Abstract: A frictionless transport apparatus for transporting an object from a first to a second station is disclosed. The apparatus has a frame extending between the first and second stations and a carriage mounted for movement along said frame, in a levitated condition. A substantial portion of the weight of the carriage and load is supported by biasing magnets on the frame and carriage. The carriage and load are stabilized in a levitated condition by magnetic interactions between a diamagnetic plate on the carriage and a magnetic array extending along the frame. The carriage is moved in its levitated condition by a frictionless drive system, such as an electromagnetic, electrostatic, or pneumatic drive system. Also disclosed is a method of frictionless transport of an object between first and second stations.

Abstract: This is a clipless pedal system for bicycles. It includes a pedal platform and two cleat retainers. The cleat retainers have hooked ends and are held against opposite sides of the pedal platform. A resilient loop encircles the pedal platform, holding the cleat retainers against the pedal platform. The ends of the cleat retainers may pivot away form the pedal platform by elastic deformation of the loop, allowing insertion of a cleat attached to a cycling shoe.

Abstract: A clipless pedal system for bicycles includes a pedal platform and two cleat retainers. The cleat retainers have hooked ends and are held against opposite sides of the pedal platform. A resilient loop encircles the pedal platform, holding the cleat retainers against the pedal platform. The ends of the cleat retainer may pivot away from the pedal platform by elastic deformation of the loop, allowing insertion of a cleat attached to a cycling shoe.

Abstract: A thumb actuated latch retracting mechanism, for mounting with a grip handle on a door, includes a thumbpiece, the thumbpiece having a laterally offset cam on a second end thereof; an escutcheon plate having an opening through which the second end of the thumbpiece and the cam protrude into a door preparation cavity; and provision within the cavity for retracting a latchbolt in response to pressing the thumbpiece, the provision including a chassis mounted to the escutcheon and containing further provisions for converting linear motion of the thumbpiece cam to rotary motion of a spindle for retracting the latchbolt. The chassis also has tabs which act as barbs to hold the handle and mechanism against the door when pushed into mounting position and to simplify installation.

Abstract: An improved compressor wheel assembly for a a turbocharger or the like includes a centrifugal compressor wheel having a boreless hub to substantially improve wheel fatigue life. The compressor wheel is formed as by casting from an aluminum alloy to include an integral mounting sleeve extending coaxially from the boreless hub and adapted for connection as by threading with a turbocharger shaft. An annular spacer ring of wear resistant material is mounted on the wheel mounting sleeve and defines wear resistant surfaces for supporting one or more seal rings within the bore of a compressor backplate opening, and for axially engaging an adjacent thrust bearing unit associated with the turbocharger shaft.