Abstract: An apparatus for golf training includes a wrist strap and a ring which are shaped and sized to be worn by a user.

Abstract: A training apparatus to maintain straight arm formation for volleyball player includes an arm sleeve, a pair of elongated support sleeves, a pair of rods, a wrist fastener strap, and a bicep fastener strap. The pair of elongated support sleeves is connected along the arm sleeve so that the pair of rods can be removably inserted into the arm sleeve. When the arm sleeve is worn by the volleyball players, the pair of rods extends from the wrist area to the bicep area over the elbow of the players. Resultantly, the pair of rods prevents the player from bending their arms during game play. The wrist fastener strap and bicep fastener strap that wraps around the arm sleeve and the pair of rods provide additional securing support to maintain the placement of the arm sleeve around the player's arm, during the game play.

Abstract: A training device is described having a net and a frame. The frame has a first side frame, a second side frame defining a net receiving area. The frame includes an adjustable cross-bar with a first section coupled to the first side frame, and a second section coupled to the second side frame. The first section is movable relative to the second section for moving a first portion of the first side frame and a second portion of the second side frame between a net tensioning position a first distance apart and an assembly position a second distance apart. The second distance is less than the first distance. The first distance is a predetermined distance that properly stretches and tensions the net. The net is supported and tensioned to form a concave ramp surface when the adjustable cross-bar is in the net tensioning position.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, a method of improving a participant's ability to move an object toward a desired target through athletic movement is provided. The method comprises establishing a point of focus that is positioned outward from a participant's body. The method further comprises instructing the participant to continuously move the point of focus through one or more series of bodily movements within the field of vision of the participant. By shifting his or her emphasis on continuously moving the point of focus, the participant is able to improve focus and concentration, and eliminate the stress and anxiety associated with executing an athletic movement. The method also naturally triggers correct body mechanics, including the proper sequential release of the participant's joints.

Abstract: A golf aid for assisting a user in reading a green includes a user tracking system to determine the location of a user on a golf course, a heads up display, and a processor. The heads up display is configured to be worn on the user's head, and to display an image within a field of view of the user. The processor is in communication with the user tracking system and with the heads up display, and maintains a representation of a topology for each of a plurality of golf greens, receives an indication of the location of the user from the user tracking system, identifies one of the plurality of golf greens that is the closest to the user, and displays a representation of the topology within the field of view of the user via the heads up display.

Abstract: A golf swing training device is provided with a hoop positioned above and inclined relative to an operating surface; a support frame connected to and adapted to support the hoop; and a carriage. The carriage has a body portion, a club holder being pivotally connected to the body portion, and a roller dolly being connected to the body portion, the roller dolly being secured to the hoop and adapted to rotate around a circumference of the hoop, wherein a longitudinal club shaft axis of the club holder is angularly offset relative to a plane which is perpendicular to an axis of symmetry of the hoop.

Abstract: An adjustable golf club putter head is disclosed herein. The putter head includes a removable alignment feature that can be swapped with a different alignment feature to change the alignment pattern, and a removable divider piece that contrasts with the alignment feature and can be swapped with different divider pieces to affect the cosmetics of the putter head and also adjust the putter head's mass properties.

Abstract: A shaft having an upper end; a first horizontal arm fixedly attached to the upper end of the shaft and a second, semi-rigid, flexible side arm fixedly attached to the first horizontal arm such that the second semi-rigid, flexible side arm bendably extends beyond the terminating end of the first horizontal arm, with a slightly downward slope; and means for releasably attaching to the side of a tennis ball provided on the second, semi-rigid, flexible side arm, such that when the tennis ball is attached to the second semi-rigid, flexible side arm, its slightly downward slope and slight curve provides a visual perception that the tennis ball is traveling on its way down to the trainee, while simultaneously being held in a manner which allows the trainee's racquet to travel up on, through and over the tennis ball, thereby repeatedly and consistently placing the tennis ball within the racquet's sweet-spot, without impeding the trainee's stroke.

Abstract: Electrically conductive apparatus obviates the need for a traditional fencing “Mask Cord” while still permitting a satisfactorily resilient connection between a conventional electric fencing Mask and a target vest/jacket (“Lame”), and offers many advantages including “effortless” connectivity and positioning—in a preferred embodiment, situated between a conventional fencing Mask Bib and Lame—whereby enhanced safety is achieved during play by making the Mask even harder to tip upwards, thereby reducing the chances for injury due to neck exposure.

Abstract: A virtual reality-based exercise device includes a fitness device including a main exercise unit providing a predetermined exercise function to a user, a virtual reality device connected to the fitness device to communicate therewith, and a control unit connected to a server to communicate therewith and controlling the main exercise unit, based on information output from the virtual reality device. The control unit receives score information related to the predetermined exercise function stored in the server and provides the score information to the user through the virtual reality device.

Abstract: A method for determining split-times in a relay race run using one or more lanes of a running track, where a relay team in each lane carries a respective relay baton, includes, for each lane: (a) periodically determining a location of the respective relay baton, (b) determining, for one or more take-over zones in the lane, respective first times when the relay baton crosses a respective line within the take-over zone, (c) determining a second time when a finish line of the relay race is reached, and (d) determining a split-time for each segment of the relay race, based upon a start time of the relay race, the one or more first times, and the second time.

Abstract: A leg stabilization or performance system for a skier or snowboarder that absorbs part of the pressure on a user's legs and drives the resistance force down to user's boots, acting like a shock absorber is disclosed. This function also allows the skis or snowboard to keep closer contact with the snow, giving the skier/snowboarder more control through the turns. The performance system includes removably fixable leg straps, upper and lower adjustable leg shafts or portions, a resistance assembly with a shock absorber and a variable resistance adjuster, a boot attachment, and an activator switch. The configuration of the system allows a user to set the system to various levels of resistance.

Abstract: A protection device for a holder of a martial arts board/target provides protection from direct impact and/or from the force/shock that is transmitted rearward to the hand and wrists of the holder of the board/target. The device receives the board/target holder's fingers, and a slanted floor inside the device urges the fingers into a generally curled or other inwardly-slanted position, and urges the rest of the hand, the wrist, and forearm into ergonomic and safer positions. The device is preferably made of material(s) in a particular hardness range that protects the user's fingers but that also prevents injury to the striker who is hitting/kicking the board/target. There are preferably no flanges or stops that limit placement of the device to particular places on the board, but rather the holder determines and controls the placement.

Abstract: A blade holder assembly for a skate including a blade holder having an elongated groove defined in a bottom surface, and a recess extending upwardly therefrom in alignment with a pedestal, for engagement with a blade. The pedestal has an internal cavity defined therein separate and spaced from the elongated groove and the recess. A locking arm is engaged to the pedestal and movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking arm has an engagement end protruding into the recess through an opening defined in a wall of the pedestal. A greater portion of the engagement end protrudes into the recess in the locked position than in the unlocked position. At least a major part of the locking arm, including the engagement end, remains outside of the internal cavity of the pedestal in the locked and unlocked positions. A blade assembly is also discussed.

Abstract: A sports board comprises, at a minimum, a top layer, a bottom layer, and a core in between them. A structural element with puzzle piece shape fits into a correspondingly shaped seat formed by the core, in between the top and bottom layers. The shape of the structural element prevents the structural element from being dislodged by shock forces frequently associated with use of the board. Machined or molded features are provided that penetrate or partially penetrate the structural element. These features, which are filled or included with resin, adhesive or another chemical bonding agent, resist horizontal shearing between the structural element, the core, and the top and bottom layers. A leading portion of the structural element protrudes out from in between the top and bottom layers, forming a bumper that acts as the first point of contact between the board and the ground or an obstacle.

Abstract: A ridable kart having a front portion rotatably coupled to a rear portion. The front portion includes an inner surface that is adjacent to an outer cover portion and the two surfaces move relative to one another. The outer cover portion includes window portions or openings through which a portion of the inner surface is visible. The inner surface includes a visual feature that is visible through the window portions and the visual features moves relative to the window portions when the front portion rotates relative to the rear portion.

Abstract: A wearable motorized device comprising a shoe bracket, which can be fastened to a shoe; wheels that are installed on the left and right sides of the shoe bracket in parallel to support the wearer's lateral skating and longitudinal walking; a driving motor for rotationally driving the wheels; and a battery pack for powering the driving motor. The wheels are not coaxially installed on the two sides of the shoe bracket to drive the wearer's longitudinal skating, but instead are installed on the two sides of the shoe bracket in parallel to drive the wearer's lateral skating; the wearer can position his/her legs apart during skating, so the skating stability is improved. Its general contour does not significantly exceed the contour of the shoe in the longitudinal direction, thus and it will not strain the wearer when ascending or descending stairs.

Abstract: A four-wheel sensor controlled vehicle having a base and a control box installed with a battery and a control panel; two driving wheels are installed at the bottom surface of the base close to the front edge of the base, and two universal wheels are installed at the bottom surface of the base close to the rear edge of the base. The driving wheel has a hub assembled with a hub motor assembly of a motor. The base is installed with four weighing sensors at four corners, the first weighing sensor and the third weighing sensor respectively correspond to the fore sole and rear sole of the left foot, the second weighing sensor and the fourth weighing sensor respectively correspond to the fore sole and the rear sole of the right foot. The control panel is connected with the motor and the weighing sensors.

Abstract: A dealing shoe structure comprises a card shoe, a card pusher device and a fixing lever. The card shoe includes a card-receiving space for receiving the poker cards, an installation space arranged below the card-receiving space, and a card-support inclined board separating the installation space from the card-receiving space. The card-support inclined board includes a control hole interconnecting with the installation space and the card-receiving space. The card pusher device is arranged in the card-receiving space and on the card-support inclined board. The fixing lever is arranged inside the installation space and includes a pivotal point pivotally connected with the card shoe; a protrudent pillar extending through the control hole into the card-receiving space. The protrudent pillar blocks the card pusher device to stay on the upper region of the card-receiving space to increase convenience of placing poker cards.

Abstract: In a method for taking an image or a portion of an image and replicating the image within an array, the images within the array are manipulated, such as by rotating or flipping the images or creating mirror-images of the original image or portion of the image, to create symmetrical images which relate to the original image but have a different appearance. Such modified images can be used in creating jigsaw puzzles, fabric designs, clothing patterns and the like.

Abstract: A gaming table provides for use of RFID technology to track chip movement on a table game and to infer an association between a wager and a player position based on a chip identifier of a chip placed on a particular position of the table. In some embodiments, previous position history of the chip is also taken into account in determining a player position associated with a wager.

Abstract: New human bio-sensors in a virtual reality headset can be worn comfortably for extended periods of time, detecting brain, nerve, ocular, muscle or other bio-signals. Recording raw data, amplification, digital conversion, filtering, support subsequent manipulation by iteratively creating multiple interpretation maps. Data processing and transmission are reduced so that control of a remote device may occur in real time, based on an event in the body of a wearer. A signal interpretation engine iteratively creates numerous interpretation maps, the best correlated one being used exclusively, thus minimizing false positives and requiring minimal data to distinguish an event from any other non-presence of that event. After training and verification, operation in real time processes live, continuous data to control a remote device based on the events detected by the sensor set in a headset, arm bands, leg bands, gloves, or boots.

Abstract: A method for handling communication for a computer game is provided. Once example method includes executing the computer game for game play by a user. The computer game has an interface for recording audio signatures to use during game play based specific qualifying events. During game play, the method detects that a qualifying event has occurred by examining metadata associated with the game play. The method includes generating a message in response to detecting the qualifying event. The message is configured to include an audio signature that was associated with the qualifying event. Then, transmit the message including the audio signature to a predefined recipient that is playing the computer game via a second computing device. The audio signature is output by a speaker associated with the second computing device upon receiving the message.

Abstract: Methods and systems of pairing controllers for game play are presented. In one example, a method of pairing controllers to a base computing device for playing a game executed on the base computing device is provided. The method includes receiving a pairing request from one of a first or a second controller. The pair request is generated in response physical contact between the first and second controllers. The method assigns the first and second controllers as a first pairing for a first player and assigns the first pairing to a first color. The method includes transmitting the first color to the first or second controllers, such that at least one of the first and second controllers for the first pairing is configured to illuminate in the first color. Additional pairs of controllers will be assigned a different color, so that each player has a color differentiated color on their respective controller.

Abstract: A vaporization device that includes an entertainment mode or modes including one or more game modes. The vaporization device may enhance the user experience. The entertainment mode may be engaged by a sequence of predetermined manipulations of the vaporization device. The entertainment mode may include one or more interactive games using the device, and/or one or more display modes. The interactive games may include a pattern-following game, a memory game, a triggered output game, or a chance game. The entertainment mode may also include games that may be played by one or more persons. The entertainment mode may modify the operation (e.g., heater control, appearance, user interface, etc.) of the device while still permitting the vaporization of vaporizable material.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for creating, maintaining, and participating in an on-line community for education, behavior modification, Smart Cities, eGovernment and sustainable lifestyles. More particularly, this invention is for an on-line open source methodology for multiple participants, taking place in a shared virtual space to enable health education and behavior modification; smart city development and government participation, and living sustainable lifestyles. An important element of this invention is the use of guests, which is a specific player task that represents real world problems, such as those published by government agencies, like the Smart Cities Council.

Abstract: A short-range wireless communication network may be established by direct communication between two or more wireless communication devices and/or communication via an access point to permit game play between a plurality of devices. A conventional cellular telephone includes an integrated short-range transceiver. The short-range transceivers of multiple wireless communication devices can be coupled together to dynamically form a short-range communication network without utilizing any wireless communication network supported by a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN). Data is disseminated between the wireless communication devices using a data message synchronization process. Messages may also be carried from one wireless network to another as the communication devices are carried by individuals.

Abstract: A method of and system for handling latency issues encountered in producing real-time entertainment such as games of skill synchronized with live or taped televised events is described herein. There are multiple situations that are dealt with regarding latencies in receiving a television signal with respect to real-time entertainment based on the unfolding games played along with the telecasts. Systemic delays, arbitrarily imposed delays of a broadcast signal and variances in the precise broadcast times of taped television programs have to be equalized so as to provide fair entertainment.

Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure describe methods and apparatuses that hide latency during an interaction between an attacking client device platform and a defending client device platform in a multiplayer game played over a network. The attacking client device platform predicts a successful attack will be made and delivers a hit event to the defending client device platform. In order to provide additional time to wait for a hit reply from the defending client device platform the attacking client device platform initiates an altered animation mode that lengthens the run-time of the animation. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A system that incorporates the subject disclosure may include, for example, a processor coupled to a memory storing instructions and to a near field sensor. Execution of the instructions can cause the processor to perform operations including defining a zone corresponding to a portion of an accessory comprising the sensor, detecting a gesture of an object in the zone by sensing the object with the sensor, determining that the gesture is a new gesture not previously associated with the zone and not previously associated with a gaming action controlling presentations produced by a gaming application, associating the gesture with the zone and with the gaming action, subsequently detecting the gesture in the zone, obtaining the gaming action associated with the gesture, and transmitting the gaming action to the gaming application. Other embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: Technologies related to location graph adapted video games are generally described. In some examples, location graphs may be generated for received environment inputs, such as received three dimensional (3D) models of environments. Video games may be adapted to generated location graphs, such as by placing video game content at nodes of location graphs. Video game and/or user parameters may be accommodated when adapting video games to location graphs.

Abstract: Embodiments of systems presented herein may perform automatic granular difficulty adjustment. In some embodiments, the difficulty adjustment is undetectable by a user. Further, embodiments of systems disclosed herein can review historical user activity data with respect to one or more video games to generate a game retention prediction model that predicts an indication of an expected duration of game play. The game retention prediction model may be applied to a user's activity data to determine an indication of the user's expected duration of game play. Based on the determined expected duration of game play, the difficulty level of the video game may be automatically adjusted.

Abstract: Embodiments of systems presented herein may identify users to include in a match plan. A parameter model may be generated to predict the retention time of a set of users. A queue of potential users, a set of teammates, and/or opponents may be selected from a queue of waiting users. User information for the set of teammates and/or opponents may be provided to the parameter model to generate a predicted retention time. The set of teammates and/or opponents may be approved if the predicted retention time meets a predetermined threshold. Advantageously, by creating a match plan based on retention rates, the engagement and/or retention level for a number of users may be improved compared to existing multiplayer matching systems.

Abstract: A method for providing users gaming advice based upon the structure of a game based upon an external activity, where the external activity operates independently of the game. The user provides parameters and receives gaming advice allowing the user to increase their odds of winning by picking high-value picks, even when the high-value picks appear to have poor traditional odds.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for a sports strategy system, comprising a processor. Storage media is communicatively coupled to the processor, and the storage media includes logic configured to display a graphical user interface comprising a strategy vista interface. The graphical user interface features one or more sport-specific elements and a score region. Player attribute logic is included to store a plurality of player profiles that correspond to a plurality of players in a sports game. Matrix logic is configured to store all potential game outcomes, and filter application logic is configured to store offensive and defensive filters so as to provide one or more game scenarios.

Abstract: A cable in suspension (clear span) supports a trolley. At the upper end, a launch block fixed to the cable registers the trolley in all directions, including a safety release link holding the trolley near the launch block. After release and descent with a rider, the trolley strikes an attenuator of distributed springs and spacers. The spring stack absorbs momentum from the trolley, but a leash limits recoil “bounce” after reversing the trolley. A second, recoil, leash resists recoil by capturing a subset of the springs between respective ends of itself and the first leash. The doubly leashed trolley will oscillate to a stop in an equilibrium position.

Abstract: A track for a toy vehicle and a track section for forming the same. Each of the track sections has first and second edges and an upper surface extending therebetween. Furthermore, the track sections have a first connector extending from the first edge and a second connector extending from the second edge. The first connector of one of the track sections receives the second connector of another one of the track sections to detachably couple two of the track sections together to form the track. Furthermore, when coupled together the first and second track sections are movable relative to one another to adjust the inclination of the upper surfaces so that the track created using the track sections is modular and adjustable.

Abstract: An optical-based aerial gaming system comprises: a multirotor unmanned flying device comprising: a main body; a plurality of propulsion units, a wireless receiver configured to receive data via radio communication; a wireless transmitter configured to send data via radio communication; one or more light generators configured to project laser or infrared light from the unmanned flying device; and one or more light sensors configured to detect laser or infrared light projected by a separate unmanned flying device; and a remote control unit comprising: a wireless transmitter configured to send data via radio communication; and a wireless receiver configured to receive data via radio communication, wherein the unmanned flying device is configured to transmit to the remote control unit, using the wireless transmitter of the unmanned flying device, at least a portion of encoded data of the detected laser or infrared light.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stage smoke machine with a fast spray gas column, including an oil barrel, an oil pump, a gas tank, a first electromagnetic valve, a heater, a gas-filling device and a controller, wherein, in case of gas loss in the gas tank, the gas tank is replenished with the gas by the gas-filling device so that the gas pressure in the gas tank can be maintained at a pressure sufficient to fast spray smoke oil into the heater, thereby ensuring that every time the smoke machine is started, the smoke machine can quickly show a high level stage effect of fast sprayed smoke. Further disclosed is an electromagnetic valve module which is formed by installing at least two electromagnetic valves integrally on a base. The electromagnetic valve module solves the defects that the layout of the existing smoke machine is loose, messy and inconvenient for inspection and maintenance, makes the installation of components in the smoke machine more reasonable and compact, and saves the installation space.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method for preservation of e.g. microorganisms, especially lactic acid bacteria, said method includes spray freezing.

Abstract: A spray drier system is provided for spray drying a liquid sample such as blood plasma. The spray drier system may include a spray drier device adapted to couple with a spray drier assembly. The assembly may include an enclosure mounted to a frame. The assembly may receive a flow of drying gas which is directed by the enclosure shape towards a spray drying head mounted within the enclosure to the frame. Flows of a liquid sample may be further received by the head, which aerosolizes the liquid sample. Aerosolized liquid sample and drying air may be mixed within a drying chamber of the enclosure to produce dried sample and humid air. The dried sample and humid air may also be separated in a collection chamber of the enclosure, with the humid air exhausted from the enclosure.

Abstract: A counter-current liquid-liquid extraction column (1) adapted for the flow of two or more liquids (2) therein is disclosed. The column comprises within one common vessel (3): a first inlet (41) for a first liquid feed stream (51), a second inlet (42) for a second liquid feed stream (52), a first outlet (61) for a product stream (71), a second outlet (62) for a byproduct stream (72), a mixing section (8) comprising an agitation means (9), a static section (10) comprising a packing (11), optionally a collector (12) and/or distributor (13), characterized in that within the common vessel (3) are only one mixing section (8) and only either one or two static sections (10). The invention further relates to a process for using said column. The present invention further relates also to the use of the column or process in removing aromatic compounds from organic streams, in treating an oil stream of a refinery, or in a liquid-liquid extraction process.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the purification of an organic composition (OC1) by adsorption using an assembly containing at least two adsorbers. The organic composition (OC1) comprising at least one alkane, at least one olefin and at least one compound containing oxygen and/or sulphur is fed into a first adsorber (A1) of the assembly in order to obtain an organic composition (OC2) comprising at least one alkane, at least one olefin and a reduced amount of at least one compound containing oxygen and/or sulphur compared to the respective amount in organic composition (OC1). Hydrogenation of the organic composition (OC2) provides a stream (S2) comprising at least one alkane and a reduced amount of at least one olefin compared to the respective amount in organic composition (OC2) obtained after feeding into the first adsorber (A1). A second adsorber (A2) of the assembly is regenerated by contact with stream (S2).

Abstract: A hyper-productive chromatography technique includes providing a scalable and stackable chromatographic cassette, loading a sample to be processed, operating the scalable chromatographic cassette having an adsorptive chromatographic bed having a volume greater than 0.5 liter by establishing a flow at a linear velocity greater than 500 cm/hr with a residence time of the loading step of less than one minute.

Abstract: Chromatography method in which a gaseous, liquid or supercritical mobile phase containing species to be separated is circulated through a packing, said packing being characterized in that: it comprises a plurality of capillary ducts extending in the packing between an upstream face through which the mobile phase enters the packing and a downstream face through which the mobile phase leaves the packing—the material of the walls comprises a first population of connected pores, providing passages from one duct to the next enabling molecular diffusion to take place between adjacent ducts, pores having a mean diameter (dpore) of greater than 2 times the molecular diameter of at least one species to be separated—the diameter of the ducts is less than 50 ?m.

Abstract: Presently disclosed systems and methods for depositing a compound into a void in a sandwich panel or other structure are configured to reduce the air pressure in and around the void as the compound flows into the void, thereby reducing the amount of air trapped between the compound and the sandwich panel skin (under the compound, within the void) during the repair. Additionally or alternatively, presently disclosed systems and methods for deaerating a compound are configured to remove trapped air from the compound prior to use of the compound (e.g., prior to depositing the compound within a void for repairing the void). In some examples, the same system is configured to both deaerate the compound and deposit the deaerated compound to the void, all while in a reduced air pressure environment inside a vacuum chamber.

Abstract: Systems and methods for extracting hydrocarbon gas utilize a vacuum chamber with a mud chamber portion that is expandable and contractible. Gas is extracted at vacuum pressures.

Abstract: An extrusion system for separating soil entrained in wash water, e.g. from harvesting tuberous produce, includes a settling tank configured to receive a flow of soiled water, to allow soil to settle by gravity, and to allow clarified water collection at the top. A diffuser suspended within the tank converts the flow of soiled water into multiple transverse flows to avoid churning the settled soil. A sensor detects the level of settled soil reaching a predetermined setpoint, and in response the system actuates an auger and opens a pinch valve to force concentrated soil from the bottom of the settling tank.

Abstract: A drive shaft with direct-mounted sprockets is arranged in a chain drive unit. The drive shaft includes a shaft body, a pair of metal plate sprockets, and first padding portions and second padding portions formed of weld beads. The first padding portions are formed such that their positions are changed to alternate with each other in a circumferential direction of the shaft body. The second padding portions are formed such that their positions are changed to alternate with each other in the circumferential direction of the shaft body. A torque input to the shaft body is transmitted to the metal plate sprockets via the padding portions.

Abstract: A filter cartridge includes a casing. A filter medium is disposed within the casing. A female inlet port and a female outlet port are mounted to the casing at an end portion of the casing. The female inlet port is offset from the female outlet port along the radial direction at the end portion of the casing.