Abstract: A line head (10) for a rotary line trimmer uses a bail (16) to clasp a single length of cutting line (18). The head has a first and second side (12, 14). The first side (12) of the head (10) has a plurality of radial ridges extending radially from a central shaft engagement hub (20). The second side has several raised portions (44, 46, 48, 50) which define a first and second channel (17, 19). The bail (16) rotates between an open position to a closed position in the first channel. The second channel (19) is dimensioned to engage the cutting line. The bail (16) has a clasp means (16c) which removably engages a lip portion (42) when the bail is in the closed position. The bail (16) also has a central portion (16b) which overlays the second channel (19) when the bail is in the closed position.

Abstract: A chemical composition is provided for protecting, preserving, restoring and enhancing the appearance of rubber and polymer surfaces of de-icing boots on aircraft, particularly pneumatic de-icers. The chemical composition comprises the main elements of styrene acrylic emulsion polymer, polyethylene emulsion and polyolefin polymer emulsion, all mixed in distilled water. The preferred composition also includes 1,4 butanediol, polymethylsiloxane emulsion, potassium fluoroalkyl carboxylate, 12 benzisohiazolin 1-3, and ethylene glycol. A method of applying the composition to de-icer surfaces.

Abstract: A low noise block feedhorn system includes a waveguide antenna for receiving RF signals. The transition element is a waveguide to coaxial line probe assembly which includes a high conductivity probe and a low loss dielectric sleeve. The dielectric sleeve has a ring spacer at its top and probe spacer at the bottom to provide an air gap between the dielectric sleeve and the probe. The dielectric sleeve concentrates the RF field next to the probe and the air gap reduces the field intensity of the probe surface. Thus, a proper impedance match between the waveguide and the probe with less conducting losses is provided. A low noise block downconverter has its preamplifier connected by its input impedance matching network to the coaxial cable. By replacing the coaxial cable with a coaxial transformer as a second transition element the network can be eliminated and the preamplifier connected directly to the coaxial transformer for a further improvement in loss.

Abstract: A guiding catheter used for coronary angioplasty procedures includes an inflatable bag on the inner wall of the guiding catheter. The guiding catheter directs a guide wire for a balloon catheter to a coronary artery for opening a blockage in the artery. When the inflatable bag is inflated it pinches the guide wire against the inner wall of the guiding catheter. This procedure enables the guide wire to be secured in or near a coronary artery while the balloon catheter is exchanged. A hypotube runs along the inner wall of the guiding catheter from an inflation syringe near the catheter hub to the inflatable bag. Preferably saline solution is injected into the inflatable bag.

Abstract: A siding installation hanger has a elastic cord storing mid-section from which opposite extending legs having backturned end portions extend. The backturned end portions have gripping edges which in response to tension in the elastic cord, easily and removably grip the protruding longitudinal lip on siding strips which interlock. The upper end section of the hanger strap releasably retains the rope and may include hook-like slotted portions for that purpose. The hanger strap is retained in a upright vertical position in support of horizontal siding strips. Loose wraps are wound around the elastic cord storage section of the hanger member to ensure that the elastic cord is always the proper length to tensively hold successive siding strips at any vertical location along the wall surface to be sided. The device is quickly and easily adjusted and quickly and easily removed. A method employing the device for installing siding is included.

Abstract: An apparatus for removing and replacing small batteries in electronic devices such as hearing aids or handling small magnetic parts has a housing in which a reciprocating shaft is placed having a magnet at one end. When the reciprocating shaft is placed in its extended pickup position, the magnet is brought close to the end of the housing, and into contact with the battery or other magnetic object. Once in contact with the object, the apparatus may be used for manipulation. Once the object is placed where it is to be left, the reciprocating shaft may be moved to a retracted position weakening the magnetic field holding the battery to the end of the apparatus. The reciprocating shaft is moved and locked into its extended and retracted positions with a rotating ratchet mechanism operated with a thumb of the hand that holds the apparatus. A shim in separable parts of the housing makes adjustment of the terminal end position of the magnet possible.

Abstract: A wireless tire pressure monitoring system warns a driver of a vehicle of low pressure in one or more of its tires so that the driver may take corrective action before a tire blowout occurs. A pressure transducer, transmitter and antenna are integrally housed and mounted to the tire stem of a tire. When the pressure transducer senses a tire pressure below a preselected pressure, the transmitter broadcasts a radio frequency (RF) signal that, upon detection by a receiver mounted on the vehicle, warns the driver of abnormally low pressure. In a preferred embodiment, the transmitter is a SAW device that is periodically interrogated by an RF signal from a transmitter on the vehicle.