Abstract: The invention relates to a snowboard binding comprising a base plate (1) and a central plate (6) that is situated in a circular central opening (5) in the center of the base plate (1). The peripheral section of the central plate (6), which tapers towards the snowboard (8), lies against an edge section (9) of the base plate (1), which widens away from the snowboard (8) and is equipped with fixing openings (11) for the fixing elements that fix said plate to the snowboard (8). A locking device (B) on the edge section (9) of the base plate (1) around the central opening (5) locks the central plate (6) in position on the base plate (1), preventing torsion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a snowboard binding for soft boots. The fixing straps can be pivoted by means of a joint from a closed position to an open position close to the opening for entry. The straps are kept in an open position by means of a holding device. The holding power of the holding device stems from the resistance of the joint.

Abstract: Disclosed is a snowboard binding in which the heel strap (5) is fixed to the base plate (1) so as to be pivotable about an axis (6) that extends perpendicular to the base plate (1). Even the center of the lower edge portion of the high-back shell (7) rests against the heel strap (5) in the riding position. A fixing device is provided for fixing the pivot angle of the heel strap (5).

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention, a sports racket includes a racket frame comprising a head portion, handle portion and a throat portion joining the head portion to the handle portion. The racket frame also comprises a self-powered piezoelectric damping system for damping vibrations of the racket during play. The self-powered piezoelectric damping system comprises at least one transducer laminated to the racket and at least one circuit located within the racket handle portion and electrically connected to the at least one transducer.

Abstract: A piezoelectric device having a piezoelectric film and methods of making such. The piezoelectric device can be used in circuits to dampen or dissipate vibrations in equipment such as racquets, and ski apparatus.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to boards for performing skiing such as downhill skis, cross-country skis, snowboards and the like, to a method of stiffening such boards, and a method of manufacturing such boards. More specifically, the present invention relates to a downhill ski comprising electronics for establishing optimal handling and performance characteristics. The board for performing skiing sports of the present invention generally comprises a longitudinally extending body having a longitudinal axis, at least one transducer laminated to the body and converting upon deformation of the body mechanical power to electrical power, and an electrical circuit connected across the transducer.

Abstract: Methods of making certain piezoelectric films are disclosed. For example, a certain method of making piezoelectric films consistent with certain embodiments of the invention can include the steps of obtaining a piezoelectric material, reducing said piezoelectric material to particles, contacting said particles with a flexible matrix material, and applying said matrix material to one or more surfaces of a member.

Abstract: A piezoelectric device having a piezoelectric film and methods of making such. The piezoelectric device can be used in circuits to dampen or dissipate vibrations in equipment such as racquets, and ski apparatus.

Abstract: A piezoelectric device having a piezoelectric film and methods of making such. The piezoelectric device can be used in circuits to dampen or dissipate vibrations in equipment such as racquets, and ski apparatus.

Abstract: A piezoelectric device having a piezoelectric film and methods of making such. The piezoelectric device can be used in circuits to dampen or dissipate vibrations in equipment such as racquets, and ski apparatus.

Abstract: A game racquet for tennis, racquetball, squash and the like, includes a handle having a free end and a racquet head defined by an open loop frame and having no weight heads. A throat connects the racquet head to the handle at an end of the handle opposite the free end thereof, with the open loop frame of the racquet head having a first half remote from the handle and a second half in closer proximity to the handle. A mid-section of the game racquet extends from, and includes, the second half of the open loop frame and the throat, to a point approximately 20 centimeters from the free end of the handle, with the weight of the mid-section of the game racquet being 25%, or less, of the total weight of the game racquet, when in an unstrung condition. In an alternative embodiment, the game racquet includes defining a portion of a closed loop frame of the racquet head.