Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided to generate digital audio signals, such as stereo signals, from a multimedia program. The program can be distributed directly through an electronic network, or indirectly by recording the program on a medium such as a DVD or CD. The multimedia program is normally compressed using a standard DVD, MPEG or similar compression protocol. In accordance with the invention, the program is decoded to generate a multimedia output signal and an audio output signal. The multimedia signals can be played immediately or at will on a suitable multimedia device. The audio output signal is compressed, using for instance MP3 or ATRAC3, and then transmitted to an external device for storage as a digital file. The digital file can then be replayed at will.

Abstract: A metal article containing at least 10% interconnected porosity is produced by using a preform. To make the preform, an organic binder, a wetting agent and a granular material are mixed to obtain a mouldable paste that combines 10 vol. pct. or more of the granular material, this material dissolving easily in a liquid solvent. The paste is shaped into an aerated preform, thus creating an open pore space to be infiltrated by the metal or alloy. The wetting agent is evaporated and the preform is baked to a temperature sufficient to degrade the binder and create a network of interconnected open porosity in the preform. Then, the open pore space is filled with the liquid metal or alloy. All or part of the baked preform can be easily leached by a liquid solvent through the network of fine pores.

Abstract: The present application pertains to a system for adjusting the height of a covering, such as window or a wall covering formed of two or more covering segments that are axially aligned. The system includes a link that selectively transmits rotation between two adjacent coverage thereby allowing the two coverings to be controlled, e.g., raised or lowered, simultaneously. The link includes a clutch that allows one of the segments to be rotated with respect to the other so that the bottom end of one of the coverings can be adjusted and aligned horizontally independently of the other. Optionally, the clutch includes an internal member that provides a mechanical advantage while the one covering is adjusted.

Abstract: The present application pertains to a wheelchair having a frame; a seat attached to the frame and supporting a user; two lateral drive wheels mounted on essentially horizontal axes; and a propulsion system including a handle, an operating lever supporting said handle and having a friction element mounted onto the operating lever. The operating lever is movable axially with respect to one axis between a first and second position and radially. The friction element is arranged and constructed to frictionally engage said drive wheel in the first position and radial movement of the propulsion system propels the chair in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: A paint shield for preventing the misapplication of coating material comprises a shielding member having a leading edge and a base member, an extension handle for enabling a user to hold the leading edge of the paint shielding member against a surface, a pivot member connected to the base member for angularly positioning the shielding member, and a storage location positioned in said base member for storing the pivot member and the extension handle when the pivot member is selectively removed from the base member. The pivot member preferably includes two walls having at least one frictional pad disposed on an inner surface of each wall for frictionally engaging the base member and allowing a user to angularly pivot the shielding member without loosening the pivot member.