Abstract: The present invention is directed to novel watercraft lift assemblies comprising, in certain embodiments, single motor and dual motor/winch assemblies secured to the dock-side portion of the support structure. The present invention does not require the use of top frames for carrying cable shafts necessary to lift the frame supporting the watercraft.

Abstract: Novel devices and methods for covering underground sprinkler heads installed on golf courses and other sports fields are described. The invention, in certain aspects, comprises the use of mats for covering a sprinkler head lid and/or the above-ground or ground level portion of the underground casing for housing the sprinkler head assembly. The mats are formed of a shock absorbing material such that when a golf ball, for example, strikes the mat(s), the ball does not rebound away as severely compared to striking the rigid lid and/or above-ground casing portion directly (i.e. without the mat covering). Other embodiments including fabricating the sprinkler head lid and/or above-ground casing portions of the same shock-absorbing material.

Abstract: Security vault panels and their method of manufacture are disclosed. Specifically, the invention comprises improved panels for manufacturing security vaults, with each panel comprising (a) a rectangular metal mold having opposing metal end caps and opposing metal side rails and (b) a concrete slab disposed within the rectangular mold and permanently affixed thereto, the concrete slab having an exterior face and an interior face substantially uncovered by the mold. At least one of the metal side rails is configured to engage a complementarily configured metal side rail of an adjacent panel. Three different configurations of metal side rails are disclosed for fabricating panels for subsequent installation as part of a wall, floor, or roof of the security vault.

Abstract: A hat clip comprising two hingably secured jaws, a magnet, and a golf ball marker is described. The hat clip may be secured to the inner hat band of a golf cap, hat, or visor and is designed such that a golf ball marker may be magnetically maintained on the outside of the hat while the jaws of the hat clip are hidden from view.

Abstract: An algaecide formulated in a concentrated, solid composition form for subsequent dissolution in water is disclosed. The algaecide is designed to remove algae from a variety of interior and exterior surfaces. The preferred algaecide compositions chlorinated isocyanurates, such as sodium dichloro-s-triazinetrione, alkali hydroxides selected from the group consisting of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, calcium hydroxide, and lithium hydroxide; metal sulfates selected from the group consisting of copper sulfate, zinc sulfate, and aluminum sulfate; and a buffer.

Abstract: Novel packers for repairing ruptures in straight-line conduit systems as well as lateral conduit lines are described and illustrated herein.

Abstract: A severe braking warning system for a vehicle is described wherein the system is designed to measure a vehicle's rate of motion and, upon deceleration of the vehicle, affect the vehicle's brake light circuit by switching it on and off at a pulse rate proportional to the severity of deceleration. The system comprises an accelerometer, a microprocessor (either an integrated unit or the vehicle's existing unit), transistor, and a switch in communication with the vehicle's existing brake light circuit. The inventive brake light warning system provides a supplemental indication to other vehicles traveling behind of the rate of braking, thereby reducing the possibility of rear-end collisions.

Abstract: A machine capable of generating and dispensing potable water is disclosed. Novel features of the inventive machine include continuous water filtration, a durable primary outer housing unit designed to minimize damage during transportation and handling, and a hot gas injection system designed to allow the generation of water from ambient air at temperatures as low as 50° F.

Abstract: An improved reverse-cycle heat pump system is disclosed that comprises components to improve the efficiency of the system in the cooling mode. Specifically, the invention incorporates a conduit assembly for carrying refrigerant from one heat exchanger to the other heat exchanger, wherein the heat exchangers are configured to function interchangeably as a condenser and evaporator, depending upon whether the system is operating in cooling mode or heating mode. The conduit assembly includes a coiled section of tubing disposed near the heat exchanger that functions as an evaporator in cooling mode. This coiled section functions as a reservoir for collecting excess refrigerant liquid from the “evaporator” during operation of the system in the cooling mode. Consequently, in cooling mode, heat dissipation via the condenser is thereby increased since less refrigerant liquid is contained therein, resulting in improved cooling of the conditioned area or substance (i.e.

Abstract: Novel engine fuels and engine fuel additives comprising terpenes, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and lower alcohols are disclosed.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of seashore paspalum grass is disclosed. The ‘SGX-6’ variety is characterized by its fine texture when closely mown and its superior tolerance to salt, drought, and soil hypoxic conditions.

Abstract: A novel seashore paspalum cultivar (Paspalum vaginatum) is disclosed. The ‘SFX-14’ cultivar is characterized by having a fine texture when closely mown, superior tolerance to salt, drought, and soil hypoxic conditions.

Abstract: A novel seashore paspalum cultivar (Paspalum vaginatum) is disclosed. The ‘SDX-1’ cultivar is characterized by having a fine texture, greater sod strength, increased rooting, improved color, improved density, and greater salinity tolerance. The cultivar is particularly well suited for golf courses, grass tennis lawns, lawn bowls, lawns, and athletic fields.

Abstract: A novel seashore dropseed (Sporobolus virginicus) cultivar (‘BT-l’) is disclosed. The ‘BT-1’ cultivar is characterized by enhanced turf quality under mown and high traffic stress conditions; improved, darker green leaf color; lower growth habit; denser, more tightly knit sod; low mow height tolerance; finer-textured leaf blades; and increased saline and drought tolerance.