Abstract: A power controller for applying power to an induction motor or similar AC load has a variable drive circuit for staring and switching a portion of the AC input line power. In one mode, the input line power is fed straight through to the load. In another mode, the AC waveform is reshaped to improve the power factor or to boost its RMS value, e.g., for brownout protection. In a further mode the output power can be provided at a different frequency from the input line power. Vector control increases efficiency through power optimization, with sensing of load requirements. Sensing of regeneration pulses at the commencement of a half cycle can be employed for direct sensing of motor speed or load.

Abstract: A lock-nut wrench has an elongated handle and a head at one or both ends of the handle. The head or heads have right and left arcuate jaws with distal ends that define a gap and each jaw has a first radially inwardly directed tooth at its distal end and a second radially inwardly directed tooth spaced proximally from it, defining spaces to accommodate diametrically opposed lugs. An offset can join each head to the handle. The inside of the head, that is, the inside of the jaws proximal of the second teeth, define a cylindrical surface that matches the radial outer extent of the lock nut lugs. The wrench can operate as a spanner, and can accommodate either a six- or an eight-lug lock nut. The handle is coated with an insulating plastic material. The ends of the jaws can be snubbed or hog-nosed. The wrench head may be adapted for use with a socket wrench handle. The wrench can be formed by laser-machining sheet or plate metal stock.

Abstract: A networked copier and printer system permits on-line payment for use of copier or computer printer, charging against a positive balance customer account stored at a central station, and permits customers to add to their copier account. A network transaction station accepts a customer ID from a magnetic card or bar code reader, or from a keypad input. After the customer enters his or her PIN, the account balance is downloaded from the central database, and the copier or printer is enabled. An add-value station on the network allows the customer to deposit cash and add to his or her account balance, after entering a customer ID and PIN. The value added station presents a receipt that omits the customer account identification but contains a unique transaction tracking code. An off-line mode permits copying during network outages.

Abstract: PWM AC power is supplied to an induction motor or other AC load. The frequency and magnitude of the waveforms is controlled by detecting the peak voltage or width of the reverse EMF pulses at the commencement of the power waveform applied to the load, and then adjusting the applied AC power based on the detected peak voltage or width. Alternatively, the depth of width of a notch that follows the reverse EMF pulse can be detected and used to control the applied AC power.

Abstract: A safety syringe employs a mechanical logic arrangement to control the movement of a spring-biased protective shield that covers the needle except during an injection, and which limits the number of injection cycles. The mechanical logic arrangement can include a series of parallel gated tracks, and a track follower pin disposed on the slide portion of the protective shield. There are one-way gates and redirection gates, which can be formed as flaps with a radial hinge in respect to the barrel axis. An alternative arrangement can employ a rotary cam. The number of injection cycles can be two or more, and the penetration depth for a given injection cycle can be controlled.

Abstract: A bus system which includes two or more voltage-to-current transformers, a common bus, a terminal bus coupled to a voltage source, two or more first switches, and a selection circuit. Each of the voltage-to-current transformers converts a voltage signal to a current signal. The common bus carries the current signals from the voltage-to-current transformers to an output bus. Each of the first switches has a first position where an output from one of the voltage-to-current transformers is coupled to the common bus and a second position where the output is coupled to the terminal bus. The selection circuit is coupled to each of the first switches and controls movement of each of the first switches between the first and second positions.

Abstract: A slug barrier employs a salt or another non-toxic irritant to gastropods. An elongated flexible edge barrier extends along a margin of the garden, and has a lower edge protruding into the soil and an upper edge extending above the soil. A channel member formed at the upper edge holds a length of wicking material. The wicking material can be a compressed flat synthetic sponge. A paste of salt and other possible minor constituents is charged into the wicking material. The salt is an irritant to garden slugs and snails. Cayenne pepper and garlic juice can be added as know deterrents to a insects and animals such as rabbits. A liquid organic detergent in the paste prevents animals such as deer from licking or biting the sponge. The detergent deters other animals from crossing the barrier.

Abstract: A remote operator includes a laser-actuated photo switch. A hand held laser sweeps past an active or sensitive area on the unit to cause the unit to change states, e.g., between “on” and “off.” In a lamp dimmer implementation, pointing the laser at the unit can cause it to increment (between dim and bright, fast and slow, soft and loud, etc.). The laser produces a narrow beam of laser light at a single characteristic wavelength. A dark filter or other optical filter can be disposed over the optical sensor element for passing only light at the laser's characteristic wavelength. A monostable, bistable or other multivibrator unit can be employed to effect toggling or a timed on (or timed off) operation. The remote operator can be integrated into the housing or body of the load device, e.g., into a ceiling fan, wall switch, table lamp, or any other device in need of remote controlled operation.

Abstract: A solar collector array is formed of a plurality of solar panels mounted on a frame made of support beams which may be sheet metal channel members. A butyl tape or other glazing material is applied between the back laminate of the solar panel and the beam. Clips are used to clamp the panels to the support beams. The clips have an upper portion that is generally T-shaped in profile, and a retainer in the form of a channel nut or bar, with a threaded hole that receives a bolt or similar threaded fastener. The retainer biases against the inwardly directed flanges of the channel support beam. Electrical wires and mechanical fasteners are concealed within the support beams.

Abstract: A replacement string arrangement for a string trimmer employs a brace in which the string is affixed. The brace has an arcuate member with an annular guide tunnel or guide sleeve at one end. The cutting string has an end affixed at a second end of the arcuate member. The string extends out that one end, then forms a loop or bight, and then passes slidably through the guide tunnel and continues radially outward. A free end of the string projects from the cutting head when the replacement string arrangement is installed in the cutting head. The brace and string can be unitarily formed, or the string can be fused into the one end of the arcuate member. The brace may have a wishbone shape. The string profile or cross section may be shaped for improved aerodynamics or improved cutting.

Abstract: A surface mount ceramic package, e.g. for a microwave or millimeter wave integrated circuit device, has outer conductive pads that are available for direct connection with traces on the printed circuit board. A metal core or base has spaces at one or more sides, e.g., voids or cutouts, where the outer pads are located. There is a first ceramic layer disposed on the core, with a central cavity for the die, and an upper or second ceramic layer. Printed traces are buried between the two layers, and vias connect the traces with the outer pads. Inner pads are located on a ledge of the first layer adjacent the cavity for connection with electrodes of the die. Each of the first and second ceramic layers may be stacked ceramic tape. The package may be LTCC or HTCC. This construction avoids inductive losses, especially at higher frequencies.

Abstract: A bus system and an imager for transferring signals from a plurality of signal streams to an output includes a plurality of signal buses in parallel and a control system. The control system multiplexes the signals from two or more of the plurality of signal streams onto two or more of the plurality of signal buses and allows the signals to substantially charge each of the two or more of the plurality of signal buses before demultiplexing the signals to the output. A method for transferring signals includes multiplexing signals on to two or more of a plurality of signal buses and allowing the signals to substantially charge each of the two or more of the plurality of signal buses before demultiplexing the signals to an output.

Abstract: A wheelchair clamp connects together a pair of wheelchairs situated side by side so that one attendant can move two wheelchair patients at the same time. The clamp member is a U-shaped member or an E-shaped member with end portions that project from the ends of a cross bar. These end portions extend into the tubular handles of the two wheelchairs. A clamp bar is fastened down by a hand wheel with a threaded post that passes through the clamp bar into a central portion of the clamp member. The cross bar can have a rubbery coating to facilitate gripping.

Abstract: A plug or grommet fits into the opening in the back plate of a thermostat and blocks or diverts intrusion air from entering the interior of the thermostat housing from the wall penetration for the thermostat wires. The thermostat wires are fed through the grommet, which is a soft rubbery material that closes over the wires and blocks the intrusion air. Alternatively, a wall plate can be used between the back plate of the thermostat and the wall where the thermostat is mounted.

Abstract: A flat goal target can be attached to an available outside (brick) wall, i.e., at a school building. The goal target is a flat fabric, woven or non-woven, i.e., a sturdy vinyl. The image of a goal and goalkeeper is printed on the fabric. Attaching strips, which can be made of stiff or male Velcro material, may be adhesively secured to the brick wall. The adhesive is strong enough to keep the target up, but giving enough not to harm the wall. The target can be set up for practice, and taken down between practice times. This permits the lacrosse player, hockey player, or other athlete to practice by hitting the ball against the wall, with an objective that simulates game conditions. In a variation, thin flat aluminum sheets are positioned behind the goal target in the goal areas not covered by the goalie figure. These act as a sounder to let the player know he or she is on target. As an alternative, the same system can be used to simulate a tennis net. There may be other attachment provided, e.g.

Abstract: A power lawn roller has a left roller drum and a right roller drum, both journalled side by side on the same axle and rotatable independently of one another. Left and right hydraulic drives provide motive power to the left and right roller drums, and each is capable of rotating the associated drum forward, reverse, or at intermediate speeds. Removable external weights are rack mounted on the frame of the unit. The operator can easily control the direction and speed, and the unit is capable of a zero-radius turn.