Abstract: A filter apparatus for deployment over a duct end in a forced air heating/ventilating/air conditioning system is described. The apparatus has been specifically designed for easy installation, and also for convenient cleaning and maintenance by occupants of the structure where the apparatus is employed. The apparatus preferably overhangs the duct end, thereby allowing improved filtration efficiency and reduced air pressure drop across the filter apparatus.

Abstract: A system for applying metalworking lubricants to working surfaces of tools, dies and/or workpieces prior to forming said workpiece in a metal forming operation, particularly forging, is described. The system comprises lubricant particles, each comprising a lubricant coated with a protective surface having poor electrical conductivity, and electrostatic deposition means for applying such particles to working surfaces of tools and/or dies, or to the workpiece.

Abstract: A board game for two players, including the apparatus and method of play, is described. The playing board is comprised of two substantially identical playing areas. Play comprises picking up playing pieces from one playing area and distributing them onto the other playing area, according to the rules of the game. The two players play in turn. The winner of the game is the player who forces the other player to move the last playing piece from one playing area to the other. The game is simple to learn, quick to play, and yet challenging for players of superior intelligence.

Abstract: An improved protective case for a portable, or laptop, computer is described. In particular, a protective case designed such that the computer may be kept therein during transport, storage, or use, is described. The protective case provides flexible hinge means to accommodate opening and closing the computer and case while the two remained attached to each other. The protective case contains means for protecting the computer from damage that may result from physical shock. The protective case provides for convenient access to all four sides of the portable computer, where necessary user interfaces, such as cable connectors, accessory ports and disk drives, are typically found, when the protective case is open, and protection therefor when the protective case is closed.

Abstract: A device for protecting objects such as houses, industrial and commercial buildings, storage vessels, boat moorings, and the like from rising water, as in floods, is described. The device comprises a lifting component, termed a liquilift, which act to raise the objects being protected above the rising water. Two types of liquilifts, sealed and nonsealed, are described. Although a single liquilift may be used effectively to protect objects from rising water, preferred embodiments of the invention employ several liquilifts. For example, one form of the invention provides for a generally rectangular support frame, to which the object being protected is attached, to be supported by four liquilifts, disposed near the corners of the support frame. Controls to sense the level of rising water, and to maintain the support frame in a horizontal position, are described. The device also includes a power supply to activate the components thereof.