Abstract: A cushion having a sitting surface is provided that includes a three dimensional system of rigid plastic levers used in combination with a foam cushioning material. Weight applied to the cushion is borne by the plastic levers. When sat on, the cushion conforms to the user's body and automatically shapes itself to uniformly distribute support pressure within each of four seat quadrants. As the body shifts in position, the cushion automatically reconfigures itself to maintain substantially uniform pressure distributions. Construction details and a method for low cost manufacture are presented.

Abstract: An automatic transmission for use on a bicycle is mounted on a bracket that is connected to the rear axle of the bicycle. A first chain connects the chain wheel with a sprocket fixed for rotation with the drive pulley of the transmission. A second chain transmits power from a sprocket fixed for rotation with the driven pulley to the rear wheel hub sprocket. A V-belt is used to transmit power between the driven and driven pulleys. Once a predetermined input torque is reached during pedalling, the transmission automatically changes the speed ratio between the chain wheel and the driven rear wheel of the bicycle. The gear ratio continues to change automatically and steplessly in response to increasing torque through the entire range of gear ratio change, which is approximately equal to the range provided by a standard ten speed bicycle. To selectively prevent the transmission from automatically changing the speed ratio, a hold system is provided.

Abstract: An automatic transmission for use on a bicycle is mounted on a bracket that is connected to the rear axle of the bicycle. A first chain connects the chain wheel with a sprocket fixed for rotation with the drive pulley of the transmission. A second chain transmits power from a sprocket fixed for rotation with the driven pulley to the rear wheel hub sprocket. A V-belt is used to transmit power between the drive and driven pulleys. Once a predetermined input torque is reached during pedalling, the transmission automatically changes the speed ratio between the chain wheel and the driven rear wheel of the bicycle. The gear ratio continues to change automatically and steplessly in response to increasing torque through the entire range of gear ratio change, which is approximately equal to the range provided by a standard ten speed bicycle.

Abstract: In an automatic variable speed transmission, expansible pulleys function to change the speed ratio between driving and driven shafts. The pulleys are constructed of segments or arms that are pivoted at one end to swing outwardly. Each arm includes a V-shaped groove for receiving a V-belt. At a minimum diameter, the arms form a composite solid body and at a maximum diameter, when each arm is fully pivoted outwardly, a segmented pulley is formed. Automatic speed ratio change is disclosed in both the forward and reverse direction of rotation by proper combination of the pulleys.

Abstract: In an automatic variable speed transmission, expansible pulleys function to change the speed ratio between driving and driven shafts. The pulleys are constructed in segments or arms that are pivoted at one end to swing outwardly. Each arm includes a V-shaped groove for receiving a V-belt. At a minimum diameter, the arms form a composite solid body and at a maximum diameter, when each arm is fully extended, a segmented pulley is formed. Automatic speed ratio change is disclosed in both the forward and reverse direction of rotation by proper combination of the pulleys.

Abstract: A coupling for use in an apparatus for connecting a prosthesis to the bone of a stump of an amputated limb which permits a bio-compatible carbon sleeve forming a part of the prosthesis connector to float so as to prevent disturbing the skin seal around the carbon sleeve. The coupling includes a flexible member interposed between a socket that is inserted within an intermedullary cavity of the bone and the sleeve. A lock pin is carried by the prosthesis and has a stem portion which is adapted to be coaxially disposed and slideably within the tubular female socket for securing the prosthesis to the stump. The skin around the percutaneous carbon sleeve is able to move as a result of the flexing coupling so as to reduce stresses caused by changes in the stump shape and/or movement between the bone and the flesh portion of the stump.