Vibrant Cushion Patents (Class 601/56)
  • Patent number: 11951888
    Abstract: A vehicle seat includes a seat cushion S1 and a seat back S2. The seat back S2 includes a seat back frame F2 constituting a framework thereof, a pressure-receiving member 30 located in the seat back frame F2 and designed to support an upper body of an occupant, elastically supporting members 26, 27 elastically supporting the pressure-receiving member 30 in the seat back frame F2, and a cover material covering the seat back frame F2 and the pressure-receiving member 30. The seat back is configured such that when a backward movement load is applied from the upper body of the occupant seated on the seat cushion S1 to the seat back S2, the pressure-receiving member 30 moves backward to allow the upper body of the occupant to sink into the seat back S2. A vibrating unit 50 is attached to the pressure-receiving member 30.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2024
    Assignee: TS TECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toyokazu Nakano, Haruki Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 10724549
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a massage chair having a massage chair frame, a massage system, and a noise-reducing, enclosure device. The massage chair frame includes a first end, a second end, a seat body area portion, and a back body area portion. The massage system includes at least one fluid massage element, a fluid pump, and at least one fluid valve device for regulating fluid flow into and out of the at least one fluid massage element. The noise-reducing, enclosure device includes an enclosure housing and noise-reducing material positioned inside the enclosure housing. The enclosure housing encloses the fluid pump and the plurality of fluid valve devices during operation such that noise generated from or made by the fluid pump and the plurality of fluid valve devices during operation is reduced, contained or eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Luraco, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Le, Thanh Le, Varad Nitin Gokhale
  • Patent number: 10441713
    Abstract: An injection system for the independent administration of imaging-guided injections utilizing the hand-on-needle technique including a pressure-sensitive pump and a switch assembly is provided. The switch assembly is adjustably mounted to a probe with a releasable mount, and includes a displaceable lever that can be displaced from a neutral position to a first position to initiate an aspiration event at the needle and from a neutral position to a second position to initiate an injection event at the needle. The displaceable lever and the pressure-sensitive pump are in electronic communication with a control module, which includes programmable logic executed by a processor to send and receive electronic communication(s) from the pump and switch, including when to continue and/or terminate aspiration and injection events at the needle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: Anestech, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Feldman, Ilya Rozin
  • Patent number: 10334961
    Abstract: A portable device for controlling an external electrical adjustable apparatus is provided. The portable device has a case, a signal transmitter connected to the electrical adjustable apparatus, a tilt sensor sensing a tilted angle and a controlling operation, a memory storing a threshold angle and a processor. The processor generates a controlling signal according to the controlling operation, and transmitting the controlling signal to an electrical adjustable apparatus for making the electrical adjustable apparatus raise/lower. The processor further determines that the electrical adjustable apparatus has collision when receiving a controlling signal used to control the electrical adjustable apparatus and the tilted angle is not less than the threshold angle, and sends a stopping signal to the electrical adjustable apparatus via the signal transmitter for making the electrical adjustable apparatus stop raising/lowering when determining that the electrical adjustable apparatus has collision.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: TIMOTION TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Dong-Jye Lin, Chung-Yi Chen, Chang-Lin Tu, Chi-Hung Chan
  • Patent number: 9392881
    Abstract: Systems and apparatus relating to providing one or more combinations of motion, vibration, and sound to comfort babies or infants, particularly babies or infants who are crying, experiencing discomfort, or having sleeping difficulties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventor: James Joseph Schmelzle
  • Patent number: 9352144
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system configured to stimulate a vestibular system of a user while the user is in a sleeping position. The system comprises a housing; a power supply; an electrode assembly; a controller that controls stimulation of the vestibular system through delivery of energy from the power supply to the electrode assembly; an input element configured to control operation of the system; an auditory output device that provides auditory output to the user, wherein the auditory output is synchronized with the stimulation of the vestibular system to enhance an effect of the stimulation; a mounting assembly for mounting the housing on the user; and a sensor adapted to generate an output signal related to a physiological parameter of the user, wherein the controller controls the electrode assembly to cease delivery of the energy responsive to the output signal indicating that the user is leaving the sleeping position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Assignee: RIC INVESTMENTS, LLC
    Inventors: Zachary D. Paul, Stefanie Lattner, Benjamin A. Giovannelli, Michael E. Colbaugh, Todd Kirby, Kevin Wells, William H. Broadley, Al Vangura, Michael Cessna
  • Publication number: 20150126819
    Abstract: Inventive embodiments include a system for preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in an infant, by the application of Stochastic Resonance neurological stimuli. The system includes a crib mattress and copper noise grids, wherein the copper noise grids are embedded in the crib mattress. The system also includes a mechanism for generating time controlled white noise and time controlled cyclic signals, combined with a multitude of varying frequencies and harmonics, wherein the mechanism is adjustable for measured local (near crib) white noise power density levels, the mechanism further adjustable for diurnal and seasonal white noise power density level changes. The system also includes circuitry effective for producing positive and negative adjustable DC voltage levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Adan R. Cervantes
  • Patent number: 8926535
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an adjustable bed handheld remote control that may include a handheld housing, a touch sensor on a front face of the handheld housing, a transmitter and the like. The touch sensor may be presented in a slider form and may be adapted to facilitate a user in adjusting a frame position of an adjustable bed. The transmitter may be electrically coupled to a processor and may receive input from the touch sensor, for communication control signals to the adjustable bed in accordance with the input received from the touch sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 8632478
    Abstract: A pillow with simulated respiration includes a pair of impervious panels that are joined together to form a rectangular shaped enclosed body and a mechanism for inflating/deflating the body periodically to simulate an individual's breathing. The pillow may also include a cushion on top of the body with an electric heating pad on top of the cushion together with a pair of vibrators. The vibrators each have an elongated shape and are constructed and dimensioned to message an individual's neck and upper shoulders when the individual's head is placed on the cushion. The pillow also includes a textile cover with a zipper on one side thereof and a satin pillow case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Inventor: Solaiman B. Alkhattaf
  • Publication number: 20140018712
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a vibrating massage table (1) comprising at least a foot support (3) on which rests a plate (2) tilting around a central axis (4) and allowing a slope of a patient lying on the aforementioned table (1) so that the feet of the patient are placed on a level higher than his head, the aforementioned plate (2) comprising at least one engine means propagating vibrations and at least one means of restraint (11 a, 11 b) of the patient. The plate (2) of this vibrating massage table (1) has the particularity to be longitudinally divided into several cross cushions (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10) each adapted to a part of the body; in addition, one of these cushions (10) is adapted to the ankles and the feet of the patient, said cushion (10) being activated in vibration by at least one engine means, said vibrations being propagated from ankles and feet to the whole body of the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Antoine BOUCHET, Nicolas PAGEOT
  • Patent number: 8617089
    Abstract: Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures include beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: So Sound Solutions LLC
    Inventors: Richard Barry Oser, Suzannah Long
  • Patent number: 8500663
    Abstract: The present invention is a vibrational roller utilizing a motorized vibrational drive using a plurality of eccentric weights and associated supports. The weights are positioned along the axis of rotation in a manner to synchronize them and minimize vibrational dissipation throughout the roller. Each weight has at least one associated support. The supports then transmit vibrational forces to the surface of the roller in an evenly distributed manner. A second co-operational motor may be used to extend motor life and aid in initiating vibrations. A control panel and associated circuitry are utilized to alter vibrational characteristics. The roller may be battery powered or powered through a standard wall outlet. The roller itself is manufactured of a durable yet deformable material, such as foam rubber, and may be inserted into selectable sleeves of varying physical properties for desired effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Health e Company
    Inventors: Brian P. Godfrey, Vince Warner
  • Patent number: 8398571
    Abstract: A cover (150) for a vibratory pad (10) comprises a pocket or pouch (158) faced with dressing fabric material and sized to accommodate a vibration pad, a closure (154e) to retain the cover on the pad, in use, and a strap (146,148) integral with the cover suitable for connecting the cover (and a pad retained therein) to the limb (29) of a patient. The strap has an (adhesive) connector (176) that is capable of being secured so as to pressure the pad against the limb and so that, once made, the connection cannot be unmade without disabling the connector against making subsequent connections. Thus the cover can only be used once. A system (12?150?) includes the vibration device and comprises means to disable the device after a cover has been employed for a period of time or number of treatments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Inventor: Philip James Ellin
  • Patent number: 8273038
    Abstract: In combination, vertically percussive vibration and non-symmetrical forces are applied to a patient. The non-symmetrical forces may be generated by a variety of unevenly applied weights that are supported at appropriate body locations in a manner that upsets normal body load symmetry. The non-symmetrical forces in combination with vertically percussive vibrations induce neuromusculoskeletal proprioceptive re-education and development within a living body to correct musculo-skeletal disorders including but not limited to scoliosis. A special posture modifying chair and head-orienting glasses may be used instead of or in addition to unevenly applied weights. An additional force concentrating treatment apparatus is also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Inventors: Dennis A. Woggon, A. Joshua Woggon, John D. Carlson, Donald D. Winkels
  • Patent number: 8257285
    Abstract: A traction bed having a planar table on which a patient may lie with the head disposed at one end and the feet disposed at the other end. A vibration platform is disposed on the planar table for imparting vibration motion to the patient. A pelvic belt is fitted on the patient and a first strap is connected to one side of the pelvic belt and a second strap is connected to the second side of the pelvic belt. Apparatus is included for selectively applying a tension force to the first and second straps in a direction toward the foot end of the table. Further, a chest harness is fitted on the patient and includes a pair of shoulder straps extending toward the head end of the table. Apparatus is provided for selectively applying a tension force to both shoulder straps toward the head end of the table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Inventor: Gerry Cook
  • Patent number: 8038632
    Abstract: The present invention is a vibratory patient support system. The support system has at least one bladder, at least one vibrational device, and first and second control units that respectively control (a) the inflation and deflation of the at least one bladder and (b) vibrational device. The at least one bladder (i) inflates when receiving a fluid at a faster rate than the fluid exiting the bladder; (ii) deflates when the fluid leaves the bladder at a faster rate than the fluid entering the bladder, and (iii) has a top surface that allows a user to apply pressure thereon and a bottom surface. The vibrational device (a) is positioned (i) under the bottom surface of the bladder, or (ii) within the bladder and below the top surface of the at least one bladder so it does not contact the top surface; and (b) generates a vibrational force. The first control unit can adjust the inflation of the at least one bladder. The second control unit can adjust the vibration forces generated from the vibration device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Raymond P. Paolini, Jeffery Joseph Thompson
  • Patent number: 8021313
    Abstract: An air-tight foam-filled bladder is used for varying massage intensity in a massage chair, massage mat, or other massage device. The bladder may be compressed from a default or relaxed thickness by evacuating air from the bladder. The thickness of the foam-filled bladder may be reduced to a collapsed thickness in which the foam is compressed within the bladder. In use, the foam-filled bladder is placed proximate a conventional fixed massage mechanism in a massage device, such as in the back rest of a massage chair. By controlling the amount of air evacuated from the bladder, the intensity of the massage is controlled by varying the amount of pressure exerted by the fixed massage mechanism on the user. In the case of a massage chair, the user may advantageously sit back in the chair without discomfort when the user does not want a massage, and may control the intensity of the massage provided by the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Human Touch, LLC
    Inventor: Hans Dehli
  • Patent number: 7981064
    Abstract: Transducers and resonators are embedded in body support structures in contact with a user to for the purpose of conveying musical sound energy to a user's body at selected frequencies and in selected patterns. Body support structures comprise beds, pillows, chairs, and other structures typically used to support people. The sound may be audio tones and/or music. The transducers and resonators may be incorporated into a foam component or in a coil spring component of the body support structure. Latex-type foams and beds made with springs are candidate body support structures for receiving transducer's and resonators. Electro-active polymers are also used as transducers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: So Sound Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Barry Oser, Suzannah Long
  • Patent number: 7854709
    Abstract: A muscle stimulation and massage apparatus is provided that includes (a) a foot plate which is provided with rollers or skids, (b) a column arranged perpendicularly on the foot plate, and (c) a vibration unit that is arranged on a lift, wherein the lift may travel on guide rails of the column and is fastened in a lockable manner at different heights, with the vibration unit being located on a side outside the region of the column. In one embodiment, the lift may continuously travel up and down over a predetermined height range for a period of time in a programmed manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: Josef Neff
  • Publication number: 20100236560
    Abstract: A device avoiding the use of any motor or perpendicular or rectangular elements, having a convex asymmetrical longitudinal curve, a central longitudinal groove, and mirrored perpendicular and latitudinal, symmetrically-matched convex curves extending from the central groove to the sides, and optimally surfaced with a soft dense foam, uses gravitational force on the body of a user to provide an effective, yet gentle stretch along the length and across the width of the back, particularly at the thoracic vertebrae thereby relieving postural mechanical shoulder, back or spine pain. Additional alternative embodiments using a heating, cooling, or vibrational element along the central longitudinal groove are also described and claimed herein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventors: John Rambo, Vicent Chang
  • Publication number: 20100130808
    Abstract: To improve various symptoms of crews to offer a more comfortable vehicle interior space. A vehicle-use crew heating device (10) comprises a vehicle-use seat (12) dividedly provided with a plurality of seat heaters (36, 38, 40, 42) according to the plurality of symptoms (for example, excessive sensitivity to cold, stiff shoulder, lumbago, swelling foot, fatigue) to be improved of a seated crew, and these seat heaters (36, 38, 40, 42) are selectively operated and heated according to the symptoms (for example, excessive sensitivity to cold, stiff shoulder, lumbago, swelling foot, fatigue) to be improved of the seated crew to heat locally (give warming stimulus to) a location according to a symptom to be improved of the seated crew. Accordingly, different symptoms (for example, excessive sensitivity to cold, stiff shoulder, lumbago, swelling foot, fatigue) can be improved according to conditions the crew is left to be able to offer a more comfortable vehicle interior space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Publication date: May 27, 2010
    Inventor: Koji Hattori
  • Publication number: 20090259151
    Abstract: A portable massage bed having a plurality of pressure point pads that protrude from a surface of the massage bed and contact one or more key pressure points of a user to relieve pain in muscles and tendons in pain afflicted areas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph A. McDonnell, Nicholas John Ruggiero, Joel A. Tunon
  • Publication number: 20090209887
    Abstract: The present invention is an article of manufacture, comprising a wrist pad having a pad base, a pad extension, and a wrist strap. The pad extension extends towards the palm from the wrist pad base. The article may also contain a vibrating mechanism and a support. The vibrating mechanism is typically one or more coin motors. The support is typically constructed of plastic. The invention is for use by data entry personnel and others who spend long periods using keyboards and computer mice. The goal of wrist pads and related devices is the prevention of repetitive motion injuries.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventors: Adalberto R. Diaz, Juan Fernandez
  • Patent number: 7553288
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pad and sound transmission system which is adapted to directly transmit audible sound waves into the body at high intensity levels. In one embodiment, the subject invention includes a back pad and a seat pad. Each pad includes a speaker module having an acoustic speaker disposed within the pad and surrounded by a plurality of different layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Daniel E. Cohen
  • Patent number: 7465280
    Abstract: Aspects of this invention relate to an adjustable bed that may include a motor, including a housing with a flange, an adjustable mattress support having a lateral surface, and an opening with a perimeter disposed within the lateral surface; at least one bracket coupled to the mattress support providing a lateral support surface inside the perimeter of the opening, the lateral support surface shaped and sized to laterally support the flange such that the motor is positioned to impart vibration to a mattress on the mattress support; and a resilient material disposed between the flange and the lateral support surface to provide mechanical insulation therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Publication number: 20080262396
    Abstract: A vibration and modulation system is provided for an array of air cells. The vibration and modulation system includes an air source, a high-pressure reservoir in fluid communication with the air source, and at least one valve coupled between the high-pressure air source and the array of air cells. A control assembly is coupled with the at least one valve and selectively controls a position of the valve to effect a vibratory action in the array of air cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Lydia B. Biggie, Marco A. Paez, David M. Genaro, John Biggie
  • Patent number: 7402146
    Abstract: A furniture includes an inflatable body and a plurality of vibrating units. Each of the vibrating units is mounted on the inflatable body, and includes a vibrating plate that is spaced apart from the inflatable body and that is formed with protrusions thereon, and a driving member for driving vibration of the vibrating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Hsin-Tsai Wu
  • Publication number: 20080033327
    Abstract: Apparatuses for supporting at least a portion of the body of a person include a flexible outer enclosure at least partially filled with particulate material. A first major surface of a cushion is disposed adjacent at least a portion of an interior surface of the outer enclosure. At least one vibration-generating device is disposed adjacent a second major surface of the cushion. Furniture covers configured to cover at least a portion of an article of furniture include a flexible outer enclosure, a cushion disposed at least a portion of an interior surface of the outer enclosure, and at least one vibration-generating device disposed adjacent the cushion. Methods for assembling a frameless article of furniture include positioning at least one vibration-generating device adjacent a cushion, positioning the cushion adjacent an interior surface of a flexible outer enclosure, and inserting particulate material into an interior region of the flexible outer enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventors: Zachary L. Evans, Samuel R. Cowley
  • Patent number: 7322058
    Abstract: An adjustable bed having an upper frame mounted to translate with respect to a lower frame. A center support is connected to the upper frame and has a head support pivotally connected to one end thereof. A thigh support is pivotally connected to the other end of the center support and a foot support is connected to the other end of the thigh support. The bed includes an improved mounting for a massage motor in which a massage motor is suspended from a mounting plate having openings therein resting on a mattress pad or base supported by an articulated support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: L & P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Thomas P. Long
  • Patent number: 7322947
    Abstract: The present invention is a vibratory patient support system. The support system has at least one bladder, at least one vibrational device, and first and second control units that respectively control (a) the inflation and deflation of the at least one bladder and (b) vibrational device. The at least one bladder (i) inflates when receiving a fluid at a faster rate than the fluid exiting the bladder; (ii) deflates when the fluid leaves the bladder at a faster rate than the fluid entering the bladder, and (iii) has a top surface that allows a user to apply pressure thereon and a bottom surface. The vibrational device (a) is positioned (i) under the bottom surface of the bladder, or (ii) within the bladder and below the top surface of the at least one bladder so it does not contact the top surface; and (b) generates a vibrational force. The first control unit can adjust the inflation of the at least one bladder. The second control unit can adjust the vibration forces generated from the vibration device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Assignee: Gaymar Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Roland E. Flick, Raymond P. Paolini, Jeffery Joseph Thompson, Greg Pepe, Patrick Legler
  • Patent number: 7318792
    Abstract: An exercise machine that allows an exercise similar to push-ups to be performed safely and has a base, a lever, a pad, a leveling rod, and a resilient element. The base has at least one bracket. The lever is attached pivotally to the bracket and has a front end, a rear end and a handlebar attached to the front end. The pad is attached to the rear end of the lever. The leveling rod is connected pivotally to the bracket and the pad. The resilient element is connected to the pad and the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2008
    Inventors: Chih-Liang Chen, Chih-Fu Chang
  • Patent number: 7297126
    Abstract: A portable massager adaptable for foot and wrist applications. An elongated resonator plate is formed from a plurality of contiguous hollow flutes oriented in a longitudinal direction. One or more vibrator cutouts are provided in the resonator plate, passing from its upper side to its lower side. A vibrator, preferably capable of operating from low voltage DC, nests within each cutout. A lower sheet covers the lower side of the resonator plate and lower face of the vibrator. An upper sheet accommodates the upper face of the vibrator and covers at least a portion of the upper side of the resonator plate. Top and bottom vinyl covers encase the massager construction. A vibrator control switch may be included in the power line extending from an external electrical connector to the vibrator. The massager may be powered by a wall transformer or by alternative mobile power sources.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Inventor: Gary W. Kries
  • Patent number: 7039970
    Abstract: An adjustable bed having an upper frame mounted to translate with respect to a lower frame. A center support is connected to the upper frame and has a head support pivotally connected to one end thereof. A thigh support is pivotally connected to the other end of the center support and a foot support is connected to the other end of the thigh support. The bed includes an improved mounting for a massage motor in which a massage motor is suspended from a mounting plate resting on a mattress pad or base supported by an articulated support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Thomas P. Long
  • Patent number: 7029452
    Abstract: A hydrotherapy system has a rigid tank filled with a liquid. At least one acoustic wave is impinged on the tank's exterior walls where it is coupled to the liquid for transmission therethrough. The acoustic wave interacts in the liquid with at least one of (i) a reflection of the acoustic wave from one of the tank's interior walls, and (ii) at least one other acoustic wave that was generated and impinged on another of the tank's exterior walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Noyal John Alton, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6835170
    Abstract: A low back stretching exercise apparatus which positions the user's knees into a zero to eighty-nine degree angle facing over their head thereby assuring the creation of a safe and gentle longitudinal-convex stretching of the muscles of the human low back. This specific longitudinal-convex stretching action improves low back strength and flexibility and helps to relieve muscle discomfort cause by abnormal stresses on the low back muscles. The unit is height adjusted using the Upright supports (12) & (16) and Tilt brackets (24). The person lies supine between the Stabilizer extensions (20) and places their calves on top of the Deck (10). The angle is adjusted by coupling the Connecting rods (14) with the Angle control bars (22).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Inventor: Henry Francis Ogle
  • Publication number: 20040153013
    Abstract: A pelvic support system includes a source of vibration, such as an engine of a motorcycle, connected to a frame. A first seat, such as a seat of a motorcycle, is connected to the frame. A secondary pelvic support is removably positioned adjacent to the first seat. When the source of vibration is started, vibrations from the engine propagate from the engine to the first seat and to the secondary pelvic support. The gentle vibration of the secondary pelvic support in an area of a rider's pelvic region stimulates the pelvic region, thus making the motorcycle ride more pleasurable. A method utilizing the pelvic support system is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Inventor: Matthew N. Osborne
  • Patent number: 6695798
    Abstract: An air cushion bed. The air cushion bed includes a massaging device. The massaging device includes an air cushion, vibrating motor, motor casing, massaging plate and adhesive strip. The air cushion includes air bladders that are linked together, and the vibrating motor is installed in the motor casing, whereon the massaging plate is installed. An adhesive strip is installed on the outer surface of the motor casing so that the motor casing can be fixed on the air bladders of the air cushion, allowing the air cushion bed to be a detachable device. The air cushion bed utilizes a microcomputer to activate the vibrating motor, which causes the motor casing to vibrate, which causes the massaging plate to vibrate, so that a patient resting on the massaging device can be massaged on the back portion through the vibration of the massaging plate, and the patient's blood circulation can be improved to minimize any bedsores for the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Chi-An Chang
  • Patent number: 6511446
    Abstract: A massage bead structure with heat application effect, more especially a press bead disposed with a vibrating wave-making massage apparatus for heat application, mainly has a semi-circular bead formed by a round canopy case body embedded with a vibrating wave generator therein and clamped outwardly with a heating piece composed by a ceramic-made electric resistance of positive temperature coefficient; the entire structure is inserted and connected to a leather mat plane in the shape of a fabric piece and formed into a plurality of beads arranged in rows; the heat wave produced from the said heat generator and transmitted through the round canopy case body is capable of synchronously massaging and being applied to the acupoint portion to obtain the complementary effect of physical therapy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Inventor: Chia-Hsiung Wu
  • Patent number: 6499161
    Abstract: An adjustable bed having an upper frame mounted to translate with respect to a lower frame. A center support is connected to the upper frame and has a head support pivotally connected to one end thereof. A thigh support is pivotally connected to the other end of the center support and a foot support is connected to the other end of the thigh support. The bed includes an improved mounting for a massage motor in which a resonator board is mounted on resilient spacers on an upper surface of a support platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Robert G. Godette
  • Patent number: 6468236
    Abstract: A vibrating massage table includes a base, a plurality of resilient support members secured to the base, and a platform supported by the resilient support members. An eccentric drive is connected to some of the plurality of resilient support members, such that eccentric operation of the eccentric drive transmits vibrations along the resilient support members to the platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2002
    Inventor: Douglas Sumanac
  • Publication number: 20020095104
    Abstract: A cushion-base electric mobile massaging device is disclosed for massaging the user's feet/back, including a covering, a cushion, an electric massaging assembly, and at least one shoe upper. In an alternate form of the invention, the cushion-base electric mobile massaging device includes two symmetrical cushion-base massaging units that can be fastened together to massage the user's back, or separately put on the user's feet to massage the sole of each foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Chao-Yang Chen
  • Patent number: 6228041
    Abstract: A lightweight, portable, hair-growth stimulator fixed to and disguised within a fashion hat. The scalp stimulator includes a vibrator capable of being powered by a portable direct current power source. Agitators are connected to the vibrator and are immersed within a vibration medium which is contained in a pliable bladder. The stimulator can be worn inconspicuously by a patient with great freedom as to time, manner, and place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Mark J. Ameer
  • Patent number: 6217533
    Abstract: A bed massager includes two vibrating units and a control unit. Each vibrating unit has two motors oriented at 90° relative to each other. The motors in each power unit preferably have different power ratings, and can operate at different speeds. One motor in each unit is controlled to necessarily operate at a different speed than a corresponding motor in the other unit in at least one mode of operation, to avoid monotonous vibration and ensure that a pulse/wave effect is achieved. The other motors can be operated over a continuous range of speeds. The control unit provides individual control of the two vibrating units. In addition, the other motors in each vibrating unit can be separately and variably controlled. The vibrating units can easily be placed between a box spring and an upper mattress of a bed, horizontally separated at some distance. The device can also be used with a chair, a pillow or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2001
    Assignee: Wahl Clipper Corporation
    Inventor: James E. McCambridge
  • Patent number: 6142963
    Abstract: A vibrating baby blanket is disclosed, comprising a traditional baby blanket. Located inside of the blanket is a vibrating mechanism, the approximate size of an adult's outstretched hand, which produces vibrations to simulate the patting of a parent on a child's back. The vibrating mechanism is adjustable in frequency and intensity. The blanket is decoratively adorned, and plays music via an electronic music box, located inside of a control unit. The control unit and vibrating mechanism are located inside of a pocket on the blanket, thus permitting them to be removed when the blanket needs washing. Power is supplied by a detachable power cord and direct current power supply, as well as a rechargeable batteries. A portable pad is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventors: John W. Black, Rebecca L. Dockery
  • Patent number: 6119291
    Abstract: A percussion and vibration apparatus for use in a bed is provided. A pressurized air input port is configured to be coupled to a pressurized air supply system. A valve assembly is coupled to the pressurized air input port. A percussion and vibration bladder port is coupled to the valve assembly and configured to be coupled to at least one percussion and vibration bladder. A controller is coupled to the valve assembly and configured to be coupled to a communication network to regulate flow of pressurized air through the valve assembly from the pressurized air input port to the percussion and vibration bladder port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Eugene E. Osborne, Scott D. McCormick, Stephen R. Schulte, David J. Ulrich, Dan Mansfield, John Vodzak, Mike Frondorf
  • Patent number: 6106490
    Abstract: An exercise and rehabilitation machine for strengthening the torso muscles and rehabilitating back injuries includes an optional leg support and an angled torso platform further having attached a plurality of vibrational therapy pads and body pads whereby the angled torso platform cradles and supports that portion of weight attributable to the upper body, or torso, of a user, and if the leg support is not used, the user supports that portion of weight attributable to the lower body with the user's feet against the bottom surface of a room, or otherwise, if the leg support is included, the user supports that portion of weight attributable to the lower body with the user's legs draped over the leg support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: George B. Shaw
  • Patent number: 6015394
    Abstract: The present invention involves an apparatus for stimulating skin tissue of a nonambulatory individual in a wheelchair or other mobile apparatus. The pouch of the present invention contains a fluid medium which is connected to an agitator which generates turbulence and disturbances within the fluid medium. For example, a vibrator may be placed adjacent to the pouch and vibrate the fluid medium. These motions are transmitted through the fluid medium to stimulate the skin and underlying tissue which is resting on the pouch. The pouch may be connected to the support bars of a wheelchair, or have arms to extend around and attach to a chair seat in a scooter. A pocket of the pouch serves to hold the agitator in contact with the fluid, e.g., water, so that the fluid is adequately turbulated and disturbed to have a stimulating effect on the body tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventor: Carol L. Young
  • Patent number: 5951500
    Abstract: An audio-responsive massage system includes a pad for contacting a user of the system; a plurality of vibratory transducers, each transducer having an eccentric element for vibrating the pad at variable intensity and associated vibration frequency in response to a power signal; a microphone for response to a remotely located source to provide an audio signal; an audio filter for selecting a desired frequency characteristic of the audio signal; a detector circuit for producing a control signal as an amplitude envelope of the audio signal and including a detector diode connected for feeding a low-pass filter; a power amplifier for producing the power signal in response to a control signal; and a sequencer for periodically activating different ones of the transducers for drive by the power amplifier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: JB Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Stanley Cutler
  • Patent number: 5913838
    Abstract: An insole which can be placed in a user's shoe incorporates vibrators which provide a vibrating massage. The vibrators are connected to a battery operated power supply which can be attached to a users leg by an elastic strap or attached to a user's shoe by a clip. A wire retraction unit is mounted on the power supply to take up slack in an electrical cable which connects the vibrators and the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Inventor: Peter C. Reilly
  • Patent number: 5868687
    Abstract: A chair comprises a seat and a back rest. At least one vibrator is positioned in the seat and/or the back rest. The chair further comprises a housing for receiving a replaceable battery for powering the vibrator. A main power control is positioned so as to be accessible to a person when seated in the chair. A separate mobile controller, which includes controls for actuating the vibrator, is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Global Upholstery Company
    Inventor: Romeo Tedesco