Patent ID: 6126373
Filing Date: 2000-10-03
Classification: B25J,G06F

Abstract:
An apparatus for controlling a device, the apparatus being arranged to be at least partially supported on and operated by a human appendage, the apparatus further being arranged to transmit signals to and receive signals from the device, the apparatus comprising:a positioning assembly substantially mounted on the human appendage, the positioning assembly for responding to motions of the human appendage, the positioning assembly further transmitting position signals to the device to control the device, wherein the positioning assembly includes a spring arranged to extend in response to the motions of the human appendage;a braking assembly for resisting motion of the positioning assembly, the braking assembly being coupled to the positioning assembly, the braking assembly being responsive to resistance signals received from the device, the resistance signals being substantially indicative of a force that is transmitted to the device wherein the braking assembly includes a brake, the brake being arranged to prevent the spring from extending in response to the resistance signals received from the devices, and a solenoid, the solenoid being arranged to activate the brake in response to the resistance signals received from the device, wherein the solenoid is in communication with the device; anda sensing assembly for transforming haptic signals received from the device into sensations felt by the human appendage, the sensing assembly being coupled to the positioning assembly.