Abstract: A shoe (1) is disclosed comprising: an insole (1) fixed to the upper (T) and comprising a slot (10) in the heel area and a plurality of holes (11) in the plantar surface area. A ventilation system (2) comprises: a pump (4) disposed in the slot (10) of the insole, a membrane (3) fixed in the lower surface of the insole (1) under the holes (11), a connection pipe (20) connecting the chamber (40) of the pump with the spaces (32) of the membrane and an outlet conduit (21) connecting the chamber of the pump (40) with the outside to exhaust air. An outsole (9) obtained by directly injecting expandable material in a mould covers the ventilation system, insole and lower part of the upper (T). A mould (S) for performing said direct injection is also disclosed.

Abstract: The sole of a footwear such as slipper having an outsole. The sole is made of a foam material and outsole area of which is partly laid with a fabric material. The fabric is attached to the outsole layer by a plastic which has been heat pressed to the fabric and the foam material. This provides a strong attachment between the fabric-plastic-foam material.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing snow from the surface of a pitched roof that is a substantially rectangular, flat, flexible sheet with a snow grasping surface and a snow sliding surface, said sheet being conformable to the shape of the snow.

Abstract: A heavy duty excavator bucket is constructed with an exoskeletal structure comprising coupled cast components including a lip member, opposed wing members, junction members locatable between floor and side walls and side and rear walls and a cap rail structure extending between opposed wing members about the upper periphery of the bucket to form an integral structure. Steel plate floor, side wall and rear wall members extend between adjacent exoskeletal regions. The bucket may include a cast arch member extending between opposed wing members and a cast reinforcing member extending between opposed junction members adjacent said rear wall.

Abstract: An air-feed device and boiler iron has a three-station guiding valve. The body contains an air inlet linking boiler and two air outlets located in two sides of a guiding valve. The first outlet links wet vapor snoot of iron and the second links heating plate of boiler. One end of a valve rod of the guiding valve is in the valve body and links to a fixed valve plug. The other end is led outside through an opening in the top of body. When the valve rod rests at any one of the stations, the valve plug blocks a desired combination of air outlets and/or inlets.

Abstract: Ironing board systems comprising an ironing board having an elongate surface for ironing wherein at an end of its perimeter, said surface for ironing has three adjacent equally spaced arc. The ironing board system includes said ironing board and a wing shaped attachment with an edge having an arc complementary to the arcs of the ironing board. The wing shaped attachment is adapted to detachably couple to said ironing board at any of the three adjacent arcs to extend the ironing surface. The ironing board may comprise a rotatable iron rest, and a braking mechanism for restraining the ironing board in open and closed positions.

Abstract: Three-dimensional lightweight foam greeting cards are described herein having a foam body with a perimeter wall that Often& between two spaced apart parallel pieces of planar sheet material such as heavy gauge paper, cardboard, or other such material. The greeting cards have a partially hollowed foam body or one or more cavities in the foam body concealed in the front and back by the planar sheet material which may be pre-cut in the shape of the foam body are decorated consistent with the design of the foam body. The cavities in the foam body may contain various electronic components that enable the greeting card to produce sound, record and playback a personalized message, trigger light activation, trigger the movement of moveable parts, display digital video, photographs or slideshows, or a combination thereof. The greeting cards may include various switch mechanisms that maybe located and accessed through various locations on the foam greeting card body.

Abstract: A Combined greeting card and record sleeve in a side-fold design, incorporating in the front-sheet a phonographic record-sleeve as a pocket in which to receive an audio disc with a central die-cut to expose the label or logo of the disc received; and a back-sheet of relative size and dimension to the front-sheet on which is contained on the inside panel general greeting card indicia and a side flap abutting the back-sheet as a detachable folded portion on which to place a mailing label.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing wind turbine electric generation with advertising or other image patterns for calling the attention of an individual. The wind turbine electric generation may include a wind rotor, a plurality of blades, an image and an electric generator. The image is displayed on at least two of the plurality of blades to generate a dynamic image effect with the rotation of the plurality of blades around a central axis of rotation. The electric generator is coupled to and driven by the wind rotor to generate electricity. The methods may include providing a wind turbine electric generation system and displaying an image on at least two of the plurality of blades to generate a dynamic image effect with the rotation of the plurality of blades around the central axis of rotation.

Abstract: A lighted display for mounting upon a vehicle having a trailer hitch receiver. The lighted display includes an elongated base member with a trailer hitch mount affixed midway along the base member. The base member also incorporates a horizontal step plate extending outward from upper edge of the base member allowing easier access to the rear of the vehicle. The base member is configured to receive multiple lighting elements within an elongated vertical channel. The lighting elements are connected to a trailer wiring plug which is configured to engage the vehicles trailer wiring connector. A message board is positioned within the vertical channel of the base member. The message board is made of a semi-translucent material which allows a portion of the light from the lighting elements to pass. The message board is partially masked with an opaque material, the unmasked portions forming the desired message for display.

Abstract: An identification patch adapted to be attached to an object for its identification and method. The patch comprises a first area of material radiating within a first infrared band detectable by a first device operating in said first infrared band and a second area of material radiating within a second infrared band detectable by a second device operating in said second infrared band. The combination of the first and second areas of material forms a discernable pattern detectable when using a selected one of said devices yet covert to the naked eye. A covert identification patch for a vehicle having a roof and method. The patch comprises a frame having a first surface and a second surface the frame dimensioned and having an external characteristic to approximate that of a sunroof, a first material on the first surface wherein the first material radiates electromagnetic radiation within a first band undetectable to the naked eye, and an adhesive for attaching the frame to the roof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the fields of illuminated signs and displays, and to decorative and specialist lighting fixtures. A light transmissive device (1) includes a panel (2) having a cavity (4) for housing a light source (6), the panel having surfaces such that light emitted from a light source (6) in the cavity (4) propagating along the panel (2) will be substantially totally internally reflected. The invention provides a construction that allows for a slim lighting panel with an innovative feature in the form of an illuminated edge at the sides of the light transmissive device, of any colour, thus providing a display device with a high visual impact.

Abstract: Alignment devices for assisting proper location of fingers relative to the triggers of trigger-activated devices, trigger-activated devices, finger position indicating triggers for trigger-activated devices, and methods for activating a trigger-activated device are disclosed. Alignment devices for assisting proper location of a finger relative to a trigger may include a body having a trigger face configured to engage a user's finger, a trigger-engaging region, and a position indicator disposed on the trigger face. The trigger-engaging region may be adapted to couple the alignment device to a trigger of a trigger-activated device. The trigger-engaging region may be configured to position the trigger face in a predetermined position relative to the trigger. The position indicator may be disposed on the trigger face. The position indicator may be configured to provide an indication that at least a portion of the finger is positioned in a predetermined lateral position relative to the trigger.

Abstract: A damping device is disclosed which dampens movement of a weapon on an axis which is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the weapon.

Abstract: A break-open over-and-under rifle (21) comprising an upper barrel (23s) and a lower barrel (23i) assembled close to a breech (24) thereof in a sleeve (A) to which an action body (B) is hinged through a hinge pin (P), two symmetrical side seats (30) being made on the sides of the sleeve (A) at the sides of the upper barrel (23s) close to the lower barrel (23i) and close to the breech (24) of the barrels, each side seat (30) being intended to receive an extractor (60a, 60b) in sliding engagement actuated by a spring (6), for each of the extractors (60a, 60b) selector means (70) being foreseen fixedly connected to the sleeve (A) each able to be positioned in an engagement position of the corresponding extractor (60a, 60b) intended to limit its sliding or in a disengagement position of the corresponding extractor (60a, 60b) intended to allow it to slide freely.

Abstract: A magazine for a firearm is provided. The magazine includes a magazine box, a base removably coupled to the magazine box and a follower disposed in the magazine box. A spring is coupled to said follower to bias ammunition cartridges towards a firearm receiver. The base includes at least one opening sized to receive an arm on said follower when the magazine is loaded with ammunition cartridges. The distance between the bottom of the follower and top of the base may be arranged to be less than the diameter of an ammunition cartridge when the magazine contains a predetermined number of rounds.

Abstract: An ammunition magazine including a housing having a base, a follower spring-biased in the housing against the base, a belt coupled to the follower for pulling the follower towards the base, a belt collecting and release mechanism mounted in the base, the belt being coupled to the mechanism for shortening the belt around the wheel when the magazine is rolled along a surface in a forward direction, whereby the belt pulls the follower into the magazine to permit loading of cartridges into the magazine, and for preventing rotation of the wheel to release the belt when the base is rolled along a surface in a rearward direction.

Abstract: A trigger assembly comprising a housing adapted to mount a trigger, hammer and sear therein. The housing has an adjustment feature adapted to fixedly mount the housing within the trigger chamber portion of the firearm. The trigger assembly is particularly conducive for an AR-15 type rifle and the various sear engagement surfaces are adapted to be adjustable irrespective of the various dimensions and tolerances of the underlying firearm. A safety system is employed that adjustably allows proper engagement of the trigger tail to properly engage and disengage the safety mechanism.

Abstract: A dual stage trigger assembly for a firearm. The trigger assembly comprises a spring loaded lightweight hammer, a spring loaded trigger, a spring loaded disconnector, a spring follower for the disconnector spring and two adjustment screws that allow the user the ability to adjust the sear face of the trigger that is engaged with the hammer in the cocked position and adjust the force imparted to the disconnector by the disconnector spring.

Abstract: A firearm grip sleeve with retention feature has a body including a central bore and a meeting element. The mating element is connected to a mating feature on the frame of a firearm. The mating element is connected to a mating feature on the frame of a firearm. The mating element prevents undesirable movement of the body with respect to the firearm while the mating feature is connected to the mating element. The mating element may prevent axial movement and upward longitudinal movement of the body. The firearm may include a removable back strap insert.

Abstract: A weapon grip assembly for attachment to a forward portion of a weapon is provided. The invention includes a base assembly supported for operative engagement by a handle. The base assembly includes clamps adapted to be secured to a forward portion of the weapon and further includes a post having a clamp end adapted to retain the clamps for pivot motion with respect thereto. The post of the base assembly is received within a bore of the handle, a mandrel being interposed between the handle and the clamps of the base assembly. As the base assembly is drawn into the handle, by rotation of the handle about the post of the base assembly, the mandrel receives the clamp end of the post, with an upper free surface thereof engaging the clamps for pivoted closure about a portion of the weapon in furtherance of securing the weapon grip assembly thereto.

Abstract: A light activated cartridge is disclosed. The cartridge is comprised of a metalcasing containing an explosive such as gun powder and holds a bullet at a first end. The second end of the casing includes a solid light transparent portion which may be a circular glass or polymeric component positioned in the casing where a primer is normally placed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the application can include an accessory support for a firearm (e.g., integrated rail system such as a picatinny rail) and methods for using the same. Embodiments of an accessory support can include an inner surface including a curved portion. Embodiments of an accessory support can operate in a first configuration having a slidable or rotatably interaction to the firearm and a second configuration having a locked or immovable interaction to the firearm.

Abstract: A device for adjusting a gun sight disposed in a dovetail groove on a gun slide is presented. The device includes a pushing member having a protrusion and an opening formed for receiving the gun sight therethrough, where the pushing member is movable in a first direction. The device further includes a pressure plate moveable in the first direction and a tail assembly opposing the pressure plate and movable in a second direction, where the tail assembly and the pressure plate are for securing the gun slide therebetween. When the gun slide is secured between the tail assembly and the pressure plate, moving the pushing member moves the gun sight.

Abstract: A mount adapter device is disclosed which utilizes a spring-loaded push system that employs a dual locking mechanism to releasably, consistently, and securely lock accessories to a weapon accessory rail. The mount adapter device generally includes a first base member, a second base member, a push rod member, and a resilient member. The push rod member slidably connects the first base member and the second base member. The first base member is linearly slidable into engagement with the second base member in a first direction, and the second base member is linearly slidable into engagement with the first base member in a second direction which is opposite the first direction. The first base member includes a first clamping member for engaging one edge of the rail. The second base member includes a second clamping member for engaging an opposite edge of the rail.

Abstract: An improved accessory mount comprising a custom recoil spring guide assembly and a rail sleeve assembly. The custom spring guide assembly comprises a custom recoil spring guide rod having a tip and a shoulder, and a hollow custom recoil spring plug comprising a cylinder and a recessed collar. The rail sleeve assembly comprises a front plate, a sleeve incorporating a integral rails, and an attachment means, such as a retaining hole. A hollow boss having a rim is rigidly connected to the interior face of the front plate, and the front plate is securely connected to the sleeve. To attach the sleeve to the handgun, the tip of the custom rod is inserted into the boss causing the rim to be seated on the shoulder to create a first non-invasive point of fixity. The retaining hole in an extension of the sleeve fits snugly over the slidestop pin extension, thereby creating a second non-invasive point of fixity when the pin is inserted into the hole.

Abstract: Shooting rests having elevation adjustment assemblies are disclosed herein. One embodiment of the disclosure, for example, is directed to a shooting rest for supporting a firearm having a buttstock spaced apart from a forestock. The shooting rest includes a first base portion carrying a first support for supporting the buttstock and a second base portion coupled to the first base portion and carrying a second support for supporting the forestock. The second base portion includes a body having an opening extending therethrough, and a height adjustment member slidably positioned in the opening. The height adjustment member has a non-circular cross-sectional shape in a plane that is generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the height adjustment member. The height adjustment member is attached to the second support and configured to adjust a height of the second support.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sight which is fastened to a structural component of a firearm, preferably the carriage of a pistol. The invention is characterized in that the sight (4) has parallel to or in alignment with the axis of its base an internal thread and is secured by means of a screw (5) which can be screwed in from the interior of the structural component of the firearm. It is preferably provided that in the mounted state the leg (7) of the sight (4) protrudes into a through-opening (2) of the structural component of the firearm.

Abstract: A tactical illuminator having an integrated illuminator system including a horizontally-oriented foregrip, a power source, a rotary switch, a toggle switch, a depressible switch, an attachment mechanism, navigation lights, an aiming laser, and a main illuminator.

Abstract: An apparatus for laser sighting comprising a laser and a scope with a reticle, where the laser and scope are coupled together to form a single integrated unit. The laser and the reticle are powered by a single power source and illumination of the laser and reticle is controlled by a single controller, such as a rheostat knob. The rheostat knob provides at least four settings, a first setting turns the laser and the reticle off, a second setting turns the laser on and the reticle off, a third setting turns the laser and the reticle on, and a fourth setting turns the laser off and the reticle on. Additional settings turn the laser off and the reticle on, and the reticle is illuminated to greater degrees of brightness. The integrated laser and scope sighting apparatus is mountable to the rail of an object, such as a weapon.

Abstract: A trap for capturing a plurality of animals is provided, according to one aspect. The trap can comprise an enclosure having an opening through which the at least one animal can pass to enter the enclosure. A gate, movable between an open position and a closed position, is positioned therein the at least one opening. A means for remotely triggering the gate moves the gate from the open position to the closed position when desired. Methods are also provided for capturing at least one animal by providing a trap with a gate, positioning the gate in an open position, monitoring the trap until at least one animal has entered the trap, and remotely triggering the gate to move from the open position to a closed position.

Abstract: A trap includes a generally U-shaped spring element with a first and a second arm extending in the same general direction, the arms ending in a set of jaws, the spring element implemented such that with the spring relaxed the jaw set is closed, a trigger linkage comprising a first link pivoted on the first arm of the spring element and a second link pivoted on the second arm of the spring element, with the first link positioned in front of the second link toward the jaw set, and pivoted to the second link at a point between the arms about equidistant from each arm, wherein the length of the links is such that, with the spring element relaxed the linkage is folded, and with the spring element arms urged apart with the arms approximately parallel, the links are essentially collinear, a constraint mechanism rigidly attached to the second link and having an extension over the first link, such that, with the spring element positioned horizontally, the linkage mechanism is constrained to a specific magnitude of fol

Abstract: A modulator (10, 10A) for changing a constant flow of gas to a pulsed or intermittent flow of gas, said modulator (10, 10A) including a housing component (11) and an insertion tube (15) for insertion into a hollow interior (16) of the housing component (11) wherein after insertion of the insertion tube (15) into the housing component (11), gas is generated either in situ within the hollow interior (16) of the housing component (11) and be caused to flow out of an outlet (23A) of the modulator (10, 10A) in pulses or alternatively gas is passed into the insertion tube (15) in a constant flow and upon reaching the hollow interior (16) of the housing component (11) is released therefrom through the outlet (23A) in a pulsed flow.

Abstract: The “MOBILE PLANT FOR SELF-SUSTAINABLE BIODIESEL PRODUCTION AND MOBILE PROCESS FOR BIODIESEL PRODUCTION” characterized by a compact equipment arrangement for the biodiesel production in a way intended to reduce waste generation and, additionally, allow reuse/application of some of them; it is organized and arranged over a chassis with axle and wheels that can be attached and taken to various locations, presents a self-sustainable format to use its own fuel to generate electricity to supply the entire plant, if necessary.

Abstract: A process for direct hydroliquefaction of biomass selected from algae, lignocellulosic biomass and/or of one or more constituents of lignocellulosic biomass selected from the group comprising cellulose, hemicellulose and/or lignin for producing fuel bases comprising two successive hydroconversion stages under high hydrogen pressure in ebullating bed reactors. Hydroconversion takes place in the presence of a supported catalyst of the type for hydroconversion of petroleum residue and a suspension composed of the biomass and a solvent, preferably a hydrogen donor solvent and preferably recycled from the process. The biomass can undergo a pretreatment of drying and/or roasting and/or grinding and/or demineralization prior to hydroliquefaction.

Abstract: In certain aspects, the disclosure provides methods for producing hydrocarbons from alkenone-producing algae, such as algae species of the Isochrysis family.

Abstract: The invention provides low-cost, non-thermal methods to transform and beneficiate bulk materials, including low rank coals such as peat, lignite, brown coal, subbituminous coal, other carbonaceous solids or derived feedstock. High pressure compaction and comminution processes are linked to transform the solid materials by eliminating interstitial, capillary, pores, or other voids that are present in the materials and that may contain liquid, air or gases that are detrimental to the quality and performance of the bulk materials, thereby beneficiating the bulk products to provide premium feedstock for industrial or commercial uses, such as electric power generation, gasification, liquefaction, and carbon activation. The handling characteristics, dust mitigation aspects and combustion emissions of the products may also be improved.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a greenhouse comprising outside walls provided with translucent surfaces (2) such that light may be received into the greenhouse (3) from at least two geographical directions, a roof structure (7) and a roof (6) provided with an insulating material portion. The invention is characterized in that the outside walls, in connection with the translucent surfaces (2), are provided with a light reflecting yard structure which resides below the translucent surfaces (2), above a ground surface (50), and extending away from the outside wall. The greenhouse (3) may further comprise vertically positioned light reflecting surface elements (40) and light reflecting shade elements (44) movable in a direction parallel with the transparent surfaces (2).

Abstract: A street tree guard ensuring easy assembly work and having secure coupling strength is provided. The street tree guard includes an inner supporting member which is configured to be installed on a ground around a street tree, an outer supporting member which is configured to be disposed while being spaced apart from the inner supporting member outward, a covering member which configured to be disposed between the inner supporting member and the outer supporting member. Each of the inner supporting member and the outer supporting member includes a plurality of base members configured to be disposed at equal intervals and a plurality of connecting members configured to connect two facing ends of the base members to each other. If a part of the street tree guard is damage, only the damaged part is replaced for maintenance, thereby reducing the maintenance sot. The street tree guard ensures easy installation.

Abstract: A watering system for a tree such as a Christmas tree, or other plant, in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a low pressure water source, a fluid connection line and an interface watering device connected to the tree. The interface watering device may be a cup, a stopper, or threaded fitting, for example that provides water from the water source via the line to the water source. A method for supplying fluid matter into plants or trees in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes drilling a hole into the plant stem or trunk and installing a pressure tight connection in the hole so that fluid may be forced into the plant or tree.

Abstract: A tree tie and method of use is disclosed. The tree tie comprises a member. The tie member including a first end portion; a first tab coupled to the first end portion; a middle portion and one end of a middle portion coupled to the first tab. The tie member also includes an opposite end of the middle portion coupled to a second tab, a second end portion coupled to the second tab and a head portion coupled to the second end portion. The tree tie including a flexible hose surrounding the middle portion of the first member and being substantially held in place by the first and second tabs. Only flexible hose contacts the tree when the first member surrounds the tree.

Abstract: The present invention is a fruit and vegetable shaping device that includes a mold with a top section and a bottom section with two half sections that are encapsulated around a piece of fruit or vegetable growing on a plant or a vine or separated from a plant or vine, while the piece of fruit or vegetable is growing within the mold and a generally planar u-shape clip that includes a plurality of strengthening angled reinforcement structure lines that secures the two half sections and the piece of fruit or vegetable together forming the fruit and vegetable shaping device. There is also an aperture disposed on the top section of the mold to accommodate a stem from the piece of fruit or vegetable, a water and moisture aperture disposed on the bottom section of the mold, as well as a method of use.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to an improved plant breeding system. More particularly, this invention relates to a method for automated, high throughput analysis of plant phenotype and plant genotype in a breeding program.

Abstract: A collapsible floral container stored and shipped in a substantially planar configuration and expanded into the form of a flower pot or flower pot cover is disclosed. The collapsible container includes a plurality of segments and a connecting member for connecting the segments such that the segments define a sidewall and such that the segments are movable between an expanded position wherein the segments cooperate with one another to form an object receiving space and to provide the sidewall with a unitary appearance and a collapsed position wherein the sidewall is substantially flattened.

Abstract: A biodegradable plant pot is formed from a paperboard-based blank wrapped about an axis and having a first longitudinal edge portion overlapping and adhered to an opposite second longitudinal edge portion of the blank so as to form an overlap seam. The blank is oriented with the machine direction of the paperboard running substantially parallel to the axis and the cross-machine direction running substantially circumferentially about the side wall, such that the machine direction of the paperboard runs lengthwise along the overlap seam. Cuts are formed in the side wall adjacent to and at circumferentially opposite sides of one end of the overlap seam, the cuts being confined to a localized region adjacent the one end of the overlap seam.

Abstract: A panel for a modular green roof system includes a bottom and four sides extending upwardly therefrom to provide an enclosure for growing medium, with a first side having a height above the bottom, the panel configured to accommodate an irrigation head. The bottom of the irrigation head is positioned below the height of the first side and connects with a water supply line running horizontally along the first side. A mold defining a first opening can be formed in the first side, the first opening configured to receive the irrigation head, the mold extending toward a side opposing the first side. A notch formed in a first side flange extending from the first side may alternatively help secure the irrigation head. The top of the irrigation head can be elevated above the height of the first side to irrigate the panel and nearby panels with pressurized water.

Abstract: A collapsible and/or erectable shape-sustaining container having a substantially erect condition and substantially collapsed condition is disclosed. The collapsible and/or erectable shape-sustaining container is provided with at least one condition modifying element to facilitate erecting and/or collapsing the container.

Abstract: A method of growing a fruit or vegetable crop comprises: positioning a plant in the form of a seed or a seedling or a cutting of the crop in a first coherent mineral wool growth substrate having a volume not more than 150 cm3, allowing the plant to root and grow for at least 2 days and not more than 30 days, then transferring the plant within the first coherent mineral wool growth substrate so that the first coherent mineral wool growth substrate is in contact with a second coherent mineral wool growth substrate having volume 60 to 1500 cm3, and allowing the plant to grow for a further 2 to 5 weeks, transferring the plant within the second coherent mineral wool growth substrate so that the second coherent mineral wool growth substrate is in contact with a third coherent mineral wool growth substrate having volume of from 700 to 45 000 cm3, and allowing the plant to grow for a further 1 to 7 weeks before any further transfer is effected.

Abstract: A gate apparatus identifies whether a person is authorized to pass through, and allows the identified person to pass through. The gate apparatus obtains information about a shape of the person who is allowed to pass through. The gate apparatus restricts at least frontward and rearward travel of the person traveling from an entrance to an exit of a passageway in the gate apparatus to form space defined within the passageway, and is capable of adjusting a shape of the defined space based on the obtained shape information of the individual person.

Abstract: An expandable side enclosure for bathtubs and/or showers providing an appropriate solution to prevent restriction and suffering caused bathers in bathtubs and/or showers due to the lack of free body and limb movement required during bathing in baths with standard enclosures.