Abstract: The folding machine with a collect run mode of this invention comprises folding cylinder fixed cam means for carrying out a straight run at pins, folding cylinder rotating cam means provided with covering section so as to enable rotation of the covering sections for covering a cam shape for carrying out the straight run, jaw cylinder fixed cam means for carrying out a straight run at jaw mechanisms, jaw cylinder rotating cam means provided with covering sections to enable rotation of the covering sections covering a cam shape for carrying out a straight run, drive transmission means for ensuring that the covering sections of the folding cylinder rotating cam means rotate at a predetermined rotational speed ratio with respect to rotation of the folding cylinder and that the covering sections of the jaw cylinder rotating cam means rotate at a predetermined rotational speed ratio with respect to rotation of the jaw cylinder, and switching means for switching over driving between the folding cylinder rotating cam

Abstract: A folding blade cylinder for use in a folding machine includes a cylindrical cradle and a folding blade that can be situated in various positions in the cylindrical cradle. Each position of the folding blade corresponds to a gap in the cylinder cradle surface. These gaps are separated from each other by segments of the cylindrical cradle. In order to move the folding blade from one gap to another, the folding blade is retracted into the interior of the folding blade cylinder.

Abstract: A sheet processing apparatus includes a sheet conveyor for conveying sheets; a first loader for loading a sheet bundle including a plurality of sheets conveyed by the sheet conveyor; a lateral aligner for aligning opposite side edges of the sheet bundle loaded on the first loader in a direction perpendicular to a sheet conveying direction; a stapler for performing a stapling treatment with respect to a sheet bundle aligned by the lateral aligner; a sheet bundle conveyor for conveying a sheet bundle stapled by the stapler; a second loader for loading sheet bundles conveyed by the sheet bundle conveyor; and loading position controller for loading sheet bundles to be loaded onto the second loader so that the loading positions thereof are displaced from each other along the sheet conveying direction.

Abstract: A sheet post-processing apparatus includes a head portion for driving a staple into a sheet bundle, an anvil portion opposingly arranged to the head portion for receiving and bending the staple driven from the head portion, a feeding device for feeding the sheet bundle between the head portion and the anvil portion, a fixed guide member extending laterally and immovably positioned between the head portion and the anvil portion for guiding the sheet bundle, and an auxiliary guide member disposed on an upstream side of the fixed guide member in a sheet bundle feed direction of the sheet bundle fed by the feeding device. The auxiliary guide member projects from the guide member to lead the sheet bundle to the fixed guide member without touching a leading edge of the sheet bundle fed by the feeding device on an upstream edge of the fixed guide member in the sheet bundle feed direction.

Abstract: A machine for processing flat printing material, in particular a sheet processing rotary printing press, includes at least one processing station in the form of a printing unit, a feeder for loading the processing station with sheets of the printing material, a delivery for combining the processed sheets into piles, and an auxiliary pile carrier displaceable in an insertion direction from a standby position into an operational position and vice versa. Supporting members follow one another in the insertion direction and axially parallel swivel joints articulatingly connect the supporting members directly to one another. The supporting members have extensions projecting beyond the swivel joints thereof. One of the extensions directed counter to the insertion direction of a respective one of the supporting members engages underneath one of the extensions directed in the insertion direction of the respective supporting member after the next which trails in the insertion direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and to a device for processing and separating an imbricate formation of flexible, flat objects 10, in particular of folded printed products. The imbricate formation is influenced by way of a guide means 1 which at least in regions is inclined with respect to the horizontal such that the objects are differently inclined with respect to the vertical. The guide means 1 serve for reforming the flat objects of the imbricate flow in angle and alignment, wherein at its end there is effected a removal of individual or groups of flat objects. At the end of a guide surface 2 of the guide means 1 there is arranged a conveyor means 9 which serves for conveying away the isolated objects 10.

Abstract: A paper separation mechanism that requires no complicated design or manufacturing and prevents feeding of a plurality of sheets of paper simultaneously to assure sheet-by-sheet feeding of paper, and a paper feed apparatus using such a paper separation mechanism. In the paper feed apparatus, paper is fed sheet by sheet by cooperation of a paper feed roller and the paper separation mechanism which is abutted by the lower end of the paper stacked in an inclined state. The paper separation mechanism is provided with a plurality of projections which are abutted by the lower end of the paper and a plurality of arm portions holding the projections, respectively. Since each projection is not affected by the neighboring projection, load imposed by the paper on the each projection can be controlled independently by the corresponding arm portion.

Abstract: A printer for printing on porous sheets of media fed from a stack of such sheets includes a gas stream supply mechanism that is configured to generate a gas stream and is positioned so that, in use, the gas stream impinges on a first sheet of the stack. The gas stream supply mechanism is configured so that the gas stream penetrates the first sheet to generate a cushion of gas between the first sheet and a second sheet, thereby lifting the first sheet from the second sheet. A capturing mechanism captures the first sheet and is displaceable between a pick-up position in which the first sheet is captured and a feed position. A displacement mechanism displaces the capturing mechanism between the pick-up and feed positions. A feed mechanism is arranged downstream of the capturing mechanism and is configured to engage the first sheet as the capturing mechanism is displaced from the pick-up position to the feed position and to feed the first sheet along a printing path.

Abstract: A sheet feeding apparatus for feeding porous sheets from a stack includes an air displacement device having an outlet conduit. Outlet nozzles are connected to the outlet conduit. The outlet nozzles are displaceable between a pick-up position proximate a first sheet of the stack and a feed position. The air displacement device is configured to generate a flow of air from the outlet nozzles sufficient to penetrate the first sheet such that a cushion of air is generated between the first sheet and a second sheet to lift the first sheet from the second sheet. An air extraction device has an inlet conduit. Inlet nozzles are connected to the inlet conduit. The inlet nozzles define a pick-up surface and are displaceable between a pick-up position proximate a first sheet of the stack and a feed position. The air extraction device is configured to generate a flow of air into the inlet nozzles such that the first sheet is drawn against the pick-up surface.

Abstract: In a spring-action suction head for separating sheets from a sheet stack, provision is made for a first suction chamber, which can be subjected to vacuum, for lifting the sheet to be surrounded coaxially by a second suction chamber, which can be subjected to vacuum, for holding and lowering the spring-action suction head in a controlled manner.

Abstract: An imaging media supply tray for providing imaging media to a feed mechanism of an imaging system a first access area adapted and constructed to contain a first quantity of imaging media in a position capable of exposing the first quantity of imaging media to the feed mechanism. A second access area adapted and constructed to contain a second quantity of imaging media in a position capable of exposing the second quantity of imaging media to the feed mechanism. A securing mechanism is adapted and constructed to selectively secure the imaging media supply tray in the imaging system in a first orientation connecting the first access area to the feed mechanism, or in a second orientation connecting the second access area to the feed mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for stacking objects in a stack. The objects may be flat flexible objects with front and back edges being narrower than side walls. Accordingly, the objects may comprise mail pieces. Per the invention, the mail pieces are directed to a stacker. The stacker comprises an impact wall with abutting installation and limiting walls. Accordingly, the stack may be formed therebetween with the installation wall being urged towards the limiting wall so as to sandwich the stack. At least one diverter element or vain is included upstream from the stacker. A roller of a conveying element is positioned upstream from the upper most vain. An object is directed towards the impact wall. When the objects leading edge impacts the wall, the vain or roller closest to the trailing portion of the object causes the trailing portion to be urged towards the stack. The vains may be pivoted while the roller made to turn in a select manner.

Abstract: A machine processing printing-material sheets contains a first sheet transport drum and a second sheet transport drum disposed immediately after the first sheet transport drum in a sheet transport direction. The first sheet transport drum has gripper systems which describe a gripper flight circle during its rotation and a drum profile deviating substantially from a circular shape with outer contour regions running between the gripper systems and set back from the gripper flight circle. The second sheet transport drum has a sheet support surface with pneumatic grooves formed therein. The sheet support surface is composed of a first and second comb segments each with segment prongs. The pneumatic grooves are introduced into the segment prongs of at least one of the comb segments. The pneumatic grooves are preferably introduced both into the segment prongs of the first comb segment and into the segment prongs of the second comb segment.

Abstract: Paper separator 311 may be equipped with plurality of paper-separating fingers 312 for separating sheet(s) of paper 100 for image formation and abutting and/or backed off from photosensitive body or bodies 310b, paper separator 311 optionally comprising finger body or bodies 313 capable of abutting photosensitive body or bodies; spur(s) 314a capable of touching so as to guide sheet(s) of paper for image formation which has or have separated from photosensitive body or bodies; and/or support component(s) 315 pivotably supporting paper-separating finger(s) 312 so as to impart restoring force(s) thereto urging paper-separating finger(s) 312 to under the force(s) of its or their own weight(s) bring finger body or bodies 313 into abutting engagement with photosensitive body or bodies 310b, and so as to, when spur(s) is or are touching sheet(s) of paper for image formation, cause finger body or bodies 313 to at least partially overcome restoring force(s) produced by weight(s) of paper-separating finger(s) or portio

Abstract: The present invention discloses the puzzle for assembling game by arranging numbers to consecutive numbers or fixing up figure or color, etc. The purpose of the present invention is providing the puzzle for assembling the blocks having numbers, figures or colors, and is achieved by providing the puzzle playing the game. The puzzle according to the present invention can be solved by fitting together the blocks of which main building has the selected shape among the triangular prism, the square pillar, the hexagonal pillar, the square pillar having the round corners or the cylinder, arranging numbers to purposed consecutive numbers and fixing up figure and color.

Abstract: A single player child's game where game sticks are cut to predetermined lengths from stock material to form groups of sticks with each group having a given length. The sticks can be formed into letters of the alphabet to form a fun and educational game. The result is an attractive game that promotes creativity in learning letters, words and other alphanumeric or numeric symbols. A reference board or guide board my be provided to provide predetermined stick positions to aid younger children to first form letters. Older children can form artistic variations on letters and use the letters to form words.

Abstract: An improved, modular game board able to interlock together. The improved game board utilizing a number of generally hexagonal main board pieces having key receiving portions provided in their corners. The improved game board further utilizing a number of key portions, and these key portions having appendages able to be received into the key receiving portions for locking the main board pieces together. The improved game board providing a game playing surface which is locked together and which does not have semi-hexagonal game pieces located at the seams between adjoining main board pieces.

Abstract: A game, toy or article of manufacture includes a set of rules and at least one model. The model has multiple movable parts, where under the rules of play, the model begins in an assembled configuration. As the model loses points under the rules of play, at least some of the parts are removed from the model, or replaced with substitute parts. The model may be formed from a panel or other substantially planar member, with the individual pieces formed therein. Methods of game play, computer-implemented games, and other aspects of the invention are described herein. Many other options are possible, as described above.

Abstract: A method of playing a casino table wagering game with at least two players comprises wagering on an underlying game where players may receive a bonus for obtaining a player hand of at least a predetermined rank; placing a side bet that at least one player of the at least two players will obtain a player hand of at least a predetermined rank; playing a hand of the casino table wagering game to conclusion; determining if at least one of the at least two players has obtained a player hand of said at least a predetermined rank; if a player has not obtained a player hand of at least a predetermined rank, but that player has placed the side bet that at least one player of the at least two players will obtain a player hand of at least a predetermined rank, and if another player has obtained a player hand of at least a predetermined rank, awarding that player a predetermined proportional share of the bonus for obtaining a player hand of at least a predetermined rank.

Abstract: Games of skill or chance which provide a player, who has received a wild indicia during one game, with the opportunity to reserve that wild indicia, for use in a subsequent game.

Abstract: A calculator includes a base, on which a space with proper dimensions is provided for a liquid game to mount therein, so that the calculator provides not only functions of a general calculator but also the function of a liquid game, and is therefore novel and unique to have increased value.

Abstract: An electronic dart comprises a frame, a target grille rotatable in the frame, protective frames on the target grille target blocks on sector-shaped spaces of the target grille, a sensor assembly, a rear board threadedly secured to both the target grille and the frame, and a score display board on the bottom being at a relative long distance from the dart for preventing from being hit by errant darts. A replacement of the damaged target block can be done by first disengaging the rear board and the target grille from the frame. Furthermore, score signal is wirelessly sent to the score display board.

Abstract: A seal assembly and cartridge for sealing a space between a rotating member and a stationary member in which a sleeve extends around the rotating member and with the inner surface of the sleeve being spaced from the outer surface of the rotating member to form a gap. Pressurized fluid is introduced to the sleeve to establish and maintain a predetermined gap between the sleeve and the rotating member, so that the pressure of the fluid can be varied to maintain the predetermined gap despite variations of the diameter of the rotating member during its rotation.

Abstract: A backup metal O-ring seal is retained around the outer diameter of a seal retainer of an undersea hydraulic coupling member to seal a leak path around the seal retainer. The metal O-ring seal may be seated on a shoulder on the seal retainer. The backup metal seal is effective for high temperature and high pressure applications.

Abstract: A steam gland includes a steam inlet scroll and an extraction scroll axially spaced from one another defining high and low pressure regions. A seal body is disposed between the regions and includes a pair of brush seals axially spaced from one another. Intermediate the brush seals is a honeycomb seal. The hybrid brush seal/honeycomb seal combination minimizes steam leakage between the high and low pressure regions and eliminates the possibility of heat induced damage to the rotor while optimizing seal leakage performance.

Abstract: An annular seal and method of producing the same wherein the annular seal comprises an annular outer portion comprising an outward facing surface and an inward facing surface; an annular rubber portion having an outer face and an inner face, wherein the outer face of the annular rubber portion is bonded to the inward facing surface of the annular outer portion; and wherein the inner face of the rubber portion comprises a plurality of bulged areas. Preferably, the outer portion comprises polytetrafluoroethylene or perfluoroalkoxy. The bulged areas may be disposed radially inwardly or axially.

Abstract: In a high-pressure cylinder with an axial plunger, a seal assembly for scaling the gap between the cylinder wall and the plunger. The assembly is disposed in an annual recess in the wall having an open end and a bottom opposite thereto, and comprises a plunger-sealing ring, a cylinder-sealing ring, a resilient low-pressure ring, and an annual seal holder. The seal holder urges the plunger-sealing ring against the cylinder-sealing ring and the low-pressure ring, and urges the latter two rings against the recess bottom and against each other. The plunger-sealing ring and the cylinder-sealing ring are metallic, their mutual contact surfaces are fitted to each other, and the plunger-sealing ring has sufficient section modulus to ensure that under high pressure the contact and bending deformations at the mutual contact surfaces will be sufficiently small as to keep a tight fit therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a gasket and an object of the present invention is to provide a gasket capable of providing an excellent slidability and holding its sealability without applying lubricant and a gasket that can prevent a resin film from being peeled off of a gasket body and prevent the generation of a molding defect such as pinholes. The object can be attained according to a gasket installed slidably in an outer tube of a syringe, including a gasket body and a resin film formed of a material lower in coefficient of friction than a material of the gasket body, which covers at least an outer periphery of the gasket body, in which when a surface roughness of the resin film on the outer tube side is defined as Ra1 and a surface roughness of the resin film on the gasket body side is defined as Ra2, a relationship of 1.5 Ra1≦Ra2 is satisfied.

Abstract: The invention relates to a seal of the type V-ring. The seal comprises a body (7) with an inner side (13) for abutting, for example, a rotary shaft (1). The seal further comprises a lip (8) with a rear side (10) and a front side (9) with a lower portion (1/9 and an upper portion, the sealing surface (16). The sealing surface is intented to abut a surface rotary in relation to the seal (5), against which surface it is intended to seal. In order to prevent the seal (5) from being broken down by aggressive medium, it is made of PTFE. A resilient ring element (12) is provided to act on the lip (8) with a force, which results in that the sealing surface (16) will move in the direction to the surface it is intended to seal against. The resilient ring element (12) further is arranged so that it cannot come into contact with the aggressive medium.

Abstract: A tool holder for a hand supported impacting machine, which tool holder is suitable for receiving a tool having a shank portion on which is formed a retaining collar. The tool holder includes a tubular main body for receiving the tool and at least one locking element moveably mounted with respect to the main body and having an engaging portion moveable between a radially inner locked position in which the engaging portion is engageable with the retaining collar of the tool and a radially outer unlocked position in which a tool can be inserted into or removed from the tool holder. The tool holder additionally comprises a manually actuable sleeve moveable between a locked position in which the locking elements are held in their locked position and an unlocked position in which the engaging portions of the locking elements are moveable to their unlocked position.

Abstract: A micro-adjustable tool chuck comprises a first cylindrical body member (1) adapted for connection to a drive spindle, a second cylindrical body member (2) adapted to receive a tool bit in the end thereof, and moveable axially relative to the first body member (1), and means for drivingly connecting the first body member (1) to the second body member (2). A first screw thread (10) is formed on the outer surface of the first body member (1) and a second screw thread (11) is formed on the outer surface of the second body member (2). The first screw thread (10) is of a greater pitch (coarser) than the second screw thread (11).

Abstract: A drill chuck has a chuck body centered on and adapt d to be rotated about a longitudinal axis and unitarily formed with a plurality of forwardly open angled guides angularly spaced about the axis and with a rim, respective jaws displaceable along the guides in the chuck body and each formed with a row of teeth, and a tightening sleeve rotatably surrounding the body. A threaded ring rotatable on the body about the axis within the tightening sleeve is fixed to the sleeve and formed with a screwthread meshing with the teeth of the jaws so that rotation of the ring in one direction moves the jaws radially together and opposite rotation moves them radially apart. This threaded ring is formed with a radially outwardly open groove covered by the sleeve. In addition the tightening sleeve has an inwardly projecting welt engaged in the groove.

Abstract: Stabilizer for a motor vehicle with a torsion bar divided into two shafts 1 and 2, wherein the two shafts 1 and 2 are connected to one another via a mechanical coupling. The coupling has a locking disk, which is connected to a first of the two shafts 1, rotating with it in unison, and on the circumference of which at least one locking area is formed, and a housing 3, which is connected to the second shaft 2, rotating with it in unison. At least one locking means 10, which is complementary to the locking area and engages the locking area in the coupled state of the coupling, is mounted movably on the housing 3. Furthermore, a spring 11, by which the locking means 10 is pretensioned in the direction of the locking disk, is connected to the housing 3 and to the locking means 10.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adaptively damping relative motion between the wheels and the frame of a heavy duty truck having a frame suspended on wheels by a suspension system. An air spring is disposed between the frame and at least one of the wheels having a primary reservoir for holding air and a piston adapted to act upon the air in the reservoir to compress the air and thereby provide support for the frame. An auxiliary reservoir holds air and can be placed in fluid communication with the primary reservoir to increase an effective volume of air upon which the piston acts. A control valve selectively places the auxiliary reservoir in communication with the primary reservoir based on vehicle operating parameters. The control valve can be actuated mechanically by forces acting on the wheels or by a controller that controls the valve based on wheel torque and road roughness.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile viscous matter pump comprising a hydraulically operated support construction, a distribution boom (16) and a pneumatic cushioned trailing axle (42). To ensure stability during the pump operation, the trailing axle (42) can be lifted by means of a lifting element (58) by bleeding the pneumatic suspension, whereby the bleeding of the pneumatic suspension (44) and the operation of the lifting element (58) and a locking element (64) can be controlled according to the on-condition of the auxiliary drive (NA) of the vehicle motor, used to supply the compressed oil of the drive hydraulics.

Abstract: A method for controlling the ride height in a suspension of an over the highway truck or tractor based on rear axle load. A load on the rear axle is measured. An optimum ride height is calculated at core response to correct drive lighted angles based on the rear axle load. The actual ride height is measured. The difference between the optimum ride height and the actual ride height is calculated. A component of the suspension, such as an air spring, is adjusted to adjust the actual ride height to a height closer to the optimum ride height.

Abstract: An adjustable frame assembly for skates to allow for attachment of the frame in a number of positions along the length of the boot portion of the skate. The assembly comprises a skate foot bed containing two recessed portions each containing an opening flanked by ribs corresponding to ribs on a T-nut allowing the T-nut to rest in a variety of positions in the recessed portion. The T-nut further comprises a threaded opening for coupling to a fastener which attaches the frame to the base of the boot portion of the skate.

Abstract: An adjustable in-line skate has a rigid frame, a plurality of wheels rotatably secured to the frame in a line, a sole plate secured to the frame having a heel portion and a toe portion, and a boot mounted on the sole plate. The boot has a toe shell and a separate heel shell. The heel and toe shells are each adjustably secured to the sole plate for adjustment of the overall length of the boot, so that two separate adjustment points are provided.

Abstract: In a shopping cart, which is nestable into a preceding, similarly constructed cart and into which a following, similarly constructed cart is nestable, a chassis has front and rear casters including two rear, transversely spaced casters and has two generally longitudinal members, each extending along one side of the chassis, on which two camming elements are mounted. A transversely extending member is mounted to and bridges the longitudinal members. The transversely extending member is adapted to be upwardly cammed by the camming elements of a following, similarly constructed cart, which is being nested into the shopping cart, so as to elevate the rear casters of the shopping cart.

Abstract: The current invention provides a motorized single wheel cart. The motorized cart is particularly suited for use in wilderness areas lacking modern roads. The motorized cart has a readily detachable motor and is capable of carrying several hundred pounds of cargo. The motorized cart will readily traverse streams, downed trees and rocks while carrying big game. Additionally, the motorized cart will be useful for search and rescue squads assisting injured hikers and backpackers.

Abstract: A worm 1 is composed of an annular tooth body 11 having a tooth 10 on the outer surface thereof, a core body 12 inserted inside the annular tooth body 11; and an elastic coupler 13, which can be transformed in the radial direction, for coupling the core body 12 with the annular tooth body 11. The worm 1 is engaged with the worm wheel with the elastic coupler 13 being transformed in the radial direction in such a manner that a negative amount of backlash is generated at the engagement portion. This can be also employed for the worm wheel. With a reduction gear combination having this structure, the backlash amount at the engagement portion can be adjusted to a proper amount without selecting elements such as the worm and the worm wheel to be assembled.

Abstract: A steerable lift axle/suspension system for a heavy-duty vehicle such as a semi-trailer or a straight truck, includes a pair of steering dampers and a backup lock. The steering dampers minimize shimmy of the steerable wheels during over-the-road operation of the vehicle, and straighten the wheels on such steerable axle/suspension systems having a lift feature when the system is raised. The backup lock secures the wheels in a straightened position when such liftable systems are raised and the vehicle is backing up, to minimize vehicle handling problems. The steering dampers and backup lock are mounted at a location off the axle tube of the axle and on the axle/suspension system beams, to eliminate stress on the axle that would otherwise be caused by welded attachment of such components to the axle tube, thereby enabling use of a less robust, more lightweight axle tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to the individualization of therapy on the basis of a phenotypic profile of an individual. More specifically, the present invention relates to the use of metabolic phenotyping for the individualization of treatment with anticoagulants.

Abstract: A retractable step for use with a vehicle comprises a stepping member having a stepping deck, a first arm, a second arm, a motor and a stop. The first arm has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The second arm also has a first end pivotally attached to the vehicle, and a second end pivotally attached to the stepping member. The motor is drivingly connected to the first arm such that a rotation of the motor causes rotation of the first arm about its first end and moves the stepping member from a retracted position to an extended position, or vice versa. The stop is located within the range of motion of the second arm such that the second arm bears against the stop when the stepping member is in the extended position. The first and second arms are situated such that the first arm is loaded in compression and the second arm is loaded in tension when the stepping member is in the extended position and a load is placed upon it.

Abstract: vehicle has two vertical wheels, each fixed to a horizontal axle. A carriage that can hold a human rider is positioned in between the wheels, freely suspended from the axle. The wheels can be fixed to the same horizontal axle and the perimeter of the wheels can be connected so as to enclose the carriage. Alternatively, the wheels can be unconnected and fixed to different, but concentric, axles so that they can rotate independently. The vehicle can be unpowered, powered by the rider, or powered by an engine. It can be adapted to ride on land, water, or snow and ice.

Abstract: A barrier-free wheelchair constructed entirely of plastic or non-metal components. The device is designed to facilitate the passage of wheelchair occupants through magnetometers, such as those utilized for airport security. The present invention is non-collapsible in nature, as the device is intended for on-site usage and not for transport in vehicles and the like. Due to its materials and construction, the wheelchair of the present invention also allows for a solid non-sling seat, is pilferage resistant, and provides multiple surfaces upon which indicia, such as corporate graphics, may appear. In addition, consistent with pre-existing wheelchairs, the present invention allows for the removable attachment of a variety of accessories, including foot rests and trays.

Abstract: An improved telescopic suspension assembly provides more precise suspension and steering control for a vehicle having a steerable front wheel, such as a bicycle or motorcycle. The assembly includes a steering tube which is mounted in a head tube of the vehicle frame and coupled to handlebar for steering the front wheel. The steering tube is coupled to a pair of upper stanchion tubes which slide axially and telescopingly with respect to a pair of lower slider tubes mounted to each side of an axle for the front wheel. The stanchion and slider tubes have a cross-sectional shape that is a non-round, smooth curve, such as an ellipse. The preferred elliptical shape has an aspect ratio of minor to major ellipse axes of about 70% to 80%. In one embodiment, typically used for a bicycle, the steering tube is mounted in the head tube and has a lower end mounted in a fork crown below the head tube which has sides secured to the upper ends of the stanchion tubes.

Abstract: A wheel support portion for a bicycle, such as a front fork assembly, arranged to reduce vibrations that originate at the bicycle wheel and are transmitted to the rider of the bicycle through the wheel support. Desirably, the front fork assembly is configured to be supported by a bicycle frame and includes a pair of fork legs, which extend in a downward direction along opposing sides of a front wheel of the bicycle. Preferably, the fork legs are configured to support the front wheel at their lower ends. An intermediate portion of each of the fork legs defines a cavity. A damping member comprised of a vibration damping material is positioned within the cavity. Preferably, the cavity passes completely through each fork leg in a lateral direction and the damping member is retained within the cavity by a friction fit therebetween.

Abstract: A handlebar for two-wheeled vehicle has a channel portion and two bent internal tubes wherein the channel portion has an internal diameter and the two bent internal tubes each have an external diameter slightly smaller than the internal diameter of the channel portion, the two bent internal tubes being disposed within the hollow portion with surfaces of the bent internal tubes in contact with the surface of the channel portion, whereby the thickness of the handlebar is increased in order to enhance the strength thereof.

Abstract: A gooseneck for connecting a tractor and a trailer for transportation includes a support arm. The support arm has a first end that is pivotally coupled to a fifth wheel of the tractor. The support arm is pivotable to raise and lower a second end of the support arm relative to a tractor bed. A generally downwardly extending portion is coupled to the second end of the support arm for releasably attaching to a forward end of the trailer. A pneumatic assembly is coupled to the support arm. The pneumatic assembly is in communication with the tractor bed to lift and lower the generally downwardly extending portion relative to the tractor bed.