Abstract: A lollypop having an internally illuminated stem to form a pleasing visual effect. A chemiluminescent cylinder is used as the stem. One end of the stem is exposed for gripping by the user. The other is embedded in the center of the lollypop—which is made of hard translucent candy. The lollypop, including the chemiluminescent stem, is packaged as one disposable unit. When the user wishes to consume the candy, the user removes the unit from its packaging. The user then bends the exposed portion of the stem which fractures an internal chemical separation barrier within the stem. The user then shakes the unit, which mixes the two chemicals within the stem and produces the chemiluminescence. This results in the entire stem giving off a soft light, including the portion embedded within the translucent candy.
Abstract: A table having a light source diffused throughout its structure. The intensity and color of the light source can be varied using remote controlling devices. The color and intensity of the light emanating from the table may thus be synchronized with music or other entertainment media.
Abstract: A method for creating a full surface model of a log using optical scanners mounted on an existing infeed assembly. The method recognizes that a log is only stable for a portion of its travel along the infeed assembly, meaning that only portions of the log may be accurately scanned for both cross-sectional and positional data. The balance of the log can only be scanned for cross-sectional data. The method uses the regions of the log for which both cross-sectional and positional data are known to create a theoretical centerline for the entire log. The cross-sections for the regions without positional data are then placed along the theoretical centerline and all the cross sections are blended together to create a full surface model. The full surface model is then used to determine the optimum configuration of dimensioned lumber which may be sawn from the log.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 6, 2000
Date of Patent:
October 8, 2002
Inventors:
Ralph W. Bennett, Robert W. Mayer, Harold F. Qualls, Steven F. Bellenot
Abstract: A mechanical indexing device. The device comprises a mechanism for converting linear motion into many different combinations of linear and rotary motion, whereby an object can be moved along a desired linear path and indexed through a desired arc of rotation.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 27, 2001
Date of Patent:
October 8, 2002
Assignee:
Florida State University Research Foundation
Abstract: The present invention is a completely portable film dryer. The film is hung in strips within an encircling shroud. A heater assembly positioned at the top of the shroud blows warm air downward over the suspended film strips and out through exhaust vents near the shroud's bottom. A drip pan at the bottom of the shroud catches any free water drops. The entire unit, with the film placed inside, can be hung from a clothes hanger, shower curtain rod, or other suitable point. Power is provided to the heater assembly via a 110 volt AC plug or a DC adapter (for automotive cigarette lighters and the like). When not in use, the invention collapses to a significantly reduced size so that it can be transported in a suitcase or equipment container.
Abstract: An auxiliary shirt cuff which can be applied to virtually any type of shirt. It does not require any modification to the shirt. When applied, the cuff gives the appearance of a high-quality french cuff shirt. It can be applied to a shirt already having a french cuff, or to one having a conventional button cuff. Different fabrics and colors can be employed to make the cuff, thereby creating a pleasing and fashionable contrast with the fabric and color of the shirt to which the cuff is applied.
Abstract: A cushioned cover for protecting the exposed metal parts of a hitch assembly. In its preferred embodiment, the cover is comprised of tubular segments. The segments are transected longitudinally by a seam which allows the cover to be opened and easily placed over a hitch assembly. The invention further comprises cinching straps which allow the cover to be tightly fastened to the hitch assembly.
Abstract: An animal carcass incinerator designed to subject the entire external surface of the biomass material simultaneously to flame. The flame front burns inward toward the core of the material, greatly accelerating the burning process. Complete flame coverage of the biomass material is achieved by carefully shaping the internal surfaces of the incinerator. Burning gases are injected into a lower flame chamber. This lower flame chamber is bounded on its upper side by a grate, and on its remaining sides by the walls of the incinerator. Above the grate is a biomass chamber, where the animal carcasses or similar waste are deposited for incineration. The incinerator walls are lined with refractory insulating materials which incorporate a series of vertical flame channels. Likewise, the grate incorporates a series of vertical open channels. These channels are separated by raised ribs, which prevent the biomass materials from closing off the channels.
Abstract: A lockable blood and urine sample transporter. The transporter has a thermostatically controlled cooling unit which maintains the specimens at a fixed temperature. The transporter also has a securing lock which prevents unauthorized access to the specimens contained therein.
Abstract: A composition for conditioning the skin and for treating pseudofolliculitis barbae. Also disclosed is a method for making said composition. The composition is comprised of water, Aloe Vera juice, ammonium alum, glycerine, and ethanol. It can be made using relatively unsophisticated processing equipment. The process essentially comprises adding Aloe Vera juice to water, heating the water almost to its boiling point, adding glycerine and ammonium alum, allowing the mixture to cool, and adding a small amount of ethanol to avoid precipitation of the ammonium alum during prolonged storage.
Abstract: A dispensing apparatus comprising at least two parts, with the first part (d) being releasably held within the second (g) of the two parts and the first and second parts can be moved relative to one another to display at least two apertures leading to a chamber for retaining articles which are to be dispensed from the apparatus. The apparatus is preferably for dispensing question cards for playing a jigsaw game.
Abstract: A process and device for resurfacing damaged compact discs by melting a thin layer of the optical surface of said compact disc so that it reflows and fills any scratches or other imperfections. The result is a smooth and optically transparent surface equivalent to the condition of a new compact disc.
Abstract: A device for injecting liquid chemical solutions into the flow of a lawn sprinkler system. The device allows the user to easily attach and remove chemical jars without the risk of losing the prime on the pump.
Abstract: The proposed invention comprises a highly elastic sealing cover for covering food containers or dishes. It is capable of replacing existing rigid covers or plastic wrap/aluminum foil. The elastic nature and design of the proposed invention allow it to provide a more air-tight seal than plastic wraps or aluminum foil on a wide range of sizes and shapes of dishes or other food storage items. It can also conform to objects bulging out of containers (i.e., a head of lettuce).
Abstract: A device for maintaining a relatively fixed position of a person exercising in a pool. The device uses a flexible rod which deforms elastically as the swimmer exercises. In this fashion, the swimmer is given feedback as to how strenuously he or she is exercising. The device can be anchored to a conventional pool ladder. In addition, for those pools without a ladder, a separate anchor frame is disclosed. The anchor frame allows the device to be used in virtually any pool. It also allows the device to be used on a dock or on a boat.
Abstract: A device for mechanically establishing the lowest point a three-point tractor hitch can sink to. The device comprises a modified chain which is attached at both ends to the towed implement near where the lift arms are attached to the implement. The chain's middle portion is draped over and adjustably attached to the top link, with the result that as the lift arms are lowered the chain draws taut and prevents the lift arms from sinking any lower.
Abstract: A device for preventing water line freeze damage. The device incorporates air temperature sensing means to control a trickle flow in a water system, so that a trickle flow is initiated whenever the ambient air temperature drops below a predetermined point. The trickle flow inhibits freezing in the water system.
Abstract: A device for engaging and disengaging the driving mechanism of an automatic slide gate. The device uses a series of two levers to develop a substantial mechanical advantage in the operation of a dog clutch. An actuating lever is positioned so that it may be operated by the user's foot, eliminating the need for any auxilliary levers or tools.
Abstract: A detachable mirror designed to allow the driver of a vehicle to view the hitch ball when attempting to align the hitch ball with a trailer hitch. The invention has a stable triangular base and an adjustable mast for positioning a small mirror in the correct location.