Abstract: A speed change gear transmission providing at least six speed ratios from eight gears, and nine speeds from nine gears. The transmission has an input shaft, an intermediate shaft, and an output shaft. At least three gears are associated with the input and intermediate shafts, and two gears with the output shaft. In the preferred embodiments, the number of gears associated with each shaft is equal, is at least three, and optionally may be four or more. The number of available speed ratios in embodiments having equal numbers of gears on each shaft is equal to the square of the number of gears on any one shaft. Gears of the intermediate shaft are solidly fixed to rotate in tandem. Gears of the input and output shafts are freely rotatable on bearings on their respective shafts, and are splined to engage dog clutches.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for awakening the user during a preset time interval or bracket at the point when, for all intents and purposes, the user is already awake. At certain periods, discernable by, for instance, measurement of resistance through the body, large .DELTA.'s are observed at certain brief periods, especially close to the beginning and end of REM. At these points, it is possible to wake a person with almost no effort at all, and in many cases, the person will be unaware that they even were sleep.