Abstract: A constant velocity plunging joint is disclosed that includes an outer joint part having a cylindrical hollow chamber with an aperture at a first end, which cylindrical hollow chamber, at its other end, is closed by a base and in which there are formed uniformly circumferentially distributed, longitudinally extending tracks; an inner joint part which is positioned centrally in the cylindrical hollow chamber of the outer joint part so as to be angularly movable and longitudinally displaceable; and torque transmitting elements which, in the direction of rotation, are form-fittingly connected to the inner joint part and which, in the direction of rotation, engage the tracks of the outer joint part from-fittingly and so as to roll therein in the longitudinal direction; wherein, at the open end of the outer joint part, the end face is provided with caulkings which form raised portions reducing the free inner cross-section of the -cylindrical hollow chamber; wherein an assembly consisting of the inner joint part an

Abstract: A universal, joint (300) includes a centering device (110) for supporting the universal joint and forcing the two joint halves to operate at the same angle thereby causing the joint to operate at constant velocity at all angles. Each shaft (115, 116) of the joint (300) is connected to the centering device (110). Movement of one of the shafts (115, 116) at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the coupling device (317) is transmitted to the other shaft (116, 115) by the centering device (110) and the centering device (110) causes the other shaft (116, 115) to likewise move at the same angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the coupling device (317). The centering device (110) includes a cam bearing (cam 101) longitudinally aligned with a cam bearing (cam 102), which arrangement of cam bearings allows a full range of movement of the shafts (115, 116).

Abstract: The invention relates to a drive assembly comprising a constant velocity fixed joint 1 with an outer part 4 provided with a flange 7, and a damping element 3 in the form of a ring. The damping element 3 is arranged between the flange 7 and, respectively, the flange-like portion of a cover 19 closing the outer part 4 and the attaching part 20. The damping element 3 includes an aluminum material whose modulus of elasticity greatly deviates from that of the outer part 4, so that any structure-borne sound vibrations originating from the drive end, for example from a drive unit of a motor vehicle, cannot be transmitted from the attaching part 20 into the driveline which includes the constant velocity fixed joint 1. In this way, vehicle comfort is improved.

Abstract: A play set constructed for recreational use, having a structure resembling an excavator backhoe machine comprising tracks, an elevated platform play area, a cab with simulated controls mounted above the tracks, a counterweight attached to the rear of the play area, a main boom extending upward from the front of the play area having monkey bars spaced apart on the bottom side of the main boom and swings hanging from a horizontal portion of the main boom, a slide attached to a side of the elevated platform play area extending outward away from the play set, and a stick attached to an upper end of the main boom extending downward with a bucket attached to the end of the stick, the lower end of the bucket resting on the ground. The elevated platform play area includes an opening in the floor for entrance to the play area from beneath the play set. The structure may be made of wood, plastic, metal or combinations thereof.

Abstract: An open top swing which includes a frame and mounting housings. A swing assembly depends from the pivot pins and includes a pair of spaced legs to which a swing is releasably attached for moving the swing closer to or away from the pivot pins to permit a change in the swing speed and the distance of the arcuate path that the swing will travel.

Abstract: A jump tip apparatus for pool cues having a ferrule end for releasable securement to the tip end of a pool cue in longitudinal alignment with the pool cue, and a resilient striking end in longitudinal alignement with the ferrule end. The resilient striking end having an annular ring on the striking end, with a concave depression extending within the annular ring. The striking end of the jump tip apparatus having a tapered angular profile extending exteriorily from the annular ring towards the ferrule end. The ferrule end of the jump tip apparatus may have external or internal threads sized to threadably engage existing threads on the tip end of the pool cue. Alternately, the ferrule end may be rigid or resilient, with an internal aperture sized to receive the tip end of the pool cue therein.

Abstract: A golfing aid for maintaining a true arc in a golf swing. Attached to the shaft of the club is a guide member which projects from the club and has on it a tip, which during the initial part of the downswing and the final part of the follow-through contacts the radial side of the leading forearm. The contact provides a positive tactile feedback to avert wrist cocking and encourages radial deviation of the wrist instead thereby encouraging the maintenance of a true arc in the downswing and follow through.

Abstract: A putter construction comprising a shaft attached at an angle to a club face. The shaft being provided with a grip having an angled end extension handle that is adapted to extend in a parallel orientation with the bottom of the club face. The handle is provided with a snap fitting at the tip end for holding a pencil that allows the user to use the pencil as an alignment pointer, and further includes an arrow alignment pointer on an under surface thereof that has a 180 degree range of rotation between two perpendicular orientations with the end portion of the handle.

Abstract: A golf putter is provided. The putter is made of a substantially large (between 25 and 45 mm diameter) parallel thin walled shaft wherein part of the bare shaft forms the grip. A protruding curved end cap forms part of the grip to assist in consistency of positioning the hands when taking a grip of the putter. A thin walled end plate closes off the shaft to the putter head all being designed to maximize “feel” when stroking the ball.

Abstract: A golf club head, and more specifically a hosel for a golf club head, and a method of angularly orienting a golf club shaft relative to a golf club head. The hosel defines a hollow interior for receiving a golf club shaft through an opening, generally along a central longitudinal axis of the hollow interior. The hollow interior is bounded by a wall adjacent the opening, preferably including a substantially planar or flat portion.

Abstract: A golf club head is described having a unique sole configuration in which there are three separately identifiable planar regions angularly inclined to each other defining a substantially V-shaped ridge formed at the interfaces of the planar surfaces with one another. The apex of the V-shaped ridge is formed into a peak. The sole configuration allows a greater margin of error or deviation in the swing of the golfer from the ideal swing plane, so that there is a greater chance of producing an effective golf shot using the club head of the present invention.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-layer structure golf ball having a thread rubber layer, which has good shot feel and controllability as well as satisfactory flight performance and cut resistance. The golf ball includes a thread wound core and a cover covering the thread wound core, wherein the cover is formed from a heated mixture of: (A) an ionomer resin, (B) a thermoplastic elastomer having a carboxyl group or a thermoplastic elastomer having a terminal OH group, and (C) a block copolymer having a styrene-butadiene-styrene structure in which the polybutadiene block contains epoxy groups, or a block copolymer having styrene-isoprene-styrene structure in which the polyisoprene block contains epoxy groups, the cover has a flexural modulus of from 50 to 300 MPa and a Shore D-scale hardness of from 40 to 60.

Abstract: In a multi-piece solid golf ball comprising a solid core, an enclosure layer, an intermediate layer, and a cover, the core has a deflection of 2.5-7.0 mm under a load of 100 kg, the cover has a Shore D hardness of 53-65, and the Shore D hardness of the cover is higher than that of the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer and the cover are formed mainly of thermoplastic resins of the same type and either one contains an inorganic filler. The ball has improved resilience, durability and a soft pleasant feel.

Abstract: A self-illuminated hop scotch game including a hop scotch playing field defined by a plurality of spaces arranged in a predetermined order. Each of the spaces have an outer periphery with a border disposed thereon. The border is coated with a fluorescent material. A plurality of playing pieces are provided with each having a generally circular configuration. Each of the playing pieces are comprised of a soft exterior surface with an interior filled with beans.

Abstract: A method and playing field for a competitive paintball game that increases the amount of action occurring during the game period. The playing surface for the paintball competition includes a pair of goals located near opposite end lines of the playing surface, each of which is defended by an opposing team. The playing surface is divided into a plurality of individual zones and includes a series of field bunkers positioned along the playing surface. The paintball competition is played for a predetermined game time divided into separate periods. During each period, each of the opposing teams attempts to carry their flag through the opposing team's goal before being shot by a paintball from the opposing team. When one of the paintball teams scores, points are awarded to the scoring team based upon the position of the opposing team's flag at the time the goal was scored by the scoring team. The flag may be passed between members of each team during the game play.

Abstract: The present invention provides an insert, or sleeve, for use in a baseball or softball bat that improves power transfer from the bat to the batted ball. The insert includes multiple layers of composite material. Most of the layers include fibers that are directed substantially circumferentially about the insert. Since the largest component of stress within the insert produced by an impact with a ball is typically compressive hoop stress, which is directed substantially circumferentially about the insert, the circumferential layers are able to withstand the majority of the stress produced by an impact. The insert also includes non-circumferential layers that serve to hold the circumferential layers together and withstand the smaller stresses in other directions. Because the insert has its greatest strength in substantially the circumferential direction, less material is required to withstand the stress produced by repeated impacts with a ball.

Abstract: A sound and light effects ball structure, in which a sound and light element is fitted. As the ball is thrown, the ball structure will emit a light and sound effect. Its principal features are its transparent inner bladder and its translucence. Also, the inner bladder is sewn into the outer ball skin. The invention's features is a suspended strap that is connected inside and between the upper and lower sides of the inner bladder. Additionally, the suspended strap's center is affixed with a balance-switching sound and light element. The sound and light element is controlled by a battery. When the ball is thrown, its movement causes the sound and light element to move and emit the sound and light effects, which will be passed through the translucent ball skin. Furthermore, since the said sound and light element is secured at the ball's central interior, the centrifugal force keeps the ball from wavering.

Abstract: A carbon fiber arrow shaft comprises a hollow tube, a reinforced carbon fiber, and a resinoid binder. The hollow tube has a length between 500-900 mm, an inner diameter between 2-10 mm, and a tube wall thickness between 0.3-2 mm. The reinforced carbon fiber and the resinoid binder form a resin-impregnated carbon fiber. The carbon fiber arrow shaft is formed by directly and continuously winding the resin-impregnated carbon fiber around the hollow tube. The carbon fiber arrow shaft has a head section (L1), a middle section (L2) and a tail section (L3). A winding angle of the carbon fiber at the head section (L1) is changed from a larger winding angle to a smaller winding angle, a winding angle at the middle section (L2) stays constant, and a winding angle at the tail section (L3) is changed from a smaller winding angle to a larger winding angle. The lengths of the head section (L1) and the tail section (L3) are between 25-250 mm.

Abstract: A hybrid drive, in particular for vehicles has a variable-ratio gear unit with a branch which can be driven by a primary motor. The gear unit is also connected in a rotationally rigid manner to a rotatable part of a first electric machine. A branch of the gear unit is connected in a rotationally rigid manner to a rotatable rotor of a second electric machine. Another branch connected in a rotationally rigid manner to an output shaft and to which the likewise rotatably arranged other machine component of the first electric machine is connected in a rotationally rigid manner. The rotor of the second machine can be fixed or released for rotation by a brake.

Abstract: A continuously variable transmission unit, which combines a toroidal-type continuously variable transmission of the double-cavity type and an epicyclic train, comprises a low-speed clutch and a high-speed clutch. In a low-speed drive mode, the low-speed clutch is connected to allow all torque to be transmitted to an output shaft through the toroidal-type continuously variable transmission. In a high-speed drive mode, the high-speed clutch is connected to allow most of torque to be transmitted to the output shaft through an epicyclic train and some of the torque to be applied to output discs of the toroidal-type transmission. The combination of the transmission and the epicyclic train serve to improve the transfer efficiency and durability of the continuously variable transmission unit.

Abstract: A continuous variable transmission is disclosed wherein the planetary gearset arranged downstream of the toroidal transmission mechanism is made simple in construction to reduce the overall axial length. To cope with this, a first planetary gearset arranged downstream of the toroidal transmission mechanism is comprised of a first carrier, a sun gear connected to an output disk, and a ring gear. The first carrier supports thereon a dual pinion having a first and second planet-gears. The ring gear may come in engagement with the second planet-gear through a first clutch for low-range operation. The combined construction of the first and second planetary gearsets contributes to the reduction of the axial length in the gearing mechanism. The second clutch for high-range operation may hold the second ring gear to a stationary case.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a gear arrangement for domestic use, particularly for kitchen appliances. It has an input shaft (6) at the driving end and an output shaft (20) rotatably connected to a working part at the driven end, there being arranged between the input shaft (6) and the output shaft (20) a planet gear train comprising at least one planet gear (10), a sun gear (9) meshing with said planet gear and a ring gear (15) meshing with said planet gear (10). The planet gear (10) is in meshing engagement with the input shaft (6) on the one side and in rotary engagement by way of its axle bearing (12) with the output shaft (20) on the other side.

Abstract: The toroidal type continuously variable transmission includes: first and second disks concentrically disposed on each other and supported such that they can be rotated freely; a pair of trunnions; a pair of displacement shafts respectively including support shaft portions and pivot shaft portions; a plurality of power rollers interposed between and held by the first and second disks; a plurality of thrust ball bearings respectively for supporting their associated power rollers; and, a plurality of thrust needle bearings respectively interposed between the outer surfaces of outer rings respectively forming the thrust ball bearings and the inner surfaces of the trunnions. A retainer for retaining the thrust needle roller in a freely rollable manner is formed of a single plate, and is carbonitrided, while the surface hardness Hv of the retainer is set higher than or equal to 550.

Abstract: A hybrid powertrain has a suitable heat engine having rotational output, a multi-speed transmission and a motor/generator (MG). The transmission input or cluster shaft is continuously connected with the MG. One set of ratio gears in the transmission is continuously drivingly connected to an accessory drive. The cluster shaft and a main shaft are selectively interconnected through a plurality of sets of ratio gears that are activated through the selective engagement of synchronizers associated with the ratio gears on the main shaft. The engine is selectively drivingly connected with the cluster shaft through a launch device such as a friction clutch. The output of the transmission, a differential, can be driven by the engine only, by the MG only or by a combination of the engine and the MG.

Abstract: The device for the control of an automatic transmission, especially a CVT, which is connected with an oscillatingly suspended drive mechanism, preferably an internal combustion engine for a motor vehicle with front-transverse drive mechanism, wherein the transmission has an electronic control, is provided with a sensor in the form of a piezoceramic transmitter on a torque support for the drive mechanism for producing high dynamic, to provide engine-torque equivalent signals which are fed to the electronic transmission control.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement for controlling a drive unit of a motor vehicle wherein at least one of the following quantities is determined: torque, power or throttle flap angle. This quantity is compared to the maximum permissible value and, when the maximum permissible value is exceeded by the determined quantity, fault reaction measures are initiated. The maximum permissible value is formed in dependence upon the time-dependent change of the rpm of the drive unit.

Abstract: A transfer case includes an input shaft, an output shaft, and a gear set selectively operable to translate torque between the input and output shafts at reduced speeds. A clutch is operable to translate torque between the input and output shafts either directly or through the gear set. An actuator, having a rotational output, is operatively coupled to the clutch for moving the clutch between predetermined positions. A control unit is employed in connection with the transfer case to effect the method of synchronizing low to high shifts in the transfer case. To this end, the control unit calculates the speed of the actuator as it moves the clutch to a neutral position. The control unit further determines the additional time until the clutch will reach a predetermined synchronization point using the speed of the actuator and the remaining rotational distance through which the actuator must move for the clutch to reach the predetermined synchronization point.

Abstract: An automatic engine-stop control apparatus for a vehicle includes a vehicle speed sensor and a brake pedal depression sensor which are coupled to a control unit. The control unit is programmed to decide that the vehicle speed detected by the vehicle speed sensor is smaller than or equal to a predetermined stop expected speed when the brake pedal depression sensor detects that the brake pedal is depressed, and to decide that the vehicle is stopped when a predetermined time period elapses from a moment that the vehicle speed becomes smaller than or equal to the predetermined stop expected speed and when the depression of the brake pedal is continued.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus alters the elevation of a person based on the person's level of exertion. The exercise itself may involve motion and/or isometric exercise performed by the person's arms and/or legs. The elevating process may be directly linked to the exercise motion and/or controlled electronically.

Abstract: An electronic activity monitor for monitoring the performance of an activity such as an exercise comprises an activity detector responsive to motion associated with the performance of the activity to output a corresponding signal, a processor for receiving the signal and determining a starting address at which a block of corresponding sound data is stored, a memory for storing sound data corresponding to a plurality of values associated with the monitored activity, the sound data preferably comprising data representing a voice representation of the values, and a speech generator for generating a naturally-sounding human voice or reproducing a pre-stored version of an actual human voice or other audible indicia in accordance with the sound data stored in the memory. The speech generator is controlled by the processor in response to the activity detector to provide a verbal representation of the user's performance of the activity.

Abstract: A device for maintaining a relatively fixed position of a person exercising in a pool. The device uses a flexible rod which deforms elastically as the swimmer exercises. In this fashion, the swimmer is given feedback as to how strenuously he or she is exercising. The device can be anchored to a conventional pool ladder. In addition, for those pools without a ladder, a separate anchor frame is disclosed. The anchor frame allows the device to be used in virtually any pool. It also allows the device to be used on a dock or on a boat.

Abstract: A standup exercise apparatus is provided which a user operates while in a standing position. The apparatus includes a rotation assembly mounted on a frame structure. This rotation assembly includes a plurality of rotational members connected together by either a closed loop or intermediate rotatable members. Cranks are attached to and extend from each side of each rotational member. A pedal is located on each side which bridges the cranks on that side. The cranks are arranged such that the pedals are opposingly positioned and travel their path of rotation while remaining in a substantially horizontal position. The pedals and cranks may have adjusting features which enable the apparatus to be configured such that the foot pedals follow more of a circular path and also configured to follow more of an elliptical path. Optional handles and variable resistance provide adjustable support and multiple work levels for the user. Another option is a motor for producing automatic movement of the pedals.

Abstract: A punching aid includes a column disposed above a base, a pad adjustably attached onto the column, and a flexible device secured between the base and the column to provide a flexibility to the column relative to the base. The flexible device includes two couplers secured to the ends. The base and the column each includes a stud engaged into and secured to the couplers for securing the flexible device between the column and the base. The couplers each has a protrusion and a disc engaged into the flexible device for solidly securing the flexible device to the base and the column.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for performing squat type exercises is disclosed. The apparatus includes a base supporting a resistance assembly and a pivoting user engaging assembly. A cable assembly links the user engaging assembly to the resistance assembly for applying resistance as a user performs an exercising routine. The user engaging assembly includes an upwardly extending post and a pivot arm secured to a free end of the upwardly extending post. The user engaging assembly further includes a locking assembly integrally associated with the pivot arm assembly for controlling the pivotal movement of the pivot arm.

Abstract: A folder for a rotary printing press, having at least one copy-guiding cylinder and, on the one copy-guiding cylinder, gripping devices for gripping one end of a copy, includes a cutting cylinder cooperating with the one copy-guiding cylinder, and copy-guiding devices provided on the cutting cylinder, the gripping devices of the one copy-guiding cylinder and the copy-guiding devices of the cutting cylinder being retractably and extensibly movable substantially parallel to normals to axes of rotation of the one copy-guiding cylinder and the cutting cylinder; and a method of operating the folder.

Abstract: A post-processing mechanism for a printer or the like includes a curved paper path. Post-processing operations such as stapling or other binding are performed either within the curved paper path or during the withdrawal of a document from the curved paper path. The curved paper path permits such post-processing operations to be performed within a limited space, while reducing the complexity of the post-processing mechanism and reducing the complexity of operations performed by the post-processing mechanism.

Abstract: A sheet feeding, folding and accumulating machine has an integral sheet storing and feeding mechanism, and a plurality of feeding inputs from which sheets are fed to a path of travel through the machine from the sheet storing and feeding mechanism or from an external source. A pair of buckle chutes are mounted in the machine, and suitable feeding and folding rollers are mounted adjacent the input ends of the buckle chutes for folding sheets that are fed into the buckle chutes. A movable buckle chute bypass gate is mounted adjacent the input end of each buckle chute, the gates being movable between opposite positions to cause sheets either to enter one or both of the buckle chutes or to bypass the buckle chutes and proceed directly to an accumulating mechanism that is mounted adjacent an outlet end of the machine to control whether each sheet will be folded or not folded before being deposited in the accumulating device.

Abstract: A centrifugal separator system for substantially separating a combination of material into a substantially pure solid portion and a substantially pure liquid portion. In one form of the centrifugal separator a plow blade assembly is rotatable relative to a bowl during a cleaning mode to dislodge adhered material from the inner surface of the bowl. The plow blade assembly being driven by a plow blade assembly motor that is pivoted into engagement with the plow blade assembly. One form of the centrifugal separator has an integral top discharge feed impeller/directing member. The delivery of material into the centrifugal separator is through a self-centering feed tube positioned above the bowl. The plow blade assembly having a plurality of plow blades oriented tangential to the outer diameter of the plow blade drive shaft.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for making the compounds of formula I which is a dehydrohalogenative coupling of hydrochlorosilanes of formula II with organic halides of formula III in the presence of a Lewis base catalyst. R3CH2SiR1Cl2  (I) HSiR1Cl2  (II) R2CH2X  (III) In formulas I and II, R1 represents a hydrogen, chloro, or methyl; in formula III, X represents a chloro or bromo; in formula III, R2 can be selected from the group consisting of a C1-17 alkyl, a C1-10 fluorinated alkyl with partial or full fluorination, a C1-5 alkenyl groups, a silyl group containing alkyls, (CH2)nSiMe3-mClm wherein n is 0 to 2 and m is 0 to 3, aromatic groups, Ar(R′)1 wherein Ar is C6-14 aromatic hydrocarbon, R′ is a C1-4 alkyl, halogen, alkoxy, or vinyl, and q is 0 to 5, a haloalkyl group, (CH2)pX wherein p is 1 to 9 and X is a chloro or bromo; or an aromatic hydrocarbon, Ar CH2X wherein Ar is C6-14 aromatic hydrocarbon and X is a chloro or bromo.

Abstract: A method for removal of organic contaminants from solid particulate soil contaminated with the organic contaminants. The method comprises forming an aqueous slurry of a mixture of a hydrophobic adsorbent selected from foamed synthetic materials or natural materials which entrap gas, with the soil in the presence of water. The adsorbent has a density less than water. The slurry is mixed for a period of time, and a gravity separation of the adsorbent from the aqueous admixture thus obtained is effected.

Abstract: A catheter apparatus (20) and radiation dosimetry unit indicator (21) for delivery of a prescribed radiation dose to a patient. The catheter is filled with a radiation carrier material such as an inert radioactive gas (12) for the treatment of, for example, restenosis after angioplasty, and malignancies. The inflated catheter includes a plurality of discrete chambers such as balloon sections (22, 24, 26) for transporting the radioactive carrier material, and a plurality of discrete chambers (32, 34, 36) enabling substantial blood flow through the artery during treatment with the prescribed radiation. The inflated catheter can also comprise a one-unit balloon. A specific metal coating enhances the radiation dose delivered to the target. The wall (25) of the inflation lumen attenuates transmission dose to the blood circulating through the hollow inner lumen of the catheter device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for temporarily inserting a radioactive source in a body. A flexible, closed-end sheath is first inserted in the body in a known way. Thereafter a radiation device having a radioactive source therein is inserted into the sheath and detachably connected to a fixing element. After a predetermined period of time, the radiation device is disconnected from the fixing element and removed from the body.

Abstract: A cardiac assist device and method of use for assisting the function of a heart. The assist device includes a compressor positioned against the epicardial wall of the heart and a field generator for driving a fluid coupled to the compressor to exert pressure on the heart. The field generator may be a magnetic field generator and the fluid coupled to the compressor may be a ferrofluid. The compressor may include two containment regions containing ferrofluid on opposite sides of the heart, and a pair of compression portions coupled to the containment regions. The filled generator may be electromagnetic which includes two electromagnets having corresponding core portions and corresponding coils. The electromagnets may be disposed with their north and south poles in alignment and separated by a gap to allow relative movement. The electromagnets may be external or internal to the body.

Abstract: An implantable device for treatment of tinnitus is provided comprising an electronic signal generation unit and a power source for supplying power. A hermetically gas-tight, biocompatible and implantable electroacoustic transducer is also provided as the sound-delivering output transducer which, after an at least partial mastoidectomy, can be positioned in the mastoid cavity such that the sound emitted from the electroacoustic transducer travels from the mastoid to the tympanic cavity via the natural passage of the aditus ad antrum.

Abstract: A method for treating a gastrointestinal tract in a body of a mammal. At least one nonaqueous solution is introduced into the wall. A nonbiodegradable solid is formed in the wall from the at least one nonaqueous solution to treat the wall. A kit for use in the procedure is provided.

Abstract: A method for forming a valve-like mechanism in a body of a mammal having an esophagus extending through a lower esophageal sphincter to a stomach and formed by a wall having a muscle layer and a mucosal layer. The method comprises the step of forming at least one implant in the muscle layer of the wall in the vicinity of the lower esophageal sphincter. The at least one implant inhibits opening of esophagus at the lower esophageal sphincter and causes the mucosal layer to appose in the vicinity of the implants.

Abstract: A tissue stabilizer includes a pneumatic rigidifying bladder which is flexible when at ambient pressure and rigid when at negative pressure or evacuated. Structure such as straps with hook-and-eye fasteners attaches the rigidifying bladder to tissue to be stabilized, such as a broken arm. When positioned on the tissue, the bladder is evacuated, thereby rigidifying the bladder and supporting the tissue. The tissue stabilizer may be configured for use in surgical procedures, such as performing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) on a warm, beating heart. In a cardiac embodiment, the tissue stabilizer includes an attaching bladder with a plurality of openings. When suction is applied at a port of the attaching bladder, suction is applied at the openings, which is utilized to attach the stabilizer to the epicardium of the heart. Once in position on the heart, suction may be applied at a port of the rigidifying bladder. When rigid, the heart may be moved as desired to perform CABG procedures.

Abstract: An artificial penis has a cylinder having a cylinder wall enclosing a hollow, a front wall with a first opening and a rear wall with a second opening. A piston rod is guided within the hollow. The piston rod has an initial position in which a first cylinder space is at a maximum and a second cylinder space is at a minimum and an extended position in which the first cylinder space is at a minimum and the second cylinder space at a maximum. A pump supplies a fluid under pressure to move the piston rod in an extending direction. An enclosure having an outer shape of a penis encloses the cylinder and the end of the piston rod. The enclosure has an initial position when the pump is released and an extended position when the pump is actuated.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for allowing a male with erectile dysfunction to participate in normal coitus is disclosed. A two piece device forms a male erectile prosthesis which can be utilized to allow a man with erectile dysfunction to participate in sexual activity. The prosthesis includes a penile wrap for providing rigidity to the penis and a thrust plate which is operable to provide resistance against any backward movement of the penis.

Abstract: An endoscopic observation means having least a couple of illumination means are provided at a distal end portion of an endoscopic insertion instrument, the illumination means being on the opposite sides of and substantially on the same plane as an optical image pickup means. Each one of the illumination means includes a light guide for transmitting on illumination light from a light source, and an illumination lens for dispersing illumination light over an imaging area of a subject under observation. Further, the endoscopic observation means includes an objective lens system having a variable observation distance. The illumination means on the opposite sides of the observation means are spaced apart from each other by such a distance as to hold illuminance in peripheral portions of an imaging area of the subject to a level not greater than 200%, preferably, in the range of 200% to 120% of an illuminance level in portions of the imaging area.