Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology Stabilize your Hand Tremor Claire Norris ABSTRACT Liftware is an adaptive and electronic eating utensil that uses stabilizing technology within its handle to provide counteractive movements to stabilize the utensil while eating. Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Executive Summary
Liftware is an adaptive and electronic eating utensil that uses stabilizing
technology within its handle to provide counteractive movements to stabilize the
utensil while eating. This white paper aims to provide helpful information about
Liftware to people living with Parkinson’s disease or Essential Tremors.
Parkinson’s disease and Essential Tremors (ET) impact people’s lives in several
ways. The two neurological disorders affect brain activity and are characterized
by small, involuntary tremors of the body [1].
These uncontrolled muscle tremors appear when the person is performing
directed motion [2]. The shaking generally involves small, rapid movements of
the hands; around five to seven shakes per second.
Because of the constant tremors, people living with Parkinson’s and ET have
difficulty performing everyday tasks. The sporadic tremors can make mealtime
very challenging and frustrating because of constant spills and food being thrown
from the utensil.
There are a couple of options to combat the tremors while eating. These options
include:
•
•
Hiring a caregiver to help assist with eating, or,
Using ergonomic, adaptive eating utensils [3]
Neither of the options listed above deal with working with the tremor.
Instead of ignoring the constant tremors, Liftware’s software detects and
responds to tremor motion through the activation of motors that counteract the
load-bearing end of the utensil. The adaptive utensil sends the counterbalancing
movements along up-down and left-right axes [4].
Liftware costs $295 to purchase [5]. While it is expensive, Liftware is a personal
and functional investment in the lives of people with Parkinson’s and ET. If used
for every meal, Liftware works out to be 27¢ per meal in the first year.
Ultimately, Liftware is an ideal solution for people with Parkinson’s or ET. The
stabilizing utensil will provide independent eating to people living with the
involuntary tremors.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Table of Contents Glossary............................................................................................................iii Introduction ......................................................................................................1 Living with Parkinson’s and ET ...........................................................................2 Patient Challenges ..................................................................................................................................................... 2 Treatments and Alternatives for Tremors...................................................................................................... 2 What is Liftware?...............................................................................................4 What is Liftware? ....................................................................................................................................................... 4 What does it look like?............................................................................................................................................. 4 How does it work?..................................................................................................................................................... 4 Why was Liftware Created?................................................................................................................................... 5 How much does Liftware Cost? ........................................................................................................................... 5 Alternatives to Liftware .......................................................................................................................................... 5 Features and Benefits of Liftware ......................................................................7 Features ......................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Benefits........................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Cost................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Conclusion……………………………………………………………………………………………………….8 Appendix A: Testimonials ..................................................................................9 Appendix B: References ...................................................................................10 ii
Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Glossary
Accelerometer:
An Accelerometer is an electronic device that is used to measure the
acceleration of movement. When used with Liftware, the accelerometer
measures the vibration of a person’s tremor.
Active Cancellation of Tremor (ACT):
Active Cancellation of Tremor is a proprietary algorithm created by Liftware that
sends counterbalancing motions to offset a person’s tremor.
Essential Tremor:
An Essential Tremor is a neurological disorder that produces uncontrollable
shaking and tremors of body parts.
Liftware:
Liftware is an electronic eating utensil that uses ACT technology to
counterbalance the user’s tremors, and allows users to eat food without
experiencing severe tremors.
Microcontroller:
A Microcontroller is a compact computer that includes a single integrated circuit
with a processor that is used to control a mechanical device.
Parkinson’s Disease:
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurological disorder that produces
tremors, muscle rigidity, and slow imprecise movements.
Stabilizing Technology:
Stabilizing Technology is scientifically designed electronic equipment that uses
active tremor cancellation to create stability.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Introduction
Purpose:
The purpose of this white paper is to provide information about Liftware
technology to people with Parkinson’s or Essential Tremors (ET) and to their
caregivers and therapists.
Context:
People who have Parkinson’s disease or ET suffer from involuntary muscle
spasms and tremors of their appendages. Involuntary tremors and movements
make it difficult for those affected to perform everyday tasks, such as eating.
People living with Parkinson’s and ET have a limited number of choices for
assistive eating. There are currently two options for assistance:
•
•
A Caregiver or Personal Support Worker (PSW) to help people with severe
tremors, and
Adaptive cutlery that features a wide, weighted handle
Neither option solves the problem or removes the tremors; however, Liftware
offers users a simple and effective solution.
Liftware, an adaptive, tremor cancelling, eating utensil uses stabilizing features to
keep the utensil steady during meal time. The device comes with the stabilizing
handle, as well as with detachable utensils (with the option for a soup spoon,
fork, or everyday spoon) [5]. With Liftware, people with Parkinson’s and ET can
easily eat without frustration.
Organization:
The whitepaper will be divided into four sections. These sections include:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Living with Parkinson’s & ET
A Technical Overview: What is Liftware?
Features and Benefits of Liftware
Conclusion
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Living with Parkinson’s and ET
This section is divided into two sections: [1] Patient Challenges, and [2]
Treatments and Alternatives for Tremors.
Patient Challenges
People living with Parkinson’s and ET have difficulty with simple, everyday
activities. Because of the constant and unexpected tremors caused by these
neurological disorders, everyday tasks can be frustrating and problematic [6 & 7].
Mealtime is a difficult activity for someone who experiences involuntary tremors.
Typical utensils have a small handle surface, and, for people with Parkinson’s
and ET, the handle is too small to grasp. Consequently, attempting to eat with
normal utensils can be extremely difficult.
When people with Parkinson’s disease eat and use a normal utensil, their
tremors, caused by the neurological disorder, result in constant spills and food
thrown from their utensil. This problem can create a frustrating mealtime
experience and a loss of dignity for people with tremors. Also, those living with
involuntary tremors may become embarrassed by them and may isolate
themselves socially so they do not have to eat in public.
Treatments and Alternatives for Tremors
There is currently no cure for Parkinson’s and ET. The options available for
people with the disorders are a series of medications [1].
These can include:
•
•
Propranolol (a beta blocker)
Primidone (a drug used to treat seizures)
While these medications attempt to lessen the involuntary tremors, they do not
cure the disorder. These drugs are known to have negative side effects like
fatigue, drowsiness, lack of concentration and difficulty walking [1].
In severe cases of Parkinson’s and ET, the individual can choose to undergo
invasive brain surgery. However, this surgery is dangerous and attempts to
destroy the parts of the brain that cause the tremors.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 On the other hand, Liftware is a non-invasive, alternative option for people
needing assistance with eating. It is an adaptive eating utensil that can be used
in conjunction with any of the drugs listed earlier.
Instead of trying to remove the tremor, Liftware uses stabilizing technology to
work with the tremor. The stabilizing utensil offers individuals an independent tool
to use during mealtime.
Not only does Liftware help food stay on the utensil, it also allows users to eat
independently and enjoy food without the help of a caregiver.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 What is Liftware?
This section is divided into: [1] What is Liftware, [2] What Does it Look Like, [3]
How Does it Work, [4] Why was Liftware Created, [5] How Much Does Liftware
Cost, and [6] Alternatives to Liftware.
What is Liftware?
Liftware is an electronic, adaptive eating utensil that has stabilizing features
located within its handle. This stabilizing utensil allows people with mobility
problems such as Parkinson’s disease or Essential Tremors (ET) to eat
independently without the help of a caregiver.
What Does it Look Like?
Liftware consists of two main parts (refer to Figure 1): the detachable utensil (1)
and its base, the handle (2).
1. Liftware offers three utensil attachments: a fork, a soup spoon, and an
everyday spoon.
2. Liftware’s handle consists of a form of tremor cancellation technology,
called Active Cancellation (ACT), as well as a rechargeable battery [5].
Figure 1: Liftware [2]
How Does it Work?
Liftware’s stabilizing technology is made up of several different sensors and
controllers that ultimately create ACT technology.
Liftware consists of small sensors (operated by accelerometers) that measure the
user’s tremor. The user’s tremor is measured by the sensor, and the sensor data
is interpreted by a microcontroller within the handle. The microcontroller sends
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 the data, and the attachment is moved in the opposite direction of the tremor by
small motors with counterbalancing force. Cancelling tremors are sent both
horizontally and vertically through motors within the handle.
Because of Liftware’s ability to counterbalance tremors, its ACT technology
creates an adaptive stabilizing utensil for people with Parkinson’s or ET [10].
Why was Liftware Created?
Liftware was created by a group of scientists and engineers looking to provide
proactive care through an adaptive, eating utensil to people experiencing
Parkinson and ET. Since this group wanted to help family members and friends
deal with this neurological disorder, they created Liftware as a tool to improve the
overall quality of life and create independence.
Liftware uses tremor stabilization technology based on the research of Anupam
Pathak, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Lynx Design [8].
Liftlabs, the company that created Liftware, was recently purchased by Google X.
Google X is a research department attempting to make major technological
advancements. Google X states: “[Liftware’s] tremor-canceling device could
improve quality of life for millions of people” [9].
With the collaboration of Liftlabs and Google X, the technological and research
company plans to make continual strides in design and innovation for those
experiencing tremors resulting from neurological disorders.
How Much Does Liftware Cost?
Liftware costs $295 for the stabilizing handle and one attachment utensil. While it
seems like an expensive product, if one were to use Liftware for every meal, the
adaptive utensil would average 27¢ per meal in the first year [5].
The Liftware utensil is an investment in the lives of people living with Parkinson’s
and ET. The utensil will allow these people to eat independently again.
Alternatives to Liftware
Currently, there is no comparable adaptive utensil like Liftware. There are,
however, other options for people with Parkinson’s and ET.
First, there are adaptive utensils that have ergonomic, weighted handles that are
meant to help eating. These utensils can cost anywhere from $5- $100 [3].
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Unfortunately, these adaptive eating utensils do not help the user work with their
tremors. Eating can still be difficult with these weighted eating utensils.
The other alternative to Liftware would be to hire a caregiver or PSW for
assistance while eating. This option would cost between $15- $20 per hour [12].
Hired assistive workers would eliminate the problem of the user’s tremor while
eating; however, it also eliminates independent eating.
Ultimately, the alternatives to Liftware can be costly and not work as effectively
as the Liftware stabilizer. Liftware will allow people with Parkinson’s and ET to
independently eat and enjoy mealtime.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Features and Benefits of Liftware
This section is divided into: [1] Features, [2] Benefits, and [3] Cost.
Features
Liftware’s assistive technology will improve the lives of people suffering from
Parkinson’s and ET. The stabilizing technology within the utensil uses ACT
technology to cancel up to 70% of a user’s tremor.
Unlike other utensils on the market that only provide ergonomic fit, Liftware offers
users a wide handle to grasp, along with the ACT technology to help offset the
user’s tremor.
Liftware offers users multiple features that will benefit their lifestyles [11]. When
purchasing Liftware, the product features:
•
•
•
•
ACT stabilizing technology
Rechargeable stabilizer with charging base
Storage case and travel bag
Detachable (dishwasher-friendly) utensils
Benefits
Liftware’s ACT technology will benefit people living with Parkinson’s and ET for
several reasons. These include:
•
•
•
•
•
Fewer spills, and, therefore, more food left to consume
Less time spent worrying about how to eat, and more time spent
socializing with others during a meal
Less embarrassment experienced when eating in public
Stable, tremor-reduced eating
Independent eating
Ultimately, Liftware allows users to enjoy independent eating again.
Cost
Liftware costs $295.00 (American) to purchase [2]. This price includes the
stabilizing base and the soup spoon attachment. While it seems like an
expensive product, if used everyday, Liftware averages out to be 27¢ per meal
in the first year. Liftware is a tremendous investment in self-respect,
independence, and stress-free eating for people living with Parkinson’s and ET.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Conclusion
People living with Parkinson’s and Essential Tremors find performing everyday
tasks difficult. Eating is one daily activity that can be frustrating because of the
disease’s constant and involuntary tremors.
While adaptive utensils with ergonomic grip and wider handles are currently sold
as an alternative to a caregiver, none of these solutions attempt to solve the
problem of the tremor.
Liftware, on the other hand, offers users an adaptive eating utensil that uses
stabilizing technology that sends ACT to counteract the user’s tremor. It provides
users with an independent solution for mealtime. Instead of fighting the tremor,
Liftware adapts to it and works with the user’s tremor to allow them to eat
independently.
While the initial purchase of the product may seem expensive, Liftware is a
significant personal as well as functional investment for people living with
Parkinson’s and ET. Liftware costs $295.00 for the stabilizing handle and one
attachable utensil [2]. However, daily use amortizes this cost to only 27¢ per
meal in the first year.
Liftware helps to alleviate the costs of Personal Support Workers and caregivers
who, otherwise, would help feed people who have Parkinson’s or ET.
Liftware will transform the everyday lives of people suffering from Parkinson’s
and ET. Meals will be more enjoyable and less embarrassing. Ultimately, Liftware
will give independent eating back to people living with involuntary tremors.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Appendix A: Testimonials
“I ate a bowl of cereal this morning for the first time in years! Mornings are always
the worst for me, until my meds kick in, so I'd given up trying to fight with
breakfast cereal - Donna and I sat and ate together and giggled about the little
robot in my hand. Thank you for such a wonderful gift to the ET community”
[5].
Eric H.
“I had Chinese food yesterday and as usual with a regular spoon, it went all over
unless I used two hands to hold it. Today I brought the spoon to work and am
now eating my leftovers with one hand and not one piece falling all over the
place. This is absolutely incredible” [5].
Kelly K.
“It's simple to use and is surprisingly comfortable in the hand. I thought it might
be awkward, but it isn't at all. I'm thoroughly enjoying my spoon! I received my
Liftware Spoon on Monday and have used it everyday since. I must admit I was
skeptical about it, but was immediately impressed on first use! It actually does
help significantly!! I now find excuses to use it!” [5].
Bev M.
“My grandmother is doing great at 99 and is using her spoon everyday! You
have a wonderful product, keep up the great work. Feel free to tell people that
you have a 99 year-old that is using your spoon” [5].
Leslie M.
“To The Best Team Ever: I used your precious spoon to eat some scrambled
eggs and guess what? The eggs were still on the spoon when it reached my
mouth!! For the first time in years I was able to eat a meal with one hand
and not feel embarrassed when food would fall off the spoon and land
everywhere. You have helped so many people; it has been a real challenge to
figure out ways to eat without making a mess. I can't thank you enough for what
you have done for me. God Bless you all” [5].
Wendy S.
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Liftware: Tremor Cancellation Technology December 2, 2014 Appendix B: References
[1] (2014) “Treatment Options.” [Online]. Available:
http://www.liftlabsdesign.com/treatment.html
[2] (5 October 2013) “Liftlabs.”[Online] Available: http://www.liftlabsdesign.com/
[3] Nancy Ryerson. (10 July 2014). “Community Recommendations: Assistance Products for
Parkinson’s Disease.” [Online] Available: https://www.michaeljfox.org/foundation/newsdetail.php?assistance-products-for-parkinson-disease-communityrecommendations&utm_source=social&utm_medium=facebook&utm_content=foundationne
ws&utm_campaign=assistance-products&s_src=assistance-products&s_subsrc=facebook
[4] “Liftware.” [Online]. Available: http://www.essentialtremor.org/treatments/assistivedevices/liftware/
[5] (2013) “Liftware.” [Online] Available: https://www.liftlabsdesign.com/index.html#lifestyle
[6] (2014) What is Parkinson’s? [Online] Available:
http://www.parkinson.ca/site/c.kgLNIWODKpF/b.5183997/k.C9D0/About_Us.htm
[7] (2014) “What is Essential Tremor?” [Online]. Available:
http://www.liftlabsdesign.com/essential-tremor.html
[8] Pathak, A., Redmond, J. A., Allen, M. and Chou, K. L. (2014), “A noninvasive handheld
assistive device to accommodate essential tremor: A pilot study.” Mov. Disord., 29: 838–842.
Available:
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/mds.25796/full
[9] Teresa Elias. (17 September 2014) “While Apple Announced the Iphone, Google Bought
a Spoon.” [Online] Available: http://www.zagg.com/community/blog/while-apple-announcedthe-iphone-google-bought-a-spoon/
[10] Sunshine Mugrab. (19 March 2014) “Liftware Creator Anupam Pathak Featured Speaker
at American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting.” [Online]. Available:
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/3/prweb10533126.htm
[11] (22 January 2014). “Stabilizing the Dining Experience for People with Parkinson’s with
Liftware.” [Online]. Available: http://notjustprettycolours.com/blog/2014/1/22/stabilising-thedining-experience-for-people-with-parkinsons-with-liftware#.VHDaUVfF9v
[12] (2014). “Personal Support Worker Salary in Ontario.” [Online]. Available:
http://personalsupportworkerhq.com/psw-salary
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