Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device that is capable of providing a means to assist a user effectively and safely in stretching and relieving tension in the cervical spine of the user by providing adjustable and controlled traction to the neck to improve neck posture, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Stretching and relieving tension in the cervical spine often pose several challenges such as incorrect posture during stretching strain the neck muscles and worsen tension instead of alleviating it. Many individuals lack proper guidance on performing cervical stretches safely, leading to overextension or uneven pressure on the vertebrae. Pre-existing conditions, such as herniated discs or arthritis, exacerbate discomfort or result in injury during unsupervised stretching. Additionally, the cervical spine’s delicate structure and proximity to vital nerves and blood vessels make it susceptible to injury if stretches are performed abruptly or incorrectly. Limited mobility in the neck due to stiffness further complicates effective stretching, making it difficult to target deep-seated tension. External factors, such as sedentary lifestyles or prolonged poor posture, also contribute to persistent cervical spine tension, creating a cycle of discomfort. Thus, effective solutions must address these challenges while ensuring safety, comfort, and proper technique.

[0003] Traditional methods for cervical spine traction include manual therapy administered by professionals, over-the-door traction devices, or inflatable neck collars. While manual therapy is effective, it requires professional expertise, limiting its accessibility and convenience. Over-the-door devices and inflatable collars provide at-home solutions but lack precision and adjustability, often resulting in inconsistent traction or discomfort. These methods do not offer real-time feedback, progress tracking, or customization, making it difficult for users to monitor therapy effectiveness or adjust treatment parameters to suit their specific needs.

[0004] US5441379A discloses about an invention that has a cervical traction device comprises: a body including a shoulder portion, a head portion and a bellows which extends substantially across the width and height of the body between and connected to the head portion and to the shoulder portion and acting against and between substantially the full inner end surface of the head portion and the full inner end surface of the shoulder portion. The bellows, the shoulder portion and the head portion have aligned U-shaped openings therein adapted to receive a patient's neck. A hand operated air pump is connected to the bellows for pumping air into the bellows and for relieving or pumping air out of the bellows.

[0005] US5067483A discloses about an invention that has a portable cervical traction device for applying tractive forces to the cervical spine of a patient, having a head support means for the neck and head of the patient, including an occipital pad which has a reversed angled surface which causes increased cervical flexion when the device is in use and while ensuring contact between the back of the head and the occipital pad for comfort. The angle of the tractive force is also adjustable so as to isolate portions of the cervical spine for application of the traction. The invention further allows the patient to vary the tractive force applied through the use of an air cylinder, which is directly affixed to the head support means.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed for basic traction purposes but they often focus solely on applying force to the neck, without addressing alignment, therapy progress, or user-specific needs, and fail to provide insights into neck alignment, therapy outcomes, or recommendations for future sessions, leaving users with limited feedback on their treatment progress.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of assisting users in stretching and relieving tension in the cervical spine through adjustable and controlled traction, and provide personalized recommendations for future therapy sessions based on user preferences, needs, and previous outcomes, ensuring a suitable and effective treatment approach.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of assisting a user to stretch and relief tension in the cervical spine by providing adjustable and controlled traction to user’s neck to improve neck posture, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of displaying information such as neck alignment, therapy progress, force applied, and session timer, aiding the user to monitor therapy and adjust settings as needed.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of providing personalized recommendations for future therapy sessions for ensuring that each session is based on user’s preferences, needs, and previous treatment outcomes.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device that is capable of providing controlled and adjustable therapeutic traction to the cervical spine, by stretching and aligning the neck with customizable force and positioning, to reduce discomfort, increase flexibility, and promote overall spinal health.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device, comprising of a rectangular frame developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of an enclosure, multiple suction cups installed on a back portion of the frame for affixing the frame with the surface, a microphone embedded with the frame for receiving voice commands of a user regarding requirement of cervical exercise, a microcontroller linked with the microphone commands activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit provided on the frame to determine exact position of the user’s neck portion, an adjustable telescopic spreader beam fabricated with a cushioned padding attached with the frame via a L-shaped bar for engaging neck over the bar, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor configured on the frame and synced with the imaging unit to monitor facial structure and contours of the user, a motorized roller coiled with a flexible strap and provided on free-end of the beam and coupled with the bar, to rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise direction for adapting to facial structure of the user and accommodate the user’s neck over the bar, a thermal camera mounted on the frame to measure surface temperature of skin, a pair motorized pulley units, each coupled with a string connected to the beam is interfaced between the frame and beam to extend and retract the beam along with the user’s neck in a repetitive manner.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed invention further comprises of, a layer of cushioned padding is fabricated over the beam, providing a comfortable neck resting experience during prolonged use, an angle sensor installed on the frame to detect posture of the user, a motorized ball-and-socket joint integrated between the bar and frame for proper therapeutical treatment, a touch-interactive display unit attached with the frame via a L-shaped link to display information such as neck alignment, therapy progress, force applied, and session timer, aiding the user to monitor therapy and adjust settings as needed, and a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device that is capable of providing an effective means to stretch, align, and relieve tension in the cervical spine that results in a targeted therapy session that improves posture, enhances flexibility, and promotes healing for users experiencing neck-related issue.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device is illustrated, comprising a rectangular frame 101 integrated with multiple suction cups 102, a microphone 103 embedded with the frame 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 provided on the frame 101, an adjustable telescopic spreader beam 105 attached with the frame 101 via a L-shaped bar 106, and a motorized roller 107 coiled with a flexible strap 108 and provided on free-end of the beam 105 and coupled with the bar 106, a thermal camera 109 mounted on the frame 101, a pair motorized pulley units 110 each coupled with a string 111 connected to the beam 105, and a touch-interactive display unit 112 attached with the frame 101 via a L-shaped link 113.

[0023] The proposed device comprises of rectangular frame 101 made up of flexile material that allows for easy adjustment and positioning of the frame 101 on various surfaces to facilitate the accommodation of different user needs, such as varying neck sizes or preferred positions, enhancing the comfort and effectiveness of the cervical traction therapy. Herein, the frame 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of an enclosure.

[0024] Upon positioning of the frame 101 on the surface, multiple suction cups 102 installed on a back portion of the frame 101 affixes the frame 101 with the surface. The suction cups 102 create partial vacuum within the cups 102 upon pressing over the surface by squeezing out air from the cups 102 due to a negative pressure is generated inside suction area. Herein, atmospheric pressure outside the cup presses down low-pressure area inside the cups 102 to generate suction to adhere the frame 101 with the surface.

[0025] Upon fixing of the frame 101 with the surface, the user presses a switch button integrated with the frame 101 for activating the device. The switch button is internally connected with the device via multiple circuits that upon pressing by the user, the circuits get closed and starts conducting electricity through a microcontroller associated with the device that tends to activate the device and vice versa. After activation of the device, the user accesses a microphone 103 integrate with the frame 101 for giving voice commands regarding requirement of cervical exercise. The microphone 103 receives sound waves generated by energy emitted from the voice command in the form of vibrations. After then, the sound waves are transmitted towards a diaphragm configured with a coil.

[0026] Upon transmitting the waves within the diaphragm, the diaphragm strikes with the waves due to which the coil starts moving the diaphragm with a back-and-forth movement in presence of magnetic field generated from the coil. After then the electric signal is emitted from the coil due to back-and-forth movement of the diaphragm which is further transmitted to a microcontroller linked with the microphone 103 to process the signal to analyze the signal for detecting voice command given by the user. Upon processing the voice commands, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 provided on the frame 101 to detect exact position of the user’s neck portion.

[0027] The imaging unit 104 mentioned herein comprises of a camera 109 and processor that works in collaboration for detecting the exact position of the user’s neck portion. The camera 109 firstly captures multiple images of surrounding of the frame 101, wherein the camera 109 comprises of a frame 101, electronic shutter, lens, lens aperture, image sensor, and imaging processor that works in sequential manner to capture images of the surrounding. After capturing of the images by the camera 109, the shutter is automatically open due to which the reflected beam 105 of light coming from the surrounding due to light is directed towards the lens aperture. After that the reflected light beam 105 passes through the image sensor.

[0028] The image sensor now analyzes the beam 105 to retrieve signal from the beam 105 which is further calibrate by the sensor to capture images of the surrounding in electronic signal. Upon capturing images, the imaging processor processes the electronic signal into digital image. When the capturing is done, the processor associated with the imaging unit 104 processes the captured images by using a protocol of artificial intelligence to retrieve data from the captured image in the form of digital signal. The detected data in the form of digital signal is now transmitted to the microcontroller based on which the microcontroller acquires the data to detect the exact position of the user’s neck portion.

[0029] Based on the detected exact position of the user’s neck portion, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor synced with the imaging unit 104 configured on the frame 101 to detect facial structure and contours of the user. The LiDAR sensor works by emitting laser pulses and measuring the time it takes for the reflected light to return to the sensor to create a 3D map of the user’s facial structure and contours with high precision. The microcontroller processes this data to detect the facial structure and contours of the user. Herein, an adjustable telescopic spreader beam 105 fabricated with a cushioned padding attached with the frame 101 via a L-shaped bar 106 accessed by the user for engaging neck over the bar 106 providing a comfortable and effective cervical traction therapy.

[0030] Based on detecting the facial structure and contours of the user, the microcontroller actuates a motorized roller 107 coiled with a flexible strap 108 and provided on free-end of the beam 105 to rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise direction for securely adapting to facial structure of the user. The roller 107 is coupled with a motor that is activated by the microcontroller to rotate the roller 107 with specified speed in order to rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise direction of the strap 108 for securely adapting to facial structure of the user and accommodate the user’s neck over the bar 106. A thermal imaging camera 109 mounted on the frame 101 to measure surface temperature of skin. The thermal camera 109 works by capturing infrared radiation emitted from the user’s skin and converting it into a thermal image.

[0031] Based on the thermal image, the camera 109 to detect temperature variations across the neck area, which indicate inflammation or discomfort. The microcontroller processes this data to detect the inflammation around neck portion of the user. Upon detecting the inflammation around neck portion of the user, the microcontroller actuates a pair motorized pulley units 110, each coupled with a string 111 connected to the beam 105 is interfaced between the frame 101 and beam 105 to extend and retract the beam 105 along with the user’s neck in a repetitive manner for stretching the user’s neck for targeted relief.

[0032] The pulley units 110 mentioned herein works by utilizing a motor to drive the pulleys, which are connected to a string 111 or cord that runs along a guiding mechanism. The motors are controlled by the microcontroller, which adjusts the speed and direction of the pulleys based on the user’s neck posture and inflammation detected by the thermal camera 109. Based on rotating of the pulleys, the pulleys extend or retract the beam 105, providing a controlled and repetitive stretching motion to the user's neck to alleviate tension, improve circulation, and provide targeted therapeutic relief to the affected areas of the neck.

[0033] During exercise, an angle sensor is installed on the frame 101 to detect posture of the user, and detect improper neck alignment. The angle sensor works by measuring the orientation of the user's neck relative to the frame 101 using preferably a gyroscope. The sensor detects the angle of the neck by sensing changes in the position or tilt of the user's head. The data from the angle sensor is processed by the microcontroller, which identifies any misalignment or improper posture. If misalignment is detected, the microcontroller regulates actuation of the pulleys units 110 and accordingly actuates a motorized ball-and-socket joint integrated between the bar 106 and frame 101 for proper therapeutical treatment.

[0034] The ball and socket joint mentioned herein is a mechanical arrangement that consists of a ball-shaped component that fits into a socket, with a motor providing the necessary power to drive the rotation to provide angular movement to bar 106 for proper treatment. Also, a layer of cushioned padding is assembled over the beam 105 for providing a comfortable neck resting experience during prolonged use. The padding works by distributing pressure evenly across the neck area, reducing localized discomfort and preventing pressure points that cause irritation or strain. The soft, supportive padding conforms to the user's neck shape, providing cushioning that promotes relaxation and ensures a comfortable experience throughout the therapy session.

[0035] Additionally, a touch-interactive display unit 112 is assembled with the frame 101 via an L-shaped link 113 to display information such as neck alignment, therapy progress, force applied, and session timer for aiding the user to detect therapy and adjust settings as needed. The display panel mentioned herein works by works by using LCD (Liquid Crystals Display) that are manipulated by electric currents to control the passage of light through the display panel. When an electric current is applied, the liquid crystals align in a way that either allows light to pass through or blocks it, creating the images and colors that is being visible in the LCD of the display panel the information as neck alignment, therapy progress, force applied, and session timer, aiding the user to monitor therapy and adjust settings as needed.

[0036] Moreover, the microcontroller is pre-fed with a medical database that stores critical, user-specific information, such as details from previous therapy sessions, including treatment duration, intensity levels, and progress. This stored data is continuously analyzed by the microcontroller to generate personalized recommendations for future therapy sessions. By assessing the user's therapy history, the microcontroller create each session to meet the user’s unique needs, adjusting variables like session duration, intensity, and treatment type based on past responses and current condition. This adaptive functionality ensures that the therapy remains effective and aligned with the user’s progress over time.

[0037] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to offer power to all electrical and electronic components necessary for their correct operation. The battery is linked to the microcontroller and provides (DC) Direct Current to the microcontroller. And then, based on the order of operations, the microcontroller sends that current to those specific electrical or electronic components so they effectively carry out their appropriate functions.

[0038] The present invention works best in following manner that includes the rectangular frame 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of enclosure. Herein, the suction cups 102 affix the frame 101 with the surface. After that the microphone 103 receives voice commands of the user regarding requirement of cervical exercise. Upon receiving the user’s commands activates the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 to determine exact position of the user’s neck portion. After that the LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor synced with the imaging unit 104 detect facial structure and contours of the user, based on which the microcontroller regulates actuation the motorized roller 107 to rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise direction for securely adapting to facial structure of the user and accommodate the user’s neck over the bar 106. Also, the thermal camera 109 measures surface temperature of skin, in view of detecting inflammation around neck portion of the user. Based on detection, the microcontroller regulates actuation of the pulley units 110 in collaboration to extend and retract the beam 105 along with the user’s neck in a repetitive manner, thereby stretching the user’s neck for targeted relief.

[0039] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A cervical traction based neck exercising assistive device, comprising:

i) a rectangular frame 101 developed to be positioned on a fixed surface of an enclosure, wherein multiple suction cups 102 are installed on a back portion of said frame 101 for affixing said frame 101 with said surface;

ii) a microphone 103 embedded with said frame 101 for receiving voice commands of a user regarding requirement of cervical exercise, wherein a microcontroller linked with said microphone 103 upon receiving said user’s commands activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 104 provided on said frame 101 and integrated with a processor for capturing and processing multiple images in vicinity of said frame 101, respectively to determine exact position of said user’s neck portion;

iii) an adjustable telescopic spreader beam 105 fabricated with a cushioned padding attached with said frame 101 via a L-shaped bar 106, that is accessed by said user for engaging neck over said bar 106, wherein a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensor is configured on said frame 101 and synced with said imaging unit 104 to monitor facial structure and contours of said user, based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation a motorized roller 107 coiled with a flexible strap 108 and provided on free-end of said beam 105 and coupled with said bar 106, to rotate in clockwise or counterclockwise direction for securely adapting to facial structure of said user and accommodate said user’s neck over said bar 106;

iv) a thermal camera 109 mounted on said frame 101 to measure surface temperature of skin, in view of detecting inflammation around neck portion of said user, wherein a pair motorized pulley units 110, each coupled with a string 111 connected to said beam 105 is interfaced between said frame 101 and beam 105, and said microcontroller regulates actuation of said pulley units 110 in collaboration to extend and retract said beam 105 along with said user’s neck in a repetitive manner, thereby stretching said user’s neck for targeted relief.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a layer of cushioned padding is fabricated over said beam 105, providing a comfortable neck resting experience during prolonged use.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an angle sensor is installed on said frame 101 to detect posture of said user, and detect improper neck alignment, based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of said pulleys units 110 and a motorized ball-and-socket joint integrated between said bar 106 and frame 101 for proper therapeutical treatment.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a touch-interactive display unit 112 is attached with said frame 101 via a L-shaped link 113, said display unit 112 configured to display information such as neck alignment, therapy progress, force applied, and session timer, aiding said user to monitor therapy and adjust settings as needed.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is pre-fed with a medical database designed to hold important, user-specific information, including but not limited to previous therapy sessions, treatment duration, intensity levels, and progress, said stored information is utilized by said microcontroller to provide personalized recommendations for future therapy sessions, ensuring that each session is tailored to user’s preferences, needs, and previous treatment outcomes.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.