Abstract: A zipper is provided wherein at least one stringer has a row of coupling elements presenting a variable visual appearance along the coupled length of the zipper. The zipper has improved aural, tactile or visual aesthetics, and is more difficult to counterfeit.

Abstract: A compact push-pull exercise apparatus having a partial turn outer cam surface in contact with a random surface such as a floor, and one or more handles rotatably mounted to the cam rotational axis. The operator begins an exercise cycle in the kneeling position with hands on the handles and with arms generally near the vertical position. The operator pushes the apparatus forward to a stopping position with the operator nearly prone. During the first portion of the forward movement, gravitational energy is stored as the cam rotational axis is lifted. As the operator reverses the movement from the prone position to the kneeling position, gravitational energy is released during the first portion of the in-stroke to ease the return motion during the most difficult portion of the exercise cycle.

Abstract: A zipper including two stringers, each stringer having a row of coupling elements having a plurality of coupling element spacings, and at least one stringer having a plurality of coupling element widths.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a sheath/core shoelace having enhanced knot retention and to the method of manufacture.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and frictive fluid composition for application to a shoelace knot, whereby the shoelace becomes more resistant to untying. The frictive fluid contains a volatile solvent and a frictive powder.

Abstract: A zipper including two stringers, each stringer having a row of coupling elements having a plurality of coupling element spacings, and at least one stringer having a plurality of coupling element widths.

Abstract: A compact lubricant reservoir for a bearing housing is provided whereby visual inspection of the reservoir indicates the level of lubricant reserve.

Abstract: The main rotor of a helicopter is driven by an epicyclic gearbox comprising a rotor sun gear coaxial and co-rotational with the rotor, a stationary sun gear coaxial with the rotor sun gear, at least one planet having an axis parallel to and rotating about the sun gear axis, and making contact with both sun gears. The planet comprises first and second planetary coaxial gears mechanically constrained to rotate together. The first planetary gear is in meshing engagement with the stationary sun gear and the second planetary gear is in meshing engagement with the rotor sun gear. The first planetary gear is also in meshing engagement with the internal teeth of a first ring gear and the second planetary gear is also in meshing engagement with the internal teeth of a second ring gear. The first and second ring gears are separately driven, and torque is combined by the planets.

Abstract: The various embodiments of the invention are directed to a golf club head having an adjustable loft, wherein the loft angle is hydrodynamically locked during impact of the club head with the ball.