Abstract: A composite fiber-resin structural member includes a composite fiber-resin tube having a central axis, and an elongated truss. The truss has a longitudinal axis and includes at least two wires and a plurality of diametral carbon fibers which forms circular bundles around the wires. The truss fits within the fiber-resin tubing such that the central axis of the fiber-resin tubing and the longitudinal axis of the truss are coaxial. The diametral fibers are connected to the fiber-resin tubing with resin, and are of substantially equal length from the longitudinal axis of the truss. Preferably, at least one of the wires of the truss is mechanically textured to include a consistent and repeating distortion along at least a portion of its length.

Abstract: A mechanical bug includes a housing; a gear mechanism within the housing; and at least six legs extending from the housing, each leg having a first end operationally associated with the gear mechanism such that movement of the gear mechanism also moves the leg. The at least three legs move backward in a flat plane while at least three other legs arch upward and forward before returning again in the flat plane, causing the mechanical bug to remain level and steady as the mechanical bug walks forward.

Abstract: A composite fiber-resin structural member includes a composite fiber-resin tube having a central axis, and an elongated truss. The truss has a longitudinal axis and includes at least two wires and a plurality of diametral carbon fibers which forms circular bundles around the wires. The truss fits within the fiber-resin tubing such that the central axis of the fiber-resin tubing and the longitudinal axis of the truss are coaxial. The diametral fibers are connected to the fiber-resin tubing with resin, and are of substantially equal length from the longitudinal axis of the truss. Preferably, at least one of the wires of the truss is mechanically textured to include a consistent and repeating distortion along at least a portion of its length.

Abstract: A paint roller assembly includes an elongated shaft, an articulated paint application assembly disposed at one end of the shaft, and an actuator connected to the articulated paint application assembly and extending through the shaft to a handle at an opposite end of the shaft. A portion of the shaft adjacent to the articulated paint assembly is angled to facilitate wetting of the roller with paint. The articulated assembly includes a roller frame interconnected between a joint mechanism and a roller supporting cage. The actuator includes a rod interconnected between the handle and a joint mechanism of the articulated paint application assembly. The joint mechanism provides rotational movement of the roller frame. In one form of the invention, the joint mechanism includes a universal joint. In another form, the joint mechanism includes miter gears.