Abstract: A walker specialized for use on trails by pushing and walking, rather than riding on, with no drivetrain is provided. The walker can include a frame, two inline wheels, and a handlebar steering mechanism. The walker can further include a braking mechanism, an elbow rest, an electric motor, and racks and/or carriers for gear.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and methods for automating the tuning process for drums. The invention automatically applies tension across the batter heads of a drum. The invention consists of a plurality of electrical stepper motors each of which is connected to a gear reduction assembly and a rotating tension rod. The invention acts to exert a tensioning force on each attachment point around the circumference of the hoop(s) securing the batter head to the drum shell. An algorithm drives a microprocessor that monitors the current being used by each stepper motor assembly which is translated to torque. When the torque for each stepper motor assembly reaches a predetermined level, the tension holding the batter head and to the shell of the drum will be in tune.

Abstract: Where printing plate is to be secured to a plate cylinder by means of double-sided adhesive tape, the surface of the printing plate to be secured to the plate cylinder is, prior to bonding, partially pre-treated by means of a low-temperature plasma pencil after cleaning with isopropanol.

Abstract: The Nondestructive Fluid Sensing System is a device that rapidly scans fluids to determine physical and chemical properties of the sample fluid. The Nondestructive Fluid Sensing System can detect the presence of a sample fluid with various optical and electrical sensors, and determines physical and chemical properties. The system features several innovations that increase sample throughput, reduces sample cross contamination, and eliminates waste products typically used in chemical tests. The system may be applied to various industries including manufacturing quality control, and healthcare.

Abstract: An undergarment facilitating the process to transition from disposable protective undergarments and diapers to underwear or “toilet/potty-training” in individuals where a subject is able to access and use facilities independently and at the proper time. The training undergarment can be made of textile of differing colors and prints with a particular thickness integrated with fasteners, which lock together creating a garment with a front and back. The snaps enable the training undergarment to be removed by unsnapping the closures and removing said undergarment without the individual becoming completely undressed or disrobed. The training undergarment protects the clothing of the individual from excrement in said transition until the individual is fully “trained” and able to use proper facilities at the proper time.

Abstract: The sanitary napkin has a semisolid (flexible) structure affixed along the center base of it. The semisolid flexible structure is an elongated form of matter that goes along the base of the sanitary napkin. Surrounding the affixed center base semisolid structure is material that is not semisolid or solid, but soft and consistent with the rest of the sanitary napkin.

Abstract: The Ergonomic Handle Scraper includes an ergonomic handle device that may be adapted to perform a wide variety of tasks such as scrubbing, scraping, scooping, cutting, brushing, painting, sanding, grating, shaving, etc. The device may be produced in a wide variety of shapes and sizes and may be constructed from a wide variety of materials and manufacturing processes. The Ergonomic Handle Scraper provides a user with a compact, ergonomic handle which may be used in conjunction with other adjoining and complementary shapes, materials, surfaces, textures or tools. More specifically, the ergonomic handle is the basic component that enables other components to be combined with or extended from the handle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring position and magnitude of downhole mechanical friction. The apparatus comprises sensors that reside along, or in-line with, a section of equipment that is installed or removed from a wellbore. The sensing device is configured measure relative to the wellbore during a work-over or other well intervention procedures where said section of equipment (tubing, rods, drill pipe, etc.) is installed in, or removed from, the wellbore. Recorded measurements are then processed to correct for dynamic forces to provide a measure of friction through the portions of the wellbore where said equipment travels. The sensing can be done near the source of friction, or at some distance through a mechanical connection. A method for determining depth and magnitude of downhole friction is also provided. Additionally, a method for applying the map of wellbore friction to the design and analysis of a rod actuated pump is presented.

Abstract: The embodiments disclose a method including providing a flexible extension brush housed in a brush sheath coupled to a smart cosmetic brush, providing a two-stage mechanism coupled to a flexible extension cap to actuate the flexible extension brush, providing a smart cosmetic container coupled to the smart cosmetic brush, providing digital electronic devices and sensors coupled to the smart cosmetic brush, providing digital electronic devices and sensors coupled to the smart cosmetic container, communicating with a smart cosmetic app from the smart cosmetic container to a cosmetic company to reorder cosmetic products automatically based on sensor volume detection, using the smart cosmetic app augmented reality to allow the purchaser to demonstrate to friends and family on social media different cosmetic products colors and materials appear on themselves, and interacting with cosmetic company videos displayed on the purchase digital device display for screen on screen presentations and purchaser follow along p

Abstract: The Weave Assist is an all inclusive flat but slighlty elevated weaving device used by stylist and seamstresses to cut out the stop and start of needle prepping. It is also used to make and correct wig units in a portable all inclusive design that has a simple blade for your cutting needs while prepping or wig making. It also has feet to help the device stay in place while working. The device the has a base, spool, spool holder, storage box, cutting blade, magnet, and half moon holder to attach block bead if not attaching directly to the base. The weave assist allows needle prep for up to 2½ clients. The lifespan of the weave assist is 3-7 years with proper use. The device can eliminate one less step in the weaving process allowing work to process without breaks and complete clients in a timely manner.

Abstract: A method and device for reading, writing, and communication by deafblind users is provided to enable such exemplary functions as word processing, text messaging, Internet access, and telephonic communication. By combining a chordic keyboard for user input with a self-scrolling Braille pad for reading Braille, embodiments of the invention enable the user's hands to stay in place on a user console rather than having to constantly switch back and forth between typing messages versus reading or checking for messages. This in turn enables duplex communication because the user can read or acknowledge incoming messages even while typing. It also reduces the dynamic complexity experienced in reading Braille because a body part used for reading Braille can remain constantly available for receiving messages simply by resting in place on the self-scrolling Braille pad without any swiping, thereby eliminating swiping gestures and the problem of timing them with the receipt of messages.

Abstract: With the components assembled and the ice block formed, the Ice clamping device will allow the user a safe and effective way use the ice block to clean a food grade grilling surface. Thereby cleaning the grilling surface without direct metal on metal contact with that surface there by eliminating the issues and hazards assorted with those cleaning tools i.e. metal from wire bristles or broken material that can be ingested.

Abstract: A soot sensing system includes a soot sensor having a first element, and circuitry to an amount of soot accumulated on the element and to control heating of the element in response to the soot accumulation. An electrostatic repelling voltage (ERV) may be applied to a sensor/heater element(s) during a contamination prevention mode (CPM) to repel ash and reduce contamination of the sensor. A pulsed heating voltage (PHV) may be applied to the elements during the CPM and a pulsed ERV may be applied to the elements during the “off” period of the PHV. All voltage to the elements may be turned off during the CPM and the elements may be floating/ground. A PHV may be applied to the elements during the CPM and no voltage may be applied to the elements during the “off” period of the PHV. A heating voltage may be applied to the elements during a CPM corresponding to a cold start.

Abstract: A method of applying a pattern to a nonplanar surface. A stamp has a major surface with pattern elements having a lateral dimension of greater than 0 and less than about 5 microns. The major surface of the stamp has a functionalizing molecule with a functional group selected to chemically bind to the nonplanar surface. The stamp is positioned to initiate rolling contact with the nonplanar surface, and contacts the nonplanar surface to form a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of the functionalizing material thereon and impart the arrangement of pattern elements thereto. The major surface of the stamp is translated with respect to the nonplanar surface such that: a contact pressure is controlled at an interface between the stamping surfaces and the nonplanar surface, and a contact force at the interface is allowed to vary while the stamping surfaces and the nonplanar surface are in contact with each other.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods and apparatus to support transport of a pet in a self-contained expandable carrier. In some examples, the carrier may be worn by a user to support the pet in a proximate location. A pet carrier which may be worn may provide comfort to pet owners while they travel.

Abstract: Shaker will provide users a quicker and more efficient way to take their supplements before, during, and after their workouts. This delivery system will offer them the option to carry all three main supplements at once.

Abstract: Liquid crystal displays in computer monitors require a source of backlight, in which light emitting diodes are the most widely used, however these electric light sources can cause eye strain after prolonged viewing. In order to provide an alternative to desktop computer users which are in front of LCD displays for most of the day, the present invention supplies a way to use natural solar backlight from a nearby window or candle to completely eliminate such strain.

Abstract: This invention relates to attachable personal cooling fans specifically designed to provide several hours of cooling for the user. These units were originally designed for baseball/softball plate umpires for hot weather conditions, however, they could be adapted for other uses. The units are portable and lightweight and can be attached to any facemask.

Abstract: Systems are disclosed for pasturing livestock on an industrial scale, including for instance poultry.

Abstract: A disposable cat litter box system convertible from an open box to a covered box with an attachable hood and air treating devices. Said air treating device comprises an access opening in the box upper wall member going to an absorbent material to be liquid dosed with cat products. Said absorbent material is secured to the inside surface of the upper wall member covering the access opening. Said hood comprises a fold-line creased paperboard or plastic flat blank, erected into an attachable hood having a horizontal locking bottom flap, opposing vertical side walls and horizontal top wall secured to the cat box by the horizontal locking bottom flap and spreadable, tensioned elastic bands. Included is a method to reuse the disposable cat litter box by opening and closing one end of the cat box to pour out used litter and refill with new litter.