Patent Publication Number: US-9427086-B2

Title: Apparatus and system for dynamically correcting posture

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is the U.S. National Phase Patent Application under 35 U.S.C. §371 of International Application No. PCT/US2010/042785 (published as WO 2011/090505 A1), filed on Jul. 21, 2010, which is a Continuation-in-Part of International Application No. PCT/US 10/021,881 (published as WO 2010/085707 A1) having an International filing date of Jan. 22, 2010, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/147,053 filed on Jan. 23, 2009. These applications, PCT/US2010/042785, PCT/US 10/021,881 and U.S. Application Ser. No. 61/147,053 are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention in general to orthosis and in particular to a seating orthosis. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Chairs and sofas are typically constructed from posterior and lumbar supporting assemblies having generally a frame with a plurality of springs, a cushion or pad which rests on the springs, and an upholstery cover. These assemblies, although flexible due to their spring construction, assume a predetermined fixed shape which requires that for maximum comfort, persons using such furniture must adjust their body positions relative to these assemblies. 
     There are many ergonomic supports in the nature of chairs, sofas and the like which include flexible and resilient supporting portions which conform to the body to provide comfort. All of these posterior and lumbar supporting sitting surfaces, whether contoured or non-planar, have the ability to form a plurality of cantilevers which automatically adjust and conform to human body movement without mechanical parts, as opposed to adjusting the human body to conform to the supporting portion of the seating surface. 
     It is now understood that gluteal spreading, commonly known as “secretary spread” is as injurious to the pelvis and spine as incorrect posture. No matter how comfortable an ergonomic seating device is, continuous sitting on anthropometrically measured seating devices will in most humans result in repetitive stress injuries to the back. U.S. Pat. No. 5,887,951 provides a seating device having a uniform thickness member providing support for a user&#39;s pelvic area. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides an apparatus for improving posture while sitting. In one embodiment, the present invention provides an orthopedic device for improving posture while sitting. The orthopedic device, comprising a foundation member comprising a front portion configured to receive a user&#39;s upper legs and a bowl portion configured to receive a user&#39;s lower pelvic area, the bowl portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion. The lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion. 
     A platform portion is connected with a concave recessed portion. An arm portion is connected to the platform portion. The central portion has plural regions of varying flexibility and the lateral portion has plural regions of varying flexibility. A seating apparatus is connected with the orthopedic seating device. 
     In another embodiment the present invention provides an orthopedic seating device for improving posture while sitting. The orthopedic seating device comprising: a foundation member comprising: a front portion including at least one individual front section configured to receive a user&#39;s upper legs. A central portion includes a pair of adjacent individual central sections. A lateral portion includes a pair of upwardly inclined, partially adjacent, individual lateral sections flanking and partially surrounding the central sections. A platform portion is connected with a concave recessed portion. 
     An arm portion is connected to the platform portion. Each central section has plural regions of varying flexibility and each lateral section has plural regions of varying flexibility. The lateral sections and the front section collectively surround the central sections such that the central portion and the lateral portion together form a bowl portion configured to receive a user&#39;s lower pelvic area and to apply an upwardly and inwardly compressive force when the lower pelvic area of the user is disposed in the bowl portion. 
     The bowl portion is configured to rotate between a first position when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is not disposed in the bowl portion, and a second position, rotationally forward of the first position, when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is disposed in the bowl portion, thereby causing forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. A seating apparatus is connected with the orthopedic seating device. 
     Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, which, when taken in conjunction with the drawings, illustrate by way of example the principles of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1 a    shows a perspective view of a seating apparatus for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading in a human user, the seating apparatus having multiple varying thickness sections, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 1 b    shows a right side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    on a supporting surface, with a representation of anatomy of a user in the act of sitting, approaching the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 1 c    shows a right side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 b    with the user touching the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 1 d    shows a right side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 c    with the user filling the seating apparatus until a secondary shape is achieved and a full forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 1 e    shows a side view rendering of anatomical Kyphotic lumbar spine and pelvis. 
         FIG. 1 f    shows a side view of a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation corresponding to the anatomical Kyphotic lumbar spine and pelvis of  FIG. 1   e.    
         FIG. 1 g    shows a side view rendering of anatomical lordotic lumbar spine and pelvis. 
         FIG. 1 h    shows a side view of a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation corresponding to the anatomical Lordotic lumbar spine and pelvis of  FIG. 1   g.    
         FIG. 2 a    shows a side view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    disposed on a hard supporting surface, wherein the seating apparatus is in a weight bearing position, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 b    shows a rear anatomical view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 2 a   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 c    shows a rear anatomical view of a user with twisting spine seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    with the seating apparatus in torsion on its axis, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 d    shows a side anatomical view of a user with twisting spine seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 2 c    with the seating apparatus in torsion on its axis, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 e    shows a rear anatomical view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    with the seating apparatus on a soft seating surface, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 f    shows a side anatomical view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 2 f    with the seating apparatus on a soft seating surface, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 g    shows a rear anatomical view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    with the seating apparatus on a flexible fiber mesh suspended between a framed seat pan surface, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2 h    shows a side anatomical view of a user seated on the seating apparatus of  FIG. 2 h    with the seating apparatus on a flexible fiber mesh suspended between a frame seat pan surface, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 3 a    shows an aerial top view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , indicating width and length of the seating apparatus having multiple sections, along with a concave channel along the long axis of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 3 b    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 3 a   , indicating a concave channel along the long axis of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 3 c    is a view similar to  FIG. 3 a    but to a larger scale and showing by the use of dashed lines, the shift that has taken place when the seating apparatus has assumed its secondary configuration while bearing the weight of a seated user. 
         FIG. 3 d    is a view similar to  FIG. 3 c   , but showing by use of dashed lines, the shifting that takes place at the time weight has been placed upon the foundation member, further torsion of the foundation member when a seated user twists to the right. 
         FIG. 3 e    is a view similar to  FIG. 3 c   , but showing by use of dashed lines, the shifting that takes place at the time weight has been placed upon the foundation member, further torsion of the foundation member when a seated user twists to the left. 
         FIG. 4 a    shows an aerial top view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , indicating varying thickness regions in the sections of the foundation member of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4 b    shows an aerial top view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    with an optional back section, indicating varying thickness regions in the sections of the foundation member of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 4 c    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 4 a   , indicating varying thickness regions in the sections of the foundation member of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 3 b   , indicating the concave channel and a rear portion of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 a    shows an aerial top view of the seating apparatus, with multiple individual sections, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 b    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 a   , with multiple sections shown exploded to illustrate a connection mechanism for the multiple sections, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 c    shows a perspective view of an integrated seat pan configuration of a seating apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention, with arrows illustrating movement of the sections when the seating apparatus transitions from a non-weight bearing shape to a weight bearing shape. 
         FIG. 6 d    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 c   , when the seating apparatus transitions from a non-weight bearing shape to a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 e    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 c   , with the seating apparatus having transitioned to a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 f    shows a front perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 e   , with the seating apparatus having transitioned to a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 g    shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 c   , with the seating apparatus in a non-weight bearing shape, indicating overlapping of side sections and overlapping of central sections, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 h    shows a side perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 g   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 i    shows a front perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIGS. 6 g  and 6 h   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 j    shows a bottom perspective view of another integrated seat pan configuration of a seating apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention, with the seating apparatus in a non-weight bearing shape, with cone shapes point where the sections of the seating apparatus may be attached to a support environment for manipulating the sections of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 k    shows a bottom perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 j    in a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 l    shows a bottom perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 j    without a back section in a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 m    shows a bottom aerial view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 j    with the seating apparatus in a non-weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 n    shows a right side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 j   , with a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation of a user in the act of sitting, approaching the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 o    shows a right side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 n   , with the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton touching the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 6 p    shows a right side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 6 o    with the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton filling the seating apparatus until total secondary shape is achieved and a full forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7 a    shows a right side view of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , on a supporting surface, superimposing the illustration on  FIG. 1 c    on the illustration of  FIG. 1 d   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7 b    shows a cross-section view E-E of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 7 a   , looking from the rear, showing the ischial tuberosities pelvis prior to the user distal thighs pushing down on the front section of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 7 c    shows a cross-section view E-E of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 7 a   , looking from the rear, showing tuberosities and pelvis fully engage and filling central sections of the weight bearing seating apparatus with muscle tissue, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8 a    shows a side view of the seating apparatus and mechanical robot anatomical skeleton, corresponding to  FIG. 1 c   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8 b    shows a side view of the seating apparatus and mechanical robot anatomical skeleton corresponding to  FIG. 1 d   , with the seating apparatus in a tilted forward weight bearing position, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8 c    shows a side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 8 b    without mechanical robot anatomical skeleton, showing shifted center of gravity equilibrium point due to tilt/rotation of the seating apparatus in a weight bearing position, and a central section incline, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 8 d    shows a front perspective view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , with arrows illustrating movement of the sections when the seating apparatus transitions from a non-weight bearing shape to a weight bearing shape, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 9  shows a rear view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    with anatomy of the user seated in the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 a    shows a side view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 8 c   , showing a weight bearing position of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 b    shows a cross-section view G-G of the weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 10 a   , with a non-weight bearing position in dashed lines superimposed thereon, indicating the cupping effect of the weight bearing position of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 c    shows a rear view of a weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , with an anatomical illustration, with arrows indicating the cupping and cradling of the gluteus muscles that place inward pressure on the lower wings of the pelvis Ischial Tuberosites, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 d    shows a rear view of the weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 10 c   , on a soft supporting surface, indicating how the seating apparatus maintains the cupping and cradling of the gluteus muscles when the user leans sideways, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 e    shows a cross-section view G-G of a non-weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 10 a   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 10 f    shows a cross-section view G-G of the weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 10 a   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11 a    shows a user seated on a seating surface without the seat apparatus of the invention, with the arrows indicating improper distribution of pressure and the outward movement of the lower pelvis in a sitting position of the wing like pelvis, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 11 b    shows another of the weight bearing seating apparatus of  FIG. 10 c    with a user seated thereon, arrows indicating proper distribution of pressure cupping and cradling of the rear and side sections of the weight bearing seating apparatus and the inward movement of the lower pelvis in a sitting position of the wing like pelvis, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12 a    shows a top perspective view superimposition of non-weight bearing position of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    in dashed lines, and weight bearing position of the seating apparatus in solid lines, indicating forward shifting in center of gravity equilibrium from the non-weight bearing position to weight bearing position of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12 b    shows a bottom perspective view of the illustration in  FIG. 12 a   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 12 c    shows cross-section views of the illustration in  FIG. 12 a   , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 12 d  and 12 e    show corresponding side and back views, respectively, of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , with superimposition of weight bearing position of the seating apparatus in solid lines, and weight bearing position of the seating apparatus in dashed lines with torsion on its longitudinal axis and a lateral axis due to rotation of the upper body of a seated user to the right, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 12 f  and 12 g    show corresponding side and back views, respectively, of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , with superimposition of weight bearing position of the seating apparatus in solid lines, and weight bearing position of the seating apparatus in dashed lines with torsion on its longitudinal axis and a lateral axis due to rotation of the upper body of a seated user to the right, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 13 a    illustrates a bottom view of an actual pressure map on a user seated on an embodiment the seating apparatus according to the invention, showing a center of gravity indicator. 
         FIG. 13 b    illustrates a bottom view of actual pressure map on a user seated on a conventional ergonomic seat, showing a center of gravity indicator. 
         FIGS. 14 a  through 14 i    show different perspective views of the apparatus of  FIG. 1 a    in weight bearing positions under weight of a seated user, indicated by a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation, illustrating the effect of a twisting of spine and various load positions due to movement of the seated user in the course of natural sitting over a period of time, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 15  shows an embodiment of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 1 a   , having a foundation member and fabric foam overlay, with thicknesses of the foundation member and foam overlay attachment, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIGS. 16 a -16 c    show a user seated on a seating apparatus in  FIG. 1 a    from different perspectives, with the upper body of the user twisted to one side, illustrating how the seating apparatus torsions and aligns the pelvis into a lordotic posture while the body moves and twists, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 17 a    shows a side view of the foundation member of a seating apparatus in  FIG. 1 a    with a recessed concave channel detail, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 17 b    shows a cross section of the foundation member in  FIG. 17 a   , in a cutting plane along lines A-A in  FIG. 1   a.    
         FIG. 18 a    shows a top aerial view of the foundation member of the seating apparatus in  FIGS. 3A-3B , according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 18 b    through  FIG. 18 n    show cross-sections B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, F-F, O-O, H-H, I-I, K-K, L-L, M-M, N-N, respectively, as indicated in  FIG. 18   a.    
         FIG. 19  shows a flowchart of a process for posture alignment, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 20  shows a top view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 21  shows a perspective view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 20  according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 22A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system coupled with an arm, shown in a first position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 22B  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system coupled with an arm, shown in a second position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 23  shows a close-up view of motion track system coupling portion for a seating apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 24  shows a top view of a seating apparatus including a circumferential bezel and a motion track system according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 25  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair showing posture of a human anatomy seated in the seating apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 26A  shows a perspective view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 26B  shows a bottom perspective view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 27A  shows an exploded cross-sectional side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 27B  shows a cross-sectional side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus shown in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 27C  shows a cross-sectional side view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus shown in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 28A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in a one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 28B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in a another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 29A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in one position with cross-sections A, B and C according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 29B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in another position with cross-sections A, B and C according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 29C  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in one position, and showing direction of forces according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 29D  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus with a cushion apparatus showing posture of a human anatomy in one position, and showing direction of forces according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 30  shows a top view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and mechanically controllable lumbar support according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 31  shows a bottom perspective view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 32A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support showing direction of motion according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 32B  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support showing direction of motion according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 33A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and mechanically controllable lumbar support shown integrated with a seating apparatus shown reacting to a user&#39;s movement in a first position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 33B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and mechanically controllable lumbar support shown integrated with a seating apparatus shown reacting to a user&#39;s movement in a second position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 34A  shows a rear view of a mechanically controllable lumbar support according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 34B  shows a rear view of a mechanically controllable lumbar support according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 35A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus integrated with a-memory retentive lumbar support pad with an arm shown in a first position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 35B  shows a side view of a seating apparatus integrated with a memory retentive lumbar support pad with an arm shown in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 36  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system integrated in a chair/stool apparatus, with a mechanically controllable lumbar support according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 37A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support integrated in a trampoline like chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 37B  shows an exploded side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 37A . 
         FIG. 38A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support integrated in a trampoline like chair apparatus showing a human anatomy in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 38B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support integrated in a trampoline like chair apparatus showing a human anatomy in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 39A  shows an exploded side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus, motion track system and mechanically controllable lumbar support integrated in another trampoline like chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 39B  shows an integrated side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 39A . 
         FIG. 40A  shows a perspective view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and motion track system integrated in a cushion and chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 40B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus integrated in a cushion, showing a human anatomy in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 40C  shows a side view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 40B . 
         FIG. 40D  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus integrated in a cushion, showing a human anatomy in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 41A  shows a bottom perspective view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 41B  shows a top view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system according to another embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 41C  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system shown in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 41D  shows a side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system shown in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 42  shows a rear cross-sectional view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 43A  shows an exploded side view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system integrated in a cushion of a chair apparatus according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 43B  shows an integrated side view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 43A  shown in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 43C  shows an integrated side view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 43A  shown in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 44A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system integrated in a cushion of a chair apparatus, showing a human anatomy in one position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 44B  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus including an active orthopedic apparatus and equilibrium balance point system integrated in a cushion of a chair apparatus, showing a human anatomy in another position according to one embodiment of the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention provides a method and apparatus for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading. One embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention comprises an orthopedic device for improving posture while sitting. The orthopedic device comprises a foundation member including a front portion configured to receive a user&#39;s upper legs, and a bowl portion configured to receive a user&#39;s lower pelvic area, the bowl portion comprising a central portion and an upwardly inclined lateral portion, wherein the lateral portion and the front portion collectively surround the central portion. The central portion has plural regions of varying (i.e., different) flexibility and the lateral portion has plural regions of varying flexibility. The bowl portion configured for applying an upwardly and inwardly compressive force when the lower pelvic area of the user is disposed in the bowl portion. 
     The bowl portion is configured to rotate on a supporting surface between a first position when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is not disposed in the bowl portion, and a second position, rotationally forward of the first position, when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is disposed in the bowl portion, to thereby cause a forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. Example implementations of the orthopedic device according to the invention are described below. 
       FIG. 1 a    shows an example implementation of an orthopedic seating device (seating orthosis)  100  according to the invention, intended to be utilized by a seated user, which provides a forward tilting of the entire pelvis of the seated user as well as cupping and cradling effect around the lower pelvis and ischial tuberosities of the seated user. The ischial tuberosities are indicated at i in  FIG. 9 . Parts or components of the pelvic area depicted in  FIG. 9  are as follows: a pubic arch, b sacrum, c coccyx, d crest of the ilium, f symphysis pubis crest, g posterior pelvic girdle, h hip socket, i ischial tuberosities, m muscle tissue, p pelvis, s spine, t thigh, w soft tissues of various widths. 
     In the perspective view shown in  FIG. 1 a   , the device  100  comprises a foundation member  12 . The device  100  further includes a padding layer  13  ( FIG. 15 ), such as foam, on top of the foundation member  12 . The padding layer  13  is only shown in  FIG. 15  for clarity of depictions of the foundation member  12  in other figures. 
     The foundation member  12  comprises a front portion comprising at least one front section  101  configured to receive a user&#39;s upper legs. The foundation member further comprises a central portion comprising a pair of adjacent central sections  102  and  103 . The foundation member further comprises a lateral portion comprising a pair of upwardly inclined, partially adjacent, lateral sections  104  and  105 , flanking and partially surrounding the central sections  102  and  103 . 
       FIG. 4 a    shows an aerial top view of the foundation member  12 , indicating varying thickness regions in the sections  101 - 105  of the foundation member  12 . Each of the central sections  102  and  103  has plural regions of varying flexibility and each of the lateral sections  104  and  105  has plural regions of varying flexibility ( FIG. 4 a   ). The lateral sections  104 ,  105 , and the front section  101  collectively surround the central sections  102  and  103 , such that the central portion and the lateral portion together form a bowl portion  20  (generally indicated in  FIGS. 8 a , 8 b , 10 b   ). The bowl portion  20  is generally formed by sections  102 ,  103 ,  104  and  105 . The bowl portion is configured to receive a user&#39;s lower pelvic area and to apply an upwardly and inwardly compressive force when the lower pelvic area of the user is disposed in the bowl portion. 
       FIG. 1 b    shows a right side view of the device  100  on a supporting surface  40 , with a representation of anatomy of a user in the act of sitting, approaching the device  100 . In  FIG. 1 b   , the device  100  is in the first position (i.e., non-weight bearing position).  FIG. 1 c    shows a transitional state with the user touching the device, continuing the act of sitting and continuing transfer of body weight to the device  100 . 
     The bowl portion is further configured to rotate on a supporting surface  40  between a first position ( FIG. 1 b   ) when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is not disposed in the bowl portion, and a second position ( FIG. 1 d   ), rotationally forward of the first position, when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is disposed in the bowl portion, to thereby cause a forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area by an angle θ into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion.  FIG. 1 d    shows the user having completed the act of sitting the device  100 , filling the device  100  with gluteus muscles of the user in the lower pelvic area, until a secondary shape is achieved and a full forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to the invention. In  FIG. 1 d   , the device  100  is in the second position (i.e., weight bearing position). 
       FIG. 2 a    shows a side view of the user seated on the device  100  disposed on a hard supporting surface  40 , wherein the device  100  is in the weight bearing position.  FIG. 2 b    shows a rear view of a user seated on the weight bearing device  100  of  FIG. 2 a   . Further,  FIG. 2 c    shows a rear view of a user with twisting motion of the spine s as the user is seated on the device  100  with the foundation member  12  in torsion on its axes due to twisting motion of the user, wherein the device  100  is in the weight bearing position.  FIG. 2 d    shows a side view of the illustration in  FIG. 2 c   . The device  100  in the weight bearing positions shown causes a forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. 
       FIG. 2 e    shows a rear view of the user seated on the device  100  disposed on a generally soft supporting surface  40   a  (e.g., a cushion), wherein the device  100  is in the weight bearing position.  FIG. 2 f    shows a side view of the user seated on the weight bearing device  100  of  FIG. 2 e   .  FIG. 2 g    shows a rear view of the user seated on the device  100  disposed on a generally soft supporting surface  40   a  (e.g., flexible fiber mesh suspended between a framed seat pan surface), wherein the device  100  is in the weight bearing position.  FIG. 2 f    shows a side view of a user seated on the weight bearing device  100  of  FIG. 2 e   . The device  100  in the weight bearing positions shown causes a forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. 
     In the perspective view of the device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 a   , as noted the foundation member  12  comprises multiple sections  101 ,  102 ,  103 ,  104  and  105 , configured to assume a highly advantageous weight bearing secondary shape during use when a user is seated on the device  100 . As described in more detail further below. 
     In response to a user sitting on the device  100 , the action of the sections  101 ,  102 ,  103  and  104  (collectively forming a bowl portion or central bowl portion, as referred to herein), causes cupping and cradling of gluteus muscles of the user in the lower pelvic area. When a user is seated on the device  100 , the foundation member  12  continually applies dynamic support to stabilize the pelvis and holds the pelvis in a correct lordotic curve, regardless of how a sitting user moves while seated. The plural regions of varying flexibility in the foundation member  12  allow the foundation member  12  to effectively “reset” in shape such that the user is held essentially in a constant, perpetuating process of tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a forward lordotic position after the lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. This provides a distinct orthopedic benefit, which is greater than any benefit brought about by conventional seating devices specifically designed to provide pelvic stabilization and comfort for a seated user. 
     Section  101  is generally referred to as a front section. Central sections  102  and  103  are generally referred to as center or central portion sections. Lateral sections  104  and  105  are generally referred to as rear and/or side sections. Each of the sections  101 - 105  has one or more regions of varying (different) flexibility which collectively provide the foundation member  12  with a highly advantageous weigh bearing (secondary shape) in said second position. As described further below, in one example of the invention, the foundation member  12  is made of memory retentive nylon or plastic material. In the embodiments described herein, different flexibility regions of the foundation member  12  are achieved by regions of different relative thickness of the foundation member material which collectively provide the foundation member  12  with a highly advantageous weigh bearing (secondary shape) during use. Thicker regions are less flexible to bending forces than thinner regions. 
       FIG. 4 a    shows an aerial top view of the foundation member  12 , indicating varying (different) thickness regions in the sections  101 - 105  of the foundation member  12 . The thickness of the regions varies in depth looking directly down on the drawing sheet of  FIG. 4 a    (the regions have different cross-sections in terms of thickness). In this example, section  101  includes regions  1 A,  1 B,  1 C- 1 ,  1 C- 2 ,  1 D- 1 ,  1 D- 2 . Section  102  includes regions  2 B,  2 C,  2 D,  2 E,  2 F. Section  103  includes regions  3 B,  3 C,  3 D,  3 E,  3 F. Section  104  includes regions  4 C,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 D- 1 ,  4 F. Section  105  includes regions  5 C,  5 D- 2 ,  5 E,  5 D- 1 ,  5 F. 
       FIG. 4 a    illustrates example gradations in thickness for the various regions of sections  101 - 105  by different stippling, wherein the corresponding stippling in the legend in the bottom of the drawing sheet shows example approximate thicknesses from about 1.5 mm (darkest or most densely stippled indicated by thickness indicator “A”) to about 3.5 mm (lightest or least densely stippled, indicated by thickness indicator “F”), for the various regions. For example, regions with thickness A are about 1.5 mm thick, regions with thickness B are about 1.75 mm thick, regions with thickness C are about 2.0 mm thick, regions with thickness D are about 2.5 mm thick. Regions with thickness E are about 3.0 mm thick. Regions with thickness F are about 3.5 mm thick. Other relative thickness ranges may be utilized.  FIG. 4 c    shows a perspective view of the foundation member  12  of  FIG. 4 a   , indicating varying thickness regions in the sections of the foundation member  12 . 
     In  FIG. 4 a   , said thickness indicators A through F are used as part of the naming of the regions of the foundation member  12 . Regions  4 F and  5 F are the thickest regions (e.g., 3.5 mm thick), whereas region  1 A is the thinnest region. For the regions on the left side of central (i.e., longitudinal) axis A-A in  FIG. 4 a   , the following is a listing of sets of regions, decreasing in order from thickest to thinnest: { 4 F,  2 F}, { 4 E,  2 E}, { 2 D,  4 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  1 D- 1 }, { 2 C,  4 C,  1 C- 1 }, { 1 B,  2 B}, and { 1 A}. Regions on the right of the center line A-A are of same thickness as corresponding regions on the left of center line A-A. Specifically, the following is a listing of sets of regions on the right side of line A-A, decreasing in order from thickest to thinnest: { 5 F,  3 F}, { 5 E,  3 E}, { 3 D,  5 D- 1 ,  5 D- 2 ,  1 D- 2 }, { 3 C,  5 C,  1 C- 2 }, { 1 B,  3 B}, and { 1 A}. 
     The regions  1 A and  1 B of section  101  are relatively thinner and more flexible regions of the foundation member  12 . The regions  2 F,  3 F,  4 F,  5 F are relatively thicker and least flexible regions of the foundation member  12 . A generally “M” shaped zone of the foundation member  12  comprises the regions  2 F,  3 F,  4 F,  5 F,  4 E,  3 E,  4 D- 2 ,  5 D- 2 ,  1 D- 1 ,  1 D- 2 . Dovetailed with the generally “M” shaped zone is a generally “U” shaped zone that comprises regions  4 D- 1 ,  5 D- 1 ,  4 C,  5 C,  2 D,  3 D,  2 C,  3 C,  1 B,  1 A in the foundation member  12 , wherein the lowest part of the “U” shaped zone (region  1 A) is thinnest and so most flexible. 
       FIG. 3A  shows an aerial top view of the foundation member  12 , indicating width W and length L of the foundation member  12 .  FIG. 3B  shows a front top perspective view of the foundation member  12  of  FIG. 3A . As illustrated, the foundation member  12  includes a concave channel (i.e., concave recessed portion)  110 , extending partially along the axis A-A, protruding from the underside of the foundation member  12 . Portions of the regions  2 F,  3 F,  4 F and  5 F, form said recessed concave channel  110 . As indicated in  FIG. 4A , the rear and side regions  4 F,  5 F of sections  104 ,  105 , are among the thickest and least flexible regions of the foundation member  12 . Similarly, the regions  2 F,  3 F of sections  104 ,  105  are among the thickest and least flexible regions of the foundation member  12 . As such, the concave channel  110  is formed of thickest and least flexible regions of the foundation member  12 . The concave channel  110  also provides a concave coccyx cup area  110   a  ( FIG. 3 a   ), allowing the variable coccyx angles so as to keep the surface of the device  100  in the area  110  from ever coming in contact with the lower Sacral joints and coccyx.  FIG. 17 a    shows a side view of the foundation member  12  and  FIG. 17 b    shows a cross section of the foundation member in  FIG. 17 a   , in a cutting plane along lines A-A in  FIG. 1 a   , showing the concave channel  110 . 
     Example average dimensions for the device  100  are about W=12.625 inches (i.e., 32.35 cm) wide, and about L=14.625 inches (i.e., 37.6 cm) long ( FIG. 3 a   ). By contrast, the average size for conventional seta pans (e.g., flexible woven mesh, foam, plastic or wood) is about 21.6 inches wide and about 17.9 inches long (another example is a seat pan 20.25 wide and 21.25 long). Such conventional seat pan dimensions apply to a static sub seat pan. Unlike conventional seat pans, the device  100  does not simply conform to the gluteus shape of a seated user, but rather counter-intuitively, the sections  104  and  105  move inward and upward to cup the gluteus. The supporting surface may be a conventional static seat pan upon which the device  100  may be placed. The conventional seat can be made from a number of materials, woven, flexible fibers suspended between metal framework, contoured foam padding in various densities and hard materials such as plastics, woods and metals. 
     The concave channel  110  comprises a downwardly extending recess portion at the rear portion  16  of the sections  104  and  105  (regions  4 F and  5 F), continues throughout sections  102  and  103  (regions  2 F and  3 F), symmetrically along the longitudinal centerline/axis A-A. The concave channel  110  ends just before section  101 . The concave channel  110  is disposed at approximately the location of the coccyx of a user seated on the central bowl portion  20 , with the area  110   a  serving to remove the possibility of considerable pressure being applied to the coccyx area of the seated user. 
       FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of the foundation member  12  of  FIG. 3B  illustrating the concave channel  110 , and further indicating a rear portion (segment)  16  of the foundation member  12 . The rear  16  includes portions of the regions  4 F and  5 F of sections  104 ,  105 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , the depth of the concave channel  110  gradually decreases as the concave channel  110  extends from upper edges of sections  104  and  105  through the sections  102 ,  103 , to the section  101 .  FIG. 18 a    shows a top aerial view of the foundation member  12  of  FIGS. 3A-3B , and  FIG. 18 b    through  FIG. 18 n    show cross-sections along cutting planes B-B, C-C, D-D, E-E, F-F, O-O, H-H, I-I, K-K, L-L, M-M, N-N, respectively, as indicated in  FIG. 18 a   .  FIG. 18 b    through  FIG. 18 n    show general cross-section thicknesses of the foundation member  12 , and further indicate said gradual change in the depth and thickness of the concave channel  110 . The concave channel  110  protrudes from the underside of the foundation member  12  ( FIG. 18 b   ). 
     The bowl portion of the foundation member  12  has an underside, at least a portion of which is arcuate and configured to rotate on a supporting surface said first position (non-weight bearing position) when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is not disposed in the bowl portion, and a second position (weight bearing position), rotationally forward of the first position, when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is disposed in the bowl portion. The bowl portion has an underside, at least a portion of which is arcuate along an underside of the concave recessed channel  110  and configured to rotate on a seating surface between the first position and the second position. 
     The concave channel  110  essentially functions as a downwardly extending wheel-like structure, protruding from a portion of the underside of the foundation member  12  ( FIG. 18 b   ), promoting the forward rotation of the foundation member from the non-weight bearing to the weight bearing position of the device  100  under user&#39;s body. In example, the concave channel  110  is about 10 mm deep at its widest 55 mm, tapering to 40 mm (millimeters). The channel  110  causes rotation of the device  100  on all types of seating surfaces including seat pans ( FIGS. 2 a -2 h   ). The channel  110  intersects a generally circular pelvic landing zone  3  in central sections  102 ,  103  ( FIG. 1 a   ), wherein the circular pelvic landing zone  3  comprises portions of regions  2 F,  3 F,  2 E,  3 E ( FIG. 4 a   ). The relatively thicker regions  2 F and  3 F, along with adjacent regions  2 E and  3 E, provide said landing zone  3  which support the user&#39;s pelvic floor on the concave channel  110 . 
     Sections  104  and  105  have an upward incline as shown in  FIG. 1 a   . Region  4 F of the section  104  forms an arcuate rear and lateral area of the bowl portion with an upper edge. Region  5 F of the section  105  forms another arcuate rear and lateral area of the bowl portion with an upper edge. Regions  4 F,  5 F along with regions  4 E,  5 E,  4 D- 2 ,  5 D- 2 ,  1 D- 1  and  1 D- 2 , form tension regions (tension members) of lower flexibility than other regions of the bowl portion. The tension regions couple to the front section  101  from around and sides of sections  102  and  103  ( FIG. 4 a   ), such that application of a downward force on the front section  101  from a user&#39;s upper legs, causes an upward and inward movement of the upper edges of the rear and lateral area (including  4 F,  5 F,  4 E,  3 E) of the bowl portion after the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is placed in the bowl portion. Other regions of the foundation member  12  that generally have higher flexibility than said tension regions (and generally have higher flexibility than the regions of the concave channel  110 ), allow upward and inward movement of said tension regions in response to application of said downward force on the section  101 . Essentially at the same time, the concave channel  110  protruding from the underside of the foundation member  12 , promotes the forward rotation of the foundation member  12  from the non-weight bearing to the weight bearing position of the device  100  under user&#39;s body. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3 a  and 3 b   , the front portion of the foundation member  12  comprises the front section  101  which is generally lip-like. The sections  104  and  105  are upwardly inclined, and sections  102  and  103  are generally upwardly inclined proximate the sections  104  and  105 . The upwardly curved side sections  104  and  105  start at the center line A-A forming said concave channel  110  ( FIGS. 3 a , 3 b   ). The sections  104 ,  105  curve around the sections  102 ,  103 , until they reach section  101 . The upwardly curved side sections  104  and  105  extend upwardly somewhat higher than the central sections  102  and  103 , wherein the side sections  104  and  105  are essentially equidistant from longitudinal centerline axis A-A extending through the central part of the foundation member  12  between the front section  101  and the rear/side sections  104  and  105 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 a   , the side sections  104  and  105  are band type, each having five regions. The sections  104  and  105  collectively include around their upper edges the regions  1 C- 1 ,  1 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 F,  5 F,  5 E,  5 D,  1 D- 1 ,  1 C- 1 . Further, the sections  104  and  105  collectively include around their lower edges the regions  4 D- 1 ,  4 C,  5 D 1 ,  5 C, which are adjacent sections  102  and  103  at regions  2 B,  2 C,  2 D,  3 D,  3 C,  3 B. Essentially all five regions of section  104 , and all five regions of section  105 , are placed under tension when the user&#39;s lower pelvic area is placed in the central bowl portion  20 . 
     The pelvic floor landing zone  3  ( FIG. 3 a   ) indicated by regions  2 E and  3 E in  FIG. 4 a   ) provide an area that is proportionally sized to the average pelvic outlet (base for the ischial tuberosities, that are to be located at its center). The sections  102  and  103  (including regions  2 B,  2 C,  2 D,  2 E,  2 F,  3 F,  3 F,  3 E,  3 D,  3 C,  3 B), form a portion of the central bowl portion  20  ( FIG. 10 b   ). 
     The central sections  102  and  103  form a portion of the bowl area around the lower pelvic area and the muscles that join to the lower pelvis and coccyx. Because the soft tissues of the buttocks typically flow over from sections  102 ,  103 , to the side sections  104  and  105  and front section  101  of the foundation member  12 , as generally indicated in  FIG. 9 , it must be understood that the entire foundation member  12  bears the weight of the seated user. 
     The sections  104  and  105 , which extend along the top of side portions  102  and  103  respectively, form a tension zone extending between the section  101  and the top/rear portion  16  ( FIGS. 5, 8   d ) of the sections  104  and  105 . 
     The regions of the side sections  104  and  105  (i.e., band regions  1 C- 1 ,  1 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 F,  5 F,  5 E,  5 D,  1 D- 2 ,  1 C- 2 ) serve to pull the rear portion  16  forward (i.e., along arrows  104   a  and  105   a  in  FIG. 8 d   ) at the time a user sits on the central sections  102 ,  103 . Further, the underside of the distal thighs of the legs of the user rest on the front portion section  101 . The forward motion of the rear portion  16  serves to assist the outer edges of sections  104  and  105  to move inwardly (i.e., along arrows  104   b  and  105   b  in  FIG. 8 d   ), resulting in a highly desirable compression of the gluteal and piriformis muscles. Accordingly, the sections  104  and  105  cup around the ischial tuberosities of the user so as to form a dome of cupped muscle tissue m ( FIG. 9 ). The gluteal muscles tend to remain in a desirably slack condition. 
       FIG. 10 a    shows a side view of the foundation member  12  in weight bearing position, with a cutting plane G-G about which a cross sectional view is taken as shown in  FIG. 10 b   .  FIG. 10 b    shows in dashed lines the non-weight bearing shape of the foundation member  12 , and shows in solid lines the weight bearing shape of the foundation member  12  when a user&#39;s pelvic region is disposed in the bowl portion  20 , indicating the cupping effect of the weight bearing position of the foundation member  12 . 
       FIGS. 10 e , 10 f    represent cross-sectional views of the foundation member  12  in two different modes or circumstances, with these views being taken at the location of the above-mentioned cutting plane G-G.  FIG. 10 e    shows the configuration of the foundation member  12  (first shape) when it is not bearing the weight of a seated user. In this instance, a characteristic depth of the device is indicated by Y 1 , and the characteristic width is indicated by X 1 .  FIG. 10 f    shows the configuration of the foundation member  12  (secondary shape) when bearing the weight of a seated user.  FIG. 10 f    shows the central portion sections  102  and section  103 , and side/rear sections  104  section  105  of the device  100  assume a more deeply curved configuration when bearing the weight of a user, wherein the new depth of the device, as indicated by Y 2 , exceeds the depth of Y 1  of the device. This results in a volumetric increase of the central portion  20  of the foundation member  12  when it is bearing the user&#39;s weight. 
     By way of example, the depth dimension Y 1  of  10   e  may be about 1.5 inches whereas the depth dimension Y 2  may be up to about 3.00 inches. As another example, the width dimension X 1  may be about 12.75 inches, and the width dimension X 2  in may be as narrow as 10.50 inches. 
       FIG. 10 b    represents a superimposition of  FIGS. 10 e  and 10 f   , emphasizing the inward cupping effect of the upwardly curving side sections  104 ,  105 , which extend along the top of the sections  102  and  103  respectively, forming a type of tension mechanism extending between the front lip-like section  101  and the rear portion  16  of the foundation member  12 . The varying thicknesses of spring leaf like band regions of the side sections  104  and  105  (i.e., regions  1 C- 1 ,  1 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 F,  5 F,  5 E,  5 D,  1 D- 2 ,  1 C- 2 ), serve to pull the rear portion  16  forward at the time a user sits on the sections  102 ,  103 , when under tension by the weight of the seated user. The weight bearing position of the foundation member ( FIG. 10 f   ) clearly indicates that the side sections  104 ,  105 , push inwardly and somewhat upwardly under the weight of the seated user. Whereas, the non-weight bearing position in  FIG. 10 e    shows the side sections  104 ,  105  are actually lower than their position under a seat user weight in  FIG. 10 f   . As such, the downward pressure of body weight does not serve to bend the side sections  104 ,  105  downward. 
       FIG. 8 a    shows a side detailed view of the device  100  and mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation of a user anatomy. The mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representations in  FIG. 8 a    (and other figures) are equivalent to human anatomies shown in other figures, and are used for simplicity and clarity of the figures in showing the device  100  and how it operates. For comparison,  FIGS. 1 e -1 h    show general relationship between the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation and the user anatomy. Specifically,  FIG. 1 e    shows a side view rendering of a user anatomical Kyphotic lumbar spine and pelvis.  FIG. 1 f    shows a side view of an equivalent mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation corresponding to the anatomical Kyphotic lumbar spine and pelvis of  FIG. 1 e   . Approximate angle δ=20° indicates the posterior tilt of the pelvis.  FIG. 1 g    shows a side view rendering of a user anatomical lordotic lumbar spine and pelvis.  FIG. 1 h    shows a side view of the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation corresponding to the anatomical Lordotic lumbar spine and pelvis of  FIG. 1G . Approximate angle β=20° indicates anterior tilt of the pelvis. 
     The illustration in  FIG. 8 a    is equivalent to that in  FIG. 1 c   , and showing in more detail the transitional state with the user touching the device  100 , continuing the act of sitting and continuing transfer of body weight to the device  100 . The example bowl depth D 1  is about 1.5 inches. The illustration in  FIG. 8 b    is equivalent to that in  FIG. 1 d   , and showing in more detail that the device  100  has rotated to its tilted forward, weight bearing position (second position). The approximate angle β=12° indicates forward anterior tilt of the pelvis. The example bowl depth D 2  is up to 3 inches. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 b   , the section  101  bends downward under the pressure of the distal thighs of a user, wherein the section  101  creates a stop at a low where pelvis ischial tuberosities pivots on. As such, the device  100  provides forward lordotic curve stabilization of the pelvis that maintains its interior tilt. The device  100  rotates forward from a non-weight bearing gravity equilibrium point bp 1  ( FIG. 8 a   ) into a weight bearing gravity equilibrium point bp 2  ( FIG. 8 b   ), on the supporting surface  40 . The illustrations in  FIG. 12 c    more clearly shows the position of the device  100  on bp 1 , and weight bearing position of the device  100  on bp 2 . The position of the device  100  on bp 1  corresponds to the illustrations in  FIGS. 1 b  and 1 c   , wherein the device  100  does not yet bear the full weight of the user. In the description herein, the term non-weight bearing indicates the status of the device  100  as in  FIGS. 1 b , 1 c , 8 a   , in its first position on point bp 1 , and the term weight-bearing indicates the status of the device  100  as in  FIGS. 1 d  and 8 b    with the device  100  bearing the full weight of the user in the bowl portion and tilted forward to its second position on point bp 2 . The section  101  and the rear portion of the sections  104 ,  105 , move forward a distance Z. By way of example, the distance Z can range between about 0.50 inches and about 3.50 inches, with about 2.5 inches being typical. The shift between the location of balance point bp 1  and the location of balance point bp 2  as a result of this tilting is represented by the distance Δ and may be, for example, about 2.0 inches to about 2.3 inches average, and up to about 2.50 inches. 
     In  FIG. 8 b   , the device  100  has assumed an incline angle θ to the supporting surface  40  (usually a horizontally disposed surface) as a result of the device  100  bearing the weight of the user. An angle θ of approximately 17° is typical. The forward tilt/rotation of the device  100  on the surface  40  by the incline angle θ creates an essentially optimal pelvic stabilization that maintains an interior tilt. 
     By the action of the sections  104 ,  105 , and the downward curving of the front section  101 , the rear portion  16  of the sections  104 ,  105 , is move forward the distance Z. The shift between the location of balance point bp 1  and the location of balance point bp 2  as a result of this tilting is represented by the distance Δ. 
       FIG. 12 a    shows a top perspective view superimposition of non-weight bearing position of the foundation member of the device  100  (in dashed lines), and weight bearing position of the foundation member  12  (in solid lines). As in  FIGS. 8 b  and 12 c   , the illustration in  FIG. 12 a    indicates forward shift Z in the center of gravity equilibrium bp 1  from the non-weight bearing position to the center of gravity equilibrium bp 1  in the weight bearing position, of the foundation member  12 .  FIG. 12 b    shows a bottom perspective view of the illustration in  FIG. 12   a.    
       FIG. 7 a    shows a side view superimposition of the non-weight bearing position of the device  100  on the point bp 1 , and the weight bearing position (rotated forward) to the point bp 2 .  FIG. 7 b    shows a cross-section view of the device  100  of  FIG. 7 a    at cutting plane through bp 1  ( FIG. 12 a   ), looking from the rear, showing the ischial tuberosities pelvis prior to the user distal thighs pushing down on the front section of the device  100 .  FIG. 7 c    shows a cross-section view of the device  100  of  FIG. 7 c    at cutting plane through bp 2  ( FIG. 12 a   ), looking from the rear, showing the ischial tuberosities pelvis prior to the user distal thighs pushing down on the front section of the device  100 . 
       FIG. 12 c    shows a cross sectional view of the device  100  taken at a location parallel to the centerline A-A of the device  100  ( FIG. 1 a   ), with this view indicating the relationship of the front portion  101  to the rear portion  16  of sections  104 ,  105 .  FIG. 12 c    shows cross-section views of the illustration in  FIG. 12 a    indicating two positions or states of the device  100 . The top illustration in  FIG. 12 c    (corresponding to  FIG. 8 a   ) indicates the first position of the device  100  wherein weight of a user is not being borne by the device  100 , illustrating how that the bowl portion  20  resides on the parent surface  40  in approximately a horizontal attitude. The bottom illustration in  FIG. 12 c    (corresponding to  FIG. 8 b   ) indicates the second position of the device  100  as having been caused to undertake a considerable amount of downward rotation/tilt, indicated by the angle θ. This downward rotation is partly as a result of the weight of the lower pelvis of the user on the sections  102 ,  103  of the bowl portion  20 , and presence of the legs of the user, with the hamstring portions of the distal flies, that is, the underside of the upper thigh portions of the user&#39;s legs, resting on the front, lip-like section  101 , causing a substantial amount of downward curvature. 
       FIG. 12 c    shows the dramatic difference when the device  100  goes from its original non-weight bearing state into its secondary state (secondary shape). This overlay/superimposition exhibits the shift of central balance point from location bp 1  forward to location bp 2 . Also depicted is the back portion  16  shifting forward by distance Z, the bowl portion  20  being shifted forward and the front section  101  bending down and coming in contact with the parent surface  40 . 
       FIG. 9 , taken at approximately at the cutting plane G-G of  FIG. 10 a   , shows the addition of the anatomical details of a typical pelvic area in order to indicate a proportional relationship of the pelvic area to the size of the device  100 . This view, looking from the back of the device  100 , involves the device  100  resting on a hard supporting surface  40 . The positioning of the ischial tuberosities i with respect to the central bowl portion  20  sections  102  and  103  is shown. Also indicated are the positions of the side sections  104 ,  105 , which are almost directly below the hip sockets h. 
     For example,  FIGS. 9, 2   a - h ,  10   c ,  10   d ,  11   b , show the cupping effect upon the lower part of the pelvic area, with this cupping effect not extending to the soft tissues that overhang the periphery of the device  100 . Soft tissues representing the outlines of buttocks of various sizes are denoted by W 1 , W 2  and W 3  in  FIG. 9 . 
       FIGS. 2 a , 2 b    and  9  illustrate anatomical representation of a typical pelvic area and spine, along with the distal thigh bone, clearly indicating the proportional size of the average pelvis to the device  100 . The anatomical illustration in  FIG. 2 a   ,  FIG. 9 , and FIG.  7   a  (in solid lines) indicate the forward tilt that is undertaken by the pelvis when the device  100  has moved into its secondary shape. Also illustrated is the effect of the weight of the upper body when the ischial tuberosities are residing in the center of the bowl portion  20 . This weight does not distort the secondary shape beyond a front lip-like section  101  being bent downward, placing the side sections  104 ,  105  under tension and pulling the upwardly inclined rear portion  16  forward. 
     Also indicated in  FIGS. 8 b , 10 b  and 10 f   , is the increase in depth of the bowl portion  20  of the device  100  (sections  102 ,  103  along with sections  104 ,  105 ) helping to cup and cradle the gluteus muscles directly around the bottom outlet of the pelvis. A constant compression of the gluteal and piriformis muscles such that they cup around the ischial tuberosities is thus advantageously brought about by the device  100 . 
       FIG. 3 c    shows by use of dashed lines, the shifting that takes place at the time weight has been placed upon the foundation member  12 , and downward tilting of the front, lip-like portion section  101 . The shifting of the zone  3  are specifically depicted by a circle made up of dashed lines. The long dashed lines extending along the sides indicate that as a result of the placement of weight of the seated user upon the central portion of the device  100 , the periphery/side edges of sections  104  and section  105  are caused to move inwardly and somewhat upwardly. The side sections  104 ,  105  have moved inwardly rather than outwardly during the application of the user&#39;s weight to the device  100 , this being due to the fact that the under surfaces of the user&#39;s thighs push downwardly on the forward section  101 , which brings about a tensioning of the side sections  104 ,  105 . This tensioning of the side sections  104 ,  105  cause the inward movement of the side sections  104 ,  105 . The varying thicknesses of the sections  102 - 105 , function as a type of a leaf spring, enhancing the inwardly and upwardly cupping action of the sections  104 ,  105 . 
     Preferably, the front lip-like section  101  of the foundation member is constructed to have a specific bend point at the front of the central bowl portion  20 . One implementation involves provide at least one flexible arc or groove  15  thereon ( FIG. 12 c   ). The groove  15  extends across the front section  101 , substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centerline A-A. The groove  15  not only serves to increase the flexibility of the front section  101 , but also serves to cause the device  100  to bend so as to assume the desired secondary shape at the time the undersurface of the user&#39;s distal thighs come into contact with the front, lip-like section  101 . As previously mentioned, the downward bending of the front section  101  acts through the sections  104  and  105  so as to pull the rear portion  16  to move forward. The sections  104  and  105 , which extend along the top of side portions  102  and  103  respectively, form a type of tension member extending between the front section  101  and the rear portion  16  of the device  100 . The side sections  104  and  105  with their spring leaf like band regions (i.e., regions  1 C- 1 ,  1 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 F,  5 F,  5 E,  5 D,  1 D- 2 ,  1 C- 2 ) serve to pull the rear portion  16  forward at the time a user sits on the central bowl section  102  section  103 , with the underside of the distal thighs of the user&#39;s legs resting on the front section  101 . Such forward motion of the rear portion  16  serve to assist the side sections  104  and  105  moving inwardly so as to bring about a highly desirable compression of the gluteal and piriformis muscles such that they cup around the ischial tuberosities so as to form a dome of cupped muscle tissue. 
     The flexible arcs/groove  15  is positioned on the device  100  proximate the point where the section  101  and the sections  102 ,  103  meet. The groove  15  causes bending of the device  100  proximate the groove  15 , in addition to providing flexibility. The groove  15  helps bring about the secondary shape of the device  100  identically each time the device  100  is placed under pressure from the seated user. The arc  15  may be duplicated other places in section  101  ( FIG. 3 c   ). 
     The device  100  may be utilized in a variety of environments, such as on the seat of an automobile; on any item of furniture such as a couch or easy chair; upon a chair with a relatively hard bottom; or even on a hard seat such as to be found in a stadium or the like (e.g.,  FIGS. 2 a -2 h   ). In any of these events, the bowl portion  20  of the foundation member  12  will undertake a degree of downward rotation/tilt with respect to the horizontal in the general manner described above. 
     Although certain illustrations employed in such drawings as  FIGS. 2 a - d , 8 a , 8 b   , have been utilized while the foundation member  12  is residing on a hard surface, it is to be understood that the secondary shape of the device  100  is also obtained while the device  100  is residing upon a resilient or soft surface. This secondary shape in soft surfaces floats down into the foams and fabric of ergonomic chairs and takes on the same secondary shape as if it was on a hard surface. Certain illustrations have been shown on a hard surface because the overhanging soft tissues and the angle of the forward tilt of the foundation member is visually more dramatic. It is most important to keep in mind, however, that the same highly advantageous tilt and cupping action brought about by the device  100  occurs essentially independently of the hardness or softness of the supporting surface. 
     The varying thickness regions of the foundation member  12  ( FIG. 4 a   ), function as leaf spring band like regions with their specific thickness flows allowing transitioning of the additional soft tissues over the edge of the device  100  comfortably without the need for additional padding. Specifically, the five sections  101 - 15  and their varying thickness regions function as a spring leaf structure, wherein with each thickness change is analogous to a separate layer of thickness of the material the device  100  is made of, much like a spring leaf assembly. When the device  100  is placed under weight of a user in the central bowl portion  20 , the downward pressures push down on the leaf spring like assembly of the device  100 . The sections  101 - 105  with their varying thickness regions provide the function of the novel device  100 , compared to devices with constant thickness which depend only upon memory retentive plastics they are made of. 
     The “wings” on the concave channel  110  in sections  102 ,  103  (regions  2 E and  3 E), in the bowl-like pelvic zone  3 , holds the ischial tuberosities pelvic floor that land just outside the concave channel  110 . The serpentine bands like sections  104 ,  105 , which extend along the top of side portions  102  and  1033  respectively, form a type of tension member extending between the front, lip-like portion section  101  and the rear portion  16  of the foundation member  12 . The side sections  104  and  105  along with their spring leaf like band regions ( 1 C- 1 ,  1 D- 1 ,  4 D- 2 ,  4 E,  4 F,  5 F,  5 E, region  1 D- 2 ,  1 C- 2 ) serve to pull the rear portion  16  forward at the time a user sits on the central sections  102 ,  103  with the underside of the distal thighs of the user&#39;s legs resting on the front portion section  101 . Such forward motion of the rear portion  16  serve to assist the side sections  104  and  105  moving inwardly so as to bring about a highly desirable compression of the gluteal and piriformis muscles such that they cup around the ischial tuberosities so as to form a dome of cupped muscle tissue. 
     The relatively thinner regions of the foundation member  12  assist in concert with the rotation, cupping, cradling and torsioning on its longitudinal axis A-A along with the thicker regions in one plane and torsioning on its lateral axis E-E intersecting the longitudinal axis A-A ( FIGS. 3 d , 3 e   ). The lateral axis E-E is proximate the area where the front section  101  meets the bowl portion sections  102 - 105 . The thinner region in section  101  proximate lateral axis E-E allow torsioning in that area. The axis A-A and axis E-E are collectively referred to as axes of the foundation member  12  (and device  100 ), herein. The thicker regions in the concave channel  110  and central pelvic landing zone  3  keep the concave channel  110  and central pelvic landing zone  3  from distorting under the pressure from user&#39;s lower pelvic region, wherein said rotation, cupping, cradling and torsioning on the axes of the foundation member is not impeded. 
     The regions surrounding the central pelvic landing zone  3  and the concave channel  110  in sections  102  and  103 , are relatively thinner, moving toward the outside edges. Then the foundation member is thicker again sections  104 ,  105 , providing the tension members/regions that provide improved forward rotation and the upward cupping by the device  100 . 
       FIG. 10 c    shows a rear view of a weight bearing position of the device  100 , with an anatomical illustration, wherein arrows indicate the cupping and cradling of the gluteus muscles that place inward pressure on the lower wings of the pelvis ischial tuberosities, by the bowl portion  20 .  FIG. 10D  shows a rear view of the weight bearing position of the device  100 , on a soft supporting surface  40   a , wherein the bowl portion  20  of the device  100  maintains the cupping and cradling of the gluteus muscles even when the user leans sideways. 
       FIG. 11 a    shows a user seated on a seating surface without the seat apparatus of the invention, with the arrows indicating improper distribution of pressure.  FIG. 11 b    shows a review of the device  100  in weight bearing position, with a user seated thereon, with arrows indicating proper distribution of pressure cupping and cradling of sections  1020 - 105  of the device  100 . 
     Further, the device  100  torsions on its axes under twisting of the user weight in the bowl portion  20 . The forward rotation of the device  100  tilts the user&#39;s pelvis into a forward lordosis, cupping, cradling effect regardless of how the user&#39;s upper or lower body twists or moves while the user remains seated on the device  100  (described further below). 
     The sections  101 - 105  of the device  100  with their varying thickness regions provide the cupping and cradling of a seated user into a wide range of the human the population. The device  100  in conjunction with a user sitting in the bowl portion  20 , tilts, cups, cradles and torsions on its axes for continually applying dynamic support to stabilize the pelvis of a user, holding the pelvis in a correct Lordotic curve through a wide range of motion of a sitting human, and holding the user in a constant, perpetuating system. This is described further in relation to the flowchart in  FIG. 19  showing a flowchart of a process  300  for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading for a human user, according to an embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment the process utilizes said device  100 . 
     Generally, the device  100  is useful for a human user (e.g., male, female) capable of standing and walking, and having typical gluteus muscles of the buttocks. The device  100  is placed on a support surface (i.e., sitting surface) may be of any desired choice capable of supporting the device  100  for sitting thereon (e.g., office chair, vehicle seat, fixed bench, reclining easy seat, reclining office chair, reclining aircraft seat). 
     Step  301 : Place seating device  100  with varying thickness sections for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading, on a support surface. In one implementation, the device  100  is portable for carrying from seat to seat, for use in any sitting situation from home, car, plane and office. The portable device comprises said at least five sections  101 - 105 . In another embodiment, an optional section  106  attachment forms a backrest, but is not integral.  FIG. 4 b    shows an aerial top view of the foundation member  12  (similar to  FIG. 4 a   ) with an optional back section  106  including a thickness region  6 D. 
     Step  302 : User sits on the device  100  from a standing position, involving user changing their posture from a standing position to a seated position by sitting on the device  100 . 
     Step  303 : Distal thighs of the user first come in contact with the front lip like section  101  of the device  100 , push down on the front section  101  of the device  100 . The Distal thighs hold the section  101  down against the support surface below it. One or both thighs can hold down section  101 , wherein the device  100  will stay pressed down by the distal thighs. As portions  102 ,  103 ,  104  and  1055  are filled with the buttocks of the user, the device  100  becomes filled to overflowing with gluteus muscles and soft tissues until finally the sitting bones of the pelvis are above the center of sections  102  and  103  ( FIGS. 8   b,  9). 
     Step  304 : The device  100  tilts forward ( FIG. 8 b   ), providing a lift tilting effect. Lift tilting is the effect of achieving an upright posture by stabilizing the sacral pelvic area of the back to sustain a forward pelvic tilt. Conventionally, achieving an upright posture is achieved by the action of the backrest of a chair using a lumbar support that pushes against the sacrum and the iliac crest of the pelvis. Further, the user must sit up against the back rest or lumbar support for achieving an upright posture. However, such conventional backrest and lumbar support does not provide a lift tilting effect according to the invention. 
     According to an embodiment of the invention, the device  100  provides a lift tilting effect as the device  100  rotates forward creating a typical incline angle θ of as high as about 17° ( FIG. 8 b   ). This incline lifts the entire pelvis upward and forward at the same time. Because the pelvis is being cupped in the central bowl portion  20  of the device  100 , the incline is more than just an angle the pelvis is being rotated forward from its Ischia and sacrum. The lifting tilt of the device  100  causes the ischial tuberosities to slide forward until they are stopped by an incline  111  ( FIG. 8 c   ) on the front edge of the bowl portion  20 , stopping atop the center of gravity balance equilibrium point bp 2  ( FIG. 8 b   ). The incline  111  of the bowl portion  20  impedes forward motion of ischial tuberosities in the pelvic area and causing user&#39;s lower pelvic area to pivot forward into a forward lordotic position in the second position of the bowl portion  20  on a center of gravity balance equilibrium point on the supporting surface, thereby maintaining ischial tuberosities atop said center of gravity balance equilibrium point in response to user motion while the lower pelvic area is in the bowl portion. 
       FIG. 8 c    shows a side view of the foundation member  12  of  FIG. 8 b    without mechanical robot anatomical skeleton, showing shifted center of gravity equilibrium point due to tilt/rotation of the foundation member  12  in a weight bearing position, and a central section incline.  FIG. 8 c    also shows bending down of the front portion  101 . Lift tilting by the device  100  does not require leaning up and against a backrest or against a lumbar support. Lift tilting by the device  100  occurs when the user sits thereon, wherein the device continues to actively adapt to the individual no matter how the body moves or twists or if the legs are uneven to the floor. The user&#39;s legs could be crossed and still the lifting tilt is provided by the device  100 . The upper body can be leaning in any direction and lifting tilt is provided by the device  100 . The device  100  provides lift tilting in a perpetuating process involving the user and the device  100 , without requiring the user to sit in a specific way in a typical chair to be effective. 
     Step  305 : As the user continues the sitting process into the central bowl portion  20 , the device  100  is filled in with the lower pelvic region of the seated user ( FIG. 9 ). This includes the ischial tuberosities of the lower pelvis and their connected gluteus and piriformis muscles, skin and in any clothing of the buttocks region. When the apparatus is filled any additional muscle and soft tissue will flow over the edges on to the seating surface. 
     Step  306 : The side/rear sections  104  and  105  move inward and upward so as to cup around the lower pelvic region of the seated user and hold the muscles and soft tissues of the user in the desired position and form, wherein the gluteus muscles replace the usually used foam, flexible mesh, feathers or other cushion type padding on conventional sitting surfaces. The device  100  causes slacking of the gluteus muscles which become an active participant with the device  100  when the gluteus muscles and soft tissues are cupped from their perimeter by sections  104  and  105 . The muscle tissues as manipulated by the device  100  only provide a pressure point reducing source. 
     The cupping effect of sections  104  and  105 , and tilting of the pelvis into the tipped and upright position by the action of the concave channel  101  when the device  100  rotates forward ( FIG. 8 b   ), holds the gluteus muscles in slack form. The slack gluteus muscles dramatically reduce the tightening required in other muscles and ligaments used to hold the back erect when sitting. 
     Gluteus muscles and soft tissues are formed and held constant under and around the ischial tuberosities by the cupping of sections  104 ,  105 . Where the Ischial tuberosities would normally press downward into a sitting surface, the weight bearing device  100  causes the ischial tuberosities to be held by the slack gluteus muscles on the bowl portion  20 . 
     Step  307 : As the user sits on the device  100 , the user&#39;s body weight moves with gravity toward the support surface under the device  100  as the user&#39;s center of gravity changes from the standing position to the seated position (i.e., from over user feet and entire body, to being over the pelvis and distal thighs). 
     Step  308 : Under user weight, the device  100  cradles the pelvic area. As the body weight pushes downward on the device  100 , said cupping of sections  104 ,  105  around the base of the pelvis stabilizes and restricts the spreading of the lower pelvis, keeping it from spreading apart such that the six component bones of the pelvis can work fluidly as one unit. As such, building of pressure on the lumbar-sacral joint is restricted, thus minimizing wear and tear on the sacral joints. While being supported in the cradled position ( FIG. 8 b   ), the pelvis can articulate and move with the user movement while the user remains seated and move and twists. 
     Step  309 : Pelvis rotates pivoting on front of Cradle. The cradle comprises the entire sections  102 - 105 , once the bowl portion is in the second position and all the body weight and pelvic alignment has occurred (i.e., cupping effect). The cradling is maintained by sections  102 - 105 , in a continual manner no matter how the sitter moves. In one embodiment, the front of the cradle comprises about a 3° to 7° incline area  111  in regions of the sections  102 ,  103 , along with regions of the sections  104 ,  105 , proximate the width of section  101 . Action of gravity continues to pull the user body weight downward into central bowl portion  20  of the device  100 , wherein the bottom of the pelvis is tipped on a pivot and rotated forward by the front edge of the cradle. The rotation is stopped by said upward incline  111  ( FIG. 8 b   ) of sections  102  and  103  where the meet section  101 . In another embodiment, said incline  111  of sections  102  and  103  has an angle α of about 5° to 9°, preferably 7°, from a horizontal support surface in one example, which is sufficient to stop the forward movement of the ischia. When the ischia can no longer slide forward, the top of the pelvis pivots forward bringing about a chain like spine. The spine being a closed kinematic chain must follow the pelvic tilt. Although floating in a layer of cupped muscle tissue, the pelvic pivoting is maintained by the device  100  in response to the weight of the upper body. By using the energy created by gravity of the body weight, the device  100  provides a continual perpetuating process for correcting posture and restricting gluteal spreading that turns the upper body weight from a negative effect into a positive effect on the posture and gluteal spreading. 
     Step  310 : The device  100  stabilizes pelvis and maintains anterior pelvic tilt. Rotation of the pelvis on the front of said cradle stops at a point of equilibrium balance point bp 2 . ( FIGS. 8 b , 12 a , 12 b   ). The tilting lift causes the ischial tuberosities to slide forward until they are stopped by the upward curve/incline  111  of the central bowl area sections  102  and  103 . Said incline  111  of sections  102  and  103 , stops the ischial tuberosities from their forward movement forcing the top of the pelvis to pitch forward. This pelvic forward rotation is maintained by the weight of the upper body. The center of gravity balance equilibrium point bp 2  and the kinematic chain effect of the spine (properly aligned and balanced) are all maintained by the torsion of the device  100  on its axes. 
     When the spine is properly aligned and balanced, the thoracic region has a Kyphotic curve. The cervical and lumbar spine region has a Lordotic curve. Together these curves provide an “S” shaped preferred posture ( FIGS. 1 d , 16 a , 16 b , 16 c   ) which the device  100  provides according to the invention. The present invention provides postural alignment using the natural equilibrium of the body without the seated user having to lean back against a backrest. 
     The device  100  interacts with the user&#39;s distal thighs to initiate a postural alignment process. Once the device is in its weight bearing (dynamic) position, the user&#39;s distal thighs remain horizontal or above horizontal, enabling the feet to remain flat on the ground throughout the postural range. Further, because the distal thighs push down the front lip section  101 , the sections  104  and  105  cup and forward rotation of the device  100  by the angle θ ( FIG. 8 b   ), which lifts the pelvis, providing a preferred angle relationship. The preferred angle relation involves the knees being lower than the hip joint. This in turn transfers (distributes) a portion of the upper body weight away from initial tuberosities onto the distal thighs, sharing body weight pressure over a larger area. 
     Step  311 : The spine is Lordotic and is controlled by the position of the pelvis. When the pelvis is rotated forward, the lumbar spine automatically creates a forward Lordotic curve. The inventor has found the unexpected result that use of the spine as a closed kinetic chain helps contribute to better posture and more comfort while sitting. 
     In the weight bearing position, the cupping and rotating effect of the device  100  move the pelvis into a forward position that influences the spine ( FIG. 2 a   ), wherein the spine follows the pelvis until it cannot fall any more forward wherein the front of the user anatomy (ribs, diaphragm, etc.) stops the spine from continuing to fall or fold. At that point, the spine is in a balanced position of “Neutral Posture” that requires the least amount of strain to hold it erect. The device  100  causes a cradled pelvis to induce the preferred “S” shape posture in a balanced postural equilibrium bp 2 , natural alignment throughout the full range of postures. 
     Step  312 : In the weight bearing position, the center of gravity balance point of the device  100  shifts forward from bp 1  to bp 2  ( FIGS. 8 b , 12 a , 12 b   ). The balance (pivot) point is located just underneath the center of gravity point bp 2  on the bottom side of the apparatus. In this position of the device  100 , the pelvis is held in an upright neutral posture and balanced position. Upper body weight is shifted into a ring-like pelvis. Because a unique Lordotic curve has been achieved, the center of gravity shifts forward away from the sacrum and onto the tips of the ischial tuberosities. Once the center of gravity balance point is achieved the natural equilibrium of the user&#39;s spine and pelvis can be achieved and maintained. The inventor has determined that this natural equilibrium for each user is unique and is initiated by the device  100  by controlling the pelvis which in turn controls the chain-like lumbar spine thoracic spine and cervical spine. 
       FIG. 13 b    illustrates a bottom view of actual pressure map of a user seated on a conventional seat such as a chair, indicating multiple high-pressure marks from the ischial tuberosities while in an upright position. Darker regions indicate higher-pressure marks.  FIG. 13 a    illustrates a bottom view of an actual pressure map on a user seated on an embodiment of the device  100 , wherein  FIG. 13 a    indicating far fewer high-pressure marks from the ischial tuberosities than in  FIG. 13 a   , while in an upright position when the weight bearing device  100  tilts/rotates forward, and cups and cradles the pelvis area, while floating the pelvis in muscle tissue. Further,  FIG. 13 a    shows the center of gravity of the user, indicated by a checkered diamond shape, shifting forward (toward the bottom of the drawing sheet) using the device  100  compared to a conventional seat. 
     Step  313 : The upper body weight transfers to the device  100  to become an exoskeleton shell. Specifically, with the pelvis cradled and held in the center of gravity balance equilibrium point posture ( FIG. 2 a , 8 b   ) by the weight bearing device  100 , the upper body weight moves down through the pelvis, then through the soft tissues of the gluteus and distributes essentially evenly into the sections  101 - 105  of the device  100 . Because the soft tissues and muscles of the gluteus fill the central bowl portion  20  of the device  100  ( FIG. 9 ) and sections  104 ,  105  cup upward ( FIGS. 8 b , 8 c   ), the device  100  becomes an exoskeleton shell for said muscles and soft tissues around the ischial tuberosities. 
     Step  314 : The device  100  transfers weight and pressure into the supporting surface under the device  100 . Specifically, functioning as an active orthotic area of the supporting surface (e.g., seat pan), the device  100  distributes the weight and pressure from the user weight onto the supporting surface. The supporting surface now carries the greatest pressures, not the surface of the seated user skin. The function of transferring upper body weight and pressure into supporting surface by the weight bearing device  100  provides the exoskeleton attributes. Once the gluteus soft tissues have been cupped by sections  104  and  105 , the pelvis is cradled by the sections  104  and  105 , and rotated forward for stabilization on the center of gravity point bp 2  ( FIG. 8 a   - 1 ) as described. Upon such stabilization, essentially all body weight of the sitting user is transferred from the bones through the soft tissues and into the weight bearing device  100 . The central bowl portion of the device  100  distributes that weight evenly onto the supporting surface  40 . When the seated user body moves, the device  100  maintains user weight distribution through said exoskeleton shell effect. 
     Step  315 : As the seated user body moves (e.g., such as twisting while working on a desk top), the device  100  adapts to changed body position of the user. 
     Step  316 : As the seated user moves, the device  100  torsions on its axes ( FIGS. 2 c , 2 d , 12 e , 12 g   ) to maintain its cradling position. The device  100  continually applies support by torsion on its axes, maintaining constant dynamic pelvic support. The device  100  essentially constantly adjusts and maintains several simultaneous mechanical functions of tilting/rotating forward, cupping and cradling the pelvis area, while floating the pelvis in muscle tissue. 
       FIG. 3 d    is similar to  FIG. 3 c   , and shows by use of dashed lines, the shifting that takes place at the time weight has been placed upon the foundation member  12 , and downward tilting of the front, lip-like portion section  101 , and further torsion of the foundation member on its axes when a seated user twists to the right (e.g.,  FIGS. 16 a -16 c   ). The sections  104 ,  105  dynamically move forward following the pelvis sacrum to maintain pressure therein.  FIGS. 12 f  and 12 g    show corresponding side and back views, respectively, of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 3 d    torsioning along its axes, with superimposition of the weight bearing position of the device  100  in solid lines, and torsioning of the weight bearing position of the device  100  in dashed lines due to rotation of the upper body of a seated user to the right. 
       FIG. 3 e    is also similar to  FIG. 3 c   , and shows by use of dashed lines, the shifting that takes place at the time weight has been placed upon the foundation member  12 , and downward tilting of the front, lip-like portion section  101 , and further torsion of the foundation member on its axes when a seated user twists to the left.  FIGS. 12 d  and 12 e    show corresponding side and back views, respectively, of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 3 e   , with superimposition of the weight bearing position of the device  100  in solid lines, and torsioning of the weight bearing position of the device  100  in dashed lines due to rotation of the upper body of a seated user to the left. 
     The device  100  continually applies support by torsion on its axes along the length of the concave channel  110 . Regardless of the type of the upper body twisting and motion of the user, the device  100  responds to the user body position by torsion on its axes to apply dynamic support in stabilizing and holding the pelvis in proper lordotic curve. Regardless of the lean of the pelvis as the seated user moves/twists, the device  100  torsions in response to adjust on its axes to maintain the dynamic support in stabilizing the pelvis.  FIGS. 2 c , 2 d   , show how the lower body twists and the upper body spine twists and how the torsion along its axes reacts to the twisting movement of the user. 
       FIG. 14 a    through  FIG. 14 i    show different perspective views of the device  100  in weight bearing positions under weight of a seated user, indicated by a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation, illustrating the effect of a twisting of spine and various load positions due to movement of the seated user in the course of natural sitting over a period of time. 
     With the user&#39;s lower pelvic area disposed in the bowl portion, twisting movement of the user while sitting causes torsion of the foundation member  12  along its axes which causes torsioning of the rear segment  16  of the bowl portion  20  such that said upward and inward motion of the upper edges of the segments  104 ,  105  of the bowl portion  20  follows twisting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area. As shown in  FIGS. 16 a -16 c   , the segments  104  and  105  continue applying an upwardly and inwardly compressive force to cause a forward rotational tilting of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into a lordotic position, while maintaining the bowl portion in said second position. 
     The process steps  310 - 316  are repeated as long as the user remains seated on the device  100  and moves/twists, providing a perpetuating system. When the user body moves or shifts, the cradling effect is adjusted as the device  100  torsions on its axes in response to the user motion. Essentially, the cradling effect of the device  100  “resets” as the seated user naturally moves, maintaining the seated user in a constant, perpetuating correct posture and restricting gluteal spreading. Because a proper Lordotic curve specific to the seated user is achieved by the device  100 , the user center of gravity shifts forward away from the sacrum and onto the tips of the ischial tuberosities. Once the center of gravity balance point is achieved, the user&#39;s natural equilibrium is achieved and maintained. Achieving this natural equilibrium for each user utilizing the device  100  is unique, and results in the device  100  controlling the pelvis which in turn controls the chain-like lumbar spine, thoracic spine, and cervical spine. Action of said sections  101 - 105  according to the process  300  may be implemented by other materials or structures that will respond and adapt to the user shape. 
     The device  100  functions as an exoskeleton shell in the weight-bearing position by providing said cupping, cradling, and orthotic floating. Because muscle tissue is 70% water and fat tissue is 35% water, the skin acts much like a latex balloon filled with water. The bowl portion  20  allows the muscles of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area to distribute pressure from the user&#39;s weight evenly into the bowl portion  20 . When disposed in the bowl portion  20 , the muscles of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area fill the bowl portion and the ischial tuberosities push the muscle and soft tissues of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area into bowl portion  20 . As the muscle and soft tissues of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area fill the bowl portion  20  of the device  100  and the ischial tuberosities are suspended in the muscle tissue, the user&#39;s upper body weight is transferred through muscle tissues and into the skin. The skin transfers the pressure into the device  100 . Thus the device  100  becomes an exoskeleton shell. The exoskeleton shell is disposed on the supporting surface ( 40  or  40   a ), wherein the inner surface of the device  100  receives all the pressure of the upper body of the user, and transfers the pressures against the supporting surface. At the same time, suspended in the muscle tissue by the bowl portion of the device  100 , the pelvis floats stabilized and cradled. The pelvis is able to articulate while being held in a forward lordosis by the device  100 . Unlike conventional reclined tilting seats, the device  100  provides an upright posture without the negative side effects of increased pressure points under the ischial tuberosities. 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the foundation member  12  is a one piece member molded from memory retentive material such a nylon plastic with varying thickness regions as shown by example in  FIG. 4 a   . The depiction in  FIG. 4 a    also shows the relative scale of the various regions in relation to one another, where the retentive material essentially gradually changes in thickness from one region to another. Each of the sections  101  through  105  shows a grouping of the regions of which it is made of as shown in  FIG. 4 a   , wherein there is no physical separation between the sections  101 - 105 . 
     In another embodiment of the invention ( FIGS. 6 a -6 p   ), the sections  101 - 105  are individual sections and are connected together by a connecting mechanism such as membranes, cabling, hinges, linkages, etc.  FIG. 6 a    shows an aerial top view of the sections  101 - 105  of the foundation member  12 , and  FIG. 6 b    illustrates a perspective view of the sections  101 - 105 , revealing an example connection mechanism comprised of a membrane  17  to which the sections  101 - 105  are attached. The connection membrane  17  can be in the shape of a continuous membrane as shown, or multiple membrane sections corresponding to sections  101 - 106  for connecting the peripheries of the sections  101 - 105  together. 
     In another embodiment, the present invention provides an integrated system comprising said sections  101 - 105  (and optionally  106 ) of the device  100  in a seat (e.g., car seat, plane seat, office sect). Such an integrated system comprises a foundation that can be made from a wide variety of materials, including foams, plastics, air bladders, and other materials. The physical makeup of the component materials (e.g., with varying thickness ranges) according to the invention, allows the sections  101 - 106  ( FIGS. 6 a -6 p   ) to induce physical change to a seated user gluteus form as described according to the process  300  herein. The sections  101 - 106  of the foundation member  12  work together according to the process  300 . In addition to nylon, other materials such as biomechanical devices that react to computerized data and have behavioral ability according to the process  300  may be used for the sections  101 - 106 . In the integrated system, the individual sections  101 - 106  can move apart, move in different angles, and/or partially slide over one another to decrease the size of the overall apparatus as shown by examples in  FIGS. 6 c -6 i , and 6 j -6 p   , further below. Action of said individual sections  101 - 105  according to the process  300  may be implemented by other materials which may have embedded intelligence and or information inherent in the materials themselves, that will respond and adapt to each user&#39;s unique requirements. The embedded intelligence and or information materials do not require computerization to adapt to the user according to the process  300 . However, computerization using sensors, actuators, and controllers may be implemented (e.g.,  FIG. 6 m   ). 
       FIGS. 6 c -6 i    represent example integrated seat pan configurations of individual sections  101 - 105  that can be used to optimize the movement of the sections  101 - 105  while built into a secondary seat pan, such an office seat, car seat, etc. The sections  101 - 105  are held in place by a backing (not shown) which may be braided together or have backing similar to the membrane  17  in  FIG. 6 b   .  FIG. 6 c    shows a perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  in integrated seat pan configuration, with arrows illustrating movement of the sections  101 - 105  in transition from a non-weight bearing shape to a weight bearing shape, described above. This articulation is for a larger configuration.  FIG. 6 d    shows a slightly turned perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  in a secondary, weight bearing shape. This articulation is for an increased upward and inward configuration. The gaps between the sections are the result of the backing in the secondary seat pan stretching under user weight. In one example, a molded screen-like member backing for sections  101 - 105  allows greater flexibility between the sections  101 - 105 . 
       FIG. 6 e    shows another perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  in a weight bearing secondary shape.  FIG. 6 f    shows a perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  having transitioned to a weight bearing (secondary) shape.  FIG. 6 g    shows a perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  in a non-weight bearing shape, indicating overlapping of sections  104 ,  105  and overlapping of central sections  102 ,  103 . This articulation adjustment is for a smaller configuration.  FIG. 6 h    shows a slightly turned perspective view of the sections  101 - 105  in a non-weight bearing state.  FIG. 6 i    shows a front perspective view of the sections  101 - 105 , showing partially overlapping sections  101 - 105  in a non-weight bearing position. In the weight bearing position, the secondary shape is achieved by sections  101 - 105 , and a fully forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIGS. 6 j -6 p    show another example of the integrated seat pan configuration involving the individual sections  101 - 106 , along with attachment points (indicated by cone shapes  19 ), wherein the attachment points illustrate where the sections  101 - 106  may be attached to a support environment for manipulating the sections of the seating apparatus, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 6 j    shows a bottom perspective view of the sections  101 - 106  in a non-weight bearing shape, with attachment points  19  where the sections  101 - 106  may be attached to a support environment for manipulating the sections  101 - 106 .  FIG. 6 k    shows a bottom perspective view of the sections  101 - 106  of  FIG. 6 j    in a weight bearing shape.  FIG. 6 l    shows a bottom perspective view of the sections  101 - 105 , in a weight bearing shape.  FIG. 6 m    shows a bottom aerial view of the sections  101 - 106  in a non-weight bearing shape. Said manipulation may be active such as using a pressure sensor  19   a  which senses pressure on a plurality of the attachment points  19 , an electronic controller  19   b  that processes the sensed pressure information and sends control signals to an actuator  19   c  (e.g., placed proximate points  19 ) to move the sections  101 - 106  until the secondary shape is achieved and a fully forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
       FIG. 6 n    shows a right side view of the sections  101 - 106  of  FIG. 6 j   , with a mechanical robot anatomical skeleton representation of a user in the act of sitting, approaching the sections  101 - 106 .  FIG. 6 o    shows a right side view of the sections  101 - 106  of  FIG. 6 n   , with the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton touching at least the bowl portion.  FIG. 6 p    shows a right side view of the sections  101 - 106  of  FIG. 6 o    with the mechanical robot anatomical skeleton filling the bowl portion, with the underside of the upper legs pressing down on section  101 , until the secondary shape is achieved and a full forward lordosis of the pelvis and spine is achieved, according to an embodiment of the invention. 
     In another embodiment, the device  100  may be component of a dual seat pan, to induce skeletal alignment and muscle form while the supporting surface (sub seat pan) is to hold the soft tissue structures of the buttocks and distal thighs. Information about average pelvic floor sizes of men and women is utilized. The diameters of the outlet of the pelvis include anteroposterior and transverse. The anteroposterior extends from the tip of the coccyx to the lower part of the symphysis pubis, with an average measurement of about 3.25 inches in males and about 5 inches in females. The anteroposterior diameter varies with the length of the coccyx, and is capable of increase diminution, on account of the mobility of that bone. The transverse extends from the posterior part of the ischial tuberosities to the same point on the opposite side, with the average measurement of about 3.25 inches in males and about 4.75 inches in females. These measurements are essentially regardless of height, weight, and race over the population. Given the average pelvic measurements, the device  100  provided by the invention is suitable for at least a 95% range of the adult population. The coccyx cup area  110   a  of the channel  110  ( FIG. 3 a   ) allows for variable coccyx angles so as to keep the surface of the device  100  from coming in contact with the lower sacral joints and coccyx. 
     The device  100  is placed on (or may be integrated into) a conventional seating surface  40   a  to create a dual seat pan. With the addition of a secondary seat pan  40   a , an active (i.e., non-static) seating system is provided, comprising individual sections  101 - 105  (active seat pan) on a non-active conventional seat pan  40   a , combined together. The seat pan  40   a  is designed based on the skeletal and muscle structure while the device  100  seat pan provides support for soft tissue structures of the buttocks and thighs. Combining said sections  101 - 105  (and optionally section  106 ) of the device  100  together on top of a conventional seat pan  40   a  provides a cooperative system when the user&#39;s body weight is placed on the device  100  and the seat pan  40   a . The process  300  applies to the dual seat pan system. 
     As noted, in a preferred embodiment of the invention ( FIGS. 1 a -1 d , 2 a -2 h , 3 a -3 f , 4 a -4 c   ,  5 ,  7   a - 7   c ,  8   a - 8   d ,  9 ,  10   a - 10   f ,  11   b ,  12   a - 12   f ,  14   a - 14   i ,  15 ,  16   a - 16   c ,  17   a - 17   b ,  18   a - 18   n ), the foundation member  12  is a one piece member molded from memory retentive material such a nylon plastic with the varying thickness regions as shown by example in  FIG. 4 a   . The depiction in  FIG. 4 a    also shows the relative scale of the various regions of the foundation member  12  in relation to one another, where the memory retentive material essentially gradually changes in thickness from one region to another region. Each of the sections  101  through  105  shows a grouping of the regions of which it is made of ( FIGS. 4 a -4 b   ), wherein there is no physical separation between the sections  101 - 105 . 
     According to said preferred embodiment, the device  100  further includes a padding layer  13  shown in  FIG. 15 . The padding layer  13  comprises foam attached to the top of the foundation member  12 . The foam thickness is contoured as to not negatively affect the function of the foundation member. The top illustration in  FIG. 15  shows an aerial view of the top surface of the device  100  showing a foam pattern on the sections  101 - 105  (shown in dashed lines).  FIG. 15  further shows cross-sections of the device  100  along planes P-P, Q-Q, R-R and S-S. The cross-sections show the foundation member  12  (not drawn to scale in terms of thickness). The thickness of the different regions of the foundation member  12  in cross-section P-P are shown by lettering A, B, E, F as applicable corresponding to the thickness legend in  FIG. 4 a   . The thickness of the foam  13  in cross-section P-P is indicated as T 1  (e.g., about 4 mm thick), T 2  (e.g., about 10 mm thick), T 3  (e.g., about 12 mm thick). The foam  13  is thicker than the one piece foundation member  12  to enhance the effect of stopping the forward-sliding ischium tip from riding up said incline  111 , and to enhance rotation of the pelvis forward by stopping the bottom of the ischium tip on said incline  111 , thereby enhancing forward rotation of the pelvis via the bowl portion  20 . The foam is thinnest in the rear landing zone  3  so as to not keep the bowl portion  20  in sections  102 - 105 , from filling up with muscles of the user&#39;s lower pelvic region. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the foundation member  12  is preferably molded from memory retentive materials such a nylon plastic (e.g., Nylon 6, 6) that is able to maintain its memory and flexibility over a wide range of temperatures. Even though sections  101 - 105  are molded in one piece, thickness difference in the regions in  FIG. 4 a   , generally change along the peripheries of the regions in  FIG. 4 a   , providing a desired response in the reaction to the weight of the user. 
     The plastic used for the regions of the sections  101 - 106  is preferably able to withstand the heat necessary to form and mold EVA, PU and MDI Foam. The heat required to mold Polyurethane Foams, Polyester fabric and to weld the fabric is about 218° F. to 285° F. Although the novel foundation member  12  in accordance with the invention is able to assume an advantageous secondary shape or configuration when bearing 90 or more pounds, there is a strong tendency for the foundation member  12  made of this particular plastic to return to its original configuration when weight is removed, which is an important feature of the invention. Other materials exhibiting such characteristics may also be used. 
     Ventilation holes V ( FIG. 3 a   ) are not required for the device  100 , but assist with breathability and with thermal comfort. The ventilation hole pattern helps the surface to breathe, providing comfort and allowing conduction of heat and dispersion of moisture away from the surface of the user skin. Thermal comfort should not be posture dependent, thus the device  100  includes a preferred pattern of ventilation holes in  FIG. 3   a.    
     In the preferred embodiment, the foundation member  12  comprises varying thickness regions of nylon in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the foundation member  12  (i.e., perpendicular to drawing sheet of  FIG. 4 a   ). Because such nylon has a specific flexibility and memory that allows it to go from an original shape to a secondary shape, the varying thickness regions enhance the secondary shape adding to the dynamic reaction of the device  100 . The varying thickness regions have specific desired effects on the secondary, weight-bearing, shape of the device  100 , acting to return the weight bearing shape back to the non-weight bearing shape, causing a dynamic reaction to maintain tilting/rotating forward, cupping and cradling the pelvis area, while floating the pelvis in muscle tissue. Further, the device  100  with the example dimensions and thickness regions provided herein is suitable for a wide range of the population. The device  100  deals directly with pelvic floor measurements and the sub seat pan  40   a  deals with the anthropomorphic measurements. Based on anatomical databases for humans, the dual seat pan system of the invention is suitable for the majority, not all of the human population. 
     An example manufacturing process for the preferred embodiment of the device  100  ( FIGS. 1 a -1 d , 2 a -2 h , 3 a -3 f , 4 a -4 c   ,  5 ,  7   a - 7   c ,  8   a - 8   d ,  9 ,  10   a - 10   f ,  11   b ,  12   a - 12   f ,  14   a - 14   i ,  15 ,  16   a - 16   c ,  17   a - 17   b ,  18   a - 18   n ) involves two molding processes. The first mold comprises a thermoplastic and thermosetting polymer injection mold for the foundation member  12 . The first mold allows injection molding a specific nylon plastic (Nylon 6, 6). During the injection of the nylon plastic, a bidirectional polyester microfiber fabric can be placed inside the mold so as to be molded simultaneously with the nylon foundation. Thus, the nylon foundation and its bottom side fabric are molded together. The nylon foundation member with a bidirectional polyester fabric bottom surface is then placed into a match metal thermoforming mold with a cutting die component. The match metal thermoforming mold performs several simultaneous functions. First, the match metal thermoforming mold forms a Polyurethane Foam  13  and polyester microfiber into a specified, formed, and molded shape. Second, the match metal thermoforming mold “welds” the bidirectional polyester fabric  13  while, cutting the polyurethane foam  13  and polyester fabric in specific areas shown by example in  FIG. 15 . 
     The process depends on the flexible moldable plastic foundation being able to withstand the heat necessary to form and mold the EVA, PU and MDI Foam  13  (described further below). The heat required to mold the Polyurethane Foams, Polyester fabric and weld the fabric is 218° F. to 285° F. All thermoplastic and thermosetting polymers have a melting point at similar temperatures at which the EVA, PU and MDI Foams  13  are molded. This creates a specific need for the foundation polymer that does not melt under the heat and pressure required by the EVA, PU and MDI Foam  13  and polyester fabric to be able to be press molded, die cut and welded together. The Nylon 6, 6 can withstand the heat and still be an injectable polymer 12. 
     Although the nylon can withstand said heat molding process, it cannot do so and be sufficiently flexible to function properly. As such, it must be steam heated to regain a specific flexibility after it has gone through the molding process. The invention discloses the ability to have an injectable Nylon 12 with specific flexibility and memory retentive characteristics without melting at the same temperatures as the foams and fabrics  13  that surround the nylon foundation member  12 . This involves a Nylon 6, 6 make-up and steam heating to regain a specific flexibility. 
     Another aspect of the process involves ventilation holes V cut on the interior areas of the device  100 , while still allowing the polyester fabric and EVA, PU and MDI Foam  13  to be welded together. These holes in various shapes and sizes and locations across the device  100  (without flat surfaces to match the metal die), must not only be formed to create the proper shape for molding the foam  13 , but also must meet the bottom surface of the mold in such an exact fashion as to not to dull the cutting die blade, such that touch, heat and pressure can weld the two sides of fabric together and cut at a precise point. 
     In one example, the device  100  has a nylon foundation member  12  comprising synthetic polymers known generically as polyamides. Subsequently, polyamides 6, 10, 11, and 12, are developed based on monomers which are ring compounds (e.g., Caprolactam nylon 6, 6 is a material manufactured by condensation polymerization). EVA foam comprising ethylene vinyl acetate (also known as EVA) is the copolymer of ethylene and vinyl. PU polyurethane foam  13  on the foundation member  12  includes polyurethane formulations that cover a wide range of stiffness, hardness, and densities. A polyurethane substance, IUPAC (PUR or PU), is any polymer comprising a chain of organic units joined by urethane (carbamate) links. Polyurethane polymers are formed through step-growth polymerization by reacting a monomer containing at least two isocyanate functional groups with another monomer containing at least two hydroxyl (alcohol) groups in the presence of a catalyst. 
     MDI PPG Memory Foam  13  combines polyurethane with additional chemicals increasing its viscosity. It is often referred to as visco-elastic polyurethane foam. In some formulations, it is firmer when cooler. Higher density memory foam reacts to body heat, allowing it to mold to a warm human body in a few minutes. Lower density memory foam is pressure-sensitive and moulds quickly to the shape of the body. 
     Bidirectional polyester microfiber fabric or any bidirectional polyester fiber microfiber refers to synthetic fibers that measure less than one denier. The most common types of microfibers are made from polyesters, polyamides (nylon), and or a conjugation of polyester and polyamide. 
     Microfiber is used to make non-woven, woven, and knitted textiles. The shape, size and combinations of synthetic fibers are selected for specific characteristics, including the following: softness, durability, absorption, wicking abilities, water repellency, electrodynamics, and filtering capabilities. Microfiber is commonly used for apparel, upholstery, industrial filters and cleaning products. 
       FIG. 20  shows a top view of an orthopedic seating system  2000  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 21  shows a bottom perspective view of the orthopedic system  2000  illustrated in  FIG. 20 . The seating system  2000  includes foundation member  2100  (similar to foundation member  12  of the device  100  embodiments as described above) including the concave channel  110  recess protruding from the underside of the foundation member  2100 , a first track  2050 , a second track  2060 , a motion cart  2010  and coupling means  2020 . In one example, the motion cart  2010  is suspended and connected to the first track  2050  and the second track  2060 . In one example, the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  have a length in the range of 4-7 inches and a diameter ranging between ¼-⅛ inch. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths and diameters for the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  are employed based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). In one example, the motion cart  2010  has a length in the range of 2-4 inches, a width ranging from 1-3 inches, and a height ranging from ¼-1.2 inch. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths, widths and heights are employed for the motion cart  2010  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). In one example, the foundation member  2100  has dimensions ranging from 10-15 inches in width, 11-17 inches in length, and 3-7 inches in height. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths, widths and heights are employed for the foundation member  2100  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 20-21 , the foundation member (i.e., dynamic advocacy pan and an orthopedic orthotic) includes the concave channel  110  recess protruding from the underside of the foundation member and downwardly extending wheel like structure. In one example, the M shape from foundation member  12  that represents the regions  105 - 104 - 110  (see  FIG. 1A ) remains the same as with foundation member  2100 . With reference to  FIG. 1A  and  FIG. 20 , the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  are attached to the underside of foundation member  12  on the central bowl portion  3 , circularly extend outward from regions  102 - 103 , attach at the edge of sections  102 - 103  cross section L-L, and connect at point E-E (see  FIG. 18A ). With reference to  FIG. 3D  and  FIG. 20 , the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  run parallel to longitudinal A-A (see  FIG. 3D ). In this example, the cart  2010  moves along the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  by coupling means  2020 . 
     In one example, the coupling means comprises a wheel system, and the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  have a round shape (e.g., circular, cylindrical, oval, etc.). In one example, the coupling means may be connected to the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  by different means, such as a multi-wheel system (e.g., 12 wheels, 24 wheels, etc.). In another example, the coupling means  2020  may be connected to the cart  2010  on all four corners. In other embodiments, the coupling means  2020  may be other types of connectors other than wheels, such as rollers, ball type connectors, etc. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  may be attached to the orthopedic seat  2100  by known means, such as being molded into the orthopedic seat, attached via hardware (e.g., nuts, bolts, etc.), permanent adhesive (e.g., epoxy), etc. 
       FIGS. 22A-B  shows side views of a system  2200  including the embodiment of the invention shown in  FIG. 20  coupled with an arm connector  2210  and arm  2205 .  FIG. 22A  shows the cart  2010  in a first position, and  FIG. 22B  shows the cart  2010  in a second position. As shown in  FIG. 22A , the first position of the orthopedic seat  2100  represents that the weight of a user is not being born by the orthopedic seat  2100 . In this example, because the cart  2010  rolls effortlessly along the first track  2050  and the second track  2060  that follow the shape and curve of the concave channel  110  wheel like structure, the orthopedic seat  2100  finds a balance point along the first track  2050  and the second track  2060 .  FIG. 22B  shows the second position of the orthopedic seat  2100  as having been caused to undertake a considerable amount downward rotation tilted indicated by the angle O. The downward rotation is partly a result of the weight of the lower pelvis of a user on the portion of the foundation member  12  sections  102  and  103  of the bowl portion  20 , and partly a result of the hamstring portion of the distal thighs, that is, the underside of the upper thigh portion of the user legs, resting on the front lip-like section  101 , causing a substantial amount of downward curvature (see also  FIG. 1A  for reference). Also shown is the back portion of the orthopedic seat  2100  shifting forward by distance, the bowl portion  20  is also shifted forward, and the front section  101  bends down. It should be noted that in one example, the cart  2010  may rotate or spin 360° on the arm connector  2210 . In this example, the cart  2010  is capable of 6 DOF (degrees of freedom) motion (e.g., pitch, yaw and roll, etc.). In one example, arm  2205  has a length range from 6-12 inches non-extended, and a range of 10-18 inches extended, and a diameter range from ½ inch to 1 inch. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths and diameters are employed for the arm  2205  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). 
     In one example, the round first and second track  2050  and  2060  rails follow the curvature of the concave wheel-like structures&#39;  110  bottom surface. The first and second track  2050  and  2060  rails are distanced away from the surface of the orthopedic seat  2100  with enough room for the wheel system not to touch or come in contact with the foundation members&#39;  12  bottom surface. In this example, the round first and second track  2050  and  2060  rails attach at the points E-E and L-L (see  FIG. 18A  for reference) at a 90° angle. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, the cart  2010  is attached to the first and second track  2050  and  2060  rails and coupled to a universal ball joint  2210  that is attached to a pneumatic cylinder  2205  with another universal ball joint. The cart  2010  travels from bp 1  (see also  FIG. 8 a    for reference) to bp 2  (see also  FIG. 8 b    for reference) at E-E (see  FIG. 3 d    for reference) which is the equilibrium balance point. In one example, the ball joint  2210  have a diameter range between ¼-½ inch. It should be noted in other embodiments, other diameters are employed for the universal joint  2210  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). 
       FIG. 23  shows a perspective view of the second track  2060  with an example round rail shape onto which two (2) side-by-side wheels ( 2305 ,  2310  and  2315 ) roll on three sides of the round second track  2060 . In this example, a combination of six wheels surrounding three-fourths of the rail assists the cart  2010  to move via rolling of the wheels  2305 ,  2310  and  2315  in a stable manner. 
       FIG. 24  shows a top perspective view of a seating apparatus  2400  (dynamic active seat pan and orthopedic orthotic) including a motion track system according to one embodiment of the invention. This top perspective view of the foundation member  2405  is a dynamic active seat pan, including an orthopedic orthotic, and includes a bezel-like member  2415  attached at its entire periphery. In one example, the bezel-like member  2415  is used for attaching flexible fabrics to the foundation member  2405  (similar to the foundation member  12  as described above). As illustrated, the concave channel  110  recess protruding from the underside of the foundation member  2405  is a downwardly extending wheel-like structure. The M shape from foundation member  2405  is similar to foundation member  12  and represents the regions  105 ,  104  (see  FIG. 1 a    for reference) and  110 . In foundation member  2405 , the central bowl portion  3  that circularly extend outward from regions  102  and  103  (see  FIG. 1 a    for reference) attached to the underside of the foundation member  2405  is a fixed attachment plate  2410  at the intersection of E-E (see  FIG. 26A ) and A-A (see  FIG. 18 a    for reference). In one example, the bezel-like member  2415  has a diameter in the range of ¼ to ½ inch. It should be noted in other embodiments, other diameter are employed for the bezel-like member  2415  based on the fabric or materials necessary to hold and secure the foundation member  2405 . 
       FIG. 25  shows a side view of a system  2500  including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline-like chair apparatus  2510  showing posture of a human anatomy  2515  seated in the seating apparatus  2400 , according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, attached to the fixed attachment plate is the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205 . In one example, the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  comprises a pneumatic-controlled lowering system. As shown in this side view with the orthotic apparatus in a secondary weight bearing state shows that the universal joints allow the cart  2410  to find its equilibrium balance point at point E-E (see  FIG. 26A ). As illustrated the wheel base  2530  connected to the V-shaped support member  2525  shows the pivot point  2526  for the tilt joint that attaches to the sub frame that holds up the entire chair frame. In one example, the chair frame is one continuous part which includes the seat pan and the backrest with the pneumatic support beam that is suspended. In some embodiments of the invention the frame of the chair apparatus  2510  may be made from polymer plastics, metals, a combination of both, etc. In one example, the frame of chair apparatus  2510  has a bezel-like attachment throughout its entire interior periphery from which the flexible fabric is attached. 
       FIG. 26A  illustrates a top perspective view of the foundation  2405  integrated with the trampoline like chair apparatus  2510 . As illustrated, the concave channel  110  recess protrudes from the underside of the foundation member  2405  downwardly extending as a wheel like structure. Attached to the underside of the foundation member  2405  are fixed attachment plate  2410 , the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  at the intersection of E-E and A-A (see  FIG. 19 a    for reference) and support beam  2610 . It should be noted that in some embodiments of the invention, the foundation  2405  is designed with respect to skeletal and muscle, anatomical structure, and the integrated trampoline-like structure is designed for the soft tissue structures of a person&#39;s buttocks and distal thighs. In these embodiments of the invention, the skeletal and muscle anatomical design forms a dynamic active seat pan, and the trampoline-like structure forms a non-active passive seat pan, where the two seat pans are integrated and combined together. 
     In one example, the chair apparatus  2510  is an ergonomic workstation chair. As illustrated, the active orthopedic orthotic seat apparatus  2400  with the roller coaster track system is attached to a support beam  2610  that attaches to the mainframe of the chair apparatus  2510  at the contact attachment point for flexible fabric attached to its interior and entire orthotic seat apparatus  2400  circumference. 
     In one example, the chair apparatus  2510  material is multidirectionally knitted polyester fabric which has varying degrees of flexibility depending upon which area is desired to have more flexibility or less flexibility. In this example, the material attaches to the bezel-like member  2415  on the entire circumference of the foundation member  2405 . In one example, the material is made by weaving methods. In one embodiment of the invention, fabric similar to Trevira fabric made from flexible polyester fibers may be used. Because the seating apparatus  2400  is suspended in a very flexible multidirectional fabric attached to the frame of the chair apparatus  2510 , the chair apparatus  2510  is referred to as a trampoline-like chair structure. In one example, the very flexible fabric suspends the active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  2400  allowing it to move in any direction it would have if it were just placed on the seat pan. Because the seat pan of the chair apparatus  2510  is made from a very flexible fabric to hold the soft tissues that spill over from our active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  2400 , the system  2500  is referred to as a dual seat pan. 
     As shown in  FIG. 26A , the equilibrium balance point E-E is the weight bearing position as if a person were sitting in the chair apparatus  2510 . The chair apparatus  2510  also includes a sub-frame  2515  that holds up the seating apparatus  2400  and a back rest mainframe attaches to a V-shaped support member  2525 . This is the shape that allows the support beam with its universal joint pneumatic cylinder to have sufficient clearance from the V-shaped support member  2525 . In this example, the V-shaped support member  2525  attaches to the sub frame  2515  at a joint. In another example, the V-shaped support member  2525  may have other shapes, such as a U-shape, a C-Shape, etc. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, on top of the V-shaped support member  2525  sub-frame there are two joints  2526 ,  2527  from which to pivot. At the joints  2526 ,  2527  a tensioning/tightening or loosening hinge allows the entire frame of the chair apparatus  2510  to tilt forward or to tilt backward at the joints  2526 ,  2527 . In one example, when the frame of the chair apparatus  2510  tilts back, a sufficient clearance exists for the support beam  2610  with the universal joint pneumatic cylinder base  2520  to fit between the V-shaped support member  2525  s. 
       FIG. 26B  shows a bottom perspective view of the seating apparatus  2400  (dynamic active seat pan and orthopedic orthotic). In one example, the support beam  2610  stabilizes the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  as it is coupled to the frame portion of the chair system  2500 . It should be noted that while a chair system  2500  is illustrated, other types of seating may include the seating apparatus  2400 , such as various sized chairs, armchairs, stools, etc. 
     The active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  2400  with cart and rail track system attached to a pneumatic cylinder with universal ball joints  2205  on both top and bottom of pneumatic cylinder  2520  allows for two distinct functions to occur. The cart and rail track system allows the person sitting in the system  2500  to first sit down upon the seating apparatus  2400  directly on top and dispositions correctly to the skeletal system. To activate the orthotic seating apparatus  2400 , a person needs to skootch back into the chair apparatus  2510 . The cart and rail track system allows the initial activation movement. 
     In one example, the cart and rail track system in combination with the pneumatic cylinder  2520  and universal joints  2205  has a highly advantageous number of attributes. In one example, the orthotic seating apparatus  2400  sits higher than any other surface of the seat pan, where the levitated orthotic seating apparatus  2400  shows a person where to sit on the seat pan correctly and also allows for the pneumatic cylinder  2520  to slowly lower the pelvis into the flexible sub seat pan of the seating apparatus  2400 . In this example, this controlled lowering system slowly lowers the pelvis, which to those with back pain is a comfortable way to slow a person&#39;s body when going from a standing to sitting position. In another example, the controlled lowering system allows a user to skootch back into the chair apparatus  2510  with greater efficiency and before the body weight completely presses down on the sub-seat pan. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, the system  2500  includes armrests (not shown) that are stationary, movable, adjustable, etc. In one example, the chair apparatus  2510  includes a wheeled base. In other examples, the chair apparatus  2510  includes stationary feet, may be attached permanently to a floor, etc. 
       FIG. 27A  shows a side cross-sectional view of the system  2500  including the seat apparatus  2400  taken at a location parallel to the center line A (see  FIG. 1 a    for reference), indicating the relationship of the front portion  101  to the rear portion  16  indicating the first position of the device  100 . As illustrated, the weight of a user is not being born by the seating apparatus  2400 . In one example, the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  are adapted to couple together as shown. 
       FIGS. 27B-C  show side cross-sectional views indicating two positions or states of the seat apparatus  2400 .  FIG. 27B  shows a first position of the seat apparatus  2400  wherein weight of a user is not being born by the seat apparatus  2400 . As shown, because the cart  2410  rolls effortlessly along the first and second tracks  2050 ,  2060  that follow the shape and curve of the concave channel  110  wheel like structure, the seat apparatus  2400  finds a balance point along the track. As illustrated, the first position is an elevated position showing the seating apparatus  2400  and chair apparatus  2510  ready to accept the pelvis of the user, which in turn will slowly lower the body into the position shown in  FIG. 27C . 
       FIG. 27C  shows the second position of the seat apparatus  2400  as having been caused to undertake a considerable amount downward rotation tilted (e.g., indicated by the angle O in  FIG. 22B ). In one embodiment of the invention, the downward rotation is partly a result of the weight of the lower pelvis of the user on the portion of the foundation member  2405  sections  102 ,  103  (see  FIG. 1 a   ) of the bowl portion  20 , and the presence of the likes of the user, with the hamstring portion of the distal thighs, i.e. the underside of the upper thigh portion of the user legs, resting on the front lip like section  101 , causing a substantial amount of downward curvature. 
       FIGS. 28A-B  illustrates rear views of the system  2500  showing the dynamic difference when the seating apparatus  2400  goes from its original non-weight-bearing state ( FIG. 28A ) into a secondary state ( FIG. 28B ). As illustrated, the second position exhibits the shift of the central balance point from location bp 1  forward to location bp 2  (see  FIG. 22A-B ). As the seating apparatus moves into the second position, the back portion  16  shifts forward by distance Z, the bowl portion  20  is shifted forward, and the front section  101  bends down (see  FIG. 8 a    for reference). 
     In one example, the active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  2400  with the cart and track system is attached to the support beam  2610  that attaches to the mainframe of the chair, which is the contact attachment point for the flexible fabric. In this example, the flexible fabric is attached to its interior and the entire orthotic chair apparatus&#39;s  2510  circumference.  FIG. 28A  shows an anatomy  2515  sitting in a relatively upright position.  FIG. 28B  shows an anatomy  2515  where the person has leaned to the left. As the person leans, the universal joints  2205  of the pneumatic cylinder  2520  pneumatic system allow the orthotic seating apparatus  2400  to roll and maintain the continual relationship. In one example, the orthotic seating apparatus  2400  of the system  2500  tilts, cups, cradles and applies torsion on its axis to continually apply dynamic support to stabilize the pelvis of the user, which holds the pelvis in a correct lordotic curve through a wide range of motion for a sitting person and holds the user in a constant perpetuating system. In one example, the flexible fabric of the secondary seat pan holds the soft tissues of a person that are flowing over the side of the orthotic seating apparatus  2400 . 
       FIG. 29A  shows a rear view of an exoskeleton seating system  2900  including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline-like chair apparatus  2510  showing the posture of a human anatomy  2515  in a first position with cross-sections A, B, and C according to one embodiment of the invention. In one embodiment of the invention the cross-sections A, B, C illustrate how the skeleton maintains an equal, parallel relationship to the active orthotic seating apparatus  2400 , where the pressures that are holding up the pelvis in floated muscle tissue are evenly distributed upward into the pelvic bones, while at the same time the upper body weight is transferred down into the seating apparatus  2400 . This equal, parallel relationship to the active orthotic seating apparatus  2400  is maintained even when the body (human anatomy  2515 ) shifts as shown in  FIG. 29B , which shows a rear view of an exoskeleton seating system  2900  including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline like chair apparatus  2510  showing posture of a human anatomy  2515  in a second position with cross-sections A, B, and C.  FIG. 29C  shows a rear view of an exoskeleton seating system  2900  including a motion track system integrated with a trampoline-like chair apparatus  2510  showing posture of a human anatomy  2515  in the first position and showing direction of forces.  FIG. 29D  shows a rear view of an exoskeleton seating system  2980  integrated with a cushion apparatus  2910  showing posture of a human anatomy  2515  in the first position, and showing direction of forces according to one embodiment of the invention. 
     In one example, the fusion of pelvic motion in conjunction with the exoskeleton seating apparatus  2950 , and the exoskeleton seating apparatus&#39;s  2950  conjunction with the sub seat pan creates a functional system between the user&#39;s body and the exoskeleton orthotic seating apparatus  2950 . This symbiotic functional system between the body and the exoskeleton attributes of the seating apparatus  2950  integrated with the sub seat pan forms a kinematic system of sitting. In one example, while the pelvis is cradled and held in the center of gravity balance equilibrium point, the upper body weight moves down through the pelvis, then through the muscle tissues. The muscle tissue being held this way distributes the weight evenly into the total surface of the exoskeleton seating apparatus  2950  as shown by the up/down arrows shown in  FIGS. 29A-B  and D. The exoskeleton seating apparatus  2950  then transfers this weight and pressure into the sub seat pan of the chair  2510  and cushion  2910 . Because of this transfer of pressures to the bottom surface of the foundation members, a unique event occurs. The exoskeleton seating apparatus  2950  becomes an exoskeleton shell. 
     In one implementation, there is a mirrored positive action because of the exoskeleton effect. The same muscle tissues that transfers the upper body weight downward (shown by the downward arrows) into the apparatus evenly applies pressure up into the pelvis bones (shown by the upward arrows). The muscle tissue evenly distributes pressure no matter what the roll, lean, rotation or slump of a user, i.e., of all potential ranges of motion of the pelvis of a sitting person. This evenly applied pressure up into the pelvis bones is what assists to float the pelvis without putting pressure on the many tuberous places of the pelvic bones. 
     In one example, the angle of the seating apparatus  2950  is parallel to the angle base of the ischeal tuberosities B-B and is parallel to the angle C-C of the upper pelvis and hip sockets. In one implementation, it is important to understand that the relationship between transferring upper body weight down through the pelvic bones into the muscle tissue evenly into the orthotic seating apparatus  2950  has a “mirrored relationship” back up through the cupped muscles and pelvic bones. Because the upper body weight is carried evenly through the pelvis and muscle tissue, it holds the pelvic bones evenly back up through the entire pelvis. Because the pelvis is being held at its bottom with inward cradling, so as not to allow pelvic bone spreading outward, (see  FIG. 10D  for reference) the pressures that emanate upwardly from the seating apparatus  2950  that are being held evenly around the entire lower pelvic structure are substantially decreased by the evenly distributed pressures into the exoskeleton attributes of the seating apparatus  2950 . 
     In one example, acting as an active orthotic area of the seat pan, the seating apparatus  2950  distributes the weight and pressure from the user into the static seat pan. The seating surface&#39;s secondary portion of the dual seat pan carries the greatest pressures, not the surface of the human skin. Once the soft tissues have been cupped and the pelvis has been cradled and rotated forward, stabilization occurs. Once the stabilization occurs, the center of gravity point is established and all body weight is transferred from the bones through the soft tissues and into the seating apparatus  2950 . In one example, the seating apparatus  2950  acts as a bowl and distributes the weight evenly throughout the pelvic bones. In one implementation, the ischeal tuberosities are always perpendicular to the seating apparatus  2950  angle, which keeps the angles perpendicular throughout the pelvis and hip sockets. When the body moves, the seating apparatus  2950  maintains the distribution of the weight through its exoskeleton shell. 
     In one example, because muscle tissue is 70% water and fat tissue is 35% water, human skin acts much like a latex balloon filled with water. In this example, imagine that a large water balloon is placed in a bowl. The water balloon is large enough to fill and overflow the bowl. Now imagine pressing down on the water balloon in the bowl. As the balloon is pressed down, the balloon presses back against one&#39;s fists surrounding them filling in any gaps. This is because the balloon is held against the sides of the bowl and the balloon can stretch and fill, searching for any place where there is no pressure or hard surface (i.e., least resistance). The pressure of the fists pushing into the water balloon is transferred into the balloon skin, which in turn transfers the pressure into the bowl. In this example, the distribution of pressure around the water balloon is evenly distributed into the bowl. Because a human&#39;s muscles and fat tissues are predominately water, they are very similar to the water balloon example. Human skin acts similar to a latex balloon. In one implementation, when a user sits in the “bowl like” seating apparatus  2950 , the muscle tissues fill the bowl and the sitting bones are much like the pressure of the fists filling the bowl. This is similar to the ischial tuberosities pushing down into the muscle and soft tissues into the bowl-like seating apparatus  2950 . Because the water filled muscle and fat tissue fills the bowl of the seating apparatus  2950  and the ischial tuberosities are suspended in the muscle tissue so that the upper body weight is transferred through watery muscle tissues and into the skin. The “balloon like” skin transfers the pressure into the seating apparatus  2950 . Thus the seating apparatus  2950  becomes an exoskeleton shell. In one example, the exoskeleton shell is integrated with the secondary seat pan; the surface of the seating apparatus  2950  has taken on all the pressure of the upper body and transfers those pressures into the secondary seat pan. All along, the suspended pelvis in a “balloon” of muscle tissue, floats stabilized and cradled. 
       FIG. 30  shows a top view of a seating system  3000  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated,  FIG. 30  shows how the foundation member  2100 , when responding to a person&#39;s twisting and flexing, causes torsioning of the rear segment of the bowl portion of foundation member  2100 . In one example, the lumbar support arms  3015 ,  3020  are attached on either side of the center line A-A to maintain lumbar support throughout the range of motion while torsion occurs to the bowl portion of foundation member  2100 . This unique kinematic design of the lumbar support pad  3010  allows for a range of motion to be significantly expanded compared to typical lumbar support members. In one example, not only does the mechanical aspect of the support arms  3015 ,  3020  maintain asymmetrical pressure on the lumbar support pad  3010 , the lumbar support pad  3010  is applied at a same angle of the users back throughout the user&#39;s motion because of the arrangement between the foundation member  2100  that follows the torsion and twist. This allows a person sitting on a chair including the foundation member  2100  to no longer have to rotate against the chair as with a typical chair, but instead the user can move in conjunction with the seat pan and the lumbar support pad  3100  follows and maintains support. In one example, the support arms  3015 ,  3020  include multiple segments and universal joints. In another embodiment the support arms  3015 ,  3020  include pneumatic pistons, shock absorbers, etc. In one example, the lumbar support pad  3010  has dimensions in the range of 5-12 inches in width, 10-12 inches in length, and 3-4 inches in height. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths, widths and heights are employed for the lumbar support pad  3010  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). In one example, the support arms  3015 ,  3020  have dimensions that range from 4-12 inches in length, and ½-1 inch in diameter. It should be noted in other embodiments, other lengths and diameters are employed for the support arms  3015 ,  3020  based on the targeted user (e.g., children, adults, athletes, etc.). 
       FIG. 31  shows a bottom perspective view of a seating apparatus  3100  including a seating apparatus  2400  (dynamic active seat pan and orthopedic orthotic), motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support system  3102 , according to one embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment of the invention, the active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  2400  is coupled with the tracks, including first track  2050  and second track  2060 , cart  2010 , and the mechanical lumbar support system  3102 , including arms  3015 ,  3020 , the lumbar pad  3010 , and seating apparatus coupling portion  3105 . 
     A typical lumbar support can only be positioned to certain places against the lower back and can be adjusted in some manner to become larger by means, such as an inflatable bladder or a spring ratcheting that requires manual twisting of a knob. In one embodiment of the invention, the lumbar support pad  3010  has relationship to the orthotic foundation member  2100 , so as the foundation member  2100  twists and turns on its axis, the lumbar support pad  3010  maintains its position with the lower spine as a person moves. In one example, the lumbar support arms  3015 ,  3020  are mechanical devices, such as pistons, pneumatic pistons, chains, cabling, etc., and continually apply pressure to a seated person&#39;s lower back regardless of how a person desires to move around or lean forward in the seating apparatus  3100 . 
     In one example,  FIG. 31  shows two support arms  3015  and  3020  to support the lumbar pad  3010 . In this example, due to the two support arms  3015  and  3020 , an asymmetrical support system is created when a person sitting in the seating apparatus  3100  twists and leans (e.g., lean to the left or right side), and the support arms  3015  and  3020  will respond differently to the pressure on their given side of lumbar pad  3010 . In this example, asymmetrical support is always maintained at a 90° angle to the line of the top of a person&#39;s pelvis. In one example, because the two support arms  3015  and  3020  are attached to the back of the orthotic foundation member  2100 , when a person twists or turns the support arms  3015  and  3020  follow to the left or right and allow for a three-dimensional range of motion for the lumbar support pad  3010 . 
       FIG. 32A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus  3100  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  shown with vertical angular adjustment according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 32B  shows a side view of the seating apparatus  3100  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  shown with forward/backward adjustment according to another embodiment of the invention. In one example, due to the universal rotating joints, the lumbar support pad  3010  may tilt sideways, move in and out, and rotate up/down and side-to-side. As a person moves, such as twisting and turning, on the foundation member  2100 , the lumbar support arms  3015  and  3020  react to apply pressure for support to the lower lumbar region with a smooth three-dimensional motion with one another. In this example, the lumbar support always applies a counter pressure to the natural pattern of movement for maintaining application of additional support to maintain forward lordosis. 
       FIG. 33A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus  3100  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010 , shown in a first position, according to one embodiment of the invention. This illustration shows the foundation member  2100  and lumbar support  2100  conforming as a person moves when seated on the seating apparatus  3100  in a first direction.  FIG. 33B  shows a rear view of the seating apparatus  3100  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , motion track system, and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  shown as a person moves when seated on the seating apparatus  3100  in the opposite direction as shown in  FIG. 33A . 
       FIG. 34A  shows a rear view of a mechanically controllable lumbar support system  3400  according to another embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 34B  shows a side view of a mechanically controllable lumbar support system  3400 . In one example, the first support arm  3415  and the second support arm  3430  include a combination of pneumatic pistons that are connected together at joints and surrounded with a mechanical body. In one example, the support arms  3415  and  3430  each include three (3) or more (e.g., 4, 5, 6, etc.) pistons and joint connections between the pistons. The sizes of the pistons and joints may vary depending on the targeted user. For example, if the targeted users are adults, the pistons and joints may be larger than when the targeted users are children. In one embodiment of the invention, further mechanical levering and or pistons may be enhanced by other materials, such as temperature sensitive, shape memory, hydraulic, pneumatic, etc. “embedded intelligence.” In these embodiments of the invention, the inherent properties of the materials themselves will respond and adapt to the individuals unique requirements. 
       FIGS. 35A-B  show a side view of a seating apparatus  3500  including an active orthopedic apparatus foundation member  2100 , motion track system  3101 , and memory retentive lumbar support pad  3010  according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, the lumbar support pad  3010  is connected to the memory-retentive, controlled lumbar support arms  3510 . In one example, the support arm  3510  is molded in a specific first shape and given its structure and design so that it would not only bend under applied pressures, but move forward against those pressures. In one example, the memory retentive “living” support arms  3510  include two walls  3501 ,  3502  running somewhat parallel to one another, with cross members  3503  arranged somewhat evenly between them. In one example, the cross members  3503  each have a pseudo “S” shape that gives them the ability to withstand pressure and respond to pressure as the two parallel bars respond to pressure. The shape of the interior cross members  3503  flex upon attempting to return to their original shapes. This gives the lumbar support arms  3510  the ability to continually apply pressure back against the lower lumbar region of a user&#39;s spine that is seated in the seating apparatus  3500 .  FIG. 34A  shows the support arm  3510  arranged in a first position, while  FIG. 35B  shows the support arm  3510  in a second position. In one example, the seating apparatus  3500  includes two support arms  3510 . In other examples, the seating apparatus may have one support arm  3510 , three supports arms  3510 , etc 
     Due to the advancement of materials and manufacturing processes, I foresee that memory-retentive “living” support arms can be further enhanced by materials that will have “embedded intelligence and or information inherent in the materials themselves” that will respond and adapt to the individual&#39;s unique requirements. These “embedded intelligence and/or information” do not require mechanical joints to adapt to the individual and further enhance the lumbar support while a person is moving. 
       FIG. 36  shows a side view of a seating apparatus  3600  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  (dynamic active seat pan and orthopedic orthotic), motion track system  3101  integrated in a trampoline like chair apparatus  3610 , and a mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  coupled to the seating apparatus  2400  according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, the lumbar support pad  3010  adjusts to angles of a person&#39;s body to maintain contact with the lower lumbar region. In one example, the chair apparatus  3610  has similar frame and support features as the chair apparatus  2510 , as described with other embodiments and examples, with the addition of the lumbar support pad  3010 . As illustrated, the seating apparatus  3600  includes an optional fixed attachment plate coupled to a universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  for pneumatically controlled lowering. 
       FIG. 37A  shows a side view of a seating apparatus  3800  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400 , motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  integrated in a trampoline-like chair apparatus  3810  having a high back, according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 37B  shows an exploded side view of the apparatus shown in  FIG. 37A . In one example, the chair apparatus  3810  is an ergonomic workstation chair. In one example, the active orthopedic orthotic seating apparatus  3800  with the roller coaster track system  3101  is attached to a support beam  2610  (see  FIGS. 38A-B ) that attaches to the mainframe of the chair apparatus  3810  and is the contact attachment point for the flexible fabric that is attached to its interior and entire orthotic apparatus&#39;s circumference, similarly as with the embodiments and examples for system  2500  as previously described. In one example, the lumbar support pad  3010  is connected to the active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  with a mechanical arm  3030  that manipulates the lumbar support pad  3010 . In one example, the fabric is covering the lumbar support pad  3010  is very flexible so that the lumbar support  3010  can push through the fabric to maintain an asymmetrical lower lumbar support member. 
       FIG. 38A  shows a rear view of a seating apparatus  3800  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400 , motion track system  3101  and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  integrated in a trampoline like chair apparatus  3810  showing a human anatomy  2515  in a first position according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 38B  shows a rear view of the seating apparatus of  FIG. 38B  showing the human anatomy  2515  in a second position. In one example, whether a user seated in a seating system  3800  twists to the left or right, the orthotic foundation member  2405  of the seating apparatus  2400  not only responds to the twisting of the user while sitting, the foundation member  2405  flexes causing torsioning of the rear segment of the bowl portion, such that upward and inward motion of the upper edges of the rear and lateral segments of the bowl portion of the foundation member  2405  follow the twisting of the users lower pelvic area for applying an upward and inward compressive force to cause a forward rotational tilt of the users lower pelvic area into a lordotic position while maintaining the bowl portion in the second position with essentially consistent dynamic pelvic area support. In the second position, the user&#39;s center of gravity shifts forward away from the sacrum onto the tips of the ischial tuberosities of the user&#39;s lower pelvic area. While the shifting is occurring, the lumbar support arms  3015 ,  3020  move along with the torsioning of the foundation member  2405  to maintain a tilt of the pelvis and a rotation of the pelvis. This example, therefore, maintains of tilt of the rotation of the pelvis and continual forward asymmetrical pressure upon the lower lumbar. 
       FIG. 39A  shows an exploded side view of a chair system  3800  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400 , motion track system  3101 , and mechanically controllable lumbar support pad  3010  integrated in another trampoline-like chair apparatus  3810  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 39B  shows an integrated side view of the system  3800  shown in  FIG. 39A . As shown, the chair system  3800  includes a lower back portion than the chair system shown in  FIGS. 37A-B .  FIG. 39A  shows a first position of the seating apparatus  2400  where no weight would be born by the system  3800 .  FIG. 39B  shows the seating apparatus  2400  in a second position where a user&#39;s weight is born tipping the front section  101  down and moving the cart  2010  over the first track  2050  and second track  2060  and using the universal joint pneumatic cylinder  2520  and arm  2205  for pneumatically controlled lowering. 
       FIG. 40A  shows a perspective view of a seating system  4100  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  (without a motion track system) integrated in a cushion  4110  and chair apparatus  4120 , according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, the foam&#39;s contour is molded specifically to accept the seating apparatus  2400  including the active orthotic foundation member  2405 , by molding the foam&#39;s  4110  contour to have transitional points that are less dramatic than if it were a portable embodiment (i.e., seating apparatus  2400  by itself). In this example, the foam  4110  is contoured to have a depression that matches the shape of the orthotic seating apparatus  2400 . One embodiment of the invention includes a fixed universal and pneumatic joint  2205  that attaches at the E-E equilibrium balance point (see  FIG. 18 a    for reference). In one example, a space  4101  (see  FIG. 40D ) is allowed in the foam  4110  to allow the attachment of the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  2205  to move freely. 
       FIG. 40B  shows a rear view of the seating system  4100  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  integrated in a cushion  4110 , showing a human anatomy  2515  in a first position according to one embodiment of the invention. This example shows a person (human anatomy  2515 ) sitting in an upright position, balanced naturally, without any upper body movement.  FIG. 40C  shows a side view of the seating system  4100  shown in  FIG. 41B .  FIG. 40D  shows a rear view of the seating system  4100  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  integrated in a cushion  4110 , showing a human anatomy  2515  in a second position, according to one embodiment of the invention. 
     In one example, the sub-seat pan cushion  4110  is made from foam or other soft cushion materials. In another example, the cushion  4110  may be an air bladder(s), a number of semi-rigid materials, such as a resilient plastic foam from which the support of the sub seat pan is formed from, for example, a matrix of polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene, other plastic bead materials, etc., which have been adhered together during a molding process. 
     In one embodiment of the invention, it can be observed that in this cross section view it is evident that the sideways tilt of the user  2515  and the implementation of the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  2205  allows the orthotic foundation member  2405  to rotate on the axis that attaches at the E-E equilibrium balance point (see  FIG. 18 a    for reference). In one example, the soft foam  4110  gives way to the upper body pressure, which allows the orthotic foundation member  2405  of the seating apparatus  2400  to move in any direction, and does not inhibit its functional aspects. 
       FIG. 41A  shows a bottom perspective view of a seating system  4200  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  according to one embodiment of the invention. In one example, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  is fixedly connected by a joint  4205  to a fixed cart  4210  that is connected to the seating apparatus  2400 . In one implementation, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  includes the joint  4205 , cylinder  4207 , cylinder rod  4208 , and second joint  4209 . In one example, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  adjusts by pivoting of the joints  205  and  4209 , and expansion/contraction of the cylinder  4207  and cylinder rod  4208 , as the seating apparatus contours due to a person&#39;s movement. In this example, the base of the cylinder rod  4208  is connected to the second joint  4209 . 
       FIG. 41B  shows a top perspective view of a seating system  4200  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and alternate fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220 , according to another embodiment of the invention. In one example, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  is fixedly connected by a joint  4205  to a fixed cart  4210  that is connected to the seating apparatus  2400 . In one implementation, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  includes the first joint  4205 , cylinder  4207 , cylinder rod  4208  and second joint  4209 . In one example, the universal and pneumatic joint  4220  adjusts by pivoting of the first joint  4205  and second joint  4209 , and expansion/contraction of the cylinder  4207  and cylinder rod  4208 , as the seating apparatus contours due to a person&#39;s movement. In this example, the base of the cylinder rod  4208  is connected to the first joint  4205 . 
       FIG. 41C  shows a side view of a seating system  4200  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  shown in a first position without any user weight borne on the seating apparatus  2400 .  FIG. 41D  shows a side view of a seating system  4200  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  shown in a second position with user weight born on the seating apparatus  2400 , showing the tilt of the front section  101 . 
       FIG. 42  shows a cross-sectional front view of the seating system  4200  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220 . 
       FIG. 43A  shows an exploded side view of a seating system  4400  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and equilibrium balance point system integrated in a cushion  4410  of a chair/stool apparatus  4430  according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 44B  shows an integrated side view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 44A  shown in a first position without weight of a user being born on the seating apparatus  2400 .  FIG. 44C  shows an integrated side view of the seating apparatus shown in  FIG. 44A  shown in a second position with a user&#39;s weight being born by the seating apparatus  2400 , showing the front section  101  being tilted into the cushion  4410 . 
     In one example the seating system  4400  includes a foam sub seat pan with the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220 , which is then adapted to a chair/stool  4430 . In this example, the foam  4410  is contoured to accept the shape of the orthotic foundation member  2405  included in the seating apparatus  2400 . As shown in  FIG. 43B , the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  has lifted the active orthotic seating apparatus  2400  away from its nesting position in the foam  4410  contoured seat pan. In this example, the lifting of the seating apparatus  2400  allows for the user to sit correctly on the seating apparatus and be lowered slowly into the sub-seat pan due to the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  within the virtual cylinder  4415 . In one example, to activate the orthotic seating apparatus  2400 , a person needs to skootch back into the stool/chair  4430 . In this example, the pneumatic levitation “controlled lowering system” provides an easy way for a person to be able to skootch onto the seating apparatus  2400  to achieve this activation movement intuitively. As shown in  FIG. 43C , the orthotic seating apparatus  2400  is nestled into the weight bearing position, and the pneumatic virtual cylinder  4415  has allowed the movement via compression. The seating apparatus  2400  floats without restriction on the foam  4410  sub seat pan as an integrated unit. 
     In one example, the levitated orthotic seating apparatus  2400  shown in  FIG. 43B  shows a person where to sit on the seat pan correctly and also allows for the fixed universal and pneumatic joint  4220  and the pneumatic virtual cylinder  4415  to slowly lower the pelvis of a user into the soft foam sub seat pan. This controlled lowering system slowly lowers the user&#39;s pelvis, which to those with back pain is comfortable way to slow their body when moving from a standing to a seated position. The controlled lowering system also allows a user to skootch back into the chair/stool  4430  with greater efficiency before the body weight of the user completely presses down on the sub-seat pan. 
       FIG. 44A  shows a rear view of a seating system  4400  including an active orthopedic seating apparatus  2400  and equilibrium balance point system integrated in a cushion  4410  of a chair/stool apparatus  4430 , showing a human anatomy  2515  in a first position due to twisting of the user, according to one embodiment of the invention.  FIG. 45B  shows a rear view of the seating system  4400  showing a human anatomy  2515  in a second position when the user is seated upright. In one example,  FIGS. 44A-B  shows the active orthotic seating apparatus  2400  integrated into a foam  4410  sub seat pan, via molding the foam  4410  specifically to accept the active orthotic seating apparatus  2400  so that the transitional points around the circumference of the orthotic foundation member, such as foundation member  2405 , are less dramatic than if the seating apparatus  2400  were a portable embodiment by itself. In one implementation, it is shown that the foam  4410  is contoured to have a depression that matches the shape of the orthotic seating apparatus  2400 . In one example, the orthotic seating apparatus  2400  has a fixed pneumatic universal joint  4420  that attaches at the E-E equilibrium balance point (see  FIG. 18 a    for reference). A space  4415  is made in the foam  4410  to allow the fixed pneumatic universal joint attachment  4420  to move freely. 
     As shown in  FIG. 44A , it is important to observe the sideways tilt of the user and how the fixed universal joint  4420  in the virtual pneumatic cylinder  4415  allows the orthotic foundation member  2405  in the seating apparatus  2400  to rotate on the axis point. The foam  4410  gives way to the upper body pressure, which allows the seating apparatus  2400  to move in three-dimensional directions, and does not inhibit its functional aspects. 
     It should be noted that lumbo-sacral kyphotic flexion is driven by rotation of the pelvis and lower intervertebral joints and seated postures, and sustained lumbo-sacral spine flexion has been associated with detrimental effects to the tissues surrounding spinal joints. The embodiments of the invention use the rotation of the pelvis to create a flexion into a proper lordotic curve and reduce the injurious effects of kyphotic flexion. 
     In the description above, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known equivalent components and elements may be substituted in place of those described herein, and similarly, well-known equivalent techniques may be substituted in place of the particular techniques disclosed. In other instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail to avoid obscuring the understanding of this description. 
     Reference in the specification to “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “some embodiments,” or “other embodiments” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment(s) is included in at least some embodiments, but not necessarily all embodiments. The various appearances of “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” or “some embodiments” are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiments. If the specification states that a component, feature, structure, or characteristic “may”, “might”, or “could” be included, that particular component, feature, structure, or characteristic is not required to be included. If the specification or claim refers to “a” or “an” element, that does not mean there is only one of the element. If the specification or claims refer to “an additional” element, that does not preclude there being more than one of the additional element. 
     While certain exemplary embodiments have been described and shown in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that such embodiments are merely illustrative of, and not restrictive on, the broad invention, and that this invention not be limited to the specific constructions and arrangements shown and described, since various other modifications may occur to those ordinarily skilled in the art.