Abstract: The invention is a telescoping spinal fixator having axially aligned upper and lower bearing elements which fit within opposing cavities in vertebrae. The respective bearing elements are maintained at an adjustable distance apart by a connecting rod with a rotatable collar axially mounted intermediate the two bearing elements for adjusting the distance between the bearing elements. In its collapsed configuration, the two bearing elements are aligned proximate to one another with just sufficient space to permit access to the adjustment collar, which is otherwise disposed within cavities in each of the bearing elements.

Abstract: An optical viewing system is described which permits viewing through a microscope at a more comfortable and advantageous angle. The device of the invention attaches between the body of the microscope and the eye piece and can be either rigid in its configuration or adjustable to permit varying angles of view. Various optical systems ca be employed within the viewing device of the invention to preserve optical integrity.

Abstract: This invention is the application of a tensioned wire striking surface to a golf putter. The wire is placed such that several turns form a flat plane over a concave portion on each side of the putter. Positioning and anchoring grooves on each end of the putter receive the wire and assure uniform tension and resultant musical tone. The putter is not adjustable, but is fixed in position. The shape of the structural and weight member is such that a high moment of inertia to rotation is achieved.The invention is an improvement over an earlier invention describing the application of tensioned wire striking surfaces to golf clubs, not including putters.

Abstract: A hammock stand is provided for suspending a hammock above the ground. The stand is a curved arch consisting of three sections which are joined together with a tongue and groove means and provided with a base to maintain the arch in an upright orientation.

Abstract: A hammock stand is provided for suspending a hammock above the ground. The stand is a curved arch consisting of three sections which are joined together with tongue and grooves joints that are reinforced by fasteners and provided with a base to maintain the arch in an upright orientation.

Abstract: A coupling is provided for releasably joining two abutting sections of a drive shaft such as used to drive an inboard power boat. An inner sleeve within the coupling is replaceable and permits one shaft to rotate relative to the other within the coupling if a predetermined torque setting is exceeded without damaging the coupling. The torque "breakaway" point for the coupling can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the bolts connecting the two halves of the coupling around the shafts.

Abstract: A hammock stand is described which consists of three elongated structural members joined together axially at oblique angles by means of a unique pair of brackets. Stabilizing cross pieces are also attached transverse to the longitudinal axis of the three structural members by means of the pair of brackets.

Abstract: Expandable vent closure apparatus for a greenhouse comprising a clear inflatable mat, the opposed surfaces of which are sealed to one another to form a plurality of horizontal tubular members and a plurality of internal air passages connecting one to the other. Air means connected to the uppermost tubular section inflates the mat within a wall mounted support assembly from the top down to seal the vent opening or upon deflation to open the vent.