Abstract: A beam shaping assembly for neutron capture therapy includes a beam inlet, a target having nuclear reaction with an incident proton beam from the beam inlet to produce neutrons forming a neutron beam defining a main axis, a moderator adjoining to the target, a reflector surrounding the moderator, a thermal neutron absorber adjoining to the moderator, a radiation shield arranged inside the beam shaping assembly and a beam outlet. The neutrons are moderated to epithermal neutron energies. The reflector leads the neutrons deviated from the main axis back, and a gap channel is arranged between the moderator and the reflector. The thermal neutron absorber is used for absorbing thermal neutrons so as to avoid overdosing in superficial normal tissue during therapy. The radiation shield is used for shielding leaking neutrons and photons so as to reduce dose of the normal tissue not exposed to irradiation.

Abstract: An X-ray therapy system includes a gantry, a positron emission tomography (PET) detection device in the gantry, and an irradiation unit in the gantry (and configured to radiate X-rays to a patient. The PET detection device has a pair of photon detection units and photon detection unit-moving devices configured to move the pair of photon detection units with respect to the gantry.

Abstract: A method for delivering therapeutic radiation to a target includes positioning a multi-aperture collimator on the skin within a trajectory of orthovoltage x-rays directed at the target, thus generating an array of minibeams, each of width between 0.1 mm to 0.6 mm. The skin is irradiated with the array. An effective beam of therapeutic radiation, which may be a solid beam, is delivered to the target at a predetermined tissue depth by merging adjacent orthovoltage x-ray minibeams sufficiently to form the effective beam. The effective beam may be formed proximal to the target. The depth at which the effective, preferably, solid, beam is formed is controlled by varying one or more of the spacing of the minibeams in the array, the minibeam width, the distance from the x-ray source to the collimator, and the x-ray source spot size. Planar minibeams can be arc-scanned while continuously modulating beam shape and intensity.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for thermally-induced renal neuromodulation. Thermally-induced renal neuromodulation may be achieved via direct and/or via indirect application of thermal energy to heat or cool neural fibers that contribute to renal function, or of vascular structures that feed or perfuse the neural fibers. In some embodiments, parameters of the neural fibers, of non-target tissue, or of the thermal energy delivery element, may be monitored via one or more sensors for controlling the thermally-induced neuromodulation. In some embodiments, protective elements may be provided to reduce a degree of thermal damage induced in the non-target tissues.

Abstract: A method of producing breathing air includes receiving intake air from an ambient air source, collecting the intake air in one or more collection pots of a distribution system, and distributing the intake air from the one or more collection pots to one or more breathing hoses. The method further includes continuously monitoring the intake air communicated to the one or more collection pots for one or more parameters and periodically recording readings of the continuous monitoring communicated wirelessly in the distributed system.

Abstract: Thermally activated devices, including thermally activated release devices. These devices may be used as part of any device or system in which thermal activation may be desired. In particular, described herein are thermally activated devices configured as sprinkler valves. The thermally activated devices typically include a channel and a plug element, where the plug element is a shape memory material, which may be a single-crystal shape memory alloy. The channel has two connected regions, where the first region has a diameter that is greater than the diameter of a plug element in a first configuration and the second region has a diameter that is less than the diameter of the plug element in the first configuration but greater than the diameter of the plug element in its second configuration.

Abstract: This invention improves on existing trampolines by utilizing a strap and pulley to relocate the resilient means from a horizontal position adjacent to the jumping surface to a vertical position below the upper trampoline frame.

Abstract: A trampoline or trampoline system including a frame or other foundation; biasing means mounted on or to said frame or other foundation; and a plurality of jumping mats connected to selected first ones of said biasing means respectively above said frame or other foundation in side by side relationship, said selected first ones of said biasing means being arranged to bias said plurality of mats outwards to tension said mats, and said plurality of mats being operatively connected to each other along respective adjacent portions thereof and/or to selected second ones of said biasing means along their respective adjacent portions, said second ones of said biasing means being arranged to bias adjacent ones of said plurality of mats upwards and/or outwards away from their respective centers and/or towards each other.

Abstract: A trampoline game has a trampoline with a trampoline frame and a trampoline bed. The trampoline bed is connected to the trampoline frame by a plurality of springs. A gun has an infrared emitter emitting an infrared signal. A target has one or more infrared receivers capable of receiving a signal from the infrared emitter of the gun. A second gun also has an infrared emitter emitting an infrared signal, and the target is capable of receiving an infrared signal from the second gun. A bounce sensor can be used for sensing user bounces. The bounce sensor outputs data which could be sent to a microprocessor. Defined game parameters may be stored in memory programmed into a microprocessor that receives data.

Abstract: A retractable wall mounted exercise rack system for providing an exercise rack that may be easily and compactly stored when not in use. The retractable wall mounted exercise rack system generally includes one or more brackets attached to a wall, a pair of support members, and a plurality of arms pivotally extending from the brackets and pivotally connecting to the support members. One or more actuators are connected between the brackets and the arms to assist in lifting the structure into a compact retracted position for storage.

Abstract: An exercise device including two foot platforms riding on elongated rails for longitudinal motion relative thereto. The platforms are directly connected to each other by one or more elastic elements. The platforms are also connected by linear and/or rotary dampers to provide motion damping. In addition, weights and/or flywheels may be used to smooth the oscillations. When the two platforms are side-by-side, the elastic elements run in a substantially crosswise direction. A seated user may place the user's feet on the platforms and move his/her feet and lower legs back and forth in a scissoring motion to move the platforms in opposing directions along the rails. In so doing, the user overcomes the resistance of the elastic elements and dampers connecting the platforms. This provides the user with exercise and its accompanying benefits.

Abstract: A student desk promoting brain-based movement. The student desk provides a frame carrying a table and a seat and a combination of one or more features designed to allow productive movement that stimulates and enhances cognitive learning. Various aspects of the student desk include semispherical seating surface, a rotatable seat with twist resistance, a cushioned seating surface, a height adjustable table, a sensory strip on the bottom of the table, and resistance bands secured to the frame. These enhancements provide a number of different outlets for students to release nervous energy in a non-disruptive manner while remaining focused on educational activities.

Abstract: A power flex ring system having a plurality of rings of semi-rigid elastomeric material, each ring having an initial shape, the plurality of rings interconnected to form a ring chain. A user handle is adapted for connection to a selected one of the rings to form a first chain end. A securement mechanism is adapted to connect to a selected one of the remaining rings to form a second chain end and to secure the second chain end to a fixed structure, wherein the handle, the chain and the securement mechanism are structurally configured to facilitate an exercise motion by a user exerting a force via the handle to deform the plurality of rings from their initial shapes. Each of the plurality of rings has a selected tensile strength and a different color indicating the tensile strength of the rings.

Abstract: Disclosed is a muscle toning garment configured for use with modular, interchangeable resistance elements. The garment provides resistance to movement throughout an angular range of motion. The garment may be low profile, and worn by a wearer as a primary garment or beneath conventional clothing. Toning may thereby be accomplished throughout the wearer's normal daily activities, without the need for access to conventional exercise equipment. Alternatively, the device may be worn as a supplemental training tool during conventional training techniques.

Abstract: A system and method for over speed and resistive training is provided. The method may comprise applying an assistive training force to a trainee which assists the self locomotion of the trainee to reach an over speed condition. The method may further comprise applying a resistive training force to the trainee which resists the self-locomotion to the training along the training path, the resistive training force being applied to the trainee while the trainer is in an over speed condition. The forces, either resistive or assistive, may vary linearly. The system may comprise a pair of modules, each module comprising a frame carrying a plurality of pulleys and a resistance cord. Each of the modules is adapted to provide a training vector to a trainee and is positioned on opposite side of training path to provide both resistive and assistive training vectors.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a grip apparatus for exercise equipment, the grip apparatus comprising: a first annular member having a first annular sidewall and a first flange extending radially inwardly from the first annular sidewall; a second annular member having a second annular sidewall and a second flange extending radially inwardly from the second annular sidewall, a diameter of the second annular sidewall being less than a diameter of the first annular sidewall, the second annular member being positioned within the first annular member whereby the first annular sidewall, the second annular sidewall, the first flange and the second flange define together an annular chamber; a handle member connected to the second annular sidewall; and a bearing in the annular chamber, the first annular sidewall frictionally engaging a first race of the bearing and the second annular sidewall frictionally engaging a second race of the bearing.

Abstract: A mounting frame for releasably securing a pedal exerciser to a table is disclosed. The mounting frame includes a frame assembly having a pair of generally opposed end members dimensioned to extend across an upper surface of the table and configured to receive feet of the pedal exerciser, and a pair of generally opposed side members connected to the pair of generally opposed end members at corresponding ends thereof, so as to cooperatively define a central aperture therewith with the pair of generally opposed side members configured to engage opposite sides of the table. The frame assembly further includes a first strap dimensioned to extend across the central aperture and engage the pair of generally opposed side members so as to releasably secure the table therebetween.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a walking training apparatus.

Abstract: One or more processors may be configured to receive, via a radio from one or more sensors, one or more streams of sensor values indicating: (1) accelerations of a boxer's arm within a first range of acceleration, measured by a first acceleration sensor, (2) accelerations of a boxer's arm within a second range of acceleration, measured by a second acceleration sensor, and (3) rotation of the boxer's arm measured by a gyroscope sensor. The one or more processors may be configured to determine, based on the received sensor values from the first acceleration sensor, whether a punch landed but not to measure a force or velocity of the punch. The one or more processors may be configured to determine, based on the received sensor values from the second acceleration sensor, at least one of a force or a velocity of the punch but not to detect whether the punch landed.

Abstract: A device is used for carrying out movements by shifting the center of gravity and/or actuating muscles of a human body. A user lies on the device and shifts the center of gravity by moving his or her hip region in order to incline a movable part of the device including the user's own body in different directions. Furthermore, the user wears video goggles or the like during the process and can move in a virtual environment using the overall system, which includes the video goggles and the movement device and can interact with these. The movements caused by the user can be generated solely using gravity by shifting the center of gravity. Additionally, the movements of the device are influenced by motors or dampers arranged in or on the device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for arranging dimples on a golf ball surface in which the dimples are arranged in a pattern derived from at least one irregular domain generated from a regular or non-regular polyhedron. The method includes choosing control points of a polyhedron, generating an irregular domain based on those control points, packing the irregular domain with dimples, and tessellating the irregular domain to cover the surface of the golf ball. The control points include the center of a polyhedral face, a vertex of the polyhedron, a midpoint or other point on an edge of the polyhedron and others. The method ensures that the symmetry of the underlying polyhedron is preserved while minimizing or eliminating great circles due to parting lines.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by superposed curves. In addition, the present invention is directed to golf balls having improved aerodynamic performance due, at least in part, to the selection of the dimple plan shapes and resulting dimple patterns.

Abstract: Golf ball incorporating mixtures of thermoplastic polymers and polymethyl methacrylate (MMA) copolymers. The thermoplastic polymer and MMA copolymers may be included in weight ratios of from 98:2 to 50:50. The mixture may have different hardness than that of the thermoplastic polymer, a glass transition temperature Tg-m greater than a glass transition temperature Tg-tp of the thermoplastic polymer, and a modulus, tensile strength and ultimate elongation greater than that of the thermoplastic polymer.

Abstract: The invention provides a golf ball having a core and a cover of one layer or a plurality of layers, the core being formed of a material molded under heat from a rubber composition which includes (A) a base rubber, (B) an organic peroxide, and (C) water and/or a metal monocarboxylate. The product P×E of the difference P (mol/m3) in crosslink density between the core surface and the core center, as measured based on a toluene swelling test, multiplied by the deflection E (mm) of the core when compressed under a final load of 1,275 N (130 kgf) from an initial load state of 98 N (10 kgf) is at least 28×102 mol/m3·mm.

Abstract: Multi-layered golf ball core sub-assemblies and the resulting golf balls are provided. The core structure includes an inner core (center) comprising a foam composition, preferably foamed polyurethane. The intermediate and outer core layers are preferably formed from foamed and non-foamed thermoset compositions. For example, the intermediate core can be formed from a thermoset rubber so there are adjoining foam core layers (inner and intermediate) and the outer core layer can be formed from a non-foamed thermoset rubber. The core layers have different hardness and specific gravity levels. The core assembly preferably has a positive hardness gradient extending across the entire assembly. The core structure and resulting ball have relatively good resiliency.

Abstract: Multi-piece golf balls having a multi-layered solid core and multi-layered cover are provided.

Abstract: A golf club shaft connection assembly comprising first and second shaft sections, male and female adaptors, a hollow retainer, a spring, and a plurality of balls is disclosed herein. The male and female adaptors are each attached to the first and second shaft sections, respectively, preferably with a permanent adhesive. The male adaptor comprises a protrusion that fits within a keyed interior of the female adaptor, and moving the hollow retainer towards the male adaptor reversibly fixes the two adaptors together, while moving the hollow retainer towards the female adaptor allows the male adaptor to be removed from the female adaptor.

Abstract: A golf club head comprises a sole, a recessed sole port in the sole; and a rotatably adjustable sole piece adapted to be at least partially received within the sole port and comprising a central body having a plurality of contact surfaces adapted to contact the sole port and being offset from each other along a central axis extending through the central body of the sole piece. The sole piece can be positioned at least partially within the sole port at five or more rotational and axial positions with respect to the central axis, wherein at each rotational position, at least one of said contact surfaces of the central body contacts the sole port to set the axial position of the sole piece. The sole port and/or the sole piece can be generally pentagonal in shape.

Abstract: A putter having a body with a striking surface, an upper surface that is visible to player when in the address position and a sole plate that is coupled to a bottom surface of the body. The upper surface includes at least one aperture and the sole plate includes a sightline projection that extends into the aperture to form a sightline on the putter that is visible to the player.

Abstract: Examples of golf club heads and methods to manufacture golf club heads are generally described herein. In one example, a golf club head may include a body portion with a toe portion, a heel portion, a rear portion, a front portion with a strike face, a sole portion, and a top portion with a plurality of weight ports. The body portion may define a periphery of the golf club head. The golf club head may also include a plurality of weight portions with each weight portion disposed in one weight port of the plurality of weight ports. Other examples and examples may be described and claimed.

Abstract: Embodiments of golf bag support mechanisms are disclosed herein. Other examples and related methods are also generally described herein.

Abstract: A golf tee set is provided with a keeper for preventing a tee from flying into a driving range or being lost, in which a first golf tee is tethered to a second golf tee, wherein a first point of attachment of the tether to the first golf tee is free of interfering force on at least the first golf tee, and wherein the tether is constructed of a filament having less weight, stiffness and resistance to twisting compared to a minimum weight, stiffness and resistance necessary to cause interference with the first golf tee loaded with a golf ball. The improved tether system avoids using holes in the tee, which can lead to breakage during play, and is removable to allow the user to select different tees for different game circumstances.

Abstract: Embodiments of golf club heads with apertures and methods to manufacture golf club heads are generally described herein. Other embodiments may be described and claimed.

Abstract: A holder for golf clubs with a hanger is disclosed. The holder for golf clubs includes a holder main body including cut parts divisionally formed in the longitudinal direction and opened and closed and opening and closing operating units installed within the holder main body and opened and closed to the left and right and receiving force acting to spread the cut parts, a pair of shape rods disposed inside the edges of the cut parts of the holder main body, contacting each other, and including a pair of opening and closing protrusions protruding upwards from the centers of the shape rods, and a hanger including a pair of fixing protrusions to fix the pair of opening and closing protrusions of the shape rods and detachably fixed to the pair of opening and closing protrusions, thereby allowing the holder main body to be conveniently opened/closed and having a simple structure.

Abstract: To provide a bicycle trainer with which a wheel is less likely to come off even during low-speed running. A bicycle trainer 100 includes a pair of front wheel rollers 10 and 12 to support a front wheel of a bicycle, a pair of rear wheel rollers 20 and 22 to support a rear wheel of the bicycle, and a belt 66 to transmit a rotation of the rear wheel roller 20 to the front wheel rollers 10 and 12. The front wheel rollers 10 and 12 support the front wheel of the bicycle such that a trail when the front wheel of the bicycle is put on the front wheel rollers 10 and 12 becomes equivalent to a trail when the bicycle actually runs on a road surface. The bicycle trainer 100 further includes front wheel roller adjusters 14 and 16 and rear wheel roller adjusters 24 and 26. The front wheel roller adjusters 14 and 16 adjust postures of the front wheel rollers 10 and 12 such that contact positions where the front wheel of the bicycle contacts the front wheel rollers 10 and 12 become constant.

Abstract: A punching bag training system comprises a flexible housing adapted to be wrapped around a punching bag. The housing supports a strike pad array. Each strike pad in the array comprises a force sensor to detect strikes, together with a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are positioned around the force sensor and that are lit when the user strikes the pad accurately. In addition, each strike pad has associated therewith an extension portion that couples the strike pad to the center portion. The connecting portion advantageously includes a set of LEDs that are selectively lit to telegraph a hit point to the user, namely, the strike pad associated with the connecting portion. The LEDs arranged on the connecting portion serve as a runway with the LEDs being lit progressively from the center portion and outward toward the strike pad to be hit next in a programmed hit sequence.

Abstract: The football tackling training sled is a device that is used to train football players how to tackle during a football practice. The football tackling training sled is further defined with a backbone support that is attached to a base member via a spring-loaded counter hinge. The backbone support is encapsulated with a padding so as to be impacted via a user. The backbone support rests at an obtuse angle with respect to the base member. The backbone support includes a track, which interfaces with a floating t-bar. The user impacts the backbone support with a lateral force while the user drives the floating t-bar upwardly and along the track.

Abstract: A golf swing training aid for teaching a golfer to maintain a steady head when swinging a golf club. The golf swing training aid comprises an elongated straight rod attached to the ground, a curved hose section slidable over the elongated straight rod which can be extended and retracted, a hose arc section which is formed from the curved hose when the curved hose is extended longitudinally, a constant tension stopper imparting a stopping action when the curved hose is extended longitudinally, a ball attached to the end of the curved hose, wherein a golfer attaches the elongated rod to the ground, extends the slidable curved hose over the elongated straight rod forming a hose arc section, adjusting the hose arc section to the proper height for the golfer's head to come in contact with the ball providing a steadying action for the golfer to learn to maintain a steady head when swinging a golf club.

Abstract: A method for analyzing sensor data from baseball swings (or swings in similar sports) that transforms data into a reference frame defined by the bat orientation and velocity at impact. The trajectory of the sweet spot of the bat is tracked through the swing, and is analyzed to generate metrics describing the swing. A two-lever model of the swing may be used to model the effects of body rotation and wrist rotation. Data may be analyzed to identify relevant events during the swing such as start of downswing, commit (wrist release), on-plane, peak bat speed, and impact. Illustrative swing metrics derived from the sweet spot trajectory, the swing plane reference frame, and the two-lever model include: forward bat speed, on-plane rotation, hinge angle at commit, hinge angle at impact, body rotation ratio, body tilt angle, and swing plane tilt angle.

Abstract: A shuttlecock loading mechanism with a grabbing mechanism and a pair of ejecting wheels defining a wheel plane. The grabbing mechanism receives a shuttlecock entering the loading mechanism in a vertical position and ejects the shuttlecock from the loading mechanism in an orientation parallel to the wheel plane wherein the pitch of the wheel plane about a wheel horizontal axis is selectively indexed about the wheel's horizontal axis.

Abstract: An exercise machine rail system for improved exerciser mounting and dismounting, improved functional ergonomics, and reduced risk of exerciser injury when using an exercise machine. The exercise machine rail system generally includes either two rails in close relationship which are linked together via connectors or a singular rail. Bias members are disclosed as either extending along either outer side of the rails, internally to the rail, or underneath the rail. Due to the narrow nature of the rails used by the present invention, an exerciser is able to mount and dismount the exercise machine easily and efficiently.

Abstract: A ball net structure arranged to be portable, collapsible, and provide the required structural support to receive or capture a projectile, such as but not limited to a soccer ball or baseball. The ball net structure comprises a support portion, first and second extensions, a first bracket pivotally coupling the first extension to the support portion, a second bracket pivotally coupling the second extension to the support portion, first and second flexible rods removably coupled to the support portion, and a net received by at least the first and second extensions and received by at least the first and second flexible rods. The net is configured to bend the first and second flexible rods from a linear state to an arcuate state, such that a net tension holds the net upright.

Abstract: A web-based platform and method for providing access information regarding athletic events and personal training information. The platform may include an events calendar that may be personalized, a training log, a media portal containing photographs of a participant in an athletic event, and a rankings generator configured to rank a user against other users within given set of parameters.

Abstract: A system or method for displaying a video segment recorded by a camera device on a display device disposed remotely from the camera device. Video segments may be transmitted over a network to a remote viewing location. Video segments sent from a plurality of camera devices may be compiled by a server and displayed on a single display device. Video segments may auto-scroll such that a user need not interact with this display device to begin playback of a video segment. The technology may be used for such purposes as an athlete reviewing videos captured by one or more coaches or spectators.

Abstract: A maxillary, mandibular, or dual concussion orthotic that substantially reduces concussion resulting from forces applied to the lower jaw, and a method of producing the orthotic. The orthotic device produced according to the method described herein is objectively measured and produced to physiological parameters for an individual user. The orthotic is constructed so that the mandibular teeth are firmly indexed into the orthotic to hold the mandible in a specific position relative to the maxilla. The upper and lower jaws are positioned by the orthotic to act as a unit, and cooperate with the orthotic to effectively dissipate concussive forces and provide spacing of the temporomandibular joint, resulting in the decompression of the joint to mitigate transmission of concussive forces from the condyles of the mandible to the temporal bones of the skull.

Abstract: The invention relates to a leg pad for a hockey player. The leg pad extends along a longitudinal axis and comprises an upper portion, a lower portion and a band. The upper portion has a knee cap for covering a knee joint of the player. The lower portion has an upper shell for covering a substantial part of a shin of the hockey player and a lower shell for at least partially covering the shin and ankle of the hockey player. The band extends along part of a periphery of the upper shell and part of a periphery of the lower shell. The band interconnects the upper shell and the lower shell to one another wherein the lower shell is movable relative to the upper shell between a first position and a second position in response to flexion of the ankle.

Abstract: A glove for gripping an object having an inner glove with a lower palm section of relatively non-stretchable material and an upper palm section of relatively stretchable material that overlie the palm side of the hand of person wearing the glove, a back section that overlies the back of the hand, and stalls for receiving the fingers and thumb. An outer panel overlies substantially the entire palm section and is attached to the inner glove along the upper margin of the outer panel and partially or wholly detached from the inner glove along at least one side of the outer panel. The lower margin of the outer panel is also attached to the inner glove in some embodiments, and in others it is secured to the wrist separately from the inner glove. In some disclosed embodiments, the outer panel is fabricated of elastic material that draws the hand toward a closed position for gripping the object.

Abstract: A hockey or lacrosse glove comprising a dorsal sheet extending longitudinally from a proximal end proximate the distal end of the cuff to a distal end proximate the proximal end of each finger gusset and extending transversally from a medial end to a lateral end, the dorsal sheet having a maximal length measured between its proximal and distal ends and a maximal width measured between its medial and lateral ends; and a dorsal protector covering the dorsal sheet. The dorsal protector comprises a single pocket mounted to the dorsal sheet and occupying at least three-quarters of the maximal length of the dorsal sheet and at least three-quarters of the maximal width of the dorsal sheet and a padding element contained in the single pocket, the padding element comprising a flexion zone.

Abstract: A game table television and method that allows for more frequent or continuous use of the game table by enabling additional and/or simultaneous use as a television, which may be conveniently enjoyed and/or controlled by the participants and/or spectators of the table game.

Abstract: Automatic card shufflers may include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting cards from the card shuffler.