Abstract: An ultrasound system for imaging an object using data received from an ultrasound transducer employs a first touch screen configured to display ultrasound images and to receive control inputs relating to the images. A second touch screen is configured as a user input device. A processor is coupled to the ultrasound transducer so as to receive data therefrom. The processor is also coupled to the first touch screen and to the second touch screen. The processor is configured to generate ultrasound images based on the data received from the ultrasound transducer. The processor is also configured to cause the first touch screen to display the ultrasound images. The processor is also configured to receive control input data from the first touch screen and the second touch screen.

Abstract: A mechanism for mapping an anatomical characteristic of a patient includes a treatment bed having a top surface. A fiber Bragg grating channel is disposed along at least a portion of the treatment bed near the top surface and includes a fiber optic waveguide defining a plurality of spaced-apart Bragg-type gratings. A multi-wavelength light source generates a beam that is in optical communication with the fiber Bragg grating channel. A detector, in optical communication with the fiber Bragg grating channel, detects reflections of light from at least one of the Bragg-type gratings. A computer is programmed to calculate at least one anatomical characteristic based on a characteristic of at least one of the reflection of light.

Abstract: A cervical traction device includes a base, a cervical force application member, and a motor operably attached to the cervical force application member. The motor preferably drives the cervical application member through a friction drive system in order to provide a force to a person's cervical vertebrae. The friction drive system provides overload protection to prevent application of excessive traction forces to the patient.