Abstract: A snap ring installation tool includes a finger gripping portion, a middle portion which is generally integral with the finger gripping portion, an arcuate open cylindrical portion, having an interior surface and a predetermined radius of curvature matching that of the snap ring. The snap ring installation tool may be used to install a snap ring of a clothes dryer hose, an attachment ring of a garbage disposal or other application.

Abstract: An earpiece using optical fiber shields the human brain from radio frequency radiation generated by wireless phones and similar radio devices. The disclosed device and method prevents unwanted exposure to potentially harmful radiation and provides an enhanced communication path between a cell phone and ear-piece.

Abstract: An integrated bottle enclosure includes a top cap, bottom cap, rigid straw casing and telescoping straw assembly to provide efficient means to contain a straw within a sealed bottle. Opening the top cap presents a straw ready for immediate use, or the straw may be grasped and pulled, to reveal ample straw length for keeping a consumer's mouth away from the bottle. The top cap and bottom cap connect by means to create a secure straw vault which prevents fluid from leaking out of the straw.

Abstract: A database and communications server allow for composure of a family disaster plan that is tailored to the demographic and geographic information provided by a subscriber to the disclosed system. In the event of an emergency, relevant portions of a family disaster plan are communicated to a subscriber and the family members of the subscriber. Each subscribing family member may communicate with the database, which in turn automatically distributes the message to all family members. After the disaster has ended, insurance information is relayed to the subscriber, and the subscriber's insurance companies are notified.

Abstract: The invention is a contact, calendar, workflow, and intelligence gathering application that allows a user, such as a financial advisor to collect, codify and analyze objective and subjective data regarding clients, corporate/institutional accounts, contacts/prospects, financial products and market trends. The invention assists a financial advisor in batch calling, scheduling work, delegating tasks and facilitating associative intellect, allowing a user to test hunches or “wispy thoughts” to discovery client and market trends.

Abstract: A clear, high quality voice signal with a high signal-to-noise ratio is achieved by use of an adaptive noise reduction scheme with two microphones in close proximity. The method includes the use of two omini directional microphones in a highly directional mode, and then applying an adaptive noise cancellation algorithm to reduce the noise.

Abstract: A noise reduction system and method suitable for hands-free communication comprises a first microphone located in a wireless or cordless headset and a second microphone located within a separate communication device. The first microphone may be placed within a headset attached to or near the ear of the user while the second microphone may be located further away from the user's mouth. The first microphone collects the intended voice signal and ambient background or environmental noise while the second microphone primarily collects ambient noise rather than a voice signal. The inputs to the two microphones are synchronized and the ambient noise of the second microphone is used to compensate or remove noise from the first microphone, such as by subtracting the noise from the second microphone from the input of the first microphone. Noise reduction or noise cancellation is achieved through continuous time quadrant modulation, environmental noise counterbalancing, and/or through other means.

Abstract: A barrel (14)for a gas powered ball machine of the type used to simulate balls propelled whilst playing ball sports, especially those machines used to propel balls with a raised seam, such as a baseball or softball. The barrel (14) has one or more openings (160) along its cylindrical length that allow expanding gas to escape as a ball is fired from the machine. The openings (160) assist in predicting the pressure and volume of gas required to repeatedly propel a ball at a predetermined speed from the ball machine.

Abstract: A system for marking bottles to be stored in horizontal or tilted positions uses durable and reusable components to secure user created labels to the top or bottom of bottles, such as wine bottles. A badge is used for marking insignia helpful to the user in locating and/or identification of the bottle. The badge may be inserted into a badge holder that contains the badge and prevents the badge from rotating within the badge holder. For bottles stored with the tops facing the user, the badge holder is secured to the top of the bottle. For bottles stored with the bottoms facing the user, the badge holder is secured to a bottle bottom adaptor that fastens to the bottom of a bottle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the demodulation, filtering, decimation and optional voltage multiplication of modulated signals to produce in-phase and quadrature outputs using a discrete time architecture.

Abstract: Three rectangular panels create an adjustable golf swing plane and physical barrier suitable for teaching and practicing any golf shot with any golf club. In the preferred embodiment, the three panels are pivotally secured by a living hinge system. One side of the base panel is grooved to secure the panel used for driving. For bunker shots, the base panel rotates 180 degrees for placement under sand. For putting, a putter slides across the putting panel and an integrated mirror provides the golfer visual alignment of the golfer's eyes, shoulders and putter.