Abstract: A method for producing a non-woven polymeric fabric web, such as a spunbond web, having filaments of 0.1 to 5 denier with equivalent production rates is provided. A plurality of continuous polymeric filaments is extruded from an extruder and attenuated by a drawing unit that includes a longitudinal elongated slot strategically positioned at an optimum distance very close to the spinneret. A web forming table is positioned below the drawing unit for collecting the filaments and forming the filaments into a non-woven fabric web. At startup, nominal throughput and air pressure is used. Gradually, throughput is greatly increased by simultaneously increasing air pressure while reducing the distance between the spinneret and the drawing unit. Coordinating the adjustment of the throughput with air pressure and distance reduction of the spinneret and the drawing unit produces the finest filaments at equivalent production or the same filament size at the highest production rate and lowest cost.

Abstract: A system and process for configuration and optimization of an electronic device is provided wherein a user is presented with, and prioritizes, device specific desired outcomes, whereafter a computer subroutine prioritizes the desired outcomes and corresponding predictive metrics and device features resulting in a set of implementation commands which are then transmitted to the device which automatically configures customizable features accordingly such that the device is customized based on the user's prioritized desired outcomes.

Abstract: A sound absorbing hollow core panel of structural material based on Helmholtz resonator properties consisting of two exterior skins connected by spacers or structural connections and bounded by perimeter skins or structural connections with internal cavity or cavities that communicate with the exterior sound field through a plurality of orifices in one or both exterior skins as well as the perimeter of the panel and that have a plurality of Helmoltz resonators of different shapes and sizes tuned to specific frequencies that control the sound absorption characteristics of the hollow core panel. The internal cavity or cavities are defined by external skins and perimeters as well as internal structural elements acting as interior dividers, interior sub-volumes and perimeter structures, each of which may contain a plurality of orifices for sound communication forming a sequence of first order Helmholtz acoustical resonators with respective natural frequencies for sound absorption.

Abstract: A data card, such as a credit or debit card, having first and second sides, wherein the first side includes data card information stored on a magnetic strip and embodied in embossed alpha-numeric indicia, and the second side includes a surface having a series of optically related image lines thereon, and an optically transparent layer attached thereto and forming a lenticular lens, the optically transparent layer and optically related image lines forming a lenticular optical system capable of alternately displaying images.

Abstract: An air filter kit for residential and light commercial air filtration applications including a user assembled, dimensionally adjustable, air filter frame assembly capable of telescopic adjustment of both length and width. Telescopic adjustment is facilitated by a plurality of slidably engaged frame members which together form an adjustable peripheral filter frame defining a recessed channel for receiving a quantity of filter media therein. Adjustment of the frame members is further facilitated by the use of a lubricating substance such as a friction reducing synthetic tape between the members. A quantity of spongy filter media is secured cut to size and secured within the recessed channel by a quantity of hook material projecting into the filter media. A perimeter gasket anchors the frame dimensions while providing a positive seal between the frame and a filter track.

Abstract: A composition of matter and the method of making that provides a low pH acidic composition that is useful for destroying microorganisms that are undesirable and useful for destroying or reducing melanoma on human skin. The composition and method include sulfuric acid combined with distilled water and ammonium sulfate under at least 15 psi pressure in a pressurized container, all of which is heated to around 1200.degree. F. for at least 3 hours. The final cooled mixture is stabilized with 10 percent of the original mixture. The resultant composition is useful for preserving food, such as fresh fish, and for skin treatment of melanoma.

Abstract: A clasp mechanism that incorporates an extensible feature for ease of use is provided, which can be used on jewelry and other items. Instead of completely separating the ends of the attached jewelry or other item and then having to reconnect a clasp, the clasp mechanism separates and spreads apart by an interconnected extensible segment. The clasp can be attached to opposing ends of nearly any jewelry item, such as a bracelet, by known techniques such as soldering or bonding. The clasp incorporates an extensible segment such that when connected to opposing ends of a bracelet for example, the bracelet expands at the clasp mechanism to fit over a hand or foot and then contracts to securely fit at the wrist or ankle. The clasp mechanism does not require disconnecting and reconnecting when placing the jewelry piece onto one's person.

Abstract: A dispensing applicator for solids and semi-solids is provided that includes a flexible strap and internal guide to actuate a movable holding container within an openable housing, that includes tactile and audible position detent signals to prevent the strap and the solid or semi-solid from inadvertent and accidental movement, and to signal that the supply of solid or semi-solid is nearly exhausted. The openable housing has an opening at one end and a longitudinal slot. The flexible strap is connected at a first end to the solid and semi-solid product holding container, and at the second end to a closure member shaped to tightly fit the open end of the housing The strap fits closely within a space between the internal guide and the housing. The strap includes a non-slip thumb piece that extends to the exterior of the housing through the longitudinal slot.

Abstract: A portable showering cabinet for use by non-ambulatory, aged, or other persons unable to use conventional showering and hygienic home care facilities, particularly useful for a private home, hospitality industry, residential schools, general and specialized hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and bedside care in a nursing home. The showering cabinet system provides daily hygienic care for disabled, with or without minimal assistance from a caregiver, eliminating the need for a caregiver to help a disabled person enter a shower stall and eliminating the need for a caregiver to perform the showering of the individual. The portable cabinet includes a water supply system that attaches to existing hot and cold water supply cabinets and a manually movable cabinet that has casters, allowing it to be moved easily and quickly along a floor surface to a bedside, and an improved access auxiliary seat to insure safe entrance by the patient into and out of the enclosure from a seated position on the outside of the cabinet.

Abstract: A device, for use in a washing machine filled with water for cleaning surfaces without the use of detergent, comprising a water permeable housing containing a plurality of cation exchange resin beads, a quantity of tourmaline, a quantity of metal alloy such as copper micro-fibre strands, and a quantity of ferromagnetic material. The materials contained within the housing are in fluid communication with the laundry water and function to clean laundry by substantially reducing the quantity of dissolved solids in the water, neutralizing bacteria, germs and algae, and attracting positively charged particles from soiled laundry articles.

Abstract: An ergonomic work station is disclosed for relative quick removal and conversion of golf shoes from metal spikes to non-metal spikes. The work station includes a frame member having an adjustable support member attached thereto, with one or more shoe holders associated with the support member for maintaining the golf shoes in an upside down (sole up) position. A push to start electric screwdriver or drill member, having spike changing bits, is hung and balanced from the top of the frame member. Preferably, the screwdriver or drill member is allowed to slide along the top of the frame member in order to be adjacent the shoe holder which is maintaining the shoe to have its spikes removed or converted. The screwdriver or drill member is balanced from the top of the frame such that the individual utilizing the screwdriver or drill is not required to exert any stress to maintain the screwdriver or drill in its proper position.

Abstract: A chemical dispensing device comprising a dissolvable, multi-layered, laundry tablet for insertion in a washing machine at the initiation of the laundry washing process. The laundry tablet includes a dissolvable first or outer layer which includes an alkaline substance for raising the pH level of the wash water upon dissolving, and a dissolvable second or inner layer which includes an acidic substance for subsequently lowering or neutralizing the pH level of the wash water. The laundry tablet thus provides an effective device for automatically varying the pH level of the laundry wash water, which automatic variation is effected by the single step of depositing the tablet in the laundry wash water at the initiation of the wash cycle.

Abstract: A device and method for use with an automatic laundry dryer for conditioning laundry articles during the drying cycle. The device comprises a carrier impregnated with microencapsulated fluid, for use with an automatic laundry dryer for dispensing said fluid during the drying cycle thereby conditioning laundry articles. In the preferred embodiment, a polyurethane foam carrier is impregnated with a microencapsulated active agent fluid for rendering the laundry articles substantially static-free and/or for dispensing fragrance to provide the articles with a desirable scent.

Abstract: A process for manufacturing diamond cut rope chain jewelry from hollow rings of gold material or other precious metal or alloy. The process provides for the formation of hollow rope jewelry having faceted surfaces formed by a diamond cut process. The diamond cut process is facilitated by positioning the chain on the drum of a diamond cut lathe using a tool having a convex head of polished steel that is precisely positioned for urging the chain into position. The tensile strength of the chain is increased by a thermal tempering process to achieve the required tensile strength for resistance to breakage.

Abstract: Dental hygiene filament, for use as dental floss or as bristles for a tooth brush for flossing and/or brushing teeth, comprising an elongated body defining an exterior surface having an abrasive, granular substance, such as pumice, uniformly distributed thereon. The granular material is firmly attached to the filament so that, when used as dental floss, pulling on the ends of the floss between the teeth allows for aggressive and efficient removal of plaque while moving the dental floss across the surface, as recommended by dentists. In addition, the irregular surface area acts to cause additional frictional interaction between the filament's granular material and the tooth surface, quickly and efficiently removing the plaque and providing a greater surface area for removing plaque. Each filament embodiment may include a microbicide for preventing bacterial growth.

Abstract: An improved antenna for use with a hand-held, portable cellular telephone in the 800 to 900 megacycle range for greatly increasing the range and signal efficiency of transmission and receipt, eliminating dead spots, and for reducing or eliminating ground radiation on the user while the device is being used, wherein the antenna includes matched input impedance, a resonance circuit of capacitance and inductance, and a high impedance connected to the end of the antenna radiating element. The high impedance allows the device to be voltage-fed from a single element, altering the radiation pattern both for transmission and receipt.

Abstract: A computer program product for use with a computer system for providing a process for strategy evaluation and optimization, said computer program product comprising a computer-readable medium of instructions for directing a computer to evaluate data for optimizing strategic options including: (1) data storage means for storing data relating to specific desired outcomes relating to a specific process for an identified customer set; (2) said data storage means further storing data relating to metrics which predict the satisfaction of said desired outcomes; (3) data processing means including computer program means for quantifying the degree to which each of said metrics predict satisfaction of each of said customer desired outcomes; (4) input means for defining strategic options, each of said strategic options designed to satisfy said customer desired outcomes; (5) data processing means including computer program means for quantifying the degree to which each of said strategic options satisfy said customer desi