Abstract: A three-dimensional device for displaying indicia comprises multiple planar layers whose tabbed sides are bounded by planar side panels with shots to form a hinging mechanism which when fully open forms a rectangular parallelepiped. The apparatus can be employed to reconstitute cross sectional information from a given three-dimensional form to create an illusion of that form in space. It can also display a wide range of different visual effects that include the use of photographic imagery, text, specialty inks and die-cutting. The display can be effectively viewed in the round, and it folds flat to store or mail.

Abstract: A display device includes a display part made of a roll-up sheet-like direct-view display element; a take-up part attached on one end of the display part, the take-up part allowing the display part to be rolled up; a pulling part attached on the other end of the display part, the pulling part allowing the display part to be roll out; and a holding part for holding the display part from behind. The holding part is formed of linkage, which can be stored on the rear surface of the display part when the display part is rolled up, and can be stretched across the rear surface of the display part when the display part is rolled out. This enables the holding part to be stretched across the rear surface of the display part when the display part is spread out so as to prevent the display part from swaying, thereby maintaining excellent display.

Abstract: A label (10) for identifying a photograph (12) or like item, comprising a backing sheet (15) with a first zone of adhesive (16) and a second zone of adhesive (18), both applied to one face of the backing sheet, and an indicia-bearing strip (19) attached to the backing sheet by the second zone of adhesive. The user can attach the photograph adjacent to the indicia-bearing strip, utilizing the first zone of adhesive. Other embodiments of the invention include a kit comprising labels and single or multiple-picture album pages, (29) or (33) respectively. The album pages contain oversized sleeves (28) to display and protect labeled photographs. The oversized sleeves are designed to accept labeled photographs regardless of whether the label is attached to either a long side (14) or a short side (13) of the photograph.

Abstract: A holder for displaying a sheet of material includes a bracket having a back surface configured for mounting to a support surface, a slidably removable front plate defining a display area, and an insertably removable back plate. The bracket includes a plurality of protrusion members extending therefrom configured to be insertably received by a corresponding number of openings defined within the back plate to enable attachment to the bracket. The back plate is insertably received within the bracket by a recess formed therein and is supported within the bracket by a plurality of extensions projecting therefrom. The front plate is slidably received within the bracket by a recess formed therein. Replacements of varying color and/or tint are included for the front plate and back plate to allow for interchangeability.

Abstract: In an automatic rifle which has been converted for non-military purposes to be semi-automatic by the removal of parts that allow its automatic function, additional suppressing elements are provided to ensure that the interrupter remains depressed until the bolt carrier fully passes the striker catch before the striker catch is engaged by the interrupter. This prevents premature connection of the striker catch and the interrupter, which could prevent sufficient striker spring pressure so that the next round can be fired. In one embodiment the trigger mechanism is fitted with an additional suppressing element (10) formed as a side push plate 7 on the bridge (6) of bolt carrier (5).

Abstract: Weapons safety systems and methods of operating the system are described. An example weapons safety system in which the enabling of a weapon to shoot is controlled by means of an exchange of identification between the weapon and an enabling apparatus. An example weapon includes a weapon identification code and a safety device. An example enabling apparatus that is designed to capture the weapon identification code and to transmit an enabling signal to the safety device in the weapon includes a control unit. The control unit controls the enabling device and includes an identification memory that includes at least one registered weapon identification. Upon receiving a control signal from the enabling apparatus, the weapon transmits an identification signal that contains the weapon identification code. In addition, the enabling apparatus sends a weapon-enabling signal if the weapon identification code matches at least one of the registered weapon identification.

Abstract: A long gun stock for a sniper's rifle includes a longitudinally extending support member for supporting a gun barrel and a hollow portion for receiving a firing mechanism. The gun stock also includes front and rear handgrips extending downwardly and rearwardly toward the rear of the gun stock with the front grip curved around and extending into a lower portion of the rear handgrip. The gun stock also includes a rear portion defining a generally V-shaped opening rearwardly of the rear handgrip and is of a one-piece construction.

Abstract: Improved “moving red dot” sighting device, characterized in that it comprises a fixed light source (4) and a reflecting blade (17), whereby the light source (4) produces a collimated light beam (5) which is projected onto the reflecting blade (17) so as to obtain a red dot or reticle which is visible to the shooter thanks to the reflection on the reflecting blade (17), whereby the beam (5) is projected onto the reflecting blade (17) by means of a rotating mirror (9) whose inclination angle (B) in relation to the light beam (5) can be adjusted.

Abstract: A laser sight is embedded in a mounting rail otherwise used for attaching accessories to small arms discharge devices such as pistols or rifles. The mounting rail has a transverse profile that extends along an axis of the mounting rail for engaging mating features of the accessories. The laser sight is located at least partly within the transverse profile of the mounting rail and has a sighting axis that extends substantially parallel to the axis of the mounting rail.

Abstract: An avian decoy including a decoy body; a stake having an upper end for rotatably supporting the decoy body, and having a lower end for being anchored to a support surface; and a guide for guiding the upper end of the stake into proper position in the decoy body.

Abstract: An apparatus for imparting motion to a decoy such as, for example, a bird decoy is disclosed and includes a frame positionable on the ground and an upwardly extending support structure having a first end connected to the frame and a second end configured for attachment to the underbelly region of the decoy. In one embodiment, the frame defines a circle lying in a plane surface, and the support structure comprises a first member that extends a first length inward from the frame toward the center of the circle and a second member that extends a second length away from the plane surface at substantially a right angle. Back and forth or circular movement of the decoy occurs in response to wind imparting a force on the decoy, with the frequency and amplitude of movement of the decoy being adjustable through adjustment of the lengths of the first and second members.

Abstract: An apparatus for imparting motion to a decoy such as, for example, a bird decoy is disclosed and includes a frame positionable on the ground, a pivot-post secured to the frame and a plate pivotally connected to the pivot-post. First and second plate-support members are positioned adjacent the pivot-post, and constrain the plate to move in fore and aft tilting and pivoting directions, allowing the decoy to move in a three-dimensional like manner. A rotary drive mechanism is eccentrically coupled to a pin-member extending from the plate and serves to drive the plate and, hence, the decoy in the tilting and pivoting manner of movement.

Abstract: This invention is an active artificial game fishing lure that accurately replicates the appearance and movements of a live animal swimming on the surface of the water. Equipped with radio frequency remote control, the lure can be maneuvered around obstacles and into hard to reach locations. A plurality of spring-loaded hooks is hidden inside the body of the lure until the fish strikes. The bite-triggered hook mechanism then releases the hooks, firmly setting them into the fish's mouth. The lure can be designed to represent food sources for large freshwater game fish, such as a rodent (mouse, rat, chipmunk or muskrat), duckling, frog, salamander, or lizard. These features ensure that the angler will be able to get the lure into places where big game fish lurk, that the lure will stimulate the fish's natural feeding response, and that the fish will be hooked when it strikes the lure.

Abstract: A bait holding apparatus includes a deformable receptacle 10 into which the bait can be placed such that the receptacle can deform around the bait. A plurality of apertures 16 are defined in the receptacle such that, when the bait is placed therein, the predator can sense the bait via the apertures. The apparatus can have a shape that enables it to surround the bait in a close-facing relationship. A closure 100 can be located in an open end of the receptacle, with the closure optionally having passage(s) 108,110 therethrough. Alternatively, the apparatus can be a plurality of interconnected ties. A method for forming the apparatus includes the steps of dipping a mandrel into molten material for the sleeve; removing the mandrel and allowing the sleeve to solidify around the mandrel; forming a plurality of apertures in the sleeve, either whilst on the mandrel, or once removed therefrom.

Abstract: A fishing weight used in conjunction with a method feeding bag such as a PVA or mesh bag. The fishing weight comprises an elliptical shaped body having an essentially equal upper and lower hemispheres. Mounted to the lower hemisphere and extending outward therefrom is a post. The post further includes a ring for fastening a fishing line thereto distally located from said hemisphere. The upper hemisphere contains a bore axially located therein for receiving the post of the lower hemisphere upon connection of the lower and upper hemispheres.

Abstract: This application discloses methodology and several devices by which a fragrance-emitting tunnel is fashioned in a body of candle material in a container, whereby when heat is applied to the bottom or side of the container, fragrance is rapidly released from melted candle material to travel almost instantly along the tunnel to the surrounding ambient environment, while reducing the risk of an explosion or splatter discharge due to rapid gaseous release through the unmelted candle material.

Abstract: Organically complexed nanocatalyst compositions are applied to or mixed with a carbon-containing fuel (e.g., tobacco, coal, briquetted charcoal, biomass, or a liquid hydrocarbon like fuel oils or gasoline) in order to enhance combustion properties of the fuel. Nanocatalyst compositions can be applied to or mixed with a solid fuel substrate in order to reduce the amount of CO, hydrocarbons, and soot produced by the fuel during combustion. In addition, coal can be treated with inventive nanocatalyst compositions to reduce the amount of NOx produced during combustion (e.g., by removing coal nitrogen in a low oxygen pre-combustion zone of a low NOx burner). The nanocatalyst compositions include nanocatalyst particles made using a dispersing agent. At least a portion of the nanoparticles is crystalline with a spacing between crystal planes greater than about 0.28 nm. The nanocatalyst particles can be activated by heating to a temperature greater than about 75° C., more preferably greater than about 150° C.

Abstract: Mineral oil compositions with trace portions of additives contain as additive a comb polymer containing ester linkages, either based on a) ethylene-vinylester copolymers modified by hydroxy groups or glycidyl groups with molecular mass weight averages from 3000 to 50000 and an ethylene portion of 50 to 90 mass %, and b) partially imidated and/or partially esterified maleic anhydride copolymers, wherein in the comb polymer based on a) and b) the modified ethylene-vinylester copolymer component is connected by means of ester linkages to the partially imidated and/or partially esterified maleic anhydride copolymer component, or a comb polymer containing ester linkages based on c) ethylene-vinylester copolymers modified by acid and/or acid anhydride groups with molecular mass weight averages from 3000 to 50000 and an ethylene portion of 50 to 90 mass %, and d) polyalcohols partially esterified with C12-C40-monocarboxylic acids wherein in the comb polymer based on c) and d) the ethylene-vinylester copolymer co

Abstract: A combustible charcoal fuel package is disclosed which includes an outer wrapper, preferably formed from burlap or other similar woven material that encloses large pieces of charcoal material, medium pieces of charcoal material and smaller pieces of charcoal material coated or otherwise soaked in a vegetable wax to form an aggregate. The aggregate is disposed at or near the bottom of the burlap wrapper, with the medium-size pieces of charcoal material disposed thereon with the larger pieces of charcoal material disposed on top of the medium-sized pieces of charcoal material. Preferably, all charcoal materials are fabricated from all-natural charcoal logs fabricated from compressed charcoal particles without the use of odor causing binders.

Abstract: In one aspect there is provided a blended mulch product which can be mixed with water and spray-applied to a ground surface to form an erosion control medium, the blended mulch product comprising: about 75% to about 92% by weight ligno-cellulosic fibers; about 1% to about 10% by weight substantially straight synthetic fibers; and a tackifier; wherein the substantially straight synthetic fibers maintain their substantially straight form in the blended mulch product and the erosion control medium. Also provided are slurries in which the blended mulch product is mixed with water to produce the slurry, the slurry is spray-applied to a ground surface and the slurry dries on the ground surface to form an erosion control medium.

Abstract: A system of formwork guides of consistent width and depth but of various lengths; some of which provide bends or curves or junctions is developed for easier laying of garden and landscaping edges of the type having a concrete base (and optional masonry on top). The system of guides comprises prefabricated sacrificial shuttering that delimits straight and curved edging. The guides can be cut to suit a layout. Preferred guides are U-shaped channels of vacuum-formed moulded plastic sheeting. Cross-bridging formations within the guides help maintain the walls upright and can be used to hold optional reinforcing metal rods and/or optional pipes or cables in place until concrete has been poured.

Abstract: A Japanese knotweed injector system for injecting a dose of weed-killing fluid into the stem of a Japanese knotweed, including a fluid dispenser system with a fluid passage, a collared needle with a fluid delivery aperture in communication with the fluid dispenser system, and an actuator connected to the fluid dispenser system for actuating the transmission of fluid from the fluid dispenser system to the fluid delivery aperture.

Abstract: A moisture absorbing and water transferring self watering structured planters, including a plurality of a tapering plant pots, capable of mounting one upon another in a staggered fashion, to provide a series of stacked planters, a bottom planter shaped to provide for its accommodations upon a deck rail, or the bottom planter may locate within a tray, even one that contains casters, to provide freedom for movement upon a patio, deck, or other floor. Contained within each of the stackable containers, and also within the bottom planter, is an elevated base, containing perforations, and a series of downwardly depending slotted wells, the latter into which potting soil may locate, for submerging into any water contained within water reservoirs provided within the bottom of each container, or bottom planter, to achieve migration of water upwardly into the potting soil, for irrigation and moisturization of the root system of any planted vegetation.

Abstract: A non-pyrophoric shift reaction catalyst includes an oxide carrier impregnated with platinum (Pt) and cerium (Ce). The non-pyrophoric shift reaction catalyst may be prepared by uniformly mixing a platinum precursor, a cerium precursor, and an oxide carrier in a dispersing medium to obtain a mixture; drying the mixture; and calcining the dried mixture. The shift reaction catalyst having a non-pyrophoric property has an excellent reaction activity even at a low temperature and can efficiently remove carbon monoxide in fuel.

Abstract: A system and method for increasing the efficiency and/or power produced by an integrated gasification combined cycle system by increasing the integration between the air separation unit island, the heat recovery steam generator and the remainder of the system. By integrating heat produced by the heat recovery steam generator in the remainder of the integrated gasification combined cycle system, heat may be utilized that may have otherwise been lost or used further downstream in the system. The integration helps to increase the efficiency of the combustion reaction and/or the gasification reaction used to produce the syngas utilized in the integrated gasification combined cycle system.

Abstract: A reformer system comprising a conventional hydrocarbon reformer; a controllable fuel supply system; a controllable air supply system; an oxygen sensor disposed downstream of the reformer; and control means for receiving input from the oxygen sensor and setting the flow values for fuel and air. During start-up of the reformer, air and fuel are mixed in a stoichiometric ratio, typically about 14.5/1 A/F for a typical alkane fuel, the heat of combustion being maximum at the stoichiometric ratio. The mixture is combusted ahead of the reformer for typically about 20 seconds, and the hot exhaust is passed through the reformer. After the combustion event, combustion is terminated and the A/F ratio is lowered to about 5/1 to allow reforming to occur. Once the desired fuel flow rate for combustion is established it can be stored in computer memory as a starting value for subsequent starting events.

Abstract: An integrated sash lock and tilt latch assembly is mounted in a sash window having a top rail, a base, and two stiles connected together at their extremities. The integrated assembly contains a sash lock mechanism, a tilt latch mechanism, and a connector. The sash lock mechanism includes an actuator movable to adjust the assembly among a locked position, an unlocked position, and a tiltable position, and a rotor coupled to the actuator. The tilt latch mechanism includes a tilt latch housing supported by the top rail and a latch bolt slidably supported by the tilt latch housing and moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. At least a portion of the tilt latch housing has a generally circular cross-section. The connector has a first end of operably coupled to the latch bolt and a second end operably coupled to the sash lock mechanism.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a security window (1) or door in a burglar-retardant embodiment according to the preamble of claim 1. In order to obtain the burglar-retardant properties in the tilted position (7), at least one connecting rod block (15, 15?, 15?) is situated on at least one casement leg (F1 through F4), which prevents a displacement of the assigned section (13.1 through 13.4) of the connecting rod (11) when the casement (3) is in the tilted position (7) or solely allows a displacement path which is required in the closed position (5) of the casement (3) to disengage the scissor hinge (8) and a bearing element (9, 9?) on the casement (3) or the frame (2).

Abstract: A sliding door system comprising: a transom; at least one door leaf movable along the transom; an endless traction mechanism tension-resistantly connected to the at least one door leaf; a housing supported by the transom; a drive device for driving the endless traction mechanism, the drive device comprising a driven pulley supported by the housing and guiding the endless traction mechanism, the driven pulley having a flange facing the housing, and a locking element on the flange; a complementary locking element supported by the housing; and an electromechanical actuation device received in the housing. The electromechanical actuation device is operable to cause the complementary locking element to abut against the locking element to lock the at least one door leaf relative to the transom.

Abstract: A single rail window regulator that uses a plate with two spaced, parallel guides that are integral to the plate. A lift member, adapted to receive a window pane, is slidably coupled to both guides. A cable is wrapped around two opposing pulleys that are mounted on the plate and a cable drum that is coupled a drive system. The ends of the cable are attached to the lift member. Activating the drive system moves the lift member along the rails.

Abstract: A sliding door includes a frame comprising an elongated header member having a topwall, a backwall, an intermediate wall and a bottom wall. The bottom wall and intermediate wall are engageable with sliding door panel support rollers and the bottom wall and intermediate wall are interconnected by a separate support member to distribute door panel loads between such walls. A movable cover is attached to the header by a hinge part including spaced apart flanges and projections co-operable with projections on the header to support the cover in open and closed positions. The door operator is supported in the header by a single angle-shaped frame member supporting a power supply, a controller and a door operator motor. An adjustable torsion bar assembly supports the door panel against sagging.

Abstract: A seal for sealing a window having opposite sides and an edge at an upper end. The seal includes a sealing body having a receiving space. The receiving space has an opening leading out of the sealing body. The seal includes first and second movable sealing lips each connected at one end to the sealing body on opposite sides of the receiving space and bridging the opening of the receiving space. The first lip is longer than the second lip. The sealing lips move in response to being contacted by the edge of the window as the window inserts into the receiving space such that upon the window being inserted into the receiving space the first lip adjoins the first side of the upper end of the window and adjoins the edge of the window and the second lip adjoins the second side of the upper end of the window.

Abstract: There is provided an automotive weather strip for sealing a gap between an open/close member of a vehicle body opening and a peripheral part of the vehicle body opening, having a trim portion mounted on a flange and a hollow seal portion provided integrally on the trim portion. The trim portion is provided with at least a bottom wall and an exterior side wall. A pressure sensitive adhesive double sided tape is adhered to an interior side surface of the exterior side wall to thereby be bonded to the flange. A caulking sponge is mounted on an inner surface of the bottom wall so as to seal a distal end of the flange. The caulking sponge is formed such that an interior end portion thereof protrudes from the bottom wall more largely than any other portions thereof.

Abstract: A generator controller, in its various embodiments, displays genset fault messages, a genset elapsed time hour meter, service countdown reminder, monitors battery voltage changes over multiple periods of time to establish and display the “battery level,” uses the “battery level” to automatically start and stop the genset, and accepts multiple run requests from AC loads such as HVAC systems, and incorporates safety or other start inhibit features.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for polishing pad comprising a polymeric material having pores and a component that is disposed within the pores.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a saw blade for diamond milling. More particularly, the surface of the cylinder metal or the shaped metal can be opened with multiple parallel spaces, or with cross mode. Also, the surface of the cylinder metal or the shaped metal can have the embedded groove with circular, vertical, or spiral shape for positioning diamond grains. As well, the metal surface is extruded by the formed jig, and the embedded groove is deformed and extrudes inwardly for embedding the diamond grains. Further, the surface can be electroplated with a metal electroplated layer, an electroplated layer with diamond grains, a metal layer by sintering, or a metal layer with diamond grains. The metal electroplated layer and the metal layer by sintering can increase the firmness for diamond grains. Moreover, the electroplated layer with diamond grains, or the metal layer with diamond grains can increase the life cycle and milling performance.

Abstract: The instant invention relates to an infinitely adjustable anchoring system for attaching structural members to a support member. The system comprises a continuous, elongated, removable retaining track secured to the outer surface of a support member and configured to receive at least one adjustable connector plate therein. The adjustable connector plates are capable of attaching to structural members having various dimensions and pitches relative to the track. The invention includes a reusable centering bracket assembly used to install a retaining track assembly along an upper portion of a support member.

Abstract: A bird deterrent has a base and at least one branched spike extending from the base. The branching can occur anywhere along the spike, and a single branch point can give rise to multiple branches. Spikes can have multiple branches. The various branches can be of any suitable length(s), and can be oriented in any suitable direction(s).

Abstract: An apparatus including a ground anchor having an elongated member which has a chisel-shaped, substantially straight front end portion and which also has at least two flanges extending outwardly from the elongated member along an imaginary longitudinal axis of the elongated member. The flanges include two wing-like flanges disposed in the same imaginary plane. Assemblies and methods for anchoring a structure to the ground using the apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A window frame with self-aligning and self-attaching means is disclosed. The Frame includes two interlocking frame members for securing the frame to a structure such as a door and for securing a window within the frame. The frame can be installed with no tools or screws and can be easily disassembled by inserting a nail into the frame and forcing the frame members apart.

Abstract: A universal post top cap for street signs and traffic signs. The cap has a threaded central opening that allows threaded bar stock of different lengths to be inserted into the opening and to be locked into position by a threaded locking nut. Thus allowing the cap to be used interchangeably for different signs.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for forming a drainage conduit including a body portion, a level indicator affixed to the body portion operable for indicating a pitch of the body portion, and a handle affixed to the body portion, wherein the handle is operable to adjust the pitch of the body portion. The body portion of the apparatus includes a lower portion including a first end and a second end and a front portion affixed to the first end of the lower portion, wherein the front portion may have a width greater than the lower portion.

Abstract: A substantially rectangular hollow door for use as one of a screen door and a storm door, the substantially rectangular hollow door comprises a pair of stiles, each stile of the pair of stiles having a first end and a second end. There are a pair of rails. A top rail is disposed closely adjacent and connected to the first end of the pair of stiles and a bottom rail is disposed closely adjacent and connected to the second end of the pair of stiles thereby forming the substantially rectangular door. A center rail is disposed at substantially a midpoint of the top and the bottom rail. Such center rail is engagable with the first and the second stile and a vertical member is disposed between the center rail and the bottom rail, such vertical member disposed at substantially a midpoint of center rail and bottom rail.

Abstract: A ceiling system having a primary grid network which includes a plurality of grid members that are in generally perpendicular relation and form points of intersection. The ceiling system includes one or more joint clips, each of which is attached to the grid network at a point of intersection. Each joint clip partitions the primary grid network into smaller networks, which move independently of one another. At the same time, the appearance of an overall primary grid network is preserved.

Abstract: The adjustable floor system is for installation inside a repair pit and preferably comprises top and bottom parts, a floor mounted on the top part, two folding leg assemblies distal from each other, connected between the top and bottom parts and movable between folded and unfolded positions and cylinders for moving the folding leg assemblies between the folded position where the floor is adjacent to a bottom surface of the repair pit and the unfolded position where the floor fills an upper opening of the repair pit. Preferably, the floor comprises elements and the adjustable floor system comprises a stair frame having steps. The elements of the floor are positioned over the steps of the stair frame when the folding leg assemblies are in the unfolded position, the elements laying down respectively on the steps while the folding leg assemblies are moving from the unfolded position to the folded position.

Abstract: A skylight is formed with a pair of plastic panels having a similarly sized outer peripheral flange and a central region transparent to visible light, aligned in a stacked orientation with the peripheral flanges overlying one another and defining an enclosed central region in-between. Elongated two-sided elastic tape seal is interposed between and bonded to the outer peripheral flanges of elastic panels to form a sealed enclosed region. A peripheral frame is formed in situ about the plastic panels from a moldable polymeric material which entraps the peripheral flanges forming an elite tray type structure with the elastic two-sided tape preventing intrusion of the moldable polymeric frame material into the enclosed region.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a shear connector having perforated and/or cut-out plates. In a T-shaped steel plate having a certain length, there are provided a plurality of through holes at a flange and a web. The flanges may be cut-out in biased method, and a plurality of through holes may be formed at the web. In the present invention, it is possible to achieve a perfect combination or a partial combination effect between a steel material and concrete. In addition, it is possible to enhance a weight resistance ability and a resistance ability with respect to transformation in such a manner that weight transfer function is provided between different materials.

Abstract: A draining apparatus and method for use in the construction of buildings having a stucco interior. The apparatus has a drain section and a screen coupled thereto. The drain section consists of a series of channels formed by a plurality of knobs, which in one embodiment may be formed into a plurality of aligned columns. The apparatus is coupled to a building foundation, at a level where it can facilitate positive drainage of water that has migrated downward through the stucco.

Abstract: An apparatus for making inflated articles from a film web having two juxtaposed film plies. One version of the apparatus generally includes a first rotary sealing device for producing transverse seals that bond the film plies together, an inflation assembly for directing gas between the film plies, and a second rotary sealing device for producing a longitudinal seal between the film plies. The longitudinal seal intersects the transverse seals so that the gas is enclosed between the longitudinal seal, transverse seals, and film plies to thereby form an inflated article.

Abstract: A clip control system is described. The invention in a first embodiment is a clip control system comprising a stuffer/clipper comprising a reader and a processing unit and having an operating parameter, a clip package mountable to the stuffer/clipper and holding a plurality of clips, and information encoded in the clip package and readable by the reader, the processing unit configured to receive the information and to set the operating parameter based thereon. The clip package is a reel or a canister. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a clip package holding a plurality of clips and being mountable to a stuffer/clipper having a reader. The clip package has information encoded therein and readable by the reader. In either embodiment, the information is encoded in an RFID tag, a bar code, or a magnetic strip. The reader is a RFID reader, a bar code reader, or a magnetic strip reader. The information is product-specific information and can also include the identity of the clip manufacturer.