Abstract: A treatment planning apparatus includes: a modeler configured to obtain a model definition, wherein the model definition comprises a first quality metric of a first clinical goal; and a treatment planner having: a model trainer configured to obtain a set of existing treatment plans following desired clinical practice, and to perform model training to obtain a trained model based on the existing treatment plans and the first quality metric of the first clinical goal; an objective generator configured to generate a cost function based on the trained model; and an optimizer configured to determine a treatment plan based on the cost function.

Abstract: In radiation treatment planning, a plurality of optimization loops are performed. In each optimization loop computes a dose distribution (60) in a patient represented by a planning image (42) with regions of interest (ROIs) defined in the planning image. Weights (64) for objective functions (50) are determined from objective function value (OFV) goals (52) for the objective functions. An optimized dose distribution is produced by adjusting the plan parameters to optimize the computed dose distribution respective to composite objective function (62). At least one optimization loop may include updating (70) at least one OFV goal to be used in at least the next performed optimization loop. At least one optimization loop may include updating an objective function quantifying compliance with a target dose for a target ROI based on a comparison of a metric of coverage of the target ROI and a desired coverage of the target ROI.

Abstract: A multileaf collimator includes a plurality of beam-blocking leaves of a first type and a plurality of beam-blocking leaves of a second type. The beam-blocking leaves of the first type are alternatingly arranged with the beam-blocking leaves of the second type side by side. Each of the beam-blocking leaves of the first type has a trapezoidal geometry viewed in the leaf longitudinal moving direction comprising a wider end and a narrower end with the wider end being proximal to a source. Each of the beam-blocking leaves of the second type has a trapezoidal geometry viewed in the leaf longitudinal moving direction comprising a wider end and a narrower end with the wider end being distal to the source.

Abstract: Subject positioning systems and methods are provided. A method may include obtaining first information of at least part of a subject when the subject is located at a preset position, and determining, based on the first information, a first position of each of one or more feature points located on the at least part of the subject. The method may include obtaining, using an imaging device, second information of the at least part of the subject when the subject is located at a candidate position. The method may further include determining, based on the second information, a second position of each of the one or more feature points, a first distance between the first position and the second position for each feature point of the one or more feature points, and a target position of the subject based at least in part on the one or more first distances.

Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a radiation treatment device and pertains to the field of medical appliance technologies. The radiation treatment device includes a radiotherapy unit and an imaging unit. The radiotherapy unit is configured to emit a treatment beam to a to-be-treated region in a patient, wherein the to-be-treated region in the patient is located outside the radiotherapy unit. The imaging unit is arranged adjacent to the radiotherapy unit and is configured to emit an imaging beam to the to-be-treated region in the patient. Without moving the to-be-treated region in a patient, the radiotherapy unit may emit the treatment beam to the to-be-treated region in the patient according to the treatment plan worked out to execute the radiation treatment, such that the accuracy of the radiation treatment is improved.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a neutron capture therapy system, including an accelerator for generating a charged particle beam, a neutron generator for generating a neutron beam having neutrons after irradiation by the charged particle beam, and a beam shaping assembly for shaping the neutron beam. The beam shaping assembly includes a moderator and a reflecting assembly surrounding the moderator. The neutron generator generates the neutrons after irradiation by the charged particle beam. The moderator moderates the neutrons generated by the neutron generator to a preset energy spectrum. The reflecting assembly includes a reflecting assembly to deflected neutrons back to the neutron beam and a supporting member to support the reflectors. A lead-antimony alloy is for the reflecting assembly to mitigate a creep effect that occurs when only a lead material is for the reflectors, thereby improving the structural strength of a beam shaping assembly.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a pre-treatment quality assurance (QA) of a radiotherapy device may be provided. The method may include determining a measured dose image through an electronic portal dose imaging device (EPID). The method may include determining an energy fluence distribution map related to radiation beams predicted by a first portal dose prediction model. The method may include determining a predicted dose image based on the energy fluence distribution map and a simulated energy response curve related to the EPID. The method may further include determining differences between the measured and predicted dose images by comparing the dose distributions of the measured and predicted dose images.

Abstract: Devices and methods for treating human cranial hair loss using extracorporeal acoustic shock waves are disclosed. The shock wave device optionally includes a proximal surface, a plurality of shock wave generators disposed on the surface, and a coupling assembly configured to transmit shock waves to a user's scalp.

Abstract: Described is a system for the emergency evacuation of persons from a structure, such as a building, ship, raised platform, stadium or the like, comprising supporting means, designed to be positioned at a window of said structure for the emergency evacuation from said structure; at least one load-bearing structure, coupled with said supporting means, comprising in turn a plurality of modules, each comprising two inflatable longitudinal tubular elements positioned parallel to each other, said modules being positioned in series with each other; a slide having a surface on which the persons evacuated from said structure can slide, said slide being interposed between said two inflatable longitudinal tubular elements of said modules; and a pneumatic inflation system for the selective inflation of said two inflatable longitudinal tubular elements of said modules.

Abstract: A mask device includes a mask body including a front cover to form an outer appearance of the mask body, a frame coupled to the front cover, the frame located in front of a user's nose and mouth when the mask device is worn by the user, and a flow path between the front cover and the frame. A first air cleaner is disposed on one side of the mask body and a second air cleaner is disposed on another side of the mask body, and a first fixing part couples the first air cleaner to the mask body and a second fixing part couples the second air cleaner to the mask body. The first air cleaner is movable with respect to the first fixing part to move towards the frame and the second air cleaner is movable with respect to the second fixing part to move towards the frame.

Abstract: A velcro inserting type universal synthetic resin mask with a replaceable filter, an injection molding apparatus therefor, and a manufacturing method thereof are described. The velcro inserting type universal synthetic resin mask with a replaceable filter can include a mask guide with a rim-like shape which supports a filter insertion portion therein and is formed of a synthetic resin by an injection molding process using an upper mold and a lower mold along with the filter insertion portion; and a velcro for attachment of a filter which is placed at a front portion of a velcro entity for attachment of a filter forming portion of the upper mold during the injection molding process for the mask guide and the filter insertion portion and formed on the mask guide when inserted such that the velcro for attachment of a filter is fixed through a velcro entity insertion hole of the upper mold.

Abstract: A hood is provided that includes a collar and a head covering. The collar includes at least one elastomeric layer configured to be sealingly fit around a body part of a wearer. The elastomeric layer includes perforations. The head covering includes at least one thermoplastic layer configured to receive a head of the wearer and terminating at an edge portion defining an opening configured for insertion of the head of the wearer. The head covering further includes integral connections extending through the perforations of the elastomeric layer to sealingly engage the head covering to the collar. Also provided are containment assemblies and methods of making and using the same.

Abstract: A mask device includes a mask body provided with at least one inlet and at least one outlet located below the inlet, a first air cleaner and a second air cleaner for filtering outside air sucked in from an outside environment and supplying the filtered air through the mask body to the inlet, the first air cleaner coupled to one side of the mask body and the second air cleaner coupled to an other side of the mask body, and a first fixing part and a second fixing part, the first fixing part for coupling the first air cleaner to the mask body and the second fixing part for coupling the second air cleaner to the mask body.

Abstract: A mask device includes a mask body including a front cover to form an outer appearance of the mask body, a frame coupled to the front cover, the frame located in front of a user's nose and mouth when the mask device is worn by the user, the frame including at least one inlet and at least one outlet located below the inlet, and a partition plate between the frame and the front cover, the partition plate forming an upper space and a lower space in the mask body. A first air cleaner is coupled to one side of the mask body and a second air cleaner is coupled to an other side of the mask body, where the first air cleaner and the second air cleaner filters outside air sucked in from an outside environment and supplies the filtered air to the mask body. The upper space of the mask body is in communication with the first air cleaner, the second air cleaner, and the at least one inlet, and the lower space of the mask body is in communication with the at least one outlet.

Abstract: A nasal device for filtering breathing air comprises an elongated support member, and two rounded holder members, each arranged at a respective end of the elongated support member. The holder members are adapted to be inserted into a nostril with a distal end directed into the nostril, and a proximal end adjacent the nostril openings. The holder members comprise a bell-shaped cross-section in at least one plane in a distal-proximal extension.

Abstract: An electrical safety system and method is provided which includes a flexible electrical safety vest, a lifeline coupled with the vest in various configurations, and leg straps. The electrical safety vest includes a number of loops which are used to couple the lifeline in a variety of relationships that enable different types of maneuvering of a worker with relation to a hazard. Various embodiments of the invention can be used to rapidly and safety remove a worker from proximity to an immediate threat to their life, health, or safety. Direct and indirect extraction from a danger are enabled. A variety of methods are also provided for operating various embodiments of the invention.

Abstract: A connector for coupling fall arresting devices to a safety harness. The connector includes a ring that encircles a space configured to receive at least one strap of the safety harness, a first connector member configured to receive a first fall arresting device, and a second connector member configured to receive a second fall arresting device. The ring includes a lateral member, a first side member coupled to a first end of the lateral member, and a second side member coupled to a second end of the lateral member that is opposite the first end. The first connector member is integrally formed with the lateral member, first side member, and second side member.

Abstract: A fall arresting device including a device housing, a shaft within the housing, a rotor assembly rotatably connected to the shaft that includes a drum and a disc having at least one region of a ferromagnetic material, an extendable lifeline connected to the drum, a magnetic sensor positioned stationary relative to the device housing and adjacent to the disc, and a that includes a hard-magnetic material. The magnet positioned stationary relative the device housing and the magnetic sensor, where the magnetic sensor is configured to detect a change in a magnetic field produced by the magnet when the disc rotates about the shaft, the change in the magnetic field induced by the at least one region of the ferromagnetic material being brought within close proximity to the magnet as the disc rotates.

Abstract: The invention relates to a safety harness device for catching a person if they fall, in particular in the case of construction activities, comprising at least one shoulder strap, which has a chest portion, a shoulder portion and a back portion, comprising a locking element for releasably attaching a safety rope, wherein the locking element can be transferred between a working position, in which the locking element is arranged on the back portion side of the shoulder strap, and a catch position, in which the locking element is arranged on the chest portion side of the shoulder strap.

Abstract: The present application provides water-enhancing, fire-suppressing hydrogels that are formulated to minimize toxicity and negative environmental impact. The present application provides a composition comprising: (i) at least one thickening agent; (ii) at least one liquid medium; and, optionally, (iii) one or more suspending agents, wherein the composition consists of >75%, by weight, consumer-grade components and wherein the composition is a concentrate that can be mixed with water or an aqueous solution to form a fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel. Each of the at least one thickening agent, suspending agent and liquid medium can be non-toxic and biodegradable. Also provided are the fire-suppressing, water-enhancing hydrogel and methods of production and use thereof during fire fighting or fire prevention.

Abstract: This invention refers to a folded trampoline which can be installed easily. It is equipped with tubes aimed at supporting bed surface as well as feet outside the bottom of the tubes. There are folding devices between the tubes and the feet, which consist of exterior folding units, interior folding units, handle, plug pin and reset spring. The exterior folding units which are furnished with locating holes, plus the interior folding units, are connected with tubes, and the feet linked with the inner side of the exterior folding units are articulated with the interior folding units and armed with through-holes which plug pin can go through. This invention has several elastic cords corresponding to fixed units. During installation, one end of the elastic cord will be inserted into the fixed unit, and the other end will go through the ring and the tube successively.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an easy-to-assemble trampoline,which includes a flexible mat, a frame, and a plurality of flexible rods, its top of the flexible rods are arranged at its periphery or its bottom of the flexible mat, and its bottom end of flexible rods are retained on the frame. The top end of the flexible rods are fixedly mounted at the periphery or bottom of the flexible mat by a buckle structure; the buckle structure includes a mounting member, a flexible belt and at least one clamping member; one end of the belt is fixed on the flexible mat, the clamping member is fixed on the belt, and the mounting member is provided with a through hole; the belt can pass through the through hole, and the clamping member holds the belt at its outlet of the through hole.

Abstract: An aquatic exercise device is disclosed, able to exert omnidirectional uniform water resistance while exercising, so that equal force is required to move it in any direction. The water resistance of the device according to the invention can be adjusted in a quick and measured way. This device can be operated with one hand and can be brought close to the body of exerciser.

Abstract: A smart resistance bands system including a resistance-band and exercise-attachment combination. The smart resistance bands system is further equipped with wireless connectivity capabilities and is in communication with a network and at least one smart device. The resistance-bands include a sensor system configured to track user parameters, workout metrics, and communicate data directly to the at least one smart device. The resistance-bands may be used for interactive workouts.

Abstract: A free weight includes: an enclosure comprising a plurality of body sections assembled in a shape approximating a torus, each body section forming part of the approximated torus and having a sectional seam formed along an approximated major diameter of the approximated torus, and each body section is coupled to each adjacent body section at an inter-sectional seam, each inter-sectional seam formed along an approximated section diameter of the approximated torus; and a fill disposed within an interior space formed by the enclosure.

Abstract: An exercise support system configured to support at least a portion of a user's weight is disclosed. The exercise support system may include a base assembly including a plurality of frame members defining an interior region of the system. The system may also include a lift assembly comprising a drive assembly and an arm assembly. A body support (e.g., a seat) may be configured with the arm assembly. In general, the base assembly provides support to the lift assembly, and the lift assembly provides the mechanism(s) and forces to raise and lower the arm assembly (and the body support) thereby supporting at least a portion of the user's weight.

Abstract: A Variable-Resistance Curve and Progressive-Resistance System, comprising: one or more fixed resistance components; wherein said one or more fixed resistance components comprise a plate having a hole, one or more arms and one or more weight components; wherein said hole is configured to matingly receive a fixing shape; wherein said one or more arms of each of said fixed resistance components are configured to securely receive said one or more weight components; and wherein said one or more weight components are configured to slidably engage said one or more arms of said fixed resistance components.

Abstract: The proposed invention is a suspension training system that helps perform a large variety of exercises by using users body weight. Bodyweight Resistance Trainer allows you to advance your workout by adjusting your body to use more, or less, gravity. Will help you burn fat, build core strength and tone your entire body. Both resistance straps can be anchored in the door anchor included by attaching both resistance straps carabiners into the door anchor loop.

Abstract: A stationary exercise apparatus includes two connecting members each having an upper end guided to move along a circular path and a lower end coupled to a swing member, so that when the upper end moves along the circular path, the lower end moves along an arc-shaped path. Two supporting members are configured to support a user's feet, which are coupled between the upper end and the lower end of the respective connecting members and movable along a closed path. Two control members each is arranged between the corresponding supporting member and the corresponding swing member for guiding the second portion of the corresponding supporting member along a predetermined path, so that an angle formed between each supporting member and its corresponding connecting member varies as the corresponding swing member moves along the are-shaped path between a first endpoint and a second endpoint.

Abstract: A multi-purpose dynamic exercise bench, for performing a training program of hanging sit-ups in an exercise session, comprising: an “H”-shaped base configured to provide a stable support for the bench; an inclinable bench table having a first and second end, the bench table covered with a bench mat upon which a user lies on his back with his head oriented towards the second end and feet secured at the first end during an exercise session; a bearing support fixed upon the base, the bearing support having a table rotational bearing, the bench table positioned above and fixed to the rotational bearing near the bench table second end; an inclination piston connected to the bench table and to the base, the inclination piston operated to provide inclination of the bench table about the rotational bearing; and an interface control attached to the bench table serving to control functionality of the bench.

Abstract: A Pilates spine corrector having a user-adjustable handle assembly that rotates. The handle assembly has a grip bar that is eccentrically positioned such that it is off centered.

Abstract: A Twisting Stepper Apparatus comprising o Frame Structure Member, a Foot Engagement Member, and an optional Resistance Member. The Frame Structure Member is comprised basically of a Base Frame Member and a Guide Platform Member. The Foot Engagement Member is pivotally mounted to the Base Frame Member and mainly comprises two Foot Support Members pivotally coupled together by a lever assembly such that they move in reciprocating upward and downward motions. The lever assembly is a dual lever assembly which keeps the Foot Support Member in a relatively horizontal positon while moving upward and downward. The Foot Support Members operatively engage the Guide Platform Member, with the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members create the twisting movement of the Foot Engagement Member, and vice versa. The optional Resistance Member provides resistance in the twisting motion of the Foot Engagement Member, and thus also in the upward and downward movements of the Foot Support Members.

Abstract: Disclosed is a bi-directional resistance exercise machine. The bi-directional resistance exercise machine is comprised of two flywheels that provide constant and variable resistance against the movement of a trolley during a push or pull movement. The bi-directional resistance allows a user to work antagonistic muscles in an efficient manner and in one single machine. Accordingly, the present invention provides resistance against a user while pulling a trolley along a track to work the core, legs, back, and biceps, and resistance against a user while pushing a trolley along a track to work the core, chest, triceps, and shoulders.

Abstract: Tri-Power Exercising device allows a rider to simultaneously, or on demand, exercise virtually all muscle groups in his lower and upper body. The device includes a bicycle frame, pedals, forearm bars, sliding seat, computer and electronic display recommending energy modulation amounts from various muscle groups to optimize physical performance on any given trek. Because riders can exercise virtually all muscle groups at once, they reduce their exercising time, continuously builds muscle tissue throughout their whole body, and exercises their cardiovascular and respiratory systems completely. Riders operate the device by rotating legs on the pedals, rotationally oscillating the forearm bars up and down with their arms and shoulders, and then use core muscles to pull and push the seat back and forth on the slider. Inverted racks, pinion gears, and one-way bearings turn this linear power from the oscillating forearm bars and sliding seat into torque that rotates the crank axle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to training equipment for improving the ability of memory and cognition, and muscle power, and a training method using the training equipment. In particular, the present invention relates to training equipment for improving the ability of memory and cognition, and muscle power (upper and lower limb muscle power), the training equipment including: a lower limb muscle power exercise module that includes pedals for strengthening the muscle power of user's lower limbs and/or a handle for steering; a display that implements traveling in a virtual space for memory ability training of the user; and a training unit that improves cognition ability and/or muscle power of the user on the basis of driving data of the lower limb muscle power exercise module, thereby being able to complexly support memory ability training, lower limb muscle power exercise, and upper limb muscle power exercise of rehabilitation patients, patients with dementia, and/or patients with cognitive impairment.

Abstract: Disclosed is a posture coaching method for weight training, which includes sensing an exercising motion of a user by a sensor module that is attached to a part of the body of the user or exercise equipment gripped by the user for exercising; calculating an inherent angle of the sensor module and a linear acceleration of each axis of a user-based coordinate system based on the user by using the sensed value; analyzing an exercising posture of the user by detecting and classifying a pattern of the linear acceleration and the inherent angle; and generating exercising posture correction data based on the classified pattern.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems, and methods for tracking the location of an individual during a fitness activity are disclosed. A method of tracking a participant engaged in a fitness activity includes determining a location of the participant during the fitness activity based on data received at a portable fitness device used by the participant; determining a location of a spectator during the fitness activity based on data received at a mobile spectator device used by the spectator; from a server, sending an alert to a spectator at a spectator device during the fitness activity indicating that the participant is within a predetermined distance of the spectator; and sending an alert to the portable fitness device during the fitness activity indicating that the spectator is within a predetermined distance of the participant.

Abstract: A system and method for two swimmer wings designed using biomimicry and inspired by winged creatures/birds of flight as well as the fore flippers of a sea turtle. The swimmer wings are designed for users to traverse long distances instead of relying on personal watercrafts or boats to not only help sustain the environment by reducing the carbon footprint but also provide physical exercise to improve the user's well-being. The swimmer wings include a board, an arm guard which shields the user's forearm, and arm fasteners that secure the user's forearm between the board and the arm guard.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to golf balls having improved aerodynamic performance due, at least in part, to the selection of the plan shapes of the dimples thereon. In particular, the present invention is directed to a golf ball that includes at least a portion of its dimples having a plan shape defined by low frequency periodic functions along a closed simple path. In addition, the present invention provides methods for designing dimples having a plan shape defined by a low frequency periodic function along a closed simple path.

Abstract: In a golf ball having a core, a cover and at least one intermediate layer therebetween, the cover is formed of a rubber composition which includes a diene rubber, methacrylic acid, a metal oxide and an organic peroxide. The cover has a specific Poisson's ratio, Shore D hardness and thickness. At least one intermediate layer has a specific Shore D hardness and thickness. This golf ball, even with the use of a rubber cover, compares favorably with balls having conventional resin covers, both in that it can achieve a lower spin rate on shots with a driver (W #1) and thus has an excellent flight performance and also in that it can improve controllability in the short game.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball traveling a great flight distance and having a good shot feeling on long iron shots. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a core, at least one intermediate layer covering the core and a cover covering the intermediate layer, wherein the core is formed from a core rubber composition containing (a) a base rubber containing a polybutadiene, (b) an ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a metal salt thereof as a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator, and (d) a terpene-based resin, and a material hardness (Hm) of the intermediate layer is higher than a material hardness (Hc) of the cover, and the material hardness (Hc) of the cover is 50 or more in Shore D hardness.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball traveling a great flight distance and having a good shot feeling on long iron shots. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a core, at least one intermediate layer covering the core and a cover covering the intermediate layer, wherein the core is formed from a core rubber composition containing (a) a base rubber containing a polybutadiene, (b) an ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a metal salt thereof as a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator, and (d) a terpene-based resin, and a material hardness (Hm) of the intermediate layer is higher than a material hardness (Hc) of the cover, and the material hardness (Hc) of the cover is less than 50 in Shore D hardness.

Abstract: A golf ball having a center core, one or more envelope layer encasing the center core and one or more cover layer is provided wherein at least one envelope layer is formed of a rubber composition that includes (a) a diene rubber, (b) a tetrazine compound of a specific formula or a metal salt thereof, (c) an ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid metal salt and (d) an organic peroxide. A method for manufacturing the golf ball is also provided. The golf ball has a high rebound and durability. The manufacturing method, by eliminating the need to furnish equipment for a bonding step, lowers production costs and is industrially advantageous.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a golf ball traveling a great flight distance and having a good shot feeling and durability on driver shots. The present invention provides a golf ball comprising a core, at least one intermediate layer covering the core and a cover covering the intermediate layer, wherein the core is formed from a core rubber composition containing (a) a base rubber containing a polybutadiene, (b) an ?,?-unsaturated carboxylic acid having 3 to 8 carbon atoms and/or a metal salt thereof as a co-crosslinking agent, (c) a crosslinking initiator, and (d) a terpene-based resin, and a material hardness (Hm) of the intermediate layer and a material hardness (Hc) of the cover satisfy an equation of Hm?Hc.

Abstract: A golf ball includes a center, a mid layer, a cover and dimples. The cover has a Shore D hardness of 30-50. The golf ball has an amount of compressive deformation of 3.0-5.0 mm. The ball meets a mathematical formula (I): 0.80?((L1+L2)/2)?0.95??(I). L1 represents a ratio of a lift coefficient relative to a drag coefficient, the lift coefficient and the drag coefficient being measured under conditions of a Reynolds number of 1.290×105 and a spin rate of 2820 rpm. L2 represents a ratio of a lift coefficient relative to a drag coefficient, the lift coefficient and the drag coefficient being measured under conditions of a Reynolds number of 1.771×105 and a spin rate of 2940 rpm.

Abstract: Multi-piece golf balls having a solid core made of a foamed composition and a cover are provided. Preferably, the core is dual-layered having has a foam inner core (center) and surrounding thermoset or thermoplastic outer core layer. Preferably, a polyurethane foam composition containing mineral filler particulate, for example, nanoclay particles, is used to form the foam center. The concentration of clay particulate is preferably in a range of 0.1 to 60% by weight. The surrounding outer core layer may be made from non-foamed or foamed compositions. For example, polybutadiene rubber or highly neutralized olefin acid copolymers may be used in the outer core layer. The core layers have different hardness gradients and specific gravity values.

Abstract: A golf ball for amateur golfers exhibits excellent flight characteristics when hit by the average golfer and also has a good feel at impact that is both soft and solid. The golf ball includes a core, an intermediate layer and a cover, and has coefficient of restitution and compressive deformation relationships that satisfy specific conditions.

Abstract: In a golf ball having a core, an intermediate layer and a cover, the intermediate layer-encased sphere has a higher surface hardness than the ball. The core hardness profile in the ball is designed such that the core surface has a Shore C hardness value which is at least 27 higher than the Shore C hardness value at the core center, and the surface areas A to F calculated from hardness differences between positions located at specific distances in the core and differences between the specific distances satisfy a specific formula. This golf ball has an excellent flight performance when struck by skilled amateur golfers and professionals, and also has a good controllability on shots with an iron.

Abstract: An American-style football configured for direct contact with a user's hands. The football includes an inflatable prolate spheroidal shaped bladder, at least first, second, third and fourth cover panels collectively positioned over the bladder, and a lacing coupled to the first and fourth cover panels. The cover panels are formed of a natural leather and include a pebbled texture. Each of the first, second, third and fourth cover panels have an outer surface that defines cover panel outer surface areas. At least one of the cover panels includes a prep gauge portion and a non-prep gauge portion. The prep gauge portion extends over at least 5 percent, and less than 80 percent, of the outer surface area of the at least one of the cover panels. The non-prep gauge portion has a first color and the prep gauge portion has a second color that is darker than the first color.

Abstract: A ball body is covered by a plurality of skin members formed integrally of a soft material comprised of resin or rubber as a shaped structure having a front wall portion, a circumferential wall portion and a recess portion altogether. In the recess portion, between the ball body and each skin member, there is formed a hollow portion surrounded by the ball body and the respective skin member and separating the ball body and the front wall portion from each other. As a cushion portion and an air present portion are coexistent in each hollow portion, when a person grips a ball, the cushion portion is collapsed to increase the area of contact between the outer face of the ball and the pulp(s) of the finger(s), thus facilitating the person's gripping of the ball. The readily grippable state of the ball can be maintained for a long period of time.