Abstract: A waterfowl lure used to attract waterfowl to a general area, comprising of a ground covering with an artistic print on its top face that mimics unfrozen water or a food plot, the purpose of which is to simulate a natural waterfowl habitat. The print may also contain portrayals of living waterfowl. The ground covering can be attached to any type of underlying surface, whether land, snow or frozen water.

Abstract: Bird decoys for attracting predators, one of which decoys may be rotatably deployed on a rod with one wing folded, the other wing extended and both moving to simulate a wounded bird. Other embodiments include a mechanical flying bird supported on a rotating arm in a single bird flying configuration, a pair of mechanical flying birds deployed in tandem on a common rotating arm and a stacked flying bird configuration of four birds. A method for attracting predators using bird decoys which simulate dove, quail, crow, hawk, duck, geese or the like, and includes the steps of rotatably deploying a bird decoy with a folded wing on a rod or stake and causing the extended wing to flap and the folded wing to vibrate, thus simulating a wounded bird. The method also includes mounting one or more mechanical flying birds on a rotating arm or arms attached to an upright support for simulating circling of the various decoy birds in selected locations to attract predators.

Abstract: The present invention uses the Jig Fishing System™ to achieve a more effective and enjoyable way of ice fishing. By practicing the disclosed invention, the skilled practitioner will now enjoy quick set-up, enhanced monitoring, and more effective, safer, warmer, dryer and more social ice fishing. The advantages of using the present invention include: easy set-up, storage and transportability of the ice fishing devices; easier and more effective fish detection monitoring, including fish detection monitoring from a distance; warmer, dryer, safer and more social ice fishing; and the ability to have reliable fish strike monitoring and signaling during the day, night or inclement weather.

Abstract: A fishing rod holder mounted within a gunwale of a boat, and a compartment cooperating therewith storing a retractable stainless steel line having a clip at its end for temporary securement to a reel attached to a rod being held, with the stainless steel line being able to be reached and withdrawn through an openable door in the compartment to tether the rod and reel against accidental loss.

Abstract: A fish attractant slug which can be easily placed on a fishing line in close proximity to a bait. The slug includes a center bore and an outside surface. The outside surface preferably opens into a spiral groove which connects with the center bore. In order to install the device, the user wraps the fishing line around the spiral groove, then pulls it taut. The tension placed on the fishing line pulls the line inward until it rests within the center bore. In use, the attractant slug slowly dissolves to release the fish attractant it contains. The installation method allows a user to place an attractant slug on the fishing line without untying the bait.

Abstract: A fishing lure of the spinning type for use especially to attract the category of fish known as Bass, this lure may also work on some other species of fresh, and saltwater fish. The invention includes an upwardly and rearward legs of a wire skeleton with a spinning blade, rotateably mounted to a upper leg with a rearwardly extending leg terminating with a weighted head or body molded around a hook. A modified form of the invention utilizes the spinning action of the blade to affect the horizontal-drumming device mounted just ahead of the blade, on the upper leg.

Abstract: A lipless fish lure having a tear-shaped body with a head portion and a tapered rear portion, the body having a weight inserted into a cavity formed in the underside of the body and cooperating with the body to form a substantially vertical moment axis about which the head and the rear portions pivot in correspondence with one another, the weight further cooperating with the body causing the body when towed to travel in a substantially upright position.

Abstract: The present embodiment of the invention relates to a bottom fish rig for use in connection with fishing tackle. The bottom fish rig has particular utility in connection with fishing tackle having a strong leader with a notable new removable sliding c-weight and a horizontal unilateral three pronged hook that resists snagging and reduces possible injuries. A horizontal unilateral three pronged hook differs from the standard treble hook by having all three barbs oriented upwards in a 180 degree plane and that the horizontal unilateral three pronged hook is designed to lie flat on the surface.

Abstract: A large animal trap for humanely capturing and restraining large feral animals, particularly feral hogs, is disclosed which is field assembled from pre-manufactured modular components. Animals are enticed into the trap by an animal baiting means. A sliding gate supported and released by a sliding gate latch means and gate locking means are further disclosed, which traps the animal once triggered and prevents the animal from raising the gate. The modular components are in the shape of flat square or rectangular wire mesh panels framed by square tubing. The sizes and shapes of the modular components are especially advantageous for ease of transport to remote trapping locations. Once the individual components are placed in their proper positions to form the trap, they are joined together by fasteners, not requiring tools to secure. Said fasteners may be later removed when the user disassembles the trap.

Abstract: A method of capturing insects comprises, in one embodiment, provision of an elongated housing which permits airflow between upstream and downstream ends while impeding passage of insects therebetween, a movable closure which is biased into a closed position to hinder access to the interior through the upstream end, and a movable purge valve. In operation, air is evacuated through the purge opening establishing vacuum source within the housing interior, the movable closure is placed proximate to a target insect, and an air pressure differential is created whereby ambient air is drawn into the housing interior at a sufficient flow to cause the movable closure to open, thus creating an entryway into the upstream region drawing the insect into the upstream region to be trapped when the movable closure returns to the closed position.

Abstract: An insect collection device comprises, in one embodiment, a compression chamber movable between compressed and uncompressed positions, an elongated housing defining a housing interior, a partition, and a movable closure. The partition separates the interior into upstream and downstream regions and is constructed to permit airflow between these regions while impeding passage of insects therebetween. The movable closure is disposed on a free end portion of the housing and moves between a first position hindering access to the upstream region and a second position creating an entryway into the upstream region. The movable closure is preferably biased into the first position and is only urged into the second position upon actuation of the compression chamber from the compressed position to an uncompressed position such that insects in a vicinity of the free end are drawn into the upstream region for collection.

Abstract: The invention concerns an emulsified fuel containing a major part of hydrocarbon liquid and a minor part of 5 to 35 wt. % of water, containing a set of additives, among which an emulsifying system comprising 2.5 to 3.5 parts by weight of at least a sorbitol ester, 1.5 to at least 2.5 parts by weight of an least a polyalkoxylated fatty acid ester and 0.5 to 2.0 parts by weight of at least a polyalkoxylated compound selected among iso-, di- or trialkyl alcohols.

Abstract: The invention relates to a liquid fuel composition comprising: 10-80 vol % of a first component comprising at least two aliphatic organic non-hydrocarbon compounds; 20-65 vol % of a second component comprising at least one hydrocarbon and having an aromatic content of less than 15 vol % of the total of the second component; 1-35 vol % of a third component, which comprises an oxygenate; and 0.01 to 20 vol % water, wherein at least one compound in the fuel composition is miscible with both water and hydrocarbons to provide a single phase composition. Such fuels have been found to reduce undesirable emissions in the exhaust gases and enable the use of recycled compounds and water in the fuel.

Abstract: It has been discovered that less expensive, and in some cases synergistically effective anti-static additive blends may be added to hydrocarbon fuels to improve the conductivity thereof. The blend includes an anti-static amount of at least one hydrocarbon soluble copolymer of an alkylvinyl monomer and a cationic vinyl monomer and an anti-static amount of at least one hydrocarbon soluble polysulfone copolymer of at least one olefin and sulfur dioxide. Optional ingredients include polymeric polyamines and aryl sulfonic acids.

Abstract: A Process for acheiving a 5 log reduction (99%) of bacteria on seeds using ultraviolet activated oxygen gas. The seeds are in a tank and the gas is introuced using a sparging system that allows the gas to be delivered in 20 to 60 micron bubbles for greater contact area between the seed and and gas, allowing the activated oxygen to reduce bacteria fast and efficiently. Also, the water is saturated with ultraviolet activated oxygen for use in germination and aiding in the growing processes. This reduction of bacteria results in extended shelf life (and no chlorine is used).

Abstract: A stackable deep-drawn plastic container has an at least slightly conical wall and a bottom connected to the conical wall. The wall has a rim area remote from the bottom. The rim area has a first ledge and a second ledge located below the first ledge. It also has an intermediate support area having a first end connected to the first ledge and a second end connected to the second ledge. A stacking spacing of the deep-drawn plastic container when stacked in a stack is determined by the first and second ledges. The first and second ledges in a plan view onto the rim area overlap at least partially. The intermediate support area has a first width at the first ledge that is smaller than a width at the second ledge. The intermediate support area has a wave shape at least at one of the first and second ends.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for starved air gasification of solid organic materials, including biomass and other wastes, to convert the chemical energy stored in such materials to thermal energy or gaseous products that may be used in biochemical and/or chemical synthesis. Specifically, the system utilizes a gasifier having a “moving bed of ash” hearth wherein the feedstock is partially oxidized at a low temperature (less than 1500 degrees F.) in a square or rectangular chamber having a vaulted, tapered or flat roof. Combustion gases from the gasifier are held at temperature using a recovery and regeneration chamber, and then undergo secondary oxidation in an oxidizer. The high temperature gases produced by the system can be utilized to advantage, for example, as the thermal energy source for a conventional heat recovery device such as a heat exchanger, steam generator, hot oil or air heater, or steam boiler.

Abstract: A system for signaling the position of a movable barrier includes a movable barrier; a motor coupled to the movable barrier for moving the movable barrier between limit positions; a position detection device that monitors the movable barrier to generate a barrier position signal; and an indication device that receives the barrier position signal and indicate a position of the movable barrier relative to the limit positions. The system also includes an operation mechanism for controlling the motor and at least one transmitter device which generates a transmission signal received by the operator mechanism to energize the motor. The system further includes a blocking switch which generates a blocking signal received by the operator mechanism to prevent receipt of a transmission signal from a device other than one associated with the indication device.

Abstract: An opening/closing apparatus including a trapping detection structure which reliably implements detection of trapping of foreign objects, even at a structure at which an outer peripheral edge of a moving body or an inner peripheral edge of an opening includes corner portions with small radii of curvature. A pressure sensor which detects external forces from directions intersecting a length direction thereof is provided at an outer periphery portion of a back door. However, at a corner portion, at a lower end portion of a door side portion or the like, the pressure sensor is provided with a large curvature such that the pressure sensor keeps distant from the corner portion. In place thereof, another pressure sensor, with a facing pair of electrode sheets, is provided along the corner portion. When one or more of these pressure sensors detects an external force, the back door is moved for opening.

Abstract: A region in a metallic panel that facilitates the transmission of radio frequency signals. The metallic panel may be included in a window such as the window of a vehicle or building. For example, the metallic panel may be used for heating or to reflect infrared radiation. An aperture is formed in the metallic panel to enable radio frequency signals to be transmitted through the metallic panel. The design of the aperture may be selected to enable the transmission of the desired frequency band. Furthermore, the aperture is designed such that there is a taper in the transmission amplitude and/or the phase to suppress lobing effects on the other side of the aperture. In an embodiment in which the metallic panel is used to conduct electric current, the aperture may be oriented such that the current may flow between the openings of the aperture. Accordingly, there may be uniform heating across the metallic panel without blocking the transmission of radio frequency signals in the desired frequency band.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a sliding door system with at least one automatically driven sliding leaf, which is guided on a traveling carriage and a support profile, where the drive and a runway rail are mounted in a housing above the sliding leaf, and where the sliding leaf can be swung open if necessary in the outward direction around a vertical axis. To create a sliding door system which ensures a reliable and effective sealing function, especially with respect to smoke and fire, which is suitable for use in escape and rescue routes, and which can be used anywhere, regardless of the structural conditions, the sliding leaf, when in the closed position, has sealing-devices, which are active at all times, on all horizontal and vertical edges.

Abstract: A plug for operatively connecting a torsion spring onto a corresponding component of a counterbalancing mechanism of a door assembly. The plug includes a connecting portion for removably connecting the plug onto the corresponding component, a substantially cylindrical collar insertable into an end portion of the torsion spring, an anchoring portion disposed on a bottom section of the collar for cooperating with a coil of the end portion of the torsion spring so as to pivotally anchor the collar onto the end portion of the torsion spring, and a clip projecting from a top section of the collar, and being disposed at a location on the collar substantially diametrically opposite from where the anchoring portion is disposed on the bottom section of the collar.

Abstract: The present invention provides a vehicle door, wherein a drive unit for raising and lowering a glass plate is constructed so that a plurality of pulleys across which wires are laid are provided at upper and lower sides of a base panel, the glass plate is moved up and down by driving the wires, the glass plate is prevented from moving in a vehicle inward direction when the door is closed, wire fixing portions are prevented from being damaged by great upward and downward stroke movements of the glass plate, and furthermore, the wires are prevented from slackening when the wires are driven and stopped. This is realized by providing a supporting rod along an upward and downward movement locus of the glass plate and a contact member which has no contact with the supporting rod, by forming trumpet-shaped guide portions at hole edges of the wire fixing portions, and by V-shaping the circumferential surfaces of a tensioner for eliminating slack of the wires.

Abstract: A support slide for window regulators of motor vehicles comprises a body formed, in a single piece of molded plastic material, by a plate portion and a lateral appendage. The plate portion constitutes a fixed jaw of a clamp for tightening a lower edge of a sliding window pane, and the lateral appendage has a sliding channel adapted to receive a guide rail. A movable jaw of the clamp cooperates with the fixed jaw to clamp the lower edge of the window pane. The shank of a screw for tightening the clamp is equipped with a spacer which is contained in a through-hole of the fixed jaw and which projects from the hole at least on the face of the plate portion which is turned towards the movable jaw to constitute an annular abutment surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing element (7, 21) for fixing a guide rail (6) for sliding doors (1), in particular glass sliding doors, with a retaining piece (8) and a base piece (10, 23). The retaining piece (8) and he base piece (10, 23) are connected to each other in such a way as to be adjustable in the axial direction X-X relative to each other. The retaining piece (8) comprises a housing section (9), for fixing a guide rail (6). The base piece (10, 23) may be fixed to the furniture body (2), by means of, for example, a screw.

Abstract: A door safety guard utilizes two interconnected elongated members, one positioned on each side of a door and resting along a length of the door surface and the adjacent frame. Elastic bands are used to interconnect the two elongated members. Hinges may be used to secure the elastic bands to the elongated members.

Abstract: A superabrasive wire saw having a plurality of individual coated superabrasive particles attached to a wire with an organic binder is disclosed and described. The superabrasive particle can be coated with a solidified coating of a molten braze alloy that is chemically bonded to the superabrasive particle. The organic binder can optionally contain filler materials and/or an organometallic coupling agent to improve the retention of coated superabrasive particles. The resulting superabrasive wire saws can be produced having diameters of less than 0.5 mm which significantly reduce kerf loss. Various methods for making and using such a superabrasive wire saw are additionally disclosed and described.

Abstract: A non-woven abrasive article of interlaced fibers and abrasive particles and a binder which is preformed into a predetermined three dimensional shape and a method for manufacturing the same. The abrasive article is preformed by a thermal setting the abrasive article while it is maintained in a predetermined three dimensional shape or by heating the article to its glass transition temperature and then cooling the article below the glass transition temperature while it is maintained in a predetermined three dimensional shape. This method allows the manufacture of preformed abrasive articles in various three dimensional shapes, including, for example, a bull nosed shape suitable for finishing a concavely curved surface.

Abstract: A composition and associated methods for chemical mechanical planarization (or other polishing) are described. The composition may comprise an abrasive and a dispersed hybrid organic/inorganic particle. The composition may further comprise an alkyne compound. Two different methods for chemical mechanical planarization are disclosed. In one method (Method A), the CMP slurry composition employed in the method comprises comprise an abrasive and a dispersed hybrid organic/inorganic particle. In another method (Method B), the CMP slurry composition employed in the method comprises comprise an abrasive and an alkyne compound. The composition may further comprise an oxidizing agent in which case the composition is particularly useful in conjunction with the associated methods (A and B) for metal CMP applications (e.g., tungsten CMP).

Abstract: A press box generally made from a plurality of modules assembled together wherein each module includes a plurality of tubes or beams and columns arranged to form a box-like frame structure. The modules can be connected to one another in a vertical or horizontal arrangement. Roof modules may be secured to the uppermost module and all modules are secured together. Nuts and bolts, welding, or other means can be used to secure connector plates on the box-like frames to corresponding connector plates or to secured adjacent tubes of different press box modules. The box-like modules can include a doorway, electrical wiring, windows, tables, counters, lights, flooring, ceilings, and be accessible by staircase. Balconies may be secured to one side of the modules as desired. The modules may be individually assembled in a first location, transported to a second location and secured to one another to form a press box.

Abstract: The instant invention features reinforced foam building components, and methods to form affordable, energy efficient structures assembled from a plurality of panel assemblies with common features. The structures are anchored to the foundation by straps passing through the panel assemblies and attached to the foundation. The structure, the panel assemblies, the anchoring system and the assembly methods, comprise a building system for dwellings and other structures.

Abstract: A building roof tie for attaching roof trusses and rafters to wood top plates in building structures, such roof tie having a sheet metal body with risers and a bridge for overlapping a rafter and flaps for wrapping on the sides of the top plate. A generally triangular shaped reinforcing wing provides strength and stability, and can also provide additional hold-down strength, allowing the roof tie to be manufactured from different weights of steel. Turnbuckles attached to the bridge provide additional hold-down strength against increased uplift forces. The roof ties are pitched to conform to a variety of framing applications. A plurality of apertures is formed in the roof tie to provide openings for fasteners for connecting the tie to the wood top plate and rafter.

Abstract: A nonrigid connection apparatus includes a frame-side member securable to a steel structural frame, a brace-side member securable to a seismic brace, and a coupling element that nonrigidly secures the frame-side and brace-side members to each other. By way of example, the nonrigid connection element may provide a hinge type connection, which substantially isolates a seismic brace from nonaxial loads. As another example, the nonrigid connection element may be a ball-and-socket type connection, which substantially isolates a seismic brace from nonaxial loads and absorbs any shear and moment applied thereto when the seismic brace drifts out of an intended plane of the steel structural frame. The nonrigid connection element may also include a collar to stabilize the brace-side member and prevent shears and moments from causing the same to buckle in an unintended direction. Methods of installing and using the nonrigid connection apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A storm protection device (20) to be attachable over a window (21) or other opening of a building (22) includes a header (26), a bottom sill (25) and side frames (23, 24) extending between the ends of the header (26) and the sill (25). The header (26) carries a tube (53) which has one end of a curtain assembly (27) attached thereto. The curtain assembly (27) is biased by a spring (54) to be normally coiled on the tube (53), but the curtain assembly (27) may be manually moved along the frames (23, 24) to the sill (25) to cover the window opening (21). A bar (31) is formed at the other end of the curtain assembly (27), and the bar (31) carries a guide and lock assembly (110) which rides in and can engage at least one of the side frames (23, 24) to guide and selectively hold the curtain assembly (27) at any selected position along the side frames (23, 24).

Abstract: A wall member (10) that may be used with similar constructed wall members to form a retaining wall or similar type of structure. The wall member (10) is at least partly formed of cast concrete and is transported to the location at which it is to be installed. The wall member (10) has an elongated base (11) from which there upwardly extends a wall portion (12). The member has end faces (13) between which one or more passages (17) extend provide for the ducting of services through the wall member (10).

Abstract: A bracket in a suspended ceiling arrangement for connecting the base of a wall channel member of generally inverted C shape to the base of an inverted T bar, having an upstanding T bar leg and bottom T bar arms includes a bracket body for mounting on the T bar has an inverted generally U-shaped central portion for straddling a top end of the leg and extending downwardly on each side of the leg of the T bar. A pair of arms each extend outwardly from said central portion to a respective side of the central portion for extending beyond the arms of the T bar for overlying and fastening to the base of the channel member. The central portion has a pair of generally parallel side walls and a top bridging portion connecting top ends of the side walls wherein the top bridging portion is, in end view, raised from an imaginary plane joining the top ends of the side walls and at right angles thereto to define a raised apex of the top bridging portion midway between the side walls.

Abstract: The invention involves a sheathing-retention device for supporting sheathing against a surface. The sheathing-retention device has a rigid sheathing-engagement portion having an outer surface and an inner surface; and has a tie-engagement portion located with respect to the inner surface. In this way, an end of a wall-tie extending out from the surface (e.g., of a wall) may be received and engaged by the tie-engagement portion while at the same time, the sheathing-engagement portion is in contact with the sheathing, holding the sheathing against the surface (e.g., of the wall). It is preferred that the sheathing-engagement portion is substantially plate-like.

Abstract: The invention concerns a floor construction comprising a plurality of surface portions (12) which each comprise at least one respective material with possibly different properties, in particular properties in regard to human perception when standing on the surface portions (12), wherein the different surface portions (12) are of such an arrangement and configuration that when moving on the floor construction (10) a continuously changing, unforeseeable sequence of different surface portions (12) has to be unavoidably stepped upon.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a framing system for a composite concrete floor, the framing system comprising horizontally extending primary framing members supporting secondary framing members across the primary framing members. Each of the secondary framing members has two opposite ends provided with a shear shoe fixed to the primary framing members by means of a structural joint sufficient to provide a shear connection between the concrete floor and the primary framing members. Thanks to these shear shoes, the framing system of the invention has an increased resistance to horizontal shear forces as compared to prior art concrete floor systems.

Abstract: The present invention is related to a device intended to establish a connection between two adjacent slabs, preferably concrete slabs, by equipping the expansion joint between said slabs, wherein said device is constituted by an assembly of two modules derived from sheets, each of the modules comprising:

Abstract: A roof structure for covering a roof substrate includes a waterproof membrane having a layer of fleece material disposed on a first side thereof. The roof structure also includes a moisture curing, substantially non-volatile polyether based adhesive disposed on at least a portion of the first side of the waterproof membrane. At least some of the adhesive is disposed within the fleece material to permit bonding of the waterproof membrane to a roof substrate of a low slope roof of a building structure.

Abstract: Siding panels having indicia indicating a zone into which fasteners should be placed, and methods for manufacturing and installing the panels are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the siding includes a panel of siding material having a first edge extending along a first dimension, a second edge spaced apart from the first edge a first distance, and a first side with indicia. The indicia define a zone into which at least one fastener should be placed to install the panel. The zone extends along the first dimension and has a width of approximately 0.2 inch to approximately 0.3 inch. The zone has a center line spaced apart from the first edge a second distance of approximately 7 percent to approximately 22 percent of the first distance. The siding material is composed of a continuous, single fiber-cement compound including cement, silica, and cellulose fiber.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved wind lift resistant self-sealing shingles having an adhesive-to-adhesive seal between courses of shingle installation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a floor with strips each defining a length and width and along the side and end edges provided with either end tongue or groove. The floor is laid in groups each including a number of tongue and groove assembled strips fastened to a subfloor by means of at least one fastener such as a screw or nail which is driven into the subfloor via at least one stepped transverse hole designed with at least one step in the respective strip and resting against the at least one step with a fastener head covered by a cover plug in the transverse hole. In mounted position, the plug is so stuck that it cannot be stepped down into the transverse hole by e.g. a spike heel which will not be able to damage or break the plug either, as the plug is made of a strong and durable metal such as e.g. bronze or steel. The length of each strip is longer than the width of the strip multiplied by the number of strips in a group. The strips engage each other in a strong and at the same time beautiful braided pattern.

Abstract: A column assembly for a display frame structure. The structure includes an open paralellpiped box frame structure having a plurality of frame segments coupled with a pair of end webbing members. An extension module, in the form of a hollow geometrically shaped sheet metal enclosure, may be coupled at one end of the box frame structure to form the column assembly. The paralellpiped box frame structure and extension module are capable of removably connecting with the other similar elongated box frame structures and extension modules to achieve a multiplicity of various display frame configurations.

Abstract: A unitized corner brace for attachment to the corner of a structure. The unitized corner brace comprises a central portion having an edge and a right angle; two spaced apart tabs extending from the edge, each tab having a stepped portion proximal to the edge and stepped towards each other, the right angle being between the spaced apart tabs such that the tabs are perpendicular to each other; and, opposed bracket portions extending from the central portion. A method of manufacturing a unitized corner brace from a single piece of material and a stackable structure made using a unitized corner brace are also disclosed.

Abstract: A slab bolster upper for supporting rebar in a reinforced concrete structure while the concrete is poured and thereafter cures, is of molded plastic construction and is formed with horizontal and vertical voids that facilitate concrete placement and break up potential shear planes. Opposite ends of each unit are provided with complementary buckles to interconnect with like units to form a continuous support of desired length.

Abstract: Open frames are disclosed by which structural support is provided, each frame comprising an array of slender members formed into a plurality of zig zag frame elements defining apexes, where the slender members of different zig zag frame elements integrally intersect each other at non-midpoint locations. A linear member bridges between and is integrated with some or all of the asymmetrical points of intersection, in some embodiments. The apexes so formed may comprise two slender members in some cases and four in others.

Abstract: The “post stabilizer” “is basically an efficient, inexpensive, time and cost saving device to stabilize posts, poles, columns, etc. The objective is to keep posts, poles, columns, etc. in their upright vertical position, in order for them to do the job they were intended to do. This could be holding up a mailbox, street sign, flag, wires, fence, etc.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for detecting deflection and twisting rotation of an upright structure is provided. At least one laser device is positioned proximate to a first location on the structure. At least one target is positioned proximate to a second location on the structure. The at least one laser device emits parallel laser beams that strike the at least one target at reference locations that indicate a reference position for the upright structure. The laser beams are emitted either periodically or continuously. Any differences between the laser beam receipt locations and the reference locations are calculated to determine any lateral deflection and twisting rotation of the structure relative to the reference position from the first to the second location. The laser beams may be enclosed within a tube.