Abstract: A torsion angle sensor for measuring the torsion angle of two shafts coupled with one another having two planetary gear sets coupled via a shared planet carrier, with the sun gear of each gear set being connected to one of the two shafts respectively; including an arrangement whereby when a torsion angle is created between the two shafts, a movable internal gear of one of the planetary gear sets is rotated corresponding to the torsion angle, with its outer surface driving a sensor gear, which is connected to a rotational position sensor, the output signal of which is proportional to the torsion angle.

Abstract: A torsion angle sensor for measuring the torsion angle of two shafts coupled with one another having two planetary gear sets coupled via a shared planet carrier, with the sun gear of each gear set being connected to one of the two shafts respectively; including an arrangement whereby when a torsion angle is created between the two shafts, a movable internal gear of one of the planetary gear sets is rotated corresponding to the torsion angle, with its outer surface driving a sensor gear, which is connected to a rotational position sensor, the output signal of which is proportional to the torsion angle.

Abstract: A bucket includes a base and a top defining an aperture approximating a perimeter of the base. A wall formed of a flexible material extends between the base and the top. A helical reinforcing member secures to the wall, the base, and the top and includes multiple windings approximating the perimeter of the base. A conducting element secures to the wall having a substantial portion of the conducting element extending proximate the helical reinforcing member. A light source secures to the wall and is electrically coupled to the conducting element. A power source connects to the conducting element to power the light source. A switch may selectively electrically connect the light source to the power source and may be mounted in a grip secured to the handle.

Abstract: Coated footwear and methods for making and using the same. An outer surface of a fabric layer conforming closely to the top, sides, bottom and individual toes of a foot is coated with a material in the areas where the fabric layer conforms closely to the sides, bottom and individual toes of the foot. The fabric layer can be elastic, breathable, ultraviolet light inhibiting, and/or chosen from the class of materials including supplex, spandex, nylon, and nylon/cotton blend. The coating can be textured, chosen from one or more of the class of materials including latex, nitrile, and polyurethane and/or including a chemical agent to insure adhesion of the coating to the outer surface of the fabric layer. The footwear can be made by immersing the fabric layer in a container filled with the coating material. Also, if desired, a second coating can be adhered over the first coating.

Abstract: A multipurpose tool for indoor or outdoor gardening, planting, and soil working, and a method for making the same, are disclosed. The tool and method incorporate the capabilities of scooping, cutting, scraping, loosening, working, furrowing, trenching, digging, removing, and replacing kitchen commodities, household dirt or garden soil; of setting and removing plants; of weeding; and of cutting and removing plant roots and other obstacles found in or around soil. Preferred embodiments of the tool aspect of the invention provide a generally dished blade with a bifurcated pointed tip. At least one serrated blade edge for cutting of roots and other obstacles or debris is provided. The method includes a procedure for loosening, furrowing, digging, and excavating soil with a single tool.