Abstract: An apparatus for storing articles comprises a plurality of individual article support devices for supporting a plurality of articles independent of the side walls of a container. Each article support device comprises a first rack and a second rack. Each one of the racks comprises a first spine and a second spine, each spine having notches for receiving the peripheral surface of the articles. Each rack also has a plurality of openings formed in each rack disposed intermediately to each spine. At least one of the racks has a coupling mechanism for coupling the first spine and the second spine to form one of the racks for coupling to the other rack through one of the openings. The racks are coupled so that the spines of one of the racks are oriented approximately ninety degrees to the adjacent spines of the other rack.

Abstract: This invention produces data packets that can vary in length and/or data compression ratio. First, an algorithm is employed to transform a data signal into fixed or variable length data packets at variable data compression ratios. If the algorithm produces fixed length data packets, the fixed length data packets are then converted to variable length data packets, which include only the valid data bytes of the fixed length data packets. Finally, the variable compression ratio, variable length data packets are provided with length codes at each end of each data packet to facilitate bi-directional searching and decompression. The transition from fixed to variable length data packets employs a buffer which stores the fixed length data packets until the fixed length data packets are converted to variable length data packets.

Abstract: A string bending device for stringed instruments and methods of use are claimed. The novel device permits the user to tension a string to change the pitch and tone by means of a tension arm and attached string pad. The string pad is unique in that it possesses an arcuate channel that acts as a string guide and promotes string life by gently bending the string along the arcuate channel and distributing pressure along a length of the string rather than at one point. The device may be repositioned during play so that other strings can be individually bent. The use of a plunger that may be easily disengaged and reengaged during the playing of the instrument allows the tension arm to easily be repositioned by sliding the tension arm along a rail system. Adjustable tension arm stops permit the user to predetermine the maximum tension that can be applied to each string.

Abstract: A self-propelled chemical delivery vehicle and dispenser generally for agricultural use includes a frame including first and second vertically spaced support members; a rider support member mounted to the frame; an apparatus for providing motive power mounted to the frame; at least two wheel and tire assemblies, with one of the at least two wheels being a drive wheel, the drive wheel being in communication with the apparatus for providing motive power for application of motive power through the ground contact for vehicle movement with the at least two wheel and tire assemblies being spaced apart in generally longitudinal alignment; and an assembly for directional control of the self-propelled chemical delivery vehicle and dispenser mounted to the frame.

Abstract: A blower support device for use on a utility vehicle includes a generally horizontally oriented platform and a vertically oriented support member. A mounting channel is provided and extends laterally away from the vertical support member for pivotably mounting the support stand to the mounting post for pivoting movement of the support stand between an access position and an operational position. A remote throttle control is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus for towing at least one wheeled vehicle includes a frame including at least one generally vertically oriented support member and at least one generally horizontally oriented support member, the horizontal support member being at least partially hollow and formed with a ramp in a distal end thereof; a mounting arrangement for selectively mounting the frame to a towing vehicle; a vehicle support assembly for receiving and holding a vehicle tire, including at least one generally curved forward tire support member mounted to the horizontal frame member, and a rear support assembly, the rear support assembly including a generally L-shaped frame and a generally curved aft tire support member for removable telescopic engagement with the horizontal support member; and a lifting assembly for moving the vehicle support assembly generally vertically between a first position for loading a vehicle and a second position for towing a vehicle.

Abstract: A hitch assembly for mounting to a trailer to form an interface between the trailer and a towing vehicle, with the trailer having a trailer deck and at least one wheel for ground support, said hitch assembly including a generally horizontally oriented cross member; a first mount arrangement including a shaft projecting from the cross member for telescopic receipt in a corresponding hitch receiver associated with a towing vehicle to connect said hitch assembly to a towing vehicle; and a second mount arrangement including at least two bosses spaced a predetermined distance apart and fixed to the cross member, with the bosses being mountable to the trailer deck to connect said hitch assembly to the trailer.

Abstract: A cargo support device in the form of a pallet or a container includes a platform having a cargo support surface, at least one base member for ground support projecting from the platform, the at least one base member having a curved recess formed therein for external access thereto, the curved recess being defined by walls extending into the base member and defining a positioning surface, a receiving surface and a lifting surface.

Abstract: An animal leash including an integrated, selectively accessible cavity, the animal leash comprising: (a) a first elongated strap; and (b) a first collapsible wall attached to the first elongated strap to form an integrated receptacle, the integrated receptacle including an opening providing access to an interior thereof, the integrated receptacle further including a reconfigurable closure adapted to be selectively reconfigured to restrict access to the interior of the integrated receptacle.

Abstract: A cord-winding exercise apparatus for exercising wrists and forearms configured for mounting in a doorway, and for supporting at least one weight member to provide gravitationally influenced resistance, including a winding bar; at least one cord attached to the winding bar; an arrangement attached to the at least one cord for supporting the at least one weight member; and at least two brackets for mounting to a door frame, each bracket being formed with a winding bar receiving area for receiving and releasably supporting the winding bar in a rotatable, cord winding position wherein the door frame restricts lateral movement of the winding bar while the winding bar is disposed within the brackets.