Abstract: The present invention provides methods and apparatus for expanding a first, smaller diameter tubular into frictional contact with a second, larger diameter tubular or wellbore. In an embodiment, annular formations formed on an inner surface of a split ring engage an outer surface of the smaller tubular. In one aspect, the smaller diameter tubular is provided with an annular recess there around, the annular recess including recessed grooves formed there around. Therefore, the split ring is disposable within the annular recess and the annular formations formed on the split ring are constructed and arranged to fit within the recessed grooves of the annular recess of the tubular. An outer surface of the split ring is provided with teeth or some other grip-enhancing material or formation. The split ring also includes a split portion permitting the ring to expand in diameter as that portion of the tubular is expanded in diameter.

Abstract: A wood based product comprises condensed natural wood fibres. The wood fibres have bulk density of about 20 lbs/ft3 or greater at moisture content of about 15% by weight or less, and each particle of the wood fibres has a particle size of less than about {fraction (3/16)} inch. By using such condensed wood fibres, the wood based product is capable of functioning as physical bedding for poultry that can absorb moisture and ammonia for a complete production cycle of commercial poultry operations.

Abstract: A flexible dasher board assembly and system that utilizes four different aspects for providing shock absorbing features in order to absorb any of four different types of forces imparted thereon by players. In a first aspect, the entire dasher board assembly is provided with rotational flexibility such that the entire dasher board assembly will pivot about a point substantially near the bottom of the dasher board and close to the ice. In a second aspect, the entire dasher board system is provided with translational flexibility, such that the entire dasher board assembly can be pushed substantially parallel with and away from the ice. In a third aspect, only the shielding panel is provided with rotational flexibility such that the shielding panel (and its support struts in a supported assembly) will pivot about a point within the dasher board.

Abstract: A user-powered seat uplift apparatus including a structural frame unit, a mechanical uplift assembly unit and a power transfer mechanism connecting the two units allows the user to more easily obtain a standing position from a previous seated position. The structural frame unit is used to support and guide the mechanical uplift assembly unit. The mechanical uplift unit has two sections which can independently move vertically with respect to the structural frame unit. One section has a seat, the other has rails. When downward force is applied on the rails, the section having the rails moves vertically downward and produces an upward force in the section having the seat through the power transfer mechanism. This interface allows the user to more easily uplift themselves from a seated position and is especially useful for older and/or medically disabled persons.

Abstract: An adjustable cycling apparatus including a pedal mechanism which may be adjusted to various horizontal and vertical positions for a more versatile cycling exercise routine. The cycling apparatus includes a frame unit, upon which the pedal mechanism is mounted. The pedal mechanism is collapsible into the frame unit for easy storage. The frame unit supports a seat with adjustable back and arm supports whereby cycling exercise routines may be performed from a comfortable seated position. The back and arm supports may also be lowered to add to the collapsibility of the apparatus.