Abstract: Method and apparatus for automotive tire condition and other article assessment is based upon radiation analysis of a rotated tire. Analysis of reflected radiation on the basis of intensity sensing provides a measure of tread depth and sidewall profile, together with tread location and other data. By positional analysis of the tread depth locations there is provided complementary information on the tread wear pattern. Sidewall profile determination enables identification of other tire condition factors. Tread depth and sidewall profile are also determined by laser or other radiation line image displacement techniques and a mounting system is provided for the apparatus enabling determinations to be made without the use of a roller bed. Proper positional alignment of the wheel to the apparatus is determined by means of a reference datum derived from reflected radiation within the apparatus.

Abstract: A metal wood golf clubhead has a length "L" representing the distance, measured perpendicular to the centerline, between the heel and toe; a rearmost point that lies at a distance "A", measured perpendicular to said centerline, from the heel; and a rear edge having a radius of curvature R2, in the region of the rearmost point. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the distance "A" from the heel to the rearmost point on the clubhead rear edge is at least 60 mm and/or at least 56% of the overall clubhead length "L". In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the clubhead has a volume of at least 180 cm.sup.3, the center of curvature of the rear edge, in the region of the rearmost point, is offset from the club's centerline CL toward the toe, and the radius of curvature R2 in the region of the rearmost point is less than 41 mm. The club has a geometry where the body curves relatively sharply beyond the toe end of the face to extend rearwardly.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for freon and other refrigerant matching, particularly for servicing of air conditioning systems for automotive applications. The matching process is based upon the comparison of resistance or infrared absorption or other data readings of a gas-sensing resistance or infrared absorption or other transducer applied to the refrigerant fluid under test and corresponding data from reference refrigerants.

Abstract: A grommet member for use with a sports racquet comprises a grommet strip from which a plurality of hollow grommet pegs project for receiving racquet strings. The strip additionally includes at least grommet having at least two holes for receiving a pair of strings. Preferably, such grommet is either a multi-hole grommet or a triple hole grommet. The holes of the multi-hole grommet may be disposed on opposite sides of the grommet strip axis or alternately along the axis. In one embodiment, the multi-hole grommet includes a notch extending from its distal end partially towards said grommet strip to divide the end of the grommet into a pair of separate barrels, each barrel containing one of the two string holes Multi-hole grommets can be used to replace the shared grommet hole presently used on some sports racquets, in which the hole receives two racquet strings, i.e., either a cross-string and main string, or a main or cross-string and a tie-off string end.

Abstract: A sports racquet includes grommet members anchoring the strings in at least the central regions of the string bed which include grommet pegs which have grommet holes that, in cross-section, are elongated in a direction perpendicular to the string bed, and preferably include notches at their distal end. The slotted grommets and notches allow the strings to deflect, in a direction perpendicular to the string bed, upon ball impact. The strings are anchored only outside of the frame proper, and their effective string length is thus substantially increased. Preferably, the grommet members include a concave lip to act as a string guide, adjacent the grommet hole entrance to prevent string movement as it enters the slot. Preferably, the sidewalls of the grommet holes are spaced slightly farther apart than the width of the string so that the string can deflect freely upon ball impact with the string bed. The string hugs one of sidewalls, however, so that vibrations are damped after the ball has left the string bed.

Abstract: The present invention is a racquetball racquet that is substantially longer than a conventional 21 inch racquet, but which has a maneuverability comparable to existing racquets, and on overall playability exceeding conventional 21 inch racquetball racquets. More particularly, a racquetball racquet comprises a frame having a head portion, a handle connected to the head portion, and stringing. The head portion is a thin-wall, hollow composite tubular member having a minimum weight per unit length, and has a cross-sectional height between 15 and 28 mm, a cross-sectional width between 9 and 13 mm, and defines an egg shape strung surface having a length of at least 14 inches, and preferably between 14 and 15.5 inches, and a strung surface area greater than 95 square inches, and preferably between 100 and 125 square inches. The racquet has an overall length that is substantially greater than 21.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for non-contact evaluation of wheel alignment for vehicles utilizes laser-based range-finders mounted at locations between which the vehicle is driven for test purposes. Range-finding at three locations on the wheel enables wheel attitude to be determined. Locations are chosen so that range-finding is carried out where a significant contour in the wheel assembly occurs, thereby enabling a clear and characteristic signal to be obtained from relatively simple apparatus.

Abstract: A sports racquet, preferably a tennis racquet, includes an open throat frame in which at least most of the head portion has an aerodynamic cross-section, and at least most of the shaft portions have a box-like cross-section, the two regions being connected by a morph region for smoothly blending the cross-section of one region into the cross-section of the other region. Preferably, the morph region extends from the throat bridge toward the racquet tip, and the transition from the box-like cross-section to the aerodynamic cross-section occurs over a distance of less than 15% of the overall racquet length and substantially simultaneously with the merging of the ends of the throat bridge into the head portion of the racquet.

Abstract: A retention device for use with an object having a handle, such as a racquetball racquet, comprises a wrist ring for securing the device about a wrist of a person gripping the handle, an elastomeric connecting member, and a securing means remote from said ring for securing said device to a handle. In one preferred embodiment, the ring and connecting member are elastomeric loops linked together. Alternatively, the ring and connecting member may be a unitary piece formed of elastomeric material, and the securing means is in the form of a loop portion or other securing means at the remote end of the connecting member. The connecting loop or loop portion are preferably secured by a pin inside the butt of the racquet handle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for analysis of brakes in automotive vehicles, and related aspects of engine performance and like applications, senses heat energy which is generated internally of an article to be analysed. Spot-type infra-red thermometers are employed to sense localised temperature elevation produced by brake application from a remote location using visual positioning guides to enable the spot zones sensed to be accurately located on, for example, wheel nuts/studs, which provide a thermal transfer route from the brake drums or discs. Analysis of the thermal data from the sensors includes a peak detect-and-hold function to avoid the need for maintenance of accurate alignment of the sensors. Comparison of the thermal data enables detection of braking imbalance.

Abstract: A handle for a sports implement comprises a handle portion having an outer surface containing a decorative design. A grip sleeve made of a relatively thin, translucent, and preferably transparent, elastomeric material, is sized to cover the handle portion and be in frictional contact therewith, such that said decorative design shows clearly through. In the case of sports racquets, the handle portion may be formed either by a pallet on the racquet shaft, or by a molded-in handle.

Abstract: A sports racquet has a head portion with an elliptical cross-section in which the major axis is oriented parallel to the string plane. Preferably, the racquet includes a pair of converging throat frame members, and a throat bridge, which also have elliptical cross-sections oriented parallel to the string plane. As an alternative to a conventional throat bridge, in which some of the main strings are secured to the sides of the frame, a power ring, which bows inwardly toward the strung surface, spans the throat area, and supports the all the main strings, which are wrapped therearound. The racquet provides improved playability for hitting spin shots, by reducing wind resistance and reducing the minimum required angle of incidence (making it easier to hit the ball). Also, the hoop strength of the racquet is increased, which is particularly advantageous when using a power ring, which needs to provide tension to all the main strings.

Abstract: A sports racquet, e.g., a tennis racquet, has an elastomeric pallet that slides onto the racquet shaft. The pallet is formed preferably with a pair of opposed axially extending guides formed on opposed interior surfaces of the pallet. Each guide defines a pawl member. The racquet shaft includes a pair of guide grooves, to receive a respective guide and pawl member, and each groove contains a mating ratchet member. When the pallet slides on the shaft, the guides slide along the guide grooves, until the pawl members and ratchet members engage, which locks the pallet at a predetermined position on the shaft against reverse movement. Due to the fact that the pallet can be easily mounted on the shaft, without the need for adhesive or mechanical fasteners, retailers can carry separate inventories of pallets and racquets, and the customer can select the desired pallet model and handle size at the time of purchase.

Abstract: A sports racquet includes a power ring, spanning the throat region of the head, which has an arcuate bearing surface facing away from the outer head portion of the racquet. The bearing surface bows in the direction of the stringing area. The lower ends of the main strings wrap about the bearing surface of the power ring, and the strings extend outwardly in a fan shape configuration to frame. The power ring has the effect of shortening the center strings, and lengthening the outlying main strings, so that the power provided by the strings is more uniform over the string bed.

Abstract: A tennis racquet has an overall length greater than 28 inches, preferably between 29 and 32 inches, an egg shape strung surface having a length of at least 14 inches, and a strung surface area greater than 95 square inches. The frame is of widebody construction and formed of a composite material so as to have a minimum weight per unit length. While the overall length is increased, the strung weight of the racquet does not exceed 300 grams, and the mass moment of inertia about the butt does not exceed 56 g-m.sup.2. The foregoing racquet produces a number of playing advantages, while maintaining a conventional mass moment of inertia about the handle and thus retain good maneuverability.

Abstract: A monoshaft tennis racquet has a frame head that circumscribes a stringing area, and a shaft connected to the opposite ends of the head. Either the head or the shaft, and preferably both, are formed of a composite material. The racquet preferably has a head having a length of at least 12 inches, a maximum width of at least 9 inches, and a strung surface area of at least 90 square inches. Preferably also, the free space vibrational frequency perpendicular to the stringing plane is matched to the in-plane vibration frequency so as to provide a unique and desirable feel in the racquet. Preferably, the vibration frequency perpendicular to the stringing plane is within 10% of the in-plane vibration frequency, and most preferably within 5%.

Abstract: A tennis racquet has a frame which includes a frame head portion with an outwardly facing stringing groove and an inwardly facing surface which is generally convex. The stringing groove includes a pair of angled side wall surfaces. A series of stringing holes extend through each side wall surface and the opposing convex surface to define holes for a pair of generally parallel stringing surfaces. Preferably, the string holes extend at an angle of about 45.degree. relative to the central plane of the stringing area, and the angled surfaces in the stringing groove, and the opposing surface on the convex surface, are parallel to one another and generally perpendicular to the direction of the string hole.

Abstract: A tennis racquet has string holes which lie alternately on opposite sides of the center plane completely around the racquet head. Except in the corners, the cross string holes, and the upper main strings holes, are located at a constant offset distance of 4.5 millimeters (mm) away from the center plane of the frame. The corner string holes and remaining lower main string holes, which mainly lie in the throat bridge, all have a constant reduced stagger of 2 mm.