Treadmill apparatus that measures gait parameters using four or fewer load cells

摘要

This gait analysis apparatus comprises three, and preferably four, vertical force sensors disposed between a treadmill and the ground. When a person walks on the treadmill belt, each force sensor emits an electronic signal proportional to the load on the frame. The sensors measure the load hundreds of times per second and that data, in combination with the speed of the treadmill belt, enables a processing unit to calculate many gait parameters. The resultant calculations are displayed to the clinician in numeric and graphical formats. Due largely to the few number of force sensors, the apparatus is relatively inexpensive compared to existing gait parameter apparatuses and can be easily retrofitted to existing treadmills by either replacing the treadmill's existing ground supports with force sensors or resting the treadmill on top of a frame that has integral force sensors.

主权项

1. A gait analysis apparatus comprising:
a) a base having a surface closest to the ground; b) four or fewer force sensors disposed between the base and the ground; and c) a treadmill belt connected to the base that, when walked on, causes each force sensor to emit an electronic signal proportional to the load on the base.