Wearable devices that connect to a user and measure and monitor the user's activities

Abstract

A system for measuring a user's joint angle includes a central hub, a first arm, a second arm, a magnet, and a sensor. The central hub includes a first hub and a second hub. The first arm is configured to attach to a first limb of the user at a first outer end and to attach to the first hub at a first inner end. The second arm is configured to attach to a second limb of the user at a second outer end and to attach to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub. The magnet is coupled to the second hub. The sensor is disposed in the central hub and is configured to detect rotation of the magnet.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to and the benefit of:

[0003] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17 / 017,062, filed September 10, 2020 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-905),

[0004] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 991,295 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-1010), filed March 18, 2020,

[0005] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 911,515 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-1700), filed October 7, 2019,

[0006] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 904,013 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-1500), filed September 23, 2019,

[0007] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 901,464 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-900), filed September 17, 2019, and

[0008] U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 901,411 (Attorney Docket No. 91346-1000), filed September 17, 2019,

[0009] Each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0010] The present invention relates generally to wearable devices, and in particular to coupling a wearable device to a user and measuring and monitoring the user's activity. Background Art

[0011] Patients often require physical therapy to recover from surgery, such as knee replacement surgery. Physical therapy can include exercises to increase a patient's strength, flexibility, and stability. If a patient overextends their muscles or joints, further damage to the muscles or joints, surrounding tissue, or repaired tissue can occur. If a patient does not exercise their muscles or joints to achieve a proper range of motion, the joints may become stiff and require additional surgery. Measuring and monitoring range of motion during physical therapy can help prevent further injury to patients and speed up recovery time.

[0012] A goniometer is an instrument that can be used to measure the range of motion or joint angles of a patient's body. A standard goniometer includes a stationary arm that cannot move independently, a mobile arm attached to a fulcrum in the center of the body, and a protractor with a body range of 0 to 180 or 360 degrees. The fixed arm is attached to one limb or part of the patient's body (e.g., thigh), and the mobile arm is attached to another limb or part of the patient's body (e.g., calf). The fulcrum can be a rivet or screw-like device at the center of the body that allows the mobile arm to move freely on the body of the device so that the clinician can obtain a measurement of the movement angle of the patient's joint (e.g., knee). The measurement can be used to track progress in a rehabilitation program. Whenever a patient undergoes rehabilitation treatment, the clinician places and holds or attaches the goniometer device to the patient, for example, using a strap. The patient may have different clinicians set up the goniometer device and measure joint motion. Depending on the experience of the clinician or others, the goniometer device can be attached to different positions of the patient, which may affect the accuracy and reproducibility of the measurement. The accuracy of repeated measurements may also be impaired due to problems or sensitivity of the device. Summary of the Invention

[0013] An exemplary implementation of a system for measuring a user's joint angle is disclosed. The system may include a central hub, a first arm, a second arm, a magnet, and a sensor. The central hub includes a first hub and a second hub. The first arm is configured to attach to a first limb of the user at a first outer end and to attach to the first hub at a first inner end. The second arm is configured to attach to a second limb of the user at a second outer end and to attach to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub. The magnet is coupled to the second hub. The sensor is disposed in the central hub and is configured to detect rotation of the magnet.

[0014] Other implementations of a system for measuring a user's joint angle may include a central hub, first and second coupling devices, and first and second arms. The central hub has a first hub and a second hub. The first arm is configured to attach to a first limb portion of the user at a first outer end and to attach to the first hub at a first inner end. The second arm is configured to attach to a second limb portion of the user at a second outer end and to attach to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub and is configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees around an axis. The system also includes a magnet, a printed circuit board (PCB), and a sensor. The magnet is coupled to the second hub. The PCB is detachably disposed in the central hub. The sensor is coupled to the PCB and is configured to detect the rotation of the magnet. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] The present invention will be best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is emphasized that, in accordance with common practice, the various features of the drawings are not to scale. Instead, the dimensions of the various features have been arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity.

[0016] For a detailed description of exemplary embodiments, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0017] Figure 1A and 1B is a perspective view of a wearable device for measuring and recording motion according to aspects of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2A and 2B are top and bottom views of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 3A and 3B are top and side views of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 4 is an exploded view of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 5A - C is a side view of a goniometer according to an aspect of the invention, with its arm rotated.

[0022] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention, with its arm twisted.

[0023] Figure 7A - D is a schematic top view of an attachment according to aspects of the present invention.

[0024] Figure 8A - D is a view of an attachment according to an aspect of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 9A - D is a view of the first and second layers of an attachment according to aspects of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 10A -D is a view of a pod of an attachment according to aspects of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 11A and 11B are perspective and cross-sectional views of a coupling device according to aspects of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 12A and 12B is a perspective view of an attachment and a goniometer attachment according to aspects of the present invention.

[0029] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 14A- C are perspective and top views of the central hub of a goniometer according to aspects of the present invention, the central hub closed, open, and with components removed.

[0031] Figure 15A and 15B are top and bottom views of a printed circuit board (PCB) according to aspects of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 16A and 16B is a graph illustrating test data according to aspects of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an alignment device shown aligned relative to the center of a user's joint.

[0034] Figure 18 is a perspective view of a user showing markings on the user's skin located at the center of a joint and on the opposing limb part.

[0035] Figure 19 is a perspective view showing the attachment aligned with markings on the opposing limb portion.

[0036] Figure 20 is a perspective view showing a wearable device coupled to an attachment and aligned relative to the center of a joint.

[0037] Figure 21 is a perspective view illustrating an alternative embodiment of an alignment device and showing light beams positioned on a joint center and an opposing limb portion, the light beams configured to assist a clinician in aligning an attachment and a wearable device relative to the joint center.

[0038] Figure 22 is a perspective view illustrating yet another alternative embodiment of an alignment device, and showing diodes at the center of a joint, on opposing limb parts, and on a wearable device.

[0039] Figures 23A-23E are various views of an embodiment of a pedometer that may be coupled to a goniometer.

[0040] Symbols and terminology

[0041] Various terms are used to refer to specific system components. Different companies may refer to a component by different names—this document does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but function. In the following discussion and claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are used in an open-ended manner and, thus, should be interpreted to mean "including, but not limited to..." Additionally, the term "coupled" is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, the connection may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.

[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" may be intended to include the plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Unless specifically identified as an order of performance, the method steps, processes, and operations described herein should not be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or described. It should also be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0043] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions; however, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or portions should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be used solely to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or portion from another. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, terms such as "first," "second," and other numerical terms used herein do not imply a sequence or order. Thus, the first element, component, region, layer, or portion discussed below could be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or portion without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments. When used with a list of items, the phrase "at least one of" means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and only one item from the list may be required. For example, "at least one of: A, B, and C" includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A, B, and C. In another example, the phrase "one or more" when used with a list of items means that there may be one item or any suitable number of more than one item.

[0044] Spatially relative terms may be used herein, such as "inside," "outside," "below," "beneath," "lower," "above," "above," "top," "bottom," and the like. These spatially relative terms may be used for ease of description to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as shown in the figures. Spatially relative terms may also be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were turned over, elements described as "below" or "under other elements or features" would be oriented as "above the other elements or features." Thus, the exemplary term "below" can include both above and below orientations. The device may be oriented in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptions used herein are interpreted accordingly. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The following discussion relates to various embodiments of the present invention. Although one or more of these embodiments may be preferred, the disclosed embodiments should not be interpreted or otherwise used to limit the scope of the present invention, including the claims. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the following description has broad application and that the discussion of any embodiment is merely meant to be illustrative of the embodiment and is not intended to imply that the scope of the present invention, including the claims, is limited to the embodiment.

[0046] According to various aspects of the present invention, Figure 1A and 1B An exemplary system or wearable device 100 for measuring and recording flexion and extension at a joint 107 of a user 102 is shown. The wearable device 100 includes first and second coupling devices or attachments 112, 114, 118, 120 (hereinafter referred to as first and second attachments 118, 120) and can be configured to be removably coupled to the user 102 at opposing limb portions 104, 106 of the joint 107. For example, Figure 1A and 1B As shown, the first and second attachments 118, 120 can be coupled to the user's leg at the knee or joint 107 of the user 102 at opposing limb portions 104, 106 (e.g., thigh 104 and calf 106). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the first and second attachments 118, 120 can be coupled to the user at opposing limb portions of any other joint of the patient or user 102. It is also contemplated that the wearable device 100 can be used to measure flexion and extension of an animal joint, a robotic joint, or any other desired joint or joint equivalent.

[0047] To position the wearable device 100 relative to the joint 107, a person, such as a clinician, can identify the joint center 108, wherein the joint center 108 can be used to align the wearable device 100 with the joint 107. The clinician can use the alignment device 300 to identify and mark the joint center 108. For example, the alignment device 300 can mark the skin of the user 102 at the joint center 108 using a marker, a pen, or any other desired tool. In addition, the alignment device 300 can be used to identify and mark the positions of the first and second attachments 118, 120 at the opposing limb parts 104, 106 relative to the joint center.

[0048] refer to Figure 2A-6 , the wearable device 100 includes an exemplary device or apparatus 110, such as a goniometer. Hereinafter, the device or apparatus 110 may be referred to as the goniometer 110. The goniometer 110 is configured to measure angular flexion and extension at a joint 107 of the user 102. The goniometer 110 has a top 122, a bottom 124, and opposing sides 126. The goniometer 110 may include a central hub 116 coaxially aligned with an axis A, and first and second arms 128, 130, wherein the arms 128, 130 are coupled to the axis A and the central hub 116 and are rotatable about the axis A and the central hub 116. More specifically, first and second inner ends 132, 134 of the respective arms 128, 130 are coupled to the central hub 116. The arms 128, 130 extend outwardly from the central hub 116 to respective first and second outer ends 168, 170. In alternative embodiments, the arms 128, 130 may be integrally formed with the central hub 116. Embodiments of the goniometer may implement various rotational or pivoting motions, such as using a shaft, rack and pinion system, or the like.

[0049] Reference Figure 3A and 3B The goniometer 110 may have a length L extending from a first outer end 136 to a second outer end 138. The length L may vary depending on the relative positions of the first and second arms 128, 130. For example, the maximum length L of the goniometer 110 may be measured when the arms 128, 130 are positioned relative to each other. However, when the arms 128, 130 are positioned parallel to each other and directly above and below each other, respectively, the minimum length L of the goniometer 110 may be measured between the outer ends 136, 138 and opposite sides of the central hub 116. The width W of the goniometer may be measured as the diameter of the central hub 116. Furthermore, the height H of the goniometer 110 may be measured from the bottom of the second arm 130 to the top of the first arm 128, or to the top of the central hub 116, whichever is greater.

[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the central hub 116 includes a first or upper hub 146 and a second or lower hub 148. The hubs 146, 148 are coaxially aligned with each other and with the axis A. Furthermore, the hubs 146, 148 can be configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees relative to each other about the axis A. Furthermore, each hub 146, 148 can have a link arm 143 for coupling between the hub 146, 148 and the corresponding arm 128, 130. For example, the first arm 128 can be coupled to the link arm 143 of the first hub 146, and the second arm 130 can be coupled to the link arm 143 of the second hub 148.

[0051] In operation, embodiments of arms 128, 130 can rotate, pivot, bend, or extend relative to central hub 116. This design can account for complex joint motion, sliding motion of the joint, and a wide range of shapes and sizes of the patient's joint 107. Additionally, this design can maintain the position of the central hub relative to the joint center 108. Embodiments of the device can achieve freedom of movement in many planes of the joint, rather than just the plane of rotation. This allows the device to fit many different people while still allowing for accurate measurements.

[0052] More specifically, and as Figure 4 As best shown in FIG, the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 can each include an inner link 142 disposed adjacent the respective inner ends 132, 134, and an outer link 144 disposed between the inner link 142 and the outer ends 168, 170. Figure 5A -C, inner links 142 can be coupled to link arms 143 to couple between the respective arms 128, 130 and hubs 146, 148. Inner links 142 can be configured to facilitate pivoting, bending, or extension of the respective arms 128, 130 relative to central hub 116. Pins 164 can be used to couple the inner links 142 and link arms 143 of each arm 128, 130 to allow pivoting, bending, or extension of the respective arms 128, 130. Pins 164 can be disposed perpendicular to the length of the arms 128, 130.

[0053] The outer links 144 may be coupled to the inner links 142 and the respective outer ends 136, 138. Figure 6 , the outer link 144 can be configured to couple to the inner link 142 to facilitate rotation of the corresponding arm 128, 130 relative to the central hub 116. The screw 162 can be configured to couple the outer link 144 to the inner link 142 to facilitate rotation of the corresponding arm 128, 130 about the screw 162, all relative to the central hub 116. The screw 162 can be aligned parallel to the length of the corresponding arm 128, 130. It should be understood that the first arm 128 and the second arm 130 can rotate + / - 18 degrees or any other desired amount in one or more directions. In addition, with reference to Figure 5A-C, outer links 144 may be configured to couple to respective outer ends 136, 138 to facilitate further pivoting, bending, or extension of respective arms 128, 130 relative to center hub 116. Pins 164 may be used to couple outer links 144 and respective outer ends 136, 138 to allow further pivoting, bending, or extension of respective arms 128, 130 relative to center hub 116. Pins 164 may be disposed perpendicular to the length of respective arms 128, 130.

[0054] The first and second outer ends 136, 138 may include first and second goniometer attachments 168, 170, which may be integrally formed with or coupled to the respective outer ends 136, 138. It should be understood that the goniometer attachments 168, 170 may be coupled or integrated with the arms 128, 130 in any desired location or configuration. The first and second goniometer attachments 168, 170 may be configured to be removably coupled to the attachments 118, 120. Furthermore, each goniometer attachment 168, 170 may include one or more bosses 200 and one or more magnets 158 positioned proximate to the bosses 200 to facilitate coupling and alignment of the goniometer attachments 168, 170 with the attachments 118, 120. The bosses 200 and magnets 158 further facilitate alignment of the goniometer 110 relative to the attachments 118, 120. The arms 128, 130 may also include one or more arm alignment holes 140 configured to align with alignment marks on the attachments 118, 120 or the user 102. The arms 128, 130 may also have one or more wings 202 extending from the side 126 of the goniometer 110, such as from the first or second goniometer attachment 168, 170. The wings 202 may be formed by or coupled to the first or second goniometer attachment 168, 170. The wings 202 may be tabs or have any other desired shape. The wings 202 may be configured to help the user move the goniometer arms 128, 130 vertically relative to the attachments to facilitate disconnecting the goniometer 110 from the attachments 118, 120 without disconnecting the attachments 118, 120 from the user 102.

[0055] 7-9 , the attachments 118 , 120 may include a first layer 172 and a second layer 174 coupled together, and a pod 176 . When coupled together, each of the layers 172 , 174 , and the pod 176 may be concentric with one another. The first attachment 118 may be identical to and interchangeable with the second attachment 120 . The first layer 172 , the second layer 174 , and the pod 176 may be generally oval or any other desired shape. The first layer 172 may be larger than the second layer 174 , and the second layer 174 may be larger than the pod 176 . Furthermore, the first layer 172 may be thinner than the second layer 174 , and the pod 176 may be thicker than the first and second layers 172 , 174 .

[0056] The first layer 172 may have a top 182 and a bottom 184 and may be formed from a pad, coated paper, plastic, woven fabric, latex, or any other desired material. For example, the top 182 may be formed from a pad, while the bottom 184 may include an adhesive material 236, such as a medical-grade adhesive or other suitable material. The adhesive material 236 couples to the skin of the user 102 to attach the attachments 118, 120 to the user 102. Furthermore, the top 182 may also include an adhesive layer 194, which may have an area smaller than that of the first layer 172. Furthermore, the adhesive layer 194 may be smaller than or equal to the area of ​​the second layer 174. The adhesive layer 194 may be oval-shaped and define one or more notches or gaps in the outer periphery. Furthermore, the first layer 172 may define a notch 180 in the outer periphery to facilitate alignment of the first attachment 118 relative to a predetermined location or marking on the user 102. The notch 180 may be V-shaped or have any other desired shape. Additionally, the first layer 172 can define a pair of voids or alignment holes 178 that can help align the first attachment 118 relative to a predetermined location or marking on the user 102. The alignment holes 178 and the notches 118 of the first layer 172 can be identical to or aligned with the notches or voids of the adhesive layer 194.

[0057] The second layer 174 may have a top 186 and a bottom 188 and may be formed from a foam material or any other desired material. The second layer 174 may be coupled to the adhesive layer 194 of the first layer 172. To prevent separation, the foam material of the second layer 174 can reduce forces between the goniometer 110 and the attachment members 118, 120. The top 186 of the second layer 174 may also have an adhesive layer 195 on its upper surface 238, which may have an area smaller than that of the pods 176. The adhesive layer 195 may have an oval shape or any other desired shape. Furthermore, the adhesive layer 195 and the second layer 174 may have one or more holes or one or more cutouts that can be aligned with the alignment holes 178 of the first layer 172 to align the adhesive layer 195 and the second layer 174 with the first layer 172. The adhesive layers 194, 195 may be formed from an adhesive material or any other desired coupling material, such as a hook or loop material. The first layer 172 may have a length L1 and a width W1. Second layer 174 may have a length L2 and a width W2. Adhesive layer 195 may have a length L3 and a width W3.

[0058] like Figure 10A -D, the pod 176 has a top 190 and a bottom 192. The pod 176 may include one or more notches 196. For example, the notches 196 may be located at opposite ends of the pod 176. The notches 196 can be used to align the first coupling device 112, the pod 176, or any other desired feature of the wearable device 100. The pod 176 may include one or more magnets 160. The magnets 160 may be neodymium magnets or any other desired magnets. The pod 176 may have a recess for receiving the magnets 160. The magnets 160 may be circular or any other desired shape. Two magnets 160 may be disposed in the pod 176 at opposite ends of the pod 176. The pod 176 may be sized to be received by and removably coupled to the upper surface 238 of the second layer 174.

[0059] More specifically, the pod 176 has an underside, such as a bottom 192, which can be coupled to the upper surface 238 of the second layer 174. The bottom 192 can have one or more hooks or loops to couple to the upper surface 238. Alternatively, the upper surface 238 and the bottom 192 can include an adhesive material to facilitate a removable coupling between the upper surface 238 and the pod 176. The top 190 of the pod 176 can have one or more recesses 198. The recesses 198 can be oval or have any other desired shape. The recesses 198 can also have tapered edges to help the user 102 disengage from the pod 176 by moving the arms 128, 130 vertically relative to the pod 176. Two recesses 198 can be formed in the pod 176 at opposite ends or sides of the pod 176.

[0060] 11-12 , the recess 198 is sized to accommodate the boss 200 for aligning the goniometer 110 relative to the attachments 118, 120. Furthermore, the recess 198 is sized to allow slight movement of the boss 200 to compensate for slight translational movement of the joints 128, 130 when the goniometer 110 is worn by the user 102. This movement can reduce stress between the attachments 118, 120 and the skin, clothing, brace, or any other desired location on the user 102 and prevent the attachments 118, 120 from becoming detached from the skin, clothing, brace, or any other desired location on the user 102.

[0061] When the user 102 moves the first or second limb portion 104, 106, the first or second arm 128, 130 moves or rotates with the first and second hubs 146, 148. The goniometer 110 can measure the rotation of the joint 107 by measuring the angle between the first and second hubs 146, 148. To achieve this, and with reference to Figure 4 , 13-15, the central hub 116 defines an opening for receiving and housing the printed circuit board (PCB) 152, the sensor 216, the retaining ring 154, the magnet 156, or any other components of the goniometer 110 that cooperate with each other to measure the relative angular motion between the arms 128, 130. More specifically, the first and second hubs 146, 148 can define the opening of the central hub 116.

[0062] To close the opening, a cover 150 can be attached to the central hub 116, more specifically, to the first hub 146. The cover 150 can be removably coupled to the first hub 146 or any other desired location. The cover 150 can also be configured to inhibit movement of the PCB 152 and other components located within the central hub 116. For example, when the cover is closed, the bottom portion of the cover 150 can apply direct or indirect pressure to the PCB 152. The cover 150 can have a snap mechanism 226, such as a finger snap or any other desired mechanism, that is configured to attach and detach the cover to and from the central hub 116.

[0063] The magnet 156 may be coupled to the second hub 148, and a sensor 216, also disposed in the central hub 116, may be configured to detect rotation of the magnet 156. The sensor 216 may be configured to measure rotation of the magnet 156 to a sensitivity of up to one hundredth of a degree, or to any other desired sensitivity.

[0064] like Figure 13-14CAs shown, the central hub 116 includes a first hub 146 rotatably positioned above a second hub 148. An outward notch 208 can be coupled to the first hub 146 or any other desired location. The outward notch 208 can be formed with or attached to the first hub 146. The PCB 152 can be removably disposed in the central hub 116. The PCB 152 can have an inward notch 210. The outward notch 208 can be configured to couple with the inward notch 210 to align the sensor 216 and the magnet 156. The alignment can limit the movement of the PCB 152 within the central hub 116.

[0065] When the cover 150 is removed, the PCB 152. Figure 14B A battery housing 206 is shown coupled to the PCB 152. The battery housing 206 can be attached to the top side 212 of the PCB 152. The battery housing 206 can be formed from a conductive metal or any other desired material. When the cover 150 is attached to the first hub 146, the cover 150 can apply pressure to the battery housing 206, which can secure the PCB 152 within the central hub 116. The battery 204 can be removably coupled to the battery housing 206. The battery 204 can be a lithium-ion battery or any other desired battery or power source. The battery housing 206 can have tabs or any other desired contact points for electrically conducting with the battery 204. The battery 204 can be removed from the battery housing 206 to shut down the goniometer 110 or replace the battery 204. For example, when the cover 150 is opened or removed from the first hub 146, the PCB 152 can be removed from the central hub 116 and the battery 204 can be replaced. To maintain calibration of the goniometer 110 after battery replacement, the inward notch 210 of the PCB 152 is configured to receive the outward notch 208 of the first hub 146 .

[0066] exist Figure 14C, the cover 150 and PCB 152 are removed from the central hub 116. As shown, the second hub 148 may include a magnet housing 224. The magnet housing 224 may be located in the center of the second hub 148 or at any other desired location. The magnet housing 224 may be coupled to the PCB 152 using welding, adhesive, tacks, or any other desired attachment method. The magnet housing 224 may be configured to house the magnet 156. The magnet 156 may be configured to have a north and south pole or any other desired polarity within the central hub 116. The magnet housing 224 may include a lip located at the top of the magnet housing 224 or have any other desired structure. The retaining ring 154 may be configured to couple the magnet 156 to the second hub 148. The retaining ring 154 may surround the magnet housing 224 and couple to the second hub 148. For example, the retaining ring 154 may be positioned between the lip or top of the magnet housing 224 and the second hub 148. The retaining ring 154 can secure the magnet within the magnet housing 224. As the second hub 148 rotates with the second arm 130, the retaining ring 154 can move with the second hub 148 and the magnet 156.

[0067] Figure 15A Shown is the top side 212 of the PCB 152. As described above, the battery housing 206 can be attached to the top side 212. Figure 15B The bottom side 214 of the PCB 152 according to aspects of the present invention is shown. The PCB 152 includes components coupled to the bottom side 214. The components may include a circuit 220 including a resistor, an LED, a transistor, an electrical pod, an inductor, a converter, a diode, a switch, a sensor 216, an emitter 222, or any other desired component. The components may be attached to the PCB 152 using a surface mount method, a through-hole method, or any other desired method. The PCB 152 may include additional and / or fewer components and is not limited to Figure 15A and those shown in B.

[0068] The circuit 220 can be configured to generate an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet 156. The circuit 220 can be configured to transmit the electrical signal in real time. The circuit 220 can transmit the electrical signal. For example, the transmitter 222 can be coupled to the PCB 152 and configured to transmit the electrical signal to an external device based on the rotation of the magnet 156. The transmitter 222 can include a wired or wireless transmission, such as Bluetooth. TM , WiFi, NFC, or any other desired transmission device or method. The external device can be a mobile phone, computer, tablet computer, or any other desired device. The external device can have a user interface. The user interface can be configured to receive the electrical signal and display data obtained from the electrical signal. The data may include the angle of the connector 107 or any other desired information.

[0069] The user interface may include applications that receive data, manipulate data, record data, and display various aspects of the data. For example, an app may display the angle of the user's 102 joint 107, a history of the angle of the joint 107, the duration of the angle, or any other desired information, such as a real-time angle measurement.

[0070] The sensor 216 can be a Hall effect sensor, or any desired sensor (e.g., a magnetic position sensor AS5601 using an internal MEMS Hall effect sensor). The sensor 216 can be coupled to the PCB 152 or any other desired device. When the PCB 152 is disposed within the central hub 116, the sensor 216 can be coupled to the bottom side 214 of the PCB 152 at a position directly above the magnet 156. The PCB 152 and the sensor 216 can rotate with the first hub 146 and the first arm 128. The magnet 156 can rotate with the second hub 148 and the second arm 130. The design of the wearable device 100, including the configuration of the sensor 216 and the magnet 156, can improve the accuracy of the angle measurement of the joint 107.

[0071] Figure 16A 2 is an exemplary graph 228 having a line 232 that depicts the accuracy of wearable device 100 in measuring the angle of joint 107 when wearable device 100 is attached to user 102 . Figure 16B is an exemplary graph 230 having line 234 illustrating the effect of using Velcro TM The accuracy of the measurements of the angle of the joint 107 by different measuring devices attached to the user. The standard deviation of the measurements made by the different measuring devices, shown by line 234, is greater than the standard deviation of the measurements made by the wearable device 100, shown by line 232. TM Compared to a single strap, a user, such as a clinician or patient, can more accurately initially place and realign the first and second attachments 118 and 120 of the wearable device 100. The configuration of the first and second arms 128, 130 of the wearable device 100 to suit different users can increase the accuracy of the measurement. The configuration of the components within the central hub 116 of the wearable device 100 (including the PCB 152, the sensor 216, and the magnet 156) can further improve the accuracy of the measurement. The wearable device 100 can be configured to measure the angle of the joint 107 up to a measurement accuracy of one hundredth of a degree. Different measuring devices can have an accuracy of up to 5 degrees. In other words, the measurements made by different measuring devices can have an accuracy of approximately + / - 5 degrees, such as approximately + / - 11 degrees, or even + / - approximately 0.01 degrees from the actual angle of the joint 107.

[0072] Reference Figure 17 and 18The alignment device 300 can be used to help a clinician align the wearable device 100 on the opposing limbs 104, 106 of the joint 107 of the user 102 relative to the center of the joint 107 (see Figure 20 Properly aligning the wearable device 100 relative to the joint 107 facilitates greater accuracy and precision in measurements taken with the wearable device 100. Therefore, a device such as the alignment device 300 is needed to help align the wearable device 100 relative to the joint 107 of the patient 102.

[0073] Alignment device 300 includes a first segment 302 and a second segment 304 pivotally coupled to first segment 302 at a pivot point P. More specifically, segments 302, 304 each have a coupling end 306, wherein segments 302, 304 are pivotally coupled to one another at pivot point P. Furthermore, pivot point P is adjacent to and equidistantly spaced from each coupling end 306 of segments 302, 304. Furthermore, when segments 302, 304 are pivotally coupled, central axes C of each segment 302, 304 intersect at pivot point P.

[0074] The alignment device 300 also includes a gap 308 defined by each section 302, 304, and the gap 308 facilitates marking the skin of the user 102 during use of the alignment device 300. The gaps 308 are spaced equidistantly from the pivot point P on each section 302, 304, and the spacing and size between each gap 308 are comparable to the spacing and size between each alignment hole 178 of the attachment members 118, 120 (see FIG. Figure 19 and 20 Furthermore, the spacing between each void 308 and the pivot point P and the location of each void 308 and the pivot point P are comparable to the spacing between the central hub 116 and the alignment aperture 178 of the attachments 118 , 120 when the attachments 118 , 120 are coupled to the goniometer attachments 168 , 170 .

[0075] Using the alignment device 300, the clinician can locate the center of the joint 107 of the user 102 and then position the pivot point P at the center of the joint 107. When the joint 107 of the user 102 is a knee, the clinician can locate the lateral epicondyle of the knee and position the pivot point P adjacent to the lateral epicondyle. With the pivot point P positioned adjacent to the lateral epicondyle, the clinician can centrally position each segment 302, 304 adjacent to the opposing limb portion 104, 106 of the joint 107. The clinician can rely on the central axis C of each segment 302, 304 to help align the segments 302, 304 with the center of the opposing limb portion 104, 106. Figure 17 and 18, with the sections 302, 304 aligned with the centers of the opposing limb portions 104, 106, the clinician can use the gap 308 to mark the skin of the user 102. Figure 19 and 20 , the clinician can coaxially align the alignment holes 178 of the attachments 118, 120 with a marking on the skin of the user 102 to facilitate alignment of the wearable device 100 relative to the center of the joint 107 and coupling to the user 102. Additionally, the clinician can use a peg to help coaxially align the attachments 118, 120 with the marking.

[0076] Alternatively, refer to Figure 21 and 22 , the alignment device 400 can be used to assist a clinician in facilitating central alignment of the wearable device 100 relative to the joint 107 of a user. More specifically, the alignment device 400 can rely on data from an imaging device 402 of the joint 107 to assist the clinician in positioning the wearable device 100 on the user 102. The imaging device 402 can be an x-ray, an ultrasound, any other imaging device capable of providing image data to the alignment device 400 in 2D, 3D, or 4D, or any other imaging device. A processor 404 of the alignment device 400 receives and processes the image data from the imaging device 402, and the processor 400 facilitates communication from the alignment device 400 to the clinician for proper positioning of the attachments 118, 120 or the wearable device 100.

[0077] In one embodiment, reference Figure 21 , the alignment device 400 can include one or more lasers 406 that generate a light beam. In embodiments, the processor 404 can communicate with the lasers 406 to position the lasers 406 so that the light beam generates a point of light on the skin of the user 102 at the center of the joint 107 and the opposing limb portion 104, 106. The spacing between the light points and the size of the light points are comparable to the spacing between and the size of each alignment hole 178 of the attachments 118, 120. The clinician can rely on the points to align the wearable device 100 with the center of the joint 107. Alternatively, the clinician can mark the location of the light points on the skin, similar to the markings used by the alignment device 300, and rely on the markings to align the wearable device 100 with the center of the joint 107. Additionally, the wearable device 100 can have markings that the clinician can align with the light beam to facilitate alignment of the wearable device 100. In yet another alternative, the light beam may create an outline of the wearable device 100 on the skin of the user 102 , where the outline may be comparable to the circumference of the wearable device and may be used to properly align the wearable device 100 to the center of the joint 107 .

[0078] In another embodiment of the alignment apparatus 400, reference Figure 22 To assist the clinician in aligning the wearable device 100 relative to the center of the joint 107 of the user 102, the imaging device 402 can communicate with a diode 408 located on the user 102 and / or the wearable device 100. The diode 408 can provide position data to the processor 404, enabling the processor 404 to communicate with and position the laser 406 to assist the clinician in positioning the attachments 118, 120. Alternatively, using the position data from the diode 408, the processor 404 can communicate with the clinician using the clinician communication device 410 to assist in aligning the wearable device 100. Furthermore, the wearable device 100 can also include a diode 408 that can communicate with the imaging device 402. Based on the position data from the diode 408 received from the imaging device 402, the processor 404 can cause the speaker 412 or the display 414 to provide corresponding audio or visual output to convey instructions to the clinician to facilitate alignment of the wearable device 100. For example, the speaker 412 can provide audio guidance to the clinician, such as "Move the wearable device 5mm to the left," to help position the wearable device 100. In another example, the display 414 can provide visual guidance to the user 107 on the location of the wearable device 100, as well as instructions for adjusting its position to achieve correct alignment. The display 414 can be a monitor, or an iPad, or any other device for providing images to the user, such as 3D goggles. Of course, the above-mentioned technologies are used in combination with each other to help the clinician correctly align the wearable device 100.

[0079] Figures 23A-23E An embodiment of a walking monitor or pedometer 1701 is shown. Versions of the pedometer 1701 can count the number of steps taken by a user, including daily steps after surgery. Such a device can be carried by the user or attached to the user or a peripheral device of the user, such as a goniometer 110. The pedometer 1701 can also be operated to track the user's steps even if the user requires a walker or other assistive device.

[0080] In some versions, the pedometer 1701 can include the ability to attach to a magnet on the goniometer 110 to ensure accurate tracking of all steps taken by the user. The pedometer 1701 can include a metal element that is magnetically attracted to the magnet on the goniometer 110. Alternatively, an additional magnet 1703 is attached to the pedometer 1701. Embodiments of the pedometer 1701 can also include a body 1705, a removable cap 1707, a circuit board 1709 including one or more sensors (e.g., an activity sensor such as an accelerometer, a mechanical sensor, or other electromechanical sensor), a battery 1711, and fasteners 1713.

[0081] Other embodiments may include one or more of the following items or components. 900

[0083] A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising:

[0084] a central hub having a first hub and a second hub;

[0085] a first arm configured for attachment to a first limb portion of a user at a first outer end and to a first hub at a first inner end;

[0086] a second arm configured for attachment to a second limb portion of a user at a second outer end and to a second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub;

[0087] a magnet coupled to the second hub; and

[0088] A sensor is disposed in the central hub and configured to detect rotation of the magnet.

[0089] The system also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) removably disposed in the central hub, the PCB having an inward notch; and an outward notch coupled to the first hub, wherein the outward notch is configured to couple with the inward notch to align the sensor and the magnet.

[0090] The system also includes a cover removably coupled to the first hub, wherein the cover is configured to inhibit movement of the PCB within the central hub.

[0091] A system wherein the sensor is a Hall effect sensor coupled to a PCB.

[0092] The system comprises a sensor configured to measure the rotation of the magnet to an accuracy of approximately + / - 0.01 degrees.

[0093] The system also includes a retaining ring configured to couple the magnet to the second hub.

[0094] system, wherein the magnets are configured to have north and south poles within a central hub.

[0095] The system also includes circuitry configured to generate an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet and transmit the electrical signal in real time.

[0096] The system also includes a user interface configured to receive the electrical signal and display data obtained from the electrical signal.

[0097] The system wherein the data includes angles of joints of the user.

[0098] The system comprises a first hub and a second hub configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees about an axis.

[0099] A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising:

[0100] a central hub having a first hub and a second hub;

[0101] a first arm configured for attachment to a first limb portion of a user at a first outer end and to a first hub at a first inner end;

[0102] a second arm configured for attachment to a second limb portion of a user at a second outer end and to a second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub and configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees about the axis;

[0103] a magnet coupled to the second hub;

[0104] a printed circuit board (PCB) removably disposed in the central hub; and

[0105] A sensor is coupled to the PCB and configured to detect rotation of the magnet.

[0106] The system also includes a battery housing coupled to the PCB; and a battery removably coupled to the battery housing.

[0107] The system also includes a transmitter coupled to the PCB and configured to transmit an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet.

[0108] The system also includes a user interface configured to receive the electrical signal and display data obtained from the electrical signal, wherein the data includes angles of the user's joints.

[0109] The system comprises first and second arms adhesively attached to respective ones of the first and second limb portions of the user.

[0110] A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising:

[0111] a central hub having a first hub and a second hub, wherein the first hub has an outward notch;

[0112] first and second coupling devices configured to adhesively attach to the first and second limb portions proximate a joint of a user;

[0113] a first arm configured for attachment at a first outer end to a first coupling device of a user and at a first inner end to a first hub;

[0114] a second arm configured for attachment at a second outer end to a second coupling device of a user and at a second inner end to a second hub, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub;

[0115] a magnet coupled to the second hub;

[0116] a printed circuit board (PCB) having an inwardly facing notch and removably disposed in the central hub;

[0117] a sensor coupled to the PCB and configured to detect rotation of the magnet, wherein the outward notch is configured to fit within the inward notch to align the sensor and the magnet; and

[0118] A transmitter is coupled to the PCB and configured to transmit an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet, wherein the electrical signal has data on the angle of the user's joint.

[0119] The system also includes a cover coupled to the central hub, wherein the cover has a snap mechanism configured to attach and detach the cover.

[0120] The system comprises the first and second arms having portions configured to rotate the first and second arms approximately + / - 10 degrees.

[0121] The system comprises: a first arm and a second arm having a portion configured to twist the first and second arms approximately + / - 18 degrees. 1000

[0123] An apparatus for coupling a device to a user, comprising:

[0124] a first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom comprises an adhesive material configured to couple the device to a user;

[0125] a second layer concentric with the first layer and coupled on top of the first layer, the second layer being smaller in size than the first layer and having an upper surface area;

[0126] A pod is concentric with the second layer and sized to be received by and removably coupled to the upper surface area, and is configured to removably couple the pod to a device.

[0127] The device, wherein, to prevent the device from separating from the user, the second layer comprises a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the device and the device and caused by relative movement between the device and the device.

[0128] The device wherein the adhesive material is a medical grade adhesive.

[0129] The device wherein the upper surface region comprises one of hooks and loops, wherein the pod has an underside comprised of one of hooks and loops, and wherein the upper surface and underside are removably coupled by the hooks and loops.

[0130] The device comprises a first layer and a second layer defining a notch for assisting in aligning the device relative to a predetermined location on a user.

[0131] The device wherein the notch is V-shaped.

[0132] The device wherein the first layer defines a pair of aligned apertures.

[0133] The apparatus comprises an upper surface of the second layer comprising an adhesive material to enable a removable coupling between the upper surface and the pod to facilitate alignment of the device relative to a predetermined position on a user.

[0134] The apparatus comprises a device wherein, when the apparatus is coupled to the device, the pod defines a recess for positioning and aligning the device relative to the device.

[0135] The device comprises a pod including a magnet positioned adjacent the recess to removably couple the pod to the device.

[0136] An apparatus for coupling a device to a user, comprising:

[0137] a first layer having a first perimeter, and the first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom includes an adhesive material, the adhesive material being configured to couple the device to a user, and the first layer defining a plurality of notches, the plurality of notches being spaced apart from one another and disposed about the first perimeter of the first layer, and the first layer defining a pair of alignment holes, and the notches and the alignment holes align the device relative to a predetermined location on the user;

[0138] a second layer having a smaller size than the first layer and concentric with the first layer, the second layer having a lower surface coupled to the first layer and an upper surface, wherein the upper surface presents an area including an adhesive material;

[0139] A pod is concentric with the second layer, the pod being sized to be received by and removably coupled to the area of ​​the upper surface area, the pod having magnets to allow the pod to be removably coupled to the device, and the pod defining a recess for positioning and aligning the device relative to the device when the device is coupled to the pod.

[0140] The device comprises a second layer comprising a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the devices and caused by relative movement between the devices in order to prevent the device from separating from the user.

[0141] A device for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the device comprising:

[0142] The first attachment and the second attachment each include:

[0143] a first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom includes an adhesive material for coupling the attachment to a user on opposite sides of the joint;

[0144] a second layer concentric with the first layer, the second layer having a lower surface and an upper surface coupled to the first layer; and

[0145] a pod concentric with the second layer and removably coupled to the upper surface; and

[0146] A goniometer for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint is removably coupled to a pod of an attachment and spans between them.

[0147] The device comprises a second layer comprising a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the goniometer and the attachment and caused by relative movement therebetween in order to prevent the attachment from becoming detached from the user.

[0148] Device in which the goniometer has a pair of arms rotatably coupled to and rotating about a central hub, and each arm has a boss for aligning and coupling each arm to a corresponding pod.

[0149] The apparatus comprises a plurality of pods each defining a recess for receiving and removably coupling to one of the bosses of the goniometer and for positioning the goniometer relative to each attachment member.

[0150] The device comprises a protrusion and a projection, wherein the projection is sized to move within the recess in order to prevent the goniometer from being disengaged from the attachment member to allow the projection to move within the recess.

[0151] The device comprises a device wherein, for removably coupling the goniometer to the attachment, a magnet is provided adjacent each boss and each recess.

[0152] The device comprises a device wherein wings extend outwardly from the sides of each arm of the goniometer, the wings being configured to enable a user to vertically move the arms of the goniometer relative to the attachment to detach the goniometer from the attachment.

[0153] In devices where the edges of the pod are tapered, this configuration enables the user to further move the goniometer arm vertically relative to the attachment and to disconnect the goniometer from the attachment. 1010

[0155] An apparatus for coupling a device to a user, comprising:

[0156] a first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom comprises an adhesive material configured to couple the device to a user;

[0157] a second layer concentric with the first layer and coupled on top of the first layer, the second layer being smaller in size than the first layer and having an upper surface area;

[0158] a pod concentric with the second layer and sized to be received by and removably coupled to the upper surface area, the pod being configured for removably coupling the pod to a device; and

[0159] A pedometer is configured to count the user's steps and is configured to be detachably attached to the device.

[0160] The device, wherein, to prevent the device from separating from the user, the second layer comprises a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the device and the device and caused by relative movement between the device and the device.

[0161] The device wherein the adhesive material is a medical grade adhesive.

[0162] The device wherein the upper surface region comprises one of hooks and loops, wherein the pod has an underside comprised of one of hooks and loops, and wherein the upper surface and underside are removably coupled by the hooks and loops.

[0163] The device comprises a first layer and a second layer defining a notch for assisting in aligning the device relative to a predetermined location on a user.

[0164] The device wherein the notch is V-shaped.

[0165] The device wherein the first layer defines a pair of aligned apertures.

[0166] The apparatus comprises an upper surface of the second layer comprising an adhesive material to enable a removable coupling between the upper surface and the pod to facilitate alignment of the device relative to a predetermined position on a user.

[0167] The apparatus comprises a device wherein, when the apparatus is coupled to the device, the pod defines a recess for positioning and aligning the device relative to the device.

[0168] The device comprises a pod including a magnet positioned adjacent the recess to removably couple the pod to the device.

[0169] An apparatus for coupling a device to a user, comprising:

[0170] a first layer having a first perimeter, and the first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom includes an adhesive material, the adhesive material being configured to couple the device to a user, and the first layer defining a plurality of notches, the plurality of notches being spaced apart from one another and disposed about the first perimeter of the first layer, and the first layer defining a pair of alignment holes, and the notches and the alignment holes align the device relative to a predetermined location on the user;

[0171] a second layer having a smaller size than the first layer and concentric with the first layer, the second layer having a lower surface coupled to the first layer and an upper surface, wherein the upper surface presents an area including an adhesive material;

[0172] a pod concentric with the second layer and sized to be received by and removably couple to the region of the upper surface area, the pod having magnets to allow the pod to be removably coupled to the device, and the pod defining a recess for positioning and aligning the device relative to the apparatus when the device is coupled to the pod; and

[0173] A pedometer is configured to count the user's steps and is configured to be detachably attached to the device.

[0174] The device comprises a second layer comprising a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the devices and caused by relative movement between the devices in order to prevent the device from separating from the user.

[0175] A device for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the device comprising:

[0176] The first attachment and the second attachment each include:

[0177] a first layer having a top and a bottom, wherein the bottom includes an adhesive material for coupling the attachment to a user on opposite sides of the joint;

[0178] a second layer concentric with the first layer, the second layer having a lower surface and an upper surface coupled to the first layer; and

[0179] a pod concentric with the second layer and removably coupled to the upper surface; and

[0180] a goniometer for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the goniometer being removably coupled to and spanning between the pods of the attachment; and

[0181] A pedometer is configured to count the user's steps and is configured to be detachably attached to the device.

[0182] The device comprises a second layer comprising a material configured to attenuate forces acting between the goniometer and the attachment and caused by relative movement therebetween in order to prevent the attachment from becoming detached from the user.

[0183] Device in which the goniometer has a pair of arms rotatably coupled to and rotating about a central hub, and each arm has a boss for aligning and coupling each arm to a corresponding pod.

[0184] The apparatus comprises a plurality of pods each defining a recess for receiving and removably coupling to one of the bosses of the goniometer and for positioning the goniometer relative to each attachment member.

[0185] The device comprises a protrusion and a projection, wherein the projection is sized to move within the recess in order to prevent the goniometer from being disengaged from the attachment member to allow the projection to move within the recess.

[0186] The device comprises a device wherein, for removably coupling the goniometer to the attachment, a magnet is provided adjacent each boss and each recess.

[0187] The device comprises a device wherein wings extend outwardly from the sides of each arm of the goniometer, the wings being configured to enable a user to vertically move the arms of the goniometer relative to the attachment to detach the goniometer from the attachment.

[0188] In devices where the edges of the pod are tapered, this configuration enables the user to further move the goniometer arm vertically relative to the attachment and to disconnect the goniometer from the attachment. 1500

[0190] A device for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the device comprising:

[0191] a central hub having a first hub and a second hub coaxially aligned with and rotatably coupled to the first hub;

[0192] a first arm coupled to and rotatable with the first hub; and

[0193] The second arm is connected to the second hub and is rotatable with the second hub, wherein in order to maintain the position of the central hub relative to the user's joint, the first arm and the second arm are pivotally and rotatably connected to the corresponding first hub and the second hub, thereby allowing rotation, flexion and extension of the first arm and the second arm.

[0194] The device of claim 1 , wherein each of the first and second arms includes an inner link for pivotally coupling the first and second arms to the first and second hubs, and wherein the inner link is configured to allow the first and second arms to flex and extend relative to the central hub.

[0195] The device comprises a first arm and a second arm, wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes an outer link coupled to an inner link, and the outer link is configured to rotate the first arm and the second arm relative to the central hub.

[0196] The device also includes a screw configured to couple one of the inner link and the outer link, wherein the screw is aligned parallel to a length of a corresponding one of the first arm and the second arm, and wherein, to allow the first arm and the second arm to rotate relative to the central hub, the screw provides rotation of the inner link and the outer link.

[0197] The device comprises a first arm and a second arm, wherein each of the first arm and the second arm includes an outer end coupled to an outer link, and the outer end is configured to bend and extend relative to the central hub, so that the first arm and the second arm can further bend and extend relative to the central hub.

[0198] The device also includes a link arm extending outwardly from each of the first and second hubs, wherein the link arm is coupled to a respective one of the first and second arms.

[0199] The apparatus also includes a pin configured to couple between a respective outer link and a respective outer end, and between a respective inner link and a respective link arm, and wherein the pin is aligned perpendicular to a length of the respective arm, and wherein the pin provides for flexure and extension of the first and second arms relative to the central hub.

[0200] The device comprises a magnet and a boss.

[0201] A device for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the device comprising:

[0202] a central hub having an upper hub and a lower hub, the lower hub being coaxially aligned with and rotatably coupled to the upper hub;

[0203] An arm is coupled to each of the upper and lower hubs and rotatable therewith, and the arm is pivotally and rotatably coupled to the hubs to allow rotation, flexion, and extension of the arm and to limit movement of the center hub relative to the user's joint.

[0204] The device also includes a link arm extending outwardly from each of the upper hub and the lower hub, and the link arm is coupled to the respective hub at the respective link arm.

[0205] A device in which a pin couples each link arm and each arm, and the pin is aligned perpendicular to the length of the corresponding arm and is configured to allow bending and extension of the arm, and a screw is coupled between each link arm and each arm, and each screw is aligned parallel to the length of the corresponding arm and is configured to allow each arm to rotate about each screw.

[0206] The device includes a magnet and a boss for aligning and coupling the arm to the attachment.

[0207] A device for measuring flexion and extension of a user's joint, the device comprising:

[0208] A central hub comprising:

[0209] an upper hub and a first link arm extending outwardly from the upper hub;

[0210] a lower hub coaxially aligned with and rotatably coupled to the upper hub, and a second link arm extending outwardly from the lower hub;

[0211] an arm pivotally coupled to each of the first link arm and the second link arm, each arm comprising:

[0212] an inner link for pivotally coupling the arm to the corresponding first and second link arms and for allowing the arm to flex and extend relative to the central hub;

[0213] an outer link rotatably coupled to the inner link to allow the arm to rotate relative to the central hub;

[0214] The outer end is pivotally coupled to the outer link to allow the outer end of the arm to flex and extend relative to the outer link and the central hub.

[0215] Device wherein the link arms are integrally formed with the hub.

[0216] Device wherein the link arms are coupled to respective hubs and the link arms are configured to allow the arms to flex and extend relative to the central hub.

[0217] An apparatus wherein link arms are coupled to respective hubs and configured to allow the arms to rotate relative to the central hub.

[0218] An arrangement in which a pin couples the inner link and the link arm, and the pin is aligned perpendicular to the length of the arm, and the pin provides a pivotable connection between the inner link and the link arm.

[0219] An apparatus wherein a pin couples the outer link and the outer end, and wherein the pin is aligned perpendicular to the length of the arm, and wherein the pin provides a pivotable coupling between the outer link and the outer end.

[0220] An apparatus wherein a screw couples the inner link and the outer link, and wherein the screw is aligned parallel to the length of the arm, and wherein the screw provides a rotatable coupling between the inner link and the outer link.

[0221] The device comprises a magnet and a boss. 1700

[0223] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device on a limb portion opposite a joint of the user relative to the center of the user's joint, the wearable device having attachments, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from each other, and the alignment holes having a certain size, the device comprising:

[0224] first section;

[0225] a second section coupled to the first section at a pivot point, and the pivot point aligns the device relative to the center of the joint when the second section is positioned adjacent the center of the joint;

[0226] The first segment and the second segment each define a void, the voids being equally spaced from the pivot point on each of the first segment and the second segment, and the spacing between the voids being sized to be comparable to the spacing between and the size of the alignment holes of the corresponding attachments; and

[0227] Thereby, the person pivots the segment to align the segment centrally relative to the corresponding relative limb part of the user, and the person marks the position on the corresponding relative limb part through the gap, wherein the alignment hole of the attachment is aligned with the corresponding mark to align the attachment and connect the wearable device to the user.

[0228] An apparatus wherein the first and second segments each have a central axis that intersect at a pivot point, and wherein the person pivots each segment to centrally align the central axis with the respective center of the opposing limb portion before marking the position on the respective opposing limb portion.

[0229] The device comprises a second section pivotally coupled to the first section at a pivot point.

[0230] The device comprises a second section coupled to the first coupling end at a pivot point by overlapping the first section.

[0231] The device comprises a pivot point adjacent to and equidistantly spaced from the first and second coupling ends of the respective first and second sections.

[0232] An apparatus wherein alignment holes of an attachment member are coaxially aligned with corresponding markings to align the attachment member and enable the wearable device to be mounted on a user.

[0233] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from one another, and each alignment hole having a certain size, the method comprising:

[0234] providing a device having a first section and a second section pivotally coupled to the first section at a pivot point;

[0235] providing voids defined in each of the first and second segments, the voids being equidistantly spaced from a pivot point on each of the first and second segments, and the spacing between the voids and the sizes of the voids matching the spacing between the alignment holes and the sizes of the alignment holes of the corresponding attachment members;

[0236] Locate the center of the joint;

[0237] Align the pivot point of the device with the center of the joint;

[0238] pivoting each segment to centrally align the segment with respect to the corresponding opposing limb portion;

[0239] marking positions on corresponding opposing limb portions that pass through the gap;

[0240] locating the alignment holes of the attachment with corresponding markings to align the attachment and the wearable device on the user; and

[0241] The attachment and the wearable device are coupled to the user.

[0242] The method further comprises:

[0243] providing central axes of the first segment and the second segment, with the central axes intersecting at a pivot point;

[0244] Each segment is pivoted to align the central axis with the center of the corresponding opposing limb portion.

[0245] The method further comprises:

[0246] Provide pegs; and

[0247] Align the pin coaxially with the marks to facilitate alignment of the alignment holes of the attachment with each mark.

[0248] The step of locating the joint center is further defined as a method of locating the lateral epicondyle of the knee joint.

[0249] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from each other, and the alignment holes having a certain size, the device comprising:

[0250] imaging devices for locating the position of the user's joints and relative limb parts;

[0251] a laser configured to provide a light beam;

[0252] a processor in communication with the imaging device and the laser; and

[0253] The processor is configured to receive and process data from the imaging device representing the position of the user's joints and relative limb parts, the processor communicates with the laser to position the laser so that the light beam forms a light spot at the center of the user's joint and on the relative limb part of the user, the spacing and size between the light spots are commensurate with the alignment holes of the corresponding attachment parts, and wherein the alignment holes of the attachment parts are aligned with the corresponding alignment holes of the attachment parts to connect the wearable device to the user.

[0254] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from one another, and each alignment hole having a certain size, the method comprising:

[0255] providing imaging equipment;

[0256] providing a laser configured to provide a light beam;

[0257] providing a processor configured to communicate with the imaging device and the laser;

[0258] Use imaging equipment to locate joints and relative limb segments;

[0259] transmitting data from the imaging device to a processor, the data representing the positions of joints and relative limb segments;

[0260] Processing data with a processor;

[0261] calculating, using a processor, a position of the laser to provide a laser beam to form a spot of light on the user at the center of the joint and the opposing limb portion, the spot of light being commensurate with the spacing between and the size of the alignment holes of the respective attachments;

[0262] Communicate instructions to the laser;

[0263] moving the laser into position; and

[0264] Align the alignment holes of the attachment with the corresponding light points to align the attachment and couple the wearable device to the user.

[0265] The method further includes the steps of marking the location of the laser beam on the opposing limb part and coaxially aligning the alignment hole of the attachment with the corresponding mark to align the attachment and couple the wearable device to the user.

[0266] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user and on an opposing limb portion of the joint of the user, the device comprising:

[0267] a diode coupled to the wearable device, the joint, and the opposing limb portion;

[0268] an imaging device for locating the position of the diode;

[0269] a personal communication device configured to communicate with a person;

[0270] a processor in communication with the imaging device and the personal communication device; and

[0271] The processor is configured to receive and process data representing the position of the diode from the imaging device, and the processor communicates with the personal communication device to provide instructions representing actions to be taken by the person to align the wearable device relative to the center of the user's joint.

[0272] The apparatus wherein the personal communication device is a display.

[0273] The apparatus wherein the personal communication device is a speaker.

[0274] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device on an opposing limb portion of a user's joint relative to a center of the user's joint, the method comprising:

[0275] providing diodes coupled to the wearable device, the joint, and the opposing limb of the user;

[0276] providing an imaging device for locating the position of the diode;

[0277] providing a personal communication device configured to communicate with a person;

[0278] providing a processor configured to communicate with the imaging device and the personal communication device;

[0279] Locating the position of the diode using imaging equipment;

[0280] transmitting data representing the position of the diode from the imaging device to the processor;

[0281] The processing of data by the processor;

[0282] calculating, by a processor, the position of the wearable device relative to the joint and the relative limb part;

[0283] calculating, by the processor, a position of the wearable device and instructions to the person to align the wearable device relative to a joint center of the patient;

[0284] transmitting, by the processor, to the personal communication device, instructions to be provided to the individual to align the wearable device relative to the center of the user's joint; and

[0285] Communicate to individuals using personal communication devices.

[0286] In the method, the step of communicating to the individual using the personal communication device further comprises providing audio instructions to the personal communication device via a speaker.

[0287] The method wherein the step of communicating with the individual using the communication device further comprises providing visual instructions to the individual communication device via a display.

[0288] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device on a limb portion opposite a joint of the user relative to the center of the user's joint, the wearable device having attachments, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from each other, and the alignment holes having a certain size, the device comprising:

[0289] first section;

[0290] a second section coupled to the first section at a pivot point, and the pivot point aligns the device relative to the center of the joint when the second section is positioned adjacent the center of the joint;

[0291] The first segment and the second segment each define a void, the voids being equally spaced from the pivot point on each of the first segment and the second segment, and the spacing between the voids being sized to be comparable to the spacing between and the size of the alignment holes of the corresponding attachments; and

[0292] Thereby, the person pivots the segment to align the segment centrally relative to the corresponding relative limb part of the user, and the person marks the position on the corresponding relative limb part through the gap, wherein the alignment hole of the attachment is aligned with the corresponding mark to align the attachment and connect the wearable device to the user.

[0293] An apparatus wherein the first and second segments each have a central axis that intersect at a pivot point, and wherein the person pivots each segment to centrally align the central axis with the respective center of the opposing limb portion before marking the position on the respective opposing limb portion.

[0294] The device comprises a second section pivotally coupled to the first section at a pivot point.

[0295] The device comprises a second section coupled to the first coupling end at a pivot point by overlapping the first section.

[0296] The device comprises a pivot point adjacent to and equidistantly spaced from the first and second coupling ends of the respective first and second sections.

[0297] An apparatus wherein alignment holes of an attachment member are coaxially aligned with corresponding markings to align the attachment member and enable the wearable device to be mounted on a user.

[0298] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from one another, and each alignment hole having a certain size, the method comprising:

[0299] providing a device having a first section and a second section pivotally coupled to the first section at a pivot point;

[0300] providing voids defined in each of the first and second segments, the voids being equidistantly spaced from a pivot point on each of the first and second segments, and the spacing between the voids and the sizes of the voids matching the spacing between the alignment holes and the sizes of the alignment holes of the corresponding attachment members;

[0301] Locate the center of the joint;

[0302] Align the pivot point of the device with the center of the joint;

[0303] pivoting each segment to centrally align the segment with respect to the corresponding opposing limb portion;

[0304] marking positions on corresponding opposing limb portions that pass through the gap;

[0305] locating the alignment holes of the attachment with corresponding markings to align the attachment and the wearable device on the user; and

[0306] The attachment and the wearable device are coupled to the user.

[0307] The method further comprises:

[0308] providing central axes of the first segment and the second segment, with the central axes intersecting at a pivot point;

[0309] Each segment is pivoted to align the central axis with the center of the corresponding opposing limb portion.

[0310] The method further comprises:

[0311] Provide pegs; and

[0312] Align the pin coaxially with the marks to facilitate alignment of the alignment holes of the attachment with each mark.

[0313] The step of locating the joint center is further defined as a method of locating the lateral epicondyle of the knee joint.

[0314] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from each other, and the alignment holes having a certain size, the device comprising:

[0315] imaging devices for locating the position of the user's joints and relative limb parts;

[0316] a laser configured to provide a light beam;

[0317] a processor in communication with the imaging device and the laser; and

[0318] The processor is configured to receive and process data from the imaging device representing the position of the user's joints and relative limb parts, the processor communicates with the laser to position the laser so that the light beam forms a light spot at the center of the user's joint and on the relative limb part of the user, the spacing and size between the light spots are commensurate with the alignment holes of the corresponding attachment parts, and wherein the alignment holes of the attachment parts are aligned with the corresponding alignment holes of the attachment parts to connect the wearable device to the user.

[0319] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user, wherein the wearable device has attachments on opposite limbs of the user's joint, each attachment defining alignment holes spaced apart from one another, and each alignment hole having a certain size, the method comprising:

[0320] providing imaging equipment;

[0321] providing a laser configured to provide a light beam;

[0322] providing a processor configured to communicate with the imaging device and the laser;

[0323] Use imaging equipment to locate joints and relative limb segments;

[0324] transmitting data from the imaging device to a processor, the data representing the positions of joints and relative limb segments;

[0325] Processing data with a processor;

[0326] calculating, using a processor, a position of the laser to provide a laser beam to form a spot of light on the user at the center of the joint and the opposing limb portion, the spot of light being commensurate with the spacing between and the size of the alignment holes of the respective attachments;

[0327] Communicate instructions to the laser;

[0328] moving the laser into position; and

[0329] Align the alignment holes of the attachment with the corresponding light points to align the attachment and couple the wearable device to the user.

[0330] The method further includes the steps of marking the location of the laser beam on the opposing limb part and coaxially aligning the alignment hole of the attachment with the corresponding mark to align the attachment and couple the wearable device to the user.

[0331] A device for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device relative to a center of a joint of the user and on an opposing limb portion of the joint of the user, the device comprising:

[0332] a diode coupled to the wearable device, the joint, and the opposing limb portion;

[0333] an imaging device for locating the position of the diode;

[0334] a personal communication device configured to communicate with a person;

[0335] a processor in communication with the imaging device and the personal communication device; and

[0336] The processor is configured to receive and process data representing the position of the diode from the imaging device, and the processor communicates with the personal communication device to provide instructions representing actions to be taken by the person to align the wearable device relative to the center of the user's joint.

[0337] The apparatus wherein the personal communication device is a display.

[0338] The apparatus wherein the personal communication device is a speaker.

[0339] A method for assisting a person in aligning a wearable device on an opposing limb portion of a user's joint relative to a center of the user's joint, the method comprising:

[0340] providing diodes coupled to the wearable device, the joint, and the opposing limb of the user;

[0341] providing an imaging device for locating the position of the diode;

[0342] providing a personal communication device configured to communicate with a person;

[0343] providing a processor configured to communicate with the imaging device and the personal communication device;

[0344] Locating the position of the diode using imaging equipment;

[0345] transmitting data representing the position of the diode from the imaging device to the processor;

[0346] The processing of data by the processor;

[0347] calculating, by a processor, the position of the wearable device relative to the joint and the relative limb part;

[0348] calculating, by the processor, a position of the wearable device and instructions to the person to align the wearable device relative to a joint center of the patient;

[0349] transmitting, by the processor, to the personal communication device, instructions to be provided to the individual to align the wearable device relative to the center of the user's joint; and

[0350] Communicate to individuals using personal communication devices.

[0351] In the method, the step of communicating to the individual using the personal communication device further comprises providing audio instructions to the personal communication device via a speaker.

[0352] The method wherein the step of communicating with the individual using the communication device further comprises providing visual instructions to the individual communication device via a display.

[0353] The above discussion is intended to illustrate the principles and various embodiments of the present invention. Once the above disclosure is fully understood, many changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. The appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including all such changes and modifications where applicable.

[0354] The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments may be used alone or in any combination. The embodiments disclosed herein are modular in nature and may be used in conjunction or in combination with other embodiments.

[0355] The benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with reference to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any features that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more significant should not be construed as a critical, required, specific, or essential feature of any or all claims.

[0356] Consistent with the above disclosure, the examples of components listed in the following clauses are specifically contemplated and intended as a non-limiting set of examples.

Claims

1. A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising: a central hub having a first hub and a second hub; a first arm configured for attachment to a first limb portion of the user at a first outer end and to the first hub at a first inner end; a second arm configured for attachment to a second limb portion of the user at a second outer end and to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub; a magnet coupled to the second hub; as well as a sensor disposed in the central hub and configured to detect rotation of the magnet, wherein the first arm defines a length between the central hub and the first outer end, and The first arm further comprises a screw configured to facilitate the first outer end to be rotatable relative to the central hub and around an axis parallel to the length.

2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB) removably disposed in the central hub, the PCB having an inwardly facing notch; as well as An outward notch is coupled to the first hub, wherein the outward notch is configured to couple with the inward notch to align the sensor and the magnet. 3 . The system of claim 2 , further comprising a cover removably coupled to the first hub, wherein the cover is configured to inhibit movement of the PCB within the central hub.

4. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The sensor is a Hall Effect sensor coupled to the PCB.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein The sensor is configured to measure the rotation of the magnet to an accuracy of + / - 0.01 degrees.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising a retaining ring configured to couple the magnet to the second hub.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The magnets are configured to have north and south poles within the central hub. 8 . The system of claim 1 , further comprising a circuit configured to generate an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet and transmit the electrical signal in real time.

9. The system of claim 8, further comprising a user interface configured to receive the electrical signal and display data obtained from the electrical signal.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein: The data includes the angles of the joints of the user.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first hub and the second hub are configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees about an axis.

12. A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising: a central hub having a first hub and a second hub; a first arm configured for attachment to a first limb portion of the user at a first outer end and to the first hub at a first inner end; a second arm configured for attachment to a second limb portion of the user at a second outer end and to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub and configured to rotate 360 ​​degrees about an axis; a magnet coupled to the second hub; a printed circuit board (PCB) disposed in the central hub; as well as a sensor coupled to the PCB and configured to detect rotation of the magnet, wherein the first arm defines a length between the central hub and the first outer end, and wherein the first arm comprises an inner link and an outer link, and The outer link is pivotable relative to the inner link about an axis parallel to the length.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising a battery housing coupled to the PCB; and a battery removably coupled to the battery housing.

14. The system of claim 12, further comprising a transmitter coupled to the PCB and configured to transmit an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet.

15. The system of claim 14, further comprising a user interface configured to receive the electrical signal and display data obtained from the electrical signal, wherein the data includes the angle of the joint of the user.

16. The system of claim 12, wherein: The first and second arms are adhesively attached to respective portions of the first and second limb portions of the user.

17. A system for measuring the angle of a user's joint, comprising: a central hub having a first hub and a second hub, wherein the first hub has an outward notch; first and second coupling devices configured to adhesively attach to first and second limb portions proximate the joint of the user; a first arm configured to attach to a first coupling device of the user at a first outer end and to attach to the first hub at a first inner end; a second arm configured to attach to a second coupling device of the user at a second outer end and to attach to the second hub at a second inner end, wherein the first hub is pivotally coupled to the second hub; a magnet coupled to the second hub; a printed circuit board (PCB) having an inwardly facing notch and removably disposed in the central hub; a sensor coupled to the PCB and configured to detect rotation of the magnet, wherein the outward notch is configured to fit within the inward notch to align the sensor and the magnet; as well as a transmitter coupled to the PCB and configured to transmit an electrical signal based on the rotation of the magnet, wherein the electrical signal has data on the angle of the joint of the user, wherein the first arm defines a length between the central hub and the first outer end, and wherein the first arm comprises an inner link and an outer link, and The outer link is pivotable relative to the inner link about an axis parallel to the length.

18. The system according to claim 17, wherein: The system also includes a cover coupled to the central hub, wherein the cover has a snap mechanism configured to attach and detach the cover.

19. The system according to claim 17, wherein: The first arm and the second arm have portions configured to rotate the first arm and the second arm by + / - 10 degrees.

20. The system of claim 17, wherein: The first and second arms have portions configured to twist the first and second arms by + / - 18 degrees.

Images