×

Goniometer-based body-tracking device and method

  • US 6,050,962 A
  • Filed: 04/21/1998
  • Issued: 04/18/2000
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/21/1997
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. An apparatus for measuring the relative spatial placement of two terminal links, said apparatus comprising:

  • a kinematic structure comprising a plurality of device links having terminal links and connected by device revolute joints with parallel axes;

    at least one of the following sensing devices;

    a first sensing device comprising a long resistive bend sensor extending over said revolute multiple joints from terminal link to terminal link; and

    a second sensing device comprising multiple short resistive bend sensors, with each sensor measuring one revolute joint angle;

    means for mounting said apparatus on a body part;

    means for holding said sensing devices in functional juxtaposition to said kinematic structure; and

    means for receiving electrical signals from said sensing device;

    wherein when said first sensing device is present, said first sensing device provides a signal for the entire angle between said terminal links; and

    when said second sensing device is present, said second sensing device provides a signal such that the relative position and orientation of said terminal links can be determined using forward kinematics.

View all claims
  • 3 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×