The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Nov. 09, 2010
Filed:
Jul. 28, 2006
Graham P. Cameron, Rochester, MN (US);
Wayne H. Fjerstad, Rochester, MN (US);
Barry K. Gilbert, Rochester, MN (US);
Kenton R. Kaufman, Rochester, MN (US);
Graham P. Cameron, Rochester, MN (US);
Wayne H. Fjerstad, Rochester, MN (US);
Barry K. Gilbert, Rochester, MN (US);
Kenton R. Kaufman, Rochester, MN (US);
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Rochester, MN (US);
Abstract
A magnetic levitation system for immobile patients in a wheelchair is disclosed. A magnet multi-pole configuration that is mechanically stable is provided that lifts the body and/or load shifts (rotates the body from side to side) the body. Based on a multi-pole configuration of permanent magnets in the pelvis, a corresponding multi-pole configuration for magnet repulsion is placed below the patient, typically as part of the wheelchair. Alternatively, a unipolar repulsion with mechanical patient restraint is implemented to achieve body lift or levitation. Either permanent magnets or electromagnets, optionally with magnetic sensor-mediated active computerized feedback control below the body, are sufficient to implement a complete multi-pole repulsive configuration that is mechanically stable. The apparatus reduces compressive force on soft tissues disposed between a human pelvis and a wheelchair seat.