Abstract: An improved piston engine includes a rocker arm and a connecting link between the piston rod and the crankshaft to allow its motion to be altered from that of the classic piston engine in order to overcome inherent limitations of the latter and realize greater efficiency. By inserting these two components between the end of a rigidly attached piston rod and a conventional crankshaft, the motion of the piston with respect to the crankshaft can be altered in important ways. For example, the dwell at top dead center can be increased relative to dwell at bottom dead center to the point where they are equal or in fact where dwell at top dead center is greater. Furthermore, because the piston rod is not directly connected to the crankshaft, ignition of the fuel can be timed to occur before top dead center so that pressure is maximized at top dead center in order to improve efficiency. Furthermore, the piston stroke can be shortened and slowed by the geometry of the rocker arm, thus increasing engine life.

Abstract: A method and apparatus providing improved Christmas tree lights. A strand of Christmas tree lights is encapsulated in a thin translucent film of polymer.

Abstract: A tenter clip has a jaw pivot shaft having a pair of molded bearing surfaces of superior strength, wear resistance and stability under high temperature operating conditions. The method for manufacture of the jaw pivot shaft includes knurling recesses formed in the shaft prior to applying plastic bearing material to the recesses by injection molding and finishing machining the pin by centerless grinding.

Abstract: A one piece foldable eating utensil having a food holding section and a handle with a pair of reduced thickness portions forming flexible hinges for folding into a packaged position for accompanying a food product and a useable position for consuming the food product.