Abstract: A control valve for a pressurized fluid-operated system, such as a marine power steering system, includes a housing having an inlet and at least one outlet, with one or more work ports located therebetween. Pressurized fluid is supplied to the inlet, and a spool member is mounted within the housing for controlling the supply of pressurized fluid to a work-performing system, such as the extendible and retractable rod of a hydraulic cylinder assembly. The spool member includes structure for blocking the one or more work ports when the spool member is in its neutral position, when it is desired not to operate the system. This prevents the cylinder from being exposed to reservoir fluid when the spool member is in its neutral position.

Abstract: A collar that fits on the bar of a barbell to prevent weights from sliding off the bar. Two semi-circular sections of the collar are hinged together at one end of the sections to permit closure of the sections about the bar and a toggle linkage is mounted on the other ends of the section to hold the collar closed about the bar. Neoprene pads are affixed to the inner peripheries of the sections to grip the bar and prevent movement of weights thereon when the collar is mounted on the bar. The collar can be mounted on the bar or removed therefrom without moving the collar over the end of the bar so that weights can be placed on the bar while the collar is in place and subsequently secured by moving the collar and a weight can be removed from the bar by moving the collar to a position in which the weight is between the collar and the end of the bar prior to moving the weight off the end of the bar.