Abstract: Carriers for flat objects such as sheet music are described which supplement the capacity of musical instrument cases having at least one handle. An adjustable hanger strap or straps are provided so that the carrier can be used on cases having different sizes, shapes and thicknesses. The case handle fits through one of a plurality of elongated slots on the hangar strap of the carrier with the carrier positioned against the case. The particular slot used depends on the shape and size of the case. The carrier has one or more compartments for storing articles placed therein, with the carrier draping over one of the sides while being transported about as a single unit by virtue of the case carry handle. Loops engaging the strap are also provided to provide stability.

Abstract: A floating platform that has a flat low profile for use by swimmers, divers, boaters, and those engaged in other activities on water. The platform is used alone or as a module in combination with other such floating platform modules; attaching the modules to form a larger floating platform. In a preferred embodiment, the surface of the platform is provided with several connection points enabling multi-point attachment to other vessels and stationary objects, anchor straps and towing straps, and apertures configured to accommodate beverage containers, coolers, chairs, umbrellas, retractable tops and the like. In another embodiment, a detachable cover is attached to the module, the cover forming the floating platform surface. A stable platform and low profile are achieved through use of stiffeners integrated within the platform surface.

Abstract: The inventive titanium alloy comprises, expressed in mass %: aluminium 4.0-6.0; vanadium 4.5-5.0; molybdenum 4.5-5.0; chromium 2.0-3.6; ferrum 0.2-0.5; the rest being titanium. An equivalent molybdenum content is determined as corresponding to Moequiv.≧13.8. The total aluminum and zirconium content does not exceed 7.2. The inventive method for heat treatment consists in heating to t&bgr;<>&agr;+&bgr;−(30-70)° C., conditioning during 2-5 hrs. at that temperature, air or water cooling and age-hardening at a temperature ranging from 540° C. to 600° C. during 8-16 hrs. Said alloy has a high volumetric deformability and is used for manufacturing massive large-sized forged and pressed pieces having a high strength level, satisfactory characteristics of plasticity and fracture toughness.

Abstract: A portable weighing system for a bed comprising a pair of scales placed under the legs or support members of a bed and a weight data collector unit. The scales are positioned directly below the ends of a bed and resting on the floor, and the legs or support members of the bed are then placed on the scales. Each scale is comprised of a beam shaped load cell, support bar, and support bar extensions. The load cell is shaped such that a section of the load cell rests on a horizontally disposed floor engaging base and the ends of the load cell are elevated above the base such that the ends do not rest on the base. The support bar is positioned above said load cell and attached to said load cell by a pair of threaded fasteners. The two support bar extensions are adjustably attached to each end of the support bar such that the width of said scale can be readily adjusted to accommodate beds of varying widths.

Abstract: An electric heater comprises a housing with an air inlet area, an air outlet area, an electric heating element disposed between the inlet area and outlet area, a fan that moves air through the heater, a first high-temperature limit switch mounted on the housing in the air inlet area, and a second high-temperature limit switch mounted on housing in the air outlet area, the first and second switches being electrically connected in series with each other and to the heating element so as to disconnect power to the heating element when either switch is tripped.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for internal examination of human and other subjects employing special catheters and biopsy wires, in combination with sonographic or fluoroscopic transducers, to provide unprecedented accuracy, economy, and efficiency in internal examination, diagnosis, biopsy, and surgical removal of lesions, tumors, polyps, etc. from bodies. In one aspect the invention provides an apparatus for use in combination with a sonographic transducer for examination and performing biopsies within a vaginal and uterine chamber of a human female and other bodies, whereby the apparatus is comprised of a substantially tubular catheter and any of a wide variety of biopsy devices adapted for disposition on or within the catheter. In another aspect, the invention provides a method of using sonographic or fluoroscopic imaging in combination with the apparatus to examine the cavities under study and to guide the apparatus during a biopsy procedure.

Abstract: A detachable weighing system for a bed comprising a plurality of weigh modules removably mounted upon legs or support members of a bed, a control unit, and a conduit for transmitting signals to and from the weigh modules, and control unit. The weigh module may be positioned directly below the lower end of the bed leg, resting on the floor. A unique structure is described which transmits vertical directed forces while minimizing off center of side directed forces so that an accurate weight is obtained.

Abstract: Titanium-based alloy contains, % by mass: aluminum 2.2 to 3.8; vanadium 4.5 to 5.9; moloybdenum 4.5 to 5.9; chromium 2.0 to 3.6; iron 0.2 to 0.8; zirconium 0.0l to 0.08; carbon 0.01 to 0.25; oxygen 0.03 to 0.25; titanium being the balance. The alloy possesses high ability to volume deformation in cold state (is easily rolled into rods), does not have tendency to form high-melting inclusions and is efficiently enforced with thermal treatment with obtaining of high level of strength and plasticity characteristics.

Abstract: An improved banner holder and method for exchangeable signs, flags, and other banners with extreme structural simplicity and a minimum moving parts. The banner holder comprises a support, at least one mounting members, an interchangeable brace to hold the banner, and an apparatus to automatically reduce wind loads on the banner. The banner is mounted on a brace. The brace engages one or more unique mounting members in such fashion as to make the brace, and the banner mounted on it, easily mountable, removable, and replaceable. The apparatus further protects the banner and banner holder from wind damage by automatically reducing the effective area of a banner in response to wind loading.

Abstract: A muscle group isolation device for weightlifters, worn when performing weightlifting exercises primarily for the triceps and biceps to assist the weightlifter in maintaining proper arm position while exercising. The muscle group isolation device includes an elongated flexible strap with a fastening means to adjustably connect the two ends of the strap together and form a continuous loop.

Abstract: A corrugated collapsible shipping container is disclosed which includes a rigid pallet having side panels, a back panel and a front door panel extending upwardly from the pallet, one side panel and the back panel formed from a sheet of corrugated material, and the other side panel and the door panel formed from a second sheet of corrugated material. Corrugated support beams extend across the top with a top sheet closing the container. The front door is self-hinged for access into the container.

Abstract: A kite control assembly permitting arch-type kites with four attachment points to be flown with two control lines and further including changeable length line elements which may be set to cause particular performance by the kite under given wind conditions and to make the kite optimally maneuverable. Cross bridles, changeable in length, may be used to alter the turning radius of the kite in various wind conditions. Line guides and line stops may be provided for rapidly de-powering the kite.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for enhancing dissolution of gases in liquids by ejecting the gas-liquid mixture through nozzles in a reaction vessel. The nozzles are pressurized, sized and directed to produce micro-fine gas bubbles in the liquid and to initiate rotational flow of the gas-liquid mixture in the reaction vessel. The small bubble size and rotational flow maximizes the time the gas is in contact with the liquid. The apparatus and method are used to increase the dissolution of ozone gas into aqueous solutions to increase the decomposition of aqueous-based organic compounds, precipitation of heavy metals, and destruct and/or deactivate enteric viruses, enteric bacteria, and protozoans. An alternative embodiment mixes the gas with the liquid prior to ejection through the nozzles.

Abstract: A novel and improved banner holder for displaying easily exchangeable signs, flags, and other banners with extreme structural simplicity and a minimum of moving parts. The banner holder comprises a support member, at least two mounting members, and an interchangeable brace adapted to hold the banner. The ends of the brace are adapted to engage the mounting members in such fashion as to make the brace, and the banner mounted on it, easily mountable, removable, and replaceable.

Abstract: The apparatus is comprised of a compressed air source which is connected by a gas conduit to a heating unit whose outlet is connected to a supersonic nozzle inlet in which a supersonic portion is connected by a conduit to a powder feeder. Compressed air of pressure Po from the compressed air source by the gas conduit is delivered to the heating unit to be heated to the required temperature. The heated air enters the supersonic nozzle in which it is accelerated to a speed of several hundred meters per second. The powdered material is passed from the powder feeder by the powder feeding conduit to the supersonic nozzle portion in which it is accelerated by the air flow at section of the nozzle from the injection point to the nozzle outlet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the size and appearance of luggage bins on aircraft in which a shelf extension is attached to the front lip of the shelf and supported by brackets mounted to the side bulkheads of the bin. A curved profile door having rearwardly disposed webs at each end is pivotally mounted at the top of the bin and is configured to close against the front edges of the bin side bulkheads and the upper front surface of the bin shelf extension. Trim is provided to close the gap between adjacent shelf extensions and to cover the portion of shelf brackets extending beyond the front edges of the side bulkheads.

Abstract: A flush mounted valve assembly for releasably coupling a tubular member to the valve assembly by simple, one-handed operation. The tubular member, one end of which may be connected to a hose, is inserted into the coupler to open the valve. Helical grooves with a detent section on the tubular member engage matching nibs on the coupler, allowing the tubular member to be locked into place on insertion and rotation. Insertion of the tubular member opens a valve between the valve housing and the coupler member, permitting water from the pressurized water source to flow through the tubular member. O-rings are provided on the tubular member that engage the coupler prior to the opening of the valve, thereby preventing leakage around the tubular member. The valve housing and coupling are removably connected to each other, allowing easy access to the valve for periodic maintenance and alignment with the water source.