Abstract: A patterned indicia forming system (10) is provided which includes the combination of a flexible carrier layer (18) and a flexible backing layer (28). A plurality of sets of indicia elements (20) are sandwiched between the carrier layer (18) and the backing layer (28). Each set (20) of indicia elements is formed of individual indicia elements (22) which may be removed from a selective set (20) to form a patterned indicia element (16) which may be mounted on a base surface (14). Through use of the patterned indicia forming system (10), a user may inexpensively and simply provide an aesthetically pleasing and professional looking set of sign indicia (16) mounted on a base surface (14).

Abstract: A portable air compressor driven by an electric drill is disclosed. The compressor is rugged, reliable, and designed for economical mass-production for widespread marketing to professional mechanics and do-it-yourself home craftsmen. In one embodiment, a pair of "clam shell" mating housing halves enclose the crankcase and cylinder. In another embodiment, the "clam shell" halves are molded from a plastic material and are mounted on the rearward portion of a die-cast cylinder housing.

Abstract: A pliers having interchangeable and replaceable jaws. Each shank of the pliers have an outwardly projecting stud formed opposite the handle end thereof. A slot is formed in the jaw end of each shank. The slot opens externally of the shank in a direction away from one another. A latch is pivotably mounted in each slot. Each latch has a finger which projects away from the pliers. Each jaw has a recess formed therein, permitting the jaw to be slidably, removably received on a stud. Each jaw further has a notch formed therein having an open end in communication with the recess in the jaw. Resilient means is positioned in each slot for constantly biasing the latch having the finger thereon outwardly of the pliers. When the jaw is slid onto a stud, the finger is received in a respective notch securing the jaw to the stud. A manually-actuatable portion of the latch permits the latch to be depressed against the biasing action of the resilient means, pivoting the finger out of the notch and releasing the jaw.

Abstract: A pneumatic pump has provision for being driven by a conventional electric hand drill and chuck that are un-modified so that they can be detached by loosening the chuck jaws and used for other purposes. The provision includes first and second input shafts protruding at right angles to each other and connected by a bevel gear on each. In addition to improving drive access, to provide a choice of drive ratios, the bevel gears have different diameters. The rotary output of the shaft and bevel gear arrangement drives a reciprocating piston in a cylinder that, in association with check valves and a hose connection, can inflate a pneumatic tire, at a speed and to a pressure, determined by which drive ratio is chosen. The drill can be freely swiveled about either input shaft to which attached. A gauge indicates cylinder pressure. A frame permits the assembly of drive and pump to be used to pressurize a tank for storage of compressed air.