US20070213179A1 - Mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly - Google Patents
Mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly Download PDFInfo
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- US20070213179A1 US20070213179A1 US11/716,213 US71621307A US2007213179A1 US 20070213179 A1 US20070213179 A1 US 20070213179A1 US 71621307 A US71621307 A US 71621307A US 2007213179 A1 US2007213179 A1 US 2007213179A1
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Images
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
- A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
- A61H23/0218—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive with alternating magnetic fields producing a translating or oscillating movement
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H1/00—Apparatus for passive exercising; Vibrating apparatus ; Chiropractic devices, e.g. body impacting devices, external devices for briefly extending or aligning unbroken bones
- A61H1/005—Moveable platform, e.g. vibrating or oscillating platform for standing, sitting, laying, leaning
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
- A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
- A61H2023/0209—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive powered with frequencies not related to mains frequency
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2201/00—Characteristics of apparatus not provided for in the preceding codes
- A61H2201/50—Control means thereof
- A61H2201/5007—Control means thereof computer controlled
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0406—Standing on the feet
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2203/00—Additional characteristics concerning the patient
- A61H2203/04—Position of the patient
- A61H2203/0425—Sitting on the buttocks
- A61H2203/0431—Sitting on the buttocks in 90°/90°-position, like on a chair
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H2230/00—Measuring physical parameters of the user
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A61—MEDICAL OR VETERINARY SCIENCE; HYGIENE
- A61H—PHYSICAL THERAPY APPARATUS, e.g. DEVICES FOR LOCATING OR STIMULATING REFLEX POINTS IN THE BODY; ARTIFICIAL RESPIRATION; MASSAGE; BATHING DEVICES FOR SPECIAL THERAPEUTIC OR HYGIENIC PURPOSES OR SPECIFIC PARTS OF THE BODY
- A61H23/00—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms
- A61H23/02—Percussion or vibration massage, e.g. using supersonic vibration; Suction-vibration massage; Massage with moving diaphragms with electric or magnetic drive
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to a medical treatment apparatus for stimulating tissue growth and healing.
- the present disclosure relates to a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue conditions, as well as postural instability.
- tissue in a human body such as connective tissue, ligaments, bones, etc. all require time to heal.
- Some tissues, such as bone fracture in a human body require relatively longer periods of time to heal.
- a fractured bone must be set and then the bone can be stabilized within a cast, splint or similar type of device. This type of treatment allows the natural healing process to begin.
- the healing process for a bone fracture in the human body may take several weeks and may vary depending upon the location of the bone fracture, the age of the patient, the overall general health of the patient, and other factors that are patient-dependent. Depending upon the location of the fracture, the area of the bone fracture or even the patient may have to be immobilized to encourage complete healing of the bone fracture.
- Immobilization of the patient and/or bone fracture may decrease the number of physical activities the patient is able to perform, which may have other adverse health consequences.
- Osteopenia which is a loss of bone weight, can arise from a decrease in muscle activity, which may occur as the result of a bone fracture, bed rest, fracture immobilization, joint reconstruction, arthritis, and the like.
- this effect can be slowed, stopped, and even reversed by reproducing some of the effects of muscle use on the bone. This typically involves some application or simulation of the effects of mechanical stress on the bone.
- Promoting bone growth is also important in treating bone fractures, and in the successful implantation of medical prostheses, such as those commonly known as “artificial” hips, knees, vertebral discs, and the like, where it is desired to promote bony ingrowth into the surface of the prosthesis to stabilize and secure it.
- Numerous different techniques have been developed to reduce the loss of bone weight. For example, it has been proposed to treat bone fractures by application of electrical voltage or current signals (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,105,017; 4,266,533; or 4,315,503). It has also been proposed to apply magnetic fields to stimulate healing of bone fractures (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 3,890,953). Application of ultrasound to promoting tissue growth has also been disclosed (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,890,953).
- U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 A method for therapeutically treating damaged tissue in a body having a weight is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 includes the steps of (a) supporting the body on a platform; (b) oscillating the platform at a predetermined frequency to impart an oscillating force on the body; and (c) automatically determining the weight of the body, via a capacitor assembly operatively connected to the platform.
- the method described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 entails the treatment of damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, and other conditions.
- the patient stands on an oscillating platform apparatus configured to impart oscillating force on the body.
- a capacitor assembly is positioned adjacent the platform for automatically determining the weight of the body being supported on the platform. Once the weight of the body is determined, the amplitude of a frequency of the oscillating force is adjusted to provide a desired therapeutic treatment to the patient.
- the apparatus and method described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 provides an oscillating platform wherein the patient is subjected to a constant oscillating force.
- the peak-to-peak vertical displacement of the platform oscillating may be less than 2 mm.
- the present disclosure provides a mechanical loading apparatus having an oscillating platform and a signal modulating assembly for modulating an operating signal of the oscillating platform for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue condition, as well as postural instability.
- the signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure effectively modulates the operating signal such that the oscillating platform oscillates or vibrates at a frequency which simulates a human activity, such as, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- the mechanical loading apparatus further includes a control panel having control knobs or buttons for enabling a user to select a desired activity to be simulated by the mechanical loading apparatus.
- a processor assembly is included for receiving a signal from the control panel.
- the processor assembly is adapted for sending instructions to the signal modulating assembly for modulating the operating signal in accordance with the signal received from the control panel.
- the signal modulating assembly then modulates the operating signal of the oscillator in accordance with the instructions received from the processor assembly.
- the operating signal may include a variety of waveforms, such as, for example, a sinusoidal wave, half-sinusoidal wave, triangular wave, square wave, saw-tooth wave or trapezoidal wave, and the like.
- a method of therapeutically treating damaged tissue of a body by modulating the operating signal is also envisioned.
- FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an oscillating platform of the mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure
- FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating various circuitry blocks of the mechanical loading apparatus shown by FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 2A illustrates a control panel of the mechanical loading apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure
- FIG. 3A illustrates a signal waveform generated by the signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure
- FIG. 3B illustrates two signal waveforms generated by the signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an oscillating platform of a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure being mounted to an ergonomic hand support structure;
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of the ergonomic support structure having an ergonomic hand support structure, a monitor provided on a column and a platform for supporting the oscillating platform having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1 there is shown a mechanical loading apparatus for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue conditions, as well as postural instability.
- the mechanical loading apparatus can also be used for stimulating cartilage growth and for bony ingrowth.
- the mechanical loading apparatus includes an oscillating platform and a signal modulating assembly adapted for modulating an operating signal of the oscillating platform.
- the operating signal is modulated substantially in real-time in order for the oscillating platform to oscillate or vibrate in real-time at a frequency which simulates a human activity, such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- FIG. 1 a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated by FIG. 1 and is designated generally by reference numeral 100 .
- Mechanical loading apparatus 100 includes an oscillating platform 110 and a signal modulating assembly 152 .
- the oscillating platform 110 is highly stable and relatively insensitive to positioning of the patient on the platform 110 , while providing low displacement, high frequency mechanical loading of a body tissue sufficient to promote healing and/or growth of tissue damage, bone tissue, or reduce, reverse, or prevent osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue condition, as well as treat postural instability.
- Mechanical loading apparatus 100 is housed within a housing 102 and includes oscillating actuator 104 , capacitor assembly 106 , and signal modulating assembly 108 .
- the housing 102 includes upper plate or oscillating platform 110 , lower plate 112 and side walls 114 .
- Oscillating actuator 104 mounts to lower plate 112 by oscillator mounting plate 116 and connects to drive lever 118 by one or more connectors 120 . It is noted that FIG. 1 is partially cut away to show details of the connection of oscillating actuator 104 to drive lever 118 . At rest, the drive lever 118 is supported in static equilibrium at a first end thereof by a damping member or spring 122 . Damping lever 118 is activated by oscillating actuator 104 which causes drive lever 118 to pivot a fixed distance around drive lever pivot point 124 . Drive lever pivot point 124 is mounted on a drive lever mounting block 126 . Oscillating actuator 104 may be, for example, a voice coil.
- Oscillating actuator 104 actuates the drive lever 118 at a first predetermined frequency.
- the drive lever 118 oscillates between 30 and 100 Hz or at a frequency to simulate a human activity as described hereinbelow.
- the frequency is typically within the range or 25-40 Hz and fixed or varied in accordance with the treatment desired, i.e., bone fracture healing, postural instability treatment, osteoporosis treatment, cartilage growth stimulation, bony ingrowth, etc
- Oscillating platform 110 is preferably part of a harmonically excited system. Accordingly, the first predetermined frequency is equal to, or equivalent to, the resonant frequency, thus requiring minimum energy input.
- the resonant frequency is a function of the characteristics of the weight of the person and spring 122 .
- Spring 122 creates an oscillation force at a second predetermined frequency.
- One end of spring 122 is connected to spring mounting post 128 , which is supported to mounting block 130 , while the other end of spring 122 is connected to distributing lever support platform 132 .
- Distributing lever support platform 132 is connected to drive lever 118 by connecting plate 134 .
- the oscillating actuator 104 is selectively positioned along a portion of the length of the drive lever 118 .
- Connectors 120 can be manually adjusted to position the oscillating actuator 104 with respect to the drive lever 118 , and then readjusted when a desired position for the oscillating actuator 104 is selected. By adjusting the position of the oscillating actuator 104 , the vertical movement or displacement of the drive lever 118 can be adjusted.
- the oscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the drive lever pivot point 124 , then the vertical movement or displacement of the drive lever 118 at the opposing end near the spring 122 will be relatively greater than when the oscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the spring. Conversely, as the oscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the spring 122 , the vertical movement or displacement of the drive lever 118 at the end near the spring 122 will be relatively less than when the oscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the drive lever pivot point 124 .
- the positioning of the oscillating actuator 104 aids in oscillating the oscillating platform 110 to minimize the amount of power drawn while vibrating.
- capacitor assembly 106 includes a pair of capacitors 136 , 138 and a common plate 140 being positioned adjacent to a second end of drive lever 118 .
- the capacitor assembly 106 is configured to generate and transmit an electronic signal which is representative of a distance between at least one of the capacitors 136 and 138 , and common plate 140 for determining the weight of a patient on the upper plate 110 , as described by U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776, with reference to FIGS. 14A-C and FIGS. 15-16 .
- the mechanical loading apparatus 100 can also include two accelerometers for determining the weight of a patient as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/665,013 filed on Mar. 24, 2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- signal modulating assembly 108 will now be discussed.
- the primary function of signal modulating assembly 108 is to modulate the operating or drive signal of oscillating actuator 104 for oscillating platform 110 at frequencies which simulate human activities, such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- Signal modulating assembly 108 receives instructions from processor assembly 152 and, in turn, modulates the operating signal of oscillating actuator 104 according to the instructions received from processor assembly 152 .
- Signal modulating assembly 108 is preferably mounted to lower plate 112 of housing 102 by signal modulating mounting plate 142 .
- Signal modulating assembly 108 includes cable assembly 144 for operably connecting signal modulating assembly 108 to oscillating actuator 104 ; and cable assembly 146 for connecting signal modulating assembly 108 to processor assembly 152 .
- Processor assembly 152 is connected to a control panel 150 either wirelessly or via cable assembly 147 .
- Control panel 150 includes a plurality of control knobs or buttons for controlling signal modulating assembly 108 and permitting a user to select an activity to be simulated by mechanical loading apparatus 100 , such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc. Control panel 150 may also be touch sensitive wherein the user is able to select an activity by touching the appropriate section corresponding to the activity desired. Control panel 150 includes a window display 154 for displaying treatment information and other information to the user during vibrational treatment. Buttons 156 permit the user to select a desired human activity to be simulated by mechanical loading apparatus 100 . The user may choose to simulate walking, jogging, running, or stair climbing by selecting an appropriate button 156 . Moreover, the user may select an activity and then use speed button 158 to increase or decrease the frequency and intensity of oscillation.
- the user may subsequently switch to jogging or running by pressing the up arrow of display 158 .
- a signal is transmitted to processor assembly 152 which in turn sends instructions to modulating assembly 108 to increase the modulation (i.e., increase the frequency) of the operating signal of oscillating actuator 104 based on the received signal.
- the user may then return to a slower or a walking pace by pressing the down arrow of display 158 to decrease the modulation (i.e., decrease the frequency) of the operating signal of oscillating actuator 104 .
- the patient may choose from a variety of activities. For example, a user may choose to simulate walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- the user via control panel 150 , can select a preprogrammed series of activities, such as, for example, by pressing program A button 160 and program B button 162 , wherein program A button 160 enables mechanical loading apparatus 100 to execute treatment program A which can include simulating walking, jogging, and then walking again.
- program A button 160 enables mechanical loading apparatus 100 to execute treatment program A which can include simulating walking, jogging, and then walking again.
- a more intense program is presented by pressing program B button 162 , where mechanical loading apparatus 100 executes treatment program B which can include simulating walking, jogging, running, and walking again.
- a patient may customize the session by selecting custom button 164 , which permits the user to customize a treatment program for simulating one or more human activities during a treatment duration.
- control panel 150 includes a timer button 166 for displaying the elapsed time and a distance display button 168 for displaying the distance the patient would have traveled if he was actually performing the simulated human activities.
- a visual display panel 170 indicates diagrammatically the distance the patient would have traveled.
- Control panel 150 can further be designed for enabling a user to select a particular signal waveform for use in driving the signal modulating assembly 108 during at least a portion of the treatment duration.
- the signal waveform can be triangular, square, sinusoidal, half-sinusoidal, trapezoidal, saw-tooth, staircase, sweeping vibrational signal, continuous ramping (increasing diagonal signal), bursts with relaxation time as shown by FIG. 3A and without relaxation time (continuous bursts), and combinations thereof.
- the sweeping vibrational signal is a signal which sweeps from a first frequency to a second and final frequency.
- the sweeping vibrational signal can sweep from 30 Hz to 120 Hz in 24 minutes at increments of 30 Hz every 8 minutes during a treatment time of 32 minutes (30 Hz for the first eight minutes; 60 Hz for the second eight minutes; 90 Hz for the third eight minutes; and 120 Hz for the last eight minutes).
- the signal waveforms can also be generated by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 automatically and without any user selection or intervention.
- control panel 150 When a user selects an activity via control panel 150 or a particular signal waveform for modulating the operating signal of the oscillating actuator 104 , or the mechanical loading apparatus 100 automatically selects a signal for modulating the operating signal of the oscillating actuator 104 , a signal is sent to processor assembly 152 which generates instructions which are transmitted via signals to signal modulating assembly 108 .
- signal modulating assembly 108 When signal modulating assembly 108 receives the instructions from processor assembly 152 , signal modulating assembly 108 modulates the operating signal of the oscillating actuator 104 for simulating the desired human activity, or for driving the oscillating actuator 104 using the desired signal waveform as selected via control panel 150 or automatically selected by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 .
- Numerous other features may be added to control panel 150 , such as, for example, an incline button for controlling an incline mechanism within housing 102 to control incline and decline of oscillating platform 110 of mechanical loading apparatus 100 .
- Sinusoidal wave 302 is an operating signal for simulating walking.
- Sinusoidal wave 304 is an operating signal for simulating running.
- sinusoidal waves are illustrated in the figure, other waveforms are envisioned, such as, for example, trapezoidal waves, sinusoidal waves, half-sinusoidal waves, triangular waves, square waves, saw-tooth waves, etc.
- capacitor assembly 106 In operation, when a specific load is placed on upper plate 110 of housing 102 of mechanical loading apparatus 100 , i.e. a patient, capacitor assembly 106 automatically determines the weight of the body being supported on mechanical platform 100 , in a manner described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776. Once the weight of the body is determined, an amplitude of the frequency of the oscillating force is adjusted to provide a desired therapeutic treatment to the patient according to the patient's weight. The patient can then use control panel 150 to select one or more desired human activities to be simulated by the mechanical loading apparatus over the treatment duration, as described hereinabove.
- signal modulating assembly 108 When signal modulating assembly 108 receives the control signal from processor assembly 152 , signal modulating assembly 108 modulates the operating signal and transmits it to oscillating actuator 104 for changing the oscillation of platform 110 to simulate a human activity, such as walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- an ergonomic hand support structure is designated generally by reference numeral 200 .
- the ergonomic hand support structure 200 includes a frame 202 having a mounting tray 204 for placement of a mechanical loading apparatus 100 thereon.
- mechanical loading apparatus 100 is removable from mounting tray 204 .
- Mounting tray 204 is pivotable with respect to a vertical column 206 of frame 202 at one end of the vertical column 206 configured for standing frame 202 on a flat surface.
- Another end of vertical column 206 includes two parallel extension bars 208 protruding vertically from vertical column 206 .
- the two parallel extension bars 208 support a monitor 210 , two cup holders 212 and a hand support structure 214 .
- the two parallel extension bars 208 slide in and out of vertical column 206 for changing the height of the frame 202 by pulling on adjustment knob 209 .
- Monitor 210 receives control panel 150 displays treatment information and other information, including video, to a patient during vibrational treatment.
- Monitor 210 is provided within a monitor support 216 .
- monitor 210 is inlaid within the monitor support 216 for enabling a patient to place a book, laptop, etc. on the monitor support 216 without contacting the monitor 216 .
- the hand support structure 214 includes a curved holding bar 218 and a lateral holding bar 220 . It is desirable for the patient to grasp the lateral holding bar 220 when climbing on and off the mechanical loading apparatus 100 and to grasp the curved holding bar 218 during vibrational treatment.
- a patient suffering from damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other condition as well as postural instability can stand on mechanical loading apparatus 100 and be treated by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 .
- the curved holding bar 218 enables the patient to grasp and maintain his balance while being treated by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 .
- Ergonomic support structure 500 includes an ergonomic hand support structure 502 and a platform 504 for supporting a mechanical loading apparatus 100 a similar to mechanical loading apparatus 100 and having modulating signal assembly 108 .
- the mechanical loading apparatus 100 a is preferably removable from the platform 504 .
- the ergonomic hand support structure 502 includes a curved structure 506 having inner and outer curved walls 508 a, 508 b and two curved ends 510 a, 510 b connecting the two walls 508 a, 508 b.
- the patient grasps the long curved end 510 a or lightly touches the inner curved wall 508 a.
- the ergonomic support structure 500 further includes a seat 512 for placement on two opposing surfaces (not shown) defined by the inner curved wall 508 a. Accordingly, during vibrational treatment by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 a, the patient can sit on the seat 512 .
- the ergonomic support structure 500 further includes an RFID reader 514 for reading an RFID tag provided on the patient for identifying the patient.
- the RFID reader 514 further includes a display 516 for displaying patient identification data and other data, including video.
- the RFID reader 514 also includes a processor (not shown) storing patient-related data, such as patient identification data, and treatment data, such as, for example, the dates and duration times of the last five vibrational treatment sessions. The patient-related data for each particular patient is accessed and portions thereof displayed by the display 516 after the patient's corresponding RFID tag is read by the RFID reader 514 .
- the ergonomic support structure 500 further includes a vertical column 518 having a monitor 520 for displaying patient identification data and other data, such as patient treatment data, including video.
- the monitor 520 is inlaid within vertical column 518 for enabling the patient to place a book, laptop, etc. on vertical column 518 without contacting monitor 520 .
- Vertical column 518 is preferably height adjustable to accommodate patients of differing heights.
- Another monitor 522 is provided on the outer wall 508 b.
- the outer wall 508 b is further provided with a light source 524 above the monitor 520 and control buttons 526 .
- the support structures shown in FIGS. 4-5 with circuitry and related components for connecting to a network, such as the Internet, wirelessly and/or non-wirelessly and at least one processor for transmitting and receiving data via the network as known in the art.
- the data transmitted can include patient monitoring data to determine at a central monitoring station if the patient is complying with a treatment regiment and data to determine whether the patient is properly positioned on the mechanical loading apparatus 100 a to obtain optimum treatment effects.
- the data can include video and/or sensor data obtained by a video camera and/or at least one sensor mounted to the support structures and transmitted via the network to the central monitoring station.
- the data received can include Internet content and treatment-related data transmitted from the central monitoring station.
- the data received can include visual and/or audio content for viewing via the monitor 210 , 520 and/or listening via earphones connected to audio circuitry embedded within the support structure.
Abstract
Description
- This patent application claims priority to a provisional application filed on Mar. 9, 2006 and assigned U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/780,656; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present application is related to U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,843,776 and 6,884,227, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- 1. Technical Field
- The present disclosure relates generally to a medical treatment apparatus for stimulating tissue growth and healing. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue conditions, as well as postural instability.
- 2. Background of the Related Art
- When damaged, tissue in a human body such as connective tissue, ligaments, bones, etc. all require time to heal. Some tissues, such as bone fracture in a human body, require relatively longer periods of time to heal. Typically, a fractured bone must be set and then the bone can be stabilized within a cast, splint or similar type of device. This type of treatment allows the natural healing process to begin. However, the healing process for a bone fracture in the human body may take several weeks and may vary depending upon the location of the bone fracture, the age of the patient, the overall general health of the patient, and other factors that are patient-dependent. Depending upon the location of the fracture, the area of the bone fracture or even the patient may have to be immobilized to encourage complete healing of the bone fracture. Immobilization of the patient and/or bone fracture may decrease the number of physical activities the patient is able to perform, which may have other adverse health consequences. Osteopenia, which is a loss of bone weight, can arise from a decrease in muscle activity, which may occur as the result of a bone fracture, bed rest, fracture immobilization, joint reconstruction, arthritis, and the like. However, this effect can be slowed, stopped, and even reversed by reproducing some of the effects of muscle use on the bone. This typically involves some application or simulation of the effects of mechanical stress on the bone.
- Promoting bone growth is also important in treating bone fractures, and in the successful implantation of medical prostheses, such as those commonly known as “artificial” hips, knees, vertebral discs, and the like, where it is desired to promote bony ingrowth into the surface of the prosthesis to stabilize and secure it. Numerous different techniques have been developed to reduce the loss of bone weight. For example, it has been proposed to treat bone fractures by application of electrical voltage or current signals (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,105,017; 4,266,533; or 4,315,503). It has also been proposed to apply magnetic fields to stimulate healing of bone fractures (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 3,890,953). Application of ultrasound to promoting tissue growth has also been disclosed (e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 4,890,953).
- It is also known in the art that low level, high frequency stresses can be applied to the bone growth. One technique for achieving this type of stress is disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. A method for therapeutically treating damaged tissue in a body having a weight is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 includes the steps of (a) supporting the body on a platform; (b) oscillating the platform at a predetermined frequency to impart an oscillating force on the body; and (c) automatically determining the weight of the body, via a capacitor assembly operatively connected to the platform.
- The method described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 entails the treatment of damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, and other conditions. The patient stands on an oscillating platform apparatus configured to impart oscillating force on the body. A capacitor assembly is positioned adjacent the platform for automatically determining the weight of the body being supported on the platform. Once the weight of the body is determined, the amplitude of a frequency of the oscillating force is adjusted to provide a desired therapeutic treatment to the patient. The apparatus and method described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776 provides an oscillating platform wherein the patient is subjected to a constant oscillating force. The peak-to-peak vertical displacement of the platform oscillating may be less than 2 mm.
- The present disclosure provides a mechanical loading apparatus having an oscillating platform and a signal modulating assembly for modulating an operating signal of the oscillating platform for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other tissue condition, as well as postural instability. The signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure effectively modulates the operating signal such that the oscillating platform oscillates or vibrates at a frequency which simulates a human activity, such as, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- In a preferred embodiment, the mechanical loading apparatus further includes a control panel having control knobs or buttons for enabling a user to select a desired activity to be simulated by the mechanical loading apparatus. A processor assembly is included for receiving a signal from the control panel. The processor assembly is adapted for sending instructions to the signal modulating assembly for modulating the operating signal in accordance with the signal received from the control panel. The signal modulating assembly then modulates the operating signal of the oscillator in accordance with the instructions received from the processor assembly. The operating signal may include a variety of waveforms, such as, for example, a sinusoidal wave, half-sinusoidal wave, triangular wave, square wave, saw-tooth wave or trapezoidal wave, and the like. A method of therapeutically treating damaged tissue of a body by modulating the operating signal is also envisioned.
- Other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the disclosure.
- The foregoing features of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent and will be better understood by referring to the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, which are described hereinbelow with reference to the drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a side cross-sectional view of an oscillating platform of the mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; -
FIG. 2 is a flow diagram illustrating various circuitry blocks of the mechanical loading apparatus shown byFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 2A illustrates a control panel of the mechanical loading apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3A illustrates a signal waveform generated by the signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; -
FIG. 3B illustrates two signal waveforms generated by the signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view illustrating an oscillating platform of a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure being mounted to an ergonomic hand support structure; and -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating another embodiment of the ergonomic support structure having an ergonomic hand support structure, a monitor provided on a column and a platform for supporting the oscillating platform having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure. - With reference to
FIG. 1 , there is shown a mechanical loading apparatus for therapeutically treating damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue conditions, as well as postural instability. The mechanical loading apparatus can also be used for stimulating cartilage growth and for bony ingrowth. - The mechanical loading apparatus includes an oscillating platform and a signal modulating assembly adapted for modulating an operating signal of the oscillating platform. The operating signal is modulated substantially in real-time in order for the oscillating platform to oscillate or vibrate in real-time at a frequency which simulates a human activity, such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.
- Referring now in detail to the drawing figures, in which like references numerals identify similar or identical elements, a mechanical loading apparatus having a signal modulating assembly in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated by
FIG. 1 and is designated generally byreference numeral 100. -
Mechanical loading apparatus 100 includes anoscillating platform 110 and asignal modulating assembly 152. Theoscillating platform 110 is highly stable and relatively insensitive to positioning of the patient on theplatform 110, while providing low displacement, high frequency mechanical loading of a body tissue sufficient to promote healing and/or growth of tissue damage, bone tissue, or reduce, reverse, or prevent osteopenia, osteoporosis or other tissue condition, as well as treat postural instability. -
Mechanical loading apparatus 100 is housed within ahousing 102 and includesoscillating actuator 104,capacitor assembly 106, and signal modulatingassembly 108. Thehousing 102 includes upper plate or oscillatingplatform 110,lower plate 112 andside walls 114. - Oscillating
actuator 104 mounts tolower plate 112 byoscillator mounting plate 116 and connects to drivelever 118 by one ormore connectors 120. It is noted thatFIG. 1 is partially cut away to show details of the connection of oscillatingactuator 104 to drivelever 118. At rest, thedrive lever 118 is supported in static equilibrium at a first end thereof by a damping member orspring 122. Dampinglever 118 is activated by oscillatingactuator 104 which causes drivelever 118 to pivot a fixed distance around drivelever pivot point 124. Drivelever pivot point 124 is mounted on a drivelever mounting block 126. Oscillatingactuator 104 may be, for example, a voice coil. - Oscillating
actuator 104 actuates thedrive lever 118 at a first predetermined frequency. Preferably, thedrive lever 118 oscillates between 30 and 100 Hz or at a frequency to simulate a human activity as described hereinbelow. The frequency is typically within the range or 25-40 Hz and fixed or varied in accordance with the treatment desired, i.e., bone fracture healing, postural instability treatment, osteoporosis treatment, cartilage growth stimulation, bony ingrowth, etc -
Oscillating platform 110 is preferably part of a harmonically excited system. Accordingly, the first predetermined frequency is equal to, or equivalent to, the resonant frequency, thus requiring minimum energy input. The resonant frequency is a function of the characteristics of the weight of the person andspring 122. - The motion of the
drive lever 118 around the drivelever pivot point 124 is damped byspring 122.Spring 122 creates an oscillation force at a second predetermined frequency. One end ofspring 122 is connected to spring mountingpost 128, which is supported to mountingblock 130, while the other end ofspring 122 is connected to distributinglever support platform 132. Distributinglever support platform 132 is connected to drivelever 118 by connectingplate 134. - As described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, the
oscillating actuator 104 is selectively positioned along a portion of the length of thedrive lever 118.Connectors 120 can be manually adjusted to position theoscillating actuator 104 with respect to thedrive lever 118, and then readjusted when a desired position for theoscillating actuator 104 is selected. By adjusting the position of theoscillating actuator 104, the vertical movement or displacement of thedrive lever 118 can be adjusted. For example, if theoscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the drivelever pivot point 124, then the vertical movement or displacement of thedrive lever 118 at the opposing end near thespring 122 will be relatively greater than when theoscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the spring. Conversely, as theoscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards thespring 122, the vertical movement or displacement of thedrive lever 118 at the end near thespring 122 will be relatively less than when theoscillating actuator 104 is positioned towards the drivelever pivot point 124. The positioning of theoscillating actuator 104 aids in oscillating theoscillating platform 110 to minimize the amount of power drawn while vibrating. - With continued reference to
FIG. 1 and in accordance with the present disclosure,capacitor assembly 106 includes a pair of capacitors 136, 138 and a common plate 140 being positioned adjacent to a second end ofdrive lever 118. Thecapacitor assembly 106 is configured to generate and transmit an electronic signal which is representative of a distance between at least one of the capacitors 136 and 138, and common plate 140 for determining the weight of a patient on theupper plate 110, as described by U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776, with reference toFIGS. 14A-C andFIGS. 15-16 . Themechanical loading apparatus 100 can also include two accelerometers for determining the weight of a patient as described in U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/665,013 filed on Mar. 24, 2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. - With reference to
FIGS. 1-2 of the present disclosure,signal modulating assembly 108 will now be discussed. The primary function ofsignal modulating assembly 108 is to modulate the operating or drive signal of oscillatingactuator 104 for oscillatingplatform 110 at frequencies which simulate human activities, such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc. Signal modulatingassembly 108 receives instructions fromprocessor assembly 152 and, in turn, modulates the operating signal of oscillatingactuator 104 according to the instructions received fromprocessor assembly 152. - Signal modulating
assembly 108 is preferably mounted tolower plate 112 ofhousing 102 by signal modulating mountingplate 142. Signal modulatingassembly 108 includescable assembly 144 for operably connectingsignal modulating assembly 108 to oscillatingactuator 104; andcable assembly 146 for connectingsignal modulating assembly 108 toprocessor assembly 152.Processor assembly 152 is connected to acontrol panel 150 either wirelessly or viacable assembly 147. - With reference to
FIG. 2A , in conjunction withFIGS. 1-2 ,control panel 150 will now be discussed in detail.Control panel 150 includes a plurality of control knobs or buttons for controllingsignal modulating assembly 108 and permitting a user to select an activity to be simulated bymechanical loading apparatus 100, such as, for example, walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc.Control panel 150 may also be touch sensitive wherein the user is able to select an activity by touching the appropriate section corresponding to the activity desired.Control panel 150 includes awindow display 154 for displaying treatment information and other information to the user during vibrational treatment.Buttons 156 permit the user to select a desired human activity to be simulated bymechanical loading apparatus 100. The user may choose to simulate walking, jogging, running, or stair climbing by selecting anappropriate button 156. Moreover, the user may select an activity and then usespeed button 158 to increase or decrease the frequency and intensity of oscillation. - For example, if the user initially elects to simulate walking, the user may subsequently switch to jogging or running by pressing the up arrow of
display 158. Accordingly, a signal is transmitted toprocessor assembly 152 which in turn sends instructions to modulatingassembly 108 to increase the modulation (i.e., increase the frequency) of the operating signal of oscillatingactuator 104 based on the received signal. The user may then return to a slower or a walking pace by pressing the down arrow ofdisplay 158 to decrease the modulation (i.e., decrease the frequency) of the operating signal of oscillatingactuator 104. It is envisioned that the patient may choose from a variety of activities. For example, a user may choose to simulate walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc. - Alternatively, the user, via
control panel 150, can select a preprogrammed series of activities, such as, for example, by pressingprogram A button 160 andprogram B button 162, whereinprogram A button 160 enablesmechanical loading apparatus 100 to execute treatment program A which can include simulating walking, jogging, and then walking again. A more intense program is presented by pressingprogram B button 162, wheremechanical loading apparatus 100 executes treatment program B which can include simulating walking, jogging, running, and walking again. Moreover, a patient may customize the session by selectingcustom button 164, which permits the user to customize a treatment program for simulating one or more human activities during a treatment duration. Preferably,control panel 150 includes atimer button 166 for displaying the elapsed time and adistance display button 168 for displaying the distance the patient would have traveled if he was actually performing the simulated human activities. Avisual display panel 170 indicates diagrammatically the distance the patient would have traveled. -
Control panel 150 can further be designed for enabling a user to select a particular signal waveform for use in driving thesignal modulating assembly 108 during at least a portion of the treatment duration. The signal waveform can be triangular, square, sinusoidal, half-sinusoidal, trapezoidal, saw-tooth, staircase, sweeping vibrational signal, continuous ramping (increasing diagonal signal), bursts with relaxation time as shown byFIG. 3A and without relaxation time (continuous bursts), and combinations thereof. The sweeping vibrational signal is a signal which sweeps from a first frequency to a second and final frequency. For example, the sweeping vibrational signal can sweep from 30 Hz to 120 Hz in 24 minutes at increments of 30 Hz every 8 minutes during a treatment time of 32 minutes (30 Hz for the first eight minutes; 60 Hz for the second eight minutes; 90 Hz for the third eight minutes; and 120 Hz for the last eight minutes). The signal waveforms can also be generated by themechanical loading apparatus 100 automatically and without any user selection or intervention. - When a user selects an activity via
control panel 150 or a particular signal waveform for modulating the operating signal of theoscillating actuator 104, or themechanical loading apparatus 100 automatically selects a signal for modulating the operating signal of theoscillating actuator 104, a signal is sent toprocessor assembly 152 which generates instructions which are transmitted via signals to signal modulatingassembly 108. Whensignal modulating assembly 108 receives the instructions fromprocessor assembly 152,signal modulating assembly 108 modulates the operating signal of theoscillating actuator 104 for simulating the desired human activity, or for driving theoscillating actuator 104 using the desired signal waveform as selected viacontrol panel 150 or automatically selected by themechanical loading apparatus 100. Numerous other features may be added to controlpanel 150, such as, for example, an incline button for controlling an incline mechanism withinhousing 102 to control incline and decline ofoscillating platform 110 ofmechanical loading apparatus 100. - With reference to
FIG. 3B , two modulated operating signals of theoscillating actuator 104 are illustrated.Sinusoidal wave 302 is an operating signal for simulating walking.Sinusoidal wave 304 is an operating signal for simulating running. Although sinusoidal waves are illustrated in the figure, other waveforms are envisioned, such as, for example, trapezoidal waves, sinusoidal waves, half-sinusoidal waves, triangular waves, square waves, saw-tooth waves, etc. - In operation, when a specific load is placed on
upper plate 110 ofhousing 102 ofmechanical loading apparatus 100, i.e. a patient,capacitor assembly 106 automatically determines the weight of the body being supported onmechanical platform 100, in a manner described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,843,776. Once the weight of the body is determined, an amplitude of the frequency of the oscillating force is adjusted to provide a desired therapeutic treatment to the patient according to the patient's weight. The patient can then usecontrol panel 150 to select one or more desired human activities to be simulated by the mechanical loading apparatus over the treatment duration, as described hereinabove. Whensignal modulating assembly 108 receives the control signal fromprocessor assembly 152,signal modulating assembly 108 modulates the operating signal and transmits it to oscillatingactuator 104 for changing the oscillation ofplatform 110 to simulate a human activity, such as walking, jogging, running, stair climbing, etc. - With reference to
FIG. 4-5 ,mechanical loading apparatus 100 is preferably mounted to a supplemental support structure including an ergonomic hand support structure, as disclosed and described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/659,159, filed on Mar. 7, 2005, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. With particular reference toFIG. 4 , an ergonomic hand support structure is designated generally byreference numeral 200. The ergonomichand support structure 200 includes aframe 202 having a mountingtray 204 for placement of amechanical loading apparatus 100 thereon. Preferably,mechanical loading apparatus 100 is removable from mountingtray 204. Mountingtray 204 is pivotable with respect to avertical column 206 offrame 202 at one end of thevertical column 206 configured for standingframe 202 on a flat surface. Another end ofvertical column 206 includes two parallel extension bars 208 protruding vertically fromvertical column 206. - The two parallel extension bars 208 support a
monitor 210, twocup holders 212 and ahand support structure 214. The two parallel extension bars 208 slide in and out ofvertical column 206 for changing the height of theframe 202 by pulling onadjustment knob 209. -
Monitor 210 receivescontrol panel 150 displays treatment information and other information, including video, to a patient during vibrational treatment.Monitor 210 is provided within a monitor support 216. Preferably, monitor 210 is inlaid within the monitor support 216 for enabling a patient to place a book, laptop, etc. on the monitor support 216 without contacting the monitor 216. - The
hand support structure 214 includes acurved holding bar 218 and alateral holding bar 220. It is desirable for the patient to grasp thelateral holding bar 220 when climbing on and off themechanical loading apparatus 100 and to grasp thecurved holding bar 218 during vibrational treatment. - After the
mechanical loading apparatus 100 is placed on the mountingtray 204, a patient suffering from damaged tissues, bone fractures, osteopenia, osteoporosis, or other condition as well as postural instability can stand onmechanical loading apparatus 100 and be treated by themechanical loading apparatus 100. During treatment, thecurved holding bar 218 enables the patient to grasp and maintain his balance while being treated by themechanical loading apparatus 100. - With reference to
FIG. 5 , there is shown a perspective view of an ergonomic hand support structure designated generally byreference numeral 500.Ergonomic support structure 500 includes an ergonomichand support structure 502 and aplatform 504 for supporting a mechanical loading apparatus 100 a similar tomechanical loading apparatus 100 and having modulatingsignal assembly 108. The mechanical loading apparatus 100 a is preferably removable from theplatform 504. - The ergonomic
hand support structure 502 includes acurved structure 506 having inner and outercurved walls curved ends walls curved end 510 a or lightly touches the innercurved wall 508 a. - The
ergonomic support structure 500 further includes aseat 512 for placement on two opposing surfaces (not shown) defined by the innercurved wall 508 a. Accordingly, during vibrational treatment by the mechanical loading apparatus 100 a, the patient can sit on theseat 512. - The
ergonomic support structure 500 further includes anRFID reader 514 for reading an RFID tag provided on the patient for identifying the patient. TheRFID reader 514 further includes adisplay 516 for displaying patient identification data and other data, including video. TheRFID reader 514 also includes a processor (not shown) storing patient-related data, such as patient identification data, and treatment data, such as, for example, the dates and duration times of the last five vibrational treatment sessions. The patient-related data for each particular patient is accessed and portions thereof displayed by thedisplay 516 after the patient's corresponding RFID tag is read by theRFID reader 514. - The
ergonomic support structure 500 further includes avertical column 518 having amonitor 520 for displaying patient identification data and other data, such as patient treatment data, including video. Preferably, themonitor 520 is inlaid withinvertical column 518 for enabling the patient to place a book, laptop, etc. onvertical column 518 without contactingmonitor 520.Vertical column 518 is preferably height adjustable to accommodate patients of differing heights. Anothermonitor 522 is provided on theouter wall 508 b. Theouter wall 508 b is further provided with alight source 524 above themonitor 520 andcontrol buttons 526. - It is contemplated to provide the support structures shown in
FIGS. 4-5 with circuitry and related components for connecting to a network, such as the Internet, wirelessly and/or non-wirelessly and at least one processor for transmitting and receiving data via the network as known in the art. The data transmitted can include patient monitoring data to determine at a central monitoring station if the patient is complying with a treatment regiment and data to determine whether the patient is properly positioned on the mechanical loading apparatus 100 a to obtain optimum treatment effects. The data can include video and/or sensor data obtained by a video camera and/or at least one sensor mounted to the support structures and transmitted via the network to the central monitoring station. The data received can include Internet content and treatment-related data transmitted from the central monitoring station. The data received can include visual and/or audio content for viewing via themonitor - It will be understood that various modifications and changes in form and detail may be made to the embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting the disclosure but merely as exemplifications of preferred embodiments thereof.
Claims (21)
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