Patent ID: 7146220
Filing Date: 2006-12-05
Classification: A61N

Abstract:
1. A surface neuroprosthetic device for functional electrical stimulation (FES), the device comprising: a surface neuroprosthesis including: (a) at least a first exoskeletal shell and a second exoskeletal shell, each including an outer member having an at least semi-rigid material, said shells being configured to at least partly envelop a limb portion of a user; (b) at least one electrical stimulation electrode associated with, and supported by, at least said first exoskeletal shell, said first exoskeletal shell substantially covering and surrounding said at least one electrical stimulation electrode, and (c) a linear closure mechanism, connecting said shells, said mechanism designed to draw said shells together in a substantially linear fashion, such that when said limb portion is disposed between said shells, said closure mechanism applies to said electrical stimulation electrode, via said shells, a compressive force, so as to maintain a continuous electrical contract between said at least one electrode and a skin surface of said limb portion, thereby providing controlled, useful muscular function to said limb.