Abstract: Method and apparatus for central inventory control as particularly adapted for retail vending wherein all merchandise is made to carry a coded identifier ticket characteristic of the product. Upon sale of the product the identifier ticket may be removed and at periodic times all accrued identifier tickets can be processed through a label sorter and reader to compile data for input to a central computer which then provides various forms of inventory readout to the user entity. More particularly, the invention utilizes a form of identifier ticket adapted for gummed adhesion and tear-off from the product, and the removed identifier ticket is then processed in a sorting and reading apparatus to provide recorded as well as instantaneous output for input to an associated computer or other peripheral equipment.

Abstract: Apparatus for selected audio-visual reproduction upon check actuation that consists of a viewing carrel providing comfort and privacy, and having in combination therewith, television playback apparatus, program selection control and money validator for enabling playback of a selected program. The television reproducing apparatus includes a video tape playback system functioning in coaction with a color television receiver as controlled by the money validator and playback selection control.

Abstract: An undergarment for coactive usage with the standard form of baseball uniform which unitarily includes the slide pads, supporter and cup structure, undersocks and ankle socks. The undergarment is unitarily formed to include all accessory lower body devices so that the garment can be donned in singular operation.

Abstract: Improvements in trailer hitch apparatus of the type used in heavy hauling, particularly for the transport of mobile home structures. The apparatus includes hydraulically elongatable tongue structure with height adjustable connector ball assembly as supported from the main rear truck frame structure; the apparatus is utilized in combination with a leaf-coil rear wheel spring structure that provides primary truck suspension. The trailer hitch is operable to support its towed structure in any of the open or closed elongated positions in order to better enable certain vehicle maneuvers, achieve optimum handling in emergency situations, and provide a more rugged, yet smoother riding connection to the towing vehicle.

Abstract: Lighting apparatus for architectural usage wherein the lighting structure can be permanently placed in predetermined disposition to render relatively trouble-free and long service life. The apparatus consists of a tubular lighting element, which can be fabricated in any desired length of whatever the selected wattage rating, that is utilized in combination with a seating structure that may be permanently secured in or about the architectural structure utilizing such lighting design. The lighting element consists of a clear tube containing a selected plurality of low wattage light bulbs as used in combination with a retaining structure which is adapted for captive retention within a molded cementitious structure of the like, while defining a groove or insert portion for selective retention of the lighting element thereby to focus or direct light at selected angles to illuminate the desired surface or area.

Abstract: An improved unitary fin structure for installation on the filter element of an air pre-cleaner and final filter for an internal combustion engine or the like. The improved fin structure includes self-biased lock tab elements forming an integral part thereof for securing the fin structure to a conventional air filter element while providing means for the non-destructive removal thereof from the filter element. An alternate embodiment of the fin structure of the present invention provides for the manufacture of the fin structure in a substantially flat strip with coupling means on the opposite ends thereof for assembling the strip into a substantially cylindrical configuration at the time of installation on the filter element. Various forms of coupling means for engaging the opposite ends of the strip are also disclosed.

Abstract: Apparatus for tracking vehicle position relative to a starting point and for providing continual display of vehicle position. The apparatus includes a gyroscope and odometer for generating respective direction and distance electrical signals which are then converted to digital signals for control of a video monitor. An area map overlay may be included on the face of the monitor; and, the position indication signals may be continually transmitted to a selected central location in order to provide reference indication as to a particular vehicle.

Abstract: A method for providing grain drying and storage utilizing an earth cavity of designated planar construction as covered by light transmitting housing assembly; the structure consisting of an earth cavity having inverted tetrahedral characteristic which is closed over by a light transmitting housing, the interior of the storage volume includes a plurality of conveyor means for circulating the fungible material placed therein as well as means for controlling the interior heat and auxiliary heat flow.

Abstract: Apparatus for loading objects, particularly large cylindrical hay bales upon a motor truck. The bale loader includes a frame which is comprised of a first frame section which is to be semipermanently mounted upon the motor truck, and a demountable second frame section to which the remainder of the bale loader apparatus is attached. To this demountable frame section is attached a boom which is operated by means of a winch and winch line. The boom is in turn connected to a standard tractor three point bale fork. This apparatus in combination with a standard motor truck can be used to lift a large cylindrical hay bale from the ground to a traveling position above the bed of the motor truck, then transport the bale to another location and lower the bale to the ground. In an alternative embodiment of the invention the bale fork is replaced by a lifting boom to create a small crane for lifting and transporting miscellaneous items.

Abstract: A method for obtaining integral data of the dilution curve obtained when an indicator is injected into a closed system containing a circulating fluid, and as particularly adapted for utilization in blood flow analysis computers. The apparatus is constructed to analyze the characteristic concentration curve in an abbreviated time period to establish the full integral value of the curve. Concentration curve input is integrated through circuitry which detects relative curve change through a Phase I for subsequent summation with a data value summation through a selected portion of the exponential decay curve, that portion identified as Phase II, thereby to predict the remainder of the curve area and provide data output of an integral value for the entire concentration curve above a designated zero or set point level.

Abstract: A system for xerographic processing of a radiation responsive photoreceptor plate to produce an output printout of radiated subject matter, and thereafter to neutralize and store the photoreceptor plate in readiness for a next successive X-ray irradiation. The system utilizes a photoreceptor plate of charge orientable substance of sufficient strength to withstand expected usage; the system then includes a series of processing stations within a suitable protective enclosure wherein a positive engagement belt drive carries the photoreceptor plate through a processing conveyance for application of xerographic toner, image printout to paper or film, plate relaxation, plate neutralization and, finally, plate storage under controlled heat in readiness for next successive imaging.

Abstract: A device for use in conjunction with conventional coffee makers of the drip blending variety. The novel device consists of a disc or plate constructed of suitably heat resistant material and adapted to be disposed in the bottom of the filter holder during the process of coffee blending.

Abstract: A self-propelled apparatus for uniformly dispensing a liquid insulated coating material on a telephone cable or the like adapted to be supported on and traversed over an elevated supporting cable to which the coaxial cable is secured. The apparatus includes a gasoline engine as a primary power source drivingly connected to a positive displacement hydraulic pump which provides pressurized liquid coating material to both a reversible hydraulic drive motor and a spray head. A hydraulic control system is disclosed for adjusting and controlling the operation of the apparatus. Manual spray means is further provided to facilitate the dispensing of liquid coating material on the cable.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a utility compartment, including propane powered generator and storage compartment, that is readily adaptable for rear end affixure to a travel trailer or motor home. The apparatus consists of a carrier support frame which may be rigidly interposed between the travel trailer frame and existing bumper structure, which carrier support frame then forms the bottom paneling and side support structure for receiving unitary side paneling. The apparatus is provided with a center divider panel defining a generator compartment and a storage compartment, and a top-opening lid is secured thereover for hinged opening and locked closure.

Abstract: Apparatus in the form of a foot gloving having a plurality of padded surfaces for use in Karate fighting. The apparatus consists of a shoe-form gloving which is laceable for secure positioning on the foot, and the shoe is constructed of tough, resilient material having uniform padding at all surfaces and, in addition, having padding on sides, heel and toe where the conventional Karate foot blows make contact.

Abstract: An improved apparatus for automatically extending and retracting the landing gear of a semi-trailer. The apparatus includes a reversible electric motor and speed reducer removably drivingly securable to an existing manually operated mechanism for extending and retracting a landing gear. Electric circuitry is provided for permitting an operator to control the extension and retraction of the landing gear from within the cab of a tractor and, alternately, from the exterior of the semi-trailer. The electrical circuitry provides both audible and visual indication of the position status of the landing gear and automatic cutoff of the electric motor when the landing gear is fully extended, and alternately, when the landing gear is fully retracted.

Abstract: An attachment for a stapling gun of the type which is used in the finishing and construction business for fastening electric cable and the like, and more particularly, the pneumatic stapler which is used for securing electrical cable through its routing within a building structure. The attachment consists of a guide member which is readily affixed to the commercially available staple gun to enable gun alignment and placement of the staple without danger of nicking or otherwise injuring the electrical cable insulation during placement and securing of the electrical cable as must be done in accordance with most building specification requirements.

Abstract: Apparatus for combinative use in conjunction with existing fences, particularly the woven mesh fence types, wherein the fence is given the capability of being raised manually in upward suspension for purposes of grass cutting, ground cultivation and the like immediately along the fence row. The apparatus embodies what may be termed conventional vertical upright posts disposed along the fence row to support the fencing material therealong, but in addition there is included a telescopic, slidable vertical sleeve and means for raising the vertical sleeve, attached fence and railing to a predetermined height for temporary affixure as required for ground maintenance.

Abstract: An internal combustion engine ignition device of the capacitive discharge type which utilizes a single transistor, semi-conductive controlled rectifier and attendant reactive circuitry to provide timed high voltage application to create a direct current arc, or plasma, at the spark discharge devices. The circuit is actuated by closure of the contact points to energize a transistor to operate in a Class D amplifier mode that, in turn, enables conduction through the primary of a transformer, the secondary of which places increased voltage charge on a capacitor to a predetermined charge level. Thereafter, opening of the contact points causes conduction of the semi-conductive controlled rectifier which allows discharge of the charged capacitor through a current steering bridge to the ignition coil to enable application of high voltage for establishing a direct current arc, or plasma, at the spark discharge device.

Abstract: An improved universal shaper assembly adapted to rotate various forms of shaper cutters about a vertical axis and, alternately, about a horizontal axis. The assembly is provided with a vertically adjustable horizontal workpiece supporting table for use in conjuction with horizontally rotated shaper cutters. Also disclosed is a horizontal cutter adapter assembly for converting a conventional universal shaper having a vertical spindle to provide a woodworking apparatus for horizontally rotating a shaper cutter over a vertically adjustable workpiece supporting table.