Abstract: A data enhanced tombstone contains audio, video, or text of the deceased and means to communicate to an electronic user device reproducing the audio and visual images.

Abstract: A memorial marker having a base for placement on a grave marker is provided. A spring element is coupled to the base and configured to affix the base to the grave marker. A rod having a first end and a second end is coupled to the base at the first end. The rod is disposed in a substantially upright position. The second end of the rod permits an ornament such as at least one of a medallion and a flag to be coupled to the second end of the rod. A kit for the memorial marker and a related method for memorializing a deceased individual are also provided.

Abstract: A monument usable for locating stationary geographical positions and/or assets includes a housing, comprising a body and a cap; at least one permanent magnet mounted on or in the housing; and at least one electronic marker located on or in the housing. The magnet has a magnetic field of sufficient strength for its location to be readily identified from outside the housing using a portable magnetic locator and the electronic marker includes an electronic transceiver for receiving and/or transmitting electronic information unique to the geographical location and/or functional properties of the monument or an asset associated with the monument.

Abstract: A memorial burial structure for a grave consists of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) article with earth mounting supports and personalized digital print that is constructed as a gravestone, burial monument, tomb, burial headstone or marker placed on the memorial site or desired site of the user.

Abstract: A marker pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potentially hazardous subsurface structures within the support medium includes a generally elongate pole body molded from a generally brightly colored plastic material with a penetrating end formed with a tapered tip for insertion into the support medium, the taper being greater than forty-five degrees from a centerline longitudinal axis of the; and a metal impact cap fitted over the end opposite the penetrating end, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, the planar surface being in substantial contact with the upper surface of the pole body for enhanced force transmission between the impact cap and the pole body during insertion of the pole into the support medium using an impact producing tool.

Abstract: A cenotaph memorial facility comprising a plurality of walls containing crypts is dedicated to an honoree who is not interred within the facility. The facility may comprise a large external memorial structure to protect the walls and individual crypts. The cenotaph memorial facility includes a plurality of video cameras to permit remote viewing of various portions of the facility. The video cameras are controlled by a computer system that allows remote access via a network, such as the internet. An individual enters authorization data and, upon authorization, can remotely view one or more portions of the facility. An on-line auction processor can automatically conduct auctions of selected articles using a timed auction over a prolonged bidding period or a real-time auction. In another aspect, a virtual reality (VR) image capture system captures images that may be remotely viewed using VR technology. This may include 3-D imaging, holographic imaging, or the like.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to grave markers incorporating a living memorial and methods of operation thereof. In one embodiment, a grave marker incorporating a living memorial includes a monitor and/or speakers electrically or wirelessly connected to a data storage device which stores a pre-recorded message from a deceased or living person of the deceased to be delivered to the deceased's survivors at a future time following the passing of the deceased. In one embodiment, the grave marker is adapted to enclose the monitor in a first position and to display the monitor in a second position when activated. In another embodiment, the grave marker is a stand-alone unit having the monitor and various other components embedded therein.

Abstract: The invention relates to an urn column, consisting of a segment (0) with a hollow body (1) which serves to receive and store a plurality of urn capsules (2). The urn capsules (2) are wrapped in urn carrier bags (3) with vertically adjustable carrying straps (4), and inserted into the upper cavity opening (5), suspended one above the other, extending from the bottom up. In so doing, each urn carrier bag (3), filled with the urn capsule (2), is fastened with vertically adjustable carrying straps (4) to the upper suspension annulus (6) and fixed in its particular position in the hollow body (1) of the urn column. The suspension annulus (6) is firmly connected to the upper cavity opening (5) of the urn column and both are covered with a cover (7) in any desired form. On the urn column surface the marking (8) of the urn column contents is provided by means of a suspension apparatus (9) which permits the attachment of flower vase holders (10) and grave candle holders (11).

Abstract: A below floor marker used to locate a pre-installed pipe stub below a finished concrete floor includes a coupling adapted for attachment to the pipe stub, and a cap which fits on the coupling to seal the pipe while pouring the concrete. The top wall of the cap lies an inch or so under the finished floor elevation (FFE). The cap has resilient filaments at a center thereof extending through the thin concrete layer to provide a visual indication of the pipe stub location. An electronic marker is retained within the coupling to provide an additional electromagnetic indication of the pipe stub location. The transmission axis of the electronic marker is aligned with the centerline of the cap/conduit/pipe to provide precise location of the stub. The cap may include an upper sidewall having outer annular notches which facilitate cutting the upper sidewall to a height of the FFE.

Abstract: A tombstone cover is described for the display of indicia. The cover has a member made from a flexible material adapted for disposal over the tombstone and a cinch. The member also has a front; a top; opposing sides; and a back. At least 50 percent of a height of the tombstone remains uncovered by the member.

Abstract: An improved cemetery experience whereby the cemetery and accompanying facilities may celebrate and demonstrate the passion and hobbies of the deceased individual. The contemplated themed cemetery may be a stand-alone cemetery that celebrates a common passion of a plurality of individuals, yet still maintains the traditional burial and memorialization process. The themed cemetery may take a specific event, or commonly understood and loved location and memorialize that location in the theme of a cemetery where those with that common interest and enjoyment of the commonly understood location may desire to be buried. The cemetery would closely resemble both visually, and physically a replica of the theme being celebrated and may provide space for the deceased while still providing adequate income and revenue in the way of advertising for the operator.

Abstract: A combination memorial and columbarium having a headstone, and an above ground base supporting the headstone. In an embodiment of the invention, one deceased person is interred in the earth ahead of the headstone, and the cremated remains of another deceased are secured in a chamber disposed in the headstone or the above-ground base. In an embodiment, at least two chambers are individually formed in an interior portion of the headstone. Each chamber has an opening providing access to the chamber and at least one of the chambers is adapted to securely hold the cremated remains of a deceased person or previously living being. Another chamber is adapted to securely and, in a sterile environment, hold the DNA material of one or more deceased individuals or previously living beings. In an embodiment, each chamber is further adapted to hold a container for securely enclosing the cremated remains of DNA of a deceased person. The chambers can either be in the headstone or the above ground base.

Abstract: A survey marker having a rod with a pointed tip and a shank extending therefrom composed of a rod or rebar material. A head extending from a distal end of the rod opposite the point may include means for retaining a survey flag, means for engaging a drive tool, and means for alignment.

Abstract: A marker pole for embedding in a support medium for drawing attention to potentially hazardous subsurface structures within the support medium includes a generally elongate pole body molded from a generally brightly colored plastic material with a penetrating end formed with a tapered tip for insertion into the support medium, the taper being greater than forty-five degrees from a centerline longitudinal axis of the; and a metal impact cap fitted over the distal end, the impact cap including a generally cylindrical body having an access opening on one end thereof and a substantially planar surface opposing the access opening, the planar surface being in substantial contact with the upper surface of the pole body for enhanced force transmission between the impact cap and the pole body during insertion of the pole into the support medium using an impact producing tool.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and system for maintaining the position of headstones in a cemetery. Previously, headstones installed at a cemetery may shift over time. As the ground beneath the headstone is subjected to erosion from frost, rain, snow, and wind, the headstone may settle and eventually sink partially into the ground. In some cases the headstones may become loose and fall, possibly getting damaged. The present invention provides a subterranean bridge comprised of concrete that the headstone rests upon. In this way, the headstone is supported by the concrete bridge structure, and is less affected by soil conditions, ground water, and freeze-thaw cycles. Since, by definition, the headstones are to be at the cemetery for an indefinite period of time, it is desirable to have a system to maintain the position of the headstone for the long term. The bridge is comprised of two caissons and a plinth.

Abstract: A device for marking a location. The device coming in two separate pieces, namely a ground stake and a marking post. The ground stake configured for insertion into a ground surface. The marking post configured for attachment to the ground stake. The post is preferably removable from the stake so that when livestock are present, if they uproot or displace the marking post portion of the device, the ground stake remains in the ground still marking the location. If a survey crew or other individual is at the marking location after the post has been removed, they can replace the post (or insert a replacement post) to return the device to its full functionality.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and system for maintaining the position of headstones in a cemetery. Previously, headstones installed at a cemetery may shift over time. As the ground beneath the headstone is subjected to erosion from frost, rain, snow, and wind, the headstone may settle and eventually sink partially into the ground. In some cases the headstones may become loose and fall, possibly getting damaged. The present invention provides a subterranean bridge comprised of concrete that the headstone rests upon. In this way, the headstone is supported by the concrete bridge structure, and is less affected by soil conditions, ground water, and freeze-thaw cycles. Since, by definition, the headstones are to be at the cemetery for an indefinite period of time, it is desirable to have a system to maintain the position of the headstone for the long term. The bridge is comprised of two caissons and a plinth.

Abstract: A grave site protection and marking apparatus comprising two longitudinal frame members and two lateral frame members; wherein each end of the lateral frame member is connected to a longitudinal frame member at one end of the longitudinal frame member, thereby forming a rectangular frame; wherein each longitudinal frame member comprises a top panel and two side panels that are perpendicular to the top panel and that extend downward; and wherein the top panel and side panels of each longitudinal frame member form an anchoring channel that anchors the frame to the ground when the apparatus is installed on a grave site. The frame formed by the longitudinal and lateral frame members lies nearly flush with the ground surface when the frame is installed on the grave site.

Abstract: A survey marker cap assembly (20) includes a cylindrical body (22) that has a top (34) with a connection shaft (38) that extends upwardly from the center of the top (34) through a hole (42) presented by a circular disk (40) that is placed upon the top (34) of the cylindrical body (22). The connection shaft (38) presents a dome (44) that extends radially over the disk (40) to secure the disk (40) upon the cylindrical body (22) and the dome (44) presents a female dimple (46) therein for centering with a plumb bob. The cylindrical body (22) and disk (40) consist of the same or different metals and the cylindrical body (22) includes threads (32) disposed there within for placement on a surveying stake.

Abstract: A monument assembly (10) formed from: (i) a headstone component (12); (ii) a rail assembly (14) attached to the headstone component (12); and (iii) an inlay panel (16, 16A) supported by and surrounded by the rail assembly (14A) surrounds and open space.

Abstract: The removable grade pin system includes a base pin and a removable upper pin. The base pin is a rod that is driven into the ground within the concrete form, typically such that the head of the base pin is approximately two inches below the desired level of concrete. The upper pin is a rod with a hollow bore formed in its lower end having a diameter slightly larger than the head of the base pin so that the upper pin telescopes over the base pin. The upper pin has an annular plate or disc extending about its center or medial section to mark the desired level of the concrete. The upper end of the upper pin provides a handle to remove the upper pin when the desired level of concrete has been poured into the form. The position of the circular plate on the upper pin may be adjustable.

Abstract: A combination memorial and columbarium having a headstone, and an above ground bass supporting the headstone. In an embodiment of the invention, one deceased person is interned in the earth ahead of the headstone, and the cremated remains of another deceased are secured in a chamber disposed in the headstone or the above-ground base. In an embodiment, at least two chambers are individually formed in an interior portion of the headstone. Each chamber has an opening providing access to the chamber and at least one of the chambers is adapted to securely hold the cremated remains of a deceased person or previously living being. Another chamber is adapted to securely and, in a sterile environment, hold the DNA material of one or more deceased individuals or previously living beings. In an embodiment, each chamber is further adapted to hold a container for securely enclosing the cremated remains or DNA material of a deceased person. The chambers can either be in the headstone or the above ground base.

Abstract: The invention provides a memorial assembly (10) including a memorial structure (11) and a security device (16) secured to the memorial structure (11). The security device (16) includes a sensing device for sensing disturbance of the memorial structure (11). The security device (16) also includes a transmitter operatively connected to the sensing device, to generate a wireless alarm signal in response to sensing of disturbance of the memorial structure (11) by the sensing device. The invention also provides a memorial security system which includes the memorial assembly (10) and also a transceiver module which receives the wireless alarm signal and which produces at least one notification message, such as a telephonic text message to prespecified notification address.

Abstract: A combination memorial and columbarium having a headstone, and a base supporting the headstone. At least one chamber for holding a cremation urn and/or the cremated remains of an individual is formed either in the headstone or the base. The chamber has an opening which is sealed either permanently or with a removable seal. In certain embodiments, the chamber is located in the headstone, and the opening may be plugged with a removable seal, or the opening may be sealed by the base of the monument. In another embodiment, the chamber is formed in the base, and the bottom portion of the headstone forms the seal for the chamber when the headstone is placed on the base. In an embodiment of the invention, one deceased person is interned in the earth ahead of the headstone, and the cremated remains of another deceased are secured in the chamber. The chamber may also be adapted to hold a DNA sample of the cremated individual for future family medical reference.

Abstract: A modular system for generation of acetylene gas, in a reactor suitable for the controlled reaction of calcium carbide and water, is disclosed. In this system, a self-container reactor module is provided which is suitable for coupling to an acetylene gas reservoir. In one of the preferred embodiments of this invention, this reactor module can include a primary and a secondary charge of calcium carbide, and a stoichiometric excess of water. Acetylene gas is formed by initial contact of a primary calcium carbide charge with water in the reactor reservoir. Upon essentially complete reaction of the primary charge and the water in the reservoir, the pressure within the reactor is monitored, as such gas is drawn off to fuel the operation of an internal combustion engine. Where such pressure drops to, or below a pre-determined level, a secondary charge of calcium carbide is contacted with the remaining water in the reactor reservoir, so as to prevent interruption in the fueling of the internal combustion engine.

Abstract: A template for temporary placement on the open upper end of a below-ground structure, including a rectangular body matching key dimensions of a permanent ground-level member to be installed, the body having an open bottom to engage the open upper end of the below-ground structure, a raised top surface, a back road-edge portion on one side of the body, and upright sidewalls. A method for using the template to facilitate adjustment of positioning of below-ground structures on which permanent ground-level members will be installed, the method involving placing, removing and re-placing the template while determining and adjusting positioning of the below-ground structure.

Abstract: An article of manufacture for covering a grave site with solid construction, made of ABS plastic covered with acrylic, will show epitaph, name and picture if desired of deceased loved one, can be made to remain flush with top of ground or protrude up out of the ground to a desired height, has outward tab around bottom to hold it securely underground, and can be made of other plastics covered by acrylic to resemble many materials including marble and granite.

Abstract: A template for temporary placement on the open upper end of a below-ground structure, including a body matching key dimensions of a permanent ground-level member to be installed, the body having an open bottom to engage the open upper end of the below-ground structure, a raised top surface, and an upright sidewall. A method for using the template to facilitate adjustment of positioning of below-ground structures on which permanent ground-level members will be installed, the method involving placing, removing and re-placing the template while determining and adjusting positioning of the below-ground structure.

Abstract: A display device made of transparent flexibly resilient plastic having a pair of nestable members forming a weather resistant framed area for holding flat planar display material such as a photograph or memorabilia or advertising material or the like.

Abstract: A metallic receptacle is embedded in the concrete material of a burial vault. The receptacle contains archival quality paper that records information identifying the person interred in the burial vault and the precise location at which the vault was buried. The receptacle is sealed by a cap that may be removed to access the archival information without opening the vault.

Abstract: A gravesite memorial display includes a shell structured to provide a weathertight interior. The shell is constructed of at least one fixed portion, at least one movable portion, and a transparent portion. The transparent portion enables items placed within the interior of the display to be viewed by nearby individuals. The movable portion, which is movably coupled to the fixed portion is arranged to be movable between a closed position, wherein the interior is sealed, and an open position, providing access to the interior. When in the open position, an individual may place items for display purposes within the weathertight interior and or remove items from the interior.

Abstract: A holder for memorial material includes a display panel with a front and rear surface, and an upper ledge attached to the display panel. The display panel has between the front surface and the rear surface a material space for the memorial material. One can insert the memorial material into the internal material space inside the display panel. The upper ledge is adapted to receive downward pressure of a magnitude sufficient to drive the display panel at least partially underground. The display panel also has right and left converging edges to facilitate the at least partial underground burial.

Abstract: A cremated remains holder and marker combination device includes a panel having a top side and a bottom side. The panel has at least one opening extending through the top and bottom sides. Indicia are selectively engraved in the top side for identifying cremated remains. At least one receptacle includes a bottom wall and a peripheral wall attached to and extending upwardly from the bottom wall. The peripheral wall has an upper edge attached to and extending along a length of a perimeter edge of the at least one opening. The receptacle is adjacent to the bottom side of the panel and defines a receiving device for receiving cremated remains. A plate is positionable over the at least one opening and is removably attached to the panel for selectively closing the at least one opening.

Abstract: A fastener for temporarily fastening a length of wire to the ground includes a U-shaped member having leg portions, a bridge portion bridging the leg portions, and a mount portion arranged at one end of the bridge portion. One of the leg portions has a length greater than the length of the bridge portion, and the mount portion is adapted to receive a visual indicator for identifying the location of the wire. An interior surface defined by the bridge of the U-shaped member captures the wire when the leg portions are inserted into the ground.

Abstract: A gravesite memory marker made of transparent flexibly resilient plastic having a pair of nestable members forming a weather resistant framed area for holding a photograph or other memorabilia and a pointed stake for insertion into the ground at the gravesite.

Abstract: The reflective marker allows a user to easily place the invention in a desired location without damaging the housing or structure of the marker. More specifically, the reflective marker that contains a foot cleat allowing a user to foot pressure to the cleat or to strike the cleat with a mallet/hammer to drive the invention into the ground. As a result, force is not exerted on the marker's external housing or marker's reflector, and the reflector's aesthetic appeal, structural integrity and reflecting capacity are kept intact. The reflective marker has a primary and a secondary anchor spike for securing the device in the ground.

Abstract: A retractable target marker is a device designed to provide golfers the ability to aim at a visible target when practicing in an open field. The device has been designed to withstand reasonable winds through the use of a retractable support element and a colored casing made from a compressible sheer, fishnet or nylon material. Contained within the retractable support element is a retractable arm that allows for the device to easily expand to height visible by golfers over several hundred yards away when in operation. The retractable support element also contains a lower extension that is placed within the ground during operation. The retractable target marker is designed to store compactly when not in use.

Abstract: A frame designed to hold worn or broken historical tombstones together indefinitely. The preferred stainless steel frame includes an integrated back panel on which the original inscription is engraved, thereby preserving the original inscription that may have faded due to age and weather to the point of illegibility.

Abstract: A marker in the shape of a flat round disc that has varying permanent information (18) (for identifying different objects) imprinted upon the top of the marker that identifies the marker's use and areas for information to be permanently inscribed by a user with a portable electric en-graving tool or for temporary information to be placed thereon. The marker has a varying size holes(16), (17) through the center of the marker from top to bottom that allows different types and sizes of anchors to be used to attach the marker to varying surfaces or mounting devices or materials. The marker has an additional hole (15) for other means of attachment. The marker is solid and made of a plastic that will flex and give and is permanent and durable and is produced in varying colors for visibility and identifying different objects.

Abstract: The present invention essentially comprises a phosphorescent paving block having a paving base, and a phosphorescent material in contact with the paving base. Additionally the paving block can also have a light-transmitting cover and a light-transmitting base on either side of the phosphorescent material to form a laminate.

Abstract: A monument marker (10) broadly comprises an ornament (14) for providing an aesthetic display, a pedestal (22) for supporting the ornament (14), a mirror (24) secured to the pedestal (22) for reflecting light onto the ornament (14), a light source (16) for generating the light, and a power source (18) for providing power to the light source (16). The ornament (14) is preferably semitransparent thereby allowing the light from the light source (16) to permeate and refract therethrough. The pedestal (22) is preferably hollow and preferably opens thereby allowing the pedestal (22) to contain one or more mementos. For example, the pedestal (22) may contain the mementos in the form of sports memorabilia, such as golf balls and/or baseball cards. Alternatively, the pedestal (22) may be solid and molded around the mementos and/or the mirror (24).

Abstract: A temporary gravesite marker for use in identifying a gravesite until a permanent gravestone is available includes a marker tablet which has a generally rectangular solid form with an upper surface to be marked with alphanumeric characters providing information regarding the deceased. The marker tablet is fabricated from a durable material and includes an upper surface and a substantially parallel bottom surface, both of which are substantially flat. The preferred marker tablet has a two-to-one (2:1) aspect ratio and measures 5½ inches by 11 inches with a 1{fraction (1/16)} inch thickness. The density of the material selected, based upon the overall volume, yields a weight for the marker tablet of approximately ten pounds. The alphanumeric characters are inscribed into the upper surface of the marker tablet by means of a prepared stencil and by sandblasting.

Abstract: A temporary gravesite marker for use in identifying a gravesite until a permanent gravestone is available includes a marker tablet which has a generally rectangular solid form with an upper surface to be marked with alphanumeric characters providing information regarding the deceased. The marker tablet is fabricated from a durable material and includes an upper surface and a substantially parallel bottom surface, both of which are substantially flat. The preferred marker tablet has a two-to-one (2:1) aspect ratio and measures 5½ inches by 11 inches with a 1{fraction (1/16)} inch thickness. The density of the material selected, based upon the overall volume, yields a weight for the marker tablet of approximately ten pounds. The alphanumeric characters are inscribed into the upper surface of the marker tablet by means of a prepared stencil and by sandblasting.

Abstract: A headstone brace has a first side brace having a channel along a portion of the first side brace, a second side brace having a channel along a portion of the second side brace where the second side brace is in an opposed and spaced channel-facing relationship with the first side brace, and at least one back brace secured on one end to the first side brace and on the other end to the second side brace where the headstone brace when attached to a headstone allows viewing of any inscriptions or artwork on the front of the headstone.

Abstract: An invention for cemeteries that unifies cemetery displays and the burial monument, and does away with the clutter of ground level displays. It has a receiving base adapted for attaching numerous displays. The receiving base is bonded to the monument or its base at an elevation that will reduce problems being experienced by maintenance personnel. The attachment is achieved by using extra strength adhesives that provide long term bonding. The displays can be joined to the receiving base in several different ways, but studs with male threads and displays with incorporated female threads have received favorable attention. The receiving base can be utilized but not limited to the attachment of vases, potted plants, religious symbols or other personal items. A cavity lined with female threads located in the display's bottom or sides simplifies the union of the base and display. All displays can be attached or removed at the convenience of the user.

Abstract: A survey marker having a rod with a pointed tip and a section of auger flights at a selected location thereof spaced apart from the tip, wherein the auger flights do not extend the entire length of the rod and preferably does not extend pass the half-way mark of the rod. A head extending from a distal end of the rod opposite the point includes means for retaining a survey flag, means for engaging a drive tool, and means for alignment.

Abstract: The present invention is a cemetery monument, memorial or grave marker and a method for assembling the same. The monument is attached to a solid stone base. Vertical metal or stone panels are affixed to each other and a top and bottom horizontal panel to form a substantially hollow chamber. At least one of the panels contains memorial indicia of the deceased. Openings are provided through at least one panel forming a decorative pattern. The monument or grave marker further includes illumination means and a power source electrically coupled to the illumination means.

Abstract: An extension device supportable above a substantially flat grave marker to provide one or more vase receptacles spaced above the marker, the device having a substantially horizontal frame member with an attachment member releasably connecting the frame member to a pedestal rising from the grave marker; and one or more vase receptacles attached to the frame member and spaced laterally away from the attachment member.

Abstract: The present invention is a metal memorial marker and a method of making the same. The invented marker is made of metal, preferably ⅛″ to ½″ thick, preferably with steel-chromium alloys, such as stainless steel, or a non-ferrous metals, such as aluminum, brass, bronze, or copper. The present invention is created by taking a plate of the metal and making markings upon one of the surfaces of the plate, said markings denoting a decoration. A computer could be used to guide the cutting equipment by following a preprogrammed template, and as such markings upon one of the surfaces of the plate would not necessarily be necessary. A wateijet, plasma cutting torch, laser torch or other cutting equipment is then used to make cuts along the markings made on the surface of the plate. Cutting the plate in such a manner results in the creation of openings through the plate, said openings when viewed together forming a decorative pattern.

Abstract: A burial monument having a memorabilia storage compartment incorporated therein. A monument is solid construction has a cylindrical boring removed to provide a compartment within the solid monument. The compartment is closed to form an airtight and watertight chamber by providing a cap with a gasket affixed thereto. The cap engages a threaded inner ring or is hinge mounted to the monument in alternative embodiments. A method for modifying burial monuments to provide a memorabilia storage compartment is also disclosed.