Abstract: A roller coaster or amusement park ride. The roller coaster comprises a track system capable of any directional travel, including horizontal, vertical, angled, curved, curvilinear, and retrograde directions. A carriage in which passengers reside is rotatable about the track system, either by programming or by passenger activation, providing for additional freedom of movement. The roller coaster may have a track through a clear tube (e.g., surrounded by water) and multiple, independent rides supported by the same support structure, providing increased excitement for the passengers.

Abstract: A replacement surface covering an existing surface conforming surface irregularities of the existing surface to present a top surface with a relatively smooth contour, and a self-curing, waterproof adhesive layer which envelops and seals any cracks on the existing surface and promotes an intimate bond between the replacement surface and the existing surface. A design layer may be provided between the replacement surface and the existing surface. Double-sided tape may also be used to secure the replacement surface to the existing surface.

Abstract: An eyeglass heater includes a fan motor, heater coils, and feedback circuitry for controlling the fan motor and heater coils. A heat conductive housing encloses all components and provides opposed air outlets for directing the heated air upon the work piece (eyeglass frames).

Abstract: A fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) procedure and solutions is provided. The entire FISH procedure is fast (15 minutes or less), with the hybridization step occurring in 5 minutes or less. The entire FISH procedure with digoxygenin- or biotin-labeled probes takes approximately 30 minutes. A formamide-free solution (dextran sulfate and glycerol) is provided. An additional solution (10% dextran sulfate and 20% formamide) is also provided. Additional solutions are provided for mRNA in situ hybridization whereby the process takes less than 24 hours.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating homogenous electromagnetic fields within a volume. The homogeneity provided may be for magnetic and/or electric fields, and for field magnitude, radial gradient, or higher order radial derivative. The invention comprises conductive pathways oriented about a desired region of homogeneity. A corresponding apparatus and method is provided for substantially canceling the electromagnetic field outside of the apparatus, comprising a second set of conductive pathways placed outside the first set.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for controlling a rotary screw compressor capacity mechanism by manual pneumatic means. The apparatus compromises a specially placed rotary type cartridge valve enclosed in a valve body and housing. The assembly is attached via a flexible coupling to a rotating indicator rod that follows internal movement of the compressor's capacity piston mechanism. Manual movement of the assembly body opens valve ports that pneumatically position the compressor's internal capacity piston.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for sharpening machine tool cutter blades in situ is disclosed. A connector adjustably connects a powered sharpening device to the apparatus. Further adjustment of the apparatus relative to the blades is provided by a body member mounting adjustable arms. One of the arms engages the back of the blade being sharpened, thereby providing a reliable and true reference. A second embodiment sharpens rotary saw blades while a third embodiment sharpens router and shaper bits.

Abstract: An oil change device to facilitate the collection of the spent motor oil from an internal combustion engine's ferromagnetic crankcase and ferromagnetic oil filter, having a flexible tube connecting a sealing cover unit to an oil collection container. Permanent magnets, imbedded in the sealing cover unit provide a means to attach the sealing cover unit to the crankcase and oil filter. The distal end of a wrench shaft protrudes through an orifice in the base member and extends to the superior surface of the baffle member. A wrench socket that fits the crankcase drain plug head is connected to the distal end of the wrench shaft and a socket wrench, attached to the proximal end of the wrench shaft, is used to unscrew and remove the crankcase drain plug. An oil filter piercing tool is connected to the distal end of the wrench shaft and used to pierce the skin of the oil filter when a striking blow is delivered to the proximal end of the wrench shaft.

Abstract: A unitary, one-piece cooler cap for evaporative coolers comprising an integral shell and molded insulation. The shell provides seating and mounting means, as well as a mold cavity.

Abstract: A reusable package wrapping apparatus and method. The apparatus has a spring-loaded ribbon reel which dispenses an inverted ribbon in a first direction and recovers the ribbon, which has been re-inverted in a secondly direction. Spring tension or a locked hand crank secures the apparatus to the package.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for generating homogenous electromagnetic fields within a volume. The homogeneity provided may be for magnetic and/or electric fields, and for field magnitude, radial gradient, or higher order radial derivative. The invention comprises conductive pathways oriented mirror symmetrically about a desired region of homogeneity. A corresponding apparatus and method is provided for substantially canceling the electromagnetic field outside of the apparatus, comprising a second set of conductive pathways placed outside the first set.

Abstract: An exercise and support bar apparatus mounted in brackets on a wheelchair and method for using same. The bar can be adjusted to be more or less proximate the occupant by removing the upstanding portions of the bar from the brackets, turning the apparatus end-for-end, and re-inserting the upstanding portions in the bracket. Angular and height adjustments are also provided by the apparatus.

Abstract: A device and method wherein electrical components are mechanically suspended and electrically interconnected in an insulative elastomeric body, such as silicone, thereby eliminating the need for a circuit board or other circuit substrate. The device can change shape through compression, distension, flexure, and other external forces while maintaining its electrical performance and mechanical integrity. The device can be compressed and deformed to fit snugly within another device, such as the shell of an electrical connector or a plastic clamshell, simultaneously creating spring forces for reliable electrical contacts and an environmental seal. Accordingly, the device and method can be used for a wide variety of purposes such as electrical filtering for avionics, computer or automotive connectors, or a non-intrusive manner to package electronics for medical implants.

Abstract: An adaptive optics system which simultaneously measures the phase function and corrects the phase distortion of a wavefront using a liquid crystal device placed in an interferometer. The liquid crystal device inserts the conjugate phase function in the path and obtains a null in the interference pattern.