Abstract: A safety sign system comprises one or more traffic or informational signs, an expandable pole, a detachable umbrella canopy assembly, and a safety finial assembly. The signs are removably attached to a sleeve that surrounds a portion of a pole and rests upon a sign support. The sleeve with the signs attached swivels about the pole. The umbrella canopy assembly is attached to an upper end of the pole and may include additional features including reflective tape, vents, drop-down flaps, reflective coating, and lights. The safety finial assembly is removably attached to the top of the umbrella canopy assembly and may include flag supports, removable flags, and a safety light assembly. The safety sign system optionally further comprises a collapsible seat, a beverage holder, a satellite tracking device, a communication device, a base, and a control panel for operating the safety light and other features.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device and method directed to assisting individuals in identifying the wearer of the device. More specifically, the present invention generally relates to a device and method of use directed to assisting individuals in identifying the wearer of the device as a law enforcement officer (LEO) from various viewing angles of the wearer in lighted and unlighted environmental conditions. In one embodiment the device is comprised of identification elements, attachment elements, and quick disconnect elements. In another embodiment, the device is comprised of at least four identification elements, the attachment elements formed to hold two of the identification elements in the front and two in the back of the wearer of the device, and quick disconnect elements positioned along the attachment elements so that the wearer of the device can quickly interchange the identification elements and/or remove the device from the wearer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a combination picture frame and jewelry box. The device includes a first section that is hingedly attached to a second section. In one embodiment, the first section and the second section may resemble a steamer trunk. The first and second section can be manipulated into an open position and a closed position. The first and second section can remain securely closed in a closed position via a locking mechanism, which includes a keyhole that is disposed in the first section. The first section further includes a picture frame, while the second section includes a mirror. Each of the first and second sections includes a defined interior volume that is compartmentalized to organize various jewelry items such as rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and the like. In this way, the present invention provides a jewelry box with multiple features to reduce clutter and to increase versatility.

Abstract: Counting device designed to determine the number of shots and cartridges in a weapon, which comprises an activator sensor (11) that supplies an activation signal to a processor (12) in response to a mechanical impulse; the processor (12) in turn supplies a counting-initiation signal to a counting sensor (13) that supplies at least two counting signals offset by a predetermined period of time to the processor (12).

Abstract: A firearm comprising a barrel, a handguard disposed around the barrel; a manually operated pump-action reload mechanism, the pump-action reload mechanism comprising a hand-held actuation arrangement and a fore-end body, the fore-end body disposed around the barrel between the handguard and the barrel, and the hand-held actuation arrangement coupled to the fore-end body to operate the pump-action reload mechanism. In addition, or alternatively, the firearm may include a bolt carrier locking mechanism and/or a butt stock that may be folded on either side of the receiver.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of launching and retrieving a ballistically launched delivery device. A replaceable bullet trap with an axial cavity may be inserted into a launch delivery tube. The launch delivery tube may be attached to a ballistic muzzle. A projectile may be fired from the ballistic muzzle through the delivery tube and into the axial cavity of the replaceable bullet trap. An impulse and momentum of mass of the projectile may be transferred from the projectile to the replaceable bullet trap and then to the launch delivery tube to launch the launch delivery tube from the ballistic muzzle.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a device for supporting and displaying a handgun. In various embodiments, the device comprises a moisture barrier back plate, a pair of opposing looped fingers extending from the back plate, and at least one retention hook extending from a top portion of the back plate. Each looped finger comprises an upper support arm and a lower support arm, and each retention hook is structured and operable to be disposed within a hole in a display panel to connect and retain the device on the display panel. The device is fabricated of a non-marring material, e.g., a polymer or synthetic material such as Acrylic, Nylon 6, Carbon Fiber, etc., that will not scratch, abrade or mar any portion of the firearm.

Abstract: A firearm accessory that includes a body that is demountably attached to a firearm, the body containing: a camera; a microphone; a memory chip; a micro-controller operable to record a user's firearm activity into the memory chip as captured by the camera and the microphone; and, a trigger-switch mechanism demountably attached to a firearm-handle operable by a user's finger to turn the contents of the body on but not off. The body disposed on a firearm further includes a plurality of electronic components operable to: record audio, video, location, time, and date, at the time of usage of a firearm; and transmit the recorded a record audio, video, location, time, and date, outside of the body through a wire, a portable memory card, or wirelessly in realtime.

Abstract: A fishing net includes a hoop formed of a section of tubing bent to a loop-like configuration, the hoop defining a net opening. An elongate handle is secured to the hoop at a proximal portion thereof, and a net bag is supported on the hoop. The hoop is formed with a cross-sectional profile that varies along at least a portion of the length of the section of tubing. A method of forming a hoop for a fishing net is also provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting fishing conditions are disclosed. An example system includes a housing having a first portion connected to a second portion to create a watertight seal. The example housing encloses, for example, sensors configured to measure force applied to the housing and a processor to determine acceleration based on an output from the sensor, and to determine if the sensor output indicates a fish strike. Other sensors (such as sensors to measure water clarity, temperature, acidity, and the like) can also be included within the housing. The example housing also includes a transceiver communicatively coupled to the processor configured to wirelessly transmit an indication of the fish strike or other water conditions based on data received from the sensor(s). In an embodiment, the system provides for data aggregation, enabling anglers to ascertain fishing conditions based on data from a plurality of sensors over a wide geographic area.

Abstract: Foldable frame devices designed to transport fishing equipment and assorted items while functioning as a table and which are capable of being stored in confined spaces are disclosed. In an aspect, a foldable frame device may be carried by a user. The foldable frame device includes a rotating flat surface area which may be moved between a folded position and a usable position. In the folded position, the foldable frame device has a compact profile, thereby occupying a small amount of space for transportation or storage when not in use. In the usable position, the flat surface area extends away from the frame and may support items, such as fishing equipment.

Abstract: A method for the extermination of burrowing vermin is disclosed. The method employs a smoke generating fluid formed of castor oil or castor oil in a mix with secondary components. The fluid is heated to a smoking temperature and the smoke is mixed with a pressurized airflow to communicate the smoke to the tunnels occupied by the burrowing vermin to remove them, and to leave a residue from the smoke which exudes an order deterring the re-occupancy of the tunnels.

Abstract: A grain pest control apparatus includes an input unit adapted to accept input of grain; a heating unit adapted to heat the grain supplied from the input unit; and a removal unit adapted to remove heat from the grain heated by the heating unit, wherein the removal unit includes a cylindrical body provided with an air passage hole in a wall surface and adapted to receive the heated grain and a heat collecting chamber installed by surrounding the cylindrical body and connected to an exhaust channel, and removes heat from the heated grain by causing air supplied into the cylindrical body to pass through the air passage hole and escape via the heat collecting chamber.

Abstract: A liquid fuel composition comprising: (a) a gasoline base fuel suitable for use in an internal combustion engine; (b) one or more organic UV filter compounds selected from imidazoles, triazines, triazone and triazoles, and mixtures thereof. The liquid fuel composition provides benefits in terms of improved acceleration and/or power output of an internal combustion engine fuelled by said fuel as well as an increase in flame speed.

Abstract: Certain UV filter compounds improve the combustion properties of diesel fuel compositions, and in particular modify the ignition delay and/or modify the burn period and/or modify the peak pressure and/or increase the cetane number of the liquid fuel composition. A liquid fuel composition is provided containing: (a) a diesel base fuel suitable for use in an internal combustion engine; and (b) in the range of 10 ppmw to 2 wt %, by weight of the liquid fuel composition, of one or more organic UV filter compounds selected from imidazoles, triazines, triazones and triazoles, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: The use of a polyalkylene glycol of formula HO—(A—O)p—(CH2CH2—O)m—(A—O)q—H wherein A is a C3- to C20-alkylene group or a mixture of such alkylene groups, m is a number of from 2 to 100 and p and q are each numbers of from 1 to 100, as an additive in a fuel for reducing fuel consumption in the operation of an internal combustion engine with this fuel.

Abstract: The object of the present invention relates to a composition that can be used as fuel comprising: at least one hydrocarbon mixture at least one hydrophobic ketal or acetal of glycerine. Said composition can be advantageously used as fuel for diesel or gasoline engines.

Abstract: High octane unleaded aviation gasoline having low aromatics content and a T10 of at most 75° C., T40 of at least 75° C., a T50 of at most 105° C., a T90 of at most 135° C., a final boiling point of less than 210° C., an adjusted heat of combustion of at least 43.5 MJ/kg, a vapor pressure in the range of 38 to 49 kPa and a freezing point of less than ?58° C. is provided.

Abstract: High octane unleaded aviation fuel compositions having a CHN content of at least 97.2 wt %, less than 2.8 wt % of oxygen content, a T10 of at most 75° C., T40 of at least 75° C., a T50 of at most 105° C., a T90 of at most 135° C., a final boiling point of less than 210° C., an adjusted heat of combustion of at least 43.5 MJ/kg, a vapor pressure in the range of 38 to 49 kPa is provided.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to additive compositions and their use for improving the low temperature properties of motor fuels and fuels. The additive compositions include at least one modified alkylphenol-aldehyde resin and at least one filterability additive chosen from: the terpolymers of C4 to C22 alkyl (meth)acrylate, C20 to C24 alpha-olefin and maleimide N-substituted by a hydrocarbon chain having between 4 and 30 carbon atoms, the homopolymers of C1 to C40 alkyl (meth)acrylate, preferably the C8 to C24 alkyl polyacrylates, the ammonium salts of mono- or poly-carboxylic acid comprising at least one linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon chain, having between 4 and 30 carbon atoms. The present disclosure also relates to compositions of motor fuels or liquid hydrocarbon fuels including such compositions.

Abstract: The use of a complex ester obtainable by esterification reaction between aliphatic linear or branched C2- to C12-dicarboxylic acids, aliphatic linear or branched polyhydroxy alcohols with 3 to 6 hydroxyl groups, and, as chain stopping agents, aliphatic linear or branched C1- to C30-monocarboxylic acids or aliphatic linear or branched monobasic C1- to C30-alcohols, as an additive in a fuel for reducing fuel consumption in the operation of an internal combustion engine with this fuel.

Abstract: High octane unleaded aviation fuel composition having high aromatics content and CHN content of at least 97.8 wt %, less than 2.2 wt % of oxygen content, a T10 of at most 75° C., T40 of at least 75° C., a T50 of at most 105° C., a T90 of at most 135° C., a final boiling point of less than 190° C., an adjusted heat of combustion of at least 43.5 MJ/kg, a vapor pressure in the range of 38 to 49 kPa is provided.

Abstract: High octane unleaded aviation fuel compositions having high aromatics content and a CHN content of at least 98 wt %, less than 2 wt % of oxygen content, an adjusted heat of combustion of at least 43.5 MJ/kg, a vapor pressure in the range of 38 to 49 kPa, freezing point is less than ?58° C. is provided.

Abstract: The use of an alkoxylated polytetrahydrofurane of formula wherein m, m?, n, n?, p, p? and k are integers in the range of ?1, R1 denotes an unsubstituted linear or branched alkyl radical, R2 denotes —CH2—CH3, and R3 denotes a hydrogen atom or —CH3, as an additive in a fuel for reducing fuel consumption in the operation of an internal combustion engine with this fuel.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an advanced wood pellet used for producing energy where under combustion, the advanced wood pellet produces vapors that have less acid, burns hotter, and thereby burns more completely resulting in less ash during combustion when compared to traditional wood pellets.

Abstract: A plant growing system protects plants during spring, for early and/or fast growth, and supports the plants later in the growing season. Frames hold panels that protect the plants by enclosing, shielding, and/or shading the interior growing space, and upon removal of the panels, the frames may support the larger plants and their fruit/vegetables. Multiple cooperating frames pivotally connect to form modular units of various sizes and shapes, and a latching/locking feature may stabilize the unit by preventing accidental disconnection of the frames. The frames may include feature(s) that allow, and stabilize, stacking of multiple units for accommodating taller plants. The panels held by the frames may be translucent/transparent, opaque, or a combination of the two, for customizing the interior environment inside each modular unit to the plant(s), the time of year, and/or the location and climate.

Abstract: A system for creating a nitrate combined with a liquid. A corona discharge cell to generate an electrical field. The corona discharge cell further comprising a conduit to pass air through the electrical field to produce nitric oxide NO, wherein the air comprises a mixture of at least nitrogen N2 and oxygen O2, the conduit for combining the nitric oxide NO with the oxygen O2 to form nitrogen dioxide NO2. The corona discharge cell further comprising an injector for combining the nitrogen dioxide NO2 with the liquid to generate nitric acid HNO3 which combines with the liquid to generate the nitrate comprised of nitrate radical NO3 mixed with the liquid.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides materials and methodology for growing plants, such as small fruit plants. For example, and in one embodiment, agricultural by-products, such as nut shells, could be used as or in a plant growth medium for growing a strawberry, raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, and/or black-raspberry.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a plant of the family Violaceae, in particular to a pansy plant having shortened growing time. In particular, a plant of the invention grows significantly faster than a control plant when grown at the same time and under the same conditions. Methods of growing a pansy plant of the invention and uses thereof are also provided.

Abstract: Soil/seed hydrophilization polymers comprising: monomer Ab comprising at least one betaine group or at least one cationic group; and optionally, monomer Ba comprising at least one non-ionic group or at least one anionic group, wherein the polymer is water-soluble or water-dispersible; and provided that if the monomer Ab comprises a cationic group, the monomer Ba must be present and comprise an anionic group. Also disclosed are methods for treating soil comprising contacting the hydrophilization polymer with the soil, with improvements including increase in hydrophilicity of the soil, increase in root characteristics, increase in germination rates, as compared to soil without the hydrophilization polymer.

Abstract: An apparatus to water plants made from a pliable and flexible sheet that, in a storage position, comprises a plane. The apparatus includes an elongated main part with a central, longitudinal axis. The main part includes a first arm that extends along a first edge of the main part on a first side of the longitudinal axis, a second arm that extends along a second edge of the main part on a second side of the longitudinal axis, and a foot that extends along the longitudinal axis between the arms. In an operational state of the apparatus, the edges of the main part are bent up and out from the longitudinal axis and the arms are attached to each other to form a bridge over the main part by a releasable fastener such that the main part forms a trough-shaped bottom along the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving nutrient delivery to plants in a hydroponics system is disclosed. A farming assembly in accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention include a frame (18), a flume (12), and an adjuster (16). The frame is configured to hold a plurality of plants (14) in plant receiving positions above a flume, wherein the flume contains a liquid such as a water and nutrient solution. The adjuster controls the distance between the plurality of plants in the frame and the liquid in the flume by either raising the frame with respect to the flume, lowering the flume with respect to the frame, or utilizing a gate (36) as a dam within the flume. Thus, the various embodiments of the present invention adjust the ratio of roots (19) exposed to air or immersed in liquid.

Abstract: A door closer comprises a piston cooperating with a rotating pinion. Upon rotation of the pinion in the door opening direction, the piston moves toward the second end of the housing forcing fluid from a second variable volume chamber through a passage to a first variable volume chamber and compressing a spring assembly for storing energy. The spring assembly urges the piston toward the first end of the housing for forcing fluid from the first variable volume chamber to the second variable volume chamber and rotating the pinion in the door closing direction. A controller controls the position of a valve in the passage based on the sensed angular position of a door and the position of the valve for determining the amount of hydraulic fluid flowing through the valve.

Abstract: Some embodiments relate to an access point security unit which, when deployed, provides a hindrance for passing through an access point. Such a unit includes a deployment apparatus and a plurality of lengths of barbed strip material which can be moved between a stowed position, in which the access point is not obstructed by barbed strip material and a deployed position, in which the plurality of lengths of barbed strip material lie across the access point. In the deployed position, the barbed strip material is, in some embodiments, fully enclosed unless the access point is breached.

Abstract: A product includes a panel that can be used in place of a door in a cabinet. The dimensions of the panel are such that it covers the opening in the cabinet that was covered by the cabinet door. A pet door (e.g., an opening with a moveable flap or cover) is installed in a precut opening in the panel. A litter containment system (which includes a litter box or something else of similar purpose) can be placed inside the cabinet. A pet (e.g., a household pet such as a cat or dog) can reach the litter box or the like through the pet door. The panel includes features that allow it to be readily installed, removed, and re-installed, so that the pet owner can easily reach, remove, empty/clean, and replace a litter box or the like that is inside the cabinet.

Abstract: A cover opening and closing mechanism includes a first cover member having a first sheet placing surface and a second cover member having a second sheet placing surface. The first cover member has a first engagement part at a distal end of the first sheet placing surface, the second cover member has a second engagement part at a distal end of the second sheet placing surface so that the first sheet placing surface is flush with the second sheet placing surface. During a process in which the first cover member swings in a close direction, a first contact part of the first cover member, which is other than the first sheet placing surface, contacts to a second contact part of the second cover member, which is other than the second sheet placing surface, before the first engagement part contacts to the second engagement part.

Abstract: A method of operating a window having a sash and a window opening limit device includes moving the sash from a closed position to a limited position. When in the limited position, the window opening limit device is in a projected position, and the sash is engaged with the window opening limit device. Moving the window opening limit device to a retracted position disengages the sash and the window opening limit device. The sash may then be moved from the limited position to an open range. When the sash is returned to the closed position, the window opening limit device automatically returns to the projected position, and the sash is disengaged with the window opening limit device.

Abstract: A layer of matrix powder is deposited within a mold opening. A layer of super-abrasive particles is then deposited over the matrix powder layer. The super-abrasive particles have a non-random distribution, such as being positioned at locations set by a regular and repeating distribution pattern. A layer of matrix powder is then deposited over the super-abrasive particles. The particle and matrix powder layer deposition process steps are repeated to produce a cell having alternating layers of matrix powder and non-randomly distributed super-abrasive particles. The cell is then fused, for example using an infiltration, hot isostatic pressing or sintering process, to produce an impregnated structure. A working surface of the impregnated structure that is oriented non-parallel (and, in particular, perpendicular) to the super-abrasive particle layers is used as an abrading surface for a tool.

Abstract: A particulate material includes an abrasive particle having a superabrasive material with an external surface, and a coating including a metal overlying the external surface of the abrasive particle. The coating can include domains having an average domain size of not greater than about 260 nm, and the coating can include between about 1 wt % and about 20 wt % of the total weight of the abrasive particle and coating.

Abstract: An air containment system (22) is configured to span an aisle (12) formed by two rows of racks (14,16) or by one row of racks (14) and a wall (56) to form a ceiling. The air containment system (22) includes a frame structure (24) configured to be supported by the two rows of racks (14,16) or by the one row of racks (14) and the wall (56). The air containment system (22) further includes at least one ceiling panel (30) releasably supported by the frame structure (24), and a lock assembly (64) coupled to the frame structure (24) and configured to release the at least one ceiling panel (30) upon detecting a predetermined condition. Embodiments of the air containment system (22) and methods for releasing ceiling panels (30) are further disclosed.

Abstract: A telescopic and retractable bleacher system and handrail that stows with the bleacher system. The bleacher system is adapted to move between an open position in which seating is available for use and a closed position in which rows of seating surfaces are vertically stacked. The system includes handrails adapted to move between a use position when the system is in the open position and a stowed position when the system is in a closed position. A post of the handrail includes a cam and a cylinder surrounding the post includes a cam slot. A ramp on a surface of the aisle step engages the post and raises the post within the cylinder as the bleacher system is moved into the open position. As the post is raised in the cylinder, the corresponding cam and cam slot cause rotation of the post.

Abstract: A kit (100) for erecting a polygonal reinforced enclosure in situ is disclosed. The aforesaid kit comprises: (a) a framework (110) defining overall enclosure dimensions and having open flank areas; the frame (110) provided with securing means; and (b) a plurality of reinforcement members (120) being securable within the frame (110) by means of the securing means. The kit (100) further comprises a plurality of panels (140) configured to overcast the flank area. The panels (140) are securable to the reinforcement members (120). A volume defined by the framework (110) and the panels (140) is fillable with a filler for solidifying said en closure.

Abstract: A pre-embedded piece includes a reinforcing steel bar and a screw rod. The reinforcing steel bar includes a body and an embossed portion formed on an outer periphery of the body. An end of the screw rod is connected to an end of the reinforcing steel bar. A method for producing a pre-embedded piece includes preparing a reinforcing steel bar and a screw rod. The reinforcing steel bar includes a body and an embossed portion formed on an outer periphery of the body. The reinforcing steel bar and the screw rod are placed end to end and fused together. A reinforcing steel structure of an embodiment includes a plurality of main bars, a plurality of hooped columns, and a plurality of pre-embedded pieces. A reinforcing steel structure of another embodiment includes a plurality of hooped columns and a plurality of pre-embedded pieces.

Abstract: Systems and methods for disposing and supporting a solar panel array are disclosed. The embodiments comprise various combinations of cables, support columns, and pod constructions in which to support solar panels. The solar panels can incorporate single or dual tracking capabilities to enhance sunlight capture. The embodiments encourage dual land use in which installation of the systems minimizes disruption of the underlying ground. Supplemental power may be provided by vertical axis windmills integrated with the columns. Special installations of the system can include systems mounted over structures such as parking lots, roads and aqueducts. Simplified support systems with a minimum number of structural elements can be used to create effective support for solar panel arrays of varying size and shapes. These simplified systems minimize material requirements and labor for installation of the systems.

Abstract: A device, method and kit for keeping humidity/water away from a concrete foundation and provide insulation. The method comprises the steps of providing a plurality of devices comprising a main body configured so as to be stackable and having opposed upper and lower surfaces each comprising a plurality of drainage openings therethrough, the main body forming a cavity therein encompassing a plurality of particles having a diameter larger than the openings' diameter, and positioning the plurality of devices in contact with a soil-facing surface of the concrete foundation such that the lower surfaces of the devices face downward.

Abstract: A system for mounting a solar panel(s) on a building, where the solar panel has an outer frame defining a lip. The system may include a plurality of panel mounting brackets each including a base to be positioned on the building, and a vertical extension having a proximal end coupled to the base and a distal end vertically spaced apart from the base, with the distal end defining a fastener channel therein. The system may also include a plurality of mounting clamps each including a bottom flange, and a top flange spaced apart from the bottom flange and partially overhanging the bottom flange and defining a slot therebetween to receive the lip. An end extension may couple respective ends of the bottom flange and top flange together, and a fastener channel connector may be coupled to the bottom flange and configured to be slidably received within the fastener channel.

Abstract: A step for installation into an attic that is easily installed on the existing beams within a typical attic to provide a safer and easier means to maneuver within a home's attic space. The step is produced using a single piece of sheet metal. In addition, the step is installed into the attic by securing teeth on the bendable tabs of the step to the existing beams using a hammer with the optional use of additional fasteners.

Abstract: Certain embodiments provide systems and methods for providing a window wall with flush slab edge covers. A window wall system can include a sill receptor configured to fixably attach to a top surface of a slab. The window wall system may include a head receptor configured to fixably attach to an underside surface of the slab. The window wall system can include a window wall panel including panel infill and a panel sill configured to detachably couple to the sill receptor. The window wall system may include a slab edge cover including cover infill. The slab edge cover can be configured to detachably couple to the window wall panel and the head receptor. In various embodiments, an exterior surface of the panel infill and an exterior surface of the cover infill are configured to flushly align when the slab edge cover is detachably coupled to the window wall panel.

Abstract: A modular building system for constructing a multi-story building includes prefabricated modular units. Each modular unit includes a horizontal slab for forming a floor/ceiling of the building, a joist extending horizontally along a first edge of the slab, the joist extending below the slab and extending horizontally beyond the first edge of the slab to form a receiving lip, columns positioned on top of the slab along the first edge, and connectors installed in cavities formed in the unit. A floor of the multi-story building is formed by arranging the modular units so that the slab of a first modular unit is positioned on the receiving lip of a second modular unit. An additional floor of the multi-story building is formed by arranging the modular units so that the joist portion of an upper modular unit is positioned on the columns of a lower modular unit.

Abstract: A pole base provides a secure mounting structure that can easily be adapted for use with multiple configurations of poles. The pole base may include a body having an upper portion and a pole attachment device disposed on or within the upper portion of the body. The pole attachment device may be a plate configured to removeably receive a plurality of fasteners such that each of the plurality of fasteners may be received in the separate plate in a plurality of locations. Alternatively, the pole attachment device may be a plurality of recesses formed within the upper portion of the body.