Use of light transmission through tissue to sense joint flexure
US9743860B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 8, 2013 |
| Grant date | Aug 29, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 5, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/01
- WIPO fieldMedical technology
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Various embodiments relate to apparatuses and methods of using light transmission thought living tissue, such as a finger, to detect the flexure of a joint. Light is introduced into the tissue at one point, passes through the tissue, and exits the tissue at a second point where a sensor receives the light as it exits the tissue. Transmission of light through living tissue such as a finger can be affected by movement of the finger. As the finger flexes and, for example, the joints of the finger change angle, the characteristics of the light exiting the tissue, such as the intensity of the light, can change. These changes in characteristics can be used as an indirect means of determining the flexure of the joint.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.