Abstract: The present invention comprehends a tool for cutting fine kernels of corn from ears of corn, comprising generally U-shaped guide having two ends, with each end defining a slit. Each slit is adapted to frictionally situate the blade of a knife therein. A horizontal member connects each end at the base of each end, and the horizontal member is positioned offset from and parallel to the center axis of the guide such that when said blade is axially and centrally positioned between the slits of the tabs, the blade is parallel to and offset from the horizontal member. In this configuration, the horizontal member acts as a guide so that when the blade is forced down an ear of corn the size of the corn kernels removed from the ear remain consistently fine.

Abstract: An atomically sharpened cutting edge for a cutting instrument is described. Focused ion beam (FIB) milling provides the atomically sharp cutting edge. In one embodiment, a cutting edge blank is provided and milled by FIB to form an atomically sharp edge. In another embodiment, a metal cutting edge blank is provided, a layer of a harder material is provided on at least one side of the blank and it is milled by FIB to form an atomically sharp edge.

Abstract: A fastening device for pneumatic saw comrpising a body portion and a guide member mounted on the front end of the body poetion; the center thereof is mounted with a movable guide assembly connected together with a power transmission shaft; one side of the movable guide assembly is furnished with two screw holes for receiving two screw bolts respectively; the center cylindrical hole of the movable guide assembly is loaded with a chuck cylinder, which is connected with the movable guide assembly by means of screw threads therein; the chuck cylinder is furnished with a long slot; one side of the long slot has a cylindrival hole for receiving a saw blade; the cylindrical hole of the long slot is opposite to a screw hole on one side of the movable guide assembly; after a screw bolt is screwed into the screw hole, it will press the saw blade firmly in place; one side of the movable guide assembly has another screw hole for receiving another screw bolt so as to have the chuck cylinder fastened firmly in the cylindri

Abstract: A guide device for pneumatic saw comprises a fixed member at the front end of th epneumatic saw; the fixed member has a recess channel, in which a fastening plate is mounted by means of screws; the front end of the fastening plate is furnished with a U-shaped plate; the U-shaped plate is furnished with two side plates, between which a gudie wheel with a shaft is mounted; both ends of the shaft are mounted in two round holes in the two side plates respectively; the guide wheel mounted in the U-shaped plate has a wheel groove to be in contact with the flat surface of the saw blade so as to provide the saw blade with a guide and fulcrum effect during the saw blade moving back and forth.

Abstract: A shaving implement includes a handle fabricated from a soft, flexible and non-meltable material incapable of taking an edge or a point capable of penetrating human skin, and a frangible razor blade.

Abstract: A method and a unit for determining the spatial position of a wheel rim with respect to a measuring unit having at least one camera, wherein the wheel rim lies in the viewing field of the camera, including making available of a model, that describes a model body of a localizable wheel rim geometry detail as well as the spatial position of the model body with respect to the measuring unit, through model parameters, capturing of a picture of the wheel rim geometry detail of the wheel rim with the camera, fitting the image of the model body resulting from the model parameters to the picture of the wheel rim geometry detail through changing the model parameters of the model, and tracking the changes of the model parameters upon the fitting, whereby the data related to the position of the model body of the wheel rim geometry detail reflect the spatial position of the wheel rim-geometry detail and, thereby, the wheel rim itself, when the image resulting from the model parameters, of the wheel rim-geometry detail fi

Abstract: A celestial object locating device according to the present disclosure enables a user to unambiguously identify one or more stars or other celestial objects. The celestial object locating device may also direct a user to a desired celestial object or objects. The device may be useful for locating or identifying stars, constellations, and deep sky objects without knowing a users location or time of day. The celestial object locating device determines the angle between selected visible stars and compares these angles to angles between known stars to determine the location of all other stars. The device includes a 3-axis magnetic field sensor and a 3-axis gravitational field sensor that operate with a processor and an electronic database to perform the required calculations. The device's database may be updated using any suitable method such as flash drives, network connections or other.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward portable visible light beam pointing devices for set out, marking, and other handyman purposes, and thumb pressure mounted fixtures fashioned as hooks, hook racks, wall mounts, and the like. The pointing devices include a light beam generator, and a pair of orthogonal bubble vials for indicating the orientation of the pointing device along orthogonal axes in a horizontal plane. The thumb pressure mounted fixtures have a body member and at least one thumb tack-like member with a central portion having a steel spike transversely directed relative to the body member for driving into a supporting surface. The thumb tack-like members are intended to be manually collapsible from an arc shaped inoperative configuration with a concealed spike to a generally M-shaped operative configuration with an exposed spike for driving into a supporting surface.

Abstract: A two-axis geomagnetic sensor is disclosed. The two-axis geomagnetic sensor includes a first geomagnetic sensor part including a first wafer and a first geomagnetic sensor on a surface of the first wafer; and a second geomagnetic sensor part including a second wafer and a second geomagnetic sensor on a surface of the second wafer. The first and second geomagnetic sensor parts are bonded to each other, in which the first and second geomagnetic sensors positioned in an orthogonal relation to each other. Accordingly, an occupancy area of the geomagnetic sensor can be reduced. Further, the geomagnetic sensor on each axe can have the same magnetic material properties, and alignment deviation cannot be generated.

Abstract: A gravity pendulum, referred to as a low-displacement pendulum because it does not displace air as it rotates, is disclosed. The low-displacement pendulum uses an unbalanced wheel instead of the more conventional suspended bob. Because the pendulum does not displace air as it rotates, it eliminates an important component of air drag that causes energy loss in a normal pendulum. The low-displacement pendulum also eliminates errors caused by variations in barometric pressure. In addition, it can be easily thermally compensated without the use of special materials, such as Invar.

Abstract: An angle measuring device with two pivotable arms connected at a common point is disclosed. The first arm contains a rigidly linked shaft which connects the first arm to a second arm rotatable relative to the first arm. A first electronic sensor, such as a magnetic rotary encoder, determines the angle between the arms. Optionally, a second electronic sensor, such as an accelerometer, determines the angle of orientation of an arm with reference to the plane of the Earth. The microcontroller can be used to aggregate the output of the magnetic rotary encoder with the accelerometers, so as to calculate the angle from the plane of the Earth up to the first arm of the angle measuring device.

Abstract: Push Mark consists of a pin with an adhesive coating or other attachment mechanism. The adhesive coating of the head or other attachment mechanism is attached to the back of a picture frame or other hanging instrument in approximately the spot where a nail or hanger will support it against a wall. Once the adhesive coating or other attachment mechanism is put in place, the frame or other hanging instrument is pressed firmly against the wall, allowing the pin to leave a mark where the nail or nails will be placed for hanging the frame or instrument.

Abstract: The invention comprises a universal template tape for use in construction, home improvement and various crafts. The tape has an adhesive backing, while the non-adhesive side of the tape bears a regularly spaced set of indicia. The indicia include a combination of distance markers perpendicular to the edges off the tape. The indicia further include a grid of regularly spaced parallel lines forming a forty-five degree angle with the edges of the tape. The various embodiments of the universal template tape include combinations of different distance markers and grids.

Abstract: Disclosed methods and systems feature a portable device for wirelessly receiving a measurement of an object and transmitting the measurement and an object identifier. The device includes two communication modules and a memory. The first communication module receives a first wireless signal that corresponds to the measurement of the object. The memory stores the measurement derived from the first wireless signal in association with the object identifier. The second communication module transmits a second wireless signal that corresponds to the measurement and the objection identifier.

Abstract: There is provided, a system that includes (a) a source of light having a wavelength of less than or equal to about 193 nm, (b) an optical element having a region for directing the light, (c) an arrangement for cleaning the region, and (d) a chamber to accommodate the region during the cleaning.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of drying clothing. The method of drying clothing involves providing a dryer, preferably a coin-operated clothes dryer. The dryer contains a heat source in thermal communication with the dryer. Next, a user inserts clothes into the dryer and initiates a drying cycle to reduce the overall moisture within the clothes. To initiate a drying cycle, the user purchases a predetermined period of time that is at least one block of time. The dryer is turned on and the heat source is then operated at a first drying temperature, preferably 160° F., while a sensor detects the level of moisture within the clothes. Once the level of moisture within the clothes is below a predetermined level, the heat source is lowered to a second operating temperature, preferably 100° F. This method of reducing heat conserves energy to operate the dryer and helps avoid over-drying of clothes.

Abstract: Sole for footwear with ventilation induced by the Venturi effect is the present invention. An insole is superimposed that includes a plurality of holes for the passage of air from the sole towards the interior of the shoe. The sole includes at least one inlet opening placed on the lateral frontal surface and at least one outlet opening placed on the back lateral surface. The inlet opening and outlet opening of an airflow channel are each provided respectively with a sliding shutter that reduces the incoming airflow and a sliding shutter that reduces the outgoing airflow and a plurality of air inlet holes made on the insole to make the air enter and exit in correspondence with the foot.

Abstract: A footwear member includes a set of stretchable fastening members that allow a user to select and attach those fastening members that provide the best fit. Each selected fastening member is attached at its opposite ends to connection structures that are paired. For example, the paired connection structures may be two posts that have grooves in order to properly seat and retain the ends of the fastening members. Two acceptable materials for forming the fastening members are rubber and urethane. The fastening members may be referred to as “bungee cords.” There are at least two different lengths of fastening members in order to provide selection on the basis of the shape or size of a user's foot. Selection of the proper “bungee cord” also applies to an attachment at the Achilles area of the wearer's foot.

Abstract: A sole (10) for footwear has a plurality of x-shaped pillars (30), preferably made of rubber or other elastomer. The x-shaped pillars (30) are vertical columns in the cross-sectional shape of an “X” having a wider base towards the inside of the footwear and extending, preferable in steps, to a narrower cross-section at the walking surface. The x-shaped pillars are preferably aligned longitudinally on the sole so that the arms of the x-shaped pillar face forward, rearward and to both sides of the footwear. This longitudinal orientation is preferred because it promotes gripping the engaged surface along the vertices of the x-shaped pillar, providing enhanced traction in the longitudinal and lateral directions. One embodiment has a plurality of channels (20) or cut throughs on a frame surrounding the x-shaped pillars and extending from the base of the x-shaped pillars through the frame to permit ejection of matter engaged between the x-shaped pillars.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a crampon having a movable spike element in the rotation structure for both walking or climbing to improve walking convenience and safety of a user. The crampon according to the present invention comprises a binding bend; a main plate to be mounted to a sole of a climbing shoe; supporting shafts; movable spike elements axially coupled with the supporting shafts; pins fitted into the supporting shafts perpendicularly to the shafts; and rotating locking levers.

Abstract: This invention elevates the midsection of the foot when shoeless, addressing congenital flatness, or lapsing or pronation in the arch. The device, which can be constructed of various materials, does not continue to the metatarsus or heel, and is attached to the foot by lateral straps or stretchable bands, either singular or in two pieces closed by a snap, buckle, velcro or similar fastener, and adding a heel or, ankle strap or band if greater stability is desired. It may be worn inside or over stockings, and feature assorted shapes, textures, coloration, and decoration. The invention can also serve as an orthotic for barefoot runners or dancers by means of longitudinal extension, with openings under the metatarsus and heel so these areas may touch the ground or floor, and employ additional straps or bands. This device is contraindicated as a diagnostic or therapeutic aid, without the intent of medical application.

Abstract: A foot insert is provided that is capable of providing protective cushioning to an area at the front of a wearer's foot including an area extending from the front tips of the toes to the metatarsal region of the ball portion of the foot. The foot insert includes a half-sock formed from a stretchable fabric material and is capable of extending over a toe portion up to about a mid-point of a length of a wearer's foot. A cushioning pad is attached to a lower sole portion of the half-sock and is formed from a shape-memory material that is capable of substantially permanently molding into a shape of a bottom portion and toes of the wearer's foot upon use.

Abstract: The present invention provides soles, platforms, or inserts incorporated into footwear, preferably athletic footwear, designed to promote a more efficient running technique by an energy-translating sole comprising one or more angular displacement members, balance-thrust members, and counterbalance as well as conventional features. Systems and methods of the present invention promote more efficient running technique by facilitating foot-strike to occur at a point under and behind the runner's center of gravity. This may be accomplished, for example, by a foot-strike member, angular displacement member and balance-thrust member working cooperatively to displace the runner's center of gravity and translate gravitational, inertial and ground reaction forces, as well as muscular tension forces, into linear momentum.

Abstract: The heel-insole combination of the invention, that is applicable to women shoes, has the particularity that the insole incorporates, corresponding to the bridge area a rigid and laminar piece, being positioned so that it is laterally shifted towards the inner edge of said insole, that is, the area where the curvature of the bridge is more curved. Said piece is a reinforcement means of the area where it is placed, allowing that the entire user foot leans completely in the insole. This provides a greater comfort and avoids possible damage to the foot. On the other side, the heel has a forward extension that exceeds the area where the rigid and laminar piece is placed. This forward extension has a depression constituting a zone of positioning and adaptation for the piece which will constitute the base of the respective woman's footwear or shoe to which the described combination is applied.

Abstract: A method is provided for manufacturing a layered memory object. The method includes the operation of producing a first coin layer from a precious metal using mass production techniques. A second coin layer can be created using a material that is less expensive than the first coin layer. The second coin layer can be customized with a customizable image. The first and second coin layers can be adhered together. The customized image can be configured to be viewed by a coin viewer.

Abstract: A method for creating a standard type greeting card constructed of standard paper stock which in addition to delivering written text and artwork to the recipient, can also deliver a physical hug to the recipient as the surrogate of the sender, the process comprising the steps of selecting a paper stock that can accept and retain written text and/or artwork and which will, when held in a coiled position for a length of time, assume a coil-biased condition that will gently resist unraveling, and when initially unraveled, will bias back towards the coiled condition; adding printing and artwork as desired to the paper stock while that stock is in its flat condition; cutting the stock into the overall desired shape of the greeting card; rolling the now cut paper stock greeting card into a scroll-type configuration; and inserting the scrolled card into a tubular container that can also be used as the shipping container for the card, such that the container becomes part of the manufacturing process by which the desi

Abstract: An organized, efficient and aesthetically pleasing multi-greeting card package. In one form, the package is a greeting card book including a binding element and a plurality of cards. Each of the plurality of cards includes a bottom portion, a top portion and a fold seam between the top and bottom portions. The bottom portion has an edge removably bound to the binding element such that when the bottom portion is bound to the binding element, the top portion is pivotal at the fold seam between a first folded position, wherein the top portion overlies the bottom portion, and a second extended position, wherein the top portion is pivoted away from the bottom portion.

Abstract: A plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) disposed in a customized housing produce bright colored light simulating the appearance of a neon sign. The housing includes an opaque portion that reflects light from the LEDs and a translucent portion shaped in the form of an image or lettering that diffuses light from the LEDs. The inside surface of the opaque portion has a polished reflective surface while the outside surface has a dull textured surface. Light emanating from the LEDs propagates through the translucent portion of the housing appearing to a viewer as a bright uniform and colorful light similar in appearance to the light emitted from a neon sign.

Abstract: The invention relates to a board that can be used especially as a board for a door in offices or administrative buildings. A base body (1) of said board comprises guiding grooves (2, 3) for an information carrier (4), on two opposing edges thereof, and a cover (5). Clamping slides (15) that can be introduced into a central groove (6) of the base body (1) are used to secure the position of the information carrier (4) and the cover (5), at least one of said slides being provided preferably with at least one display panel (23) that can be pivoted back and forth.

Abstract: A three-dimensional display header for point-of-purchase displays is provided, which is pivotably movable from a stowed, flattened position atop a display topper, to a deployed, three-dimensional upright display position. In a first embodiment, the display header has a U-shaped configuration in its deployed position, while in a second embodiment, it has a box-shaped configuration in its deployed position.

Abstract: An identification band includes an elongated member having a front face and a rear face, and having a first opening therein adjacent a first end and a series of openings therein adjacent a second end, the elongated member being formed from a material adapted to accept digital printing ink. A stud is disposed in the first opening, the stud adapted to be passed through one of the series of openings after the band is wrapped around an object. A digital image is printed on at least one of the front face and the rear face of the elongated member, the digital image being composed of digital printing ink.

Abstract: A key ring display device a key ring receptacle and a display tab, the display tab having a first display field with a three dimensional display element and a second display field with a written information display element.

Abstract: There are disclosed embodiments of a marking clip for marking garments which may be stacked flat on a surface. The marking clip is generally U-shaped with leg portions joined by a bight portion and is preferably molded of flexible, resilient, plastics material and bears repetitive indicia along the outer surface of the leg and bight portions. Two or more marking clips may be coupled to provide selected combinations.

Abstract: A clip assembly for storing a clip. Particularly, a clip assembly employing a clip and a base, wherein the base includes an extension portion and an attachment portion. Additionally, the clip can be a hat clip which can be joined with a base so that the clip assembly can be attached to a surface and the hat clip can be stored when not in use.

Abstract: The novelty display device has a body shaped to represent a substantial portion of a scaled reduction of a game ball belonging to a sport. An image or indicia associated with the sport is displayed on a flat surface formed on the body.

Abstract: A fishing rod provides a lighting system that includes a timer circuit and a motion responsive switch. In response to motion, the timer circuit activates lights to illuminate the fishing rod for a pre-determined interval. The circuit extinguishes the lights at the end of the interval. Preferably, the fishing rod is fabricated of a translucent material and the lights are LEDs housed within the core of the fishing rod.

Abstract: A fishing lure having a rattling assembly for attracting fish, wherein the sound of the rattling assembly is adjustable. The rattling assembly includes a rattle member and a rod member positioned inside a cavity defined in the body of the fishing lure. The rod member traverses the exterior surface of the fishing lure into the cavity, such that the position of the rod member will determine the ability of the rattling member to travel within the cavity to strike the walls of the cavity.

Abstract: A multipurpose caddy (12) especially designed for boat seats (16) is provided which an elongated plate (42) located beneath seat (16) and of a length to present segments (50,52) each extending laterally beyond a side marginal surface (34) of the seat (16). The plate segments (50,52) are each equipped with utility holders (54-58), preferably in the form of beverage container holders (54,56) and a utility box (58). The caddy (12) also has a fishing rod holder (64) designed to hold the handle end of a fishing rod and oriented obliquely for convenient rod holding. The caddy (12) is secured between a seat support (14 ) and a seat (16), by means of mounting screws (26) extending through the support (14), plate (42) and received within the seat (16).

Abstract: There is provided an apparatus for dispensing products that includes a theft deterrent retail product dispensing hook. In certain embodiments, the hook prevents product “sweeping” (where a thief quickly empties a conventional retail hook of product) and also delivers a time-delayed delivery of product per hook. A specific embodiment of a time-delay display hook system comprises a two-prong system having an upper member and a lower member, with the upper member supporting g a dispensing system and the lower member supporting a product to be dispensed. Upon triggering of an activation member, the dispensing system releases a single product and provides a time-delay between dispending of further product.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for exterminating subterranean burrowing air-breathing animals which burrow subterranean tunnels having burrow hole openings at ground level, the apparatus including an elongate arm having a base end and an opposite distal end, a frame mounted to a vehicle, the base end of the arm mounted to the frame, a selectively actuable actuator mounted so as to cooperate between the frame and the arm, at least one reservoir of a lethal substance, conduits cooperating between the reservoirs and the arm for carrying the lethal substance to deliver the lethal substance from the distal end of the arm into the burrow hole openings, wherein positioning the arm and delivering the lethal substance is remotely actuable from within the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to Compositions of fuels for transportation are disclosed, particularly organic compositions which are liquid at ambient conditions. More specifically, it relates to transportation fuels comprising suitable organic distillates, as a predominant component, and limited, but essential, amounts of a component comprising oxygen-containing organic materials, which materials are typically derived from natural petroleum. Beneficially, the oxygen content of these transportation fuels is at least 0.02 percent by weight. Preferably the oxygen content these transportation fuels is in a range from about 0.2 percent to about 10 percent by weight.

Abstract: A composition for use in preventing deposits in an engine and/or fouling of injectors is prepared by reacting (a) an alkenyl-substituted succinic acid having a molecular weight of about 250 to about 3000 and (b) a polyaziridine having an average molecular weight of about 250 to about 5000.

Abstract: A process for producing biofuels by transforming triglycerides into at least two families of biofuels, monoesters of fatty acids and soluble ethers and/or acetals of glycerol, comprises: at least one transesterification step in which said triglyceride is reacted by heterogeneous catalysis with at least one primary monoalcohol selected from methanol and ethanol to produce at least one methyl and/or ethyl ester of the fatty acids of the starting triglycerides and glycerol, said products being free of by-products; and an etherification step in which the glycerol is reacted with at least one olefinic hydrocarbon containing 4 to 12 carbon atoms; and/or an acetalization step in which the glycerol is reacted with at least one compound selected from aldehydes, ketones and acetals derived from aldehydes or ketones.

Abstract: A compressed wafer mulch, the compressed wafer mulch including corn stover fibers, paper fibers, compost or a mixture thereof, and a method of making the same.

Abstract: A crop production apparatus including a flexible sheet of non-degradable or biodegradable material and a seed impregnated or carrying lower layer formed from a water-absorbent biodegradable material bonded or otherwise attached to the upper layer and removable therefrom.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the method for hydroponic plant culture of the present invention, a hydroponic plant culture container is used which comprises an external container that holds water, and an internal container that is held inside the external container, is placed on and supported by the upper edge portion of the external container, and is filled with a growing medium with seeds sown on the upper surface side thereof These containers both are formed from a transparent or semitransparent synthetic resin. The internal container is a funnel-shaped container including a cup-shaped portion and a cylindrical portion extending downward from a central part of the bottom of this cup-shaped portion.

Abstract: A hydrogen fueling system uses solid and/or liquid material(s) to create hydrogen-bearing gas inside one or more fuel compartments. A fuel compartment may be of any size or shape, and its wall(s) may be single- or multi-layered, and of any total thickness. Solid, liquid, and/or gaseous material(s) may flow through one or more entry/exit ports in an individual compartment, or in two or more compartments. If the fueling system contains two or more compartments, material(s) may flow into, or out of, individual compartments in series or in parallel—e.g., sequentially or simultaneously, and hydrogen-bearing gas may flow from one compartment to another. However, solids and liquids do not flow between individual compartments. Hydrogen-bearing gas may be produced inside a compartment by: a reduction in gas pressure, creation of heat from one or more internal or external sources, and/or the occurrence of one or more chemical reactions.

Abstract: A door opening or closing detecting device and an image forming apparatus including a shaft member which is provided to a housing slidably along one end of a door, and urged to be brought into pressure contact with a pressing member through a pressure contact member, the shaft member being slid by the pressing member which moves with opening/closing of the door. The opening/closing of the door is detected by a detecting portion according to sliding of the shaft member, and a power supply is interrupted by a switch portion. The door opening or closing detecting apparatus and the image forming apparatus are capable of reliably detecting the opening/closing of the door and appropriately interrupting the power supply while achieving space saving and reduction in size of the apparatus.

Abstract: A screen system for providing cover may has a structural frame; at least one screen panel; a fastenable connection system between one side of the structural frame and an opposed side of the at least one screen panel, and a grasping element extending out of or into a side of the screen panel opposite the opposed side of the at least one screen panel. Force can be applied to the grasping element to disengage the fastenable connection system while retaining structure in the fastenable connection system so that a disengaged screen panel can be reattached to the structural frame.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a mechanism for the opening and for the shutting of a window, particularly designed for use in the emergency windows of a public transportation vehicle provided with a lower release and locking window (1) system and another upper system that allows for the scaling when opening it, considering the fact that the lower system is actuated by means of a lever (5) that extends along the lower extremity of the window (1), which allows for its actuation by any passenger positioned in its proximity.