Abstract: A multi-purpose skin composition which functions as a sunscreen, an anti-perspirant, an insect/pest repellant and/or an antiseptic is disclosed. In some illustrative embodiments, the multi-purpose skin composition includes a powdered repellent formulation having a substantially homogenous powdered mixture including corn starch powder, zinc oxide powder, peppermint powder, basil powder, rosemary powder, eucalyptus powder, copper mica powder and silica powder spheres. In other illustrative embodiments, the multi-purpose skin composition includes a powdered relief formulation having a substantially homogenous powdered mixture comprising corn starch powder, lavender powder, peppermint powder, eucalyptus powder and silica powder spheres.

Abstract: A stand for use in pouring concrete is provided. The stand includes a boom that is configured for holding a hose for use in dispensing concrete slurry therefrom. The stand also has a column that supports the boom. A base is present and extends from the column. The base also provides stability to the column to help prevent it from tipping over. In other variations, the height of the boom can be adjustable with respect to the base. Also in other variations the boom may be configured so as to pivot or rotate with respect to the base.

Abstract: A wind driven energy source is providing utilizing a turbine wheel comprising a peripheral rim attached to a central hub via a series of spokes. A plurality of airfoil blades are assembled to the wheel, each blade being secured to a pair of spokes and positioned proximate an interior edge of the rim and extend only partially down the length of the spoke. This provides a central opening allowing airflow through the innermost region of the wheel. The blades are pivotally assembled to the spokes and can include an incident angle adjusting mechanism as well as a breakaway feature.

Abstract: An improved trowel for facilitating the production of air pockets in a layer of mortar mix applied to a substrate for receiving marble-flooring pieces thereon. The trowel comprises a handle and an elongated blade joined together by a shank. The shape of the blade gradually narrows to a distal end that includes a plurality of tips separated by one or more V-shaped notch or notches. In various versions of the invention, the number of tips may vary and the tips may be flat or pointed. The V-shaped notch or notches may vary in depth.

Abstract: A mechanical tamper evident security seal for sealing a cargo container door includes a metallic pin having a head at an upper end and circumferential indents at a second end. An upper banner includes a portion non-removably encasing the head of the metallic pin. The banner includes first identifying indicia unique to a particular one of a plurality of like mechanical seals. A lock receptacle receives the second end of the metallic pin therein and includes a lock housing retaining at least two locks therein. A first of the locks engaging a first of the circumferential indents and a second of the locks simultaneously engages a second of the circumferential indents. Any attempt to withdraw the metallic pin results in visually identifiable destruction of the seal. A lower banner extending from the lock receptacle includes second unalterable identifying indicia identical to the first identifying indicia.

Abstract: An insertable and removable reader head protection device for a magnetic stripe reader is provided including a thin, non-ferromagnetic insertable panel that is disposed between the reader head and the magnetic stripe card, as the magnetic stripe card is inserted and swiped. The insertable and removable panel is adapted to protect the reader head from dirt, oil, and the like when inserted in the magnetic stripe reader and is adapted to be manually removable from this dirt-shielding position for manual cleaning. The reader head protection device provided includes embodiments both for use as an add-on accessory with existing types of magnetic stripe readers and for use during the initial manufacture of new magnetic stripe readers. When using the magnetic stripe reader head protection device the magnetic stripe reader owner will reduce downtime due to non-operational readers and reduce the cost of cleaning cards and service costs.

Abstract: An apparatus for embossing a substrate is provided. The apparatus includes a die with a metal backing layer that carries a polymer layer. The polymer layer has a female pattern formed through laser engraving. The metal backing layer of the die is capable of being magnetically attached to a magnetic cylinder. A counter die is also included and has a metal backing layer that carries a polymer layer. The polymer layer has a male pattern formed thereon through laser engraving. The metal backing layer of the counter die is capable of being magnetically attached to a magnetic cylinder. An alternative apparatus is provided that includes a male and female starting member to aid in aligning the patterns. Another apparatus is included that has male and female register tracts for keeping the die and counter die in register with one another. An associated method is also provided.

Abstract: A massage glove for use in administering a massage is provided. The massage glove includes a glove body that is configured for being worn on the hand of a user. At least one pad is carried by the glove body. The pad defines a bead pocket into which a plurality of beads are located. The pad defines a resilient pocket into which a resilient member is located. The beads are configured to be located intermediate the resilient member and the skin of the user proximate to the pad when the glove body is worn on the hand of the user.

Abstract: An animal waste handling device includes an elongated foldable. A hand hold thereon has a trigger that operates against a spring bias. A clamp including an upper and a lower clamp element is provided on the handle. A sliding housing is provided on the handle adjacent to the clamp elements and the clamp elements are pivotally attached to the sliding housing. The sliding housing is moved against a spring bias. When the trigger in the hand hold is operated, a cable attached to the trigger moves the sliding housing against the spring bias and opens or closes the clamp elements. A bag for the animal droppings is attached to each of the clamp elements such that the animal waste may be scraped from the ground and contained in the bag, which may then be disposed of in a sanitary manner.

Abstract: A measuring tape (150) having a pivoting catch (160) that rotates (172) about a measuring tape axis (159). A rotational catch coupling assembly is secured to the distal end of the measuring tape. The catch (160) is pivotally assembled to the rotational catch coupling assembly via a pivot assembly having a pivot shaft (180) and a lock assisting spring (188). The pivot shaft (180) is oriented parallel to the measuring tape axis (159). A registration interface such as pins (174) and apertures (176, 177, 178) maintain the catch (160) in position. The catch (160) rotates 360 degrees, and can include registration at any angle, but preferably at least 0, 90, 180, and 270 degrees.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for converting electromagnetic radiation directly into electricity. The method aligns a plurality of ferromagnetic nanocrystals to produce an aggregate magnetic field; utilizes an electrical coil in the aggregate magnetic field; and alternately directs and removes radiant energy from the ferromagnetic nanocrystals such that the aggregate magnetic field decays and regenerates to produce a current in the electrical coil. The apparatus includes either a distribution or a stackup of ferro-magnetic nanocrystals and an electrical coil, the combination of the nanocrystals and the electrical coil operating with energy derived from the source of radiant energy.

Abstract: Described is a six-cycle internal combustion engine. Four of the cycles are the standard “Otto” cycles, namely intake, compression, power and exhaust plus two additional cycles, a primary intake cycle and a transfer cycle. The two additional cycles act as a supercharger to provide compressed air to the intake port of the “Otto” cycle. The benefit is reduced fuel consumption due to 1 power stroke per every 3rd crankshaft revolution and the ability to vary the intake pressure and create a more favorable torque curve at low to mid RPM.

Abstract: A handle toss training apparatus can be utilized to aid in improving a person's balance, coordination, and skills respective to a maneuver commonly referred to as a handle pass. The handle toss training apparatus includes a balancing board with a base. The base provides a rotational, a rolling, and a pitch motion for the balancing board. A handle is fastened to a wall via a cable. Tension for the handle is created by the specific material used for fabrication of the cable or by a variable weight system.