Importance

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Abstract

A medical system employs wireless transmission and provides sensory signals to a user of a prosthetic or other medical device. A series of pressure, force or strain sensors are placed upon various areas of the prosthetic device. The sensors are strategically placed according to anticipated functions of the prosthetic device and the sensors may be placed in clusters, where each cluster may include more than one sensor. The prosthetic device is normally operated by a biometric controller. The biometric controller is controlled by the handicapped user via muscles or other devices to enable the prosthetic device to perform various desired functions. During performing of such functions, the sensors will respond and produce outputs according to applied pressure or strain. These voltage outputs are transmitted by a transmitter to a remote receiver which is located on the body or person of the handicapped user. The receiver demodulates the transmitted signal to provide output signals proportional to the sensor signals as transmitted. These output signals are then directed to electrodes, probes or terminal pads imbedded in the body of the handicapped user by a physician or suitable technician. The imbedded probes or electrodes receive the sensor signals from the receiver and operate to stimulate the nerves so that a user can receive signals indicative of the force applied to given areas of the prosthetic device. In this manner the user can better control prosthetic device operation.

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First Claim