Dan’s Publications And Patents

10,661,156 B2 – Three-Dimensional Letters Word Game Components and Game Methods of Play
Abstract:  A game apparatus and game methods of play that provide mental exercises to increase the level of abstract thinking to create 3-D objects from universally accepted 2-D flat patterns. Since we read and write on 2-D surfaces, the shapes we associate most with a 2-D environment are alphanumeric characters. Combining letters and numbers in a 3-D environment creates challenging exercises for visualizing 3-D shapes. The competitive games involve a series of 3-D manipulative modules. Play of the games involves scoring points for creating and/or discerning words made up of letters recognized from the 3-D manipulative modules. The games are for multiple players and can be implemented electronically and online.

7,418,751 – Positional feedback system for medical mattress systems
Abstract: An apparatus adjusts the pressures of a therapeutic mattress surface in accordance with the angular position of that surface. The apparatus comprises an angular position sensor and a rotation sensor which are housed together in an enclosure having a top surface in the form of a circular plate. The circular plate mounts either on the surface of the mattress or on the bottom of a bed frame supporting the mattress. The angular position and rotation sensors measure the horizontal plane referenced perpendicular to the direction of the force of gravity. The apparatus further comprises a controller blower valve assembly which processes data received from the angular position and rotation sensors to maintain, increase, or decrease the pressures within the mattress.

7,346,945 – Bariatric treatment system and related methods
Abstract: The invention relates to bariatric patient beds having apparatus and methods for monitoring and/or controlling therapeutic mattress systems and the patients supported thereon and, more particularly, to such bariatric beds having features for facilitating the care, support, and comfort of the bariatric patient through monitoring of angular deviations of the mattress surface and patient from the flat, horizontal position and control of the mattress system in response thereto.

6,904,631 – Bariatric treatment system and related methods
Abstract: A bariatric treatment system providing a comprehensive array of therapeutic services for the morbidly obese patient is disclosed. The treatment system generally comprises a stable bed frame upon which is mounted a low air loss therapeutic mattress system. Integrated hardware and software controls provide such therapies as pulsation, percussion, rotation, cardiac chair, and Trendelenburg. Means are disclosed whereby the bariatric patient may safely and comfortably enter and exit the bed.

6,892,405 – Therapeutic bed and related apparatus and methods
Abstract: A therapeutic mattress system and bed are disclosed for providing a comprehensive system of pulmonary and skincare therapies for the critically ill, immobilized patient. The features provided include rotational therapy, percussion therapy, and pulsation therapy on a critical care bed frame with a low air loss patient support, all of which are controlled with various types of feedback from particularized sensors in the bed.

6,536,056 – Bariatric treatment system and related methods
Abstract: A bariatric treatment system providing a comprehensive array of therapeutic services for the morbidly obese patient is disclosed. The treatment system generally comprises a stable bed frame upon which is mounted a low air loss therapeutic mattress system. Integrated hardware and software controls provide such therapies as pulsation, percussion, rotation, cardiac chair, and Trendelenburg. Means are disclosed whereby the bariatric patient may safely and comfortably enter and exit the bed with relative ease. The bed is adaptable for transport within a hospital, including such features as a TRANSPORT MODE wherein the bed’s lateral axis is minimized and battery backup to maintain necessary therapies during patient transport. A plurality of control means is disclosed for simplification of caregiver workload and ease of patient utilization.

6,361,542 – Obstetrical vacuum extractor cup with force measuring capabilities
Abstract: An optical strain gauge is coupled to an obstetrical vacuum extractor to measure the tensile strain resulting from the application of an extraction force. The measured strain is transmitted to a readout device and converted to a readable indication of the force applied. The optical strain gauge may be of any suitable design, so long as the measured reading may be transmitted and converted to a readable indication of the applied force either before or at the readout device. Preferably, the strain gauge is connected with an optical fiber to the readout device. The strain gauge may be coupled to or molded to any portion of the extractor that exhibits a tensile or compressive force or bending as a result of the application of the extraction force.

5,968,055 – Amniotic membrane perforator
Abstract: An amniotic membrane perforator comprising an elongated shaft portion having an arcuate bend at the proximal end of the shaft and a hook at the distal end of the shaft. A flag portion extends perpendicularly to the shaft substantially adjacent to the distal end of the shaft, opposite the hook. The cross-section of an extended length of the shaft inward the distal end is substantially oval. During use, the physician’s index finger is placed along the flat portion, and the thumb and second finger adjacent to the oval cross-section portion.

5,957,931 – Obstetrical vacuum extractor cup
Abstract: An obstetrical vacuum extractor comprising a vacuum cup to which a disk assembly and attached traction cord are rotatably coupled. The cup has a protrusion extending from its base, and the disk assembly a bore for receiving the protrusion. The protrusion is then preferably ultrasonically welded to create a button to rotatably retain the disk assembly on the cup.

4,775,288 – High-lift loader
Abstract: A self-propelled, low-profile, high-lift loader having the ability to lift loads higher above grade and lower below grade than previous such loaders of the same size category. The loader includes a main frame and a boom support frame pivotally connected at one end to the main frame. Power means are provided for elevating the opposite end with respect to the main frame. A boom butt is connected to the movable or free end of the boom support frame. The boom is pivotally rotatable about a horizontal axis on the boom support frame. Elevation of the boom support frame elevates the butt of the boom so as to extend the reach of the boom, as well as position the boom butt in an orientation permitting the boom to be extended downwardly to a below-grade location.

4,465,280 – Maze board game
Abstract: A maze game is provided which includes individual pieces that may be placed upon a game board, and markers that are moved along grooves formed in the upper surfaces of the individual pieces. The grooves of the individual pieces may be provided with gates extending across the grooves, the gates being pivotable within an intersection of grooves in a manner not determinable in advance by a moving player.