Abstract: A thinner shoe mounted receptacle results from a thin cleat attachment flange received in a shallow receptacle cavity. An angled interface between the cleat and receptacle provide a friction fit engagement to minimize inadvertent disengagement of the cleat and receptacle. Rotational locking occurring inside or outside the cavity further prevents inadvertent cleat rotation. Multiple positionally synchronized angular stops positively define the final angular orientation of the cleat in the receptacle.

Abstract: A shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are located in a forefoot portion of the shoe between an upper and an outsole of the shoe, and one or more springs for biasing the first plate and the second plate apart from each other. A device for a shoe includes a first plate and a second plate that are installable in a forefoot portion of the shoe, and an energy return member positioned between the first plate and the second plate. A method of using a shoe includes applying, with a foot, a force on at least one of two plates that is positioned in a forefoot portion of a shoe, so as to move the two plates together and increase a loading of a spring, and launching the foot due to the two plates being moved apart by the spring as the foot is being lifted.

Abstract: An athletic shoe includes an upper, an outsole, a pair of hinged plates, and a spring. The pair of hinged plates are attached between the outsole and the upper in a forefoot portion of the shoe, and the spring biases the plates apart, so that energy is stored and returned during a propulsion phase of a gait cycle in a human step. Foam may be disposed between the plates. A shroud may enclose an outer periphery of the plates. An adjustable torsion spring may be disposed in a hinge portion of the plates, and one or more wave springs may be disposed between the plates.

Abstract: Ski-touring boot comprising a shell, a toe provided with a hole on each side for engagement with a corresponding pin of ski bindings and a sole, comprising means for guiding and actuating said pins comprising a frusto-pyramidal seat, the larger base of which forms the bottom part open below the sole and the sides of which extending in the transverse direction (Y-Y) are inclined towards the inside of the seat so as to form elements for guiding the pin in the vertical direction and the surface of which situated inside the boot is inclined upwards and outwards so as to form the element for performing opening in the transverse direction (Y-Y) of the said pins.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed. The article of footwear includes an outsole with a circular tread pattern. The circular tread pattern provides sufficient traction in all directions but also allows the wearer to pivot about a pivot portion. The circular tread pattern is generally large, and in some cases, the first and smallest circular tread extends less than 360 degrees. The pivot portion can include a slot that aids in flexibility. The outsole can also include a different tread pattern for the heel portion, or the circular tread pattern may also extend into the heel portion.

Abstract: A thin-type spike intensifying structure is formed by bending a predetermined plate with a punch finishing work. The thin-type spike includes an assembly part and a spike sheet, wherein the assembly part provides for fixing and assembling the spike at a bottom of a sports shoe, and the spike sheet is disposed at a side of the assembly part and manifests an arc-shape design through bending and protrusion. By the arc-shape structure design, a rigid structure of the spike is intensified, and the spike can be manufactured with a thin metal, such that the spike can be firm and tolerable, and a product can be lighter, in order to improve its practicability and advancement.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a machine configured so that its ground speed is at least in part dependent on the measured force that is applied to an attachment attached thereto. The present disclosure also provides an attachment for a machine that is configured to provide feedback to the machine it is configured to be attached to, wherein the feedback is representative of the force applied to the attachment. The present disclosure also provides a method of automatically controlling the ground speed of a machine based on feedback measured in an attachment attached to the machine.

Abstract: An arrangement for suspension of an operator cab on a machine frame in order to permit controlled motion of the cab relative to the frame is provided. The arrangement includes at least one first suspension member disposed between an underside of the cab and the frame for supporting the cab on the frame. The arrangement further includes at least one second suspension member disposed between a rear side of the cab and a rigid support structure and wherein the second suspension member is arranged at an elevated position relative to the underside of the cab. The second suspension member is adapted to provide an increased rigidity against cab movements both in the longitudinal and lateral direction of the machine during operation of the work machine.

Abstract: A replacement and urging device for the bucket teeth of an engineering construction machine is disclosed. An adaptor is mounted with a bucket tooth. A first through hole holes horizontally through the adaptor. Both sides of the bucket tooth are formed with a second through hole, respectively. An engaging unit is interposed between the first through hole and the second through hole to slide between them. This enables the bucket tooth to be mounted and positioned on the adaptor. The invention thus prevents the bucket tooth from constantly hitting the adaptor.

Abstract: A low temperature steam control system of an electric steam iron includes a low temperature water discharge valve and a high temperature water discharge valve, which may be controlled by a low temperature bi-metal plate and a high temperature bi-metal plate respectively. Each bi-metal plate may include two overlaying metal plates with different thermal expansion coefficients. When the soleplate is heated by a heating element to a first temperature, the low temperature bi-metal plate can flex and open the low temperature water discharge valve allowing water to flow from a water tank into a vaporization chamber. When the soleplate is further heated by the heating element to a second temperature, the high temperature bi-metal plate can flex and open the high temperature water discharge valve allowing additional water to flow from the water tank into the vaporization chamber.

Abstract: An electric iron includes a control panel, a circuit board, and a temperature sensor provided on a soleplate. The temperature sensor is connected to the circuit board which is in turn connected to the control panel. The control panel includes a synchronizing temperature display, a temperature setting button, and a plurality of temperature setting indicators. The temperature setting button is employed to set a desired temperature, and the synchronizing temperature display is employed to indicate the actual temperature at the soleplate during ironing.

Abstract: A wall-mounted, self-storing ironing board includes an elongated ironing platform connected to a turntable by a pivot pin located approximately at a center point of the platform, thereby providing a fall 360° rotation of the platform when the ironing board is in the horizontal use position. Rotation of the platform 90° clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the turntable allows the user to stand directly opposite either end of the platform and to use either end in ironing an article of clothing. In another embodiment, the pivot pin is located forward of a linkage that connects the turntable to a wall-mounted casing and allows for the turntable to move between a vertical stored position and the horizontal use position.

Abstract: A frame device for mounting a license plate on a vehicle body includes a frame member and a plurality of screw fasteners. The frame member includes a frame body in a form of a loop, and upper and lower fastener tabs. The frame body has upper and lower frame edge portions. Each upper fastener tab is formed with a fastener hole and is extended rearwardly then downwardly from the upper frame edge portion to form a downward gap for extension of an upper part of the license plate therein. Each lower fastener tab is formed with a fastener hole and is extended rearwardly then upwardly from the lower frame edge portion to form an upward gap for extension of a lower part of the license plate therein. Each screw fastener is extended through the fastener hole in a respective fastener tab for securing the frame member onto the vehicle body.

Abstract: A message generating apparatus is disclosed. A message generating apparatus, comprising: a message generating panel, the message generating panel comprising a first layer and a second layer, the first layer comprising a first base substance and a first see-through pattern. a light transparency of the first see-through pattern being higher than a light transparency of the first base substance, the second layer comprising a second base substance and a second see-through pattern, a light transparency of the second see-through pattern being higher than a light transparency of the second base substance is provided. The message generating panel can be configured to generate a message by a light having passed through the first see-through pattern and the second see-through pattern. The first see-through pattern and the second see-through pattern can be configured to generate a plurality of messages according to an angle of the light incident to the message generating panel.

Abstract: The “Shadows of Light . . . Light Box” consists of a custom built wooden decorative shadow box. Inside the enclosed box are glass panes methodically situated, creating visual layers of inspirational depictions. The unique construction of the box provides a constant visual message designed to inspire ones personal fulfillment. A protective first glass pane, second pane with custom depiction, a depiction affixed to the back of a mottled section of glass creates a “one of one”, unique, visually multidimensional message. When illuminated, the multi faceted depictions create an illusion of gazing into a universe of stars. These boxes may be used in an individuals home or business for the purpose of décor, or for advertisement of product at retail. The message depictions are wide ranging, consisting of, but not limited to biblical verses, sports memorabilia, personalized inspirational messages, retail or commercial advertisements, awards, in memory of remembrances.

Abstract: An identification apparatus and methods of use are presented. Embodiments include a loop of flexible material, having an exterior surface. Indicia, identifying an organization, is displayed on at least a portion of the exterior surface. A container is provided to store the loop of flexible material. Some embodiments couple the container with a belt or other article of clothing or clothing accessory. The loop of flexible material may be coupled with the container. The container may serve as an anchoring point for one or more methods of displaying the loop of flexible material. Some methods of use position the loop of flexible material over portions of a user's body. Some methods of use permit one hand operation of the apparatus.

Abstract: A frame for attachment to a truck panel or a wall for holding a banner having a top base plate, a left side base plate, a right side base plate, and a bottom base plate. After the top of the banner is aligned and duct taped to the top base plate, the banner can be accurately cut to size by simply inserting a blade through the banner and into cutting groove on the base plates which becomes guides for the blade. No math is required. At least one yieldable member having a high coefficient of friction is coupled to each base plate and a cap plate is located on top of each base plate to lock the edges of a banner to each base plate by pressing on the yieldable members on each base plate when the banner is located on top of the yieldable members.

Abstract: A bolt action rifle with safety latching mechanism has an upper receiver including a movable bolt assembly, a lower receiver having a trigger assembly and releasably attached to the upper receiver, the bolt assembly movable between a cocked position and an uncocked position, and the upper receiver and the lower receiver including a latching mechanism operable to prevent the lower receiver from being detached from the upper receiver while the bolt assembly is in the cocked position

Abstract: Safety apparatus for firearms are described. An example safety apparatus may be used with a firearm having a latch movable between a first position to retain a breech of the firearm and a second position to enable movement of the breech. The safety apparatus includes a biased safety mechanism coupled to the latch and movable between the first position and the second position. Additionally, the safety apparatus includes a safety device moveable between a locking position and a non-locking position. The safety device interacts with the biased safety mechanism when the safety device is in the locking position and the safety mechanism is in the first position to enable the biased safety mechanism to prevent a trigger force from moving the latch to the second position but to enable the latch to be deflected by a returning breech.

Abstract: Fishing line having an array of shaped features on the outer surface thereof and method for making such lines.

Abstract: The fishing lure carrier includes a substantially cylindrical housing for storing lures, the housing having a perforated bottom for drainage and an open top; a removable cap for selective covering of the open top; and a belt clip formed on an exterior surface of the housing for selective attachment to the user's belt. The cap is retained on the cylindrical housing by a tether.

Abstract: A live catch animal trap has a trap floor positioned above an animal holding cage, a bait station positioned adjacent to the trap floor, and a mechanical trigger mechanism. The trap floor is rotatably moveable between a generally horizontal closed position and a downwardly inclined open position. The trap floor is normally biased toward its closed position by a return spring and/or its center of gravity location relative to its pivot point. The trigger mechanism is arranged to be tripped by an animal standing on the trap floor as the animal attempts to access the bait station. The trigger mechanism has a trip plate connected to a locking element that engages a spring-loaded latch on the trap floor. The trip plate and the locking element are arranged to automatically return the trigger mechanism to an untripped condition as the trap floor returns from its open position to its closed position.

Abstract: An improved mousetrap has an upper jaw pivotally mounted with a lower jaw, and a bait platform mounted between the upper and lower jaws, The bait platform acts as a trigger to initiate jaw closure when depressed. A circumferential spring for closing the jaws around the bait platform encircles the jaws and is retained in a retaining groove of the lower jaw. The upper jaw has a rear, lower corner for retaining the spring when the jaws are open; and a rear, upper corner for retaining the spring when the jaws are closed. Contractile force of the spring pulls the spring from the lower corner toward the upper corner, to complete jaw closure.

Abstract: An apparatus for the delivery of toxicant to rats includes a conduit having an entry and an exit for rats, installed into an area determined to be suitable for rat control. A toxicant is placeable and contained in the conduit such that rats will contact the toxicant when passing through the conduit. The apparatus will be attended to to ensure the area is deemed rat free. Methods for using the apparatuses are also described.

Abstract: This invention relates to systems and methods for converting biomass into highly inert carbon. Specifically, some embodiments densify the carbon into anthracite-style carbon aggregations and store it in geologically stable underground deposits. The use of certain embodiments yield a net effect of removing atmospheric carbon via the process of photosynthesis and converting it into hard coal, which can be stored in underground beds that mimic existing coal deposits which are known to be stable for thousands of years.

Abstract: A method of treating a liquid made up of an initial alcohol-blended fuel combined with water so that there is phase separation of an alcohol-water layer. A co-solvent is added to the first quantity of liquid and mixed with the first quantity of liquid to reverse the phase separation of the alcohol-water layer.

Abstract: The invention provides a fermentation and recovery process for the production of biodiesel of commercial grade quality according to commercial and environmental standards (e.g., ASTM ANP, or EPA trace elements and emissions standards), by fermentation of carbohydrates using a genetically modified microorganism. The process provides a direct route for the production of fatty esters, without the need for producing oils which are later chemically transesterified with the concomitant production of large quantities of glycerin and other undesirable side-products.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for producing fatty acid derivatives, for example, fatty esters, are described.

Abstract: A quaternary ammonium salt detergent made from the reaction product of the reaction of: (a) a hydrocarbyl substituted acylating agent and a compound having an oxygen or nitrogen atom capable of condensing with said acylating agent and further having a tertiary amino group; and (b) a quaternizing agent suitable for converting the tertiary amino group to a quaternary nitrogen and the use of such quaternary ammonium salt detergents in a fuel composition to reduce intake valve deposits.

Abstract: The charcoal-foam heating material is formed by combining a charcoal mixture with an aqueous surfactant and water to create a semi-homogenous charcoal-foam slurry. The slurry is poured into shaping molds so that the slurry dries into the charcoal-foam heating material. In the preferred embodiment, a concrete surfactant is used during the mixing process and the charcoal-foam slurry is formed into briquettes and used as a cooking fuel.

Abstract: Stack gases of a burner, such as a power plant or other combustion source, may be remediated by a captive algae farm cycling some portion of the stack gases through a scrubber, and ultimately out into a manifold feeding a farm composed of tubes hosting the growth of algae. Liquids from the scrubber, including water capturing volatile organic compounds, solid particulates, nitrogen compounds, sulfur compounds, carbon dioxide, and the like, remediate the water and feed the algae farm. Meanwhile, the vapors and other gases provide an environment rich in water vapor, nitrogen compounds acting as fertilizer, and carbon dioxide to feed the algae to promote increased rates of growth. The algae may be recycled as a fuel itself, or may be harvested for use as a soil amendment to enrich the organic content of soils.

Abstract: The invention relates to a greenhouse system which comprises at least one plant culture, at least part of the glazing of the greenhouse system comprising at least one functional layer that is adapted to said plant culture.

Abstract: A method of covering a potted plant or a floral grouping with a floral sleeve. The sleeve has, in one embodiment, a plurality of randomly positioned overlapping folds disposed in a sidewall of the sleeve. The sleeve optionally has a detachable upper portion.

Abstract: A movable barrier operator system wherein one or more of the various components of the system is configured to operate selectively in at least either of two operational modes. Each operating mode is characterized by a corresponding energy usage profile. The operational status of the system is monitored and operating modes are selected that serve both to substantially ensure proper operation given current likely operational expectations and an overall desire to reduce energy consumption.

Abstract: A louvre window actuation system for a louvre window having a plurality of louvre blades and at least one operating bar associated with each of the louvre blades for movement thereof, the actuation system including a slidable handle movable between a closed condition in which the plurality of louvre blades are closed and a number of open conditions wherein the plurality of louvre blades are at least partially open wherein the slidable handle is operatively associated with the at least one operating bar to actuate the plurality of louvre blades.

Abstract: A striker assembly includes a plate configured for attachment to a vehicle and a striker attached to the plate. The striker is configured for securing a latch assembly of the vehicle in a first position. The striker assembly also includes a first resilient member configured for contacting the latch assembly in the first position and a second resilient member configured for cooperating with the first resilient member to move the latch assembly to a second position.

Abstract: An emergency door of a vehicle composed such that a large space is not required outside the vehicle to open the door, ingress of rainwater is prevented even in a case the emergency door is mounted at curved profile of front face of leading car, the door can be opened easily with small force, and the door is supported rigidly and steadily with compact configuration. The interior of the door 14 and side part of front face of leading car 10b are connected pivotally by an upper arm 36, lower arm 31, and first link bar 40 so that a parallel linkage is composed, thereby enabling horizontal movement of the door. A stopper mechanism 43 is composed such that an end of a second link bar 48 is connecting pivotally to the first link bar 40, the bracket 46 having an oblong hole 44 is attached to a frame 26 of the carbody, a pin 50 fixed to the other end of the second link bar 48 is received in the oblong hole 44, and the door can be stopped at its full open position when the pin 50 contacts an end of the oblong hole 44.

Abstract: A door safety shield generally includes door and door jamb attachment portions and at least one tambour portion extending therebetween. The tambour portion includes a plurality of tambour slats hingedly coupled to one another so as to be substantially flexible in a first direction and substantially inflexible in a second direction. The first tambour portion is coupled to the door attachment portion and/or the door jamb attachment portion by a coupling that is substantially flexible in the second direction and substantially inflexible in the first direction. Methods of preventing injuries at the hinged side of a door and methods of manufacturing a door safety shield are also described.

Abstract: An adjustable threshold assembly for disposition below a door includes a sill, a rail spaced from the sill and configured to be vertically adjustable relative to the sill, and a seal disposed between the rail and the sill. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion each engaging one of the sill and the rail, respectively, and a flexible intermediate portion connecting the first and second portions. The seal includes a bulb extending from the first portion and contacting the second portion. The bulb includes a first end and a second end each extending from the first portion. The bulb encloses a cavity between the first and second ends such that the bulb resiliently collapses between the rail and the sill as the rail is vertically adjusted relative to the sill to maintain contact between the bulb and the second portion.

Abstract: An osculating device (100) for a mobile boarding bridge includes an air charge part (110) that is attached to the end of the canopy (140) of a mobile boarding bridge into which air can be injected. A buffer material (120) is provided in the air charge part that can maintain a fixed shape, even if the air is discharged from the air charge part.

Abstract: The invention provides a high-visibility roof-drain cover comprising a roof-drain cover, a marked, reversible, elongated flag, and coupler means for mounting the flag to the roof-drain cover, wherein the flag extends upwardly from the roof-drain cover a sufficient distance that a top portion of the flag will remain visible above an accumulation of wind-blown debris and snow. The invention provides a first group of high-visibility roof-drain cover embodiments, each of which includes a novel roof-drain cover. The invention provides a second group of high-visibility roof-drain cover embodiments for retrofit, each of which includes a prior art roof-drain cover. The invention provides a third group of sub-assemblies for retrofit.

Abstract: An automated extrusion construction system may include an extrusion nozzle configured to extrude construction material in a substantially horizontal direction against an elongated and substantially vertical surface. An extrusion nozzle may have a height adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the height of an outlet in response to level deviations in the surface on which the construction material is extruded by the extrusion nozzle. An automated extrusion construction system may include a slicing mechanism configured to controllably slice through the extruded layer.

Abstract: Protective clips for movable partitions include a guard portion that protrudes from a top major surface of a base portion. The guard portion extends along the top major surface proximate to a front side of the base portion. The guard portion also may extend along the top major surface proximate to at least one end side surface a longitudinal end of the base portion. Movable partitions include one or more such protective clips. The protective clips optionally may be used to attach a sweep strip to panels of a movable partition. Methods of forming such protective clips include molding the clips within a mold cavity.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a lateral support device for an anchor embedded in the ground includes a central body defining an interior channel sized to receive the embedded anchor. The lateral support device also includes a plurality of fins coupled to and extending outwardly away from the central body. The central body and plurality of fins are embeddable within the ground to position the embedded anchor within the interior channel.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for capturing and harnessing energy from environmental wind which impinges the outer wall surfaces of a building. The system includes at least one elongated conduit disposed within an enclosure of a building, the conduit having first and second end portions opening to the building outer wall surfaces. A wind deflector mechanism is disposed at each of the first and second conduit end portions. Each such wind deflector mechanism is adapted to direct environmental wind, which impinges against the building outer wall surface proximate the end portion, into the conduit to provide bi-directional air flow passing through the conduit. At least one wind collector device is disposed within the conduit, and the wind collector has air impact elements mounted to a shaft. Each wind collector device is adapted to interact with the bi-directional air flow moving within the conduit originating from either first or second conduit end portions to rotate the wind collector shaft.

Abstract: Components for use in the assembly and installation of a modular decking system, comprised of structural free floating piers which distributes loads of deck pad to ground, piers have a pad bearing surface and four uniformly placed receiver blocks which interlock with corresponding recesses at four pad corners, an interlocking cam passes through pad recesses at deck surface and locks to piers by rotating cam with custom designed tool. The system is designed to be assembled without permanent fasteners to allow for expansion, reconfiguration or relocation, or addition of traditional and contemporary deck accessories that engage and interlock with the piers, pads and cams. One ideal manufacturing method of one or any of the system components is compression molded post-consumer and/or industrial thermo-plastic waste.

Abstract: Structure and procedure for erecting concrete towers used in wind turbines in which said towers consist of sections, which in turn may each comprise a different number of segments or longitudinal sections. The procedure includes two differentiated cycles, which may take place alongside each other: the pre-assembly of each section of tower and their assembly. The sections may be pre-mounted on bases placed on the ground, with the segment in turn fitted with the help of struts and mechanical clamps. This procedure is extremely versatile in that it makes the best logistic use of the material, resources and requisite assembly times since the assembly procedures for each section can be developed alongside each other in the different wind farm towers, and also greater heights can be achieved than is traditionally possible.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cover for a tubular duct extending from a planar roof surface. The cover comprises a cap, a skirt and a closure. In use: the cap is disposed outwardly from said duct, to define a headspace outside said duct and an annular space surrounding the headspace; the skirt extends from the rim of the cap in surrounding, spaced relation to said duct; and the closure extends from the terminus of the skirt to said duct and is disposed in spaced relation to said surface. The skirt and closure have vanes formed therein. The vanes are oriented such that: precipitation driven by wind through the skirt into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the skirt, towards the roof; and precipitation driven by wind through the closure into the interior of the cap is directed, as it passes through the closure, away from the duct.

Abstract: Spacers and a spacing strip for use in an outer wall of a building between the outer vertical surface of its underlying structure and the inner surface of siding through which the siding is nailed to the underlying structure to provide a ventilation space between the rear surface of the siding and the outer surface of the underlying structure. Ventilation channels can be provided at both the lower and upper ends of the ventilation space to facilitate movement of air to the atmosphere from such a ventilation space.

Abstract: A prefabricated insulation panel is disclosed. To improve the insulation of existing buildings by applying materials to the exterior elevation the invention provides a prefabricated insulation panel comprising a layer of insulation material, two layers of render and a layer of reinforcing. The invention also provides a method of prefabricating an insulation panel, a method of insulating a building, and a building insulated with prefabricated insulation panels.