Abstract: A lifting apparatus for lifting a user from a sitting position to a semi-upright position. The lifting apparatus is positioned under the seat portion and along the back portion of the chair. The lifting surface extends from a first roller over a second roller and along the front surface of the chair to the base of the lifting apparatus adjacent the front of the chair. A seating area can be provided in the lifting surface to keep the user in position on the lifting surface. To use the lifting apparatus, the first roller is rotated to wrap the lifting surface onto the first roller which moves the lifting surface away from the front surface of the chair and lifts the user away from the chair.

Abstract: A lifting apparatus for lifting a user from a sitting position to a semi-upright position. The lifting apparatus is positioned under the seat portion and along the back portion of the chair. The lifting surface extends from a first roller over a second roller and along the front surface of the chair to the base of the lifting apparatus adjacent the front of the chair. A seating area can be provided in the lifting surface to keep the user in position on the lifting surface. To use the lifting apparatus, the first roller is rotated to wrap the lifting surface onto the first roller which moves the lifting surface away from the front surface of the chair and lifts the user away from the chair.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and device for controlling the use of a computer (60). The invention calls for providing a container (100, 200 or 300) having a locking mechanism (122, 222 or 322) for holding the peripheral device (50) of the computer. The container can completely enclose the device which effectively prevents the use of the peripheral device. Alternatively, the device can merely prevent movement of the peripheral device over a surface such as in the case of a mouse.