Abstract: A catheter having a sensor for detecting forces acting on its distal end includes a catheter tube, a chamber defined in the catheter tube. The chamber is filled with silicon gel. The catheter also has a sensor chip and a cap. The sensor has a pressure sensing surface and a backside. The cap transmits the forces acting on the distal end of the catheter tube to the pressure sensing surface of the sensor chip. Further, the catheter has a pressure introducing hole. The pressure introducing hole transmits the forces acting on the periphery of the catheter tube to the backside of the sensor chip. The sensor chip issues signals externally in accordance with the pressures transmitted to its pressure sensing surface and its backside.

Abstract: An insulated covering for building sheathing comprising foam insulation shaped to occupy the area between raised construction panels and the building sheathing and sized to leave narrow air-gaps, horizontally and vertically, between the outside surfaces of the foam insert and inside surfaces of the raised aspects of the construction panel. The panels are secured to the building in a manner that allows the foam insert to float, freely, within the raised panel. The inserts provide the panels with enhanced structural durability and improved insulating qualities. Allowing the insert to float freely within the raised panels prevents annoying noises and panel deformation caused when tight fitting foam insulation expands during rapid temperature changes and warm weather. A foam insert shaped to accomodate simulated shake roof aluminum roofing panels is illustrated.

Abstract: An improved water sports board having a low density high strength elongated core surrounded by a contoured exterior layer formed of soft resilient non-permeable material. The elongated core, substantially rectangular in plan shape and cross-section, tapering forward and aft, and constructed of low density light weight material covered by a high-strength composite skin, renders the board light and strong, and promotes controlled flexion, resilience, durability and maneuverability. The soft, resilient exterior layer forms the board's outer shape, promoting performance and rendering the board safe and comfortable to ride. Alternative embodiments in which the core contains of one or more cavities filled with gas, the pressure of which gas can be selectively varied before or during use, are also described.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for drilling, cracking, and withdrawing solid each cores, the method commencing with coring the earth using a conventional rotary core drill (20). The core drill is withdrawn to leave an attached earth core (26) and a drilled core groove (24). A hydraulically powered core cracker assembly (40) sized to fit the drilled groove is screwed into the groove. A ram drawer (44) built into the cracker assembly is activated to break off the earth core at its base. The cracker assembly is then withdrawn and a hydraulically powered core grabber/remover assembly (70) sized to fit the drilled groove is screwed into the groove, activated to engage the earth core, and hoisted to remove the earth core from the drill hole. Preferred embodiments of the core cracker and core grabber/remover assemblies are described.

Abstract: A method for securing residential and low rise commercial structures during periods of high wind employing mooring apparatus having a mooring cable (20), a ground anchor (22), and a tightening means (24). One end of the mooring cable (20) is permanently attached to a structural roof member, the remainder being stowed with the tightening means (24) in a roof housing (26). The ground anchor (22) is strategically installed exterior to the structure. Prior to the onset of a hurricane or other high wind condition, the mooring cable (20) is released from its roof housing (26), detachably fastened to the ground anchor (22), and made taught using the tightening means (24). A number of mooring apparatus are used to secure a given structure. Different ways of housing the stowed mooring cable in different types of structures are described.

Abstract: An improved harness line apparatus for windsurf and other wind propelled vehicles having an elongated U-shaped curvilinear harness line made of stiff and resilient material. The ends of the stiff harness line are firmly secured to selected points along a wishbone configured boom to withstand gravitational and inertial forces. The harness line extends from the boom towards the sailor and is curved downward such that the middle of the harness line is in close proximity to but just below the harness hook when the sailing vehicle is upright and the sailor is positioned upright on the vehicle. As the sailor leans back into the wind, the sail and boom are rotated about a mast-hull pivot, but the relative positioning of harness line to harness hook is preserved. An improved length adjustable harness line is disclosed as are two improved versions of detachable harness lines.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of a Globba hybrid characterized by pink bracts and mostly transparent bracteoles with yellow green and streaked with red purple as within the inflorescence. The foliage displays reddish underleaves.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of a Globba hybrid characterized by dark pink bracts and cranberry colored bracteoles as within the inflorescence. The foliage displays reddish underleaves.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of a Globba hybrid characterized by a two-tone blend of pink and white bracts with mostly transparent bracteoles with pink streaking and yellow green tips as within the inflorescence. The foliage displays reddish underleaves.