Abstract: The radial/rotary propulsion system of the present invention features a flywheel having concentric rings of permanent magnets attached to one or both sides or embedded into the flywheel. These permanent magnets interact with DC powered electromagnets which, when selectively energized, impart rotary motion to the flywheel. By arranging the permanent magnets in concentric rings, better control of both speed and torques may be obtained. In addition, in a regenerative mode, inertia of the flywheel is reconverted to electrical energy by either additional permanent magnet/coil combinations or through the switching of the electromagnet coils normally used for rotating the flywheel. A controller/sequencer constantly receives input signals for throttle, braking, flywheel rotational position, and battery level, and in response provides signals to control activation of electromagnets for drive, braking, and regeneration.

Abstract: A rotational drive device that provides both variable levels of adjustable rotational resistance and also selective direction in which the resistance acts. The device has two mutually rotatable members each having a grasping handle. One member has a shaft serving as an axle for rotatably supporting the second member. A nut threads to the end of the shaft. When tightened, the nut imparts axially compressive forces urging the two rotatable members towards one another. The base rotatable member has a ramped member facing a corresponding opposed ramped member rotatably supported on the shaft. When the ramped members are rotated relative to one another, overall axial length of the base member is adjusted. This adjustment selectively modifies resistance to rotation of the rotatable members. A clutch device selectively transmits resistance forces when one rotatable member is rotated relative to the other in a first direction, in a second direction, and in both directions.

Abstract: A dynamic tensioner that exhibits direction responsive, adjustable, rotational resistance. The tensioner is particularly suited for use in exercise equipment to provide physiological sculpting. A ratcheting mechanism is combined with an adjustable resistance bearing to provide a specific resistance in a first rotational direction, and almost no resistance in the opposite rotational direction, based on the position of a selector switch. Two of the tensioners can be used to provide adjustable resistance in both rotational directions. When two of the tensioners are used, the ratcheting mechanisms can be set to work oppositely to allow adjustable resistance in both directions, or set to work together for increased adjustable resistance in one direction and free movement in the opposite direction. Various embodiments of the adjustable resistance bearing are envisioned. An exercise bar and an exercising leg or arm brace, using the dynamic tensioner of the present invention are also disclosed.

Abstract: A skate having simultaneously retracted front and rear wheels. A retraction mechanism mounted below the show includes a linkage member yoked to all wheels. The retraction member includes cams or ramps which guide the wheels to move in an inclined direction, thereby retracting into the housing of the retraction mechanism and extending below the housing. When retracted, only the flat bottom surface of the housing is exposed below the housing. A linkage member rotated by a key disposed at the heel of the shoe moves the wheels along the ramps in tandem.

Abstract: A hand-held power saw has a main housing and two guide housings telescopically interactive with the main housing and having facing open distal extremities. A motor and associated drive pulley are associated with the main housing. Paired idle and alignment rollers are disposed within the guide housings. An endless abrasive wire rope is centrally disposed within the main and guide housings in contact with the drive pulley and paired rollers. The region of the wire rope extending between the facing distal extremities of the guide housings is employed to cut a workpiece.