Abstract: Some embodiments include a strike training machine that provides bidirectional resistance. The machine replicates the full and natural trajectory of the striking motion and provides resistance throughout extension and contraction of the striking motion. In this manner, the machine trains all muscles involved in a particular strike. The trajectory of the machine is user adjustable to accommodate different striking motions which include punches, kicks, elbow strikes, knee strikes, and throwing motions. In some embodiments, the machine applies a user specifiable amount of resistance. By adjusting the amount of resistance, the actor is able to overload train the muscle groups associated with the striking motions by gradually increasing resistance during training.

Abstract: An orthopedic protective assembly is disclosed. The orthopedic protective apparatus includes a foam shaped collar to conform to a user's neck area. The foam shaped collar comprises a multi-layer polymer material having a pliable outermost protective layer to absorb initial impact energy and additional layer(s). The additional layer(s) require(s) greater impact energy to deform than those of the pliable outermost protective layer. In one embodiment, shim extension(s) customize(s) impact energy absorption properties of the foam shaped collar by filling a gap between an underside of the foam shaped collar and a shoulder region of a user.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide different frameworks for seamlessly issuing and executing commands across servers of different federation participants. Each framework facilitates issuance and execution of a command that originates from a first federation participant and that is intended for execution at servers of a second federation participant. In some embodiments, a framework implements a method for enabling command interoperability between distributed platforms that each operate a set of servers on behalf of content providers. The method involves receiving a command targeting a particular configuration that a first distributed platform deploys to a server that is operated by a second distributed platform. The method identifies the server of the second distributed platform that is deployed with the particular configuration.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide a gluteus weight training machine for progressive overload resistance training of the gluteus muscles. The gluteus weight training machine includes a frame, a support member linked to the frame, and two resistance members that provide resistance against a downward arcing rotation of the resistance member. Each resistance member includes a pad against which a user's leg applies force in order to perform the downward arcing rotation of the resistance member. Each resistance member further includes a weight assembly that adjusts the amount of weight used as resistance.

Abstract: The invention provides a tool (10) for use in controlling quantity of congregatable particulates, such as coffee, contained in a receptacle. The tool (10) includes support means (20) and a blade (18). The support means (20) are adapted to be supported by a wall of the receptacle. The blade (18) is for contacting an upper surface of the congregated particulates. The tool (10) is movable relative to the receptacle wall.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide different frameworks that implement conflict avoidance systems and methods for ensuring uniqueness in identifying assets for different customers that are deployed to server capacity of one or more distributed platforms participating in a federation. Specifically, different frameworks are provided whereby the distributed platforms authorize use of a domain before configuring the domain to identify assets of a customer. A method performed in one such framework includes receiving a domain that is specified for identifying assets of a first customer belonging to a first distributed platform of the federation. The method determines whether the domain conflicts with a domain that is configured by a second distributed platform of the federation. The method then communicates with the first distributed platform (i) to configure the received domain when there is no conflict and (ii) to prevent the first distributed platform from configuring the received domain when there is a conflict.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide different frameworks for seamlessly issuing and executing commands across servers of different federation participants. Each framework facilitates issuance and execution of a command that originates from a first federation participant and that is intended for execution at servers of a second federation participant. In some embodiments, a framework implements a method for enabling command interoperability between distributed platforms that each operate a set of servers on behalf of content providers. The method involves receiving a command targeting a particular configuration that a first distributed platform deploys to a server that is operated by a second distributed platform. The method identifies the server of the second distributed platform that is deployed with the particular configuration.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide an abdominal training machine that uses an adapted reverse crunching motion to minimize stress to the knees, back, shoulders, and neck when training the abdominal muscles. The machine combines weight resistance training with a replicated natural motion of each leg to produce the adapted reverse crunching motion. The adapted reverse crunching motion is performed using a section of the lower part of the body closest to the abdominal muscles while the upper body or torso remains stationary. In some embodiments, the abdominal training machine includes a frame, a body support member, and two individually rotating resistance members. Each resistance member includes a weight assembly for providing a user adjustable amount of resistance.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide different frameworks that implement conflict avoidance systems and methods for ensuring uniqueness in identifying assets for different customers that are deployed to server capacity of one or more distributed platforms participating in a federation. Specifically, different frameworks are provided whereby the distributed platforms authorize use of a domain before configuring the domain to identify assets of a customer. A method performed in one such framework includes receiving a domain that is specified for identifying assets of a first customer belonging to a first distributed platform of the federation. The method determines whether the domain conflicts with a domain that is configured by a second distributed platform of the federation. The method then communicates with the first distributed platform (i) to configure the received domain when there is no conflict and (ii) to prevent the first distributed platform from configuring the received domain when there is a conflict.

Abstract: The invention provides a chain saw attachment for unobstructed cutting of smaller objects with diameters less than three inches and larger objects with diameters greater than three inches. The attachment includes a set of prongs that vertically extend at an acute angle from a cover above the cutting teeth of the chain saw blade to a specified distance below the blade. The prongs stabilize small objects from whipping and dragging when engaged by the cutting teeth and facilitate the cutting of brush with diameter equal to height of the blade. Moreover, the cover does not extend the full length of the blade to allow for fully unobstructed cuts using the uncovered section of the blade. The cover increase safe operation of the chain saw and distributes stress from a particular prong over the entire attachment.

Abstract: Some embodiments provide different frameworks for seamlessly issuing and executing commands across servers of different federation participants. Each framework facilitates issuance and execution of a command that originates from a first federation participant and that is intended for execution at servers of a second federation participant. In some embodiments, a framework implements a method for enabling command interoperability between distributed platforms that each operate a set of servers on behalf of content providers. The method involves receiving a command targeting a particular configuration that a first distributed platform deploys to a server that is operated by a second distributed platform. The method identifies the server of the second distributed platform that is deployed with the particular configuration.