Abstract: A method has been designed for storing drilling knowledge and experience in a highly structured fashion that permits the user to identify drilling cases that meet user-specified criteria and to retrieve the knowledge and experience relating to those cases. In this way the user is able to retrieve the knowledge and experience learned in cases that are analogous to one or more current cases they are studying.

Abstract: A method of selling articles of manufacture which utilizes an electronic communication system to identify a plurality of articles of manufacture, from a plurality of manufacturing entities, which are available for purchase by said plurality of potential purchasers. The steps of the method include: Identifying pricing milestones in each of (1) a manufacturing phase and (2) a distribution phase, which correspond to an increase in commercial risk. Determining a separate price for each of said pricing milestones to establish a range of prices for said selected ones of said plurality of articles of manufacture, taking into account a change in said commercial risk as said pricing milestones are experienced. Making conditional offers for sale to potential purchasers at each of the pricing milestones, with the conditional offers specifying at least a minimum number of articles which must be ordered in aggregate before the conditional offer becomes binding upon a manufacturing entity.

Abstract: A dual mode trailer hitch that operates in both a “vehicle-tow” mode and a “manual tow” mode. In the vehicle-tow mode of operation, the trailer hitch is configured such that a trailer can be pivotally coupled to and towed by a towing vehicle, such as a tractor. In the manual-tow mode of operation, the trailer hitch is configured to not articulate, so that the trailer can be towed manually by a person. The trailer hitch includes bar pivot attachment member, a connecting link, a handle attachment fitting, at least one side plate, a tow bracket, and a vehicle coupling pin 23. In the preferred embodiment, the side plates are coupled on both sides of the tow bracket. The combined side plates and tow bracket are pivotally coupled to both the bar pivot attachment member and one end of the connecting link by a first pivot pin. The handle attachment fitting is pivotally coupled to the other end of connecting link by a second pivot pin.

Abstract: An outdoor fireplace having a cover portion, a screened middle portion, a fire pit, and a base is disclosed. The screened middle portion has collapsible and movable curtain assembly that hangs from and slides along an interior rod, so that firewood can be placed into the fire pit without having to remove the cover portion. A set of wheels are coupled to the base portion to make the fireplace easily portable.

Abstract: A mailbox having a direct illumination lighting system in which light is directed downward so as to shine on an address plate or other sign is disclosed. The lighting system is powered by rechargeable batteries that are recharged by a solar energy system. The solar energy system collects solar energy and converts it into electrical energy.

Abstract: A hand-held, electronic, bi-directional, wireless electronic communication device having a physical configuration which includes a relatively large, constantly visible display and an alphanumeric keyboard that can be concealed until needed.

Abstract: A rail alignment system for locating a first end piece and a second end piece of a first rail section and a second rail section. The rail alignment system comprises (a) a first rail alignment tool for engaging and applying force to said first rail section; and (b) a second rail alignment tool for engaging and applying force to said second rail section. The first rail alignment tool includes: (1) a planar plate for extending transversely beneath said first rail section; (2) a pair of block members, each secured to said planar plate and each defining a threaded cavity which is substantially orthogonal to said first rail section and which are aligned with one another; (3) a pair of externally threaded bolts, each adapted for engaging one of said threaded cavities of said pair of block members; and (4) a pair of contoured rail engagement end pieces, each secured to an inner terminating portion of said pair of externally threaded bolts for engaging said first rail section.