Abstract: A toothbrush has a frame, a bristle holder movably mounted to a distal end of the frame, and a power transmission assembly operatively connectable to a drive motor and operatively connected to the bristle holder so as to move bristle tips on the bristle holder along an oval path relative to the frame. In a single cycle of movement along the oval path, the bristles shift away from the frame and towards the teeth, then along and in contact with the teeth in a direction away from the gum line, then back towards the frame and away from the teeth, and subsequently along the frame and out of contact with the teeth.

Abstract: A robotic apparatus that interacts with a user and a personal computer (PC) receives inputs from a user and from the PC and reacts and interacts. The interactive apparatus includes a USB interface with the PC to receive power and data such as key strokes, key combinations, email notifications, and web cam events, for example. The interactive apparatus also includes microphones and a phototransistor to detect sounds and movement. The interactive apparatus includes an eye assembly attached to a body and leg, which is responsive to inputs and interactions with the user and PC.

Abstract: An interactive robotic apparatus that interacts with a user, especially an elderly individual to provide companionship and comfort. The interactive apparatus receives inputs from the user and reacts and interacts. The interactive robotic apparatus includes microphones and a phototransistor to detect sounds and movement. The interactive robotic apparatus also includes a speaker to generate sounds responsive to the interaction with the user and exhibits a breathing animation and heartbeat.

Abstract: In a system for protecting a user from injury sustained during sleep, a sensing device is operated to automatically monitor orientation or posture of a user during sleep of the user. A signal is transmitted from the sensing device to a control unit, which is operated to activate an appliance so that the appliance generates an alert signal upon detection by the sensing device and control unit of an undesirable orientation or posture of the user.

Abstract: In a system for protecting a user from injury sustained during sleep, a sensing device is operated to automatically monitor orientation or posture of a user during sleep of the user. A signal is transmitted from the sensing device to a control unit, which is operated to activate an appliance so that the appliance generates an alert signal upon detection by the sensing device and control unit of an undesirable orientation or posture of the user.

Abstract: An adjustable contour mattress is provided with a multiplicity of zones each having a mattress height independently adjustable by a respective electro-mechanical actuator. The actuators are disposed within the mattress between a lower panel member and an upper mattress layer. A control unit is connected to the actuators for operating them to alternately raise and lower respective zones of the upper mattress layer. A remote control is operatively connected to the control unit and includes command input elements enabling an individual user to selectively operate the actuators independently of other ones of the actuators, whereby the user can adjust heights of the zones independently of one another.