Abstract: A socket connector for connecting a card edge module to a circuit board includes a base extending along a longitudinal axis between opposed ends. The base includes a mounting face configured to be received on the circuit board. Support towers are integrally formed with the base and located at the opposed ends of the base. The support towers extend upward from the base away from the mounting face. Each of the base and the towers includes open sided mating surfaces that collectively define a mating plane. The open sided mating surfaces are configured to receive the card edge module from a lateral direction with respect to the mating plane when the card edge module is loaded into the connector. Electrical contacts are held in the base. The contacts have mating ends extending laterally from the open-sided mating surface of the base. The contacts have mounting ends that extend from the mounting face.

Abstract: A connector includes a first housing, a second housing arranged on an upper face of the first housing, and a cover engaged to at least one of the first housing and the second housing so as to cover the upper face of the first housing and an upper face of the second housing. The first housing, the second housing and the cover are engaged to each other at a first engagement state and a second engagement state. A plurality of press contact terminals with wires are inserted into the first housing and the second housing respectively in the first engagement state. Spaces for allowing the insertion of crimp terminals into the first housing and the second housing respectively are formed between the first housing and the second housing and between the cover and the second housing in the first engagement state. The second housing and the cover are advanced into the spaces in the second engagement state.

Abstract: An electrical tap connector is provided having a housing that forms a first attachment section aligned with a second attachment section. Each attachment section forms a conductor receiving orifice into a conductor receiving channel. The housing about each section forms a pair of opposed and offset screw receiving orifices which are threadingly engaged with a set screw. The each pair of opposed and offset set screws mechanically bind an electrical conduct in a tortuous, crimped pattern within the receiving channel.

Abstract: A female terminal fitting (12) has tube (19) for receiving a male terminal fitting (10). A main spring (27) is cantilevered forwardly from the tube (19) and an auxiliary spring (30) is cantilevered forwardly at the outer side of the main spring piece (27). Stoppers (32) bulge out from the opposite sides of the auxiliary spring (30) for preventing the auxiliary spring (30) from being displaced up when the free end of the auxiliary spring (30) is thrust up from the outer side. Receiving portions (33) are left in the tube (19) during the forming of the auxiliary spring (30) and contact the stoppers (32). Thus, even if an external matter strikes against the auxiliary spring (30), the auxiliary spring (30) will not deform excessively in thrust-up direction.

Abstract: An electrical connector for use between two devices having conductive regions between which an electrical connection is to be formed, the electrical connection comprising, a housing including a passage therethrough, a conductive element of an elongate conductive material disposed within the passage. The conductive element is formed to define an upper contact region and a lower contact region for engagement to an upper the device and a lower the device respectively. Also provided are a location region which secures the conductive element to the housing, a beam region including a first end dependent from the location region and a free end at or towards which the upper contact region is located. The beam is resiliently deflectable to a position wherein the upper device is positioned for use having the upper contact region pressed thereto and wherein the upper contact is biased towards the first position. A fulcrum providing region is positioned.

Abstract: An electrical socket is provided that holds an array of contacts. Each contact includes first and second contact elements that are configured to be joined in an electrically common manner. The first and second contact elements have first and second contact beams, respectively, that are oriented to project toward one another and to overlap. The first and second contact elements each have base portions that are formed separate from one another and are configured to be joined to a common conductive path on the circuit board.

Abstract: A marine propulsion system comprising a push rod (50) for adjusting the pitch of propeller blades (34). The push rod (50) has a screw-threaded bolt (60) engaged with a nut (78). The nut (78) carries a bevel gear (84) by which the nut (78) can be rotated to cause the bolt (60) and therefore the push rod (50) to move longitudinally. The push rod (50) is connected to a claw with arms couple with pins (170). The pins (170) engage eccentric shafts (174) for unlocking a propeller base (190) so the base (190) can rotate around a transverse axis. The base (190) has an inclined surface which engages with an inclined surface defining an opening in the propeller's hub therefore locking the propeller blade (34) in position. The inclined surfaces are disengaged by rotation of the eccentric shaft (174) thus the propeller blades (34) can be rotated to adjust the pitch and than the inclined surfaces re-engage locking the propeller blade (34) in the pitch adjusted position.

Abstract: There is provided a hydraulic steering assembly for applying a force to a tiller of a marine, outboard propulsion unit. The steering assembly comprises a hydraulic steering actuator including a cylinder and an elongated piston rods. A pivot member is pivotally mounted on the tiller of the propulsion unit for pivoting about a first link axis which is parallel to the steering axis. There is a pair of actuator arms, each actuator arm being connected to the cylinder and having a portion extending radially outwards with respect to the piston rod axis. Each actuator arm includes an integral cylindrical projection. The pivot member has a complementary cylindrical recess for each integral cylindrical projection and the pivot member thereby rotatably receives each cylindrical projection. Preferably, each cylindrical projection and actuator arm comprise one piece. At least one of the actuator arms is removable.

Abstract: The calibration procedure allows an upward maximum limit of tilt to be automatically determined and stored as an operator rotates a marine propulsion device relative to a marine vessel with a particular indication present. That indication can be a grounded circuit point which informs a microprocessor that at calibration procedure is occurring in relation to an upward trim limit. When the ground wire is removed or disconnected from the circuit point, the microprocessor knows that the calibration process is complete. During the rotation of the outboard motor or marine propulsion device in an upward direction, both the angular position of the outboard motor and the direction of change of a signal from a trim sensor are stored.

Abstract: An exhaust system for a small-sized boat which can efficiently reduce exhaust noises in a low frequency band includes a water muffler provided at one location along exhaust pipes extending from an engine disposed in a boat body. The inside of the water muffler is divided into a single expansion chamber and a resonator chamber, and a front exhaust pipe coupled to the engine and a rear exhaust pipe opened to the outside of the boat are connected to the expansion chamber. Between the front exhaust pipe opened to the inside of the expansion chamber and the rear exhaust pipe, a water-controlling plate is provided in an upper side of the expansion chamber.

Abstract: A multi-purpose mariner safety and motor housing arrangement for the secure enclosure of the lower drive unit of an inboard/outboard or outboard motor for a boat. The multi-purpose housing preferably comprises a left half housing and a right half housing hingedly connected along a front edge thereof. The left half housing and the right half housing are arranged to lockably enclose a lower drive unit of a motor. The housing arrangement encloses a plurality of accessible, watertight sub enclosures disposed within the left and the right half housings for safe containment of emergency gear therewithin, to provide floatation and safety to mariners even when the housing is removed from the motor.

Abstract: A marker for marking debris, weed lines and/or other objects floating in a body of water. The marker can consist of a tube, such as a plastic tube having a weighted end such that the marker floats upright in the ocean. Preferably, the marker is coated with a fluorescent color such as the color orange or other highly visible coloring. A reflective strip of material can also be disposed at the end (non-weighted end) of the marker which extends out of the water. A loop can be provided at the non-weighted end of the marker such that the marker can be retrieved by a gaff, boat hook, fishing rod, etc. A piece of floating material, such as foam, can be disposed at an intermediate portion of the tube and defines the amount of material or portion of the tube that extends out of the water.

Abstract: The present flying ski is designed to be towed behind a conventional powered watercraft by a standard ski tow rope or similar device having a handle that can be held by a human rider. In use, the rider is seated on the seat of the flying ski and towed by the watercraft. The improved flying ski comprises an elongate board and a seat that extends generally perpendicular to and upward from the board to support the seated rider's buttocks. The seat preferably includes a flexible C-shaped member for absorbing impacts during use. The rider's legs extend toward the front of the board and are secured by a pair of foot holders that attach to the board. An elongate strut extends downward from the board and couples the seat to a planing blade. The elongate strut is preferably formed with a V-shape wherein the length from the front edge to the back edge of the strut is greater along an upper portion for enhanced structural integrity.

Abstract: A rider is suspended a distance beneath a lift cable and moved over a region of water with incoming waves. The distance that the rider is suspended beneath the lift cable is controllably increased and, thereafter, the rider enters the water, such as to surf the waves. The rider can control the increase in distance individually, lowering himself or herself at will after spotting a desirable place to enter the water, e.g., just after the crest of an incoming wave. The initial distance, i.e., the distance below the cable before the rider is lowered toward the water, can be set to carry the rider high enough to pass over the crests of the waves. Various other aspects, apparatus, and variations are also disclosed.

Abstract: A triode structure of a field emission display and fabrication method thereof. A plurality of cathode layers arranged in a matrix is formed overlying a dielectric layer. A plurality of emitting layers arranged in a matrix is formed overlying the cathode layers, respectively. A plurality of lengthwise-extending gate lines is formed on the dielectric layer, in which each of the gate layers is disposed between two adjacent columns of the cathode layers.

Abstract: A coil spring toy with the ball-trapping tool attached to one or more ends is disclosed. The coil spring toy may be used with a game apparatus having a toy stairway, and a set of lightweight balls of a specific size. A method to play the game includes mechanically starting the spring toy to move downstairs due to gravity and its known properties. If started properly, a spring toy will capture the balls, located on the stairs, with the trapping tool, while it lands on each stair. Captured balls may be kept inside spring toy while it moves and finally stops. The balls may be transparent and may be filled with particles to produce additional visual and sound effects. Collected balls can be manually released out of spring toy by means of its stretching. After balls are released and counted, and are placed back on the stairs, the action may be repeated.

Abstract: A method of using finishing aids for advanced finishing control is described. A finishing surface is used generally to induce frictional wear. The finishing aids with preferred in situ control can improve control of the coefficient of friction, the tangential force of friction, a finishing rate, a regional finishing rate(s), a differential finishing rate, and help reduce unwanted defects. A finishing aid can reduce friction. A lubricant is an illustrative finishing aid. The method uses finishing control subsystem having a multiplicity of operative process sensors along with tracked information to improve in situ control of finishing. Differential finishing rate methods are described to differentially finish semiconductor wafers. Differential lubricating film methods are described to differentially finish semiconductor wafers. Planarization and localized finishing can be improved using differential lubricating boundary layer methods of finishing with improved real time control.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for machining spiral bevel gears a rotationally symmetric tool is driven about its axis of rotation as it is moved, along with a workpiece, into a respective initial starting position. The workpiece is rotated about one tooth index, and a complete tooth space is processed via a generating method to a preset generating depth. The tool and workpiece each reach first end roll positions and are then moved into respective second starting positions near the previously reached end roll position. The workpiece is once again rotated about a tooth index and another complete tooth space is generated using a roll direction reversed relative to the initial tooth generating process. The tool and workpiece reach a second end roll position near the first start position and these steps are repeated until all the tooth spaces of the workpiece have been processed.

Abstract: A polishing apparatus has a polishing table (12) with a polishing surface (10) attached thereon, and a top ring (20) for pressing a workpiece (W) against the polishing surface (10). The top ring (20) has a housing (40) and a retainer ring (44) vertically movable in the housing (40) for holding an outer circumferential edge of the workpiece (W). The polishing apparatus includes a vertically moving mechanism operable to vertically move the top ring (20), a bracket (28) vertically movable together with the top ring (20), a stopper (32) adjustable in vertical position to prevent downward movement of the bracket (28), and a sensor (36) for detecting a distance between the stopper (32) and the bracket (28).

Abstract: A substrate holding apparatus can accurately control temperature of a substrate in a direct manner with a relatively simple arrangement. The substrate holding apparatus has a top ring configured to hold a substrate to be polished and press the substrate against a polishing surface, and an air bag attached to the top ring so as to be brought into contact with a rear face of the substrate. The substrate holding apparatus also has a regulator operable to regulate a temperature control fluid to be supplied into the air bag, and a flow regulating valve operable to regulate a flow rate of the temperature control fluid discharged from the air bag.

Abstract: A polishing pad (20) for polishing a wafer (32) or other article, the pad having a groove network (60) configured to vary the residence time across the wafer track of the reaction products formed by the interaction of reactants in the polishing medium (46) with structure on the wafer. The groove network has a first portion (72) that may extend substantially radially outward and a second portion (74) that is configured to vary the speed of the radially outward flow of the polishing medium.

Abstract: A platen structure of a polishing apparatus for semiconductor wafer and a method for exchanging a polishing pad affixed to the same are provided in which the polishing pad supported by the platen is exchanged with convenience within a short time. The platen structure of the polishing apparatus in which the polishing pad attached to the platen of the polishing apparatus comprises a pad plate to which the polishing pad for polishing a wafer is attached, and a platen body combined with the pad plate and having at least one vacuum hole formed thereto to provide a vacuum passage.

Abstract: A system for the grinding of unencumbered and encumbered sections of rail includes a locomotive that pulls a first and a second grinding module. The first grinding module is movable between a first and a second position. In the first position, the first grinding module is presented at angle enabling grinding of unencumbered section of rail while in the second position, the first grinding module is presented at an able enabling grinding of the encumbered section of rail. The locomotive continues in non-stop forward motion while the first grinding module is moved back and forth between its first and second positions. The second grinding module is generally used only for grinding of encumbered rail sections and is used simultaneously with the first grinding module in its second position.

Abstract: An arcuate, preferably cylindrical, magnetic shunt bar supports a plurality of pin magnets having alternate north and south orientations, defining a ring-shaped array of magnets of alternating orientation. The magnet free ends opposite the shunt bar are positioned to conform closely to the shape of a surface to be sealed, forming a narrow gap therebetween containing a multi-polar magnetic field extending beyond the free ends in a direction substantially orthogonal to the surface. The axes of the magnets may be disposed at any desired angular orientation to the surface. Magnetorheological fluid (MRF) in the gap is magnetically stiffened and held as a dynamic seal. The arrangement is useful as a shaft seal, wherein the seal surface passes axially through the array, and also as a wiper for MRF from a carrier surface wherein the surface passes by the array.

Abstract: There is provided a substrate polishing machine which comprises a polishing surface and a substrate carrier for holding a substrate and bringing it into contact with the polishing surface. The substrate carrier comprises a carrier body, a substrate holding member for holding a substrate with a surface of the substrate to be polished being directed towards the polishing surface. The substrate holding member is mounted on the carrier body in such a manner that the substrate holding member is movable both towards and away from the polishing surface. The substrate polishing machine further comprises a substrate holding member positioning device provided on a side of the substrate holding member opposite to that used for holding the substrate. The substrate holding member positioning device has a flexible member which defines a chamber, and which, upon introduction of a non-compressible fluid, is expanded in a direction towards the polishing surface.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a dielectric layer (144, 156) overlying a semiconductor substrate (28) is uniformly polished. During polishing, the perimeter (32) of the semiconductor substrate (28) overlies a peripheral region (16, 48, 66, 86, 120) of a polishing pad (6, 42, 60, 80, 100) and an edge portion (36) of the front surface of semiconductor substrate (28) is not in contact with the front surface (18, 50, 68, 88, 122) of the polishing pad (6, 42, 60, 80, 100), in the peripheral region (16, 48, 66, 86, 120). As a result, the polishing rate at the edge portion (36) of the semiconductor substrate (28) is reduced, and the semiconductor substrate (28) is polished with improved center to edge uniformity. Since the semiconductor substrate (28) is polished with improved center to edge uniformity, die yield is increased because die located within the edge portion (36) of the semiconductor substrate (28) are not over polished.

Abstract: A web-format polishing pad for mechanical and/or chemical-mechanical planarization of microelectronic substrate assemblies, and methods for making and using such a web-format pad. In one aspect of the invention, a web-format polishing pad for planarizing a microelectronic substrate is made by slicing a cylindrical body of pad material along a cutting line that is at least substantially parallel to a longitudinal centerline of the body and at a radial depth inward from an exterior surface of the body. For example, a web of pad material can be sliced from the body by rotating the cylindrical body about the longitudinal centerline and pressing a cutting element against the rotating cylindrical body along the cutting line. The cutting element can be a knife with a sharp edge positioned at the cutting line and a face extending along a tangent of the cylindrical body.

Abstract: An adjustable moveable support for an existing drywall sander. A plurality of legs are centrally mounted and extend from a collar to rotating caster wheels which rest on a floor. The caster wheels allow for movement of the moveable support. Extending through the collar is a vertical boom with a mounting sleeve at one end of the vertical boom. An existing pole-like drywall sander may be mounted in the mounting sleeve. The height of the vertical boom may be adjusted to place the existing drywall sander in proximity to a drywall surface to be sanded. Control handles mounted on the legs allow an operator to engage the sander on the drywall sander on the drywall surface to be sanded. The caster wheels allow the device to be readily moved to appropriately sand seams or other surfaces in the drywall. A control handle may be mounted on either side of the adjustable support so that it may be used with equal ease by left-handed or right-handed users.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically portioning workpieces, such as meat products, into pieces having acceptable process time (e.g., acceptable cook time) are provided. The method includes generally five steps. First, measurement data of a workpiece carried on a conveyor are obtained. Second, a tentative cut path to portion the workpiece into one or more portions is defined based on the measurement data. Third, each portion is divided into one or more virtual sections and process-time data (i.e., cook-time data) for each virtual section is calculated according to a predefined process-time algorithm. Fourth, it is determined whether the process-time data of each of all the virtual sections of the portion to be cut from the workpiece fall within predefined process-time constraints. If no, fifth, the tentative cut path is redefined, and the method returns to the third step until the process-time data for all the virtual sections fall within the predefined process-time constraints.

Abstract: A chiral compound, particularly a chiral secondary alcohol, can be efficiently resolved under a mild condition by acylation with an alkenyl acetate in the presence of a novel aminocyclopentadienyl ruthenium complex, an enzyme catalyst, and a base.

Abstract: An agricultural machine having at least one crop processing work unit, a plurality of crop transport units operatively assembled as a straw walker step, wherein the crop transport units convey crop streams in opposite directions and are spaced apart defining a crop through-gap, and a cleaning device having a forced-draught fan before the cleaning device, further comprising an exhaust fan located after the cleaning device, wherein the transport units are located between the forced-draught fan and the exhaust fan, wherein an air stream is produced by the forced-draught fan and the exhaust fan and is directed from the forced-draught fan to the exhaust fan, and wherein the air stream improves a cleaning process in the straw walker through-gap of the straw walker step.

Abstract: A method for enabling interaction with a shared game data file in a game device is provided. The method comprises: providing logic to perform one or more actions associated with the shared game data file; and providing logic to cause the game device to perform an action in the one or more actions with the shared game data file, the shared game data file allowing data associated with a first game in the shared game data file to affect actions in a second game.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for resolving a hand of blackjack played by a player. If it is determined that the hand of blackjack has resulted in a push, then it is determined if the player has won the hand of blackjack based on a random outcome. For example, a dealer may receive from the player an indication of a wager amount associated with a hand of blackjack. The hand of blackjack may then be played according to traditional rules. If it is determined that the hand has resulted in a push, an indication of a random outcome may be received. The random outcome may be, for example, statistically independent of the hand of blackjack. Based on the random outcome, it is determined if the player has won the hand of blackjack. If the player has won, he or she receives payment of a winning amount based on the wager amount.

Abstract: A gaming machine displays multiple game outcome presentations to one or more players playing the gaming machine. A player may initiate a new game on the gaming machine while the outcome of a previous game is being presented to the player. For a number of different games, two or more game outcomes may be presented simultaneously to the player on the gaming machine. The game outcome presentations for two or more of the games may appear to interact. However, the game outcomes determined by the gaming machine are independent of one another and do not depend on the game outcome presentation. Many different combinations of games may be played simultaneously on the gaming machine.

Abstract: Methods of playing games of chance and gaming devices comprising multiple wagering options. In one aspect, a single wagering unit activates a plurality of pay lines. In another aspect, at least one wager is randomly assigned to at least one pay line. Other aspects include novel arrangements of pay lines and wagering options to add excitement and enjoyment to the gaming experience. According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, one or more indicia for a particular pay line are received for display thereon from at least one other gaming device.

Abstract: A gaming device having a die or dice directly associated with the reels in the primary game. One embodiment includes a mechanical die shaker mounted directly adjacent to the reels of the gaming device. The die shaker includes a suitable container that houses at least one die. In one embodiment, the gaming device activates the mechanical die shaker to shake or actuate the die simultaneously with the spinning of the reels. If the player obtains one or more predetermined symbols or combinations of symbols on one or more paylines of the reels, the player obtains an award associated with the position of the shaken die. In this embodiment, if the player does not obtain one or more predetermined symbols or combinations of symbols on one or more paylines of the reels, the player will not obtain any award based on the shaken die.

Abstract: An electronic gambling unit for allowing a user to play a main gambling game and a bonus round game, and for dispensing value to the user at the conclusion of the bonus round game, may generally include a display unit capable of generating color images or other display mechanism capable of displaying symbols associated with the main gambling game and the bonus round game. The electronic gambling unit may further include an input device that allows the user to make a plurality of input selections, a currency-accepting mechanism capable of allowing the user to deposit a medium of currency, a value-dispensing mechanism capable of dispensing value to the user, and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit, the input device, the currency-accepting mechanism, and the value-dispensing mechanism. The controller may include a processor and a memory operatively coupled to the processor.

Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to a method and apparatus for operating a gaming device having a flat rate play session costing a flat rate price. The flat rate play session spans multiple plays on the gaming device over a pre-established duration. The gaming device identifies price parameters and determines the flat rate price of playing the gaming device based on those price parameters. In one embodiment, identifying price parameters includes receiving player selected price parameters. In another embodiment, price parameters further incorporate operator selected price parameters. Should the player decide to pay the flat rate price, the player simply deposits the necessary funds into the gaming device or makes a credit account available for the gaming device to debit. Once the player initiates play, the gaming device tracks the duration remaining in the flat rate play session and stops the play when the given period has elapsed.

Abstract: A gaming device which simulates movement of the gaming device screen. The screen displays certain imagery, and after a predetermined event occurs the computer of the gaming device repositions the imagery, causing the screen to appear to move. This feature, usable in primary games and bonus rounds, enhances the enjoyment and entertainment which players experience.

Abstract: Systems and methods for wagering on game outcomes allow a player to wager on game outcomes resulting from linked gaming devices linked to a primary gaming device being played by the player. A primary game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on a primary game and a linked game display shows game plays and outcomes and allows wagering on linked games. Both the primary and linked gaming devices may be the same type of gaming device, or they may be two different types of gaming devices, such as gaming devices for playing slot games, card games, keno, and the like. Further, either or both of the primary and linked games may allow bonus game outcomes resulting in a bonus game having bonus game awards.

Abstract: A memory cartridge system includes a main body, and a main body ROM incorporated in the main body is stored with a warning message display program, and a memory cartridge attachable to or detachable from the main body is stored with a karaoke program. When the memory cartridge is not attached, the warning message display program is mapped to an address space in a first manner, whereby the warning message display program is started. On the other hand, when the memory cartridge is attached, the warning message display program and the karaoke program are mapped to the address space in a second manner, whereby the karaoke program can be started.

Abstract: An inexpensive mechanical fuse having a high fatigue limit ratio and high rupture reliability, and superior in forming performance, and a method of manufacturing the same are presented. The mechanical fuse is composed of Fe-based sintered alloy, and comprises an inner rim 2 fixed to one power transmission shaft, an outer rim 3 fixed to the other power transmission shaft, and plural arms 4 for linking the inner rim 2 and outer rim 3, which are formed integrally. The arms 4 include rupture portions 6 which are ruptured when exposed to an overload torque. By treating in steam, an iron oxide phase is formed in the surface layer and pore inner wall. The iron oxide phase is effective to form round pores and lower the notch sensitivity. As a result, the fatigue strength and fatigue limit ratio are enhanced.

Abstract: A vertical wind tunnel flight simulator comprises a flight chamber wherein a flier may experience a freefall simulation. Airflow to support the flier is induced by fans connected above the flight chamber through a duct. A staging area having openings to the flight chamber is adjacent to the flight chamber. One or two return air ducts are used to return air from the fans outlet to the fans inlet. Opposed louvers are included on at least one duct segment thereby regulating the temperature via forcing ambient air into the simulator. The use of many duct segments having diverging walls adds commercial value to the system by lowering the height. Mounting components on the roof and behind walls creates a spectacular pedestrian viewing scene of people in flight.

Abstract: A combination pool table/ping pong table having height adjustment means for raising and lowering simultaneously the four corners of the game table. This allows the game of pool to be played at a proper regulation height and also allows the ping pong table to be used at a proper regulation height. A ping pong table surface is formed from a plurality of panels that rest on the top edge of the game table. These panels can be removably connected to each other. There is a storage rack assembly positioned in a chamber beneath the playing surface of the pool table that allows the ping pong table panels to be stored out of sight when not in use. There are two different embodiments of height adjustment means for raising and lowering the height of the game table.

Abstract: The present invention provides for an apparatus and method for conveying a bowling pin into a Pin Sock at a bowling alley. This invention stitches a Hardened Inserting into a Pin Sock. The lip of the Hardened Insert extends beyond the end of output exit of the Pin Sock. Moreover, the output exit of the Pin Sock is larger than traditional Pin Socks. The insertion of a Hardening Insert makes the Pin Sock, and in particular the lower end of the Pin Sock more durable against the constant wear and tear caused by bowling pins entering the sock from an Overflow Chute. By reducing this wear and tear, the bowling pins exiting the Pin Sock would cause less damage to the Transport Band where the pins are deposited after exiting the Pin Sock. Additionally, the enlarged output exit reduces the possibility of pin jams as compared to traditional Pin Socks.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the game of golf and golf accessories more particularly, to an alignment device for setting a player's stance. This invention relates to golf training devices and the method of using the devices. Specifically disclosed herein is a device for stabilizing a golfer's feet and stance while the golfer practices the swing. The device may be employed in the process of hitting a golf ball or executing a swinging motion of a golf club without actually contacting a golf ball or a golf ball being present.

Abstract: The golf training device comprises an arm band for attachment on the lead arm, above the elbow, and a resilient cord securable at one end to the arm band and having means at the other end for selectively attaching the cord on a golf club below the grip. A general method aspect of the invention comprises attaching an arm band to the golfer's leading arm above the elbow, connecting a resilient cord from the arm band to an attachment means on the club below the grip, assuming a stance by holding the grip of the club with both hands so that the club shaft extends in front and between legs of the golfer, and extending the hands to stretch the cord between the arm band and the shaft until the club head is in a desired position. The golfer maintains the stretch in the cord while moving the club back and forth in either a short or full swing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a golf club set having harmonized golf club performance among the club numbers. In the golf club set, for at least three golf clubs, a ratio or a sum of a frequency, the frequency being measured by vibrating a tip portion of a golf club shaft constituting each of the golf clubs, and a frequency, the frequency being measured by vibrating a rear end portion of the golf club shaft, is determined in relation with order of the club number.

Abstract: A golf club head includes a front body, a middle body, a back body integrally. The middle body is disposed between the front body and the back body. The middle body includes a middle crown constituting a middle portion of a crown portion in back and forth directions, a middle side constituting middle portions of both side surfaces on a toe side and a heel side in the back and forth directions, a middle sole constituting a middle portion of a sole portion in the back and forth directions. The middle body may include aluminum alloy. The front body and the back body may include titanium alloy.

Abstract: A golf club head striking face is provided, including a plurality of grooves, wherein at least one groove has a first and second side. Each side includes a bottom, a lower section, and an upper section. The lower section is substantially planar and disposed between the bottom and the striking face. The upper section is substantially planar and disposed between the lower section and the striking face. A first draft angle is measured between the upper sections of the first and second sides, and a second draft angle is measured between the lower sections and the first and second sides, wherein the first draft angle is greater than the second draft angle. In addition, the distance between the first and second sides continuously increases from the bottom to the striking face.