Abstract: A polyurethane foam mattress overlay has several sections defined in a relatively flat support surface thereof. The sections are longitudinally disposed so as to correspond with different parts of a user's body. Each such section has predetermined support characteristics which are selected in relationship with such characteristics for the other sections so as to define systematized support. Specific numerical ranges and interrelationships for such sections are disclosed. A plurality of projections are formed in each surface section. In general, the cross-sectional area of such projections at the overlay support surface or at a given depth therefrom is the same within each section, but differs from one section to another. Separation distances between such projections may also vary with the respective sections. In such manner, tailored support characteristics in respective sections provide engineered support for all parts of a user's body.

Abstract: A foam pillow has two main support surfaces on opposing sides thereof. One surface includes convolutions defining a relatively flat profile and the other surface includes longitudinal ribs of arcuate cross-section, which define a curved profile having at least two prominent lobes of differing heights and a central trough. The pillow is particularly adapted for support of a person's head in the trough, with the user's neck received on one of the lobes. Reversal of the lobes permits variation in the amount of neck support. The ribs comprise spherical ridges and have circular channels separating their bases to provide a heat and moisture dissipation function. The curved support surface may include cross-hatching at various intervals to provide extra dispersion of pressure.

Abstract: There is provided a phantom for measuring a performance parameter of a nuclear magnetic resonance scanner capable of acquiring NMR data from a study object. The phantom is made up of a housing composed of a substantially non-NMR-active material, and positionable in use within a radio-frequency coil forming part of an NMR scanner. The phantom further includes a first medium disposed within the housing to load the radio frequency coil in a manner similar to that of a patient. The NMR properties of the medium are further selected such that an NMR signal, if any, produced by the medium occurs at a time other than when a performance parameter of said NMR scanner is measured. In the preferred embodiment, the phantom comprises two concentrically disposed cylinders of different diameters and a pair of end plates fastened to opposite ends of the cylinders. The first medium is disposed within the volume defined between the side walls of the cylinders and the end plates.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed which provide signals corresponding to physiological motion of an imaging slice in an MR system for use in synchronizing acquisition of MR data with movement of the slice. The signals are generated by initiating an incident signal of a frequency .omega. which interacts with the imaging slice and returns a reflected signal of a frequency .omega.. By mixing the incident and reflected signal, a baseband signal is generated which is indicative of changes in the phase and magnitude relationships between the signals. Because changes in the phase and magnitude relationships between the signals are related in an approximately linear manner to movement of the imaging slice, the baseband signal provides an indication of movement of the imaging slice of sufficient quality to serve as an accurate triggering signal to synchronize acquistion of MR data with movement of the imaging slice.

Abstract: A shoulder abduction splint constructed from a unitary block of synthetic foam material is illustrated providing in a single disposable support a splint for selectively positioning the arm in a substantially 90 degree position with respect to the body or an intermediate position with respect to the body as dictated by the results of surgery on the shoulder.