REHABILITATION APPARATUSES

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to systems and methods for physical rehabilitation and/or training, and more specifically, system and methods for retrofitting and/or upgrading an existing training/rehabilitation apparatus/equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Training and/or rehabilitation facilities utilize a variety of apparatuses/equipment, herein after referred to as "rehabilitation apparatus/es". Many of the commonly used rehabilitation apparatuses are not computerized and when used regularly, often become boring or unchallenging enough to use because of their inability to successfully encourage a user to continue exercising. Such non-computerized rehabilitation apparatuses are widely used, but not being computerized they cannot provide data related to the activity performed thereon to the therapist in charge, control the activity on a particular apparatus in real time, control the overall activity of the patient/user and supply encouragement and follow-up by documenting the progress of a given patient/trainee on a specific apparatus, etc. There is therefore a need for a system and a method for retrofitting and/or upgrading

(hereinafter referred to as "retrofitting") rehabilitation apparatuses, to thereby provide incentives to the user whether a patient or a trainee (hereinafter referred to as "user") to perform the required activity, provide data related to the activity performed to the therapist or trainer in charge (hereinafter referred to as "therapist"), facilitate controlling the activity, in real-time, either by the user or the therapist, locally or remotely, control the overall activity of the user on multiple rehabilitation apparatuses and allow the therapist and the user to assess the progress of the user, etc.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The principal intentions of the present invention include providing system and/or method for retrofitting and/or upgrading existing, non-computerized rehabilitation apparatuses. According to the teachings of the present invention, there is provided a computerized rehabilitation system, providing and/or using retrofitted existing rehabilitation apparatuses, each being in actual use or is designed as a non-computerized rehabilitation apparatus. Optionally, the computerized rehabilitation system includes a computerized incentive game, such as a video game, wherein the game is tailored to the activity of the rehabilitation apparatus being retrofitted. The system further includes one or more sensors to track down the physical activity of the user in order to move the game accordingly, in real-time, and to monitor and document the performance of the user. The incentive game is configured to control the training parameters of the associated retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and collect statistical data associated with the performance of the trainee.

Hence, according to the teachings of the present invention, there is provided a rehabilitation-managing system includes at least one retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and a computerized rehabilitation managing unit including at least one client application associated with the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus. The retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus includes a computerized device, least one sensor configured to sense in real time data associated with the activity performed on the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and a user feedback output device, wherein the feedback is selected from the group including a visual feedback, an audio feedback or a vibrating feedback.

The client application is configured to receive a rehabilitation program associated with a trainee. Upon activating a training session activity, the client application is preconfigured to collect activity data associated with the training session activity, using the computerized device, as performed by the trainee, and to generate trainee-feedback data and providing the trainee-feedback data to the trainee, using at least the user feedback output device.

Preferably, the client application is further configured to generate trainer-feedback data for a therapist of the trainee and provide the trainer-feedback data to the therapist.

The computerized device is selected from the group including a tablet, a smart phone, a laptop and a computer. The user feedback output device is selected from the group including a display, a speaker, a vibrator and light indicator a VR (Virtual Reality), an AR (Augmented Reality) and/or a MR (Mixed Reality). The at least one sensor is selected from the group of sensors including an accelerometer, a gyro, a barometric pressure sensor, tension sensor, torque, sensor, RFID, leap motion sensor, image sensor, magnetic sensor, proximity sensor and a PIXY camera.

The computerized device is configured to run a training incentive game associated with the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and wherein the client application is configured to execute the steps of the training incentive game according to the received rehabilitation program.

The rehabilitation-managing system may further include a remote server, such as a cloud server, and a database coupled to operate with the remote server, wherein the remote server is configured to collect data from throughout the rehabilitation-managing system, maintain updated training programs, and keep the at least one operatively connected retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus updated.

The rehabilitation-managing system may further include a back-office computer, the back-office computer including a rehabilitation management software system, wherein the rehabilitation management software system is configured to allow an authorized person to collect data from the at least one operatively connected retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, review and manage the collected data, including setting and changing the rehabilitation management software system, to thereby manage the treatment plans of the at least one retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus. The rehabilitation-managing system may further include a rehabilitation mobile application for running on personal smart mobile device of a user, the user having the at least one operatively connected retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, wherein an authorized person of a rehab institute is allowed to communicate with the smart mobile device of the user, and wherein the communication is selected from a group of messages including presenting the user with training instructions, updating training instructions, presenting training achievements and status, and receiving messages from a therapist.

The retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is selected from a group of apparatuses including a retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder, a retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise- ball, a retrofitted active-passive bike trainer, a retrofitted balance-training flat pad, a retrofitted wall-board apparatus and a retrofitted pressure-bag measuring apparatus.

According to further teachings of the present invention, there is provided a retrofitted apparatus that includes an existing, non-computerized rehabilitation apparatus; a computerized device; at least one sensor configured to sense in real time data associated with the activity performed on the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus; and a user feedback output device, wherein the feedback is selected from the group including a visual feedback, an audio feedback or a vibrating feedback. The client application is configured to receive a rehabilitation program associated with a trainee.

Upon activating a training session activity, the client application is preconfigured to collect activity data associated with the training session activity, using the computerized device, as performed by the trainee; and to generate trainee-feedback data and providing the trainee-feedback data to the trainee, using at least the user feedback output device.

The computerized device is configured to run a training incentive game associated with the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and wherein the client application is configured to execute the steps of the training incentive game according to the received rehabilitation program. The the retrofitted rehabilitation is selected from a group of apparatuses including a retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder, a retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball, a retrofitted active-passive bike trainer, a retrofitted balance-training flat pad, a retrofitted wall-board apparatus and a retrofitted pressure-bag measuring apparatus.

The retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder includes a non-computerized shoulder- exercise-ladder; at least one sensor configured to sense the position of a bar and determine the time interval passed for the bar to move from one specific level of steps to another specific level of steps; and optionally, a game associated with the moving of the bar from one specific level of steps to another specific level of steps.

The retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball includes a non-computerized arm- and-shoulder-exercise-ball; at least one sensor configured to sense the position changes of the non-computerized arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball on a flat wall; and optionally, a game associated with the moving of the position changes of the non-computerized arm- and-shoulder-exercise-ball on the flat wall.

The retrofitted active-passive bike trainer includes non-game controlled active- passive bike trainer; at least one sensor configured to sense the rotational speed of the pedals of the non-game controlled active-passive bike trainer; and optionally, a game associated with the moving of the rotational speed of the pedals of the non-game controlled active-passive bike trainer.

The retrofitted balance-training flat pad includes a non-computerized balance- training flat pad; at least one sensor configured to sense the balance status of the trainee being trained to stand on the balance-training flat pad; and optionally, a game associated with the balance status of the trainee.

According to further teachings of the present invention, there is provided a rehabilitation method for conducting a rehabilitation or training of a trainee having a rehabilitation program, the trainee using at least one retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus. The method including the steps of: a) providing the at least one retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus; b) starting a training session in accordance with the rehabilitation program of the trainee; c) collecting activity data associated, as performed by the trainee using the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus; and d) generating trainee-feedback data and providing the trainee-feedback data to the trainee.

The computerized device is configured to run a training incentive game associated with the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, and wherein the rehabilitation method further includes a step of configuring the programable parameters of the training incentive game to fit the rehabilitation program of the trainee, the configuring step is performed before the starting of a training session.

The rehabilitation method may further include the step of generating trainer- feedback data for a therapist of the trainee and providing the trainer-feedback data to the therapist.

The rehabilitation method may further include the step of updating the

rehabilitation program of the trainee by the therapist, based on the received trainer- feedback data.

Preferably, the configuring of the programable parameters of the training incentive game is performed by the therapist. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will become fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings, which are given by way of illustration and example only and thus not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:

Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary system for managing rehabilitation programs of patients using retrofitted/upgraded (herein after referred to as "retrofitted") rehabilitation/training (herein after referred to as "rehabilitation") apparatuses, according to embodiments of the present invention, where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention.

Fig. 2a is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is a shoulder-exercise-ladder, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention.

Fig. 2b depicts the retrofitted training apparatus shown in Fig. 2a, being used by a user. Fig. 2c illustrates another example of a retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder, being a rehabilitation apparatus, similar to the retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder shown in Figs. 2a and 2b.

Fig. 2d is a magnified view A of an additional, sensor that may be embedded into one or more steps of the shoulder-exercise-ladder, as shown in Fig. 2c. Fig. 3 depicts the retrofitted training apparatus shown in Fig. 2a, including a control unit.

Fig. 4 is a schematic flow chart showing an exemplary basic method for managing rehabilitation programs of patients using retrofitted training apparatus, according to embodiments of the present invention. It is made clear that covered embodiments may include only parts of this scheme. Fig. 5 is an exemplary session control screen for a selected game.

Fig. 6a is an exemplary graphical and statistical screen of one or more sessions of a training game.

Fig. 6b is an exemplary statistical bar chart, representing multiple training sessions, as performed by a trainee, using the shoulder-exercise-ladder training game.

Fig. 7a is a schematic block diagram showing another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is an arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball, the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus including a first game, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention.

Fig. 7b (prior art) depicts a non-retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball, being used by a user.

Fig. 7c depicts a retrofitted training apparatus, being used by a user, wherein the retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball includes at least one transmitting sensor.

Fig. 7d is a schematic block diagram showing another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some variation embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is an arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball as shown in Fig. 7c, but the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus including a second game for execution more training elements.

Fig. 7b (prior art) depicts a non-retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball, being used by a user.

Fig. 7e depicts the retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball utilizing the second game. Fig. 8a is a schematic block diagram showing another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is an active-passive bike trainer, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention.

Fig. 8b depicts a portion of the retrofitted active-passive bike trainer, being used by a user. Fig. 8c depicts an example game coupled to operate with the retrofitted active-passive bike trainer, as shown in Figs. 8a and 8b.

Fig. 8d depicts an exemplary session control screen for a selected game controlling an active-passive bike trainer.

Fig. 8e depicts a statistical summary of a training session using a selected game that controls an active-passive bike trainer.

Fig. 8f depicts instructions to the trainee to push harder with the "weak" leg.

Fig. 9a illustrates another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is a balance-training flat pad, wherein not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention, and wherein the flat pad is shown in a balanced state.

Fig. 9b depicts the retrofitted balance-training flat pad shown in Fig. 9a, wherein the flat pad is shown in an imbalanced state. Fig. 10a depicts a retrofitted wall-board apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 10b depicts a variation of the retrofitted wall-board apparatus shown in Fig. 10a.

Fig. 10c depicts a variation of the retrofitted wall-board apparatus shown in Fig. 10a. Fig. 11a depicts a retrofitted pressure-bag measuring apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 11a depicts an example pressure gage of the retrofitted pressure-bag measuring apparatus, shown in Fig. 11a.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided, so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

An embodiment is an example or implementation of the inventions. The various appearances of "one embodiment," "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment. Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

Reference in the specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment", "some embodiments" or "other embodiments" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiments is included in at least one embodiment, but not necessarily all embodiments, of the inventions. It is understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are not to be construed as limiting and are for descriptive purpose only.

Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. The present invention can be implemented in the testing or practice with methods and materials equivalent or similar to those described herein. It should be noted that orientation related descriptions such as "bottom", "up", "upper", "down", "lower", "top" and the like, assumes that the associated item is operationally situated.

Reference is made to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary system 100 for managing rehabilitation programs of patients using retrofitted training apparatuses, according to embodiments of the present invention, where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention. Rehabilitation managing system 100 includes at least one retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus ("retrofitted apparatus") 110, a computerized device 112, such as a tablet, for running a selected game associated with the retrofitted apparatus 110, at least one sensor 116, designed to monitor a user's 20 (trainee 20) activity, and a computerized managing unit 114, having a coupled client application module 130 that controls the training activity of the particular retrofitted apparatus 110. It should be noted that each retrofitted apparatus 110 is designed to rehabilitate one or more targeted body organs of user 20. Computerized device 112 is coupled with at least one user-feedback output device, wherein the feedback is selected from the group including a visual feedback, an audio feedback or a vibrating feedback. User-feedback output device may be, with no limitations, a display screen device 113, for example that of a tablet. It should be noted that the visual display/feedback may utilize visual means such as VR (Virtual Reality), AR (Augmented Reality) and/or MR (Mixed Reality). Client application module 130 includes at least one game 132 coupled to operate with a specific type of retrofitted apparatus 110, a processing logic 134 that facilitates to accomplish the training tasks targeted by the specific type of retrofitted apparatus 110, and optionally, when at least one of the sensors is an image acquisition device 116a, an image processing process 136 to retrieve user's 20 activity from the acquired image frames. Each type of retrofitted apparatus 110 has its own client application module 130 and at least one game tailored to that specific type of retrofitted apparatus 110. The at least one game 132 is also coupled to operate with a selected display screen device 113, allowing trainee 20 to receive feedback on the progress of his/her game playing.

Rehabilitation managing system 100 may further include a remote server, such as a server 122 of a cloud 70, and a database 124 coupled to operate with server 122. Server 122, having a server application 120 running thereon, collects data from throughout the system, maintains updated training programs and keeps the at least one operatively connected retrofitted apparatus 110 updated. Rehabilitation managing system 100 may further include a remote back office computer facilitating an authorized person to collect data from each individual retrofitted apparatus 110, operatively connected thereto, to review the data and manage, including setting and changing the rehabilitation management software system 140, to thereby manage the treatment plans.

Rehabilitation managing system 100 may further include a rehabilitation mobile application 150 for running on a user's 20 personal smart mobile device, facilitating a rehab institute to communicate with an outpatient, having one or more retrofitted apparatuses 110 available to that user 20. The communication may include presenting user 20 with training instructions, updating training instructions, presenting training achievements and status, receiving messages from a therapist or trainer 30, etc.

Rehabilitation managing system 100 may manage a variety of retrofitted apparatuses

110. In a first example, with no limitations, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide a retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder, designed to strengthen the shoulder belt of a trainee 20. However, the present invention is not limited to the retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder, and other retrofitted training apparatus 110 are within the scope of the present invention.

Reference is now made back to the drawings. Fig. 2a is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary retrofitted training apparatus 110, being a shoulder-exercise-ladder

111, according to some embodiments of the present invention, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention. Fig. 2b depicts an example retrofitted shoulder- exercise-ladder 111, being used by a user 20. Fig. 2c illustrates another example of a retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111, wherein Fig. 2d is a magnified view A of an additional sensor 116b, being a pressure sensor, that may be embedded into one or more steps 54 of the shoulder retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111. It should be noted that this mechanic sensor 116b can be replaced with another sensor, such as camera 116a, as shown in fig. 3.

Fig. 3 depicts retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111, including an example control unit 114.

In this particular training apparatus 50, the objective is to move the bar 52 from one level of steps 54 to another level of steps 54. The weight of bar 52 may be adjusted with a predetermined one or more weights 56.

In this example, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111 includes a processing and display unit 112, such as a tablet, and at least one sensor 116 for sensing the activity of a user 20, thereby facilitating monitoring and tracking the performance of user 20. Typically, with no limitations, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111 may further include a control unit 114. Typically, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111 may further include operating buttons/switches 118, for example for powering ON and OFF, for volume control, etc.

A rehab training session is led by a selected game 132 that is tailored to realize the targets of a rehab training session carried out on retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111, as well as original shoulder-exercise-ladder training apparatus 50. A variety of games 132 may be tailored to a target training apparatus, wherein a particular game 132 or a combination of two or more games 132 may be used to cover all the training objectives of a particular retrofitted apparatus 110.

In the example shown in Fig. 2b, game 132a is a ladder climbing game, wherein the climbing corresponds to the lifting of bar 52 from one level of steps 54 to another level of steps 54. It should be noted that game 132a is part of client application 130a. In the example shown in Fig. 3, game 132b, being part of client application 130b, includes multiple cars situated in several horizontal lanes, wherein the number of lanes correspond to the number of steps 54 in ladder 50. The game configuration may take a variety of settings. In some embodiments, one car 135 is associated with user 20 and is having a specific color (for example red), wherein car 135 is situated in an initial lane that corresponds to the initial position of bar 52 in ladder 50. Other cars 137, having a different color (for example cyan), are situated in multiple lanes, and are moving towards the user's 20 car 135. Some spaces are left open in selected lanes.

The user needs to move "his/her" car 135 to a vacant lane to avoid collision with other cars 137, moving in his direction, wherein the change of lanes corresponds to the lifting of bar 52 from one level of steps 54 to another level of steps 54. Hence, when the user sees that the free spaces in front of "his/her" car 135 are running out, spaces become available in an adjacent lane that corresponds to the target step level 54 in the ladder that his rehab program designs him/her to move bar 52. By moving bar 52, car 135 moves to the spaces in the adjacent lane and the game may proceed. The speed of the moving cars and other parameters of the game, may be configured.

Reference is now also made to Fig. 4, showing a schematic flow chart of an exemplary basic method 200 for managing rehabilitation programs of patients using a retrofitted training apparatus, according to embodiments of the present invention. It is made clear that the provided embodiments may include only parts of this scheme. This example method 200 is described in terms of the retrofitted training apparatus being retrofitted shoulder-exercise-ladder 111, but not limited for use in association with retrofitted shoulder- exercise-ladder 111 and may be adjusted to fit any game to any retrofitted training apparatus, as may be obvious to an average person of the art. The schematic flow chart shown in Fig. 4 is subdivided into crossing sections, wherein the horizontal sub-division is subdivided into a configuration section 210 activities and a training section 220 activities. Vertically, the schematic flow chart, as shown (with no limitations) is subdivided into 4 (four) spaces: cloud space 290, a tablet space 270 a camera space 260 and a user space 250. Starting at the user space 250, the method proceeds as follows:

Step 251 & Step 271: active user 20 logs in.

User 20 identifies himself/herself to the system, by, for example, logging in.

Reference is made to Fig. 5, showing an exemplary session control screen 160, including trainee identification data, for example in a login area 162, for selecting a game and for selecting optional parameters for the selected game, for example in a training definitions area 164.

Step 252: Button/stick/ other - activated.

User 20 may select a game 132, and select and configure the selected game parameters, for example, using session control screen 160 or similar means. User 20 may move bar 52 to help him/her select the desired parameters. Bar 52 may include marks and other means to help in the configuration process.

It should be noted again that bar 52 is used here as an example only and for other training apparatuses 110 other objects may be moved, for example a button, a stick, a pedal, etc., in which object motion may be detected by one or more sensors, such as image acquisition device 116a. Image acquisition device 116a facilitates monitoring and tracking the performance of user 20.

Step 261: motion sensing.

User 20 may select a game 132, and select and configure the selected game parameters, for example, using session control screen 160 or similar means. User 20 may move bar 52 to help him/her select the desired parameters. Bar 52 may include marks and other means to help in the configuration process. Should bar 52 been moved, one or more sensors, such as image acquisition device 116a senses that motion and provide sensed-data.

Step 281: motion detection.

Should one or more sensors sense that motion, an image processing is activated to detect that motion from the sensed-data.

272: was motion detected?

Has the motion detection process detected any motion of bar 52?

If yes, go to step 252.

273: timeout was detected?

Motion was not detected.

Has a timeout limit for this process been reached?

If not, go to either step 271 or step 252.

274: is the configuration procedure complete?

Timeout was reached.

Is the configuration procedure complete?

If not, go to step 252.

275: configuration completed - open session.

Configuration completed.

Download the training program, for the specific user 20, from database 124 of server application 120, and update the training program with the new parameters/settings, if any.

Open the training session, including starting selected game 132 - in this example: car game 132b, as depicted in Fig. 3.

Step 284: Game screen presented.

The game screen associated with the selected game 132b is presented to the user. Step 253: Button/stick/ other - activated.

User 20 may have selected a game 132, wherein in the current example game 132b was selected. In this example, one car 135 is associated with user 20 and is having a specific color (for example red), wherein car 135 is situated in an initial lane that corresponds to the initial position 54 of bar 52 in ladder 50, being shoulder-exercise- ladder 111. Other cars 137, having a different color (for example cyan), are situated in multiple lanes, and are moving towards the user's 20 car 135. Some spaces are left open in selected lanes.

The user needs to move "his/her" car 135 to a vacant lane to avoid collision with other cars 137, moving in his direction, wherein the change of lanes corresponds to the lifting of bar 52 from one level of steps 54 to another level of steps 54. Hence, when the user sees that the free spaces in front of "his/her" car 135 are running-out spaces become available in an adjacent lane that corresponds to the target step level 54 in the ladder that his rehab program wants him/her to move bar 52. By moving bar 52 car 135 to the spaces in the adjacent lane and the game may proceed. The speed of the moving cars and other parameters of the game, may be configured. In the example shown in Fig. 3, after two cyan cars 137 in each of the adjacent lanes pass car 135 free spaces in front of "his/her" car 135 are running-out in its lane, but spaces become available in the adjacent lane below the current lane. This means that user 20 needs to lower bar 52 step level 54 just below the current level position of bar 52, in order for the game to proceed. If user 20 fails to lower bar 52 step level 54 just below the current level position of bar 52, the game will stop.

Step 262: motion sensing.

Should bar 52 been moved by user 20, one or more sensors, such as image acquisition device 116a sense that motion and provide corresponding sensed-data.

Step 282: motion detection.

Should one or more sensors sensed that motion, an image processing is activated to detect that motion from the sensed-data.

Step 283: was motion detected?

Has the motion detection process detected any motion of bar 52?

If so, go to step 285.

Step 276: is the bar in target position?

Is bar 52 in target position? This may be sensed by camera 116a, pressure sensor 116b or any other sensor.

If yes, go to step 285. Step 275a: timeout was detected?

Motion was not detected and bar 52 not in target position.

Has a timeout limit for this process been reached?

If not, go to step 253.

Else, go to of step 277, as the timeout limit for this process has been reached. User may have gone.

Step 275b: timeout was detected?

Motion was not detected.

Has a timeout limit for this process been reached?

If not, go to step 289.

Step 277: close the current training session.

Tablet performs closing procedure of the current training session.

Step 278 & 291: Upload rehab program.

Tablet Upload rehab program to the appropriate database 124 of server application 120, wherein the rehab program of user 20, the appropriate database 124 is updated.

Step 278 & 292: Upload rehab program.

Tablet Upload rehab program to the appropriate database 124 of server application 120, wherein the log of the closing training session, is added to the appropriate database 124.

Go to EXIT 279.

Step 285: the car of user 20 changes lane.

Motion of bar 52 was detected and completion of that motion has been detected. Such completion of that motion can be detected by either sensor 116a and/or by another sensor, such as pressure sensor 116b (see Fig. 2d), when sat in in the target step 54.

Then, the user's 20 car 135 moves into the free lane below the previous lane.

Step 286: is the current lane free?

Has a collision occurred?

If yes, go to step 288. Step 287: continue rehab session.

Collision has not occurred.

It should be noted that the rehab session may here be altered to change the training session various performances of the specific user 20 that have been detected. For example, specifics of his illnesses may be detected and/or specific handicaps, and/or other parameters. For example, User may be monitored while training to measure his heartrate, blood pressure, breathing, shivering, etc.

Go to step 284.

Step 288: game stops.

Collision has occurred - game stops.

Step 289: does the user want to proceed?

User 20 is given a time interval to decide to proceed with the game.

If user 20 decides to proceed, go to step 253.

Else, go to step 275b. [end of method 200]

Reference is now made to Fig. 6a showing an exemplary graphical and statistical screen 170 of one or more sessions of a training game. Fig. 6a shows an example integration between movement data and game interaction data. The green line 175 that shows the bar movement turn red (173) when the game is in a car 135 collision status.

Reference is also made to Fig. 6b showing an exemplary statistical bar chart 180, representing multiple training sessions, as performed by a trainee, using a shoulder- exercise-ladder training game. Fig. 6b shows a performance example, wherein each bar represents a training session (184), and wherein each color represents a bar level according to index 182, and wherein each color height represents the time spent on each bar level.

It should be noted that other various alerts may be added to the system. For example, when using shoulder-exercise-ladder 111, if user 20 drops bar 52, such event can be detected using image acquisition sensor 116a, and an alarm may be set ON to alert the training session supervisor. An alarm may also be set ON to alert the training session supervisor, when a threshold value of a physiological parameter of a user 20 is exceeded. For example, because of high fever, high heart rate, high blood pressure, breathing difficulties etc. In a second example, with no limitations, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide an arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball, designed to strengthen an arm and/or a shoulder of a trainee 20. However, the present invention is not limited to that arm-and-shoulder- exercise-ball, and other retrofitted training apparatus 110 are within the scope of the present invention.

Reference is now made back to the drawings. Fig. 7a is a schematic block diagram showing an exemplary retrofitted training apparatus 110, being a first variation of an arm- and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 li, according to some other embodiments of the present invention, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention. Fig. 7b depicts an example prior art training ball 50b, being used. Fig. 7c illustrates an example of arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 li, wherein an example accelerometer sensor 516i is embedded inside the retrofitted training ball 550i. It should be noted that retrofitted training ball 550i may include more than one sensor 516, such as, with no limitations, one or more image sensors and/or pressure sensors.

In this particular training apparatus 50b, ball 50b, being typically an elastic ball such as a sponge ball or plastic ball, is pressing ball 50b against a wall 40 a user 20 with his/her straight arm, while standing strait in an upright position, as shown in Fig. 7b. The training objective is to move ball 50b in a circle having a preselected radius.

In this example, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 li includes a computerize processing device 112 and a display/output unit 113, such as a tablet, and at least one sensor 516i for sensing the activity of user 20, thereby facilitating monitoring and tracking the performance of user 20. Typically, with no limitations, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 li may further include a control unit (not shown). Typically, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted arm-and-shoulder- exercise-ball 511i may further include operating buttons/switches, for example for powering ON and OFF, for volume control, etc.

A rehab training session is led by a selected game 132i that is tailored to realize the targets of a rehab training session carried out with retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise- ball 51 li. A variety of games 132 may be tailored to a target training apparatus, wherein a particular game 132 or a combination of two or more games (132) may be used to cover all the training objectives of arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 li. It should be noted that each game 132 is part of a respective client application 130.

In the example shown in Fig. 7c, game 132i is a prizes-collecting game, wherein the prizes and traps 537 are disposed on a circle 533. In the example shown in Fig. 7c, the position of retrofitted training ball 550 on wall 40 is represented by cloned ball 535i, which is to be kept on circle 533 by user 20. The desired moving direction is control by the appearance of either a prize image (537) on circle 533, proximal to cloned ball 535i, or by the appearance of a trap image (537) on circle 533, to make the user change the direction of the retrofitted training ball 550i on wall 40. Various parameters may be controlled by processing unit 112, for example, the motion tempo, the diameter of circle 533 (the larger the diameter is the harder is the training), repetition, time length, etc.

Fig. 7d shows a variation of is a schematic block diagram showing another example of a retrofitted arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 511j, according to variations of the present invention, with a different game 132j and some other training objectives. It should be noted that arm-and-shoulder-exercise-ball 51 lj may be the same as arm-and-shoulder-exercise- ball 51 li, and it may include a different set of sensors 116j.

In the example shown in Fig. 7e, game 132j is on a darts-like game board 538, dictating circles with different radiuses for circular motions (565) and compass-rose-like shapes 539 for linear motions (563). In the example shown in Fig. 7e, the position of retrofitted training ball 550j on wall 40 is represented by cloned ball 535j, which is to be kept by trainee 20 on a selected circle or on a linear shape 539, by moving retrofitted training ball 550j on wall 40. The desired moving direction is control by audio and/or visual indications, to make the user move retrofitted training ball 550j on wall 40. Various parameters may be controlled by processing unit 112, for example, the motion tempo, the diameter of circle 533 (the larger the diameter is the harder is the training), repetition, time length, etc.

The exercise balls are widely used in rehabilitation institutes some of which are depicted in Figs. 7f through 7n. typically, with no limitations, these exercise balls 550 include at least one pressure sensor 516k, such as diaphragm based sensors.

Figs. 7f depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the knees of a trainee 20, wherein trainee 20 is lying on his/her back, the feet are on the floor and the knees are bent, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550. Figs. 7g depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the knees of trainee 20, wherein trainee 20 is standing with his/her back leaning against a wall, the feet are on the floor and the knees are bent, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

Figs. 7h depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the knees of trainee 20, wherein trainee 20 is siting with his/her feet in the air and the knees are bent, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

Figs. 7i depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the forehead of trainee 20 and a wall, wherein trainee 20 is standing and pressing exercise ball 550 against the wall, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

Figs. 7j depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the back of the head of trainee 20 and a wall, wherein trainee 20 is standing and pressing exercise ball 550 against the wall, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

Figs. 7k depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the inner side of the feet of trainee 20, wherein trainee 20 is lying on his/her back or siting with his/her legs against the floor and the knees are not bent, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

Figs. 71 depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the elbow of trainee 20 and a wall, wherein trainee 20 is standing and pressing exercise ball 550 against the wall, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550. Figs. 7m depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the fist of trainee 20 and a wall, wherein trainee 20 is standing with his arm perpendicular to the wall and pressing exercise ball 550 against the wall, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550. Figs. 7m depicts usage of a push exercise ball 550, wherein push exercise ball 550 is disposed between the back of the fist of trainee 20 and a wall, wherein trainee 20 is standing with his arm parallel to the wall and pressing exercise ball 550 against the wall, and wherein pressure sensor 516k is configured to sense and transmit the pressure applied by the user on push exercise ball 550.

In yet another example, with no limitations, it is an aspect of the present invention to provide a retrofitted active-passive bike trainer. Reference is also made to Fig. 8a is a schematic block diagram showing another example of a retrofitted training apparatus 110, being an active-passive bike trainer 311, according to other embodiments of the present invention, and where not all elements are required to demonstrate an invention. Fig. 8b depicts a portion of the retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311, being used by a user 20. Fig. 8c illustrates another example of a retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311, wherein Fig. 2d depicts an example game coupled to operate with the retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311. It should be noted that sensor 116c may be one or more sensors, for example accelerometers, gyro, rotation counters, pressure sensors, torque sensors, tension sensors, RFID, leap motion sensors, image sensors, magnetic sensor, proximity sensors and/or PIXY cameras, etc.

In this particular training apparatus, the objective is to rotate the bike pedals 352 at a certain speed and direction, and against a particular rotational resistance (difficulty). In this example, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311 includes a processing unit 112 and display/output unit 113, that may be embodied in a single unit, such as a tablet, or separately, and at least one sensor 116c for sensing the activity of a user 20, thereby facilitating monitoring and tracking the performance of user 20. Typically, with no limitations, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311 may further include a control unit 114. Typically, the retrofitting kit of retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311 may further include operating buttons/switches 118, for example for powering ON and OFF, for volume control, etc.

A rehab training session is led by a selected game 132m that is tailored to realize the targets of a rehab training session carried out on retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311, as well as original active-passive bike training apparatus 350. A variety of games 132 may be tailored to a target training apparatus, wherein a particular game 132m or a combination of two or more games 132 may be used to cover all the training objectives of retrofitted active-passive bike trainer 311.

In the example shown in Fig. 8c, game 132m is a prizes-collecting game, wherein the prizes and traps 337 are disposed on the display of processing unit 112 and display/output unit 113. In the example shown in Fig. 8c, the spatial position of a cloned bike 335 set on the screen in correspondence with the performance of user 20, that drives the bike pedals 352. The desired moving direction is control by the appearance of either a prize or a trap image (337) on the display in frontal region of the moving cloned bike 335, thereby anchorage the user to change the spinning speed and/or direction of the bike pedals 352. Various parameters may be controlled by processing unit 112, for example, the spin resistance (difficulty), time length, etc. the retrofitted bike may further include a bike control unit 312 that displays parameters and transmits data to computerized managing unit 114.

It should be noted that the non-retrofitted active-passive bike trainer is not controlled by a training incentive game. For example, screens of game control and training statistics collection are shown in Figs. 8d and 8e. Fig. 8d depicts an exemplary session control screen 360 for a selected game controlling active-passive bike trainer 311. A user 20 may adjust parameters of the game, for example in a setting area 362. When imbalanced legs activity is desired, means for motivating the "weak" leg to work harder may be applied, for example, by using buttons 364. This can be sensed, for example, by installing pressure sensors or torque sensors in each of the pedals 352. Fig. 8f depicts (500) instructions to the trainee 20 to push harder with the, in this example - the right leg. Indications are given, for example, by arrow 520 and a course indication 510 that the bike will take, if correction is not performed by trainee 20.

Fig. 8e depicts a screen 370 showing a statistical summary of a training session using a selected game that controls an active-passive bike trainer 311. In this example, a speed graph 372 as performed by trainee 20 over the session period. In a statistical area 374, statistical data related to the performed training session is shown. It should be noted that preferably, data related to the performed training session is also provided to the therapist, facilitating supervision of the activity of the trainee, in real-time, either by the user or the therapist, locally or remotely, thereby allow the therapist and/or the user to assess the progress of the user.

Fig. 9a illustrates another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is a balance-training flat pad 400, wherein not all elements are required to demonstrate the invention, and wherein the flat pad is shown in a balanced state (400a). Fig. 9b depicts the retrofitted balance-training flat pad shown in Fig. 9a, wherein the flat pad is shown in an imbalanced state (400b). Balance-training flat pad 400 exemplifies a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus that does not use a display to show the game played.

Balance-training flat pad apparatus 400 includes a flat pad 410 that is made of semi- elastic materials. Balance-training flat pad apparatus 400 further includes sensors (not shown) that sense if flat pad 410 is in a balanced state. In one example, there are 4 (four) light indicators 420 (420RI, 420R2, 420LI and 420L ₂ ) proximal to the corners of pad 410. When flat pad 410 is in a balanced state, the light indicators have the same color, for example green, as shown in Fig. 9a. when a trainee 20 stands on flat pad 410, and stays in balance, light indicators 420 keep their green color. However, if trainee 20 stand on flat pad 410, and loses his/her balance, one or more light indicators 420 change their color, for example to red, as shown in Fig. 9b. in the example to red, as shown in Fig. 9b, left indicators (420LI and 420L ₂ ) turns red, indicating that trainee 20 leans to the left. Hence, in the balance-training flat pad apparatus 400 example, the objective of the game 132 played by trainee 20 is to keep all indicators 420 green, for a preset time interval.

It should be noted that this is an example indication scheme only, with no limitations, and any other lighting schemes may be deployed within the scope of the present invention.

Optionally, a line indicator 422 at the center of flat pad 410 also changes color changing from a balanced state to an imbalanced state, and vice versa. Preferably, a time indicator 430, presents and tracks the timing performance of trainee 20.

Fig. 10a illustrates another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the example of the retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is a wall-board apparatus 700a, wherein not all elements are required to demonstrate the invention. Fig. 10b depicts a variation 700b of the wall- board apparatus shown in Fig. 10a, wherein wall-board apparatus 700a is perforated and wall-board apparatus 700b is not perforated. Wall-board apparatus 700 also exemplifies a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus that does not use a display to show the game played. Wall-board apparatus 700 includes a flat board device 750 and a coupled pillow-cover device 710 having a sensor 716 configured to sense the position of sensor 716 with respect to board device 750. Retrofitted wall-board apparatus 700 is configured to train a user to lift his/her arm that is disposed inside pillow-cover device 710, while moving his hand up and down board device 750. Wall-board apparatus 700b includes an example marking 722, guiding trainee 20 as to follow the marking with his/her hand and thereby position sensor 716. Position sensor 716 may be, with no limitations, a magnetic base sensor.

Optionally, the required hand motion pattern is illuminated on board device 750. Optionally, the required hand motion pattern is illuminated on board device 750.

Optionally, a controlled pane display (not shown) for selecting and displaying the required pattern, shape, height, time limits, motion speed, etc.

Fig. 10c illustrates another variation of an example of a retrofitted rehabilitation wall-board apparatus 701, wherein not all elements are required to demonstrate the invention. Wall-board apparatus 701 includes a perforated flat board device 750a and a multiplicity of peg devices 755 that fit to be inserted into the bores 752 of perforated board device 750. The objective of the trainee 20 is to insert peg devices 755 into the bores 752 situated at certain height levels. Each peg device 755 has a couple of sensor 716 configured to sense the position of sensor 716 (and thereby the position of the respective peg 755) with respect to board device 750. Feedback can be visual via an example display 730 and/or an audio feedback.

Fig. 11a illustrates another example of a retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the exemplary retrofitted rehabilitation apparatus is a pressure-bag measuring apparatus 800, wherein not all elements are required to demonstrate the invention. Pressure-bag measuring apparatus 800 may include a pressure holding bag 810, having a pressure sensor 816 embedded therein, and a display 813 (see Fig. 1 lb) displaying a pressure achieved, as a feedback to trainee 20 and/or a trainer. Sensor provide pressure measurements also to processing unit 112, that also track the time table of these pressure measurements.

Pressure holding bag 810 may be used in various positions, somewhat similar to push exercise ball 550. In the example shown in Fig 1 la, a user 20 is lying down on his/her back, wherein pressure holding bag 810 is disposed between the lower back of trainee 20 and the floor. The objective of the trainee is to press on pressure holding bag 810, wherein the pressure achieved and the related time frame are tracked.

The invention being thus described in terms of several embodiments and examples, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art.