Abstract: An apparatus for isolating the abdominal muscles and effectively loading them during exercise is disclosed. The device supports the user's body in a position which allows for trunk flexion; however, it forces the user's knee flexor and hip extensor muscles to contract, relaxing the hip flexor muscle, and isolating the abdominal muscles. Consequently, the only muscles exercised during the trunk flexion are the abdominal muscles.

Abstract: A constant force load for use in an exercising apparatus. The load includes a frame, an energy storage unit coupled to the frame and capable of exerting a force on an external element when storing energy therein, a cam for making the force transmitted from that exerted by the energy storage means constant, and force transmission means for changing the constant transmitted force. The load further includes an output force modifying assembly for making the output force constant.

Abstract: This invention discloses a two-way tilting mechanism for use with infant bassinettes. It is comprised of a pivotable support adapted to receive an infant bassinette, a base upon which the support is pivotably mounted, a single-action pivoting mechanism connecting the support to the base, locking means for holding the support in a tilted position, and means for releasing the locking means.

Abstract: An improved coupling assembly between an actuating member and a shaft is disclosed. It is comprised of locking means on the actuating member for engaging with the shaft in order to secure the actuating member thereto. In addition, an actuating means for actuating the locking means to allow removal of the actuating member is provided. Groove and key means between the actuating member and the shaft is provided to allow the member to be removed longitudinally thereof while preventing rotation of the member about the shaft when the locking means is engaged with the shaft.