Abstract: A non-round unitary filter cartridge according to the present invention is provided having a unitary structure with pleated filter media formed securely about a perforated interior core. Opposite ends of the pleated filter media and perforated core are integrally formed with a bottom end cap and a flexible upper collar. The flexible upper collar is formed of a flexible molding compound which is deformable to pass through an opening in a tube sheet which retains the filter cartridge. The perforated core is oblong in configuration, having first and second parallel major side surfaces and first and second rounded outer ends. The flexible collar is elliptical in cross-section and has an outwardly facing groove located at the top of the barrel portion for sealably receiving a periphery of the tube sheet aperture.

Abstract: A preformed unitary pellet formed from an appropriate propellant for use in muzzle loading firearms. Particular formulations, dimensions, densities, and other parameters for specific applications are set forth. A method of manufacture is also included.

Abstract: A dish washing machine having upper and lower spray assemblies with separate spray arms and separate water supplies for washing and rinsing dishware. A spray base for each spray assembly segregates recycled wash water from clean incoming rinse water. A hollow drum mounted to each manifold has side discharge openings. A ball bearing assembly mounts the wash spray arms for rotation about the drums. A conduit for the rinse water extends through each drum and connects with a spindle on which the rinse spray arms are mounted for rotation. The upper and lower spray arm assemblies are interchangeable. The bearing assembly is uniquely constructed such that it is automatically flushed with clean rinse water during each cycle of operation.

Abstract: A vehicle rolling shutter system with magnetic door-ajar and compartment light switch. In combination with a vehicle, the rolling shutter system has a roller shutter, constructed of a number of interconnected links, for movement along guide rails positioned at opposing sides of an access opening to a cargo compartment of the vehicle. A lamp, for illuminating the cargo compartment, is positioned within the cargo compartment. An indicator lamp is positioned on a dashboard of the vehicle. The roller shutter has a lift bar which is mounted by mounting members to a lower portion of the roller shutter. The lift bar engages with strike blocks, positioned at opposing sides of the access opening to the cargo compartment, for retaining the roller shutter in a closed position. At least one of the strike blocks contains a magnetic switch element connected to the lamps.

Abstract: A two colored baseball or softball for practice. One half of the outer surface is a dark color and one half is light to make the ball more difficult to see than a standard ball. When used for practice, the ball requires players to concentrate intensely in order to hit or field it successfully because of the difficulty of seeing it clearly. During games when a light colored ball is used, it is much more visible and players are able to hit and field it better because they are used to practicing with the two colored practice ball.

Abstract: An air conditioning unit is provided with a high capacity filtration system for removing pollutants from supply air, typically return air which has been recirculated from the conditioned area. A filter bypass passage and suitable flow control devices are provided so that supply air, typically fresh outdoor air, may be routed around the filtration system when minimal or no filtration is required. An air quality detector samples the air quality and positions the flow control devices to effect the most cost efficient operation of the air handling unit under the given operating conditions.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for varying an electrically variable current limiting reactor (VICLR) ( 16) are provided in cooperation with an electrostatic precipitator automatic voltage control system. The inductance of VICLR (16) is varied by altering the DC current in control winding (66) of VICLR (16). A power source (10) connects serially to an inverse parallel SCR1 and SCR2, to VICLR (16), and to a TR set comprising a transformer (18) and rectifier (20) which supply power to precipitator (22). System electrical characteristics on both sides of the TR set are monitored. Computer (40) uses these monitored values to continuously calculate form factor and fractional conduction values. Step-down transformer (60) is connected to solid state relay (62) which is in turn connected to full wave bridge rectifier (64). Rectifier (64) is connected to control winding (66) of VICLR (16). Solid state relay (62) is also connected to computer (40).

Abstract: A boat bumper for protecting a boat from damage upon impacting a mooring or the like is disclosed. The bumper comprises a plate extending over a portion of the hull of the boat. Padding is positioned on the plate for separating the plate from the hull of the boat. The plate is connected to the boat so as to be displaceable with respect to the boat during an impact, and yet not be removed therefrom. A pair of suction cups connect the plate to the boat, the stem of the first suction cup riding in an elongate slot in the plate, and the second connected to the plate via a resilient cord.

Abstract: A hanging shoe rack for supporting shoes in an angular manner. A pair of side frame members having an elongate body section. A plurality of support arms project outwardly and downwardly from each main body section. Pairs of retaining bars are positioned between said frame members and are aligned in a plane forming an acute angle with respect to vertical, to thereby support thereon shoes in an angular manner, with the shoes directed downwardly toward a vertical surface upon which the shoe rack is placed. The support arms, upon opposite side frames, traverse side sections of the shoes to form a barrier against lateral movement of the shoes. Unique socket structure, into which the retaining bars are positioned, permit easy assembly of the shoe rack. Additionally, each side frame member includes unique attachment structure, upon upper and lower ends thereof, so that multiple shoe racks of the present invention may be vertically suspended one from another.

Abstract: A concrete saw is provided having an engine aligned along a longitudinal axis of the saw frame to minimize the width of the saw and provide a more balanced system. A clutch assembly is attached to a forward end of the engine to disengage the saw blade without stopping the engine. A right angle gear box is provided proximate the driven side of the clutch assembly to transfer driving rotational forces from the engine to a transversely aligned driven shaft. The driven shaft includes drive pulleys mounted upon opposite ends thereof, which are aligned with driven pulleys mounted upon opposite ends of a blade support shaft and linked to one another via multiple belts. This alignment evenly balances the load transfer while facilitating the use of vibration isolators between the engine, gear box and frame. A hydraulically controlled depth stop mechanism is included for setting a maximum cut depth. The engine speed is controlled by an electronic governor.

Abstract: A leak detection system which operates at relatively high pressures and senses relatively large pressure drops to monitor for leakage in fuel product lines such as those used for dispensing of fuel at gasoline service stations. Leakage tests of various degrees of precision are carried out, and the possible effects of thermally induced expansion and contraction are taken into account. The system also checks for faulty pressure sensors and dry tank conditions. Leak indications are confirmed by a time delay and retesting before a leak alarm is given.

Abstract: A combined cutting blade and heat bar for use with a vacuum packaging device having a lid for sealing over the cavity of a base is disclosed. The cutting blade and heat bar are connected to one another and movable via a single actuating mechanism mounted to the lid. In use, in one step the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar unheated and the cutting element cuts slits in the bag for evacuation of the air. After air evacuation, the combined mechanism is lowered with the heat bar heated, melting the bag closed behind the slitted area of the bag.

Abstract: A brush chipping machine having an in-line, direct drive connection between the engine drive shaft and the rotor shaft which carries the chipping mechanism. The direct drive system allows the engine and chipping mechanism to be arranged side by side for a more compact configuration of the equipment. Belt drives and the associated maintenance and safety problems are avoided. The feed table and feed chute through which brush is fed to the chipper mechanism can be located close to the curb side of the machine for enhanced convenience and safety.

Abstract: A sludge collector for removing sludge from the bottom of a tank for clarifying wastewater includes an elongate curved housing placed on the bottom of the tank, with the focus of the curve being the center of the floor, the housing defining an interior cavity, and a plurality of relatively small inlets spaced along the length of the housing for the introduction of sludge from the sludge blanket. The inlets are disposed adjacent the floor to remove the most concentrated sludge therefrom. The cross-sectional area of the housing increases from the ends to the midpoint, where an outlet pipe removes the sludge from the cavity under positive hydraulic pressure and applied negative pressure. The sludge collector is designed for most efficient use with spiral or curved scraper blades in a cylindrical clarifying tank.