Abstract: A martial arts striking device and method of use that overcomes the relatively hard force impact and resistance disadvantages of all prior striking devices for martial arts, boxing, and physical fitness by allowing visibly targeted “non-force impact” (meaning relatively less forceful impact) striking at relatively “non-resistant contact” targets to enhance speed and power while using less effort. Said striking targets can be substantial in size and made of a lightweight flexible material or fabric that reacts with a spontaneous refresh rate when struck, thereby simulating a live opponent. Said striking targets can be easily suspended from a variety of existing structures or specially produced frames and supports to form familiar punching bag shapes, enclosures, or to simulate being surrounded by multiple opponents. In contrast to prior art objects, said striking device is light in weight, easier to mount, noiseless when used, and suitable for safe home use.

Abstract: A martial arts striking device and method of use that overcomes the relatively hard force impact and resistance disadvantages of all prior striking devices for martial arts, boxing, and physical fitness by allowing visibly targeted “non-force impact” (meaning relatively less forceful impact) striking at relatively “non-resistant contact” targets to enhance speed and power while using less effort. Said striking targets can be substantial in size and made of a lightweight flexible material or fabric that reacts with a spontaneous refresh rate when struck, thereby simulating a live opponent. Said striking targets can be easily suspended from a variety of existing structures or specially produced frames and supports to form familiar punching bag shapes, enclosures, or to simulate being surrounded by multiple opponents. In contrast to prior art objects, said striking device is light in weight, easier to mount, noiseless when used, and suitable for safe home use.

Abstract: A martial arts striking device and method of use that overcomes the relatively hard force impact and resistance disadvantages of all prior striking devices for martial arts, boxing, and physical fitness by allowing visibly targeted “non-force impact” (meaning relatively less forceful impact) striking at relatively “non-resistant contact” targets to enhance speed and power while using less effort. Said striking targets can be substantial in size and made of a lightweight flexible material or fabric that reacts with a spontaneous refresh rate when struck, thereby simulating a live opponent. Said striking targets can be easily suspended from a variety of existing structures or specially produced frames and supports to form familiar punching bag shapes, enclosures, or to simulate being surrounded by multiple opponents. In contrast to prior art objects, said striking device is light in weight, easier to mount, noiseless when used, and suitable for safe home use.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a buffer tube. The system includes a crosshead that coats at least one optical fiber with a buffer tube coating; a vat that includes a fluid, the fluid within the vat cooling the buffer tube coating to form a buffer tube, and the vat being provided downstream of the crosshead; a pulling roller that pulls the cooled buffer tube, the pulling roller being provided downstream of the vat; and a jet provided within the vat. The jet jets a jetting fluid against the buffer tube coating so as to compresses the buffer tube coating in a region downstream of the jet.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: A core for casting a metal part having a body with solid portions spaced apart by hollow portions. The body includes at least one support element extending between adjacent solid portions. The support element provides stiffness and strength for the casting core during the casting process. The support element has an optimized shape to prevent the core from fracturing during the casting process and to minimize operating stress in the metal part around the area formed by the support element.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a base having a concave recess in its top surface adapted to receive a resilient ball and at least one attachment point for removably attaching an elastic band. The elastic band has a handhold attached to its end that can be grasped by a user to perform a desired exercise regimen.