Abstract: This invention creates a new and truly scientifically advanced design and structuring of golf club heads based on Sir Isaac Newton's First Law of Motion. A very precise and controlled path of inertial swing is then developed by this gyroscopic club head. This is accomplished by utilizing a spherical metal weight positioned rearward of the striking surface. Further, a weight is positioned at the club head's center of gravity. Further again, a metal spherical weight is positioned at the club head's center of gravity. All this creates and results in a smooth, easy and natural flowing swing which is in one arc line and in one plane. The concept presented herein, enables the manufacture of unlimited variety of golf clubs.

Abstract: A golf putter head is disclosed wherein the putter head has a sole that defines an arcuate surface in two directions—from the toe to the heel and from the tail or rear end of the putter head to the putter face. As a result, the position of the putter head, hosel and shaft may be moved by the golfer without adversely affecting the performance of the putter. Further, the arcuate surface of the sole from the tail to the putter face reduces drag or friction in the event the putter head strikes the ground before striking the ball. The arcuate surface of the sole also provides for improved face balance of the putter head.

Abstract: A light-emitting golf ball for use in the dark, comprises a spherical body made from a transparent material with an outer casing, and light-emitting means containing chemiluminescent components made from a chemiluminescent material, which components emit light once they have been mixed with one another. The spherical body is provided with a cavity in which there are compartments which are separated from one another by a partition element. One of the chemiluminescent components is accommodated in each compartment. The partition element is of frangible design, in such a manner that an impact load exerted on the outer casing causes the partition element to break, after which the chemiluminescent components can mix with one another.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is novel thermoplastic material and a golf ball utilizing the thermoplastic material. The golf ball (10) preferably comprises a core (12), a cover (16) and optionally a boundary layer (14). At least one of the core (12), cover (16) or boundary layer (14) of the golf ball (10) comprises the thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material comprises a partially to highly neutralized blend of copolymers additionally comprising a fatty acid or fatty acid salt. The golf ball component of the invention has soft feel and resilience that is maintained or improved.

Abstract: A golf ball containing a layer, which comprises nanosheets of exfoliated graphite dispersed in a polymeric matrix, is provided. Intercalated graphite is exfoliated by brief exposure to high heat to expand the thickness of the graphite. The expanded or exfoliated graphite is then mixed with monomers and polymerized in situ to form a polymer with a network of nanosheets of the exfoliated graphite dispersed therein. The exfoliated graphite advantageously retains its nanostructure during the polymerization process.

Abstract: A golf ball with aerodynamic coefficient magnitude and aerodynamic force angle, resulting in improved flight performance, such as increased carry and flight consistency regardless of ball orientation. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball having increased flight distance as defined by a set of aerodynamic requirements at certain spin ratios and Reynolds Numbers, and more particularly the golf ball has a low lift coefficient at a high Reynolds Number.

Abstract: An improved durable golf tee comprises a separate upper portion and a separate lower portion that are axially aligned and enclosed within a flexible collar. The upper portion has an upper end for supporting a golf ball, an upper shank and a lower end having an upper annular flange. The lower portion has a pointed lower end for inserting the tee into the ground, a lower shank and an upper end having a lower annular flange. The flexible collar encloses the lower end of the upper portion and the upper end of the lower portion, forming an integral golf tee, whereby the upper portion and the lower portion are independently flexible within the collar. In a second embodiment, the interior tee portions are molded as a single tee component having the upper portion and the lower portion interconnected by a reduced-diameter (break-away) center portion. The center portion and the respective inner ends of the upper and lower portions are enclosed within the flexible collar.

Abstract: A putter has a center of gravity located rearward from the face and under the stroking pivot point. The polar moment of inertia of the putter is increased by moving the distribution of weight toward the rear of the head away from the contact surface. The sole of the putter has an optimized transverse radius and a raised front edge. The putter has an aiming mark that has a minimum area and a minimum length-to-width ratio and is brightly colored. The putter grip has a flat portion that is oriented to match the player's hand rotational position. The face of the putter has friction and energy transfer characteristics that are selected to influence ball motion if struck with stroking errors. The face loft angle cooperates with the face surface characteristics to influence ball launch angle and rotation.

Abstract: An automated goalkeeper assembly includes a track having a length; a goalie structure; and a base that supports the goalie structure on top of the track. The base has wheels and a motor cooperating with at least one of the wheels for moving the goalie structure along the length of the track. A player, for example, a hockey player or a soccer player, can practice scoring goals against the goalie structure. The goalie structure is preferably inflatable, and the track is preferably constructed from a plurality of track sections. The track preferably has grooves and the base preferably has flanges that cooperate with the grooves to keep the base secured in the track when the player bumps into the goalie structure. All of the components of the goalkeeper assembly can be provided as a kit that can be assembled and disassembled as desired.

Abstract: The instant invention relates to a training device for batting practice. More specifically, the instant invention provides a catch net in combination with an air powered ball return assembly. The ball return assembly delivers a lightweight polymeric ball to a batter in the form of a soft-toss. A hit ball is caught by the net and recycled to the batter. The ball may be hit and recycled back to the batter for a player specified length of time.

Abstract: A combined football/basketball game is provided. In the game, initially an offensive team attempts to score a touchdown against a defensive team pursuant to an American rules football style of game play. When the offensive team scores a touchdown, the mode of game play shifts to a basketball-mode in which the offensive team attempts to make a basketball shot to score additional points against the defensive team. When the ball is controlled by the defensive team during basketball mode, i.e., after a missed shot or a made shot by the offensive team, the defensive team becomes the offensive team and attempts to score a touchdown in football mode. The game continues in this manner until the end of the time allotted for playing the game.

Abstract: A ping pong table with folding protection mechanism is disclosed. At least a pair of folding protection mechanisms is installed underneath the table, one on each side. Each folding protection mechanism is composed of at least one guide roller, one steel cable, and one pneumatic cylinder. The two halves of the ping pong table are folded and supported by an under carriage that is pivotally attached onto the underside of the table. The pneumatic cylinder on each side has one end connected to a cross bar under the table, and the other end connected to a steel cable, which then, through guide rollers, is further connected to the bottom beam of the undercarriage. This folding protection mechanism makes the folding/unfolding of the ping pong table easier and more user-friendly, so even one person is able to handle the table set up without difficulty.

Abstract: A driving sprocket, or chainwheel, for a bicycle crankset having a toothed ring whose ring is divided into a plurality of segments, the segments being borne by a frame that is rotationally movable about a crankset axle, each sprocket segment being movable between a low position and a high position, a system for transferring each segment to transfer said segment from one position to another, and an indexing mechanism to control the system for shifting the segments. Each segment of the driving sprocket is floating mounted with respect to the frame and is guided in its transfer movement along a trajectory having a radial component and a tangent component.

Abstract: A rotation of an input shaft is accelerated and transmitted to a drive shaft of an oil pump through gears. The oil pump is provided with a lubricant hole and part of the lubricant discharged from a discharge side oil chamber is supplied to a first sliding face of a radial bearing through the lubricant hole. By provision of a cutout portion in an oil sump and a first rib, part of the lubricant supplied from the input shaft to a bearing through a plurality of oil passages and the oil sump is supplied to a second sliding face which rotatably supports a thrust washer.

Abstract: A differential drive having an input element (E) and three output elements (A1, A2, A3), which, relative to one another, have a differential effect, and wherein there exists a fixed ratio between the transmittable input torque and each of the output torques directly transmittable to the output elements and wherein one of the output elements (A3), via at least one coupling (K1, K2), can be connected to each of the two other output elements (A1, A2).

Abstract: A multiple stage transmission in planetary design comprises three planetary gear sets (P1, P2, P3), at least six rotatable shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6), the same as at least six shifting elements (03, 04, 13, 16, 45, 56), the drive shaft (1) is permanently connectable with the spider of the first planetary gear set (P1) and via one clutch (16) with the shaft (6) which is connected with the sun gear of the second planetary gear set (P2) and the sun gear of the third planetary gear set (P3) and connectable, via the clutch (56), with the shaft (5), the shaft (5) being connected on one side with the ring gear of the first planetary gear set (P1) and one the other side loosely connectable, via one clutch (45), with the shaft (4) which is permanently connected with the spider of the second planetary gear set (P2) and via one brake (04) attachable to the housing (G).

Abstract: The multi-stage transmission comprises a drive input shaft and a drive output shaft, three single-web planetary gearset assemblies (P1, P2, P3), at least six rotating shafts (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6) and at least five shift elements (03, 04, 13, 16, 45) so that six forward gears and one reverse gear can be engaged, such that the drive input shaft (1) is connected to the solar gearwheel of the first planetary gearset (P1), the annular gearwheel of the first planetary gearset (P1) is in rotationally fixed connection with the housing, the drive output shaft (2) is connected to the annular gearwheel of the second planetary gearset (P2) and to the web of the third planetary gearset (P3), and the shaft (3) is permanently connected to the web of the second planetary gearset (P2) and to the annular gearwheel of the third planetary gearset (P3).

Abstract: An annular member intended to form a part of a bearing unit includes a first portion which radially externally forms a race for receiving at least one row of balls and radially internally is provided with teeth and forms a gear rim. The first portion is provided with a through-hole in the radial direction through the gear rim, which hole has a sufficiently great cross section to allow introduction of the balls radially from inside into the race.

Abstract: A continuously variable transmission is disclosed for use in rotationally or linearly powered machines and vehicles. The single axle transmission provides a simple manual shifting method for the user. An additional embodiment is disclosed which shifts automatically dependent upon the rotational speed of the wheel. Further, the practical commercialization of traction roller transmissions requires improvements in the reliability, ease of shifting, function and simplicity of the transmission. The disclosed transmission may be used in vehicles such as automobiles, motorcycles, and bicycles. The transmission may, for example, be driven by a power transfer mechanism such as a sprocket, gear, pulley or lever, optionally driving a one way clutch attached at one end of the main shaft.

Abstract: In a clutch unit, an engagement of a dog clutch can be restricted until a revolution of an input shaft and the revolution of an output shaft correspond to each other so as to be suitable for the engagement. The engagement can be effected when the revolution of the input shaft and the revolution of the output shaft have corresponded so as to be suitable for the engagement. Accordingly, the revolution of the input shaft and the revolution of the output shaft are speedily synchronized, and engagement shocks of the dog clutch can be accurately suppressed. Hence, it is possible to reliably transmit the torque to be transmitted from the driving source to the wheel side through the reduction mechanism.

Abstract: A switch device that improves reliability in starting an engine is provided. The switch device includes a push button, a magnetic sensor, and a power supply ECU. The push button is pressed by a driver to start the engine. The magnetic sensor detects that the push button has been pressed, in a non-contact manner. The power supply ECU is connected to the magnetic sensor and supplies power to the magnetic sensor to enable the magnetic sensor to detect that the push button has been pressed.

Abstract: A walking sensor is attached to a shoe of the user and cooperates with an input device including a detection section detecting a movement of a user's leg, a signal conversion section converting a detection result of the detection section into a control signal, and an output section outputting the control signal to an external device.

Abstract: A mass produced universal dental appliancee (1) comprises two parts, the parts intended in use to contact the posterior teeth on respective opposite sides of either the upper or lower jaw, each part comprising a composite structure comprising: i) a first layer (2) formed a durable, resilient, elastomeric material having a softening point in the range from 35 to 100° C. and which in use contacts and grips the occlusal biting surfaces of the posterior teeth; and ii) a second layer (3) formed from a durable, non-deformable material having a softening point over 100° C. and which in use provides a bite plate; wherein the second layer of each part is provided with a protrusion (5), formed of durable, non-deformable material having a softening point over 100° C.

Abstract: A starting block is used by a runner in a track event. The starting block contains a rail and a pair of foot pedal assemblies, one assembly connected to the left side of the rail and one assembly connected to the right side of the rail. Each foot pedal assembly contains a pad having a width of about five to twelve inches upon which the runner's foot is placed. Each pad contains markings along its width to enable the runner to place his feet at precisely the desired width.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for an easy to mount and easy to use exercise machine especially helpful to disabled, convalescing and elderly people. Both foot pedals (148) are at their lowest position to start and are dependent on each other. The lever-arms (146) have a long turning radius that minimizes the angle-change of the pedals. The apparatus (30) has a protective cover (32), two foot pedals (148), two lever arms (146), an energy dissipation means (106) with a neutral positioning means for the pedals, a variable exertion-force adjustment means (105), a pedal dependency mechanism (74,94), a transmission (68), an exertion monitoring device (44), handle bars (166), a frame (142), and is easily modified to include an elevator mechanism (120) that raises and lowers the pedals. The unique design keeps most of the moving parts in constant tension eliminating both noise and wear due to direction changes and the need for tight tolerances.

Abstract: An exercise treadmill (20) is described having a number of assembly improvements. In one embodiment, a pivot assembly (50) is provided to allow a treadmill deck (32) to deflect during use. The rear pivot assembly includes a pin (56) transversely mounted on the upper surface of a treadmill frame (22). A pivot block (54) is attached to the deck and includes a lower channel (58) that engages the pin. In another embodiment, an adjustable rear foot assembly (70) is provided having a foot (74) that is rotatable within a mounting block (72). The foot is easily accessed through an upper opening (96) in the treadmill. In yet another embodiment, an air dam (100) is provided between a motor compartment (102) and an adjacent endless belt (28). In still another embodiment, a highly elastic drivebelt (120) is used between a motor assembly (104) and a roller assembly (24) that drives the endless belt (28). Lastly, an embodiment is described in which the treadmill frame (22) is assembled using swaged fasteners (38).

Abstract: A motocross exerciser having a motocross handlebar assembly with a rotatable throttle grip and brake levers under tension which can be utilized to build up hand and wrist forearm strength. The handlebar assembly mounted on a frame which can be rotated about a vertical axis against torque forces to build up the upper arms, shoulder, upper back and lower back.

Abstract: An apparatus that moves a jumping element. The apparatus includes a motorized hub that is attached to a housing. The hub can rotate a jumping element, such as a jump rope, about a horizontal axis and/or a vertical axis. The hub is connected to a motor. The jump rope is coupled to the hub by a crank arm. The crank arm automatically releases from the arm in response to a threshold force. The apparatus includes a deactivation element that deactivates the motor when the jumping element is released from the hub. The jump rope can be coupled to the hub by a strap that limits the movement of the rope when decoupled from the hub. Deactivating the motor terminates rotation of the hub to prevent further movement of the crank arm and rope.

Abstract: An electric drive system (1) operated by muscle power for a vehicle (2) includes a foot pedal (5) and a mechanical generator (6) mechanically connected to the foot pedal. The drive system also includes an electric transmission (4) and an electric control system (20) with a control program (21) of the generator, which is able to generate a counter or load moment (GM). The drive system also includes a starting control system (22) for the generator, by means of which a standstill pedal resistance (TW) and a high starting moment (MA) is produced at the foot pedal. When used in a stationary training apparatus (3), the drive system includes a motor operation control system (23) with a bi-directional converter (31), by means of which the generator is also able to be operated as a motor.

Abstract: A device in particular for use in the field of sport practice and body-building, for a person's muscular exercise. The device enables the development of quadriceps and of the gluteal muscles and comprises a support surface for the feet and elements for applying a force of resistance to the movements of the person's legs to shift from a bent position to an extending position by unfolding the knees. The force applying elements comprise a harness pressing on the upper side of the thighs. The invention is applicable to the manufacture of body-building machine.

Abstract: Various exercise systems include a frame; first and second selectorized dumbbell assemblies; and first and second weight supports mounted on the frame and configured to support respective dumbbell assemblies. On certain embodiments, the weight supports are movably mounted on the frame to facilitate more than one type of activity and/or to accommodate more than mode of exercise. Also, some embodiments include a body support that is movable between a first position which is suitable for exercise and a second position which is suitable for transportation and/or storage. In several such instances, the body support is a bench that is movable relative to the weight supports, between a generally horizontal orientation and a generally vertical orientation.

Abstract: An exercise bench and dumbbell combination includes a base having a bench member for supporting users, a shelf supported on the base, and a dumbbell device supported on the shelf and arranged to be easily obtained or fetched by the users. The shelf is preferably rotatably secured on the base with a pivot rod, to allow the shelf and the dumbbell device to be rotated relative to the base to any suitable positions. The dumbbell device includes a number of weights to be selectively secured or coupled to the handgrip. A cushion may be adjustably attached the base with an arm to suitably support the users.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for obtaining a predetermined linear force, including a first elastic force means (Ee 1, 56) and a force output means (16, 76) in the form of a non-elastic, flexible elongated member. The invention is characterised by a force transformation means (10, 12, 72) arranged between said first elastic force means and the force output means, such that a pulling of the force output means creates a tension in said first elastic force means, and wherein the force transformation means is arranged and designed such that the pulling force required on the force output means decreases with the distance (X2) the force output means is pulled.

Abstract: An exercising device upon which one kneels and can exercise one's thighs and buttocks by pushing one's knees away from each other in a direction substantially parallel with a line through one's hip joints has a pair of longitudinal swing arms that are pivotally mounted at first ends thereof to a respective, upwardly extending, spaced apart pivot axes. The swing arms extend generally laterally outwardly from the respective pivot axes and can pivot about the respective pivot axes from a first position in which the swing arms are substantially parallel with each other to a second position in which distal ends of the swing arms diverge outwardly from each other so that the swing arms form an acute angle with each other.

Abstract: An inflatable structure includes a first side of a first material and a second side of a second material different from the first material. A sidewall connects the first and second sides, and a seam extends around the sidewall joining first and second portions of the sidewall. The first and second portions are secured to one another by thermoforming, and an inflation valve is positioned in the sidewall. The inflatable structure may be formed by heating the first and second sheets of material to a temperature above their glass transition temperature and below their melting point, compressing the first and second sheets of material together in a mold having an opposed pair of cavities such that the valve extends through the seal and is in fluid communication with an interior and exterior of the inflatable structure, and trimming excess material from the periphery of the inflatable structure.

Abstract: A portable exercise apparatus for push-ups and body presses. Longitudinal adjustments accommodate a wide range of physical dimensions of users, and multiple lateral adjustments allow a wide range of lateral adjustments in a compact space. Independently adjustable foot and hand supports allow the user to select a longitudinally or laterally inclined attitude for the user's body during an exercise routine.

Abstract: A mobile apparatus for assisting a person with limited mobility. The apparatus is also for developing a higher level of mobility in a person having low mobility. The person may be assisted by the apparatus when walking. The apparatus includes a seating surface resiliently mounted to provide partial body weight support to the person. A person using the mobility assist may grasp lateral handles disposed on the apparatus while walking or he/she may attempt to mobilize without the use of the lateral handles. Multiple elastic cords positioned to generate a lifting force that varies according to the number of elastic cords employed provide the degree of resilience in the seat. The degree of resilience may be adjusted in accordance with the relative collapse of the lower extremities of the person. As the walking ability of the person progresses, such lifting force may be reduced overtime by reducing the number of elastic cords employed.

Abstract: A device is provided for exercising the muscles of the back, which includes a chair seat and a rod fastened to a feet plate. The feet plate is coupled to a tilting member which is surrounded by a damping member. The damping member can rest on a bottom plate which is fastened by a fastening member. A cloth which surrounds the damping member and is fastened to the feet plate can replace the bottom plate and the fastening member. It is further an advantage that the rod is telescopic. The tilting member can have a circular cross section and a downwardly conical form. The damping member which surrounds the tilting member is of a flexible material and may be fastened to the feet plate by the fastening means member which can assist in dampening the movement of the tilting member.

Abstract: Yoga grip blocks having one or more block sections and a grip section that provide support and comfort in the practice of yoga exercises. The invention includes preferred materials to fabricate yoga grip blocks and describes methods of using yoga grip blocks.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for aligning a person's center of gravity over the base of support using a weighted garment or orthotic are herein provided. These methods and apparatuses are particularly suited to individuals suffering from various balance or neurological disorders. The methods described herein involve the use of body positioning and perturbation techniques. These methods may be manual, computer assisted, or some combination thereof. In some variations, video recording equipment or other electronic equipment is used. The apparatuses of the present invention comprise a variety of weighted garments or orthotics. These garments or orthotics may take on any number of configurations. In some variations, the weighted garment or orthotic is a vest, in other variations, the weighted garment or orthotic is a brassiere, corset, shoulder pad, undergarment, belt, seating device to be used in combination with a wheelchair, tee shirt, body suit, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: An exercise machine and an associated method of exercising that isolates and exercises the anterior deltoid muscles. The exercise machine provides articulating arm elements that support contact surfaces near the biceps of a person who is exercising. To perform the exercise, a person places his/her biceps against the contact surfaces of the articulating arm elements and attempts to elevate their arms forward about their shoulders. The contact surfaces press against the bicep regions of the person's arms and resist the movement. Since the resistance force is applied directly to the upper arm, the exercise does not involve any muscles in the hand, wrist or lower arm. Nearly all of the action needed to perform the exercise is dedicated to the anterior deltoid muscle group. Thus, the anterior deltoid muscle group is isolated for the exercise routine.

Abstract: A contact element designed to hold a foot or hand is capable of being attached to various devices and structures that require a contact element or elements. The contact element includes a contoured, shaped piece of material and is configured to be attached. In the preferred embodiment, the contoured, shaped piece of material is ergonomically designed and has the approximate shape of a portion of a hyperbolic paraboloid with a surface that is convex in one direction and concave in the perpendicular direction, thereby optimizing comfort, support, and contact with a person's foot or hand.

Abstract: A plurality of atomizers or other tools are disposed in a mounting plate (10) in storage places (12), respectively. The mounting plate (10) is rotatable relative a paint robot of a coating installation and has a pneumatic lock or a tool holder (19) that can only be released automatically during storage of the atomizers by an external control device of the mounting plate.

Abstract: There is disclosed an ink roller having a base and an inked sleeve received about and in supported contact with the base, wherein the fit between the inked sleeve and the base is insufficient to prevent relative slippage or rotation between the base and the sleeve, and wherein one or more small ridges on the base engage the sleeve to help prevent such relative rotation.

Abstract: An assembling method that is for a developing roller usable with a developing device. The developing roller includes a developer carrying member in the form of a hollow cylinder, a flange member provided at an end of the developer carrying member, and a magnet provided in the developer carrying member. The method includes an inserting step of inserting the magnet having at least one projection into an inside of the developer carrying member through an opening of the developer carrying member; an abutting step of abutting the at least one projection to an inside surface of the cylinder of the developer carrying member; and an engaging step of engaging the flange member with the opening by penetrating the flange member with a shaft of the magnet projected out of the opening.

Abstract: The blanking station of a diecutting press comprises an upper cradle for a blanking device and gripper bars for conveying the sheets in progress. This upper cradle includes devices for the removable mounting alternately of a blanking device or of a delivery device of non-severed sheets. At least one cam for opening grippers of the said gripper bars, and the cam is mounted in a removable manner.

Abstract: A paper folding machine is provided including a housing having upper and lower fold plates constructed for quick and easy removal of the upper plates from the machine so that repairs may be made. The machine includes an automatically adjustable stacking arm movable to positions corresponding to the settings of the machine for fold type and size.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the washing step in a blood centrifugation cell in which washing solution is introduced into the blood centrifugation cell and the cell contains compacted red cells and supernatant at the beginning of the washing step. The apparatus can comprise various sensors and a computer. The sensors sense and transmit to the computer three inputs. The first input is indicative of the total volume of blood that enters the cell during the filling step and the total amount of washing solution that enters the cell during the washing step. The second input is indicative of the hematocrit value of the blood introduced during the filling step. The third input is indicative of the geometric characteristics of the cell. Based on the inputs, the computer executes an algorithm that produces a first output that is the concentration of the supernatant in the supernatant-washing solution mixture.

Abstract: The decanter centrifuge comprises a screw conveyor having a body (4), which carries a screw comprising one or more flights (7, 7?) and having a nominal transport speed varying along the longitudinal axis. An inlet (6) is provided in the screw conveyor for the material to be separated. The screw conveyor is provided with a baffle (8, 8?) dividing the separation chamber in a substantially cylindrical separation part (17) and an at least partially conical discharge part (18). Immediately upstream of the baffle (8, 8?) a transition part (19) is provided between the separation part (17) and the discharge part (18), the screw conveyor (3) having a bigger nominal transport speed in the transition part (19) than in the separation part (17) immediately before the transition part (19), the change of the nominal transport speed being established by a change (21) of the screw pitch.

Abstract: This invention relates to rotary pumps adapted, but not exclusively, for use as artificial hearts or ventricular assist devices and, in particular, discloses in preferred forms a seal-less shaft-less pump featuring open or closed (shrouded) impeller blades with the edges of the blades used as hydrodynamic thrust bearings and with electromagnetic torque provided by the interaction between magnets embedded in the blades and a rotating current pattern generated in coils fixed relative to the pump housing.