Abstract: A method of applying a sign comprising of raised characters to a surface using a template or pattern which provides a precise orientation and alignment of the characters. The method renders it unnecessary to separately align each character.

Abstract: A radar detectable balloon includes an inflatable envelope with several planar radar-reflecting surfaces. Prior to inflation, the balloon may be collapsed into a compact flat configuration. When inflated, the radar reflective planar faces arranged in such a way that the largest angle formed by every line of sight and a normal to at least one planar face is less than 45°.

Abstract: A surface conditioning pad for rotation about an axis is disclosed, wherein the pad includes a resilient foam body having a rear surface and a working surface generally normal to the axis of rotation and a peripheral surface interconnecting the rear surface and the working surface. The peripheral surface includes a plurality of facets which may define an apex for selectively engaging portions of the work piece.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for permitting multi-axis rotation of the body. The apparatus includes a seat attached to a frame and a pair of arm rests connected to the frame for motion relative to the seat and frame, and more particularly, for rotational movement relative to the seat about a first and a second axis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for selectively applying, a material to a target moving along a path is disclosed. The apparatus includes at least one detector for identifying an upstream position of the target; a dispenser spaced downstream from the detector by an offset distance, the dispenser configured for selectively releasing material to contact the target; a velocity sensor for creating a velocity signal proportional to a velocity of the target; and a controller for selectively varying the offset distance in response to the velocity signal.

Abstract: A seal for providing a sealed interface between confronting surfaces having a reduced clearance in at least one relative position of the confronting surfaces. The seal is particularly configured for components movable between a first and a second position wherein the components provide relatively low clearances, typically about 6 mm, or less, in the first position.

Abstract: The present invention includes a reticle image generator and a display screen selected to form a reflected reticle image from the optical element to be aligned, wherein the reflected reticle image is viewed on the display screen. The optical element is then aligned in response to the reflected reticle image upon the display screen.

Abstract: A flexural pivot assembly which reduces the number of component parts to five and reduces the number of operations in the manufacturing process is disclosed. The component parts include two sleeves, one inner flexure, one outer flexure, and one slotted tubular core that may be coated with a suitable bonding material. The core has a slotted end and an unslotted end and includes two pairs of diametrically opposed flexure slots each having substantially the same length as a side of a flexure so that the interlocked flexures can slide into the slotted end of the tubular core until they abut an end of the flexure slots and, at the same time, be positioned flush with the slotted end. The core further includes a pair of diametrically opposed travel slots.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an educational planner for providing a cooperative system of planning books and folders that promote socially beneficial aims while providing assistance and organization of course materials.

Abstract: An indoor elevated cat feeder that has a platform to support a cat, food, and water. It also has walls to protect the cat from annoyance by a dog, but has no roof or has a roof that may be opened so that a person may pet the cat while the cat is on the platform.

Abstract: An air permeable grate or screen for selectively precluding passage of items, such as birds and rodents, through a duct is disclosed. The screen has a pivot mount on one end for pivotally mounting the screen to the exit of a hood opening to allow easy access into the hood for cleaning the hood and screen as desired. A retaining device for retaining the screen in a closed position is provided on the hood. The screen may be provided with aerodynamically designed bars for preventing lint build up. The invention further includes a method for using the vent screen within the hood.

Abstract: A device enabling the timely removal and subsequent recycling of residues remaining in a pouring chute through which the load of a cement from a mixing drum of a mobile delivery vehicle was discharged. A strainer on a movable arm attached to the vehicle is placed under the chute to receive an effluent which results from spraying the inside of the nozzle with water. Solid particulates are retained by the strainer and a slurry which emerges from the strainer is pumped into the mixing drum, allowing the separated materials to be recycled when the vehicle returns to its base.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a trapping protector capable of detecting the presence of an object in a sensing region when connected with a device for creating input signals and evaluating output signals. Said trapping protector comprises a body portion, at least one ground electrode, at least one sensor electrode arranged spaced apart from said ground electrode and embedded in said body portion, and a zone of reduced rigidity between said at least one ground electrode and said at least one sensor electrode. Said zone reduces the force required for triggering said trapping protector.

Abstract: Lithography processes that use multiple layers require registration between layers. The accuracy requirement depends on the application of the lithograph. For microlithography, the registration requirement could be less than one micron. Systems that use lenses for imaging such as optical steppers can image conventional alignment marks through those lenses. A unique microlithography system that employs holograms has properties that are not compatible with known alignment techniques. The present invention is a new system for alignment of holographic microlithography elements.

Abstract: A compact switching apparatus for a model railroad track, the apparatus having the capability of smoothly driving a track switch between terminal positions while providing for intended manual operation while precluding the reverse operation of the apparatus by the track switch. Circuitry includes light emitting diodes to indicate the position of the switch, and can also provide a residual holding current which helps maintain the switch in its intended position.

Abstract: A diverter for selectively providing fluid communication between ports to a common chamber is disclosed. The diverter includes a resilient deformable common chamber having a plurality of ports. Upon deforming the common chamber along a given line, fluid communication between selected ports is precluded, which flow preclusion is used to effectively reverse a flow direction in a circuit connected to the diverter.

Abstract: A sewage ejector system includes a basin and top cover. The basin body includes a generally cylindrical wall, a closed bottom, and an open top. Several features assist in installation, handling and/or performance of the basin. An annular collar projecting from the outer surface of the wall is useful for inhibiting flotation of the basin. Diametrically opposed recesses formed in the outer wall surface facilitate handling of the basin during transport and installation. A raised annular edge at the top of the basin body protects outer edges of the top cover.