Prompt device and method for treating walking disorders

Abstract

A device for prompting a user to take a step when experiencing a walking disorder (e.g., gait freezing) is disclosed. The device is configured to prompt the user using visual and / or auditory prompts. The device includes an activation module and a prompt module. The prompt module includes a metronome and a laser light source. The device is mounted on an auxiliary mobile device or a user.

Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 731,713, filed on September 14, 2018, entitled “Portable Device For Cane Or Walker,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to devices and methods for treating users suffering from neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to devices and methods for treating freezing of gait (FOG) or movement disorders. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0004] The embodiments disclosed herein will become more readily understood from the following description and appended claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only typical embodiments, which will be described with additional explanation and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0005] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a prompting device.

[0006] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded perspective view of a prompting device.

[0007] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of the control system of the prompt device.

[0008] Figure 4 It is installed on the walker Figure 1 A perspective view of a prompting device.

[0009] Figure 5 It is mounted on the crutch Figure 1 A perspective view of a prompting device.

[0010] Fig. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a prompting device.

[0011] Figure 6B is mounted to the user's belt Fig. 6A A perspective view of a prompting device.

[0012] Fig. 7A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a prompting device.

[0013] Figure 7B It is mounted on the user's wrist Fig. 7A A perspective view of a prompting device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] Gait irregularities, such as freezing of gait (FOG) or dyskinesia, can occur in people with neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. Especially for patients with Parkinson's disease, gait irregularities often occur when walking in familiar environments, around narrow corners or doorways, and often occur due to brief, unexpected inability to walk. This not only interrupts daily life but also often causes accidents (e.g., falls).

[0015] The device for alleviating FOG or other walking disorders may include a prompting device, which includes an activation module and a prompting module. The activation module can be arranged near the handle of an auxiliary mobile device such as a walker or a cane so that the activation module is within easy reach of the user's fingers. The activation module can be configured to activate auditory prompts and visual prompts. The auditory prompt can be a click or squeak emitted by a metronome, and the visual prompt can be a line projected onto the walking surface by a laser light source. The prompting module can be adjustably coupled to the lower part of the front or rear legs of the walker or the shaft of the cane. The prompting module can include a laser light source, a metronome and a speaker. A potentiometer can control the rhythm of the metronome, and another potentiometer can control the volume output of the speaker. The laser light source can be adjustable relative to the longitudinal axis of the prompting module, so that the position of the projection line relative to the user can be adjusted. A cable with adjustable length can couple the activation module to the prompting module so that the modules are in electronic communication.

[0016] In use, the device for alleviating FOG can be coupled with an auxiliary mobile device, wherein the activation module is located near the user's finger and the prompt module is located above the walking surface. The device power can be turned on by activating the power switch on the prompt module. The rhythm frequency of the metronome and the volume of the speaker can be adjusted to a suitable rate and volume by rotating the corresponding knobs on the prompt module. The user can activate the metronome or the laser light source, or both, by pressing the corresponding button on the activation module before starting the walk. Alternatively, after experiencing an episode of FOG, the user can activate the metronome or the laser light source, or both.

[0017] The embodiments can be understood by reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein similar parts are represented by similar reference numerals throughout the text. It will be readily understood by those of ordinary skill in the art who benefit from the present disclosure that the components of the embodiments can be arranged and designed in various different configurations, as generally described and shown in the drawings herein. Therefore, as shown in the drawings, the following more detailed description of various embodiments is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, but is only representative of various embodiments. Although various aspects of the embodiments are shown in the drawings, unless otherwise specified, the drawings do not have to be drawn to scale.

[0018] It will be appreciated that various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. Many of these features can be used alone and / or in combination with each other.

[0019] The phrases "coupled to" and "in communication with" refer to any form of interaction between two or more entities, including mechanical, electrical, magnetic, electromagnetic, fluid, and thermal interactions. Two components can be coupled or in communication with each other even if they are not in direct contact with each other. For example, two components can be coupled or in communication with each other through an intermediate component.

[0020] The directional terms "distal" and "proximal" have their ordinary meanings in the art. That is, the distal end of a medical device refers to the end of the device that is farthest from the physician or user during use. The proximal end refers to the opposite end, or the end that is closest to the physician during use. As specifically applied to the prompt module of a prompt device, the proximal end of the prompt module refers to the end that is farthest from the walking surface, while the distal end refers to the opposite end, the end that is closest to the walking surface.

[0021] Figures 1 to 7B Several different views of the prompting device and related components are shown. In some views, each device may be coupled to other components not included in each view or shown with other components. In addition, in some views, only selected components are shown to provide detailed information on the relationship of the components. Some components may be shown in multiple views, but are not discussed in conjunction with each view. The disclosure provided in conjunction with any figure is relevant and applicable to the disclosure provided in conjunction with any other figure or embodiment.

[0022] Figures 1 to 5 One embodiment of a prompting device 100 is depicted. In the embodiment shown, the prompting device 100 includes three broad groups of components; each group may have many sub-components and parts. The three broad groups of components are: activation module 110, prompting module 130 and cable 160.

[0023] like Figure 1 to Figure 2As shown, the activation module 110 includes a housing 111, an auditory cue activation switch or a metronome activation switch 114, a visual cue activation switch or a laser light source activation switch 117, and a universal serial bus (USB) port 112. In an embodiment, the activation module 110 may include a music cue activation switch. The housing 111 may be in the shape of a square box having a side dimension of approximately 1.25 inches and a depth dimension of approximately 0.75 inches or other suitable dimensions within the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the housing 111 may be formed into a circular, rectangular, oval, or other geometric shapes that are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The housing 111 may include a front and a rear portion coupled using any suitable technique (e.g., snap fit, friction fit, welding, bonding, etc.). The housing 111 may be formed of any suitable plastic material (e.g., polycarbonate, polypropylene, acrylonitrile, butadiene, styrene, acrylic, polyurethane, etc., or a metal material such as steel, aluminum, etc.). The housing 111 may be formed using any suitable manufacturing method, such as machining, thermal injection molding, reaction injection molding, thermoforming, stamping, casting, 3D printing, multi-jet fusion, and the like.

[0024] The auditory cue activation switch 114 and the visual cue activation switch 117 are arranged in the housing 111. The switches 114, 117 are configured to activate the metronome 144 and the laser light source 141 of the cue module 130, respectively. The switches 114, 117 may each include a button 115, 118 arranged in the front of the housing 111. The buttons 115, 118 may be configured to be pressed by the user to engage the switches 114, 117 when it is desired to activate the metronome 144 and / or the laser light source 141. The auditory cue activation mark 116 may be arranged on the button 115 or near the button 115 on the housing 111. The mark 116 may represent a walking person or any other suitable image. The visual cue activation mark 119 may be arranged on the button 118 or near the button 118 on the housing 111. The mark 119 may represent a universal symbol of a laser (e.g., a starburst) or any other suitable image. In another embodiment, an indicator light may be arranged near the buttons 115, 118 to provide an indication of the activation of the auditory cue activation switch 114 and / or the visual cue activation switch 117. In other embodiments, the activation module 110 may use any appropriate wireless local area network technology to communicate electrically with an external control device (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet computer, etc.), wherein the external control device is used to activate the metronome 144 and the laser light source 141.

[0025] The USB port 112 is disposed on one side of the housing 111. The USB port 112 is configured to couple with the USB connector 161 of the cable 160 so that the activation module 110 and the prompt module 130 are in electrical communication. In other embodiments, the activation module 110 and the prompt module 130 may communicate wirelessly using any suitable wireless LAN networking technology. In some embodiments, the activation module 110 receives power from the prompt module 130 via the USB port 112. In other embodiments, the activation module 110 may include a power source (e.g., a battery).

[0026] The housing 111 includes mushroom-shaped protrusions 113 extending from opposite sides of the housing 111. The protrusions 113 can be configured to facilitate coupling the activation module 110 to the auxiliary mobile device 180. (See Figure 4 and Figure 5 ). The elastomeric member 152 can be coupled to the protrusion 113 and extend around a portion of the assistive mobility device 180. In other embodiments, the protrusion 113 can be in the form of a hook, a clip, an elbow, etc. In other embodiments, the protrusion 113 can include a hook and loop material configured to couple with a hook and loop tape material.

[0027] As in Figure 1 to Figure 2 As depicted in the illustrated embodiment of the present invention, the prompt module 130 includes a housing 131, a metronome 144, a laser light source 141, a power switch 132, a power supply 147, a processor 146, a metronome potentiometer 135, a speaker 145, a speaker volume potentiometer 138, and a micro USB port 133. The housing 131 may be in the shape of a rectangular box having a length dimension of approximately 4.00 inches, a width dimension of approximately 2.00 inches, and a depth dimension of approximately 1.75 inches or other suitable dimensions within the scope of the present disclosure. In other embodiments, the housing 131 may be formed in a circular, rectangular, oval shape or other geometric shapes that are also within the scope of the present disclosure. The housing 131 may include a front portion and a rear portion that are coupled using any suitable technique (e.g., snap fit, friction fit, welding, bonding, etc.). The housing 131 may be formed of any suitable plastic material, such as polycarbonate, polypropylene, acrylonitrile, butadiene, styrene, acrylic, polyurethane, etc., or a metal material, such as steel, aluminum, etc. The housing 131 may be formed using any suitable manufacturing method, such as machining, thermal injection molding, reaction injection molding, thermoforming, stamping, casting, 3D printing, multi-jet fusion, etc. The housing 131 may include a mounting bracket 150. In other embodiments, the housing 131 may include a slide disposed on a side of the housing 131. The slide is configured to slidably engage with the mounting bracket 150.

[0028] The metronome 144 is disposed within the housing 131 and is electrically coupled to the auditory cue activation switch 114 of the activation module 110 via a cable 160. A metronome potentiometer 135 is coupled to the metronome 144 and is configured to adjust the tempo output of the metronome 144. The metronome potentiometer 135 can be configured to adjust the tempo of the metronome 144 between about zero and about 250 beats per minute, between about 10 and about 100 beats per minute, and between about 20 and about 100 beats per minute. A metronome potentiometer knob 136 is coupled to the metronome potentiometer 135 and is configured to be engaged by a user to adjust the tempo. A marker 137 can be disposed on the knob 136 or adjacent to the knob 136 on the housing 131. The marker 137 can be an image of a walker or other suitable image within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0029] The speaker 145 may be disposed within the housing 131. The speaker 145 may be in electrical communication with the metronome 144 and the speaker volume potentiometer 138. The speaker volume potentiometer 138 may be configured to adjust the output volume of the speaker 145 from about 50 decibels to about 65 decibels. The sound output from the metronome 144 through the speaker 145 may be a bang, a screech, a chime, a ding, a click, a squeak, a sound bar, an African double-tone ring, etc. In another embodiment, the metronome 144 may communicate with an external device such as a headset, an earbud, a smart phone, a tablet computer, a hearing aid, etc. using any suitable wireless local area network technology. The speaker volume potentiometer knob 139 is coupled to the metronome potentiometer 138 and is configured to be engaged by a user to adjust the output volume of the speaker 145. The indicia 140 may be disposed on the knob 139 or adjacent to the knob 139 on the housing 131. The indicia 140 may be an image of a standard speaker symbol or other suitable images within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0030] In other embodiments, the speaker 145 may be configured to output music or other recorded sounds configured to provide a rhythm or beat. The music or other recorded sounds may be stored in the memory of the processor 146; wirelessly communicated to the processor 146 from an external device such as a smart phone, tablet computer, etc. using any suitable local area network networking technology; or stored in the memory of an external storage device (e.g., a USB memory stick or flash drive).

[0031] In the illustrated embodiment, the laser light source 141 is disposed at the distal end portion of the prompt module 130. The laser light source 141 may include a laser diode configured to emit red, orange, orange-red, blue, green, yellow, purple, etc. laser beams. Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the laser beam can be projected onto the walking surface 103 as a projection line 143. In some embodiments, the laser light source 141 can project two, three, four or more projection lines 143. The projection line 143 can be a solid line, a segmented or dotted line, a dashed line, or any other suitable form of providing a prompt to the user. In some embodiments, the prompt module 130 may include a laser light source potentiometer configured to adjust the intensity of the laser light source 141 so that the projection line 143 is visible to the user in a dark as well as a bright environment. In another embodiment, the prompt module 130 may include a light sensor configured to automatically adjust the intensity of the laser light source 141 depending on the lighting of the surrounding environment.

[0032] As in Figure 1 to Figure 2 As depicted in the illustrated embodiment of , the laser light source 141 can be disposed within a holder 149 and configured to be rotatably adjusted relative to the central longitudinal axis of the prompt module 130. When the laser light source 141 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis of the prompt module 130, the laser light source 141 can be in a neutral position. When the laser light source 141 is rotated and adjusted forward up to about 80 degrees, the laser light source 141 can be in a forward position so that the laser light source 141 can project the central longitudinal axis forward. When the laser light source 141 is rotated and adjusted backward up to about 80 degrees, the laser light source 141 can be in a backward position so that the laser light source 141 can project the central longitudinal axis backward. The position of the laser light source 141 can be indicated by a position mark 142. The position mark 142 can have any suitable form, such as a protruding line, a groove, a printed line, etc.

[0033] The power switch 132 may be disposed at the proximal end of the prompt module 130 or at any other suitable surface. The power switch 132 may be in the form of a rocker switch, wherein when the power switch 132 is pressed toward one side, the prompt module 130 and the activation module 110 are powered on; and when the power switch 132 is pressed toward the opposite side, the prompt module 130 and the activation module 110 are powered off. In other embodiments, the power switch 132 may be in the form of any suitable on / off type switch, such as a button, a toggle switch, a motion sensor, etc. The micro USB port 133 may be disposed at the proximal end of the prompt module 130 or at any other suitable location. The micro USB port 133 may be configured to receive a micro USB connector 162 of the cable 160. The power supply 147 may be disposed within the housing 131. The power supply 147 may be a battery pack of one, two, three or more rechargeable batteries. When one end of the cable 160 is coupled to the prompt module 130 and the other end is coupled to the power supply, the power supply 147 may be charged through the micro USB port 133 and the cable 160. Certain components of the prompt module 130 may be alternatively included in the activation module 110. For example, another embodiment of the prompt device may include a power switch 132, a metronome potentiometer 138, a speaker volume potentiometer 138, etc.

[0034] Figure 1 A cable 160 of the illustrated embodiment of the prompting device 100 is depicted. The cable 160 is shown to include a USB connector 161, a micro USB connector 162, an adjustable member 163, and an elongated insulated wire 164. The cable 160 is configured to provide electrical communication between the activation module 110 and the prompting module 130. The USB connector 161 is disposed at one end of the insulated wire 164 and is configured to couple with the USB port 112 of the activation module 110. The USB connector 161 is also configured to couple with an external device such as a battery charging source, an external control device (e.g., a smart phone), etc. The micro USB connector 162 is disposed at an opposite end of the insulated wire 164 and is configured to couple with the micro USB port 133 of the prompting module 130. The adjustable member 163 is coupled to the insulated wire 164 and is configured to automatically adjust the length of the cable 160 (longer or shorter) as the distance between the activation module 110 and the prompting module 130 changes. The adjustable member 163 can be configured to remove slack from the cable 160 to prevent the cable 160 from being accidentally caught when using the reminder device 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable member 163 is in the form of a retractable reel. In other embodiments, the cable 160 can include any suitable type of adjustable member 163, either automatic or manual, such as a ratchet mechanism, a buckle, etc.

[0035] In another embodiment, the prompt device 100 may include a sensor configured to monitor the user's walking speed, the number of steps taken, the number of FOG episodes, the time utilization of the prompt device 100, etc. The sensor may be arranged in the activation module 110 and / or the prompt module 130. Alternatively, the sensor may be coupled to the user and electrically coupled to the prompt device 100 using hardwire or wireless communication technology. The data collected by the sensor may be stored in a memory or removable storage component of the prompt device 100 and subsequently uploaded to a computer, smart phone, etc. for analysis. Alternatively, the data may be uploaded from the sensor to a computer, smart phone, etc. in real time using hardwire or wireless communication technology.

[0036] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a control system 170 of the prompting device 100. The control system 170 includes the various components of the activation module 110 and the prompting module 130 as previously described. Figure 3 An activation module 110 is shown that includes a metronome activation switch 114 and a laser activation switch 117. The laser activation switch 117 is in electrical communication with a laser light source 141 of a prompt module 130. When the laser activation switch 117 is actuated by a user, the laser light source 141 is activated. The metronome activation switch 114 is in electrical communication with a processor 146 of the prompt module 130. The processor 146 may be in electrical communication with the metronome 144. In another embodiment, the processor 146 and the metronome 144 may be an integrated unit. The metronome potentiometer 135 is in electrical communication with the processor 146 and the metronome 144. The speaker volume potentiometer 138 is in electrical communication with the processor 146 and the speaker 145. The power supply 147 is in electrical communication with the power switch 132 so that when the power switch 132 is actuated, power may be provided to the laser light source 141, the processor 146, the metronome 144, and the speaker 145.

[0037] Figure 4 The prompting device 100 is shown coupled to an auxiliary mobility device 180. Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the assistive mobility device 180 is in the form of a walker 181. The prompting device 100 is shown coupled to the walker 181 via a cable 160 extending between the modules 110, 130. The walker 181 includes a pair of front legs 182, a pair of rear legs 183, and a pair of handles 184 configured to be grasped by the user 101. As shown, the activation module 110 is adjustably coupled to an upper portion of the walker 181 adjacent to the left or right handles 184, such that the activation module 110 is within easy reach of the user's 101 fingers. The activation module 110 can be coupled to the walker 181 using mushroom-shaped protrusions 113 and elastomeric members 152. Other coupling techniques, such as hook and loop straps, adhesives, buckle straps, etc. are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0038] The prompt module 130 may be adjustably coupled to the lower portion of the left or right front leg 182 of the walker 181. In other embodiments, the prompt module 130 may be adjustably coupled to the lower portion of the left or right rear leg of the walker 181. The prompt module 130 may be coupled to the walker 181 using a mounting bracket 150. The mounting bracket 150 may be coupled to the walker 181 using an elastomeric component 152 that couples to a hook 151 disposed on a side of the mounting bracket 150. Other coupling techniques, such as hook and loop straps, adhesives, buckle straps, etc. are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] The height of the prompting module 130 above the walking surface 103 can be adjusted so that the intensity and length of the projection line 143 can be set to be easily seen by the user 101. The position of the projection line 143 relative to the walker 181 can be adjusted by rotating the laser light source 141 forward to position the projection line 143 in front of the walker 181 so that the user 101 can be prompted to take a longer step than when the laser light source 141 is in a neutral position. The laser light source 141 can be rotated backward to position the projection line 143 behind the front leg 182 so that the user 101 can be prompted to take a shorter step than when the laser light source 141 is in a neutral position. The prompting module 130 can be oriented so that the laser light source 141 projects to the left or right.

[0040] Figure 5 The prompting device 100 is shown coupled to an auxiliary mobile device 180. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the auxiliary mobility device 180 is in the form of a cane 190. The prompting device 100 is shown coupled to the cane 190 via a cable 160 extending between the modules 110, 130. The cane 190 includes a shaft 191 and a handle 192 disposed at a proximal end of the shaft 191 and configured to be gripped by the user 101. As shown, the activation module 110 is adjustably coupled to an upper portion of the shaft 191 adjacent the handle 192, such that the activation module 110 is within easy reach of the user's 101 fingers. The activation module 110 can be coupled to the cane 190 using mushroom-shaped protrusions 113 and elastomeric members 152. Other coupling techniques, such as hook and loop straps, adhesives, buckle straps, etc. are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0041] The prompt module 130 can be adjustably coupled to the lower portion of the shaft 191 of the cane 190. The prompt module 130 can be coupled to the cane 190 using a mounting bracket 150. The mounting bracket 150 can include a sliding receiver (not shown) configured to slidably receive a slider 148 of the prompt module 130. The mounting bracket 150 can be coupled to the cane 190 by using an elastomeric member 152 that is coupled to a hook 151 disposed on a side of the mounting bracket 150. Other coupling techniques, such as hook and loop tape, adhesives, buckle straps, etc. are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] The height of the prompting module 130 above the walking surface 103 can be adjusted so that the intensity and length of the projection line 143 can be set to be easily seen by the user 101. The position of the projection line 143 relative to the cane 190 can be adjusted by rotating the laser light source 141 forward to position the projection line 143 in front of the cane 190 so that the user 101 can be prompted to take longer steps than when the laser light source 141 is in the neutral position. The laser light source 141 can be rotated backward to position the projection line 143 behind the axis 191 so that the user 101 can be prompted to take shorter steps than when the laser light source 141 is in the neutral position. The prompting module 130 can be oriented so that the laser light source 141 projects to the left or right to promote right-handed and left-handed use of the cane 190 by the user 101.

[0043] In use, the prompting device can be coupled to the auxiliary mobile device. The activation module can be coupled to the upper portion of the auxiliary mobile device adjacent to the user's finger. The prompting module can be coupled to the lower portion of the auxiliary mobile device. The height of the prompting module relative to the walking surface can be adjusted to allow the user to easily observe the projection line on the walking surface. The cable can be coupled to the activation module at one end and to the prompting module at the opposite end so that the modules are in electrical communication. The laser light source can be oriented in a neutral position in which the projection line is projected in the plane of the longitudinal axis of the prompting module. Alternatively, the laser light source can be oriented in front of or behind the longitudinal axis so that the projection line is projected in front of or behind the plane of the longitudinal axis.

[0044] The user can activate the laser light source by pressing a laser activation button with a finger to project a projection line onto the walking surface. Alternatively, or in parallel with activating the laser light source, the user can press a metronome activation button with a finger to activate a metronome. The user can increase or decrease the rhythm of the metronome by rotating a knob. The output volume of the speaker can be increased or decreased by the user rotating a second knob. After activating the laser light source and / or metronome, the user can start walking with the aid of an auxiliary mobile device. When experiencing a FOG attack, the user can be reminded or prompted to take a step by projecting an image and / or a metronome output from a speaker. In another embodiment, the laser light source and / or metronome can be activated by the user after experiencing a FOG attack, thereby reminding or prompting the user to take a step.

[0045] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B An embodiment of a prompting device 200 is depicted that is similar in some respects to the prompting device 100 described above. Therefore, like features are represented by like reference numerals, and the leading numeral is increased to "2". For example, FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 may include a prompt module 230, which may be similar in some respects to Figure 1 Therefore, the above disclosures on the features of similar identifiers will not be repeated hereafter. Figures 1 to 5 Specific features of the prompting device 100 and related components shown in the drawings may not be shown or identified by reference numerals in the drawings, or discussed in detail in the written description below. However, such features may be clearly the same or substantially the same as features depicted in other embodiments and / or described with respect to such embodiments. Therefore, the relevant description of these features also applies to the features of the prompting device 200 and in the drawings. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The relevant components are depicted in . Figures 1 to 5 Any suitable combination of the features and variations thereof described in the prompting device 100 and related components shown in FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B The prompting device 200 and related components are used together, and vice versa. The mode of the present disclosure is also applicable to the additional embodiments depicted in the subsequent drawings and described below, in which the leading digits can be further incremented.

[0046] FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B Another embodiment of a prompting device 200 is depicted. The prompting device 200 may be substantially an integration of the activation module 110 and the prompting module 130 of the prompting device 100. FIG. 6A to FIG. 6BIn the illustrated embodiment, the prompt device 200 includes a prompt module 230. The prompt module 230 includes a housing 231, a power switch 232, a laser activation switch 217, a metronome activation switch 214, a metronome potentiometer 235, a speaker volume potentiometer 238, a metronome 244, a processor 246, a speaker 245, a laser light source 241, and a power source 247. The functions of each of the functions listed in the prompt module 230 are similar to the functions of similar features of the prompt module 130 as previously described.

[0047] The housing 231 includes a belt hook 253 disposed on a rear side of the housing 231. The belt hook 253 is configured to facilitate coupling the prompting device 200 to the user 201, such as Figure 6B As shown. The belt hook 253 can extend on a belt, a waistband, a pocket, etc. Figure 6B As shown, the prompt device 200 can be coupled to the middle of the user 201 so that the prompt device 200 faces the front of the user 201. In another embodiment, the prompt device 200 can be coupled to the user's legs, chest, feet, etc. The laser light source 241 can be configured to project a projection line 243 onto the walking surface 203. The projection line 243 can extend in front of the feet of the user 201 and perpendicular to the direction of travel. The distance from the feet of the user 201 to the projection line 243 can be adjusted by adjusting the projection angle of the laser light source 241 relative to the transverse longitudinal axis of the prompt device 200.

[0048] In use, the user 201 can couple the prompting device 200 to a belt, waistband, or pocket using the belt hook 253. The power switch 232 can be activated. The laser activation switch 217 and / or the metronome activation switch 214 can be activated. The metronome potentiometer 235 can be adjusted to set a desired tempo. The speaker volume potentiometer 238 can be adjusted to set a desired output volume from the speaker 245. The projection angle of the laser light source 241 can be adjusted to set a desired distance from the projection line 243 to the feet of the user 201. When the user 201 experiences an episode of FOG, the prompting device 200 can prompt or remind the user 201 to take a step.

[0049] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B Another embodiment of a prompting device 300 is depicted. The prompting device 300 may be substantially an integration of the activation module 110 and the prompting module 130 of the prompting device 100. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7BIn the illustrated embodiment, the prompting device 300 includes a prompting module 330. The prompting module 330 includes a housing 331, a power switch 332, a laser activation switch 317, a metronome activation switch 314, a metronome potentiometer 335, a speaker volume potentiometer 338, a metronome 344, a processor 346, a speaker 345, a laser light source 341, and a power source 347. The functionality of each of the listed features of the prompting module 330 is similar to the functionality of similar features of the prompting module 130 as previously described.

[0050] The housing 331 includes a wrist strap 354 coupled to the housing 331. The strap 354 is configured to facilitate coupling the prompting device 300 to the user 301, such as Figure 7B As shown. The fixing strap 354 can be any suitable strap configured to be releasably fixed to the user 101. For example, the fixing strap 354 can include a hook and loop material, a buckle, an elastic material, etc. The prompt device 300 can be coupled to the left wrist or the right wrist of the user 301 so that the laser light source 341 faces the front of the user 301. The laser light source 341 can be configured to project a projection line 343 onto the walking surface 303. The projection line 343 can extend in front of the feet of the user 301 and perpendicular to the direction of travel. The distance from the feet of the user 301 to the projection line 343 can be adjusted by adjusting the angle of the lower arm relative to the body of the user 301.

[0051] In use, the user 301 may couple the prompting device 300 to the wrist using the securing strap 354. The power switch 332 may be activated. The laser activation switch 317 and / or the metronome activation switch 314 may be activated. The metronome potentiometer 335 may be adjusted to set a desired tempo. The speaker volume potentiometer 338 may be adjusted to set a desired output volume from the speaker 345. The projection angle of the laser light source 341 may be adjusted to set a desired distance from the projection line 343 to the feet of the user 301 by adjusting the angle of the lower arm relative to the body of the user 301. The prompting device 300 may prompt or remind the user 301 to take a step when the user 301 is experiencing an episode of FOG.

[0052] Any method disclosed herein includes one or more steps or actions for performing the described method. Method steps and / or actions can be interchangeable with each other. In other words, unless the correct operation of the embodiment requires a specific sequence of steps or actions, the order and / or use of specific steps and / or actions can be modified.

[0053] References to approximation are made throughout the specification, such as by use of the term "substantially." For each such reference, it is understood that, in some embodiments, the value, feature, or characteristic may be specified approximately. For example, where qualifiers such as "approximately" and "substantially" are used, these terms include within their scope the qualifier without the modifier. For example, where the term "substantially perpendicular" is recited with respect to a feature, it is understood that in further embodiments, the feature may have a precisely perpendicular configuration.

[0054] Similarly, in the above description of the embodiments, various features are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of simplifying the disclosure. However, this method of disclosure should not be interpreted as reflecting the following intention: any claim requires more features than those explicitly recited in the claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, inventive aspects lie in a combination of less than all features of any single aforementioned disclosed embodiment.

[0055] The claims following this written disclosure are hereby expressly incorporated into this written disclosure, with each claim independently serving as a separate embodiment. This disclosure includes all permutations of independent claims and their dependent claims. Moreover, additional embodiments that can be derived from the attached independent claims and dependent claims are also expressly incorporated into this written description.

[0056] Without further elaboration, it is believed that those skilled in the art can use the foregoing description to make the most of the present invention. The claims and embodiments disclosed herein should be interpreted as being illustrative and exemplary only, and not limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. It is obvious to those of ordinary skill in the art with the help of the present disclosure that the details of the above-described embodiments may be changed without departing from the basic principles disclosed herein. In other words, various modifications and improvements of the embodiments specifically disclosed in the above description are within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, those skilled in the art may change the order of the steps or actions of the methods disclosed herein. In other words, unless a specific order of steps or actions is required for the proper operation of the embodiment, the order or use of specific steps or actions may be modified. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A device for treating walking disorders, comprising: An activation module configured to physically couple and decouple to: a walking support structure in a first position, or The user's belt; The activation module comprises: Auditory cue activation switch; Visual cue to activate the switch; and A prompt module configured to be physically coupled and decoupled to: the walking support structure at a second position different from the first position, or said belt of said user; The prompt module comprises: A metronome having an adjustable tempo; a tempo control potentiometer coupled to the metronome and configured to adjust the adjustable tempo frequency; Volume control potentiometer; and A laser light source, wherein the laser light source is configured to project a laser image onto a walking surface.

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the activation module is configured to physically couple and decouple to the walking support structure at the first position so that the auditory cue activation switch and the visual cue activation switch are within reach of the user's fingers.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the prompt module is configured to physically couple and decouple to the walking support structure at the second location below the walking support structure. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the laser image is a line.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the laser light source is adjustable relative to a central longitudinal axis of the prompting module.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the laser image is configured to be rotationally adjustable at an angle of 0 to 80 degrees in front of the central longitudinal axis of the prompt module or at an angle of 0 to 80 degrees behind the central longitudinal axis of the prompt module.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the laser light source is rotationally adjustable about a longitudinal axis of the prompting module.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the activation module and the prompting module each include a fixing member configured to be physically coupled and decoupled to the walking support structure or the waist belt of the user.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the securing member comprises an elastic band.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the auditory cue activation switch and the visual cue activation switch comprise pushable buttons. The device of claim 10 , wherein the pushable button comprises indicia.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the activation module further comprises a music prompt activation switch.

13. The device of claim 1, wherein the tempo control potentiometer and the volume control potentiometer comprise knobs configured to be rotated by one or more fingers of a user.

14. The device of claim 1, wherein the volume control potentiometer is coupled to a speaker disposed within the prompt module, and wherein the volume control potentiometer is configured to adjust an output volume of the speaker.

15. The device of claim 1, wherein the metronome is configured to wirelessly communicate with any one of headphones, earbuds, smart phones, tablet computers, and hearing aids.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a cable disposed between the activation module and the prompting module to electrically couple the activation module to the prompting module.

17. The device of claim 16, wherein the length of the cable is adjustable.

18. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the cable comprises a USB disposed adjacent one end and a micro USB disposed adjacent an opposite end, and The USB is coupled to the activation module, and the micro USB is coupled to the prompt module.

19. The device of claim 1, wherein the activation module and the prompting module are electrically coupled via wireless communication.

20. The device of claim 1, wherein the prompt module further comprises a power switch.

21. The device of claim 1, wherein the prompt module further comprises a power source.

22. The device of claim 21, wherein the power source comprises a rechargeable battery.

23. The device of claim 1, wherein the activation module and the prompt module are integrated into a control module.

24. The device according to claim 23, wherein the control module is coupled to the user and arranged at any one of a waist, a wrist, a leg, a chest and a head of the user.

25. The apparatus of any one of claims 1-24, wherein the waist belt comprises a belt.

26. A system for treating walking disorders, comprising: Prompt equipment, including: Activate a module that is configured to couple to: a walking support structure in a first position, or The user's belt; The activation module comprises: A metronome activation switch; and Laser light source activation switch; A prompt module configured to be coupled to: the walking support structure at a second position different from the first position, or said belt of said user; The prompt module comprises: A metronome having an adjustable tempo; a metronome control potentiometer coupled to the metronome and configured to adjust the adjustable rhythm frequency; Speaker volume potentiometer; and a laser light source, wherein the laser light source is configured to project a laser image onto a walking surface; and A cable is arranged between the activation module and the prompting module.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the walking support structure is any one of a cane, a crutch, and a walker.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein the prompting device is adjustably coupled adjacent an upper portion of the walking support structure and the prompting module is adjustably coupled adjacent a lower portion of the walking support structure.

29. The system of claim 26, wherein the activation module and the prompting module further comprise a fixing member configured to couple the activation module and the prompting module to the walking support structure.

30. The system of claim 29, wherein the securing member comprises an elastomeric member.

31. The system of any one of claims 26-30, wherein the waist belt comprises a belt.

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