Abstract: In a method of playing a game, a player plays a main game in which a first set of indicia are displayed. The game may be slots, keno, bingo, pull-tabs, a lottery or the like. If the player receives a special symbol or combination of symbols while playing the main game, the outcome of the game is a guaranteed win. A second set of indicia which represent or correspond to that guaranteed win are displayed to the player, whereby the player is made aware of the particular winning result. If the player does not receive the special symbol or combination of symbols, the play of the main game continues and it is determined if the outcome thereof is a winning result.

Abstract: A gaming device including a plurality of reels with a plurality of symbols on each of the reels. At least one and preferably a plurality of the symbols on the primary reels are designated as tracking or back symbols. A tracking symbol is a symbol that, when generated on a reel, causes the gaming device to flag the outcome of the current and all tracking spins in a memory storage device. A back symbol is a symbol that, when generated on a reel, causes the gaming device to retrieve the flagged outcomes of each flagged spin and to redisplay the outcomes in a sequential manner and to provide the awards associated with the outcomes to the player. An additional embodiment of the invention automatically flags all spins of the gaming device for retrieval and display upon the generation of a back or bonus symbol. The gaming device determines if an award is associated with one or more of the symbols generated on the reels and provides any determined award to the player.

Abstract: A method for distributing game tokens, such as playing cards, in a game which includes the distribution of game tokens to n players (P1, P2, . . . Pn), includes the steps of: (a) obtaining from each player Pi a first unit Ai, wherein each Ai is chosen from a finite set of discrete candidate first units; (b) obtaining from each player Pi a second unit Bi, wherein each Bi is chosen from a finite set of discrete candidate second units; (c) deriving a third unit C using a predetermined algorithm where C=f(B1, . . . , Bn); (d) assigning a previously unassigned game token Gi to each player from a predetermined algorithm where Gi=f(Ai, C); and (e) repeating steps (a)-(d) until a predetermined number of game tokens cards are distributed to each player.

Abstract: Since a cursor displayed on a screen of a television monitor moves in conjunction with a motion of an operation article operated by a player, intuitive operation can be possible so that the player can play a game easily. A mermaid displayed on the screen follows the cursor when the player moves the cursor by operating the operation article. In this way, the player operates the mermaid indirectly and avoids obstacle objects and obstacle images.

Abstract: A steering coupling reduces the rotational force felt by a driver should the wheels impact an obstacle. The coupling is particularly suited for vehicles comprising simple, single-unit steering assemblies. The coupling permits a certain amount of slippage between the wheels and the steering wheel without a total loss of steering. The driver may set a threshold torque at which slippage occurs, thereby controlling the “feel” of the steering. The coupling includes a friction disc that permits rotational movement between two housings in the steering assembly.

Abstract: A golf putting training device is provided which comprises a pair of alignment guides extending from the club face to provide a visual means of reference for the golfer during the putting stroke. The training device provides a means for the golfer to improve his accuracy through repeated use and allows muscle memory to remember the correct motion during the golf club swing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a golf ball having a resilient core made of rubber, a cover of one or more layer encasing the core, and at least one intermediate layer disposed between the core and the cover, wherein the cover is made primarily of polyurethane, the intermediate layer is made primarily of ionomer, and the core has a surface hardness which is higher than the material hardnesses of the cover and the intermediate layer. The golf ball is able to limit the distance of travel more than official balls currently in use and, in spite of being a limited-distance golf ball, imparts a relatively soft and good ball feel on impact, in addition to which it has an excellent scuff resistance and, by minimizing the extent of decrease in the distance traveled by the ball when hit with an iron, minimizes the effect on golf play by amateur golfers.

Abstract: A collapsible football tackling block includes a base; a pad support, wherein the pad support is pivotally connected to the base by a hinge; a detachable support between the pad support and the base; a detachable connection between the one end of the detachable support and an intermediate portion of the pad support; and a detachable connection between a second end of the detachable support and an intermediate portion of the base, wherein the pad support is foldable against the base for storage by detaching at least one of the connections of the detachable support.

Abstract: A racket grip training apparatus providing user chosen static positioning of a tennis racket in the hand at angles to the forearm that are determinable and repeatable. The device further provides components to set the face angle of the racket engaged to the device and visual indica to allow for the same positioning in subsequent uses. A planar member is removably engageable to the user's forearm at a first end and has an aperture at an opposite end adapted to encircle the grip of a racket and sized to prevent rotation of the racket axis past predetermined limits relative to the axis of the planar member.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention provides an improved automotive accessory drive system. The automotive accessory drive system including a drive pulley operatively connected to an engine, and a plurality of driven pulleys operatively connected to one of a plurality of driven devices. A flexible drive belt connectively couples the drive pulley and the plurality of driven pulleys, and is operable to transfer drive forces therebetween. The automotive accessory drive system also includes a flexible drive belt tensioner operable to maintain frictional engagement between the flexible drive belt and the drive pulley and at least one of the driven pulleys. The flexible drive belt tensioner has a damper element that preferably includes a damper housing, and a variable viscosity fluid disposed within the damper housing. The variable viscosity fluid is configured to provide a variable dampening rate and is selectively operable to lock the flexible drive belt tensioner.

Abstract: A hybrid transmission for a four-wheel drive hybrid vehicle. A simple planetary gearset as a front planetary gearset and a double-pinion planetary gearset as a rear planetary gearset are mounted in a rear section of a transmission housing. A pair of motor/generators are mounted in a front section of the transmission housing nearer to an engine. A first planet-pinion carrier is connected to a second planet-pinion carrier, and to an engine input shaft via an engine clutch. A tubular first ring gear is connected to a first output shaft for driving a front axle. A second ring gear is connected to a second output shaft for driving a rear axle. The second output shaft extends through a bore of the first output shaft. A first sun gear is connected to the first motor/generator. A second sun gear is connected to the second motor/generator.

Abstract: A hybrid transmission connected with a prime power source, including an input member for receiving power input from the prime power source, a two degree-of-freedom gear mechanism having a first axis and including at least four rotating members that are associated to rotate about the first axis, a first motor/generator having a second axis aligned with the first axis of the two degree-of-freedom gear mechanism, and a second motor/generator having a third axis offset from and parallel to the first axis. The first motor/generator is drivingly connected with the first rotating member of the two degree-of-freedom gear mechanism. The second motor/generator is drivingly connected with the second rotating member of the two degree-of-freedom gear mechanism.

Abstract: A steering system includes a differential transmission having an input shaft and an output shaft, a rotary input device attached to the input shaft, a movable steering effector in operable communication with the output shaft, an angular-to-linear converter which converts a rotative motion of the output shaft to a linear motion that acts to move the steering effector. The motion of the steering effector enables path alteration of a vehicle. The steering system also includes an electromotive actuator in operable communication with the differential transmission. An activated electromotive actuator provides an active alteration of a speed change between a speed of the input shaft and a speed of the output shaft and a deactivated electromotive actuator provides a default speed change between the speed of the input shaft and the speed of the output shaft.

Abstract: A powertrain has an electrically variable hybrid transmission having an electro-hydraulic control system, plurality of electrical power units, and a plurality of torque transmitting mechanisms selectively engageable by the electro-hydraulic control system to provide four forward speed ranges, a neutral condition, an electric low and high speed mode, an electrically variable low and high speed mode, and a hill hold mode. The electro-hydraulic control system permits operation in the electrically variable low mode of operation if the electrical power is interrupted when the powertrain is operating in the first forward range, electric low speed mode, electrically variable low speed mode, and hill hold mode. Additionally, the system permits operation in the electrically variable high speed mode of operation if the electrical power is interrupted when the powertrain is operating in the second through fourth forward range, electric high speed mode, and electrically variable high speed mode.

Abstract: An oil feeding device which has an oil reserving portion 50 and first oil requiring portions 8, 62, 63, 67, 68, 72 and 76 provided in a moving object, and a first oil discharging portion 58 for feeding an oil reserved in the oil reserving portion 50 to the first oil requiring portions comprises: a regulating member 64 for regulating a relative movement of the oil discharged from the first oil discharging portion 58 and the first oil requiring portions in a moving direction of the moving object; a second oil discharging portion 57 for feeding the oil reserved in the oil reserving portion 50 to the first oil requiring portions. A discharging pressures of the oil at the first oil discharging portion 57 and the second oil discharging portion 58 are changed in accordance with the amount of the oil in the oil reserving portion 50. Therefore, the reduction of the amount of oil to be fed to the first oil requiring portions can be suppressed even when the speed of the moving object changes.

Abstract: A variable speed transmission having a plurality of tilting balls and opposing input and output discs is illustrated and described that provides an infinite number of speed combinations over its transmission ratio range. The use of a planetary gear set allows minimum speeds to be in reverse and the unique geometry of the transmission allows all of the power paths to be coaxial, thereby reducing overall size and complexity of the transmission in comparison to transmissions achieving similar transmission ratio ranges.

Abstract: A control device for a vehicular drive system including a differential mechanism operable to distribute an output of an engine to a first electric motor and a power transmitting member, and a second electric motor disposed in a power transmitting path between the power transmitting member and a drive wheel of a vehicle. The control device includes a differential-state switching device operable to place the differential mechanism selectively in one of a differential state and a non-differential state, and a switching control device operable to control the differential-state switching device, so as to place the differential mechanism in the differential state when the vehicle is in a motor-drive mode in which at least one of the first and second electric motors is used as a drive power source to drive the vehicle.

Abstract: A method is for controlling a rate of flow of cooling oil to a friction launch clutch and electric motor in a hybrid electric vehicle powertrain. The rate of flow is determined by changes in clutch temperature and motor temperature. Cooling oil flow in excess of the flow required to maintain a desired temperature is avoided.

Abstract: A lower limb function training device which the patient themselves can use safely with no sense of fear, which is used to prevent or improve a drop foot contracture or to expand the excursion of a joint while preventing the patient from using it over an appropriate amount of exercise to the utmost, which allows the patient to select the type of exercise, and which enables measurement of state of the body. The device is provided with a contact sensor, a foot rest on which the feet of the patient rest and selectively moves back and forth or rocks vertically, a movement counter for counting the back-and-forth movements or vertical rocking of the foot rest, and a brake device for braking the back-and-forth movement or vertical rocking of the foot rest when the count reaches a preset value.

Abstract: An exercise machine is disclosed. Exemplary embodiments include an exercise machine with a safety brake mechanism to provide a braking force to the exercise machine to stop the exercise machine, an exercise machine with a variable resistance mechanism to variably adjust and provide resistance to the exercise machine, and an exercise machine with both mechanisms.

Abstract: An exercise arm assembly has a main arm with a central region having a first pivot connection for connection to a frame of an exercise machine to allow pivoting of the main arm about a primary pivot axis, a first swing arm pivoted to one end of the main arm for pivoting about a first swing arm pivot axis, and a second swing arm pivoted to the opposite end of the main arm for pivoting about a second swing arm pivot axis. Each swing arm has at least one handle spaced from the respective swing arm pivot axis for gripping by a user when performing exercises. The swing arm pivot axes are inclined inwardly towards one another to intersect at a location spaced below the first pivot axis, such that the swing arms automatically swing outwardly into an outward rest position when released.

Abstract: An exercise resistance cable apparatus for engagement with a pulley assembly of a support structure and with a cable locking pin of an anchor assembly of the support structure. The exercise resistance cable apparatus includes an elastic exercise resistance cable. A cable anchor ring is securely connected to a first end of the elastic exercise resistance cable. A handgrip is connected to a second end of the elastic exercise resistance cable. During use the elastic exercise resistance cable is directed through an activity bay of the pulley assembly and ultimately attached, via the cable anchor ring, to the cable locking pin of the anchor assembly of the support structure. The exercise resistance cable apparatus is particularly adapted to be used with an exercise chair having a frame with pulley assemblies defining a plurality of activity bays positioned at desired locations thereon.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided, either in assembled or kit form, particularly for emulating and improving a golf swing. The apparatus includes an elongate bar having hand grips each disposed at opposite ends thereon, and a neck support disposed at a substantially central portion of the bar. The bar includes at least one forearm plate permanently or removably attached on an underside near either end of the bar. At least one resistance band is provided, although a plurality is preferably provided in the kit form, for removable attachment of the forearm plate with a foot brace. Such removable attachment advantageously facilitates changing of resistance bands to different levels of resistance/length, switching of the foot brace, as well as, e.g., in an embodiment including two forearm plates, switching between attachment of the resistance band to either forearm plate. Accordingly, a user may work both the right or left side muscle groups.

Abstract: A portable exercise device includes a main tube having an adjustable length. The main tube includes a central tube and an outboard tube connected to opposite ends of the central tube. First and second door jamb gripping devices adapted to engage a door stop of a door jamb are secured to respective outermost ends of the outboard tubes. A handle is secured to each outboard tube and a pulley is mounted within a hollow interior of each outboard tube. A first resistance band has a first end engaged to a third handle, a second end engaged to a fourth handle, and a medial part positioned in a hollow interior of the main tube that engages the first and second pulleys.

Abstract: A training device is disclosed, or a device for training, sport, gymnastics and for therapy, characterized by an arched planar element (1), having a largely rectangular outline. The arching or curvature encloses an angle of at least 30°, said angle generally being an angle of ca. 30-180°, preferably ca. 60-100°. The arched planar element can have a nearly form stable embodiment, made from wood, a polymeric material, such as a reinforced polymer or light metal. It is also possible to give the element a weakly elastic embodiment, using a correspondingly weakly elastic material such as wood, or a correspondingly weakly elastic polymer.

Abstract: An exercise bench has a main support frame with a floor engaging member at one end and a folding front leg assembly at the other end which can be locked in a deployed position or a folded position. A user engaging foot stabilizer is pivotally associated with the front leg, and a thigh support is adjustably mounted on the front leg assembly or main support frame for engaging the thighs of a user when performing exercises while supported on the bench. The thigh support may be separate from or form part of a seat pad mounted on the frame. The bench is adjustable between positions for performing abdominal crunch or lower back exercises and is adjustable in both positions to allow different users to perform exercises effectively.

Abstract: A weight bench system includes an adjustable headrest assembly. The adjustable headrest assembly is movable from a position flat with a backrest assembly to a multitude of articulated positions. To reset the headrest assembly back to the flat position, the headrest assembly is articulated to a fully articulated position, then returned to the flat position.

Abstract: A compact functional training bench able to support a user performing upper and lower body exercises is comprised of a base, a seat, a main and adjustable support column, and a pivoting support plate with angular adjustments. The bench has multiple vertical height adjustments independent of the seats' incline adjustments. All seat angles support a user's upper torso, lower torso or entire body. The present design is light weight, simple and practical. The use of ergonomics was a basis for the present invention. Many types of people are able to use the compact functional training bench regardless of their, height, size or exercise level.

Abstract: Exercise devices which enable exercise through a substantially complete range of motion of a body part. The devices include a body contact member located adjacent a frame portion. A plurality of tension members extend between the frame portion and the body contact member to supply tension to yieldably resist motion of the body contact member relative to the frame portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise tool. More particularly, it relates to an exercise tool specifically devised as a toe stretcher to align, separate, and stretch toes. The toe stretcher comprises a frame with a separator for separating a plurality of toes. The frame further includes holes or indentations for placement of the toes. Additionally, the frame is flexible, allowing a user to easily manipulate the toe stretcher and place it on the user's toes, effectively separating and stretching toes. Furthermore, the toe stretcher may be attached with a footwear, allowing a user to not only stretch toes, but to also use the toe stretcher as a footwear.

Abstract: The invention provides a tool magazine device for a vertical machining center having a protective cover for a shank. A tool magazine device 100 disposed in a vertical machining center comprises a chain 120 moved between sprocket wheels 130 and 140, and the chain 120 is equipped with tool holders 200. Each tool holder 200 has a tool holder member 220 for holding the shank portion of the tool 1 and a shank pod 230 for covering the shank portion. The automatic tool change preparation device 300 lifts the shank pod 230 by gripping a knob 250 of a shaft 240 connected to the shank pod 230, so as to enable an automatic tool change arm to change the tool 1.

Abstract: The rotating cylinder for processing a web material comprises an essentially rigid cylindrical core (13), on which is fitted an interchangeable sleeve (45) of elastically expandable material whose rigidity is less than that of the material of the core; the sleeve is axially and angularly fixable to the core and is provided on its outer surface with a relief pattern. For each end of the 3 cylinder, there is provided at least one corresponding mechanical locking member which can be fixed to the corresponding end of the core of the cylinder and which interacts with the corresponding end of the interchangeable sleeve to lock the interchangeable sleeve angularly with respect to the core of the cylinder.

Abstract: The flexible container relating to the present invention comprises a cylindrical member (10) made from flexible film, a bottom plate member (12) which is harder than the flexible film, fitted into the inner side of a first end section of the cylindrical member (10) and fused-bonding airtightly; and a ring member (11) which is harder than the flexible film, fitted into the inner side of a second end section of said cylindrical member (10) and fused-bonding airtightly. According to this flexible container (2), it is possible greatly to reduce the volume of the container after discharging the highly viscous material from the flexible container, and it is possible to achieve small and inexpensive moulds having excellent productivity as moulding equipment for forming the bottom plate member (12) and the ring member (11), thereby achieving benefits in that the price of the equipment can be reduced significantly.

Abstract: A machine for forming tubular film lengths from a linear portion of film comprises: a unit (1) for feeding linear film portions (2); at least one forming roller (3) that revolves about an axis (7) transversal to the direction of film feed; means (14) for applying the film portion (2) to the surface of the forming roller (3) as it revolves, at least until opposite edges (4, 5) of the film portion (2) overlap; and means (11) for joining the overlapping edges (4, 5) to each other to form a tubular film length (6).

Abstract: A reclosable package comprises a pre-made bag with a post-applied shrouded slider-zipper assembly installed in the mouth of the bag. The bag material comprises a layer made of paper and a layer of thermoplastic material laminated to the paper layer. The shrouded slider-zipper assembly comprises a pair of flanged zipper parts made of thermoplastic material, a slider mounted to the zipper, and a folded web of thermoplastic film material joined to the layer of thermoplastic material of the bag. The flanges of the zipper parts are respectively joined to opposing sides of the folded web. The package is made by an automated process whereby an individual shrouded slider-zipper assembly is cut from a continuous chain of assemblies, inserted into the open mouth of a pre-made bag and tack sealed in place. The assembly is then fully sealed to the bag by a drag sealer.

Abstract: A bag having a tamper evident closure and methods of forming the same are provided. The bag has a tube body with a front wall and a back wall positioned between a first end and a second end. A back flap extension member connects to and extends outwardly from the second end of the back wall. A primer material is positioned on the back flap extension member and an adhesive material is placed on the back flap extension member that folds over to overlie and contact the primer material. The back flap extension member adheres to the front flap extension member and portions of the front wall to close the second end. When the back flap extension member liftingly separates from the front wall, at least one of the back flap extension member and the front wall tears indicating evidence of tampering.

Abstract: End-to-end joining of sleeves. A first glue strand is applied to the end joint surface of one of the sleeves, the first glue strand having properties that cause an immediate fixing of the end joint surfaces of the sleeves. A second glue strand is applied to the end joint surface of one of the sleeves, the second glue strand having properties that causing wetting of the sleeve material in the joint surface and its immediate vicinity. The end joint surface of a first one of the sleeves is positioned against the end joint surface of a second one of the sleeves so that the first glue strand causes an immediate fixing of the end joint surfaces, and the second glue strand is allowed to set. The apparatus includes alignment devices for positioning the sleeves adjacent glue nozzles and for positioning the sleeves in end-to-end contact.

Abstract: A dunnage removal apparatus is situated adjacent a load conveyor and more particularly at a transfer device that moves a unitized load from the load conveyor to a pre-feeder. The dunnage removal apparatus includes a guide chute that funnels a loose flap of the dunnage sheet toward a sheet stripper mechanism. The mechanism includes a motor driven drive roller and a pair of pinch rollers that pinch the flap and pull the dunnage sheet from beneath the load. The pinch rollers are supported for movement relative to the drive roller to accept dunnage sheet(s) of variable thicknesses. A backstop plate is provided that moves with the pinch rollers. The load bears against the backstop plate as the dunnage sheet(s) is removed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for automatically folding a sheet of media, for example, a photographic paper about a fold line, such that a album page is formed. The photosensitive media has images only on one side. A heat activated adhesive sheet is provided between the sides of the photographic paper during folding. The adhesive sheet when exposed to heated and pressure rollers, will cause the sides of the photographic media to be secured to form a single album page.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for mechanically fastening a partially assembled absorbent undergarment during manufacture, a longitudinal folding device is carried by a transport device and moveable between an open configuration in which it receives a partially assembled undergarment, and a closed configuration in which the undergarment is folded longitudinally by the folding device. A first transverse folding device folds a first fastening portion of the undergarment relative to the folding device and generally toward a second fastening portion, and a second transverse folding device carried by the transport device folds the second fastening portion relative to the folding device and generally toward the first fastening portion to facilitate engagement therebetween. A separate retention member is carried by the transport device and draws at least one of the first and second fastening portions against the retention member while the garment is moved by the transport device.

Abstract: A centrifugal device comprising: a rotor having a rotor shaft having a longitudinal rotor axis; a holder having an access end, and a holder axis; a location mechanism for locating the holder within the centrifugal device, such that the holder is rotatable about the rotor axis, with the holder axis forming a non-zero angle with the rotor shaft axis, the location mechanism accurately locating the access end of the holder within the centrifugal device, wherein the location mechanism comprises a holding pin having an axis that is substantially perpendicular to the rotor axis, the holding pin being rotatable about the rotor axis.

Abstract: Water soluble hybrid phthalocyanine derivatives useful in competitive and noncompetitive assays immunoassays, nucleic acid and assays are disclosed and claimed having (1) at least one donor subunit with a desired excitation peak, and (2) at least one acceptor subunit with a desired emission peak, wherein said derivative(s) is/are capable of intramolecular energy transfer from said donor subunit to said acceptor subunit. Such derivatives also may contain an electron transfer subunit. Axial ligands may be covalently bound to the metals contained in the water soluble hybrid phthalocyanine derivatives. Ligands, ligand analogues, polypeptides, proteins and nucleic acids can be linked to the axial ligands of the dyes to form dye conjugates useful in immunoassays and nucleic acid assays.

Abstract: A radioactive member for use in brachytherapy comprising a hollow elongate bioabsorbable suture member with radioactive seeds and spacer members without different coloration and diameter from the radioactive seeds alternately disposed therein, and methods for the manufacture and the use thereof. The radioactive members may be used in the treatment of, for example, prostate cancer.

Abstract: Breast cancer patients are treated intraoperatively with radiation shortly after excision of a tumor. Pathology of the tissue is determined with a nearly instantaneous method, further excision is performed if needed, and the patient, still anesthetized and preferably unmoved, is then treated with radiation therapy. In a preferred embodiment an applicator is inserted into the excision cavity, the cavity is three-dimensionally mapped using radiation sources and a sensor, a radiation treatment plan is developed using a radiation prescription and the determined shape and location of the cavity, and the treatment plan is executed, all while the patient remains under anesthesia.

Abstract: Implantable microphone devices that may be utilized in hearing systems are provided. An implantable microphone device allows the implantable microphone's frequency response and sensitivity to be selected. A microphone device with an increased membrane flexibility and a decreased acoustic compliance of the sealed cavity. Vibrations of a membrane are transmitted through a primary air cavity and through an aperture of a microphone. Keeping a flexible membrane and decreasing the sealed air cavity compliance are the preferred way to simultaneously increase overall sensitivity of the device, and move the resonance peak to higher frequencies.

Abstract: The present provides novel systems and methods to facilitate embryo transfer, to maximize implantation rates and to improve pregnancy rates resulting from In Vitro fertilization.

Abstract: A bioprosthetic valve graft comprises a valve frame and valve flaps, the latter acting to open or close a valve aperture to directionally control fluid flow through the bioprosthesis. The bioprosthetic valve graft comprises method for suturelessly attaching a biomaterial suturelessly bonded to the A method for securing a biomaterial to a valve frame includes positioning a flexible valve frame defining an open area on a first major surface of a biomaterial sheet having a peripheral edge, wherein positioning serves to approximate the valve frame and the peripheral edge of the biomaterial sheet to form an at least first bonding locus; and suturelessly bonding the biomaterial to the valve frame at the at least first bonding locus. The method avoids the disadvantages associated with conventional sutures and substantially reduces medical complications in implantations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical obturator which includes a sleeve having a longitudinal bore between a proximal end and a distal end. The longitudinal bore of the sleeve is configured to receive at least a portion of an endoscope or like image transferring system. An image passing member, such as an optical window is positioned at the distal end of the sleeve and is provided to permit optical images to pass into the longitudinal bore of the sleeve and to permit illumination light to pass to the surgical site. An automatically retracting blade is positioned distal to the image passing member to facilitate penetration of body tissue.

Abstract: An endoscope comprises an inserting unit main body, and a head unit that is freely detachably attached to the distal end of the inserting unit main body and that includes an image pickup device which picks up an image of an object and a light emitting element which irradiates illumination light to the object. A holding member holds the head unit such that distal extension of the holding member angles the head unit in a radial direction orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the distal end of the inserting unit main body.

Abstract: An endoscopic retractor includes a tube having a proximal end and a distal end with a push rod extending therethrough. The proximal ends of the push rod is provided with a threaded portion. A rotatable handle is coupled to the proximal end of the tube and threadably engages the threaded portion of the push rod such that rotation of the handle causes a translation of the push rod. The distal end of the tube is provided with a clevis through which the distal end of the push rod extends. A multi-segment canopy is coupled to the clevis and the push rod via an articulate linkage. Translation of the push rod in the distal direction causes the canopy to be moved from a starting substantially cylindrical configuration with its axis nearly collinear with the axis of the tube to an opened quasi-planar configuration. Further translation of the push rod in the distal direction causes the quasi-planar canopy to be rotated in the clevis to an angle of approximately ninety degrees relative to the axis of the tube.