Abstract: A pivoting swing maintains a support member that is rotatably attached to pivot assembly allows the support member to be rotated in any desired position. The pivot assembly includes a lock assembly that allows the position of the support member to be retained once a desired position has been found. Flexible suspension members attach the support member to the pivot assembly, thereby allowing the support member to swing back and forth once the support member has been rotated to a desired position.

Abstract: A golf club sleeve for use with various golf club structures is presented. The golf club sleeve may have an airfoil shaped cross section and may extend over at least a portion of the shaft of the golf club to reduce drag associated with the shaft during a golf swing, thereby increasing swing speed. The golf club sleeve may be rotatable relative to the shaft of the golf club to orient itself during a swing in order to improve air flow over the sleeve.

Abstract: A device for picking up balls or golf balls (10) is disposed in the region of the grip (11) of a club (12). It includes several holding elements, which are displaceable under the effect of at least one resilient element from a rest position on the grip into an actuatable position in which they are capable of picking up the golf ball. By the holding element being at least two gripping arms (13, 14), which are fitted into each other in the rest position under the effect of at least one resilient element, a compact device for picking up that is simple to operate is created.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to multi-layer golf balls having at least three core layers, at least one cover layer, and at least one intermediate layer between the core and the cover layer that acts as a vapor barrier. Advantageously, the at least three core layers have a hardness gradient that either increases or decreases toward the at least one intermediate vapor barrier layer.

Abstract: A multi-piece solid golf ball comprises a core having a 5 structure consisting of at least two layers and a cover on the core consisting of outer and inner cover layers. The outer cover layer has a Shore D hardness of 40-60 degrees. The inner cover layer has a Shore D hardness of up to 53 degrees and lower than that of the outer cover layer. The ball's carry is comparable to conventional solid golf balls and spin receptivity is approximate to wound golf balls while the ball is durable and offers pleasant feel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a golf ball composed of a core and a cover having an outside surface on which are formed a plurality of dimples. Letting BV and CV be the initial velocity (m/s) of, respectively, the ball and the core as measured by a method using an initial velocity measuring apparatus of the same type as a USGA drum rotation-type initial velocity instrument and letting BE and CE be the deflection (mm) of, respectively, the ball and the core when compressed under a final load of 1,275 N (130 kgf) from an initial load of 98 N (10 kgf), the ball initial velocity BV is from 70.0 to 76.0 m/s and the ball satisfies the formula ?1.0?(BV/BE)?(CV/CE)?3.0. The golf ball of the invention has a flight distance that can be reduced compared with official golf balls currently in use, yet has the same good feel on impact and excellent controllability, scuff resistance and durability to repeated impact as a game ball.

Abstract: A golf tee is provided for supporting a golf ball. The golf tee is adapted to sit on top of the ground and comprises a support rim or at least three support points for supporting a golf ball and an open body having a lower end suitable for placement on the ground and an upper end suitable for connection to the support rim. An optional neck may be used connecting the upper end of the open body to the support rim. The open body comprises a plurality of support columns and optionally one or more support rings connecting the support columns. The support columns are separated by holes thereby increasing the surface area of the golf tee. The open body and holes are adapted to receive grass and can allow for substantial level placement of the tee relative to the ground even when the grass is dense or longer. The support columns and holes result in a golf tee having a high drag and relatively low weight thereby providing a golf tee which travels a relatively short distance when struck by a swinging golf club.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are various inventive methods and apparatus related to an apparatus and method for teaching bunting techniques to baseball or softball players. A bunting mat may be provided that contains a plurality of lines that aide a player in better understanding bunting techniques, including aiding a player with appropriately positioning their feet for a bunt.

Abstract: A device for throwing and swinging sports comprises a semi-transparent bottle into which varying amounts of a media may be added. One embodiment of that bottle is generally concave in cross-section for better gripping and includes markings on at least one side for showing different filling levels. A gripping element extends from a middle of the bottle sidewall. One such element is a baseball, real or simulated. Other embodiments include a softball, a football-sized element and/or a racket handle. In order to assist the user with timed workouts, an optional cap may include a built-in clock for signaling when to switch from one exercise to another. Methods for exercising with this device are also disclosed.

Abstract: A target ball game kit is provided that is easily carried and readily assembled to facilitate play in recreational areas such as parks or beaches. The kit includes a container housing a plurality of paddles, a plurality of balls having varying weights, and at least one target assembly. The target assembly is appointed to be set-up on a ground surface and secured thereto by way of securing means. Concentric rings having assigned point values are constructed within the target assembly. The target assembly preferably is constructed of a continuous rope or cord-like member. The kit can be readily and accurately adjusted for singles to doubles play by including at least two target assemblies therein. Glow in the dark properties may be provided to the target assembly, paddles, and/or balls for play in dimly lit or foggy conditions.

Abstract: A game includes a pair of rackets for propelling and catching a projectile. Each racket includes a rim for supporting a net between its inner periphery and one of a hook and a loop on an outer periphery. The projectile includes a generally circular member and an elastic band. The band carries the other of the hook and loop which cooperates with the racket for propelling the projectile. The racket may be positioned to catch the propelled projectile in the net.

Abstract: A broadhead comprising a ferrule configured to be mounted on an arrow shaft, and at least two cutting blades, configured to be mounted on the ferrule, each having a penetration limiter formed therein. The at least two cutting blades each have a cutting edge and a cutting tip, and wherein the penetration limiter comprises a cut-out formed in the cutting edge to limit penetration of the broadhead upon impact.

Abstract: A blade-opening arrowhead or broadhead that has one or more blades each pivotally or otherwise movably mounted with respect to a body or a ferrule. Each blade is moveable between a closed position and an open position, for example to increase a cutting diameter of the arrowhead. An actuator or an activation arm can be used to operate a cam surface. The blade can move as a follower element in response to movement of the cam surface. In the open position, the cam surface can contact the blade.

Abstract: A motorcycle including a power transmission device including a continuously variable transmission having a belt wound around a drive pulley and around a driven pulley and a hydraulically-operated clutch provided on at least one of a drive pulley shaft and a driven pulley shaft and an internal combustion engine wherein a supply of working oil to the clutch and of lubricating oil to a continuously variable transmission is enabled while avoiding a complication of an oil passage configuration and an increase in the diameter of the pulley shaft. A clutch control oil passage directs working oil to a clutch and a lubricating oil passage directs lubricating oil to a continuously variable transmission are provided in the particular pulley shaft on which the clutch is provided, so as to be coaxial with each other and be axially isolated from each other.

Abstract: In one embodiment, an oil pressure control apparatus includes a belt-driven continuously variable transmission, a lockup clutch provided in a torque converter, a primary regulator valve that regulates a line oil pressure that becomes a source pressure of oil pressure of various parts, and a lockup control valve that performs switching when controlling engagement/release of the lockup clutch. Control of the primary regulator valve and control of the lockup control valve are performed with a single linear solenoid valve. In this case, control of the primary regulator valve and control of the lockup control valve are performed in different ranges.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a continuously variable transmission using a belt which comprises: a driving portion including a main cylinder having a space in which oil can be filled and operating as a pulley, a plurality of subsidiary cylinders disposed at a circumferential surface of the main cylinder and expanding in the radial direction due to the centrifugal force produced by the rotation of the driving shaft, the subsidiary cylinders each being formed with belt grooves at the distal end for seating belts thereon; a driven portion having a structure identical to that of the driving portion, and disposed at a position spaced apart from the driving portion by a predetermined distance; belts seated on the belt grooves formed at the subsidiary cylinders of the driving portion and the belt grooves formed at the subsidiary cylinders of the driven portion, for transmitting the power of the driving portion to the driven portion.

Abstract: A front derailleur including a chain guide for engagement and disengagement of a bicycle chain with multiple chain rings of a crankset is disclosed. The chain guide may be positioned by linear guide rods. The chain guide may have an inner lifting surface and an outer pulling surface for engaging diametrically opposed corners of a chain when viewed in cross-section.

Abstract: In an engine timing chain guide composed of a synthetic resin shoe supported on a frame by L-shaped and strip-shaped engagement members integrally molded as unitary parts of the shoe, the L-shaped members are formed with oblique tongues that resiliently engage side edges of the frame member, and the strip-shaped engagement members include surfaces that extend obliquely toward, and resiliently engage, a side edge of the frame member. Laterally extending legs of the L-shaped members are also formed with bulged portions, and the frame member is sandwiched between the bulged portions and a back side of the shoe.

Abstract: A tensioner comprising a base, an arm pivotally engaged with the base, a pulley journalled to the arm, a torsion spring engaged between the arm and the base, the base comprising a cantilever leaf spring, a first friction disk operationally disposed between the cantilever leaf spring and the arm, the cantilever leaf spring biasing the first friction disk into frictional contact with the arm, the first friction disk rotationally fixed with respect to the base, a second friction disk rotationally fixed with respect to the base, a separator member disposed between the first friction disk and the second friction disk, the first friction disk and the second friction disk each having a wet coefficient of friction of approximately 0.12, and the separator member rotationally fixed with respect to the arm.

Abstract: A straddle type all terrain vehicle is provided with a chain guide for covering an outer peripheral edge of at least an engaged portion of a driven sprocket with a drive chain from outside in a radial direction inside a chain cover. A rear axle housing is formed with upper and lower flange portions extending upward and downward at opposite end portions in the vehicle width direction of the rear axle housing. The rear axle housing is coupled to a rear end portion of the rear swing arm for swinging forward and rearward about mounted portions of the upper flange portion. The chain cover is mounted on the swing arm side and the chain guide is mounted on the rear axle housing side, respectively.

Abstract: A belt type non-stage transmission is constituted so that a V belt obtained by connecting a plurality of elements using a belt is wound around a pair of pulleys which have a groove with V-shaped cross section and which groove width can be changed. A diffusion layer where at least one of Zn and Sn diffuses on a surface layer of a metallic material of the pulleys and the elements is provided to at least one of contacting surfaces between the pulleys and the elements. The diffusion layer contains S and P. As a result, high frictional coefficient and wear resistance can be maintained for a long time, so that the device can cope with heightening of output.

Abstract: A power unit enabling reduction of the size and manufacturing costs thereof and making unnecessary complicated control of power from a prime mover, for changing the speed of power from the prime mover. A first sun gear, a first carrier and a first ring gear of a first planetary gear unit are mechanically connected to drive wheels, the engine, and a pump impeller of a torque converter, respectively. A second sun gear, a second carrier and a second ring gear of a second planetary gear unit are mechanically connected to the engine, the drive wheels, and a turbine runner of the torque converter, respectively. A rotating machine is mechanically connected to one of the first and second ring gears, and the operation of the rotating machine is controlled by a PDU and an ECU. A battery is electrically connected to the rotating machine.

Abstract: In a condition of a vehicle which remains stationary or is about to stop and of a forward second speed having a clutch and a brake engaged, an N range is changed from a D range based on a shift lever operation and a forward range pressure is discharged from a manual shift valve. At this time, an orifice and a check ball are used to delay discharge of oil paths which communicate with a linear solenoid valve relative to discharge of an oil path a1 which communicates with a linear solenoid valve. Specifically, release of the brake is delayed relative to release of the clutch, so that a shift by way of a forward first speed through engagement of a one-way clutch can be prevented.

Abstract: A vehicle driveline having an axle assembly with an input pinion, which is configured to receive a rotary input, a input ring gear, which is meshingly engaged with the input pinion, a first output member, a second output member and a power distribution system. The first output member is configured to drive a first vehicle wheel on a first side of a vehicle. The second output member is configured to drive a second vehicle wheel on a second side of the vehicle opposite the first side. The power distribution system is driven by the input ring gear and distributes drive torque between the first and second output members. The power distribution system includes a first continuously variable transmission. A method for operating a vehicle driveline is also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed is a differential transmission unit featuring active controlling of the moment distribution. Said differential transmission unit comprises a differential transmission (4) with two output shafts (6, 7), the cage (5) of said differential transmission (4) forming the input member, and one respective controlled frictional clutch (22, 26) that is associated with an output shaft. The primary part (22) of the clutch is drivingly connected to the input member (5) while the secondary part (26) of the clutch is drivingly connected to the associated output shaft (6, 7), at least one of the driving connections being provided with an increased or reduced transmission ratio.

Abstract: A differential having four pinions supported for rotation on cross pins within a differential case. The differential employs a retainer system for securing the cross pins relative to the differential case. The retainer system can include a retainer, such as a clip or a pair of roll pins, that can secure at least one of the cross pins in place.

Abstract: A power transmitting apparatus for performing switching between 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive modes and locking and unlocking of a differential by an operational shaft can comprise a reversible motor, a driving shaft rotationally driven by the motor and adapted to be engaged by the operational shaft for transmitting a rotational force therebetween, a sub case for containing the motor and the driving shaft therein and mounted on the main case, an opening formed in the sub case and having a size permitting the operational shaft to be inserted and an end face of the driving shaft for engaging an end face of the operational shaft to be exposed, and a first sealing arranged on the inner circumferential surface of the opening at a position away from the driving shaft for sealing off the inside of the sub case with forming a seal between the inner circumferential surface of the opening and the outer circumferential surface of the operational shaft when the operational shaft is engaged with the driving shaft.

Abstract: An automatic transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.

Abstract: A triple-axle-drive multistage transmission for heavy machinery includes an input part and a speed changing part. The input part includes a clutch part including a forward clutch part and a reverse clutch part to control transmission of the power received from a bevel gear unit, an input drive shaft coupled to the forward clutch part to mediate forward power transmission, a forward drive gear provided on a first end of the input drive shaft, and a reverse drive gear coupled to the reverse clutch part. The speed changing part includes a speed change drive shaft to mediate a change of speed of the power input from the input part, a planetary gear unit coupled to a first end of the speed changed drive shaft, and a reverse driven gear provided on a second end of the speed change drive shaft and engaging with the reverse drive gear.

Abstract: A continuously variable ratio device (“variator”) is disclosed in which a pair of rotary races (252, 254) is mounted for rotation about a common variator axis (218). Drive is transferred from one race to the other through at least one roller (200) running upon them. The drive ratio is variable by virtue of precession of the roller about a precession axis (228). Precession results in a change in angle between the roller axis and the variator axis and a corresponding change in drive ratio. In accordance with the invention, the roller (200) is coupled to a carrier (214) in a manner which permits it to precess relative to the carrier (214). The carrier itself is rotatable about a carrier axis (226) which is non-parallel to the precession axis. Rotation of the carrier (214) about the carrier axis serves to change the orientation of the precession axis (228) and is accompanied by a change in variator drive ratio.

Abstract: A control device for an automatic transmission having a torque converter with a lock-up clutch provided between an engine and the automatic transmission, and a lock-up control device for controlling an engaged condition of the lock-up clutch.

Abstract: A method and a device for controlling the oil supply of an automatic transmission (gearbox) and to a starting element. The method can guarantee a sufficient supply of oil to a hydraulic control unit of the automatic transmission and/or the starting element, in particular an oil-cooled friction clutch, both during the operation of the internal combustion engine (4) and when the latter is at a standstill with the aid of an oil pump (2) that can be mechanically driven by the internal combustion engine (4) and a second oil pump (3) that can be electrically driven. In addition, the cooling oil supply of the starting element is guaranteed by the provision of a low-pressure oil by way of the electrically driven oil pump (3), at least during the starting operation, the stream cooling the starting element (11).

Abstract: The present invention is an exercise routine (ER) display system and method that can substitute as a trainer/therapist for the purpose of leading one or more users through a single exercise task or through an entire ER. The device displays a predetermined series of exercise tasks seriatim in a predetermined sequence, displaying each repetition of each task in the proper cadence according to a set of variable parameters that specify how each maneuver is to be displayed. Audible elements of the display count the repetitions or give cues for proper technique. Various other types of information are shown visually. The exercise maneuvers are displayed on a local display module that includes, in one embodiment, data processing components, data input/output components, display components, and sufficient long-term memory capacity to accommodate a large library of exercise maneuvers.

Abstract: A multi-functional athletic training system for automating many currently manually implemented tasks and performing reaction time, football receiver pattern, and shuttle/split training exercises, including one or more identical training domes, a touchpad unit, and a handheld control unit. In each mode of operation, different cue methods such as MANUAL VISUAL, MANUAL VISUAL & AUDIBLE, CADENCE and PAD may be selected to vary and train the athlete to respond to different starting cues.

Abstract: An exercise regimen tracking and monitoring device includes an electronic data recording device that allows users to manage their exercise regimens in a hands free manner. The device has a hand-held body provided with a display screen having graphical illustrating capabilities. An alpha numeric keypad is included for allowing a user to input and retrieve data. A clip is attached on the casing rear surface, facilitating attachment of the device to the user. A processor and a memory are included and is programmed to allow users to input and instantly recall a workout regimen. A timer is included to track and monitor progress reports on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. A playback device is also included to encourage users with motivational phrases.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rope game device with an outer frame and with ropes rigged within the outer frame forming a spatial net and which are attached in a tensionable manner to specific node points of the outer frame. The invention has the object, to provide a new rope game device, which displays a distinct “fullness” of the spatial net and which manufacture has distinct technological and cost advantages compared to known devices.

Abstract: A combination exercise device including a combination elliptical trainer and abdominal swivelling exercise machine, a combination skating simulation exercise machine and abdominal swivelling exercise machine, an exercise bicycle combined with an abdominal swivelling exercise machine and a recumbent exercise bicycle combined with an abdominal swivelling exercise machine.

Abstract: A training toy and exercise device. A large frame supports a rear wheel and a front wheel. The front wheel is mounted in sized openings in the frame and is controlled by a handle bar. There are no pedals, chains, cranks controlling the operation of the device. A user will sit on the seat and use the user's legs to propel oneself unless the user is coasting. Under those circumstances the user's legs will rest on pegs. The device will find its primary use as a toy for small children who have not yet learned to ride a bicycle. Using this device a child can learn to ride a bicycle and balance himself on a two wheeled vehicle without concern for falling since at anytime the child's legs readily reach the ground given the vehicle's small size and low center of gravity.

Abstract: An apparatus for aerobic leg exercise of a seated user includes a first unit having means for supporting a first linear track on a floor, means for joining a first unit to the first linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the first unit along the first linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A second unit has means for supporting a second linear track on the floor, means for joining a second unit to the second linear track for non-resistive movement and means for enabling the seated user with a multi-positional contact for moving the second unit along the second linear track without substantial vertical movement of the seated user's knee. A means secures the first unit and the second unit at a desired splay angle and a means stabilizes the apparatus.

Abstract: An flexible elongated device for use in human exercise routines or as an implement having an elongated pultruded plastic rod or rods fitting loosely within a plastic tube. At least one of the rods is rectangular in cross section and the tube may be covered by a soft foam plastic sleeve. The rod may be produced by the pultrusion process.

Abstract: An exercise wheel includes a base having a receiving space therein and at least one fan-shaped recession formed at a front bottom side thereof and facing downward; at least one hold bar connected with the base and exposed outside the base; a main wheel rotatably mounted to the base and located in the receiving space; an elastic member mounted between the main wheel and the base for keeping the main wheel restoring after the main wheel is rotated; an auxiliary wheel set rotatably mounted to the base, exposed beneath the base, and engaged with the main wheel to drive the main wheel for rotation; and a steering caster set having a caster frame and a caster, the caster frame being rotatably connected with the base for rotation confined within the fan-shaped recession, the caster being rotatably mounted to the caster frame and partially exposed outside the fan-shaped recession.

Abstract: An exercising assist method and apparatus for includes a pair of foot engaging members each having a structure to be removably coupled to a foot of a person. A pair of wheel assemblies is provided and each of the foot engaging members has one of the wheel assemblies attached thereto. The wheel assemblies engage a wall surface when the foot of the person is pointed toward the wall surface. The wheel assemblies assist the person in performing exercises.

Abstract: A therapeutic and/or exercise apparatus is provided for use in connection with structured, multiaxial, multi-pattern movement that aids in rehabilitation or enhances conditioning. The apparatus generally includes a base and a posture bar that is attached to and extends upwardly from the base. The posture bar is affixed to a top surface of the base and can be removable or collapsible for ease of storage. The top surface of the base also includes a recess therein for receiving one of a variety of controlled motion devices such as a rotary disk that moves freely or is restrained by resistance means or other proprioceptive tools. This feature provides a much more balanced exercise process while also naturally working the entire set of muscle groups related to the exercise rather than simply isolating a single motion or muscle.

Abstract: The push-up block is a device that provides the user with a handgrip for use during push-up exercises, and which further expands the range of exercises and the associated benefits associated with conventional push-ups. The push-up block includes an upper member, having opposed upper and lower surfaces, and a lower member also having opposed upper and lower surfaces. A handle is secured to the upper surface of the upper member, providing the user with a handgrip. The lower surface of the lower member is convex so that at least one lowest point thereof contacts a support surface when the push-up block is in use. For example, the lower surface may be substantially V-shaped, forming a triangular wedge, substantially semicircular or arcuate, or may be substantially pyramidal.

Abstract: An exercise device includes a substantially planar upper surface having a first extent and a second extent and a support structure that supports and spaces the upper surface from the floor. The support structure has a curve with a vertex located between the first extent and the second extent and a support-structure extent that extends beyond the second upper-surface extent in a direction away from the first upper-surface extent.

Abstract: A storage container includes a receptacle having a circumferential sidewall and a sleeve fixedly attached to the receptacle having a circumferential sidewall with a left edge, a right edge, and marginal portions adjacent the left and right edges wherein the edges meet to form a butt seam. The receptacle sidewall and the sleeve sidewall define an insulating layer therebetween. The insulating layer includes a first edge and a second edge wherein the first and second edges do not extend under the marginal portions such that the insulating layer has a smaller circumference than that of the sleeve sidewall. A method for forming a storage container is also provided.

Abstract: A tool for the manual folding of a package blank into a package, includes a bottom plate (2) with an abutment (3) erect from the front edge of the bottom plate, a tongue (4) protruding in front of the abutment from the front edge of the bottom plate, and a jaw (6) acting against the tongue from above, as well as a lip (8) protruding from the abutment, which is spring loaded and back-springing and which is retractable into the abutment against the spring force in dependence of the fact that a part of a package blank in one fold operation is made to pass by the lip, and which thereafter springs back to support the package blank in the attained folded position. A package blank, a method for preparing a package and the use of a tool for preparing a package by folding a package blank are also disclosed.

Abstract: A density centrifuge blood processing system with automatic two-dimensional optical control of fluid separation by observing fluid characteristics in observation regions. The location of the regions is determined by monitoring an optical reference. Points representing edges of an optical reference are measured and lines are computed through the points. An error measurement is calculated for each line. If the error is too large, the image is abandoned. One of the lines is selected as a referent line. A new line is calculated orthogonal to the referent line. The error function is again computed for the dependant line. If the error exceeds a selected maximum, the frame is discarded. A transformation function translates data points from an (r, s) domain derived from measurements of the edges into an (x, y) domain used to identify pixels in the observation areas.

Abstract: A method for performing intraocular brachytherapy and an apparatus for performing the same is disclosed. The apparatus preferably comprises a hand-held delivery device that advances a radiation source into an associated cannula or probe that is positioned adjacent the target tissue. The handpiece provides for shielded storage of the radiation source when retracted from the cannula and includes a slider mechanism for advancing and retracting the radiation source. The radiation source is mounted to a wire that has a flexible distal end and a relatively stiffer proximal end. A positioning system for the cannula is also disclosed.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices for targeted delivery of thermotherapy. These devices are useful in the treatment of diseased tissue in conjunction with magnetic compositions. Further disclosed are methods for treating diseased tissue, which involve the administration of a thermotherapeutic magnetic composition to a patient or a portion of a patient, and the application of an alternating magnetic field to inductively heat the thermotherapeutic magnetic composition. The devices and the methods disclosed herein are useful for the treatment of a variety of indications, such as cancer, diseases of the immune system, pathogen-borne diseases, hormone-related diseases, non-cancerous diseased cells or tissue, and undesirable matter, such as toxins and reaction-by-products associated with organ transplants.