Abstract: A multi-purpose bag is disclosed which includes an inflatable member integrated therewith such that the bag may be used as both a carrying device and a cushioning device. The bag is provided a pocket on at least one side thereof which pocket is configured to removably hold the inflatable member. The inflatable member is useful as a pillow both when held inside of the pocket and when attached to a chair or other device outside of the pocket. A receptacle configured to hold a beverage container is optionally provided adjacent the pocket enabling easy access by the bag user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for guiding a sail while it is being hoisted on a sail-powered marine vessel are disclosed. The apparatus is a pre-feeder or feeder for use on a forestay, mast or foremast; the apparatus having two oppositely-facing members that are movable in relationship to each other thereby forming an adjustable opening for receiving and partially encircling the luff portion of a sail. The two members are movable about a hinge and a locking mechanism prevents the members from separating inadvertently. For use with a forestay, the pre-feeder is attached near the bow of the boat or directly to the forestay below the grooved track on the forestay and helps guide a the luff portion of a jib sail into the grooved track. The method of using the pre-feeder includes gripping the two members and pulling them apart, inserting the luff, closing the two members, and pulling on a halyard attached to the sail.

Abstract: A group of connecting homes, commercial and/or not-for-profit buildings that serve to enclose a self-sustaining wildlife habitat sanctuary, specifically targeting the natural environment of endangered species, where appropriate. The homes serve as an impenetrable cage wall, much like the walls of a mountain valley, preventing animals from entering or exiting the habitat, with the possible exception of migrating birds and fish. On one side of the homes there is a self-sustaining habitat and on the other side of the homes there is modern civilization. The walls of the homes facing the habitat may have shatterproof glass windows or a caged terrace, allowing inhabitants of the building to safely observe the enclosed habitat, and human access to the habitat may be restricted to observation through windows, observation from the caged terrace, or hikes through caged walking paths.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel parallel hybrid transmission that transmits torque from two power sources to the drive wheels of a vehicle. The transmission functions with a single heat engine and a single electric motor/generator. Through the use of a compound planetary gear train and four automatically controlled clutches, the transmission is able to (i) sum torque from the two power sources to drive the vehicle; (ii) split torque from the heat engine to drive the vehicle and charge the batteries; (iii) transmit torque individually from either of the two power sources; and (iv) operate as a one- or two-degree-of-freedom mechanism. The configuration of clutches and the compound planetary gear train enable thirteen modes of operation, namely, one motor-only mode, three combined motor and engine modes, one continuous variable transmission/charging mode, four engine-only modes, and four regenerative braking modes.

Abstract: A process for reclaiming sulfur-cured, vulcanized rubber by combining finely ground scrap vulcanized rubber within a specialized, twin-screw extruder capable of providing strong shearing and just-on-time mixing; adding a reclaiming agent to the extruder; and masticating the rubber scrap and reclaiming agent within the extruder until the rubber scrap is devulcanized. The present invention also discloses a unique composition of reclaiming agent, which preferably includes the following compounds: accelerators TBBS, ZMBT, MBT, and TMTM; activators zinc oxide and stearic acid; and zinc salts of fatty acids and sulfur. The reclaimed rubber is suitable for use in producing high-grade, rubber products without adding a binder, or for combining with fresh rubber compounds to produce high-specification rubber products.

Abstract: Disclosed are a system and a method for cleaning a trash bin. In a preferred embodiment, the system includes nozzles coupled to lifting means. The nozzles are aimed at the inside of the trash bin. The method includes the steps of lifting the trash bin, inverting it to empty its contents, spraying the inside of the trash bin, and returning the trash bin to the ground. An additional step may include spraying the trash bin when it is returned to the ground.

Abstract: An electromagnetic vibratory microplate shaker is disclosed of simplified design and improved mixing capability over previously known microplate shaker devices, comprising an electromagnetic drive assembly mounted within a rigid base and operatively connected to a microplate support tray. The support tray is in turn supported from below by a plurality of leaf springs which are tilted approximately 20° from vertical. During operation, an electromagnet is rapidly energized and de-energized causing an armature of the drive assembly to be pulled in and released up to 7,200 times per minute, in turn imparting a reciprocating vibration to the support platform and the microplates held thereon.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fastening system for panels whose edges are provided complementary holding profiles which match one another in such a manner that further panels can be fastened to the free edges of a previously placed panel. The holding profiles of at least the long edges are configured as complementary positive-fit profiles, one of the profiles having a projection with a convex bottom edge, and the other profile having a recess with a concave bottom edge, such that the profiles may be interconnected by a pivoting motion. Such complementary design of the profiles enables the positive-fit profiles of the long edges of two panels to form a common joint which, when the panels are laid, enables bidirectional pivoting of the panels with respect to one another about a pivot axis that is parallel to the joined long edges of the panels.

Abstract: A scoring system is disclosed which allows for safe, accurate scoring during simulated combat situations. The scoring system includes a simulated striking apparatus having a marking means to safely deliver an erasable marking agent when the striking apparatus contacts an opponent. The striking sections of the apparatus are buffered by a soft, resilient material to reduce the impact from a striking type blow. The scoring system further includes an eraser and a body covering allowing marks from the striking apparatus to be easily seen and readily erased.

Abstract: A dispensing valve is disclosed which requires only a minimal force exerted on the valve actuator to maintain the valve in an open position. A resilient valve actuator having the characteristics of a nonlinear spring is provided at an actuator end of the valve body and operatively connected to a plunger, with the opposite end of the plunger mounting a resilient valve seal which serves to open and close a plurality of port openings. The valve is configured so as to allow it to be sterilized through high levels of radiation and through high temperature steam and chemical sterilization processes without degrading the valve structure or operation.

Abstract: A method for combusting fuel in an engine involving decreasing a first volume of a gas to a second volume while increasing a pressure and a temperature thereof, then increasing the second volume to a third volume at a constant pressure while adding heat until a predetermined temperature is obtained, and finally increasing the third volume to a fourth volume while adding more heat and decreasing the pressure thereof at the predetermined temperature. Also disclosed is a compound engine including an limited temperature cycle engine which produces exhaust that drives a Lenoir cycle apparatus.