Abstract: A pair of fastening hook-and-loop patches, consisting of a flexible and decorative hook patch and a flexible and decorative loop patch is permanently attached to a mated pair of complementary items by embroidery which provides enhanced attachment and resistance to curling and inadvertent disassociation with the article of clothing. The mated pairs of complementary items may include articles of clothing or other articles of manufacture. The decorative embroidered applique patches on a single pair of complementary items are unique and aid in mating assorted individual complementary items based on the shape and color of the fastening patch embroidered to the complementary item. The decorative nature of the patches is useful in attracting a child's attention to the fastening device, which results in the child's interest in participation in mating items, such as socks, which may be separated from their complementary mates.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for positioning planks or other articles which are to be set on a framework. The invention includes a platform having feet to stabilize the platform with respect to the framework. A connecting rod, a guide brace and a platen are all pivotally attached to the platform. The connecting rod has a proximal and distal end. The distal end of the connecting rod is attached to an end of the guide brace as well as the platen. The opposite end of the guide brace is pivotally attached to the platform. The proximal end of the connecting rod is pivotally attached to a handle assembly which in turn is pivotally connected to the platform. A rotational torque applied to the handle is transmitted by the handle assembly to the connecting rod which in turn causes the platen to apply a force to the plank or other article to be bent.

Abstract: A bracket assembly for mounting and supporting objects on shopping carts, comprising a mounting member and a U-shaped clamp configured to receive the handle of a shopping cart and capable of adjustable attachment to the mounting member. The mounting member has spaced apart ends extending from a central portion having spaced apart bores. The U-shaped clamp has outturned ends with slots positioned to align with the bores of the central portion of the mounting member for adjustable attachment thereto. The bracket assembly may include a support member configured to operably engage an inner surface of the mounting member and attached to the mounting member at the central portion and one of the spaced apart ends of the mounting member.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for teaching azimuths. The present invention discloses a game or simulation using azimuths to locate targets placed on the game board of a player's opponent. The player alternate turns in an attempt to hit the targets on the opposing player's board. The first player to hit all of the targets on the opposing player's board wins the game. The apparatus therefore includes at least one game board having a plurality of spaces, reference points from which azimuths can be selected, and a mechanism for determining which of the spaces is hit by the intersection of two azimuths from the preselected reference points. The method incorporates the use of the present inventive apparatus for play. Alternative game boards, azimuth mechanisms, and rules are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for enclosing and heating a fluid flow control device. The apparatus includes a cover assembly and a heater element. The heater preferably has an elongated body for placement on or adjacent to the ground on which the fluid flow device extends. The method is directed to the use of the apparatus and positioning the heater in order to establish a substantially uniform thermal gradient within the cover in the range of less than two degrees per vertical inch of elevation.

Abstract: A track section for pivotally interconnecting sections of toy vehicle track comprising at least two pivotally attached segments, each segment having a top surface, a bottom surface, and spaced apart ends. The track section further comprises cooperating rails that form a substantially continuous path for guiding the movement of a toy vehicle when one segment is positioned at an angle relative to another of the at least two segments. The rails partially define a pair of spaced apart parallel channels along with a median on the top surfaces of the segments. The track section includes a coupling device comprising a prong protruding from one end of one of the segments along a central longitudinal axis, and a socket formed in one end of the other segment along a central longitudinal. The other ends of the segments include a connecting device comprising a cooperating flange and recess for pivotally connecting the segments wherein the flange of each segment is received within the recess of the other segment.