
`the further development of ubiquitous, sympathetic and
`pervasive wearable computing apparatus. It is specifically
`intended that
`the sensors be placed within the specifie
`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.
`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 alsa be provide
`as necessaryto 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 func-
`tion 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
`knownto 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
`
`
`
`10
`
`15
`
`5
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`29
`
`4
`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.
`In a second embodiment, human physiological status data
`is merely compiled within the apparatus mounted upon the
`human body andis transmitted, in an unprocessedstate, to
`an external monitoring means.
`In this embodiment, no
`onboard output or display means is contemplated.
`It is further specifically contemplated that the system, as
`described herein, forms a subset of a larger human physi-
`ological status data recording and reporting system for
`which the material described herein forms the data acquisi-
`tion and reporting segment.
`The rigid and flexible pods described herein are defined
`by a proximate space adjacent the human bodyat 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 inter-
`action 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 percent-
`age 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 thefifth to the
`ninety-fifth percentile of the population.
`There are thirteen primary factors which define the design
`of the wearable products. These are:
`1. Placement;
`. Definition of the shape of the object;
`. The dynamic structure of the object relating to human
`movementin proximity thereto;
`. Humanperception of the space proximate to the body;
`. Sizing as applied to the target group of body sizes;
`. Attachment means to the body;
`. Containment of objects within the defined space;
`. Weight;
`. Accessibility to humaninteraction;
`10. Sensory interaction with the body;
`11. Thermal interaction with the body;
`12. Aesthetics;
`13. Long-term effects on usability and wearability.
`The criteria used for determining the placement of the
`forms on the human body are:
`1. Areas that have relatively small size variance across
`adults;
`2. Areas that have low movement and flexibility, even
`when the body is in motion; and
`3. Areas that maximize available surface area or minimize
`surface irregularities.
`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.
`
`OoODAmf
`
`BwYL
`
`29
`
`

`

`5
`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
`comers creates safe, soft and stable forms.
`In certain
`circumstances, chamfering and scalloping of surfaces are
`FIG. 8A is a plan view ofa third pod of said rightmosthalf
`utilized to minimize specific interaction with proximate
`of a rib cage pod set. FIG. 8B is a side elevational view of
`bodyparts or physical objects andfacilitate extended contact
`the pod shownin FIG. 8A. FIG. 8C is a plan view of a fourth
`upon motion.
`pod of the same pod set. [IG. 8D is a side elevational view
`Human movement provides a significant constraint in
`of the pod shownin FIG. 8C. FIG. 8Eis a plan view ofa fifth
`terms of the placement and shaping of the forms defined
`pod of the same podset. FIG. 8F is a side elevational view
`herein. Defining the shapes with respect to these movements
`of the pod shown in FIG. 8E.
`can be accomplished in one of two ways: (1) by designing
`FIG. 9 is a plan view of the leftmost half of a lower
`around the more active areas of the joints, or (2) by creating
`torso-mounted podset.
`spaces, such as the aforementioned chamfering or
`FIG. 10A is a plan view of a first pod of a leftmost half
`scalloping, into which certain body parts can move.
`of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 10B isafirst side eleva-
`It is well known to those skilled in the art that the brain
`tional view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 10A. FIG. LOC is
`perceives an aura or proximate space around the bodythat
`a secondside elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
`should be considered the intimate space that is perceptually
`10A.
`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 con-
`tainmentformsis the variability of size, weight, and muscle
`mass of human physique. Certain static anthropometric data
`is utilized to achieve near universal application of forms
`FIG. 12Ais a plan view of a third pod of a leftmost half
`which are comprised of rigid and flexible sections. Flexible
`30
`of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 12B isafirst side eleva-
`areas are generally utilized to join certain solid forms or
`tional view of the podillustrated in FIG. 12A. FIG. 12C is
`extend exterior to the solid forms in wing-like protrusions.
`a secondside elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
`These wing-like protrusions may also incorporate a transi-
`12A.
`tion to attachment meansfor temporarily affixing the sensors
`and other apparatus to the body. It is specifically contem-
`FIG. 13A is a plan view of a fourth pod of a leftmost half
`35
`plated that in many applications, wrapping the form around
`of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 13B isafirst side eleva-
`the body, rather than using single point fastening systems
`tional view of the podillustrated in FIG. 13A. FIG. 13C is
`such as clips or shoulder straps,
`is preferred. While not
`a secondside elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
`13A.
`specifically disclosed, attachment systems are required for
`utility, which must accommodate various physical sizes and
`FIG. 14Ais a plan view ofa fifth pod of a leftmost half
`40
`shapes designed for size variations. This is typically
`of a torso-mounted pod set. FIG. 14B isafirst side eleva-
`obtained in two ways: the first being adjustability, such as
`tional view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 14A.
`straps with buckles; the second is through the use of stan-
`FIG. 15A is a plan view of the pod set of a forearm-
`dardized sizing systems. The latter has been adopted in the
`mounted sensor apparatus.
`preferred embodiment design to the extent that the rigid
`FIG. 15B is a side elevational view of the pod shown in
`pods are generally standardized. In each embodiment, con-
`FIG. 15A.
`ventionalresilient fabrics maybeutilized to affix the pods to
`the body. Alternatively, and preferably,
`the pods may be
`incorporated into a garment.
`These and other objectives, features and advantagesof 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
`
`10
`
`15
`
`45
`
`50
`
`All drawings identified herein are labeled for direction-
`ality and physical reference as applied to the human body
`itself. E.g., references to “right” refer to the right-hand side
`of the wearer.
`
`FIG. 1 is a plan view of a collar embodiment of a pod.
`FIG. 2A is a side elevational view of a first pod as
`illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2B is a plan view of the same pod.
`FIG. 3A is a plan view of a second pod asillustrated in
`FIG. 1. FIG. 3B is a side elevational view of the same pod.
`FIG. 4 is a plan view of a tricep pod embodiment.
`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.
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`30
`
`US 6,527,711 Bl
`
`6
`FIG. 6 is a plan view of the leftmost half of a rib cage
`embodimentof a podset.
`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 samefirst pod. FIG. 7C is
`a plan view of a second pod of the samerightmost podset.
`FIG. 7D is a side elevational view of the pod illustrated in
`FIG. 7C.
`
`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 eleva-
`tional view of the pod illustrated in FIG. 11A. FIG. 11C is
`a secondside elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
`JA.
`
`
`
`FIG. 16 is a plan view of a thigh-mounted embodiment of
`a pod.
`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.
`FIG. 18 is a plan view of a shin-mounted embodiment of
`a pod set.
`FIG. 19A is a plan view ofa first pod mounted on the pod
`sct illustrated in FIG. 18. FIG. 19B is a side clevational view
`
`of the pod illustrated in FIG. 19A. FIG. 19C is a plan view
`of a second podillustrated in the pod set of FIG. 18. FIG.
`19D is a side elevational view of the pod illustrated in FIG.
`19C.
`
`FIG. 20 is a plan view of a foot-mounted embodiment of
`a pod set.
`FIG. 21Ais a plan view ofa first pod of the foot-mounted
`pod setillustrated 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.
`
`30
`
`

`

`US 6,527,711 Bl
`
`7
`FIG. 22 is a plan viewof a cranium-mounted embodiment
`of a pod set.
`FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the pod set illus-
`trated in FIG. 22.
`
`FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of a portion of the pod
`set illustrated in FIG. 22.
`
`FIG. 25 is a block diagram of the clectrical componcnts
`of the system.
`DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED
`EMBODIMENTS
`
`With respectto 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 purposcs. All the
`rigid form edges illustrated have radii of at least /" and are
`variable up to %4". Chamfers, scallops and bevelsareat least
`3° but are variable and can sweep to 50° in certain circum-
`stances 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 sensororrelated
`electronic material, it is preferable that the pads be com-
`prised of an insulating material. Flexible sections are pref-
`erably 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 prefer-
`ably 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.
`Referring now to FIG. 1, the collar or neck embodiment
`of a podsetis 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 connect-
`ing 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
`io 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 4 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 % inch larger than the pods
`having a boundary of approximately % 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 22Bare 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 Lacing edge R48
`has a dimension of 0.94 inches. Left and right side perim-
`eters of flexible section 24 have a radius R54 of 4.84. Radius
`
`R48transitions 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.
`
`10
`
`15
`
`30
`
`35
`
`40
`
`45
`
`50
`
`55
`
`60
`
`65
`
`8
`Referring nowto 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.
`
`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 dimen-
`sions as pod 22B in a mirrored embodiment. Pod 22B is
`provided with chamfer section 81 having a width 87 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 whichtransitions to radius section R82 having
`a dimension of 4.69 inches. Referring now to FIG. 3B, pod
`22B is provided with a tapered cross-secti