Abstract: An overcap for a container including a head portion and a skirt portion, and a method for its production. The skirt portion has a metal wall and an opening area constructed and arranged to be broken during removal of the overcap. A sleeve of plastic material adheres to the metal wall over an area limited to the opening area.

Abstract: A closure panel hemming apparatus includes a lower support supporting a lower hemming die and an upper support spaced from and mounted above the lower support supporting an upper hemming die. The upper and lower supports are relatively vertically moveable for bringing the dies toward and away from one another. At least one guide post interconnects the upper and lower supports and maintains alignment of the upper and lower supports during movement thereof. A plurality of actuators of the ball screw or rack and pinion type is driveably connected to draw together the upper and lower supports bringing the dies together for edge hemming preformed metal panels nested between the dies.

Abstract: In order to improve operation efficiency, there is provided a method for assembling two assemblies together through a rotating medium, in which all the processes are automated except for fitting engagement of the spline portions. The method comprises a first manual operational step and a second automatic operational step. The first manual operational step includes a process for connecting a first rotating shaft member of a first assembly and the rotating medium while adjusting phases thereof. The second step includes a process for fitting a plurality of split knock-pins provided on the rotating medium into corresponding fitting holes of a second rotating shaft member of a second assembly, and thereafter spreading the front end of each split knock-pin so as to fix the rotating medium to the second rotating shaft, and assembling the first assembly with the second assembly.

Abstract: Coated articles having optically useful reflective properties suitable for manufacture of components of lighting fixtures and the like including parabolic louvers utilized as primary elements of fluorescent parabolic troffer lighting fixtures, the invention provides light sheets formed of said coated articles and used in the manufacture of lighting fixtures, the reflective lighting components formed from said light sheets and the coated articles including the coatings utilized for coating optically reflective substrates according to the invention. The coated articles are formed of reflective substrates and particularly polished metal substrates having reflectance values within a predetermined useful range, the substrates being coated preferably with a thin polymeric coating wherein the base polymer is polyester, polycarbonate, epoxy, acrylic, acrylate, etc.

Abstract: The chassis includes at least one support surface capable of receiving a boot and at least one lateral flange to which the gliding member(s) is (are) attached, as well as at least one stiffening rib obtained on at least one of the flanges by pressing. The manufacturing method includes the steps of cutting in a metallic sheet a form corresponding substantially to the completed form of at least one portion of the chassis, and obtaining at least one stiffening rib by pressing in the portion of the chassis.

Abstract: A module jack wire crimping/cutting tool is constructed to include a barrel supported on a spring in a tubular handle, two arched stop elements forced by springs to releasably close the rear end of the barrel and to stop a spring-supported bolt in the barrel, and a stem moved in and out of the front end of tubular casing to hold a crimping/cutting block, which is forced by the spring-supported bolt to crimp and cut electric wires at a module jack upon forward movement of the tubular casing relative to the barrel after attaching the crimping/cutting block to the module jack.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a motor core having a plurality of metallic plate-like laminations includes the steps of a) juxtaposing the laminations in a stacked relation, b) placing the laminations over an alignment post of an alignment fixture, c) flowing at least one bead of hardenable adhesive material along the outer peripheral surface of the laminations where the adhesive material, when cured, fixes the laminations in a predetermined non-moving orientation, d) removing the laminations from the alignment fixture; and e) applying windings to the laminated stack.

Abstract: A superconducting composite comprising a compound oxide type superconductor and an outer metal pipe on which said superconductor is supported, characterized in that (i) said outer metal pipe is made of at least one of metals selected from a group comprising gold, silver and platinum metals and their alloys or (ii) an intermediate layer made of these precious metals is interposed between the compound oxide and the metal pipe. The composite may be in a form of a solid pipe or a hollow pipe having a superconducting thin layer deposited on an inner surface of the metal pipe.

Abstract: A temperature compensation element for a high-temperature strain gage and the method of fabricating the same. Preferably, the element is a “dummy” strain gage not mechanically attached to the substrate. The element is encapsulated in an insulative material and used to compensate an active high-temperature strain gage and wired in a half-bridge configuration. The temperature compensation element and high-temperature strain gage are fabricated using the method of the present invention. This method includes temporarily adhering the element to a heat sink, encapsulated in an insulative material and then removed from the heat sink. Next, the element is either stacked or placed near the active gage. Ideally, the element and the active gage have substantially similar heat transfer and electrical properties.

Abstract: An assembly system and method thereof for manufacturing an outdoor unit of a dual-unit type air conditioner employs an assembly system in which the outdoor unit is assembled, a refrigerant charging section in which the assembled outdoor unit is charged with a refrigerant, a testing section in which the outdoor unit charged with the refrigerant is tested, and a packaging section in which the outdoor unit after passing the test in the testing section is packaged and forwarded. The outdoor unit is carried on a mobile cart through the assembly section, the refrigerant charging section, and the testing section.

Abstract: An applicator die for crimping open loop type terminals to wire leads comprising applicator housing, a plurality of blades and a plurality of housing. An applicator housing is provided which is extended or retracted vertically in response to an applicator force applied thereto. An insulation blade housing with an insulation blade and a core blade housing, with a core blade are movingly disposed inside the applicator housing. Prior to a crimping operation, the applicator housing is retracted and a terminal is moved into position and aligned with the insulation and core blades. A lead wire is also positioned inside the terminal. As the applicator housing descends in response to the applicator force, it pushes the lead wire down into contact with the terminal. A cam lever, acting under the influence of the applicator force, moves a cam vertically, bringing together complementary members of an insulation anvil and a core anvil.

Abstract: The fixture for dismounting a CPU from a portable-type computer system having a motherboard with a CPU-mounting location is provided. The fixture includes a first device capable of displacing, a second device and a third device. The second device receives the first device and limits the displacement of the first device. The third device is responsive to an external force and forces the first device to make displacement such that CPU is dismounted from the motherboard.

Abstract: A plurality of substantially similar fins is produced from the thermally conductive and formable sheet stock, for example aluminum or copper, preferably using a set of matched forming dies. Each die in the set produces a fin that is cupped in side elevation. Each fin has two flanges (in the preferred embodiment) extending from the base portion of the cup, and the fin is preferably rectangular in plan. The die cavities are substantially identical in geometry, but differ slightly in dimension so that the base portion of the cup-shaped fin-pair produced by each die in a set varies in width. Each die in the set includes a feature for producing a locating lug or dimple, or alternatively a hole, in each fin produced. The plurality of substantially geometrically identical, but dimensionally differing fin-pairs are then assembled in a nested stack in accordance with the invention.

Abstract: A process for recoring a damaged aviation oil cooler is disclosed wherein a damaged core is removed from an original aviation cooler and replaced with a new replacement core such that the reassembled aviation cooler maintains original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. The processes comprises the steps of receiving an aviation oil cooler, pre-cleaning the aviation oil cooler, performing an initial inspection of the aviation oil cooler, disassembling the aviation oil cooler to remove an original damaged core from the aviation oil cooler, performing an intermediate inspection of the disassembled aviation oil cooler, reassembling the aviation oil cooler with a new replacement core, pressure testing the reassembled aviation oil cooler, and performing a final inspection of the reassembled aviation oil cooler to ensure correct OEM tolerances.

Abstract: A method of making Circular and Oval Flanged Rings, for the connection of thin walled circular and oval ducting, including Circular and Oval Flanged Rings having a Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors National Association (SMACNA) standard T24 Profile. Thin gauge Lock Form Quality steel, from 10 to 20 gauge, is cut into strips with the strip ends butt welded forming Flanged Ring Band Stock which is inserted and clamped into a Spinning Die. The Spinning Die is rotated by a horizontally configured lathe output shaft presenting the extended portion of the Flanged Ring Band Stock for machine tool forming. Standard machine tools are used to form the Flanged Ring Band Stock into a Circular Flanged Ring including the SMACNA T24 Flanged Ring Profile. A Circular Flanged Ring is cut along a diameter into Semi-circular Flanged Ring Portions; straight segments including segments with SMACNA T24 Linear Segments are roll formed, assembled into a oval shape within a fixture and welded forming the Oval Flanged Ring.

Abstract: The timing gear device or structure (26) has a pair of timing gears (28, 30) mounted on parallel rotating shafts (22, 24). Each timing gear (28, 30) has an outer gear portion (32) and a concentric interfitting inner gear portion (34). Outer gear portions (34) have teeth (48) which intermesh to transmit torque from drive shaft (22) to driven shaft (24). Each concentric inner gear portion (34) has longitudinally extending splines (44) in meshing relation with splines (46) on the inner periphery of outer gear portion (32). As shown in particular in FIGS. 5-8, the timing gears can be replaced by timing structure (26) by angular alignment or indexing of driven shaft (24) with inner gear portion (34) secured thereto while outer concentric gear portion (32) is removed. For indexing, drive shaft (22) is fixed and timing gear (28) is mounted thereon by key (40).

Abstract: A shaft manipulating centering and assembly tool for use in a housing bore has four basic members, a manipulating member, a pressing member, a locking member and a power drive member. The manipulating member has an outer surface the radius of the bore and an inner surface that includes one section the radius of the shaft and a flat section. The pressing member has limited rotation within one end of the manipulating member and can push against the bore wall or shaft and can turn the manipulating member. The locking bar member anchors the tool on a housing stud. The drive member turns the pressing member and manipulating member and holds the locking bar in place. By placing the tool beside the shaft within the bore and turning it in a first direction, the shaft is lifted onto the manipulating member and the locking bar moves beside the housing stud.

Abstract: A lead-free multilayer material for plain bearings and a process for the production of corresponding bearing shells for improved emergency running and mechanical load-carrying capacity characteristics. The multilayer bearing material comprises a lead-free copper alloy having a copper content ranging from 50 to 95 wt. %, and an overlay formed of a lead-free tin and copper having a tin content ranging from 70 to 97 wt. % and a copper content ranging from 3 to 20 wt. %.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a solid polymeric shaving aid strip for a razor cartridge. The shaving aid strip comprises a lubricious water-soluble polymer and a polycaprolactone, and optionally a water-insoluble polymer. It has been found that polycaprolactone improves the fabrication of the shaving aid strip, provides smoother strip surfaces and permits the inclusion of greater amounts of water-soluble polymer in the strip. It has also been found that a shaving aid strip which contains polycaprolactone releases more shaving aid during use and has better structural integrity and less swelling. The present invention is also directed to a razor cartridge which includes the aforementioned shaving aid strip.

Abstract: A dry shaver includes at least one shaving blade which is arranged in a pivotable head frame closed on its sides and which cooperates with cutters oscillating in the longitudinal direction of the shaving blades. The head frame is detachably connected with a base part which includes a cutter driving mechanism. The head frame is designed in two parts, wherein an outer head part carrying the shaving blade(s) is pivotally connected with a part of the head frame that is detachably fixed to the base part, the pivotal connection being about an approximately central pivot axis extending transverse to the oscillation direction of the cutters.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for scissors-type shear allows closing and locking of the shear even when the locking element is placed in a locked position before the shears are closed. The shear includes first and second blade assemblies pivotably connected to one another. Each blade assembly includes a blade and a handle. A locking mechanism is slidably mounted on a first handle. The locking element is moveable between locked and unlocked positions. In the locked position, the sliding lock mechanism engages a catch element on the second handle to lock the shear in the closed position. The locking mechanism includes resilient arms and the catch element includes inclined cam surfaces. When the locking mechanism is placed in a locked position before the shear is closed, the ends of the resilient arms engage the inclined surfaces of the catch element, allowing the resilient arms to flew outwardly and pass over the catch elements.

Abstract: A hand held battery powered vegetation trimmer, comprising a battery pack (4), which powers an electric motor (12) to generate a rotary output (22) and a cutting line (30) which is adapted to be rotatably driven by a line support structure (28). By introducing a reduction gear stage (24) between the motor output (22) and the line support structure (28) the speed at which the line (30) is rotated is reduced which substantially reduces the power consumption of the trimmer without reducing the cutting performance of the line.

Abstract: A circular saw having an improved line-of-sight. The circular saw comprises a motor for rotatably driving a saw blade about an axis to cut a workpiece, a bevel angle being defined between the cutting plane of the saw blade and a surface of the workpiece, a housing supporting the motor; a shoe plate supporting the circular saw on the workpiece to be cut, the shoe plate being pivotably connected to the housing to adjust the bevel angle; a main handle supported by the housing; an auxiliary handle supported by the housing; and an indicator for indicating the bevel angle. Preferably, the main handle, the auxiliary handle and the indicator are arranged so that, in the cutting position, the operator can view the saw blade as the saw blade cuts the workpiece and can view the indicator. The operator holds the main handle with one hand and the auxiliary handle with the other hand.

Abstract: A movable handle for a power tool. The power tool comprises a housing, a motor supported by the housing and operable to drive a tool element about an axis, and a handle supported by the housing for rotation relative to the housing about the axis. Preferably, the power tool is a circular saw. The circular saw further comprises a switch assembly supported on the handle for movement with the handle and means for connecting the switch to the motor to accommodate movement of the switch relative to the motor. The switch assembly is electrically connectable to the motor and selectively connects the motor to a power source, and the connecting means includes a wiring arrangement. The circular saw further comprises a locking assembly for locking the handle in a position relative to the housing.

Abstract: A sharpener for soft-core pencils includes a core shaper with a shaping edge for shaping the core tip, the edge being positioned in the free space in front of the pencil-guiding channel. This shaping edge is a part of a detachably-secured, separate insert, which limits the free space at the rear housing side, and supports the shaping edge on its side facing the guide channel.

Abstract: A rechargeable shaver for a vehicle comprises a shaver and a base member. The shaver includes a body portion having an ergonomic configuration for efficient use while driving. The shaver includes a shaving head having a cutting apparatus at one end and a generally circular surface normal to an opposing end for supporting the side of a user's hand during use. The shaver includes a rechargeable battery coupled to a male connector which extends through the support surface. The base member includes a socket which releasably mates with the male connector when the shaver is placed upon the base member. The socket is coupled to an electrical connector assembly for connecting the socket to a vehicle electrical receptacle for recharging the battery. The shaver may be actuated with an on/off button positioned on the body or, in an alternative embodiment, automatically upon removing the shaver from the base member.

Abstract: An equatorial sundial apparatus with an adjustable base assembly utilizing one or more concave cylindrical focusing mirrors. One of the benefits that is derived from this apparatus is the use of one or more concave cylindrical mirrors to project a focused beam of light onto a calibrated surface from which the time can be read. This sundial has the additional benefit of not suffering from blurring of the time indicator in a shadow or non-focused beam of light typical of other sundials. This sundial's focused light forms a sharply demarcated indicator from which time can be read to the minute. A further benefit of this apparatus is the ability to incorporate multiple concave cylindrical focusing mirrors to reduce the size of the visual field or screen where the time is read and to incorporate various shapes and designs for ornamental purposes without significant compromise of the sundials accuracy for telling time.

Abstract: The compass system of the present invention utilizes an improved calibration routine in which a processing circuit of the compass recalibrates the compass each time three data points are obtained from a magnetic field sensor that meet predetermined criteria. One such criterion is that the three data points define corners of a triangle that is substantially non-obtuse. When three data points have been obtained that define a triangle meeting this criterion, the processing circuit calculates a center point for a circle upon which all three data points lie by solving the equation x2+y2+Ax+By+C=0 for A, B, and C, using the coordinate values (x,y) for the three data points and defining the center point as (−A/2, −B/2).

Abstract: A tilt sensor capable of sensing tilt in two axes includes an outer shell, a magnet at a fixed position inside the shell, and a reference element movable within the shell in response to gravity. Magnetic flux follows a plurality of paths from a pole of the magnet, around the shell, through the reference element, to the opposite pole of the magnet. Magnetic sensors detect changes in reluctance of the flux paths resulting from the movement of the reference element within the shell, from which the angle of tilt can be determined.

Abstract: A programmable probe system for a machine includes a probe, an interface and a two-way optical communication link between them. The probe includes signal conditioning electronics, a power supply, a plurality of on/off switch circuits whereby the electronics may be connected to, and disconnected from, the power supply by a variety of means, for example, an optical signal, or a mechanical switch and a timing circuit. The probe also includes a microprocessor which can be externally programmed from the interface to select one or other of the on/off switch circuits. Where the probe includes a radio transmission for transmitting probe data to the interface, it is also provided with a synthesiser for generating different operating frequencies for the transmission system. The microprocessor can also be programmed from the interface to change the frequency of the system where required.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for data disks adapted to compensate for effects of shock loads imparted to a disk drive which are of sufficient magnitude to cause disk shifts. A series of topographical features are formed on the disk surface or edge to cause signal fluctuation in a sensor during read-back mode operation. An initial signal profile is stored as a map indicative of track or disk alignment with respect to the actuator assembly. Selectively, such as after a known shock event, the topographical features are re-profiled. A comparison of the profiles provides a measure of any track distortion which must be compensated for in future read-write operations by adjustments to data track servo follower algorithms.

Abstract: A method of measuring a misalignment. A wafer comprising an alignment mark is provided. An outer mark with a circular shape and an outer center point is formed on the wafer. An inner mark with a circular shape and an inner center point is formed within the outer mark on the wafer. Using geometric relationship according to at least three arbitrary points on the inner and the outer marks, the inner and the outer center points are obtained. A distance between the inner and the outer points are measured. The distance indicates magnitude of the exposure misalignment.

Abstract: An electronic fat gauge includes a main body and a clamping lever pivotally mounted on the main body. The clamping lever includes a shorter depressing arm and a longer measuring arm extended from a middle pivot portion of the clamping lever in opposite directions. When the shorter depressing arm is depressed, the longer measuring arm is caused to open by a wide angle relative to the main body for conveniently clamping a fatty area of a user's body between the measuring arm and the main body. The open angle of the measuring arm is converted into a signal through a variable resistor connected to the middle pivot portion of the clamping lever, and the signal is further converted by a control circuit into a value of measuring result for showing in a liquid crystal display and viewing by the user.

Abstract: The present inverted bonnet hair dryer is comprised of a bowl with a closed end and an open end. The bowl is pivotally supported on a stand and is rotatable to a position with its open end facing upward. The bowl is comprised of a hemispherical concave inner wall which is generally spaced from an outer wall. The perimeter of the inner wall is connected to the outer wall to define a space between the walls. A hollow tube is attached to the outer wall. An aperture at an outer end of the tube is in communication with the space within the bowl. The aperture is adapted to receive the head of a conventional hand-held electric blow dryer. When the open end is facing upward, the bowl is adapted to be positioned under the head of a person. The head is inverted to hang the hair under the head. The inner wall of the bowl is adapted to evenly support the hair. When the blow dryer is activated, hot air is forced into the space between the walls and released through holes on the inner wall to dry the hair.

Abstract: This invention relates to a vacuum processing apparatus having vacuum processing chambers the insides of which must be dry cleaned, and to a method of operating such an apparatus. When the vacuum processing chambers are dry-cleaned, dummy substrates are transferred into the vacuum processing chamber by substrates conveyor means from dummy substrate storage means which is disposed in the air atmosphere together with storage means for storing substrates to be processed, and the inside of the vacuum processing chamber is dry-cleaned by generating a plasma. The dummy substrate is returned to the dummy substrate storage means after dry cleaning is completed. Accordingly, any specific mechanism for only the cleaning purpose is not necessary and the construction of the apparatus can be made simple.

Abstract: This invention relates to a vacuum processing apparatus having vacuum processing chambers the insides of which must be dry cleaned, and to a method of operating such an apparatus When the vacuum processing chambers are dry-cleaned, dummy substrates are transferred into the vacuum processing chamber by substrates conveyor means from dummy substrate storage means which is disposed in the air atmosphere together with storage means for storing substrates to be processed, and the inside of the vacuum processing chamber is dry-cleaned by generating a plasma. The dummy substrate is returned to the dummy substrate storage means after dry cleaning is completed. Accordingly, any specific mechanism for only the cleaning purpose is not necessary and the construction of the apparatus can be made simple.

Abstract: A legging that is esthetically pleasing, amenable to ornamentation, and capable of providing warmth and comfort. It is comprised of a lower portion which engages the periphery of the foot or shoe at the bottom edge of the legging and may have means of securing the legging to the bottom of the foot or shoe, and an upper portion that adjustably engages the lower leg along its length using closures such as hook and pile fasteners. The upper portion folds over to engage the leg more securely and prevent slippage. It is designed to be easy to put on the legs and feet of a child and permit its use while walking or standing, or in an infant car seat or stroller.

Abstract: A boot traction device or adapter that can be attached to the bottom of a person's footwear, which is removable, adjustable as well as lightweight. In manufacturing the present invention, a single style of sole plate can be configured for either a right or a left foot. The device can be adapted to fit onto any size of shoe or footwear and adjustable strap connectors are used to secure the adapter to the footwear. Threaded openings are provided for the attachment of gripping cleats or other devices to the adapter. Furthermore, the design of the adapter is such that an optional heel plate can be connected to the sole plate.

Abstract: A removable insole for insertion into footwear, includes a forefoot portion extending at least to metatarsals of a foot, with a second recess at an undersurface thereof with a plurality of cylindrical protuberances in the recess; a cupped heel portion including a relatively flat central portion and a sloped side wall surrounding the relatively flat central portion; a mid-foot portion connecting together the forefoot portion and the heel portion, the mid-foot portion including a medial arch portion defined by an extension of the sloped side wall, the sloped side wall extends to lateral and medial sides of the mid-foot portion, and the forefoot portion, heel portion and mid-foot portion formed from a unitary resilient material; a shell that extends along an underside of the insole, the medial arch portion and the sloped side wall at the heel portion and the mid-foot portion, the shell having an opening beneath the relatively flat central portion of the cupped heel portion and a gap at a rearmost end of the shel

Abstract: An article of footwear, in particular a sports shoe or walking boot, that has an outersole and at least one stud which is releasably connected thereto and interacts with the ground. According to the invention, the at least one stud comprises a stud-fastening mechanism, and the outersole has at least one locking recess. Furthermore, the stud-fastening mechanism can be moved into a position in which it engages behind the locking recess in order to produce the releasable connection between stud and sole. Preferably, the fastening mechanism comprises at least one locking arm which is arranged in an essentially pivotable or displaceable manner in a cavity in the interior of the stud.

Abstract: An insole device configured to fit the profile of the human foot to promote proprioceptive stimulation of the golgi tendon organ. The midfoot section of the insole device has an asymmetric domed structure that is presented to the plantar aspect of the foot at a location found to be the anatomical apex of the foot's arch system. The asymmetric domed structure displays physical properties to catalyse muscle group balancing by using the body's proprioceptive feedback mechanisms. The asymmetric domed structure displays physical properties such that it does not provide functional bracing or support to the plantar aspect of the foot. The net result will be a more structurally sound foot capable of more energy efficient and less injury inducing use.

Abstract: An earth moving and land grading machine includes a frame and road wheels mounted on the frame, with a forwardly directed device for permitting connection to a prime mover. The frame has a bin for receiving material. A rear wall is movable between a first position, in which the bin is substantially open for receiving material therein, to a second, forward position during movement for delivering the material from the bin. Movement of the rear wall between the first position and the second, forward position is via a hydraulic ram having a piston. The piston has an outer end that moves along a fixed path and is pivotally connected to an arm partway along a length thereof, so that portions of the arm on each side of the pivotable connection have unequal lengths. A first length of the unequal arm lengths has a longer length and is connected to the rear wall and the second length of the unequal arm lengths has a shorter length and is connected to the earth moving and land grading machine.

Abstract: An implement for use with a bucket mounted to a dipper boom of an earth working machine wherein the implement includes bars slidable mounting within guide elements mounted to the dipper boom such that the bars may be moved by gravity from a first position spaced from the bucket to a second position in generally opposing relationship with respect to an opening in the bucket so as to facilitate the retention of materials within the bucket.

Abstract: A hammerless mechanical attachment system comprising a C-clamp member, a first wedge member, a second wedge member and a threaded tensioning device for attaching a tooth adapter to a base cutting edge of an implement. The C-clamp member has a generally C-shaped body with a forwardly facing abutment surface and a forwardly extending flange having a threaded aperture therein. The first wedge member has a forward side having a first wedge surface thereon, an opposite rearward side having a second abutment surface thereon positionable against the first abutment surface of the C-clamp member, and a through bolt hole disposed along a longitudinal axis parallel to the second abutment surface. The bolt hole is disposed in alignment with the threaded aperture in the flange when the second abutment surface is placed in abutment with the first abutment surface of the C-clamp.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for a quick-connect/disconnect coupling for a heavy-duty machine including a boom and a stick to facilitate the interexchangeability of work tools wherein the locking mechanism can be remotely controlled to lock and unlock the coupling members when they are in mating engagement. The coupling includes a male member attachable to the boom of the machine and a female member attachable to the stick. The locking mechanism includes a pair of planetary gear assemblies, a motor and a brake that drive and maintain a pair of wedge shaped bars within their respective sockets. The coupling also includes proximity sensors to facilitate the proper engagement of the coupling members.

Abstract: A combination gift container and photo album includes a housing defining a chamber therein and having a slot-shaped opening in an outer surface thereof and in communication with the chamber. An inner spindle is carried by the housing in the chamber, and a medium is connected to the inner spindle to be wound around the inner spindle and withdrawn from the chamber via the slot-shaped opening in the outer surface of the housing. The medium includes a greeting card, and a plurality of pockets, preferably transparent pockets, connected together lengthwise. Each of the pockets has an appropriate size to selectively receive a monetary gift and a photograph. The monetary gift preferably comprises paper money, checks or gift certificates. The recipient of the gift would withdraw the medium while reading the greeting card and seeing the money contained in the pockets.

Abstract: To provide pop-up items a plurality of individual sheet material structures are die-cut in composite sheet material consisting of a front sheet and a rear liner sheet of release-coated material joined together by having a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) pattern between the rear surface of the front sheet and the front surface of the rear liner sheet so that, upon separating the sheets, PSA releases from the release-coated rear sheet and adheres to the front sheet in at least desired regions. Some pop-up structures are formed with small panels carrying PSA hinged about fold lines which panels are rotated 180° to provide forward-facing subpanels having exposed PSA regions in the pop-up element.

Abstract: A display for a flexible head toothbrush includes a first representation of a first bristled portion of a toothbrush head and a second representation of a second bristled portion of a toothbrush head. The first representation is interconnected with the second representation by a mechanical linkage. The mechanical linkage provides oscillatory pivotal movement of the second representation with respect to the first representation. The mechanical linkage is preferably an electromagnet motor, such as a self-starting swinging apparatus, powered by a solar cell. The second representation preferably depicts a tip end of the toothbrush head, while the first representation depicts a remaining portion of the toothbrush head. The display may also include a third representation of at least a portion of a toothbrush handle extending from the first representation. Further, the display may include a support having shelves that hold actual toothbrushes.

Abstract: A gun and a base unit such that the gun cannot be fired unless the gun comes in close contact with the base unit and the base unit determines that an authorized person is holding the gun and interfacing with the base unit. The base unit pre-records and stores characteristics of authorized persons and unauthorized person and compares these data with the person interfacing with the base unit. The gun must be gripped to be activated by the base unit and if it is put down, the gun is no longer capable of being fired. The base unit can use multiple means of identifying an individual and a process is described for combining the results from the multiple sources to determine if a person is an authorized person above a selectable threshold of probability. The base unit can also develop a probability that the person attempting to use the gun is a specified unauthorized person. Thresholds of being an authorized person or not being an unauthorized person can be adjusted.

Abstract: The present invention is a device that, when used properly, is useful for increasing the safety of firearms. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a threaded aperture located in a rear position of a firearms' trigger, toward the handle. The preferred location of the aperture is located close to an upper rear corner of an exposed surface of the trigger. Inserted into the threaded aperture is a complementarily threaded barrel screw. The screw has a special keyed head. The special key configuration of the head prevents curious children from inadvertently reversing the safety mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the keyed head has a pentagonal shaped indentation and generally centered within the indentation is an outwardly projecting guide pin. When the screw has been inserted into the aperture, there are two function positions. In a use position, the screw is contained in the trigger and does not substantially project from the trigger.