Abstract: The invention relates to a method of removing selected rows of corn out of a corn field which is particularly important for removing male rows of corn in a field of seed corn. The female seed corn rows are left undamaged, as a harvester passes over the top of the seed corn. Seed corn is grown with one or two rows of a male corn which pollinate three to five rows of the female seed corn. Once the pollination occurs, the male corn is unwanted and can cause contamination of the species of corn.

Abstract: The invention is a method of using computer vision to control systems consisting of a combination of holonomic and nonholonomic degrees of freedom such as a wheeled rover equipped with a robotic arm, a forklift, and earth-moving equipment such as a backhoe or a front-loader. Using vision sensors mounted on the mobile system and the manipulator, the system establishes a relationship between the internal joint configuration of the holonomic degrees of freedom of the manipulator and the appearance of features on the manipulator in the reference frames of the vision sensors. Then, the system, perhaps with the assistance of an operator, identifies the locations of the target object in the reference frames of the vision sensors. Using this target information, along with the relationship described above, the system determines a suitable trajectory for the nonholonomic degrees of freedom of the base to follow towards the target object.

Abstract: An x-ray trauma board having a rigid, flat, radiolucent, substantially transparent top support separated from a flat, rigid base by a plurality of spacers along either side of the board, leaving spaces along either side of the board through which an x-ray cassette may be inserted. The top support, base, and spacers define an open space in which the cassette may be positioned. The top support is hinged to the spacers along one side of the board for raising and lowering of the top support.

Abstract: The present invention provides an economical and efficient insulation material formed from recycled carpet waste. Carpet waste is readily available and is currently landfilled. The resulting insulation product of the invention is a high-efficiency, low-cost building insulation material.

Abstract: A portable toothbrush assembly is provided in which a toothbrush and mouth care solution dispenser are sealed within an outer bag. The dispenser preferably is constantly oriented above the bristles of the toothbrush until use. While remaining sealed within the outer bag, the dispenser can be squeezed in order to rupture the dispenser and distribute mouth care solution over the bristles of the toothbrush. The outer bag can then be opened, exposing the toothbrush for use and then, if desired, disposal.

Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and method for supporting the back of a wheelchair having a person siting in the wheelchair, when the wheelchair is tilted backwards. The apparatus consists of a base, stand, and crossbar for engaging the frame of the wheelchair. The frame of the wheelchair is supported near its handles by the crossbar of the invention, allowing some mobility in the wheelchair resting on the invention.

Abstract: A peeling machine is disclosed for peeling various fruits and vegetables. The peeling machine includes a lower holding assembly and an upper holding assembly rotatably coupled to a frame for securing and rotating a fruit or vegetable to be peeled. An air cylinder acts to push the lower assembly towards the upper holding assembly, in the process securing the fruit or vegetable between the upper and lower holding assemblies. A carriage assembly, which is configured to move vertically, is movably coupled to the frame, the carriage assembly containing a cutting assembly coupled to the end of a second air cylinder. The extension of the second air cylinder acts to push the cutting assembly towards the fruit as the carriage assembly moves upwards, as a result peeling the rind from the fruit or vegetable.

Abstract: A network hub which allows the transmission of data at varying data transfer rates. Data is divided into different transfer protocols and converted by an exchange unit to transform the data of different groups into appropriate speed networks.

Abstract: This invention involves the administration of the 19-nortestosterone precursor 19-nor-4-androstenediol as a means of increasing 19-nortestosterone levels in humans.