Abstract: The present invention relates to a thorn-proof insole comprising an insole assembly and a plurality of joint assemblies and featuring in matching the shape change of the sole of a foot when the insole assembly is extended. The insole assembly includes four plates which are consecutively joined together. The joint of the first plate and the second plate is located between a user's toes and thenar, the joint of the second plate and the third plate is corresponding to the middle portion of the arch of foot, and the joint of the third plate and the fourth plate is located between the arch of foot and the heel portion. The four plates could be designed with the same thickness or with different thickness according to the requirement of its location. Each plate must be at least 0.5 mm thick, and each joint assembly includes at least two first sleeves, one second sleeve and one pin. The first sleeves and the second sleeve are respectively applied to make two adjacent plates join together.

Abstract: Embodiments provide an insole having a multilayered construction with openings and ribs sized, shaped, and positioned to provide desired areas of stiffness and flexibility. The multi-layered construction may include a chassis defining a support member opening and a support member covering the opening and positioned between the chassis and a cushioning layer. The chassis may define a plurality of apertures in the forefoot portion, which, in a direction from the forefoot end to the heel end, progressively increase in size to a point at which maximum flexibility is desired in the forefoot portion. The bottom of the support member may include protruding ribs that extend generally in a longitudinal direction from the midfoot to the heel, and include a straight middle rib, a medial side rib convex with respect to the middle rib, and a lateral side rib convex with respect to the middle rib.

Abstract: Footwear incorporating a shoe tongue, or gusset, and opposite rear tab, various overlays, one or more of structure, attached to the upper end of the tongue, and may be folded over, individually, so as to envelope the tongue and disclose different coloration, appearance, or designs, upon the upper surface of the shoe tongue, to add to its aesthetics. In addition, fasteners may be used for holding the overlays onto the upper surface of the tongue, and additional fasteners, such as a strap, or pouch, may be employed adjacent the underside of the tongue, to hold the unused overlays into storage, as when not in usage.

Abstract: Various embodiments of an evolutionary interchangeable sandal are disclosed. Certain example embodiments described herein relate to various sandal configurations that utilize at least two main elements, including a platform sole base and a strap assembly. These elements may be joined by special fasteners that provide quick-connect or disconnect while securely maintaining sandal integrity and wearability. The platform sole base may be customized in various thicknesses and sandal sizes. The strap assembly may be customized in various shapes, colors, styles, and/or manufacturing materials. In the case of the sole tread/height enhancement addition, the soles tread and height may be interchanged as needed.

Abstract: The present disclosure includes a material spreader mounted to a boom of an excavator for spreading bulk material over an area of interest. The material spreader includes a motor-controlled feeder for metering out the bulk material at a controlled rate. The material spreader further includes a mounting bracket configured to mount to a universal mounting portion of the boom.

Abstract: A garment care system includes a steam generator having a steam outlet, and a handset having a steam inlet arranged for coupling to the steam outlet, an opening for releasing steam and a steam control unit for controlling a valve for controlling the release of steam. The steam control unit includes a selector unit having at least two selection options, and a steam release switch connected to the selector unit and arranged for starting or stopping the release of steam in dependence on the selected option.

Abstract: Digital media greeting cards with self-contained sound, image, light or other electronic modules operative to play digital media, and related digital media either packaged with the greeting car or accessible via an internet link which is identified or enabled by the greeting card. Audio digital media cards contain a digital sound producing module and hold a CD or other digital media device with corresponding digital media content to that of the sound module, or a link to an internet site where corresponding digital media content is located. The sound module contains a sampling of the music contained on the audio CD so that a consumer can sample the CD before deciding to purchase the greeting card or so that the greeting card recipient is provided with a sample of what is contained on the CD. In an alternate embodiment, the greeting card contains an alphanumeric code printed thereon that will allow the recipient to download one or more audio files from an internet based digital music provider.

Abstract: An interactive card comprises a base sheet being a thin plate, one side of the base sheet showing messages; and another side thereof having a shaft; a multi-layer rotary disk; each layer of the multi-layer rotary disk having an axial hole; the multi-layer rotary disk being rotatable with respect to the shaft; the multi-layer rotary disk including at least one window layer and at least one data layer; each window layer having a window; and the data layer being printed with indications at positions corresponding to the window; or the window and indications being arranged at the same layer; the indications on the layer can be viewed through the window. The window layers and the data layers are alternatively arranged around the shaft by the shaft to insert into the axial holes.

Abstract: A light emitting sign comprising a plurality of blue LEDs operable to generate blue excitation light and a light emitting display surface comprising a light transmissive substrate and at least one phosphor overlaying at least a portion of one face of the substrate. The phosphor is configured to absorb at least a portion of the blue light generated by the LEDs and, in response, to emit light of a selected color other than blue. Regions of the display surface intended to generate blue light do not include the phosphor.

Abstract: The present embodiments provide channel letter lighting devices and/or systems. A lighting system, comprising a plurality of electrically connected lighting units, comprising conductors to provide an electrical signal to each of the units. Each of the lighting units comprise a housing, a printed circuit board (PCB) mounted within the housing and having a plurality of tabs and a plurality light emitting elements on the tabs. The tabs are angled in relation of the remainder of the PCB or housing. The electrical signal applied to the light emitting elements causes them to emit light substantially away from said housing. The lighting system further comprises a sealant within the housing filling cavities around the light emitting elements and the cavity around said PCB and a mounting mechanism for mounting the unit to a structure.

Abstract: Self-supporting signs and methods of manufacturing same are provided herein. In one embodiment, a self-supporting sign comprises a generally planar base portion and a generally planar upper portion extending from the base portion. The upper portion is foldable relative to the base portion about a fold line for movement between a storage configuration in which the base and upper portions are generally coplanar and a use configuration in which the base portion is generally horizontal and the upper portion is raised relative to the base portion. Only folding about the fold line is necessary to move from the storage configuration to the use configuration, and the base and upper portions are sufficiently rigid such that the upper portion remains at the use configuration after being moved to the use configuration. The upper portion may be offset from the base portion between about 50° and 90° when at the use configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile presentation device (1) having a first wheel (2) and a second wheel (3), where the first (2) and second (3) wheels each comprises an outer ring (4) rotatably arranged around an inner ring (5). Furthermore, the inner ring (5) has a first side (6) and a second side (7), wherein a presentation surface (8) is arranged on the second side (7). Further, the first (2) and second (3) wheels are fixed parallel to each other by means of a bar device (9) by which the inner rings (5) of the first (2) and second (3) wheels are connected.

Abstract: A device that is removably attached to one or both broad sides of a shipping container. The device provides a surface that occupies a substantial portion of the broad side of the container. The device may be used to present signage or other indicia that is positioned on the side of the container by means of the device. This device may be used to present advertising and other indicia or information by way of containers that are in transit, or by way of containers that are retired from shipping and are utilized for storage and other uses. The device comprises efficient fixation of the device by means comprising use of the containers' corner castings and/or door hinges. The invention provides an attachment that withstands wind and weather incurred during all modes of transportation. The flush and unobtrusive design of the surface and mounting devices of the invention do not interfere with commonly used container moving equipment or stowage practices.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length and with an interchangeable identification (ID) element. The band includes a first band element with a recessed surface for receiving and retaining the identification element such as with its included ID module extending through a hole in the first band element body. To allow user sizing, the wearable band includes a second band element with a planar body extending from a first to a second end. The second band element body is greater in length than the first band element body and includes a hole for receiving the first band element body. The band includes a coupling mechanism that detachably connects an outer sidewall of the first band element body to the inner sidewall of the second band element body, e.g., to allow the two band elements to be selectively disconnected and reassembled without tools.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element with a raised center or identification member. The band includes a second band element with a body having a loop or lasso at one end defined by an inner surface of a sidewall. The outer sidewall of the raised center member is detachably coupled to the inner surface of the loop-defining sidewall when the center member is received within and captured by the loop such as by a snap detent arrangement. To allow sizing, the second band element includes both an inner band sizing element including the loop-defining sidewall at one of its ends and an outer band sizing element that is detachably coupled to the inner band sizing element. The length of the second band element is defined by the combined length of the inner and outer band sizing elements.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a base band element with an elongated, thin body extending a first length from a first sidewall to a second sidewall. The body may include a user identification member that stores user ID information for a wearer of the band. The band includes a band sizing assembly with one, two, three, or more band sizing segments that are detachable linked together such as via a tongue and groove interlocking mechanism. The band sizing assembly extends a second length from first sidewall to a second sidewall, and these sidewalls are configured for coupling or linking with the sidewalls of the base band element body so as to form a closed loop or bracelet with a third length. A user may size the band by selecting the number and size of the sizing segments used in the band sizing assembly.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element with a body extending from a first to a second end, and the body may include a recessed surface or other receiving portion. The wearable band further includes a second band element or slidable extension with a body extending from a first to a second end. To provide user-selectable sizing, the second band element may be selectively positioned by sliding within the receiving portion of the first band element body so as to extend inward a desired engagement depth from the second end of the first band element body. A portion of the second band element body extends outward from the opening of first band element body such that this extending portion and a length of the first band element body combine to define an overall length of the wearable band assembly.

Abstract: In an image display device, the number of parts is reduced through simplification of fixing members for use in fitting a display panel to a front frame. Design of the device is improved by thinning the front upper side of the front frame and by getting fixing members out of sight on the back upper side thereof. The front frame has hooks, which are produced integrally with the front frame, on its upper back so as to position the display panel. The upper side of the front frame is not screwed. Instead, the hooks so act as to prevent the display panel from falling off the front frame. A back cover has ribs, which are produced integrally with the back cover, in its portion facing the hook. The ribs so act as to prevent the hook from moving beyond predetermined distance, thereby ensuring the positioning of the display panel.

Abstract: A rifle with an upper receiver and a barrel attached to the upper receiver and including a bolt carrier, and operating, buffer, and cooling systems. The operating system includes a cylinder and a piston coupled to receive propelling gases from the barrel. As the piston moves between retracted and extended positions the bolt carrier is moved between closed and open positions. The bolt carrier includes a weight movable within a guide frame between rearward and forward limits. The buffer system includes a compression spring in a tube attached to the upper receiver in abutting engagement with the bolt carrier. A partially fluid filled cylinder is attached to a coil of the spring and includes a piston and shaft. The piston is formed so that fluid in the cylinder restricts movement in one direction and allows free movement in a second direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for loading a barrel of a muzzle loading firearm to provide powder and a projectile at a breach end of the barrel. The apparatus comprises: (i) a handle having a central longitudinal axis and adapted to be gripped by one hand, the handle having an opening between opposed ends along the axis; (ii) a moveable casing having a head and mounted in the opening adjacent one end of the handle and adapted to receive a ramrod of the muzzle loading rifle into the casing; (iii) a retaining means for retaining the casing within the opening, the retaining means mounted on the handle with at least a portion of the retaining means mounted inside the opening; and (iv) a coil spring mounted in the opening inside the handle between the portion of the retaining means mounted in the opening and the head of the casing.

Abstract: Embodiments of the application can include a cleaning kit for a firearm and methods for using the same. Embodiments of a cleaning kit can include an elongated (e.g., flexible) shaft and different cleaning tips releasably attachable to and detachable from the shaft. First and second universal couplings can be respectively attached to ends of the shaft and cleaning tips to releasably attach the cleaning tips to the shaft. An adapter can have the first or second universal coupling on a first end and a retrofit coupler (e.g., internal or external threaded bore) on the second opposite end.

Abstract: A device for cleaning tubular passageways of a firearm that carries ignition products of a firearm propellant includes a relatively rigid hollow, tubular guide and a compliant cleaning rod within the bore of the hollow guide. The cleaning rod travels within the hollow guide before entering the tubular passageway to be cleaned. The cleaning rod is sufficiently flexible so as to be unable to support its own weight without substantial bending when supported at one end in a cantilever fashion. A cleaning kit is also provided including the cleaning device and a plurality of related cleaning items, such as brush-like cleaning elements.

Abstract: A sighting device is mountable to a gun. The device includes a light source (preferably a laser), a power source connectable to the light source and a mount attachable to the gun so that the laser is juxtaposed either the top surface of the gun or a side surface of the gun. In one embodiment, the sighting device includes a bottom rail mountable in a slot on the gun, wherein the slot is preferably positioned on the top surface of the gun. The sighting device may also include a mechanical sight that functions as the rear mechanical sight on the gun and/or a secondary light source.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter concerns a system and related method that forms a wall of bubbles, which is used to catch fish. The system consists of or can include, at least, two boats, two or more chambers, a suction pump, a compressor and a device that forms a wall of bubbles, constituted by one or more bubble making chambers, one or more conducting chambers, conducting tubes, floating tubes and ballast, which, by forming a “net” of bubbles, enables fish to be trapped and subsequently caught. Thus, the disclosed subject matter is useful for catching fish in a more economical and ecological manner, eliminating conventional nets and reducing the level of non-target species being caught. Another advantage is an improvement in the quality of the catch. This system can be used in the fishing industry and in aquaculture.

Abstract: A control system for a fishing line of a fishing rod and a reel with a spool having a fishing line. At least two cooperating dispensing members are arranged about the reel, so that the line emanates from the spool and is positioned between the dispensing members and a cooperating action of the dispensing members dispenses the line. A drag mechanism for providing resistance to dispensing motion of the line is also described. A docking station is provided for the reel. The reel may be specifically adapted to the interchangeable between the fishing rod and the docking station. Also described is a control system which measures the amount of line dispensed or wound in or both and a mechanism for attaching a reel to a rod. A kit for a fishing rod comprising a reel and a docking station is provided.

Abstract: An insect trap top 1 for mounting on a container 10 with a protrusion. The insect trap top 1 comprises at least one entrapment element 5 for entrapping an insect, at least one fastening element 2 for connecting the insect trap top 1 with the container 10. The at least one fastening element 2 comprises a flexible part with at least one securing member 6 such that when pressed on the container 10 the at least one securing member 6 and the protrusion 12 snap lock. Further an entrapment system 15 for entrapment of insects, comprising a container 10 with at least one protrusion 12 and an insect trap top 1 is disclosed.

Abstract: A surfactant package for a water-in-hydrocarbon emulsion includes a fatty acid component; a fatty acid salt component; an alcohol component and a salt of carboxylic acid. Emulsions formed using this surfactant package are stable and have ratios of water to surfactant of at least about 3.

Abstract: Multiple catalytic processing stations enable a method for producing volatile gas streams from biomass decomposition at discrete increasing temperatures. These catalytic processing stations can be programmed to maximize conversion of biomass to useful renewable fuel components based on input feedstock and desired outputs.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods for the conversion of lignocellulosic matter into fuel products. More specifically, the invention relates to methods for the generation of a bio-oil product from specific component(s) of lignocellulosic matter.

Abstract: In one aspect, a heterogeneous catalyst comprises calcium hydroxide and lanthanum hydroxide, wherein the catalyst has a specific surface area of more than about 10 m2/g. In another aspect, a heterogeneous catalyst comprises a calcium compound and a lanthanum compound, wherein the catalyst has a specific surface area of more than about 10 m2/g, and a total basicity of about 13.6 mmol/g. In further another aspect, a heterogeneous catalyst comprises calcium oxide and lanthanum oxide, wherein the catalyst has a specific surface area of more than about 10 m2/g. In still another aspect, a process for preparing a catalyst comprises introducing a base precipitant, a neutral precipitant, and an acid precipitant to a solution comprising a first metal ion and a second metal ion to form a precipitate. The process further comprises calcining the precipitate to provide the catalyst.

Abstract: This invention describes the use of doped nanomaterials for the conversion of non-edible oils into biodiesels with no undesirable products, higher yield and conversion at room temperature and standard atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A synergistic combination antioxidant mixture that provides excellent characteristics for biodiesel fuel compositions, when incorporated therein.

Abstract: Process for the purification of an aqueous stream coming from the Fischer-Tropsch reaction which comprises: feeding said aqueous stream containing the organic by products of the reaction to one or more pervaporation units, said one or more pervaporation units comprising at least one polymeric pervaporation membrane, obtaining two outgoing streams: —an aqueous stream (i) enriched in alcohols having from 1 to 8 carbon atoms, preferably from 2 to 4 carbon atoms; —an aqueous stream (ii) enriched in water.

Abstract: Methods and system are disclosed for making coated burnable fuels from source materials and to the coated burnable fuels derived therefrom.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel engineered fuel feed stocks, feed stocks produced by the described processes, and methods of making the fuel feed stocks. Components derived from processed MSW waste streams can be used to make such feed stocks which are substantially free of glass, metals, grit and noncombustibles. These feed stocks are useful for a variety of purposes including as gasification and combustion fuels.

Abstract: Disclosed is a lighting assembly for growing plants. The lighting assembly has a first light source emitting light in a first wavelength range of 600 to 750 nm; a second light source emitting light in a second wavelength range of 375 to 500 nm; and a controller for controlling the output of the first light source independent from the output of the second light source. Disclosed are also an enclosure for growing plants, and a method for growing plants.

Abstract: A cold frame is formed with lateral wall elements containing transparent hollow chamber panels, and supports which are provided with lateral flanges. The lateral wall elements include lateral edge areas provided with through-passages and formed by the hollow chamber panels thereof, and rest against the flanges of the supports. The lateral wall elements are connected to the supports by clamping devices. The clamping devices include clamping elements which rest against the inner sides of the hollow cavity panels forming the edge areas of the lateral wall elements and are clamped between the hollow cavity panels and the tops of positioning bars belonging to the clamping devices. The bars protrude from the through-passages of the hollow chamber panels and they are rigidly connected to the flanges of the supports.

Abstract: A three-dimensional planting construction comprises a three-dimensional framework (46), some water (5) and soil (4) for plants (22) to grow and some turnover shutters (16) for adjusting lighting in which water (5), soil (4) and the turnover shutters (16) are provided on the three-dimensional framework (46). The three-dimensional framework (46) made from concrete and wood is built around the building (10), other buildings or ground. Wind power generator sets (39) supply power to the planting construction. An overhead trolley (43) is installed on the three-dimensional framework (46) for working. The plants (22) are irrigated with a pump (37) from a well or waste water purified roughly.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for covering a plant growing medium. The device includes a sheet that defines an aperture. One or more protrusions extend from the sheet to engage a top surface of the plant growing medium. A wall is integrally attached to each edge of the sheet. Each wall has a series of ridges.

Abstract: A method of altering the level of at least one phytochemical in a harvested plant cell comprising chlorophyll or in harvested plant tissue comprising chlorophyll, the plant cell or tissue being capable of photosynthesis and/or being capable of blue light adsorption by shining blue light onto the surface of the plant cell or tissue, wherein the light intensity of the blue light striking the cell surface or the tissue surface is sufficient to initiate a biochemical process within the cell or tissue thereby altering the level of at least one phytochemical therein.

Abstract: The presently disclosed and claimed inventive concept(s) relates to methods for providing decorative covers, decorative collars and decorative cover-collar combinations for covering a flower pot. The decorative covers and/or collars are formed from a variety of configurations of heat shrinkable sheet of material placed over all or a portion of a peripheral surface of the flower pot and then heated to shrink the sheet of material into a pressing engagement against the outer peripheral surface of the flower pot.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a black water processing system includes a vacuum pressure flash tank configured to separate gases from black water. The system also includes an ejector with a suction chamber and a nozzle. The suction chamber is coupled to the vacuum pressure flash tank, and the nozzle is configured to discharge a motive fluid across the suction chamber to create a vacuum within the vacuum pressure flash tank.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a gasification system includes a black water processing system with flash tanks. The flash tanks may separate gases from black water to produce a first discharge of the black water and another discharge of separated gases. The gasification system also includes a heat exchanger that transfers heat from the discharge of separated gases to a process stream of the gasification system.

Abstract: An arched shutter configured for automated, simultaneous control of a plurality of louvers, the arched shutter comprises the plurality of louvers, a frame, a portion of which forms an arch, a base, wherein the plurality of louvers are installed between the base and the portion of the frame that forms an arch via a plurality of rod arms, a motor configured to drive one of the plurality of rod arms and therefore one of the plurality of louvers, and a plurality of linking apparatus connecting the plurality of louvers such that all of the plurality of louvers operate when the one louver is driven by the motor.