Abstract: A conformable pod and related method of production are provided, wherein the pod defines a soft structure adapted for deformation in response to minimal pressure applied manually, i.e., by contact with some portion of the body, and for retaining a deformed configuration substantially in the absence of continued application of manual pressure. The pod includes a viscous and tacky gel material encased within a closed chamber defined at least in part by a relatively thin and easily deformed outer skin providing minimal deformation resistance. In a preferred form, the encased gel material is a coagulated or partially coagulated gel such as a silicone-based gel material adapted for deformation in response to minimal applied manual pressure, and for substantially pressureless retention of the as-deformed shape, followed by relatively slow return (at least two seconds or more) to an initial nondeformed shape upon manual release of the pod.

Abstract: A dental tool includes a deformable grip for resiliently conforming to individualized anatomical contours and preferences, thereby providing enhanced user comfort with reduced fatigue. The deformable grip includes a resilient outer sleeve carried on a tool body in a position for fingertip grasping during normal use. The outer sleeve encloses an annular cavity filled at least partially with a deformable or flowable material adapted to undergo substantial localized deformation in response to fingertip pressure for custom fit conformance with the shape of the user's fingertips. In one preferred form, the dental tool is a double-ended instrument carrying a pair of tool components at the opposite ends of the tool body, with a pair of the deformable grips on the tool body proximate said opposite ends for respective fingertip grasping and appropriate custom fit deformation upon respective use of the tool components in the course of performing a dental procedure.

Abstract: A computer mouse of improved ergonomic shape includes a resilient deformable cushion for supporting a user's hand and wrist, and shaped to minimize or eliminate neurological or repetitive motion disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The cushion contains a flowable material such as a gel for compliant deformation in response to manual pressure, and a selected recovery time returning substantially to an initial nondeformed shape upon release of manual pressure. The cushion defines an upwardly exposed contoured surface extending over a tail region of the mouse to include a laterally spaced pair of raised landings for supporting the raised medial and lateral pads of the heel portion of the user's hand respectively overlying the trapezium and pisiform bones, in combination with an intervening recessed notch whereby the central carpal tunnel zone of the user's hand and wrist is comfortably suspended above the cushion in spaced relation therewith.