Abstract: An unloading apparatus capable of automatically unloading agricultural materials from a storage bag is disclosed. The unloading apparatus includes a drive mechanism for advancing the apparatus along the direction of an elongate storage bag, a collection mechanism for withdrawing material from the bag, and mechanisms for both sensing resistance imposed on the advancing apparatus by material in the bag and controlling further advancement of the apparatus in accordance with the level of that resistance.

Abstract: A pin tumbler lock releasing method involves cooperatively using keyway insertible and universally configured lift, key and shim devices to raise the pin stacks within a pin tumbler lock to just above the lock's shear line and then rotating the lock's plug element within its outer easing in order to disengage its locking mechanism.

Abstract: A pin tumbler lock releasing system includes keyway insertible and universally configured lift, key and shim devices that are cooperatively used to raise the pin stacks within a pin tumbler lock to just above the pin tumbler lock's shear line so that the lock's plug element may be rotated within its outer casing in order to disengage its locking mechanism.

Abstract: A pin tumbler lock releasing system includes keyway insertible and universally configured lift, key and shim devices that cooperatively work to raise the pin stacks within a pin tumbler lock to just above the pin tumbler lock's shear line so that its plug element may be rotated within its outer casing in order to disengage its locking mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus expanding around the perimeter of a box-shaped electronic device, the apparatus having a rectangular frame which is expandable lengthwise and widthwise and brackets for three-dimensional retention of an electronic device.

Abstract: A tufting machine capable of producing individual articles of athletic turf bearing precise graphic patterns is disclosed. The machine includes a support frame to which a backing material is statically held, a tufting frame that spans above and below the backing and is computer-controlled to travel along the support frame, a yarn-inserting needle carriage disposed above the backing along the tufting frame and a yarn-catching looper carriage disposed below the backing along the tufting frame. The carriages are computer-controlled to asynchronously shift relative to each other as may be necessary for their individual yarn-inserting components and yarn-catching components to cooperate.

Abstract: An unloading mechanism capable of automatically unloading agricultural materials from a storage bag is disclosed. The unloading mechanism includes a collection mechanism, discharge mechanism and a sensor arrangement configured to engage the storage bag. The sensor arrangement controls the unloading mechanism so that it automatically advances in a direction towards the storage bag as material is unloaded therefrom.

Abstract: A waist adjusting device for reducing the waist size of pants without the use of a belt is provided. The device comprises two engaging members and a connecting member which is pivotally attached to both engaging members. The engaging members each have clips disposed thereupon to permit them to be selectively fastened to spaced apart points along a pant waistline. With the engaging members fastened onto the pant, the device contracts the waist by the engaging members being pivoted about the connecting member such that the clips are drawn closer together.

Abstract: A truss connector for releasably coupling ends of truss structures in a quick and uniform fashion. The connector connects trusses, end-to-end, by binding to their tubular truss members in spigot fashion with an arbor, traveling nut and expandable collet assembly and by binding to the truss gusset plates in a directly fastened, mated plate assembly.

Abstract: A truck bed assembly within which the width dimension of the bed's cargo space can be selectively adjusted, the assembly including laterally movable sidewalls that are constructed so as to widen the bed floor surface as they are moved outward as well as a laterally expandable tailgate that lengthens and shortens as the sidewalls are laterally expanded and retracted.

Abstract: An apparatus for recording foot, hoof and paw impressions is disclosed. An impression member is atop a foundation member, both of which are concealed by a removable protective cover. The impression member records the shape of a foot, hoof or paw which steps upon the apparatus, while the cover resists water and camouflages the apparatus.

Abstract: An automated animal deterrent apparatus for mounting to a culvert, the apparatus includes attached weatherproof housings to protect its other components; a passive infrared sensor to detect pest animals within a detection zone; a siren to produce noise; a scent releasing assembly to emit an odor; a strobe light to produce light flashes; a solar panel and battery to power the apparatus; and a tube and clamp assembly for attaching the apparatus to the end of a culvert.

Abstract: A plant or garden marker assembly comprising a ground stake element, preferably constructed of rigid metal wire, and an identification plate element, preferably fabricated of sheet metal. A decal is applied to a flat portion of the plate for purposes of plant identification. Flanged front and rear sections of the plate feature holes through which the stake is threaded to enable the plate to be friction mounted thereupon. The plate may also be detached from the stake, allowing a single stake to be used with different plates displaying various plant identifications.

Abstract: A bed apparatus having a base and two inflatable members for elevating the torso and legs of a user is provided. The inflatable members are removably attachable to the base and can be selectively spaced apart, making the bed spatially adjustable. The extent to which a user's body is elevated is controlled by inflation of the inflatable members, making the bed vertically adjustable.