Wearable autotensioning device

Abstract

To provide an apparatus for automatically adjusting tension on a retention member and thereby applying compression or other forces to an object.SOLUTION: Sensors may be used to sense changes associated with the object involved or the environment, and an actuator may be included that automatically rotates a rotating member such as a gear or pulley to automatically adjust tension on the retention member. The adjustments in tension may be performed automatically and many times per second based on control signals from control logic responsive to the sensors.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 988,508, filed March 12, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 008,031, filed April 10, 2020, both of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a wearable device for automatically controlling tension applied to an object. In some cases, the optimal tension applied to an object may depend on aspects of the object's movement, the wearable device's movement relative to the object, environmental factors, or the state of the object itself. Often, tension is set manually by tightening a strap, tying shoelaces, twisting a wire or cable until it's "tight," applying a clamp, crimping a cable stay, or the like. Such systems are unable to determine the optimal tension level and / or automatically adjust the tension as needed. As a result, tension levels may become too high, potentially damaging the tensioner itself or damaging the object being held in place by applying too much or not enough tension. Summary of the Invention

[0003] A wearable automatic tensioning device for automatically adjusting tension on an object is disclosed. The retention member may be separate and distinct from the object and positionable around the object. The retention member may be arranged and configured to engage with the object to increase or decrease tension on the object. Optionally, a separate housing may be included, and the retention member may be attached to the housing. Optionally, an actuator including a rotating member may be attached within the housing. The rotating member may be positioned to engage with the retention member, and the rotating member may be rotatable about an axis of rotation in a first direction to increase tension on the retention member and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retention member. Optionally, at least one sensor may be included that is arranged and configured to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object.

[0004] In another aspect, a control circuit responsive to input from the sensor and configurable to control the actuator according to the input from the sensor may be included, and the control circuit may be configured to control the actuator to rotate the rotatable member in a first or second direction to adjust the tension on the retention member based on the input from the sensor.

[0005] In another aspect, the rotating member may optionally extend from the housing to engage the retaining member, and the retaining member may be adjacent to the housing to correspondingly engage the rotating member. In another aspect, the rotating member may include a worm gear adjacent to the retaining member, optionally positioned and configured to engage a hole or groove defined by the retaining member. In another aspect, the retaining member may be optionally rigid, may be wider than it is thick, and may define one or more holes into which the worm gear may be engageable.

[0006] In another aspect, the engagement portion of the retaining member engages a rotating member within the housing. In another aspect, the rotating member optionally includes a shaft, and the engagement portion of the retaining member may be configured to wrap and unwrap around the shaft to selectively increase or decrease tension on the object.

[0007] In another aspect, the retaining member may include a flexible substrate that can optionally have a flat state and a rolled state, and the rolled state of the flexible member may be adapted to conform to the shape of the object. In another aspect, a first end of the retaining member may be attached to the housing, and a second end of the retaining member may be selectively engageable with the rotating member when the flexible substrate is in the rolled state. In another aspect, the engaging portion of the retaining member may be configured to automatically engage with the rotating member when the retaining member is in the rolled state. In another aspect, the control circuit may be configured to automatically activate the retaining device when the retaining member is in the rolled state. In another aspect, the flexible substrate may include or consist essentially of a metallic bistable spring.

[0008] In another embodiment, the automated holding device may include a frame attached to the housing and, optionally, at least one arm rotatably attached to the frame. A holding member may be coupled to the arm, and the arm may be arranged and configured to rotate toward the object upon increasing tension on the holding member and, optionally, to rotate away from the object upon decreasing tension on the rotating member. In another embodiment, the arm may include a plurality of interconnected segments, and the holding member may be arranged to pass through the segments. The holding member may be attached to one of the plurality of interconnected segments adjacent to one end of the arm.

[0009] In another aspect, the retention device of the present disclosure may include a biasing element positioned adjacent to the rotating member, the biasing element may be arranged and configured to bias the rotating member in a direction opposite to the tension in the retention member, hi another aspect, the biasing element may include a spring, and the element may share a common shaft with the rotating member.

[0010] In another aspect, a retention device of the present disclosure optionally includes a first rotating member and a second rotating member, where the first rotating member may be positioned to engage the retention member at a first end and the second rotating member may be positioned to engage the retention member at a second end, and the first and second rotating members may be rotatable in a first direction to increase tension on the retention member and / or in a second direction to decrease tension on the retention member.

[0011] In another aspect, the object to be held may be a human or animal appendage, and the sensed parameter may be any combination of blood pressure, body temperature, blood oxygen level, or heart rate. In another aspect, the control circuitry is optionally configured to increase tension on the holding member when the sensed parameter matches a first target criterion, and optionally to decrease tension on the holding member when the sensed parameter matches a second target criterion. In another aspect, the holding device of the present disclosure may include an environmental sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in an environmental sensed parameter associated with an environment surrounding the sensor. The control circuitry may respond to the environmental sensed parameter, which may include any combination of speed, angular momentum, velocity, motion, or acceleration. In another aspect, the environmental sensor may be located within the housing.

[0012] In another aspect, an automatic retention system for automatically adjusting tension on an object is disclosed, optionally including a frame and a plurality of automatic retention devices attached to the frame. The plurality of automatic retention devices can be configured according to any of the embodiments of the present disclosure. In another aspect, the automatic retention system can include a frame with a linkage, and at least one of the plurality of automatic retention devices can be attached to one side of the linkage and at least one other of the plurality of automatic retention devices can be attached to another side of the linkage.

[0013] Further aspects, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages and embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the detailed description, and the drawings provided herewith. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a component diagram illustrating an example of components that may be included in an automated retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a component diagram illustrating one aspect of an automated retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a component diagram illustrating additional aspects of the features shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 1 is a cutaway perspective view showing an automatic retention device of the present disclosure; [Figure 10] 1 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing an automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 11]FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 1 is a perspective view showing an automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another configuration of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing an automatic holding device of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 17 is another cross-sectional view showing the automatic holding device of FIG. 16. [Figure 18] FIG. 1 is a component diagram illustrating an automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 20 is another component diagram of the automatic retention device of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] 1 is a cutaway perspective view showing an automatic retention device of the present disclosure; [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a component diagram illustrating another aspect of the automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 1 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of an automatic retention device of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 1 is a component diagram illustrating an example of the positioning and use of the disclosed automated retention device. [Figure 24] 1 is a component flow diagram illustrating one embodiment of a control circuit for controlling an automatic retention device of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] 1 shows examples of components that may be included in the automated retention device of the present disclosure, generally designated 100. These components, and possibly other components referred to herein, may be common to any or all of the presently disclosed embodiments of the retention device.

[0016] The automatic retention device 100 may include a control circuit 101 that processes data and generates commands or instructions to other components in the device to control the operational behavior of the device. The control circuit 101 may include a processor, logic circuitry, digital or analog circuitry, or any combination thereof, for accepting inputs and controlling the operational characteristics of the device 100. A battery 104 may be included to power the control circuit 101 and other components of the device that require power. In another embodiment, an optional external power source 120 may be included to power the device 100. This external power source 120 may be useful for charging the battery 104 and / or to serve as a primary power source when the battery 104 is not charged or is not present.

[0017] A memory 102 may be included for storing information such as configuration data 105 and history data 108. In another aspect, the memory 102 may be configured to store data such as the time, direction, and degree of rotation of a rotating member over a predetermined period of time. Data obtained over time from sensor inputs may also be stored for processing by the control circuitry 101 or for overall control of the device 100. The configuration data 105 may be stored in memory 102 for processing by another computing device, which may analyze the data to modify the configuration data 105 to improve physical performance. Accordingly, memory 102 may also be configured to store data values ​​representing sensed parameters detected by sensors 115 that are provided by the sensors as inputs to control circuitry 101. The historical data 108 may include date, time, location, or other metadata. The configuration data 105 may include parameter values ​​for controlling the operation of an automated retention device of the present disclosure.

[0018] A wireless communication module 107 may be included, which may include an antenna 110, a transmitter 113, and a receiver 114. The antenna may be used by the transmitter and receiver to send and receive wireless communications to the computing device 118, for example, to send and receive updated configuration data, historical data, and / or control signals, or any combination thereof. The antenna 110 may be configured to resonate in accordance with radio waves carrying signals defining data to be transmitted and received by the wireless communication module 107. The transmitter 113 may use the antenna 110 to transmit signals, and the receiver 114 may use the antenna 110 to receive signals defining data to be processed by the control circuitry 101 and / or stored in the memory 102. The signals transmitted and received by the transmitter and receiver may be transmitted via any suitable medium, such as via radio waves, by modulating visible or invisible light, or the like.

[0019] A network interface 116 may be included and may implement various communication protocols useful for interacting with remote devices over a communication link connectable to a network, such as the Internet. Such a communication link may be a wireless communication link implemented using wireless communication module 107, or a physical communication link implemented using wires, optical fibers, etc. For example, wireless communication module 107 may send and receive signals, which may then be processed according to a protocol recognized by network interface 116 to implement the communication link.

[0020] The holding apparatus 100 may include a holding member 111 for applying tension to the object. One or more sensors 115 may be incorporated into or coupled to the holding member 111. Optionally, the sensors may be incorporated into or attached to the holding member 111 or may be incorporated into or attached to the automated holding apparatus 100. In another embodiment, the sensor 115 may include a sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object held by the device 100. In another embodiment, the sensor 115 may be incorporated into or responsive to a change in a sensed parameter associated with the holding member 111. For example, the sensor 115 may detect tension in the holding member, thereby enabling the control circuitry to adjust the tension as needed.

[0021] In another aspect, the sensor 115 may include an environmental sensor positioned and configured to sense changes in an environmentally sensed parameter associated with the environment surrounding the sensor. These environmental sensors may be located within the housing 119 or elsewhere external to the housing. The environmentally sensed parameter may represent any suitable aspect of the environment, such as speed, angular momentum, velocity, motion, acceleration, air pressure, heat or temperature, the presence of smoke, fire, humidity or liquid, the depth of a fluid or body of water, altitude, attitude (i.e., tilt angle relative to the ground), or any combination thereof, to which the control circuit 101 may respond. The sensor 115 may also be attached to other objects that interact with the device 100, such as in the case of a wireless sensor that transmits data that is received as a signal 117 by the wireless communication module 107 from a remote location.

[0022] An actuator 103 may be included and configured to act on the holding member 111 to increase or decrease the tension on the holding member and vary the resulting tension on any of the objects to be held in place by the holding member 111. A motor 106 may be included in the actuator 103 and coupled to a rotating member 109, such as one or more gears, cams, pulleys, etc., or any combination thereof. An optional manual control 112 may be coupled to the rotating member 109 to manually adjust the tension on the holding member 111 by manually adjusting the rotating member 109. This manual rotation may be in conjunction with, or as an alternative to, the automatic rotation provided by the motor 106. In another embodiment, the manual control 112 may be coupled to the holding member 111 separately from the actuator. Regardless of position, the tension or compression provided by the holding member may be manually adjusted using the manual control 112 in conjunction with, or as an alternative to, the automatic rotation provided by the motor 106.

[0023] In another embodiment, control circuitry 101 may be responsive to input from at least one of sensors 115 and configured to control the actuator accordingly. The control circuitry may control the actuator to instruct the motor to energize the rotating member to rotate in a first or second direction to automatically adjust the tension on the object. For example, control circuitry 101 may control the actuator to rotate in a first and second direction, with the direction and number of rotations depending on the input received from sensor 115. In another embodiment, some or all of the components of 100 may be mounted on or within housing 119. In another embodiment, control circuitry 101 may be configured to increase the tension on the holding member when the sensed parameter matches a first target criterion and / or decrease the tension on the holding member when the sensed parameter matches a second target criterion.

[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates an additional embodiment common to the automated retention devices of the present disclosure, as shown at 200. A separate retention member 201 is shown separate from object 202. Retention member 201 is optionally positionable around object 202, with retention member 201 optionally arranged and configured to engage the object to increase or decrease tension on the object. In this example, retention member 201 may be rigid or semi-rigid and thus movable in the direction 203. In doing so, retention member 201 is operable to apply tension by pulling towards object 202, or alternatively, by pushing towards object 202. In another embodiment, 201 may be flexible or semi-flexible and thus may be capable of applying tension to the object only by pulling towards object 202.

[0025] In another embodiment, the retaining member 201 may be attached to the housing 204. In one example, the retaining member 201 may be attached at or adjacent the first end 205, the second end 206, or any combination thereof. In another embodiment, the retaining member 201 may engage the actuator 207 at or adjacent the first or second ends 205 and 206. In another embodiment, the actuator 207 may engage the retaining member 201 at any point along its length.

[0026] In another embodiment, the retaining member 201 and the housing 204 together define an opening or open space 208 within which the object 202 can be positioned. For example, the object 202 may be positioned such that the retaining member 201 is substantially perpendicular to the portion of the object 202 positioned within the opening 208. However, any suitable orientation of the object 202 relative to the retaining member 201 may be used.

[0027] In one non-limiting example, the object 202 may be a human or animal appendage, Member 201 is operable to automatically increase or decrease the tension applied to the human or animal appendage. For example, retention device 200 may automatically adjust the tension of retention member 201 to increase or decrease the pressure applied to the human or animal appendage, such as when controlling the flow of blood or other bodily fluids at or adjacent to a wound.

[0028] In another embodiment, a strain or compression sensor 209 may be incorporated into or coupled to the holding member 201 to measure the pressure on the object 202 applied by the automated holding device. In another embodiment, the strain sensor 209 may be one of the sensors 115 maintained adjacent to the holding member, optionally separate from the housing or other portions of the device 200.

[0029] Another embodiment of an automated retention device of the present disclosure is shown at 300 in FIG. 3 . A retention member 304 is shown that is separate and distinct from an object 305. The retention member 304 is optionally positionable around the object 305, with the retention member 304 positioned and configured to engage the object, optionally to increase or decrease tension applied to the object. In this example, the retention member 304 may be rigid or semi-rigid and thus may be capable of movement in direction 308 in response to an actuator 303. In this regard, the retention member 304 may operate to apply tension by pulling toward the object or by pushing toward the object 305.

[0030] In another embodiment, the retention member 304 may be attached to a fixture 306, optionally at or adjacent to the first end 307. The second end 302 may engage an actuator 303 inside the housing 301 of the automated retention device. In this embodiment, the retention member 304 is configured to apply tension to the object 305, with one end of the retention member 304 being acted upon by the actuator 303 and the other end being attached to a fixture separate from the housing 301.

[0031] In another embodiment, retaining member 309, fixture 306, and housing 301 together define opening 308 within which object 305 can be positioned. For example, object 305 may be positioned such that retaining member 304 is substantially perpendicular to the portion of object 305 positioned within opening 308.

[0032] 5 and 6 illustrate another embodiment of an automated retention device 400 of the present disclosure, including a retention member 403 that includes a flexible substrate 404. In one embodiment, the flexible metal substrate is a metallic bistable spring. In another embodiment, the retention member 403 is optionally comprised primarily of a bistable metallic material, such as a bistable metallic spring.

[0033] The flexible substrate 404 optionally has a flat state, as shown in Figure 4, and a curled state, as shown in Figure 5. The curled state of the flexible substrate, as shown in Figure 5, is optionally adapted to conform to the shape of the object 405. As shown in Figure 4, the retaining member 403 is in a flat state prior to application to the object 405. The retaining member 403 may be applied to the object 405 by any suitable means, such as by pressing the retaining member against the object 405 until the flexible substrate 404 curls around the object 405, as shown in Figure 5.

[0034] In another embodiment, the retaining member 403 is operable to "snap" between the flat and rolled states such that, upon curling, the retaining member 403 forms a continuous loop around the object 405. In another embodiment, a retaining member securing portion 406 at or adjacent a first end of the retaining member may be attached to the housing 401. A retaining member engaging portion 407 at or adjacent a second end of the retaining member 403 may be attached to the housing 401 when the flexible substrate is curled. The retaining member 403 may be configured to selectively engage the actuator 402 when in the mounted position. The engaging portion 407 may include an indexing element 408, such as a magnet, groove, protruding hook, or pin, by which the mounting portion 407 can be biased to automatically engage a corresponding gear, pin, magnet, or other element on the actuator 402. In this manner, the retaining member 403 can be easily applied to an object by "banging" the retaining member 403 against the object 405, such that the retaining member 403 automatically curls around the object 405 and the engaging portion 407 automatically engages the actuator 402.

[0035] In another embodiment, the engagement portion 407 of the retention device is optionally configured to automatically engage the rotating member 409 of the actuator when the retention member is in the rolled state. In another embodiment, the automatic retention device 400 may include control circuitry as disclosed herein, which may be configured to automatically activate the retention device 401 when the retention member is in the rolled state. For example, a sensor may be positioned to detect when the engagement portion 407 is adjacent to the rotating member 409, and the control circuit may be configured to respond to the sensor and automatically activate the rotating member 409 accordingly.

[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates a further embodiment of the automated retention device and related concepts of the present disclosure at 600. A separate housing 602 is shown separate from the object 609, with a retention member 607 penetrating and exiting the housing 602, optionally through the housing 602 or optionally through an opening defined by the housing. An actuator 603 is optionally mounted within the housing 602 and optionally includes a rotating member 606 positionable to engage the retention member 607 at an engagement region 608. In another embodiment, the rotating member 606 optionally engages the retention member 607 within the housing 602, such as when the retention member 607 penetrates the housing through an opening. The retention member 607 may pass through one or more holes defined by the housing 602 to enter the housing from the side, or in another embodiment, may pass through one or more holes defined in the bottom of the housing.

[0037] A motor 604 may be included and may be coupled to the rotating member by a connecting member 605 (e.g., a shaft, linkage, belt, chain, or other suitable connecting member). In one embodiment, the rotating member 606 may be rotatable about a rotation axis 610 in a first direction to increase tension on the retaining member 607 and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retaining member. In another embodiment, the rotating member 606 is optionally rotatable about a rotation axis 611 in a first direction to increase tension on the retaining member 607 and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retaining member.

[0038] The automatic tensioning device of the present disclosure optionally includes a manual control 601 for manually adjusting the tension on the retaining member 607. Rotating the manual control 601 rotates the rotating member 606, thus allowing an alternative means of adjusting the rotating member 606 in the absence of the motor 604 or if the motor 604 is malfunctioning.

[0039] Another embodiment of an automated retention device of the present disclosure is shown at 700 in FIG. Optionally, an actuator 702 may be attached to a housing 702, and the actuator includes a motor 704 coupled to a rotating member, such as a rotating member 706. The rotating member 706 may be coupled to the motor 704 by any suitable mechanism, such as a shaft, linkage, belt, chain, gears, or other device for transmitting torque from the motor 704 to the rotating member 706. In this embodiment, the rotating member 706 extends from the housing and engages the retaining member 707 at an engagement region 708 at or adjacent to a first end 709 of the retaining member. A second end 710 is optionally attached to the housing. In another embodiment, the housing 701 and second end 710 are optionally fused together or formed as a single, integral unit. It may be formed as a structure.

[0040] In another embodiment of the disclosed automatic tensioner concept, shown at 800 in FIG. 8 , a retaining member 801 optionally includes a first end engagement region 803 coupled to a first rotating member 802 and a second end engagement region 807 coupled to a second rotating member 807. In this embodiment, rotating members 802 and 807 are optionally coupled to a drive system 804, which may include a single motor coupled to both rotating members 802 and 807 or multiple motors operating in concert, each coupled to a different rotating member. Rotating members 802 and / or 807 may extend from a housing 805 on opposite sides of the housing as shown, or on the same side. In this embodiment, either end of retaining member 801 may engage and act to increase or decrease tension without being attached to housing 805.

[0041] 9 illustrates another aspect of an automatic retention device that can be incorporated into embodiments of the present disclosure. An exemplary automatic retention device 900 is shown for automatically adjusting tension on an object 910. A separate retention member 905 may optionally be included that is separate from the object 910 or may be positioned around the object. The retention member 905 may be positioned and configured to engage the object 910 to increase or decrease tension on the object, in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0042] The holding device 900 may include a separate housing separate from the object 910, and the holding member 905 may be attached to the housing by any suitable means, an example of which is shown at 911, where the holding member is glued to the housing. Any suitable attachment technique may be employed, such as by fasteners, adhesives, solvents, ultrasonic welding, or chemical bonding, to name a few non-limiting examples. In another embodiment, the attachment at 911 may be achieved by forming the housing 901 and the holding member 905, or portions thereof, as a single, integral structure.

[0043] An actuator, optionally including a motor 904 coupled to a rotating member 909 that optionally rotates a shaft 907, may be mounted within the housing 901. The rotating member 909 may be positioned to engage a holding member 905. In this example, the rotating member optionally includes a worm gear extending from the housing 901 toward the object 910 to engage an engagement portion 906 of the holding member 905 adjacent the housing. The engagement portion 906 includes one or more grooves or openings 908 defined by the engagement portion 906. The grooves 908 engage one or more teeth 916 of the holding member 909. The rotating member 909 is optionally rotatable about a rotation axis 903 that may be substantially parallel to the holding member 905 wrapped around the object 910.

[0044] In another aspect, the use of a worm gear with gear teeth engaging grooves such as groove 908 for rotating member 909, or for other embodiments of rotating members of the present disclosure, can advantageously provide a braking mechanism without additional wear or power usage. The use of a worm gear can reduce or eliminate the possibility of the rotating member spinning backward, thereby unintentionally releasing tension on engagement portion 906 and retaining member 905 generally.

[0045] The rotating member 909 may be rotated by a motor 904 controlled by a control circuit 902 of the present disclosure. The rotating member 909 may rotate in a first direction to increase the tension on the retaining member 905 and in a second, different direction to decrease the tension on the retaining member.

[0046] The automatic holding device is adapted to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object 910. The retaining member 909 may include at least one sensor 914 and / or 915 of the present disclosure that may be positioned and configurable. Optionally, the retaining member 909 may include a control circuit 902 that is responsive to input from the sensors 914 and 915. The control circuit 902 may be configured to control the actuator according to input from the sensors as disclosed herein, the control circuit being configured to control a motor 904 that actuates a rotating member 909 to rotate the rotating member 909 in a first or second direction 912 and 913, respectively, to adjust the tension on the retaining member based on the input from the sensors.

[0047] The sensed parameters sensed by sensors 914 and 915 may be any parameters of interest in determining when and how much to adjust tension on retention member 905. If object 910 is a human or animal appendage, examples of sensed parameters include, but are not limited to, body temperature, heart rate, local blood flow, local blood pressure, blood oxygen level, sweating, respiratory rate, or electrical or chemical impulses related to heartbeat, stress, emotions, pain, etc.

[0048] In another embodiment, the sensor 914 may be attached to the object 910 separate from the housing 901 and configured to establish and maintain a communication link between the sensor 914 and the control circuitry 902. In another embodiment, the sensor 915 may be attached to or included as part of the holding member 905, such that the holding member 905 is in close proximity to the object 910 to obtain sensor input from the object 910.

[0049] 9 is optionally substantially rigid and relatively inflexible. Retaining member 905 may also define a width 917 and a thickness 918, and in some embodiments, the retaining member may be wider than it is thick. That is, dimension 917 may be greater than dimension 918, thereby allowing retaining member 905 to optionally be relatively thin and flat relative to its length.

[0050] In another embodiment shown at 1000 in FIG. 10 , an automatic retention device of the present disclosure optionally includes a housing 100 containing an actuator arranged and configured to rotate a drive gear 1011 to automatically increase or decrease tension on a retention member 1009. The actuator mechanism of the present disclosure optionally includes a motor 1003 coupled to an optional reduction transmission mechanism at 1001. The transmission mechanism 1001 may include an optional reduction gearbox 1002. The reduction gearbox may include one or more planetary gears or other gear sets to reduce the rotational speed of the motor 1003 and / or adjust the torque produced by the motor 1003. In another embodiment, the motor 1003 and / or the transmission mechanism 1001 may define a motor axis of rotation 1005. The axis 1005 may be defined by one or more shafts or gears of the motor 1003 and / or the gearbox 1002.

[0051] The power transmission 1001 may also include one or more transfer gears 1007 that may or may not further vary the gear ratio between the motor 1004 and the drive gear 1011. The drive gear 1011 optionally rotates about a separate drive gear axis of rotation 1006 that may be separate from or offset from, but optionally parallel to, the motor axis of rotation 1005.

[0052] The drive gear 1011 may be mounted within the housing 1004 adjacent to the retaining member 1009. The retaining member 1009 may optionally define an engagement portion 1012 including a plurality of grooves, holes, or openings 1010 with which the drive gear 1011 may be engaged. In another embodiment, some or all of these openings 1010 may be through-holes that extend through the retaining member 1009 from an opening on one side of the retaining member 1009 to an opening on the opposite side. The object retaining member 1009 may be wrapped around and define a longitudinal axis 1008 that extends along the retaining member in a direction generally perpendicular to the object retaining member 1009.

[0053] In another embodiment shown in FIG. 11 , an automated retention device 1100 according to the present disclosure optionally includes an actuator 1101 according to the present disclosure positioned and configured to engage a retention member 1109. The actuator 1101 optionally includes a motor 1106 coupled to a rotating member 1108, such as a worm gear or other rotating member as disclosed herein. The rotating member 1108 may be mounted on a shaft 1107 or other suitable mechanical device for transmitting torque from the motor 1106 to the rotating member. The rotating member 1108 may be mechanically coupled to an optional manual tension control 1110, which may be useful for manually adjusting the tension of the retention member 1109 by applying torque to the rotating member 1108 in response to input from a user. The manual tension control 1110 may be mechanically coupled to the shaft 1107 or directly to the rotating member 1108.

[0054] The automated retention device may include a biasing element 1102 positioned adjacent to the rotating member 1108 and optionally a second biasing member 1105. The biasing elements 1102 and / or 1105 may be arranged and configured to bias the rotating member 1108 in a direction opposite to the tension in the retention member. A sensor 1103 may be positioned within the housing of the device 1100 to register the lateral movement 1104 of the rotating member 1108 as it changes position along the shaft 1107. This movement can be used to determine the level of tension the retention member is currently under.

[0055] In another embodiment, biasing members 1102 and / or 1105 may be operable to automatically adjust the tension on retaining member 1109. For example, if motor 1106 is absent or inoperable, optional manual tension control 1110 may be actuated to apply tension to retaining member 1109. Thus, biasing elements 1102 and 1105 can automatically adjust the resulting tension as rotating member 1108 moves laterally, as shown at 1104. In another embodiment in which the motor 1106 is operable and operable to rotate the rotating member 1108, the biasing elements 1102 and / or 1105 may automatically adjust the tension on the retaining member 1109 to inhibit momentary increases or decreases in tension when the motor 1106 is adjusting the tension on the retaining member or after the motor 1106 has stopped rotating and the tension has been set but the object is subjected to a force acting on it or from within the object itself, thereby causing a momentary increase or decrease in the tension applied by the automatic retaining device.

[0056] In another aspect, the automated retention device of the present disclosure may include a winding mechanism for engaging the retention member. One example of this concept is shown in FIG. 12, in which an automated retention device 1200 is illustrated as having a housing 1201 and an engagement portion 1203 of a retention member 1202. The engagement portion 1203 wraps and unwinds around a rotating member 1204 within the housing. The rotating member 1204 may include a shaft that mechanically engages an optional gear mechanism 1208 driven by a motor 1206. Tension may be applied to the retention member 1202 when the rotating member 1204 is rotated in a first direction 1207, thereby winding the engagement portion 1203 of the retention member around the rotating member 1204. The engagement portion 1203 may be a single cable, wire, or any other suitable material, or may include multiple cables, wires, or other materials, such as separate cables or wires coupled to the rotating member 1204 and extending outward to engage the retention member 1202. In another embodiment, engagement portion 1203 may penetrate housing 1201 at openings 1209 and / or 1210, which may be on the side of housing 1201 opposite retaining member 1202, or in any other suitable location.

[0057] In another embodiment, gear mechanism 1208 may include a worm gear with teeth that engage with teeth on rotating member 1204. Such a configuration may be advantageous because it may provide a braking mechanism to reduce or eliminate the possibility of the rotating member spinning backward and unintentionally releasing tension on engagement portion 1203. In another embodiment, retaining member 1202 and / or engagement portion 1203 may include a resilient element, such as an elastic band, spring, rubber band, or other similar biasing element, to automatically unwind engagement portion 1203 from rotating member 1204 when the rotating member is actuated to reduce tension.

[0058] In another embodiment, shown in FIG. 13 , an automated holding device 1300 is illustrated having an optional motor 1305 coupled to an optional drive mechanism 1304. The device 1300 may include a rotating member 1303 for applying tension to a holding member 1307. A frame 1302 may be included for mounting the rotating member in alignment with the motor 1305 and drive mechanism 1304. An optional locking pin 1306 is provided for securing one end of the holding member 1307 such that when the rotating member 1303 is actuated by the drive mechanism 1304, the tension is increased or decreased depending on the direction of rotation. In one embodiment, the rotating member 1303 may be rotated multiple times to increase or decrease the tension on the object 1301. In another embodiment, the rotating member 1303 may be configured to rotate once or a specific number of times when the motor 1305 is actuated. In another embodiment, as noted elsewhere herein, the retention member 1307 may comprise a rigid material such as a metal or polymeric material, or the retention member 1307 may alternatively comprise a flexible or resilient material such as rubber or fabric, or similar materials. In another embodiment, the object 1301 may be compressible and may define a first expanded shape when not under tension by the automatic retention device 1300, and a second compressed shape when under tension by the automatic retention device. In this manner, fluid, gas, or other contents of the object may be released in a controlled manner pursuant to actuation of the automatic retention device.

[0059] 14, an automated holding system 1400 according to the present disclosure may include an actuator 1401 with an optional motor 1402 coupled to a rotating member 1403. The rotating member 1403 may engage a holding member 1405 as disclosed herein to increase or decrease tension on the holding member and apply pressure to an object 1408.

[0060] The holding member 1405 may be coupled to the arm 1407 such that when the automated holding system rotates the rotating member 1403, tension is applied to the holding member 1405, causing the holding member 1405 to move the arm 1407 toward or away from the object 1408, as shown at 1409, thereby increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the object. In another embodiment, tensioning the holding member 1405 can cause the arm 1407 to pivot toward or away from the object 1408, thereby selectively increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the object. In another embodiment, the automated holding system 1400 can be mounted adjacent to or coupled to a fixture or target 1406. Thus, movement of the arm 1407 toward or away from the fixture 1406 can be initiated by actuation of the holding member 1405 to increase or decrease the pressure applied to the object 1408.

[0061] 15, an automated holding system 1500 according to the present disclosure may include multiple arms. In this example, the system includes an actuator 1501 with an optional motor 1502 coupled to a rotating member 1503. The rotating member 1503 may engage one or more holding members, such as optional holding members 1504 and 1505 as disclosed herein, to increase or decrease the pressure applied to the object 1509.

[0062] Retaining members 1504 and 1505 may be coupled to arms 1506 and 1507, respectively, and may be arranged and configured such that when the automated retention system rotates rotating member 1503, tension is applied to the retaining members, causing the retaining members to move arms 1506 and 1507 toward or away from object 1509, as shown at 1508 and 1511, thereby increasing or decreasing pressure applied to the object. In another embodiment, tensioning retaining members 1504 and 1505 can cause arms 1506 and 1507 to pivot toward or away from object 1509, as shown at 1511 and 1512, thereby selectively increasing or decreasing pressure applied to the object.

[0063] 16 and 17, an automated holding system 1600 is arranged and configured to adjust tension or compression on an object 1610 using two arms 1601 and 1608 attachable to a frame 1605. The arms are optionally attached to attachment point 1612, which provides rotational movement of arm 1601 in direction 1614. Arm 1608 may also be attached to attachment point 1607, which provides rotational movement of arm 1608 in direction 1613.

[0064] A retaining member 1609, such as those described in this disclosure, engages the rotating member 1603. The retaining member is attached to the arms 1601 and 1608 adjacent attachment points 1612 and 1607 and may also pass adjacent to one or more pins or pulleys 1602 and 1606. The retaining member 1609 is optionally coupled to the arms 1601 and 1608. For example, a first end of the retaining member 1609 may be coupled to the arm 1601 and a second end opposite the first end of the retaining member may be coupled to the arm 1608. The retaining member 1609 may engage the rotating member 1603 such that rotation of the rotating member 1603 applies tension to the retaining member 1609, thereby rotating the arms 1601 and 1608 inwardly toward the object 1610.

[0065] In one embodiment, the rotating member 1603 is optionally mounted as a rotating cam such that when the rotating member 1603 is in the "relaxed" position shown in Figure 16, the retaining member 1609 is also in a state of minimum tension. When rotated by a motor or other suitable means, the rotating member 1603 presses against the retaining member 1609, as shown in Figure 17, with the cam at a maximum displacement that creates the maximum possible tension on the retaining member and a corresponding maximum pressure level on the object 1610. A control circuit of the present disclosure may optionally control the rotation of the rotating member 1603 to an intermediate position between these two extremes, depending on input from available sensors.

[0066] 18 and 19 illustrate another embodiment of an automatic retention system 1800 of the present disclosure configured to adjust tension on an object 1806 using at least one arm shown in a relaxed state in FIG. 18 and tensioned in FIG. 19. The automatic retention system 1800 includes a plurality of adjacent segments 1807 coupled to one another, such as by a coupling mechanism, a tensioning member, a biasing element, an interlocking linkage, or any other suitable means. A retention member 1805 is coupled to the adjacent segments 1807 such that applying tension to the retention member 1805 causes the adjacent segments to tighten around the object 1806.

[0067] As described elsewhere in this disclosure, an optional motor 1802 may be coupled to a rotating member 1803 positioned and configured to engage a retaining member 1805. Rotating the rotating member 1803 in one direction may optionally increase tension on the retaining member, while rotation in the opposite direction may result in a decrease in tension. As tension is applied, the arm segment 1807 tightens around the object 1806, thereby causing the end segment 1809 to pivot in a direction 1808 toward the frame portion 1804 of the housing 1801. The retaining member 1805 is coupled to an arm 1810, which is arranged and configured such that an increase in tension on the retaining member causes the arm to rotate or otherwise move toward the object 1806, and a decrease in tension on the retaining member 1805 causes the arm to rotate or otherwise move away from the object.

[0068] In another embodiment, arm 1810 optionally includes a plurality of interconnected segments 1807, and the retaining member may optionally pass through a channel defined by the segments and be attached to one of the plurality of interconnected segments 1809 adjacent the end of the arm. In another embodiment, housing 1801 may serve as a mount for arm 1810, allowing the arm to squeeze and compress object 1806 between arm 1810 and housing 1801. In another embodiment, segment 1807 is flexible or compressible to help apply tension to object 1806 as arm 1810 surrounds the object, and optionally to further compress once arm 1810 is in place.

[0069] In another embodiment, the engagement end segment 1809 of the retainer is optionally configured to automatically engage the frame portion 1804 when the arms 1810 are in a curled or closed position, as shown in FIG. 19 . In another embodiment, the automatic retainer 1800 may include control circuitry as disclosed herein, which may be configured to automatically activate the retainer 1800 when the arms 1810 are in a curled position. For example, a sensor may be positioned to detect when the engagement arms are adjacent the frame portion 1804, and the control circuit may be configured to respond to the sensor and automatically activate the rotating member 1803 accordingly.

[0070] End segment 1809 may optionally include an alignment assembly 1812 coupled to or incorporated therein and a corresponding alignment assembly 1811 coupled to or incorporated in frame portion 1804. As arm 1810 wraps toward frame portion 1804, alignment assemblies 1811 and 1812 may be configured to automatically guide end segment 1809 toward frame portion 1804 so that the end segment also automatically latches or couples or otherwise connects to frame portion 1804 to optionally increase tension that may be provided by retaining member 1805 and arm 1810 when the end segment abuts the frame. Alignment assemblies 1811 and 1812 may include any magnets, hooks, fasteners, slots, grooves, indexing members, or other members for aligning end segment 1809 to frame portion 1804, or any combination thereof.

[0071] Another embodiment of an automated holding device with one or more multi-segment arms is shown in Figure 20. Arms 2001 and 2002 may each include multiple individual segments 2003 and 2004. A holding member 2005 optionally extends through the individual arm segments and is attached at one end to end segment 2006 of arm 2001 and end segment 2007 of arm 2002.

[0072] A frame 2008 may be included to provide mounting for arms 2001 and 2002. Frame 2008 may include pins, pulleys, bushings, bearings, or other aspects of a tensioning system. For example, frame 2008 may include pulleys or pins 2009-2012, which may be useful for redirecting or amplifying the tension applied to arms 2001 and 2002 by retaining member 2005. Retaining member 2005 may engage a rotating member 2013 within housing 2014 to increase or decrease the tension applied to retaining member 2005. Increasing tension applied to retaining member 2005 may cause the arms to rotate toward each other or to compress an object held between the arms. In another embodiment, the rotating member 2013 may act as a cam, where a portion of a rotation, such as a half rotation of the rotating member, optionally places the retaining member 2005 under maximum tension, and a further portion of the rotation places the retaining member under minimum tension. In another embodiment, the rotating member 2013 may be configured to engage the retaining member 2005 such that multiple rotations are required to reach maximum tension. This may be the case where the retaining member 2005 wraps around the rotating member 2013, or where the rotating member 2013 includes a gear or set of gears configured to engage the retaining member 2005.

[0073] In another embodiment, the individual segments of arms 2001 and 2002 may optionally include corresponding protrusions or recesses, where a protrusion of one segment may be configured to fit easily into a recess defined by an adjacent arm segment to aid in aligning the segments. In another embodiment, the individual arm segments may include an interlock or one or more biasing elements configured to maintain the segments in proper alignment and adjacent to one another.

[0074] Another embodiment of an automatic retention device of the present disclosure is shown at 2100 in FIG. 21 . The automatic retention device 2100 includes a housing 2102 that houses a motor, rotating members, drive gears, and other components according to any of the present disclosure. A retention member 2103 extends away from the housing, which also includes optional user interface components, all for a user to adjust one or more operational aspects of the automatic retention device. For example, the automatic retention device may include a display device 2105 attached to the housing 2102. The display device 2105 may include one or more indicators that provide information regarding functional aspects of the device, such as the current tension threshold, the current tension setting, whether the battery is charged, whether the device is malfunctioning, etc. In another embodiment, the user interface component may include one or more buttons 2101 for adjusting an operational characteristic of the device, such as the tension applied to the retention member 2103.

[0075] Any suitable user interface may be used with the automated holding apparatus of the present disclosure. In another example, a remote computing device, such as a smartphone, tablet, laptop computer, desktop computer, server computer, or other computing device, may include a user interface 2107 for displaying the status or other operational aspects of the holding device, and one or more input devices 2108 for accepting input from a user to adjust the operation of the automated holding apparatus. In one example, an application may be loaded onto a smartphone and used to adjust the operational settings of the automated holding device 2100. In another aspect, the remote computing device may communicate with the automated holding apparatus 2100 over a communication link 2104, which may be a wired or wireless communication link. In another aspect, the same application executed by the remote computing device 2106 may be effective to control multiple automated holding apparatuses.

[0076] Another embodiment of an automatic retention device of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 22 at 2200. In this embodiment, multiple automatic retention devices of the present disclosure can be organized to operate as an automatic retention system for automatically adjusting tension on an object. In FIG. 22, automatic retention devices 2202-2204 may be attached to a frame 2210. Frame 2201 may be substantially rigid or may include a linkage region, such as in the case of a brace, which may include linkage region 2205 to improve a user's mobility. At least one of the multiple automatic retention devices (e.g., 2203) may be attached to one side of linkage region 2205, and at least one other of the multiple retention devices (e.g., 2204) may be attached to another side of linkage region. The linkage region may include multiple rotating elements linked to provide support and mobility to a human or animal user. The automatic retention system in 2200 The stem may therefore be useful as a brace or splint for the leg, knee, elbow, arm, back or other location of a human or animal needing additional support or protection.

[0077] An example of an automatic support device of the present disclosure in use on a human or animal subject is shown at 2300 in FIG. 23. In one example, automatic support device 2303 may be placed on a human or animal appendage, such as arm 2306 or leg 2308 of user 2301. Once placed, the automatic support device can automatically determine how much tension to apply to arm 2306 or leg 2308 from sensors of the present disclosure configured to detect aspects of the environment or object. For example, radial artery 2302 or femoral artery 2309 may be injured due to an accident, war, natural disaster, etc., and automatic support device 2303 or 2313 may be placed near the affected area to reduce or eliminate life-threatening fluid loss. As disclosed elsewhere herein, the automatic retention device 2303 or 2313 may determine, based on sensing an aspect of the object itself (e.g., reduced blood flow in the arm 2306 or leg 2308) or an aspect of the environment (e.g., ambient temperature, pressure changes, etc.), that immediate tension needs to be applied to reduce or eliminate blood loss from the radial artery 2302 or femoral artery 2309.

[0078] In another embodiment, a user 2301 may have injuries to both an arm 2306 and a leg 2308, both of which may require emergency lifesaving treatment. The automatic support devices of the present disclosure, as shown in 2300, can be rapidly deployed, one on the arm and one on the leg, and used simultaneously. This may allow a caregiver to care for other victims while the automatic support devices 2303 and 2313 automatically administer the necessary lifesaving treatment. In the case of a mass trauma incident, where dozens of victims may be seriously injured, this may allow a single caregiver to rapidly administer lifesaving treatment to multiple victims by deploying multiple devices. In another embodiment, multiple devices for multiple victims may independently communicate data about each patient to one or more remote computing devices, thereby enabling a few caregivers to rapidly deploy and monitor lifesaving treatment for many victims.

[0079] In another embodiment, a knee immobilizer 2304 may be placed on the knee 2305 of a user 2301 and may be configured to include an automatic retention system. Three automatic retention devices 2310-2312, used here as part of the knee immobilizer 2304 automatic retention system, can automatically sense and apply the proper tension level at each location along the user's leg to properly maintain the knee immobilizer 2304 in place as the user moves. The apparatus of the present disclosure may be positioned at any effective location on a human or animal for the purpose of automatically applying pressure or tension.

[0080] In operation, the control circuit and / or other electronic circuitry in various embodiments of the automated retention device disclosed herein is operable to automatically adjust the tension on the retention member. In one operational aspect, the control circuit is programmed to perform a power-on process for the data collection and control electronics. This process may begin with the receipt of a power-on command that activates the device, including the control circuit and any additional control electronics. The control circuit may initiate communication with a set of inertial sensors via a digital interface and may also initialize a file system in memory to record data and maintain configuration data, such as the configuration data described herein. The control circuit may also initiate calibration of all available sensors, such as any inertial sensors. This may include setting the sensor resolution and sample rate. It may also include setting sensor noise filters.

[0081] The control circuitry may also be configured to execute data collection and control algorithms that collect and process various sensor-generated signals from any available sensors. A stream of available data representing the values ​​of the sensed parameters may be retrieved. The control circuitry may apply / update digital filters on the state data and / or use adaptive algorithms, such as neural networks or similar algorithms, to identify significant data features in the time and frequency domains of the incoming data stream. The control circuitry may use the resulting data, the configuration parameters, and the real-time data features to calculate one or more values ​​representing the tension to apply to the retention member. The control circuitry may compare those values ​​to the measured device parameters and communicate the tension values ​​to the actuator to adjust the tension accordingly. The data collection and control algorithms may then iterate as necessary. The algorithms may be executed multiple times per second, such as 10 times per second or more, 1,000 times per second or more, or a million times per second or more.

[0082] One example of circuit components for processing signal inputs and generating motor control outputs is shown at 2400 in FIG. 24. These components may be used with or incorporated into components described elsewhere herein with reference to the components specifically shown at 100 in FIG. 1. The control circuitry in 2400 may include a sensor processing circuit 2414, a memory card interface 2434, and a decision logic high-level control circuit 2422, as well as multiple subcircuits such as an external current monitoring circuit 2408, a low-level proportional-integral-derivative (PID) loop 2426, and a saturation compensation circuit 2428. The external current monitoring circuit 2408 may include a hardware stop feature operable as a current limiter to avoid overloading the motor 2437. A motor current operational amplifier (“Op Amp”) 2402 passes a signal representing a data value of the motor current to a 14-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 2404. The sensor processing circuit 2414 may include any suitable sensors, such as sensors 115, which may include a three-axis accelerometer 2412 and a three-axis gyro 2416, which may be used to estimate the motion state at 2418 using filters such as FFT (Fast Fourier Transform), FIR (Finite Impulse Response), and IIR (Infinite Impulse Response). The memory card interface 2434 may include an SPI bus and an SD card reader 2436 accessible for updating configuration data 2435, which may include user-configurable aspects or operating parameters of the automatic holding device. The motion response execution circuit 2420 then reads the motion state and configuration data and passes the results to high-level control decision logic 2422, which can then determine a target tension using a target tension generation circuit 2424. This target tension may be compared to an actual tension calculated from sensor circuit comparison aspects such as motor current, or force, torque, or position data. The result is passed to a PID loop 2426 and a saturation compensation circuit 2428 to generate an output such as a pulse width modulated (PWM) output 2430, which may be provided to a motor 2437 to automatically control the tension on the retaining member as described elsewhere herein.

[0083] Other concepts of the present disclosure include the following numbered examples: Example 1: An automatic retention device for automatically adjusting tension on an object, the automatic retention device including a retention portion separate and distinct from the object and positionable around the object, the retention portion arranged and configured to engage the object to adjust tension or compression on the object. Example 2: 10. The automated retention device of any other embodiment, comprising a separate housing separate from the object, the retention member optionally attached to the housing. Example 3: 10. The automatic retention device of any other embodiment, comprising an actuator including a rotating member, the rotating member positioned to engage the retention member. Example 4: The automatic holding device according to any other embodiment, wherein the rotating member is engaged with the holding member. An automatic retention device that is rotatable about an axis of rotation in a first direction to increase tension and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retention member. Example 5: The automatic holding device of any other embodiment includes at least one sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object. Example 6: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, including a control circuit configured to respond to input from a sensor and control an actuator in accordance with the input from the sensor, wherein the control circuit is configured to control the actuator to rotate the rotating member in a first or second direction to adjust the tension applied to the holding member based on the input from the sensor. Example 7: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, optionally including a rotating member extending from the housing to engage the retention member, the retention member optionally adjacent to the housing and / or the rotating member optionally mounted within the housing. Example 8: Optionally, the automatic retention device of any other embodiment includes a rotating member consisting of, including, or comprising a worm gear positioned adjacent to the retention member, the worm gear being arranged to engage a hole, groove, spline, pin, or through hole defined by the retention member. Example 9: 10. The automatic retention device of any other embodiment, wherein the retention member is optionally rigid, wider than it is thick, and optionally defines one or more holes into which the worm gear can be engaged. Example 10: The automatic retention device of any other embodiment, wherein the retention member is optionally flexible or semi-rigid. Example 11: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, wherein an engagement portion of the retention member engages with a rotating member inside a housing, the housing optionally being fully or partially closed, and / or the housing optionally defining a through hole through which the retention member can pass from outside the housing to engage with the rotating member. Example 12: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, including a rotating member including a shaft, wherein an engagement portion of the retention member wraps and unwraps around the shaft to increase or decrease tension on the object. Example 13: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein the holding member comprises a flexible substrate having a flat state and a rolled state, and the rolled state of the flexible substrate is optionally adapted to conform to the shape of the object. Example 14: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein a first end of the holding member is attached to the housing and a second end of the holding member is selectively engageable with the rotating member when the flexible substrate of the holding member is in a rolled state. Example 15: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, wherein the engagement portion of the retention device is configured to automatically engage with the rotating member when the retention member is in a rolled state. Example 16: In the automatic holding device according to any other embodiment, the control circuit is configured to an automatic retention device configured to automatically activate the retention device to begin tensioning the retention member when the retention member reaches the curled state or immediately after the retention member reaches the curled state. Example 17: 10. The automated retention device of any other embodiment, wherein the retention member includes, consists of, or consists essentially of a flexible substrate, which is optionally a metallic or polymeric bistable spring. Example 18: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, comprising a frame attached to a housing and optionally at least one arm rotatably attached to the frame or the housing, and a holding member optionally coupled to the at least one arm. Example 20: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein at least one arm is arranged and configured to rotate toward the object upon increasing tension on the holding member, and at least one arm is arranged and configured to rotate away from the object upon decreasing tension on the holding member. Example 21: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein at least one arm is arranged and configured to rotate toward the object upon a decrease in tension on the holding member, and at least one arm is arranged and configured to rotate away from the object upon an increase in tension on the holding member. Example 22: 10. The automated retention device of any other embodiment, further comprising at least one arm having a plurality of interconnected segments, the arm having the retention member extending therethrough. Example 23: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, comprising at least one arm having a plurality of interconnected segments, and a holding member attached to one segment of the plurality of interconnected segments adjacent to one end of the arm. Example 24: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, also including a biasing element positioned adjacent to the rotating member, the biasing element optionally being arranged and configured to bias the rotating member in a direction opposite to the tension in the retention member, and / or the biasing element optionally being arranged and configured to bias the rotating member in the same direction as the tension in the retention member. Example 25: The automatic retention device of any other embodiment also includes a biasing element that is, includes, or consists primarily of a spring, and the biasing element engages the rotating member, optionally sharing a common shaft with the rotating member. Example 26: 10. The automatic retention device of any other embodiment, comprising at least two rotating members, a first and a second rotating member, the first rotating member optionally positioned to engage the retention member at a first end, and the second rotating member optionally positioned to engage the retention member at a second end, the first and second rotating members being rotatable, separately or otherwise, in a first direction to increase tension on the retention member and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retention member. Example 27: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein the object is a human or animal appendage and the sensed parameters associated with the sensor of the holding device include any combination of blood pressure, body temperature, blood oxygen level or heart rate. Example 28: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, wherein the control circuit is configured to increase the tension applied to the holding member when the sensing parameter of the sensor matches a first target criterion, and the control circuit is configured to decrease the tension applied to the holding member when the sensing parameter matches a second target criterion. Example 29: An automatic holding device as described in any other embodiment, comprising an environmental sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in an environmental sensed parameter associated with an environment surrounding the sensor, wherein the control circuit is responsive to the environmental sensed parameter, and wherein the sensed parameter comprises any combination of speed, angular momentum, velocity, movement, or acceleration. Example 30: The automatic retention device of any other embodiment, wherein the environmental sensor is located within a housing of the automatic retention device. Example 31: An automatic retention system comprising a plurality of automatic retention devices as described in any one or more other embodiments described herein, the plurality of automatic retention devices optionally being attached to a frame. Example 32: An automatic retention system according to any other disclosed embodiment, comprising a frame defining a coupling portion, wherein at least one embodiment of a plurality of automatic retention devices is attached to one side of the coupling portion and at least one embodiment of the plurality of automatic retention devices is attached to another side of the coupling portion. Example 33: An automatic retention device as described in any other embodiment, also including a control circuit configured to increase tension on the retention member according to an adaptive algorithm that automatically adjusts control parameters of the control circuit over time. Example 34: The automatic holding device of any other embodiment, wherein the control circuit uses a neural network algorithm to adaptively determine values ​​of one or more control parameters of the control circuit based on data stored in the memory. Example 35: 10. The automated retention device of any other embodiment, wherein the retention member optionally extends through at least a portion of the rotating member of the device. Glossary of definitions and alternatives While embodiments are shown in the drawings and described herein, the disclosure is to be considered illustrative and not restrictive in nature. The disclosure is exemplary in nature and includes all changes, equivalents, and modifications falling within the spirit of the invention as defined by the appended claims. The detailed description is provided herein to explain aspects of the embodiments shown in the drawings for the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention. No limitation of the scope of the invention is intended thereby. All changes and modifications of the described embodiments, and any further applications of the principles described herein, as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertains, are contemplated. While several embodiments have been disclosed in detail, some features believed to be unimportant have been omitted for the sake of clarity.

[0084] When reference is made to publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein, it is understood that each individual publication, patent, or patent application is specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

[0085] Unless otherwise specified, the singular forms "a," "an," "the," etc., refer to plural By way of example, reference to "a device" or "the device" includes one or more of such devices and equivalents thereof.

[0086] As used herein, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "top," "bottom," "forward," "rear," "lateral," "longitudinal," "radial," "circumferential," and the like are used solely for the convenience of the reader to facilitate familiarity with the illustrated embodiments. The use of these directional terms does not in any way limit the features described, illustrated, and / or claimed to any particular direction and / or orientation.

[0087] In the drawings, multiple related items may be designated by the same part number but may be distinguished by letters in separate individual instances. These may be referred to generically by a distinguishing portion of the full name and / or by number alone. For example, if multiple "laterally extending elements" 90A, 90B, 90C, and 90D are shown in the drawings, this disclosure may refer to them as "laterally extending elements 90A-90D," or as "laterally extending element 90," or by a distinguishing portion of the full name, such as "element 90."

[0088] Expressions used in this disclosure shall be deemed to have only their common and ordinary meanings, except as expressly defined below. Terms used in the definitions set forth herein shall have only their common and ordinary meanings. Such common and ordinary meanings include all consistent dictionary definitions found in the most recent editions of Webster's Dictionary and Random House Dictionaries. As used herein, the following definitions apply to the following terms and their ordinary variations (e.g., singular / plural, past / present tense, etc.):

[0089] "About" in reference to a numerical value generally refers to plus or minus 10% of the stated value. For example, if the stated value is 4.375, then use of the term "about 4.375" generally refers to a range between 3.9375 and 4.8125.

[0090] "Activate" is generally synonymous with "powering" or refers to "enabling a particular function" of a circuit or electronic device that already has power. "Actuator" refers generally to a device for actuating or controlling the operation of an actuated device, which can include, but is not limited to, movement or control of movement. An actuator may be an element or aspect of an actuated device, such as in the case of a valve, including an actuator for opening and closing the valve. An actuator may actuate the operation of the device by a direct mechanical coupling, by a signal sent to the device via wire, optical fiber, or electromagnetic energy through the air, or by activating an intervening device that causes the desired actuation of the target device.

[0091] "And / or" is inclusive herein, meaning "and" and "or." For example, "P and / or Q" includes P, Q, and Q in addition to P, and such "P and / or Q" may also include other elements.

[0092] An "antenna" or "antenna system" generally refers to any suitably configured electrical device or set of electrical devices that converts electrical power into electromagnetic radiation. Such radiation can be vertically, horizontally, or circularly polarized at any frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum. An antenna that transmits circularly polarized waves may have right-handed or left-handed polarization.

[0093] In the case of radio waves, antennas transmit signals across the electromagnetic spectrum from extremely low frequency (ELF) to extremely high frequency (EHF). Antennas or antenna systems designed to transmit radio waves may include an array of metallic conductors (elements) electrically connected (often via a transmission line) to a receiver or transmitter. An oscillating current of electrons forced through the antenna by the transmitter creates an oscillating magnetic field around the antenna elements, while the electron charge also creates an oscillating electric field along the elements. These time-varying fields radiate from the antenna into space as moving transverse electromagnetic waves. Conversely, upon reception, the oscillating electric and magnetic fields of the incoming electromagnetic waves exert forces on the electrons in the antenna elements, causing them to move back and forth and creating oscillating currents in the antenna. These currents can then be detected by a receiver and processed to derive digital or analog signals or data.

[0094] Antennas can be designed to transmit and receive radio waves substantially equally in all horizontal directions (omnidirectional antennas) or selectively in specific directions (directional or high-gain antennas). In the latter case, the antenna may also include additional elements or surfaces, which may or may not have physical electrical connections to the transmitter or receiver. For example, parasitic elements, parabolic reflectors or horns, and other such parasitic elements function to direct the radio waves into a beam or other desired radiation pattern. Thus, antennas can be configured to exhibit increased or decreased directivity or "gain" depending on the arrangement of these various surfaces or elements. High-gain antennas can be configured to direct substantially the majority of the radiated electromagnetic energy in a given direction, which may be vertical, horizontal, or any combination thereof.

[0095] Antennas can also be configured to radiate within a specific range of angles normal to the ground (i.e., "take-off angle") to focus electromagnetic energy toward the upper atmosphere, such as the ionosphere. By directing electromagnetic energy at a specific angle toward the upper atmosphere, a specific hop distance can be achieved at a specific time by transmitting electromagnetic energy at a specific frequency.

[0096] Other examples of antennas include emitters and sensors that convert electrical energy into pulses of electromagnetic energy in the visible or invisible portions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Examples include light emitting diodes, lasers, and the like configured to generate electromagnetic energy in the frequency range of the electromagnetic spectrum from far infrared to extreme ultraviolet.

[0097] "Appendage" refers generally to any part of the human body, including the neck, arms, legs, fingers, torso, head, and feet. A "battery" generally refers to an electrical energy storage device or a storage system including multiple energy storage devices. A battery can include one or more separate electrochemical cells, each of which converts stored chemical energy into electrical energy through a chemical reaction that generates an electromotive force (i.e., "EMF," measured in volts). An individual cell can have a positive electrode (cathode) with a higher electrical potential and a negative electrode (anode) with a lower electrical potential than the cathode. Suitable electrochemical cells employing any suitable chemical process can be used, including galvanic cells, electrolytic cells, fuel cells, flow cells, and voltaic piles. When the battery is connected to an external circuit, the electrolyte can move as ions within the battery, enabling chemical reactions to be completed at the separate terminals, thereby transferring energy to the external circuit.

[0098] A battery may be a "primary" battery, capable of immediately producing an electric current upon assembly. Examples of this type include alkaline, nickel oxyhydroxide, lithium copper, lithium manganese, lithium ion, lithium carbon, lithium thionyl chloride, mercury oxide, magnesium, zinc air, zinc chloride, or zinc carbon batteries. Such batteries are generally not rechargeable and are discarded or recycled after discharge. They are often called "disposable."

[0099] Batteries may be "secondary" or "rechargeable" batteries that are capable of producing little or no current until they are recharged. Examples of this type include lead-acid batteries, valve-regulated lead-acid batteries, sealed gel-cell batteries, and various "dry cell" batteries such as nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel-zinc (NiZn), nickel-metal hydride (MiMH), and lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.

[0100] A "brake mechanism" generally refers to a selectively engageable mechanism configured to reduce or stop the movement or rotation of one object relative to another. In one example, a brake mechanism uses friction between two surfaces selectively pressed together to convert the kinetic energy of a moving or rotating object into heat, although other methods of energy conversion may be employed. Regenerative braking converts much of the energy into electrical energy, which can be stored for later use. Other methods convert kinetic energy into stored forms of potential energy, such as compressed air or pressurized oil. Eddy current brakes use magnetic fields to convert kinetic energy into electrical current in brake discs, fins, or rails, which is then converted to heat. Still other braking methods convert kinetic energy into different forms, for example, by transferring the kinetic energy to a rotating flywheel.

[0101] Another example of a braking mechanism is a ratchet, which allows continuous linear or rotational motion in only one direction and prevents motion in the opposite direction. A ratchet may include a series of engaging members, such as teeth, arranged around a gear or on a linear platform. A pivoting, spring-loaded finger, called a pawl, engages the teeth. The teeth are uniform but asymmetrical, with each tooth having a gentle slope on one edge and a steeper slope on the other edge. When the tooth is moving in the unrestricted (i.e., forward) direction, the pawl easily slides up and over the gently sloping edges of the tooth, and as the pawl passes the tip of each tooth, a biasing element, such as a spring, forces the pawl into a recess between the teeth. If the tooth attempts to move in the opposite direction (rearward), the pawl catches on the steeply sloping edge of the first tooth it encountered, thereby locking the pawl against the tooth and preventing further movement in that direction until the pawl is released.

[0102] "Cable" generally refers to one or more elongated strands of material that have tensile strength but little, if any, compressive strength. In other words, a cable is a relatively flexible, elongated structure of one or more strands that is resistant to being pulled apart or stretched, but generally cannot withstand being compressed against one another. Examples include wire rope, flexible shafts, Bowden cable, coaxial cable, twisted-pair electrical wire, single-strand wire, and non-wire ropes made from natural or synthetic fibers.

[0103] A "controller" generally refers to a mechanical or electrical device configured to control the operation of another mechanical or electrical device. A controller may include "control circuitry" configured to provide signals or other electrical stimuli that can be received or intercepted by a controlled device to direct how the controlled device should operate.

[0104] "Computer" refers generally to any computing device configured to calculate a result from any number of input values ​​or variables. A computer may include control circuitry that performs the calculations to process the inputs or outputs. A computer may include memory for storing values ​​processed by the processor or for storing results of previous processing.

[0105] Computers can also be configured to accept input and output from a variety of input / output devices for sending and receiving values. Such devices include other computers, keyboards, mice, visual displays, printers, industrial equipment, and systems or machinery of all types and sizes. For example, a computer can control a network or network interface to perform various network communications as required. A network interface can be part of the computer or can be characterized as separate and remote from the computer.

[0106] A computer may be a single physical computing device, such as a desktop computer, laptop computer, or may consist of multiple devices of the same type, such as a group of servers operating as one device in a networked cluster, or a heterogeneous combination of different computing devices operating as one computer and linked together by a communications network. The communications network connected to the computer may also be connected to a wider network, such as the Internet. Thus, a computer may include one or more physical processors or other computing devices or circuitry, and may also include any suitable type of memory.

[0107] A computer may also include a virtual computing platform having an indeterminate or varying number of physical processors and memory or memory devices. Thus, a computer may be physically located in one geographic location or may be physically distributed across several widely dispersed locations with multiple processors linked together by a communications network to operate as a single computer.

[0108] The concepts of "computer" and "processor" within a computer or computing device encompass any such processor or computing device that functions to perform calculations or operations as part of the systems of the present disclosure. Processing operations such as threshold comparisons, rule comparisons, calculations, etc., performed in a computer may be performed, for example, on separate servers, on the same server with separate processors, or on a virtual computing environment having an indeterminate number of physical processors as described above.

[0109] A computer may optionally be coupled to and / or include a built-in visual display. Similarly, the displays may be a heterogeneous combination of the same or different visual devices. A computer may also include one or more operator input devices, such as a keyboard, a mouse, a touchscreen, a laser or infrared pointing device, or a gyroscopic pointing device, to name a few. In addition to the display, one or more other output devices may also be included, such as a printer, a plotter, industrial manufacturing machines, or a 3D printer. Thus, a wide variety of display and input / output device configurations are possible.

[0110] Multiple computers or computing devices may be configured to communicate with each other or with other devices via wireless communication links to form a network. Network communications may pass through various computers acting as network equipment, such as switches, routers, firewalls, or other network devices or interfaces, before passing through other larger computer networks, such as the Internet. Communications may also pass through a network as wireless data transmissions carried via electromagnetic waves through transmission lines or free space. Such communications include the use of WiFi or other wireless local area networks (WANs) or cellular transmitters / receivers to transfer data.

[0111] A "communication link" generally refers to a connection between two or more communicating entities, which may or may not include a communication channel between the communicating entities. Communication between the communicating entities may occur by any suitable means. For example, a connection may be implemented as a physical link, an electrical link, an electromagnetic link, a logical link, or any other suitable link that facilitates communication.

[0112] In the case of a physical link, the communicating entities may be physically connected to one another. For example, a physical link directly connected to one entity may be directly connected to another entity. In the case of an electrical link, the communication link may consist of one or more electrical conductors electrically connected to the communicating entities to form the communication link. In the case of an electromagnetic link, the communicating entities may be coupled to the communication link by transmitting or receiving electromagnetic energy at any suitable frequency, thereby allowing the communication to pass as electromagnetic waves. These electromagnetic waves may or may not pass through a physical medium such as a wire or optical fiber, free space, or any combination thereof. The electromagnetic waves may be passed at any suitable frequency, including any frequency in the electromagnetic spectrum.

[0113] In the case of a logical link, the communication link may be a conceptual link between a sender and a receiver, such as a sending station and a receiving station. A logical link may include any combination of physical, electrical, electromagnetic or other types of communication links.

[0114] "Coupling device" refers generally to a device for coupling one object to another, including, but not limited to, a belt buckle, a zipper, a latch, a padlock, a trailer hitch, a clothing button, an electrical connector, a boot binding for a snowboard or snow ski, or a foot strap for a water ski, kite board, surfboard, wave board, or sailboard, to name a few non-limiting examples.

[0115] "Electrically connected" generally refers to a configuration of two objects that allows electricity to flow between or through the two objects. In one example, two conductive materials are physically adjacent to each other and are in sufficient proximity to each other to allow electricity to pass between them. In another example, two conductive materials are in physical contact, thereby allowing electricity to flow between them.

[0116] "Gear" refers generally to a mechanical component having engaging teeth or gear teeth extending outward from the body of the gear. The teeth are configured to mesh with another component having corresponding similarly spaced teeth or similarly spaced holes that extend at least partially within the other component. Types of gears include spur gears, helical gears, intersecting shaft gears, sheave gears, bevel gears, spiral bevel gears, hypoid gears, crown gears, worm gears, non-circular gears, rack and pinion gears, epicyclic gears, planetary gears, harmonic gears, cage gears, cycloid gears, and magnetic gears, to name a few non-limiting examples.

[0117] A worm gear resembles a screw and meshes with a worm wheel, which resembles a spur gear. A worm and gear set is a simple and compact way to achieve high torque, low speed gear ratios. A worm gear is a type of helical gear, but its helix angle is usually somewhat larger (close to 90 degrees) and its body is usually quite long axially. These attributes give it a screw-like nature. What distinguishes a worm gear from a helical gear is that at least one tooth remains for a full revolution around the helix. A worm gear can be considered to have a single tooth if the tooth remains for several revolutions around the helix. A worm gear can also be considered to have multiple teeth when viewed perpendicular to the gear's long axis. Thus, the teeth that reappear periodically along the length of the worm can be considered multiple teeth.

[0118] In a worm-and-gear set, the worm can always drive the gear. However, when the gear tries to drive the worm, it may or may not succeed. Especially with a small lead angle, the circumferential force of the worm is not sufficient to overcome friction, so the gear teeth can easily lock against the worm teeth. However, in traditional music boxes, the gear drives a worm with a large helix angle. A worm-and-gear set can also be "self-locking," such as when you set the position of the mechanism by rotating the worm and then want the mechanism to hold that position without allowing reverse rotation. One example is the tuning pegs found on some stringed instruments.

[0119] A "hole" generally refers to a hollow area defined by a solid body or surface. A hole may extend into a solid body or surface without going all the way through, as in the case of a depression, indentation, or pit. A hole may penetrate through one side of an object to another, thereby completely passing through the object. The second side may be the same as the first side, as in the case of a loop inside a solid body. A hole may have any suitable shape, such as circular, rectangular, oval, square, triangular, etc.

[0120] "Input" generally refers to an input, such as a physical entity (e.g., an increased input of fuel), power or energy input into a machine or system, usually with the intention of recovering a substantial amount in the form of output, a factor of production (such as land, labor, or raw materials), a signal, data, or information input into a computer, advice, or comment, or a stimulus acting on or incorporated into a bodily system. In the case of information fed into a computer, the input can be generated by a sensor that detects a sensed parameter, in which case the time-varying value of the sensed parameter is at least part of the input.

[0121] "Memory" generally refers to any storage system or device configured to hold data or information. Each memory may include one or more types of solid-state electronic memory, magnetic memory, or optical memory, to name a few. A memory may use any suitable storage technology or combination of storage technologies and may be volatile, nonvolatile, or a hybrid combination of volatile and nonvolatile types. As non-limiting examples, each memory may include solid-state electronic random access memory (RAM), sequentially accessible memory (SAM) (such as first-in-first-out (FIFO) or last-in-first-out (LIFO)), programmable read-only memory (PROM), electronically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), or electronically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM).

[0122] Memory may refer to dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or any variant, including static random access memory (SRAM), burst SRAM or synchronous burst SRAM (BSRAM), fast page mode DRAM (FPM DRAM), enhanced DRAM (EDRAM), extended data output RAM (EDO RAM), extended data output DRAM (EDO DRAM), burst extended data output DRAM (REDO DRAM), single data rate synchronous DRAM (SDR SDRAM), double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM), direct Rambus DRAM (DRDRAM), or extreme data rate DRAM (XDR DRAM).

[0123] Memory can be classified into several types: non-volatile read access memory (NVRAM), flash memory, non-volatile static RAM (nvSRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM), phase change memory (PRAM), conductive bridge RAM (CBRAM), silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon (SONOS), resistive RAM (RRAM), domain wall memory (DWM) or "racetrack" memory, nanoRAM ( It may also refer to non-volatile storage technologies such as NRAM, or millipede memory. Other non-volatile types of memory include optical disk memory (such as DVD or CD ROM), magnetically encoded hard disks or hard disk platters, floppy disks, tape or cartridge media. The concept of "memory" includes the use of any suitable storage technology or any combination of storage technologies.

[0124] "Motor" refers generally to a rotating machine that converts electrical or chemical energy into mechanical energy, such as by means of a rotating shaft. Examples include electric motors and internal combustion engines.

[0125] "Motion" generally refers to an action that physically changes a physical characteristic such as position, dimension, attitude, angle of incidence, or location, to name a few non-limiting examples. The movement of an object can be caused by the object, by the action of other objects acting directly or indirectly on the object, and / or by the action of environmental forces such as gravity, wind, etc.

[0126] "Multiple," as used herein, is synonymous with "plurality" and refers to more than one, or by extension, two or more. "Network" or "computer network" generally refers to a telecommunications network that allows computers to exchange data. Computers can pass data to each other via data communications by converting the data into a collection of datagrams or packets. Connections between computers and networks can be established using cables, optical fibers, or via electromagnetic transmission, such as wireless networking devices.

[0127] Computers coupled to a network may be called "nodes" or "hosts" and can originate, broadcast, route, or accept data from the network. Nodes may include any computing device, such as personal computers, telephones, servers, and dedicated computers that operate to keep data flowing through the network, called "network devices." Two nodes may be considered "networked together" if one device can exchange information with another, regardless of whether they have a direct connection to each other.

[0128] Examples of wired network connections may include Digital Subscriber Line (DSL), coaxial cable, or fiber optic lines. Wireless connections may include BLUETOOTH, Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), infrared channels, or satellite bands, or any wireless local area network (Wi-Fi) such as those implemented using the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 standard (e.g., 802.11(a), 802.11(b), 802.11(g), or 802.11(n), to name a few). Wireless links may include or use any cellular network standard used for communication between mobile devices, including 1G, 2G, 3G, or 4G. Network standards may be considered 1G, 2G, etc. by meeting specifications or standards such as those maintained by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). For example, a network may be referred to as a "3G network" if it meets the standards in the International Mobile Telecommunications 2000 (IMT-2000) specifications, regardless of how it may otherwise be called. A network may be referred to as a "4G network" if it meets the International Mobile Telecommunications Advanced (IMTAdvanced) specifications. Examples of cellular networks or other wireless standards include AMPS, GSM, GPRS, UMTS, and LTE. TS, LTE, LTE Advanced, Mobile WiMAX, and WiMAX-Advanced.

[0129] Cellular network standards may use various channel access methods, such as FDMA, TDMA, CDMA, or SDMA. Different types of data may be transmitted over different links and standards, or the same type of data may be transmitted over different types of links and standards.

[0130] The geographic scope of a network can vary widely: examples include a body area network (BAN), a personal area network (PAN), a low-power wireless personal area network using IPv6 (6LoWPAN), a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet.

[0131] A network may have any suitable network topology that defines the number and use of network connections. The network topology may be of any suitable form, including point-to-point, bus, star, ring, mesh, or tree. A network may also be an overlay network, which is virtual and uses or is configured as one or more layers "on top of" other networks.

[0132] A network may use different communication protocols or messaging technologies, including layers or stacks of protocols. Examples include the Ethernet protocol, the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP / IP), ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode) technology, the SONET (Synchronous Optical Networking) protocol, or the SDEI (Synchronous Digital Hierarchy) protocol. The TCP / IP Internet Protocol Suite may include an application layer, a transport layer, an internet layer (including, for example, IPv6), or a link layer.

[0133] "Optionally," as used herein, means discretionary, not required, possible but not compulsory, left to the choice of an individual. "Personal computing device" generally refers to a computing device configured for use by an individual. Examples include mobile devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablet computers, wearable computers attached to objects worn on the human body such as eyeglasses, laptop computers, portable music / video players, in-car computers, or mobile phones such as smartphones. A personal computing device may also be a device that is not typically mobile, such as a desktop computer, a game console, or a server computer. A personal computing device may include any suitable input / output devices and may be configured to access a network, such as via a wireless or wired connection and / or via other network hardware.

[0134] "Predominantly" as used herein is synonymous with greater than 50%. "Processor" generally refers to one or more electronic components configured to operate as a single unit configured or programmed to process inputs and generate outputs. Alternatively, in multi-component form, the processor may have one or more components located remotely relative to the other components. The one or more components of each processor may be electronic components defining digital circuits, analog circuits, or both. In one example, each processor is a 1000MHz processor supplied by INTEL Corporation of Santa Clara, California, USA. The processor may be a conventional integrated circuit microprocessor configuration, such as one or more PENTIUM®, i3, i5, or i7 processors. Other examples of commercially available processors include, but are not limited to, the X8 and Freescale Coldfire processors manufactured by Motorola Corporation of Schaumburg, Illinois, USA, the ARM processors and TEGRA system-on-chip (SoC) processors manufactured by Nvidia of Santa Clara, California, USA, the POWER7 processor manufactured by International Business Machines of White Plains, New York, USA, any of the FX, Phenom, Athlon, Sempron, or Opteron processors manufactured by Advanced Micro Devices of Sunnyvale, California, USA, or the Snapdragon SoC processor manufactured by Qualcomm of San Diego, California, USA.

[0135] Processors also include application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). An ASIC is an integrated circuit (IC) customized to perform a specific set of logical operations that controls a computer to perform a specific task or function. An ASIC is an example of a special-purpose computer processor, as opposed to a processor configured for general-purpose use. Application-specific integrated circuits generally cannot be reprogrammed to perform other functions and can only be programmed once at the time of manufacture.

[0136] In another example, a processor may be "field programmable." Such a processor can be manufactured and then programmed multiple times "in the field" to perform various specialized or general-purpose functions. A field programmable processor may include a field programmable gate array (FPGA) within an integrated circuit in the processor. The FPGA can be programmed to execute a specific set of instructions, which can be stored in non-volatile memory cells of the FPGA. The FPGA can be configured by a customer or designer using a hardware description language (HDL). The FPGA can be reprogrammed using another computer to reconfigure the FPGA to implement a new set of instructions or operational instructions. Such an operation can be performed by any suitable means, such as by updating firmware in the processor circuit.

[0137] Just as the concept of a computer is not limited to a single physical device in a single location, the concept of a "processor" is not limited to a single physical logical circuit or package of circuitry, but also includes one or more such circuits or packages of circuitry contained within or distributed across multiple computers, possibly in multiple physical locations. In a virtual computing environment, an undetermined number of physical processors may be actively processing data, and this undetermined number may also change automatically over time.

[0138] The concept of "processor" includes devices configured or programmed to perform logical operations such as threshold comparisons, rule comparisons, calculations, or applying rules to data to produce a logical result (e.g., "true" or "false"). Processing activities may occur on multiple single processors on separate servers, multiple processors in a single server with separate processors, or multiple processors that are physically remote from each other in separate computing devices.

[0139] "Module" means a part of a whole, either separate from the whole or incorporated into the whole. "Retention member" refers generally to an element, component, part, part, or assembly configured to hold a first object against a second object, or to generally apply tension or pressure to an object. The second object may be the retention member itself, such as in the case of a retention member whose purpose is to hold itself in place relative to a first object. A retention member may be made up of multiple interrelated segments, strands, or other intertwined or interwoven members. It may also be an assembly of multiple interrelated members, such as elements joined together by others, that combine to function as a retaining member.

[0140] Examples of retaining members include, but are not limited to, elongated structures such as straps, chains, cables, wires, belts, strings, etc. Retaining members may include attachment devices such as snaps, latches, couplers, fasteners, or hooks. Other examples include fasteners such as screws, bolts, nails, headless nails, nuts, or staples.

[0141] "Sensed parameter" generally refers to a characteristic of the environment that can be detected by a sensor. As used herein, sensed parameter may be synonymous with operating conditions, environmental factors, sensor parameters, or environmental conditions. Sensed parameters may include temperature, air pressure, speed, acceleration, tension, weight, the angle of deflection of an object relative to another object or relative to gravity, the presence or intensity of sound or light or other electromagnetic phenomena, the strength and / or orientation of magnetic or electric fields, etc. Other examples include heart rate, change in location via a location service such as the Global Positioning System (GPS), blood pressure, etc.

[0142] "Sensor" generally refers to a transducer configured to sense or detect a characteristic of an environment local to the sensor. For example, a sensor can be constructed to detect an event or a change in a quantity or sensed parameter and provide a corresponding output, typically as an electrical or electromagnetic signal. The sensitivity of a sensor indicates how much the output of the sensor changes given a measured change in the input quantity.

[0143] A "signal" generally refers to a function or means that represents information. A signal can be considered the output of a transformation or encoding process. The concept generally includes a change in the state of a medium or carrier wave that conveys information. The medium can be any suitable medium, such as air, water, electricity, magnetism, or electromagnetic energy, as in the case of radio waves, visible or invisible light pulses, etc.

[0144] As used herein, "signal" connotes a representation of meaningful information. Arbitrary or random changes in the state of a carrier medium are generally not considered a "signal" and may be considered "noise." For example, an arbitrary binary data stream is not considered a signal. On the other hand, analog and digital signals, which are representations of analog physical quantities, are examples of signals. A signal is generally not useful without some way to transmit or send the information and a receiver responsive to the transmitter to receive that information.

[0145] In a communication system, for example, a transmitter encodes a message into a signal that is carried over a communication channel to a receiver. For example, the words "It is 12 o'clock" might be a message spoken into a telephone. The telephone transmitter can then convert the sound into a voltage signal. The signal is sent over a wire to the receiving telephone and converted back into sound at the receiver.

[0146] Signals may be considered "discrete" or "continuous." Discrete-time signals are often called time series in other fields. Continuous-time signals are often called continuous signals even when the signal function is not continuous, such as in the case of a square wave signal.

[0147] Another classification is that of signals that are "discrete-valued" and "continuous-valued." In digital signal processing in particular, a digital signal may be defined as a series of discrete values ​​that may or may not be derived from an underlying continuous-valued physical process. In other contexts, a digital signal is defined as a continuous-time waveform signal in a digital system that represents a bit stream. In the first case, a signal generated using digital modulation methods is converted to an analog signal. In the second case it can be considered as a digital signal.

[0148] As used herein, "surround" means "extending at least partially around." Implicit is a physical or conceptual perimeter around an object that is at least partially surrounded by another object or arrangement of objects. This includes complete envelopment, surrounding all sides, and / or extending entirely around an edge or margin. The term may also contemplate a discrete spacing between an arrangement of objects around a portion of another object, such as chairs surrounding a table or police officers surrounding a building. The term may also be used abstractly, such as when people's activities are shrouded in secrecy.

Claims

1. An automatic holding device for automatically adjusting tension on an object, a retention member separate and distinct from the object and positionable about the object, the retention member positioned and configured to engage the object to increase or decrease tension on the object; a housing separate from the object, the housing having the retaining member attached thereto; an actuator mounted within the housing, the actuator including a rotating member positioned to engage the retaining member, the rotating member rotatable about an axis of rotation in a first direction to increase tension on the retaining member and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retaining member; at least one sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object; a control circuit configured to respond to an input from the sensor and to control the actuator in accordance with the input from the sensor, the control circuit configured to control the actuator to rotate the rotating member in the first or second direction to adjust the tension on the holding member based on the input from the sensor.

2. 2. The automatic retention device of claim 1, wherein said rotating member extends outwardly from said housing to engage said retention member, said retention member being adjacent to said housing.

3. 3. The automatic retention device of claim 1, wherein the rotating member includes a worm gear positioned adjacent to the retention member and arranged to engage a hole defined in the retention member.

4. 4. An automatic retention device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the retention member is rigid, wider than it is thick, and defines one or more holes in which the worm gear is engageable.

5. 5. The automatic holding device according to claim 1, wherein an engaging portion of the holding member engages with the rotating member in the housing.

6. 6. An automatic holding device as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the rotating member includes a shaft, and the engagement portion of the holding member wraps and unwraps around the shaft to increase or decrease the tension on the object.

7. 7. An automatic holding device according to claim 1, wherein the holding member includes a flexible substrate having a flat state and a curled state, the curled state of the flexible substrate being adapted to conform to the shape of the object.

8. 8. The automatic retention device of claim 7, wherein a first end of the retention member is attached to the housing, and a second end of the retention member is selectively engageable with the retention member when the flexible substrate is in a rolled state.

9. 8. The automatic holding device according to claim 7, wherein the engagement portion of the holding device is configured to automatically engage the rotating member when the holding member is in the curled state.

10. 8. The automatic retention device of claim 7, wherein the control circuit is configured to automatically activate the retention device when the retention member is in the curled condition.

11. 8. The automated retention device of claim 7, wherein the flexible substrate is a metallic bistable spring.

12. 12. The automatic holding device according to claim 1, a frame attached to the housing; at least one arm rotatably attached to the frame; an automatic holding device, wherein the holding member is coupled to the at least one arm, the at least one arm being positioned and configured to rotate toward the object upon increasing tension on the holding member, and the at least one arm being positioned and configured to rotate away from the object upon decreasing tension on the holding member.

13. 13. The automatic retention device of claim 12, wherein the arm includes a plurality of interconnected segments, and the retention member passes through the segments and is attached to one of the plurality of interconnected segments adjacent one end of the arm.

14. 14. The automatic holding device according to claim 1, An automatic retention device including a biasing element positioned adjacent to the rotating member, the biasing element arranged and configured to bias the rotating member in a direction opposite the tension in the retention member.

15. 15. The automatic retention device of claim 14, wherein the biasing element includes a spring, the biasing element sharing a common shaft with the rotating member.

16. 16. The automatic holding device according to claim 1, wherein the rotating member is a first rotating member, and the automatic holding device comprises: further comprising a second rotating member; the first rotating member is positioned to engage the retaining member at a first end; the second rotating member is positioned to engage the retaining member at a second end; An automatic retention device, wherein the first and second rotatable members are rotatable in a first direction to increase tension on the retention member and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retention member.

17. 17. The automatic holding device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the object is a human or animal appendage and the sensed parameter is any combination of blood pressure, body temperature, blood oxygen level or heart rate.

18. 18. The automatic retention device of claim 17, wherein the control circuit is configured to increase tension on the retention member when the sensed parameter matches a first target criterion, and wherein the control circuit is configured to decrease tension on the retention member when the sensed parameter matches a second target criterion.

19. 19. The automatic holding device according to claim 1, an environmental sensor positioned and configured to sense changes in an environmental sensing parameter associated with an environment surrounding the sensor, wherein the control circuitry is configured to sense changes in speed, angular momentum, velocity, motion, or an automatic holding device responsive to any combination of said environmentally sensed parameters including acceleration.

20. 20. The automated retention device of claim 18, wherein the environmental sensor is located within the housing.

21. 1. An automatic holding system for automatically adjusting tension on an object, comprising: The frame and a plurality of automatic retention devices attached to the frame, wherein the plurality of automatic retention devices include: a holding member attached to the housing, the holding member being separate and distinct from the object and positionable around the object; an actuator mounted within the housing including a motor coupled to a rotating member positioned to extend from the housing to engage the retaining member, the rotating member rotatable about an axis of rotation in a first direction to increase tension on the retaining member and in a second direction to decrease tension on the retaining member; at least one sensor positioned and configured to sense a change in a sensed parameter associated with the object; a control circuit configured to respond to an input from the sensor and to control the actuator in accordance with the input from the sensor, the control circuit configured to control the actuator to rotate the rotating member in the first or second direction to adjust the tension on the holding member based on the input from the sensor.

22. 22. The automatic retention system of claim 21, wherein the frame includes a linkage, and at least one of the plurality of automatic retention devices is attached to one side of the linkage, and at least one of the plurality of automatic retention devices is attached to another side of the linkage.

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