Abstract: A steering/driving game controller integrates an additional steering lever to the underside of the game controller. The steering lever is spring biased in a center operable positions and is variably actuated such that it is responsive to varying degrees of depression. In response to the varying degree of user depression, the steering/driving controller is capable of outputting steering control signals of varying level to a connected game console, thereby enabling more selective and more accurate driving control within a video game being played on the connected game console.

Abstract: A wireless control unit includes a controller having wireless transmitter circuitry for transmitting game information, and a console interface/adapter for converting one of the communication ports of the game console into a wireless receiver/transmitter. The console interface/adapter also includes an additional communication port so as to provide the user with access to the used communication port while the interface/adapter is operably disposed within the communication port of the game console.

Abstract: A message generated by an originator participant is entered into a “bottle” that passes the message from participant to participant. The bottle may be a hand-held device that is capable of directly communicating with another such device. When the originator is located close enough to another participant who also has such a hand-held device, the devices communicate and the message is passed from the originator to the other participant. The bottle may be a hand-held device that is capable of communicating with a central base station, such as a pager or cell phone or a computer that communicates with the base station via the Internet. When the originator enters a message into the device, a program at the base station selects a participant from the list to receive the message and the message is sent to the other participant.

Abstract: Data link-up between multiple game devices can be more flexibly achieved. A game system (1) comprises a game device for business (2) and a game device for use at home (3), which execute games in accordance with predetermined programs, it being possible to exchange information between these games devices, and the game device for business (2) comprises an information output device for outputting judgement information for judging whether predetermined conditions have been satisfied in the game device for business (2). The contents of the game executed on the game device for use at home (3) are changed based on the judgement information output from the game device for business (2). For example, when a predetermined game result has been achieved in the game device for business, the content of the judgement information is updated, and a hidden element appears in the game device for use at home (3) in correspondence therewith.

Abstract: When a user desires to participate a roulette game performed in a site operated by a web server, the user participates himself in the game by use of a user terminal. Of the users, a user who has declared to be an owner can participate and play the roulette game as the owner. In contrast, a user who has participated the game as a player predict a number determined by a roulette wheel and bet chips. If no winning chips have hit, the chips betted in a layout table are paid to the owner. In contrast, if winning chips have hit, the amount of payout is computed, and the chips are paid to the player. If the amount of chips paid to the player is greater than the amount of chips betted in the layout table, chips are paid to the players from the chips possessed by the owner.

Abstract: An identification token 5 is provided with a read /write electronic chip 8 and antenna 10 located beneath a label 9. The chip operates in the 12-15 MHz frequency range. The identification token is easy to fabricate and requires less power to operate.

Abstract: A clutch disk assembly has an input rotary member 2, a spline hub 3, a damper section 4, a friction mechanism 13, and a friction suppressing mechanism. The damper section 4 has second springs 8 and a torsion characteristic having a positive side corresponding to when the input rotary member 2 is twisted in a rotational drive direction with respect to the spline hub 3 and a negative side corresponding to when the input rotary member 2 is twisted in an opposite direction. The friction mechanism 13 can generate friction when the input rotary member 2 and the spline hub 3 undergo relative rotation and the second springs 8 exert an elastic force. The friction suppressing mechanism secures a rotational gap &thgr;ACn on only the positive or negative side preventing the second spring 8 from acting on the friction mechanism within a prescribed angular range.

Abstract: In an adjustable-length shaft (1) for transmitting torques comprising a circular inner shaft component (2) that is mounted coaxially through a linear ball bearing for sliding telescopically in axial direction in a hollow outer shaft component (3), the inner shaft component (29 is mounted by two spaced-apart pre-stressed linear ball bearings (4) that are arranged on opposite end sections (6) of the inner shaft component (2) and are received in a reception bore (19) of the outer shaft component (3), a transmission of torque being achieved by a positive engagement of the inner and the outer shaft components (2, 3).

Abstract: A connector that receives a threaded apparatus and reduces stresses induced from the treaded apparatus into the connector is described. The connector includes a top side, a bottom side, and an opening that extends therethrough. The opening is defined by an inner surface that includes a threadform including a plurality of threads. The threads extend radially outward from the inner surface into the connector opening and include a first thread portion and a cutback that extends through a portion of the threadform. The cutback facilitates less stresses being induced into the first thread portion.

Abstract: A table assembly structured for selective positioning between a conventional table orientation and a gaming orientation which facilitates the playing of the game of billiards thereon. A plurality of side rails are connected to an under portion of a table top of the table assembly and movable between a stored position and an operative position which respectively define the conventional and gaming orientations. When in the stored position, the plurality of side rails are disposed in a primarily hidden location in order to enhance the table's appearance. A positioning assembly includes a plurality of linkage structures movably supporting the plurality of side rails along a complex path of travel as the plurality of side rails move between the stored and operative positions.

Abstract: A linear putter device of a golf club includes a lower connecting rod, an upper connecting rod, a bearing unit, a locking member, an upright rod, and a movable member. Thus, the golf club is moved in a linear manner, so that the golf club can hit the golf ball in a linear manner. in addition, the distance between the movable member and the upright rod can be adjusted arbitrarily so as to fit the user's stature and height, so that the length of the golf club can fit the user's stature and height.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a golf training apparatus capable of realizing an inclined plane an inclination angle of which can be adjusted in an unpowered manner according to movement of the weight center of a user thereby allowing a golfer to have optimum golf training. The golf training apparatus can be easily installed indoor or outdoor where power is not supplied since it can adjust the angle of inclination without power. The upper plate can be rapidly inclined without any sway or noise. The golf training apparatus of the present invention also has advantages in that maintenance cost can be reduced in respect to power consumption, endurance is enhanced and maintenance is made easy. Moreover, since the golf training apparatus of the present invention may not use a power unit, the golf training apparatus has advantages in that the weight can be reduced and the cost can be saved compared to conventional powered golf training apparatuses, which may reduce economic burden of consumers.

Abstract: An improved golf club head consisting of a balance plane that derives markings visible on the club head face indicating the ideal points of contact with a golf ball regardless of whether the golf ball is lying on the ground, on a golf tee or otherwise, together with markings visible on club head top indicating basic alignment of club head and golf ball to the target, with methods and tools for determining same. The markings are determined by intersecting lines, planes and axes. The markings may be determined for an existing golf club or for a custom fitted golf club regardless of whether the golf club has a flat or curved base. The location of the markings may vary from golfer to golfer and from club to club depending upon parameters.

Abstract: A customizable golf putter head includes a face member and a back body both of which may be selected from a plurality of differently configured face members and back bodies. The face member has a cavity formed in its rear surface, and the back body has a mating section that is positioned within the cavity of the face member so that a parting line between the face member and the back body is concealed below a top ledge of the face member when the putter head is assembled. A hosel selected from a plurality of differently configured hosels is mounted on the face member, and an elastomeric membrane is positioned within the cavity of the face member so as to be interposed between the face member and the back body.

Abstract: A golf club head for hitting a golf ball farther than existing golf club heads and having a sole, a crown, and a face that includes a lower portion and an upper portion. The sole and crown are cast thinner than most other club heads to promote deformation when striking a golf ball. A parabolic shaped rise in both the crown and sole provide increased lateral strength while aiding in reducing the deformation of the ball at impact. The lower portion of the face has two end portions, and a center portion with the end portions having a first thickness. The center portion and the upper portion of the face have a second thickness that is thicker than the first thickness. In addition, the face includes a channel disposed around its peripheral and having a thickness that is thinner than either the first or second thickness. The overall effect of this invention is to reduce deformation of the golf ball at impact, which reduces the energy lost as heat in the golf ball, resulting in farther drives.

Abstract: A golf club head for hitting a golf ball farther than existing golf club heads and having a cast sole and a crown joined seamlessly as one piece with an opening for a face plate to be fitted into the body, and a face plate fabricated from sheet metal, precision cut by laser and precision formed in a die under extremely high pressure that includes a lower portion and an upper portion. The sole and crown part of the body are cast thinner than most other club heads to promote deformation when striking a golf ball. A parabolic shaped rise in both the crown and sole provide increased lateral strength while aiding in reducing the deformation of the ball at impact. The lower portion of the face has two end portions, and a center portion with the end portions having a first thickness. The center portion and the upper portion of the face have a second thickness that is thicker than the first thickness. In addition, the face plate is welded or bonded into a front opening of the cast body.

Abstract: In connection with a golf ball comprising a core, an intermediate resin layer, and a cover, the invention provides a mold having a cavity wall defining a spherical cavity, wherein the core is placed in the cavity to define a space for molding the resin layer. The cavity wall is provided with a plurality of radially extending projections, the total cross-sectional area of the projections relative to the cavity wall and the total volume of the projections relative to the space volume are properly controlled.

Abstract: A solid golf ball includes a core and a cover. The golf ball satisfies the following conditions (1) to (3): (1) the cover has a thickness of at least 2.5 mm; (2) the cover has a Shore D hardness of 59 to 62; and (3) a value obtained through subtraction of JIS C hardness of a center portion of the core from JIS C hardness of a surface portion of the core is at least 8.

Abstract: The present invention provides a three-piece solid golf ball, of which flight distance is improved by accomplishing high launch angle and low spin amount in initial flight performance, while maintaining soft and good shot feel, when hit at low head speed. The present invention relates to a three-piece solid golf ball comprising a center, an intermediate layer and a cover having many dimples on the surface thereof, wherein hardness distribution of the center; hardness distribution between each layer and the contiguous layer in the golf ball; and a ratio of the golf ball surface area occupied by the dimple to the total surface area of the golf ball and the total of a periphery length of the dimple; are adjusted to specified ranges.

Abstract: A golf ball comprising an elastic solid core, an intermediate layer and a resin cover of urethane elastomer having a plurality of dimples on its surface, wherein the dimples include 330-400 circular dimples having a diameter of 3.7-5.0 mm, have a total volume of 330-380 mm3, and are substantially uniformly distributed such that there is no or only one great circle which does not intersect with the dimples exhibit uniform flight performance.

Abstract: A multi-piece solid golf ball includes a core having a structure with at least two layers and a cover on the core with an outer and inner cover layers. The core has a diameter in the range of 35 to 41 mm. The inner sphere of the core is formed of a rubber material based on polybutadiene and an outer layer is formed of a thermoplastic or rubber based material. The outer cover layer has a Shore D hardness of 40-60 degrees. The inner cover layer has a Shore D hardness of up to 53 degrees and lower than that of the outer cover layer. The ball's carry is comparable to conventional solid golf balls and spin receptivity is approximate to wound golf balls while the ball is durable and offers pleasant feel.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, the ball striking practice device comprises a base having an upper surface provided with a slot and lateral grooves, a lower surface provided with a lower lateral groove, and side walls provided with protruding lugs. A pivoting post is attached to the base and a ball is secured to a top of the pivoting post. A resillent band is positioned in a circumscribing groove of the ball and attached to the top of the pivoting post. A lateral pivoting post retaining shaft is located in the lower lateral groove for attaching the pivoting post to the base. A closed end resilient stop band is stretched across the upper surface of the base in two pairs of the lateral grooves, circumscribes the protruding lugs and secures the lateral pivoting post retaining shaft to the base. Thus, a travel of the pivoting post in the slot is predetermined.

Abstract: A practice goal apparatus comprises a box-like structure having an open face and providing plural interior faces adapted to rebound a resilient ball upon impact. The plural interior faces are set at selected angles such that the resilient ball, upon forcefully entering the box-like structure through the open face, from any direction will rebound in a manner resulting in forceful exit from the box-like structure back to the kicker. The apparatus has a hollow base that may be filled with water or sand to anchor it in place.

Abstract: A collapsible frame supports a first and second net useful for practicing various volleyball maneuvers. The first net is attached such that it acts as a standard volleyball net and the second net is attached behind the first net such that it catches and holds volleyballs hit over the first net. The entire apparatus can be disassembled making it convenient for storing and portable to any desired location.

Abstract: A fan drive arrangement and method is provided for facilitating the cooling of engine coolant flowing through a radiator and an engine. The fan drive arrangement includes a variable pitch sheave assembly which moves between a first high speed position and a second low speed position. Variable pitch sheave assembly is interconnected by first and second drive belts to first and second drive pulleys operatively connected to the crankshaft of the engine and by first and second fan belts to corresponding fan pulleys connected to a fan shaft of a fan. Variable pitch sheave assembly includes first and second drive belt receiving grooves for receiving corresponding drive belts therein and first and second fan belt grooves for receiving corresponding fan belts therein. The depths of the fan belt grooves and the drive belt grooves of the variable pitch sheave assembly are varied in response to the temperature of the engine coolant flowing through the radiator so as to vary the fan speed accordingly.

Abstract: A sensor retainer for a bicycle sprocket assembly includes an annular member for mounting and rotating coaxially with the bicycle sprocket assembly and a sensor element fixed to the annular member. Alternatively, the sensor retainer may include a fixing member for mounting a derailleur or other transmission to a bicycle frame and a sensor element mounted to the fixing member.

Abstract: A tensioning device for traction means, especially for toothed belts, is provided with a tensioning arm (3) on which a tensioning roller (1) is rotatably arranged. Furthermore a stopper (12) is provided which restricts a swiveling angle of the tensioning arm (3), whereby a detachable locking device (15) is provided through which the tensioning arm (30) and the stopper (12) are locked for joint swiveling into a position provided for the stopper (12).

Abstract: A chain drive assembly for elevating a load such as a vehicle carriage on a leisure ride. The assembly comprises an endless loop lift chain and a plurality of drive chains. The lift chain has a plurality of chain links comprising a pair of laterally spaced outer link plates pivotally connected to inner link members disposed at least in part between the outer link members. The inner or outer link members of each link have a row of teeth for engagement in openings between links of the drive chains. The drive chains being disposed so as to engage the teeth at a rectilinear stretch of the chain loop so as to drive the chain in a longitudinal direction. The inner and outer links of the lift chain being arranged to define an opening designed to receive a projection on the load. The assembly serves to spread the load between the drive chains and their drive systems. The conveyor chain does not articulate under load and can be reduced in weight.

Abstract: An endless belt, comprising a molding in the shape of an endless belt obtained by mixing a crystalline resin having at least one hydroxyl group, carboxyl group or an ester linkage, an amorphous resin having at least one hydroxyl group, carboxyl group or an ester linkage, and a polymerization catalyst while heating, thereby preparing a resin composition; and molding said resin composition.

Abstract: A control unit has a signal input from at least one sensor and a signal output for electrically actuating at least one valve in order to hydraulically activate a gear-changing element. An emergency gear change slide can switch off the electrical actuation of the valves so that hydraulic modulation can be carried out.

Abstract: A control apparatus for increasing the reliability of the range shifting of the transmission based on the operation of a shift lever. Only when a shift permission switch is operated by a driver and the shift lever is operated does a determination circuit validate the operation of the shift lever. When the shift permission switch is not operated, the determination circuit does not shift the range of the transmission even when the shift lever is moved.

Abstract: A three-way clutch unit (9) comprising a forward clutch (91), second clutch (92) and forward one way clutch (93) which sets a power recirculation mode, a high clutch (10) which sets a direct mode, and a mode change-over valve (175) which supplies an oil pressure to one of the high clutch (10) and second clutch (92), are provided.

Abstract: A multi-gear, manual transmission, especially for utility vehicles, with at least partially automatized gear shifting or with a manual gear shift, in which the gear synchronization is carried out by motor guidance and wherein the transmission possesses a forward shift-group, a main-shift-group and a post shift-group, whereby the pre-shift-group is designed as a planetary gear set (2P) and a support member of the planetary gear set is constructed as a friction brake, which is active in the slow gear-shift position and thereby assumes the function of a start-up clutch.

Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least seven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. Also, one planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with at least one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least seven forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio.

Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least seven forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting mechanisms and a fixed interconnection. Also, one planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with at least one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, the fixed interconnection, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least seven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.

Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least five forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets and four clutches. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one member of the planetary gear arrangement and an output member that is continuously connected with another of the planetary gear members. At least one other planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The four clutches provide interconnections between various gear members and with the input and the output shaft, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least five forward speed ratios.

Abstract: In a toroidal continuously variable transmission, a secondary oil pump is provided in addition to a primary oil pump driven by an engine. The secondary oil pump is driven in response to rotation of a road wheel. A hydraulic servo mechanism is connected to a trunnion to create an offset of the power roller from a neutral position for a tilting motion of the power roller. A feedback device is provided for feeding a degree of progress for ratio changing back to the hydraulic servo mechanism so that the power roller returns to the neutral position when a desired transmission ratio has been reached. When the road wheel is rotated in a stopped state of the engine, hydraulic pressure from the secondary oil pump is supplied to the hydraulic servo mechanism so that an actual transmission ratio is brought closer to a desired transmission ratio.

Abstract: A dual cavity toroidal type CVT includes two toroidal transmission units (31, 32). A torque delivery shaft (27) carries a first input disc (35) and a second input disc (36) coaxially for a unitary rotation. A third common output disc (37) between the first and second input discs (35, 36) has an output gear (73) fixedly attached to an outer periphery thereof. Radial bearings (39, 40) received in peripheral grooves (27a, 27b) of the torque delivery shaft (27) are in rolling contact with a central opening defining wall of the third common output disc (37). Two supports (41, 42) are fixedly attached to a transmission casing (21) and bear thrust load tending to tilt the third common output disc (37) from a predetermined normal upright position, thereby to hold the third common output disc (37) in the predetermined normal upright position.

Abstract: A double-cavity toroidal-type continuously variable transmission includes a case, a drive shaft and a toroidal transmission mechanism portion. The toroidal transmission mechanism portion includes a gear housing for supporting an output gear, and a yoke for supporting a pivot shaft of a trunnion in an oscillatable manner. The support post for supporting the yoke and a fixing member for fixing the gear housing and the support post to the case are connected together or are formed as an integral body.

Abstract: A toroidal continuously variable transmission system of the present invention is provided with an input disk, an output disk and power rollers. The input and output disks have traction surfaces defined between a small-diameter portion and a large-diameter portion and having an arc-shaped concave section. The input and output disks are coaxially arranged in such a manner that the traction surfaces face each other. The power roller are frictionally engagement with the traction surfaces of the input and output disks and transmit a driving force. At least one of the input disk, the output disk and the power rollers is formed of an alloy steel which contains 0.15 to 2.0% by weight of Mo. The alloy steel is subjected first to carburization or carbonitriding processing executed at a temperature not lower than 1,000° C., and then to hardening and tempering. The alloy steel has a surface carbon content of 0.8 to 1.4%.

Abstract: A hybrid power system with continuously variable speed, comprising a first power unit, a secondary shaft, a speed converter, a clutch, a second transmission device, and an electric motor. The first power unit has a primary shaft. The secondary shaft is driven by the primary shaft in a rotational movement. The speed converter is placed between the primary shaft and the secondary shaft, having a transmission belt, transmitting torque from the primary shaft to the secondary shaft. The clutch is set on the primary shaft or on the secondary shaft and has a drum, allowing or interrupting transmission of torque from the first power unit to the secondary shaft. The second transmission device is connected with the drum of the clutch. The electric motor is connected with the secondary shaft, either driving the secondary shaft or being driven by the secondary shaft to generate electricity or running idle.

Abstract: A shift assist system for an outboard motor regulates the torque of the engine to ensure proper effortless shifting. The system recognizes open circuit or short circuit faults and nevertheless enables the torque of the engine to be reduced to facilitate easy gear selection.

Abstract: When a transmission selector lever is operated from P or N range to D range, an input clutch to be engaged at the fifth gear position is temporally engaged to reduce shift shock when the engaging element for the first gear position is engaged. An oil pressure command value for actuating the input clutch is increased with a constant inclination from a start point oil pressure value, and the start point oil pressure value is lowered when the engine speed is low or when an oil temperature is high. Even if a timing of completion of filling of working fluid to the input clutch is fluctuated, the difference between the actual oil pressure and the oil pressure command value is suppressed to a small level and the occurrence of shock due to surge at the time of the filling completion is prevented.

Abstract: An apparatus for sports training allows an athlete to move an exercise bar freely in two dimensions by connecting the bar between congruent pantograph trusses. The resistance offered to the movements of the user is programmable and may be varied according to predetermined parameters and also as a predetermined function of measured parameters. The apparatus further incorporates means to record the parameters of the exercise.

Abstract: A bounce apparatus that includes a continuous inflatable support, an apron attached to the support, the apron including a sheet having a plurality of apertures and being folded over upon itself to form a plurality of loops, a mat that includes loops, and a cord passing through the apron loops and the mat loops.

Abstract: An improved leg exercise apparatus by modifying a conventional apparatus to improve its durability and substantially eliminate the existing problem of a rocking motion. First, the foot ramps are reinforced underneath by double brackets and a plurality of wave washers. Second, each stair arm has its bushings replaced by needle or roller bearings and self lubricating, sealing washers which are attached to the flywheel pins. Third, the lower portion of the lift motor may be stabilized to prevent any forward or rearward motion.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a plurality of exercise terminals, wherein a workout of an exerciser includes at least two exercises performed at one or more of the exercise terminals. Each exercise terminal includes a communication device for communicating to the exerciser information regarding an exercise of the workout subsequent to a current exercise in the workout.

Abstract: The invention relates to a quick release mechanism for securing and releasing a bicycle in a trainer, wherein said mechanism engages and secures the rear hub area of a bicycle without disassembly of said bicycle, comprising: (a) a housing adapted to slidably receive at least part of a piston, wherein said housing is mounted on a first hub supporting leg of said trainer; (b) a piston nesting within the housing and being slidable therein, wherein said piston has a first end and a second end, said first end bearing a first means for capturing a bicycle wheel hub; (c) means for slidably moving side piston within said housing in order to extend said first end toward the hub of a bicycle to secure said bicycle, including a lever mounted at the second end of said piston; (d) a second means for capturing said bicycle wheel hub, said capturing means being mounted on a second hub supporting leg of said trainer, wherein the hub supporting legs are mutually spaced to allow a bicycle wheel mounted on a bicycle wheel t

Abstract: A device and method is shown for invoking a muscle's natural involuntary, reflexive response or stretch reflex by imparting a sudden increase in load on the muscle over a defined period of time from a predetermined base load at which the muscle has assumed a baseline tonus, and over a predetermined amplitude of motion. The muscle is stimulated by cycling the load with a frequency of between 1 and 60 Hz, or more preferably between 10 and 30 Hz, and an amplitude of displacement of the muscle between 2 and 50 mm, or more preferably between 5 and 10 mm. The force input to the muscle can be provided by either the mass of the body to which the muscle is connected or by an external mass or resistance to motion. A seesaw platform can be oscillated in a vertical direction at the correct frequency and amplitude.

Abstract: An exercising apparatus is disclosed which allows a user to perform a variety of leg exercises including leg extensions and leg presses. The exercise apparatus has a front and a back and includes a frame having an upper frame member and a lower base frame member. A seat is mounted to the upper frame member. The lower base frame member extends forwardly of the seat and the lower end of a press arm is pivotally secured to the forward end thereof. The press arm extends upwardly to the area in front of the seat and the upper end thereof is pivotable toward and away from the seat. A first resistance, biases the press arm toward the seat. A curl bar has an upper end pivotally secured to the upper end of said press arm such that the lower end of the curl bar is pivotable toward and away from the press arm and a curl pad is adjustably mounted adjacent the lower end of the curl bar.