Abstract: A device (e.g. a wallet) for storing article(s) (e.g. credit card(s)) which is made from hard, durable materials and allows the user to easily locate and select a given article without removing all articles. The magnet-free device is safe for use with articles containing magnetically stored information (e.g. credit cards with a magnetic strip).

Abstract: A device (e.g. a wallet) for storing article(s) (e.g. credit card(s)) which is made from hard, durable materials and allows the user to easily locate and select a given article without removing all articles. The magnet-free device is safe for use with articles containing magnetically stored information (e.g. credit cards with a magnetic strip).

Abstract: A device for preparing tea using a tea bag which dunks the bag for a selected amount of time, then removes the bag from the tea to end the infusion process. The device allows for a more convenient way to brew healthier and more precisely made tea.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention includes a preformed gastric band comprising a flexible substrate and a plurality of band members. The flexible substrate comprises oppositely disposed first and second major surfaces defined by first and second minor side portions and first and second major side portions. The first major surface includes a lower collar section and an upper band section. The plurality of flexible band members is securely connected to the upper band section and extends between the first and second minor side portions of the substrate. Each of the band members includes first and second ends that comprise an attachment mechanism for connecting the first and second ends. Each of the band members is separated from one another by a spacing region.

Abstract: A custom-content beverage cartridge manufacturing and vending machine has a cabinet housing, a user interface area, and a dispensing area that allows an untrained user to obtain beverage cartridges by entering instructions using aspects of the user interface area. The machine allows the user to quickly and easily produce factory quality beverage cartridges according to the user's particular tastes and preferences.

Abstract: A window-mounted motor vehicle ventilation system has a duct, a fan, and a battery that allows for hot air in a parked car to be ventilated to the car's surroundings. In some embodiments, a thermostat allows the user to charge the device less frequently and a removable USB battery pack allows the user to charge the device using most smartphone chargers.

Abstract: A device for preparing tea using a tea bag which dunks the bag for a selected amount of time, then removes the bag from the tea to end the infusion process. The device allows for a more convenient way to brew healthier and more precisely made tea.

Abstract: A custom-content beverage cartridge manufacturing and vending machine has a cabinet housing, a user interface area, and a dispensing area that allows an untrained user to obtain beverage cartridges by entering instructions using aspects of the user interface area. The machine allows the user to quickly and easily produce factory quality beverage cartridges according to the user's particular tastes and preferences.

Abstract: The fundamental wind or water generator concept comprises one or more than one lift producing device(s), which, when subject to a wind or water current C, autonomously pivot(s) and translate(s) linearly while transmitting power to energy conversion unit (such as a pump or electric generator) by way of a flexible transmission member. The lift producing device(s) pivot(s) to a suitable angle, translate(s) a suitable distance, pivot(s) back to the original angle, and translate(s) back to its (their) starting position(s). This autonomous cycle continues indefinitely until the current's average velocity or direction changes substantially, at which point autonomous adjustments are made to accommodate the new conditions and, if possible, operation is resumed.

Abstract: One aspect of the present invention includes a preformed gastric band comprising a flexible substrate and a plurality of band members. The flexible substrate comprises oppositely disposed first and second major surfaces defined by first and second minor side portions and first and second major side portions. The first major surface includes a lower collar section and an upper band section. The plurality of flexible band members is securely connected to the upper band section and extends between the first and second minor side portions of the substrate. Each of the band members includes first and second ends that comprise an attachment mechanism for connecting the first and second ends. Each of the band members is separated from one another by a spacing region.

Abstract: A surgical grasper is provided. The grasper comprises a handle, two jaws operably connected to the handle, which jaws can be actuated by the handle, and a sensor. A surgical grasper for use in robotic surgery is also provided. The grasper comprises a shaft, two jaws at a distal end of the shaft, which jaws can be actuated in response to a robot command, and a sensor. A method for measuring an amount of force being applied by a jaw of a grasper is also provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing a grasper comprising a handle and two jaws operably connected to the handle, which jaws can be actuated by the handle; providing a sensor on the grasper; and, providing for measuring an amount of force being applied to the sensor. A method for measuring an amount of force being applied by a jaw of a grasper for use in robotic surgery is also provided.

Abstract: A surgical grasper is provided. The grasper comprises a handle, two jaws operably connected to the handle, which jaws can be actuated by the handle, and a sensor. A surgical grasper for use in robotic surgery is also provided. The grasper comprises a shaft, two jaws at a distal end of the shaft, which jaws can be actuated in response to a robot command, and a sensor. A method for measuring an amount of force being applied by a jaw of a grasper is also provided. The method comprises the steps of: providing a grasper comprising a handle and two jaws operably connected to the handle, which jaws can be actuated by the handle; providing a sensor on the grasper; and, providing for measuring an amount of force being applied to the sensor. A method for measuring an amount of force being applied by a jaw of a grasper for use in robotic surgery is also provided.