What is the patent number for the 'Ergonomic systems and devices' patent related to the Gokhale Method?

According to the 2024 Gokhale Method Franchise Disclosure Document, the patent number for the 'Ergonomic systems and devices' patent is 7,540,564. This is a mechanical patent that was issued on June 2, 2009, for a period of 17 years. The patent covers systems or devices that provide traction or support to portions of the user's body to help stretch or decompress the user's spine. The patent can be used in chairs, beds, cushions, or other articles of furniture.

This patent is material to the Gokhale Method franchise because franchisees may use products covered by the patent in classes and sell them to students or members of the public. However, the FDD states that while franchisees can resell products protected by patents owned or licensed to Gokhale Method, they do not have rights to the underlying intellectual property.

The Gokhale Method does not include any provision in the Franchise Agreement requiring them to protect the patents or copyrights, or to defend, indemnify, or hold the franchisee harmless if a third party sues them for infringement for using the patented products. The Franchise Agreements also do not provide any rights to franchisees if Gokhale Method decides to modify or discontinue the subject matter of the patents and copyrights. Prospective franchisees should be aware of these conditions and consider them carefully before investing in a Gokhale Method franchise.