Abstract: An apparatus is provided for guide bars used in cutting operations, and more particularly to prolonging the life of the nose sprocket and/or reducing the tendency of guide bar separation in the nose sprocket region, by reconfiguring the nose sprocket outer race and/or the cutting chain drive tang.

Abstract: The present invention combines into a single housing a multiplicity of features that may be used separately or together to facilitate stress reduction in the user. A central computer receives inputs and sends signals to facilitate activation of a visual display as well as an audio output. Several power supply options are provided. A pulse sensor may be attached to the user to sense their pulse rate. The audio input provides a soothing noise such as a beating sound, the frequency of which may be adjusted, for example, 30 to 120 beats per minute. A voice synthesizer may speak directions to the user such as, for example, instructing the user to breathe in and out at a certain rate. A timer and speed control permit ready adjustment of the frequency of beats as well as the frequency during which voice synthesizer messages are provided. A microphone and tape recorder allow the user to tape record their own stress reducing instructions.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for guide bars used in cutting operations, and more particularly to prolonging the life of the nose sprocket and/or reducing the tendency of guide bar separation in the nose sprocket region, by reconfiguring the nose sprocket outer race and/or the cutting chain drive tangs.