Electrical generator or motor structure – Non-dynamoelectric – Piezoelectric elements and devices
Reexamination Certificate
2000-01-27
2001-03-06
Ramirez, Nestor (Department: 2834)
Electrical generator or motor structure
Non-dynamoelectric
Piezoelectric elements and devices
C310S316020
Reexamination Certificate
active
06198204
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to active wear that overlies two relatively moveable portions of a human body.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Active wear, such as a sports bra, is generally worn as protective wear for temperature regulation, force control or motion restraint. Motion restraint can be implemented, for example, by increasing the stiffness of the material extending across a body joint or by compressing a body part on one side of a body joint.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a principal feature of the invention, an apparatus comprises an article of clothing and a piezoelectric transducer. The article of clothing is configured to overlie first and second relatively moveable portions of a human body so as to move in conformance with the relatively moveable body portions. The piezoelectric transducer is coupled to the article of clothing so as to undergo a deflection in response to the relative body movement. The relative body movement thus results in a kinetic energy. The transducer generates a voltage signal proportional to the magnitude of the deflection. An electrical component applies a resistance to the voltage signal. When this resistance is applied to the voltage signal of the transducer, the transducer dissipates the kinetic energy of the relative body movement and restrains the relative movement of the portions of the human body.
In accordance with another principal feature of the invention, the apparatus can include both sensing and actuating transducers. The sensing transducer generates a voltage signal proportional to the deflection induced by the relative movement of the body portions. The actuating transducer receives a control signal from the electrical component and stiffens the actuating transducer to damp the relative movement.
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Jones Day Reavis & Pogue
Medley Peter
Ramirez Nestor
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