Abstract: A flexing head support suspension system for supporting the head, neck, and, face of a subject while the subject receives a treatment. The suspension system comprises a pressure sensitive apparatus for supporting the head, neck, and face. The apparatus includes a face plate and a suspension support unit. The suspension mechanism in the support unit maintains a neutral placement of the head in relation to the body while the subject is undergoing treatment. The apparatus alleviates discomfort and pain that often comes as a result of the pressure on the body during treatment of various somatic modalities. The apparatus may be a stand alone unit or attachable to both standard and non-standard massage tables.

Abstract: A printed telephone number in either numerical (OCR-readable) or standard bar code format can be dialed rapidly and accurately by scanning the number with a hand-held optical sensor or wand. The OCR or bar code wand output is connected to an automatic dialing apparatus that includes a processor, signal generator, and interface circuit. The processor decodes the wand output and translates the call number digits into digital control signals. The control signals drive a signal generator that outputs the call number address digits in the form of tone bursts, typically DTMF tones. The signal generator output is coupled either electrically or accoustically to the microphone input of a telephone set speech circuit. The telephone set then transmits the tone signals over the telephone line. No modification of the telephone set is required since the automatic dialing apparatus, including the hand-held wand, interfaces with the telephone set using either existing modular connectors or acoustic coupling.