Abstract: An apparatus used to teach and practice soccer related skills. The soccer training apparatus includes an inclined target board that has at least one aperture that is large enough to receive a soccer ball. An inclined plane is positioned in front of the inclined target board. The inclined plane can either be in the same plane as the target board or can terminate above the bottom of the target board to form a ramp. The target board is supported in place by a frame structure. Different netted targets are formed within the frame structure. The various netted targets enable players to practice different types of kicking skills. The frame structure also supports a tethered ball and practice goals that are also used in various soccer practice drills.

Abstract: A projectile device for use in a tossing game. The projectile has a body with a concave bottom surface and a convex top surface. The body can have any shape, but is preferably triangular, wherein three side edges define the convex top surface and the concave bottom surface. Regardless of the shape of the projectile's body, the body of the projectile has a geometrical center. However, the projectile is fabricated so that the body of the projectile has a center of gravity that does not correspond to the geometrical center of the body. As a result, if the projectile is tossed with a spinning motion, the projectile will not evenly rotate about its geometrical center. The combination of the shape of the projectile, the contours of the projectile and the off-center center of gravity for the projectile make the flight characteristics of the projectile difficult to anticipate. The unpredictability in flight characteristics is a desired novel feature in the tossing game for which the projectile is used.

Abstract: A low cost scoop device for scooping animal waste or other loose material. The scoop contains a disposable bag having an open end. The bag is held open by a collapsible paperboard frame of a unique configuration. The paperboard frame has a bottom element, a first side element, a second side element and a handle structure. When the paperboard frame is in a deployed configuration, the bottom edge, first side edge and second side edge form a triangular frame with a triangular central opening. The triangular frame holds open the open end of the bag. When the paperboard frame is in a folded configuration, the bottom edge, first side edge and the second side edge lay flat atop one another in a compact folded package.

Abstract: A looped circuit for generating a variable bias voltage. The looped circuit includes a variable current source having a current output that is dependent upon the variable bias voltage. The looped circuit also includes a capacitor that is periodically coupled to the current source for a predetermined period of time, wherein the current source charges the capacitor during each predetermined period of time. At least one subcircuit is provided for varying the variable bias voltage, wherein the variable bias voltage automatically causes the current source to charge the capacitor to a predetermined reference voltage during each predetermined period of time. Accordingly, the generated bias voltage will vary with temperature and other external variables. However, the ratio of the current produced by the current source divided by the capacitance of the capacitor is equal to the ratio of the predetermined reference voltage divided by the referenced predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A front end loader assembly that is attachable to a truck not otherwise intended to use a front end loader. The front end loader assembly includes a stationary mount that attaches to the chassis of the vehicle. A frame structure is provided having a pair of generally vertical frame elements and at least one generally horizontal frame element. The frame structure is pivotably coupled to the stationary mount at a first point of attachment. A single first hydraulic cylinder extending between the stationary mount and the frame structure, wherein the first hydraulic cylinder is capable of moving the frame structure relative the stationary mount about the first point of attachment. An arm structure is coupled to the frame structure by a hinged connection. A single second hydraulic cylinder extends between the frame structure and the arm structure, wherein the second hydraulic cylinder is capable of moving the arm structure relative the frame assembly. A bucket is coupled to the arm structure.

Abstract: A gas flow restriction device for restricting the flow rate of heated gas in a conduit. The flow restriction device is essentially a two piece assembly that includes a valve housing and a valve gate structure that sits within the housing. The valve housing has a first end, a second end and an open central passage extending from the first end to the second end. The open central passage includes a internally tapered section proximate its first end and an internally threaded section proximate its second end. The valve gate structure has a first end a second end, a externally tapered section proximate its first end and an externally threaded section proximate its second end. The valve gate structure passes into the open central passage of the valve housing so that the externally tapered section of the valve gate structure is disposed a predetermined distance within the internally tapered section of the valve housing.

Abstract: A sock and its associated method of manufacture, wherein the sock reduces chafing experienced by the foot. The sock includes an inner sock layer having an interior surface and an exterior surface. The inner sock layer is fabricated from at least one first thread made from a conventional garment material and a second thread made from a fluoropolymer material, wherein the conventional garment material is predominant on the interior surface of the inner sock layer and the fluoropolymer material is predominant on the exterior surface of the inner sock layer. The sock also includes an outer sock layer that surrounds the inner sock layer. The outer sock layer also has an interior surface and an exterior surface.

Abstract: An illumination device for vessels that have access ports terminated with pipe flanges. The illumination device includes a retention collar that is adapted to receive a flashlight at its first end. The opposite second end of the retention collar terminates with a flange. A conduit extends through the retention collar from the first end to the second end. A mounting element is provided for attaching the retention collar and the flashlight to the access port of the vessel. The mounting element includes an annular base plate. A coupling mechanism is attached to the annular base plate. The coupling mechanism selectively receives the flange of the retention collar in an orientation wherein the center of the retention collar aligns with center of the mounting bracket. The annular base plate of the mounting bracket clamps to the pipe flange of the vessel over an inspection window. This provides an unobstructed passage through which light from the flashlight can enter the access port of the vessel.

Abstract: A device and method for interconnecting a computer or similar central processing unit with the physical structure of an amusement device so that the computer can participate during play. The device can be embodied within the amusement device or can be used in conjunction with an inlay that simulates a board game. In either scenario, a plurality of identification units are positioned in the amusement device at points where game pieces are used. The identification units sense the presence of a game piece as the game is played and the game pieces are moved. If an identification unit detects the presence of a game piece, the identification unit produces an output signal that is read by the computer. The output signal identifies both the location of the game piece and the type of game piece. As a result, the computer is informed as to the location and identity of all the game pieces used in the game. The computer can use this information to monitor the play of the game or participate in the play of the game.

Abstract: A handle extension device that is used to alter the position where a person pushes a wheeled item, such as a baby stroller or a lawn mower. This enables the ergonomics of the wheeled item to be optimized for individuals of differing stature. The handle extension device has at least two clamping mechanisms. Each clamping mechanism is adapted to engage one of the existing handle shafts of the wheeled item. Two arm elements extend from the clamping mechanisms. Each arm element extends from a clamping mechanism at a predetermined angle that can be selectively varied. A cross-element interconnects the two arm elements. The length of the cross-element can also be selectively varied so as to fit different sized wheeled items. The cross-element serves as the new push handle. By varying the angle and position of the cross-element and person can position the cross-element to an ergonomically correct orientation.

Abstract: A suction assembly for use in a surgical procedure. The assembly includes a plurality of suction head attachments. Each of the suction head attachments has a base segment, a tip segment and a suction conduit that extends through the base segment and the tip segment. The base segment of each of the suction head attachments has a common configuration. However, the tip segment of each of the suction head attachments has a unique configuration. The assembly also includes a single handle element. A coupling mechanism is disposed at a first end of the handle element. The coupling mechanism is adapted to selectively engage the base segment of any of the plurality of suction head attachments. The handle element also connects to a suction source. As the handle element connects to one of the suction head attachments, the handle element interconnects the suction head attachment to the suction source.

Abstract: A support device for supporting a person's arm when the arm is extended. The device can also be used to support an optical instrument such as a camera. The support device has a base structure adapted to be worn about a person's waist, proximate the hip. A support shaft extends from the base structure. The support shaft has a predetermined extended length between a first end and a second end. The support shaft contains a piston between its two ends. The presence of the piston enables said support shaft to be contracted to a contracted length that is less than its normal length. This enables a person to move his/her arm up and down while still being supported. The support shaft connects to the base structure with a ball and socket joint. Consequently, the support shaft is also free to move back and forth with that person's arm.

Abstract: An orthodontic device and associated method for altering the position of a tooth in the mouth. The orthodontic device includes a bracket that attaches to the tooth or teeth that are to be moved. A bite plate is produced that is contoured to engage teeth on both the maxillary arch and the mandibular arch, other than the tooth to be moved. The bite plate can be a single piece unit or a two piece unit that can be joined within the mouth. A spring element is disposed between the bite plate and the bracket. The spring element applies a spring bias between the bracket and the bite plate. Since the spring bias acts on the tooth to be moved and the bite plate, the spring bias acts to correct the position of the tooth to be moved without any significant effect on the other teeth in the mouth.

Abstract: An end cap device for the flanged termination at the end of a container or a pipe. The end cap device includes a circular base having a peripheral edge, a bottom surface and a top surface. The top surface of the end cap base is beveled toward the bottom surface of the base in the regions proximate the peripheral edge. A shaft extends from the top surface of the base, wherein the shaft is oriented at a perpendicular relative the plane of the bottom surface of the base. A handle is connected to the shaft at a point between the two ends of the handle. A tether extends from the handle. The tether is formed into the configuration of a noose, wherein the noose can pass over the flanged termination the end cap device is designed to cover. The handle helps a person remove the end cap in a controlled manner while the tether prevents the end cap from falling. Both the entire end cap structure and the tether are made of stainless steel or another material that can be sterilized in an autoclave without corrosion.

Abstract: A device for covering a vehicle so as to protect the vehicle from the elements. The device includes a water impermeable cover having a top surface and a bottom surface that are defined between a front edge, a back edge and two side edges. A plurality of formers are coupled to the bottom surface of the cover. The formers support the cover above the surface of the vehicle, thereby preventing direct contact between the material of the cover and the vehicle itself. Protrusions extend from the bottom of the formers. The protrusions contact the vehicle and support the formers a predetermined height above the vehicle when the inflatable formers are laid across the vehicle. The protrusions are spaced apart along the length of each of the formers. The protrusions define gaps between the formers and the vehicle through which air can flow. Air is therefore free to flow under the protective cover, thereby keeping the vehicle cool and preventing moisture from accumulating against the finish of the vehicle.

Abstract: A receptacle assembly where garbage can be sorted for purposes of recycling. The receptacle assembly includes a main housing that is symmetrically disposed around a central vertical axis. A plurality of internal walls are disposed within the main housing that radially extend from the central axis. The internal walls create compartments within the housing. Doors are disposed within the housing. Each door provides access to one of the compartments within the housing. A plurality of containers are provided, wherein each of the containers is sized to fit within one of the compartments through the door openings. Access openings are disposed either in the lid of the receptacle assembly or in the side surfaces of the main housing. In this manner, different materials can be disposed of in the different compartments of the assembly.

Abstract: A system and method for filling a dental occlusion with a metal free prosthesis. The method begins by surgically implanting at least one dental implant fixture within the mouth in the area of the occlusion. Once the implant fixture is healed, an abutment is added to each dental implant fixture. An impression of the area of the occlusion is taken directly over any abutment. The impression is used to create a dental model of the area of the occlusion. A metal free prosthesis is fabricated from the model. The metal free prosthesis is then anchored to the abutments.

Abstract: A device and method for adding the perception of flavoring to a product that is consumed from a receptacle. The device is a cover for a receptacle, wherein a person can drink from a receptacle through the structure of the cover. The receptacle cover is scented with a desired fragrance. Furthermore, the receptacle cover is shaped so that a portion of the cover enters the mouth when a person is drinking through the receptacle cover. A person who consumes a product directly from the receptacle will bring the receptacle cover to his/her mouth. As the receptacle cover is taken within the mouth, the receptacle cover scents the air contained within the mouth. Simultaneously, the portion of the receptacle cover outside of the mouth scents the air surrounding the outside of the nose. By scenting the air inside the mouth and outside the nose, the nose is saturated by the desired fragrance and a more effective olfactory sense deception is obtained.

Abstract: A clamp device for joining a flanged connection. The clamp device has a plurality of arcuate segments, wherein each of the arcuate segments has two ends. A pivot couples at least one end of each arcuate segment to another of the arcuate segments to produce a chain of arcuate segments that extend from a first end to a second end. The chain of arcuate segments is configurable into an annular structure when the first end is brought into abutment with the second end. A torsion spring is disposed around each pivot. Each torsion spring acts to bias the arcuate segments into the configuration that produces the annular structure. A rocking bolt is coupled to the second end of the chain of arcuate segments. The rocking bolt is joined to the second end by a second pivot and is positionable throughout a predetermined range. A biasing element is provided for biasing the rocking bolt into one position within the predetermined range.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus that enables a person to perform a variety of different exercises. The exercise apparatus has a frame structure that includes a plurality of vertical columns. A bench assembly is supported by at least one of the vertical columns at a variable angle of inclination. A weight holder also is coupled to at least one of the vertical columns, wherein the weight holder is free to move in a vertical direction along the length of the column. In addition to the bench assembly, at least one exercise mechanism is coupled to the frame structure. Each exercise mechanism includes an element that is pivotably coupled to the frame structure. A pulley is connected to each element at a point a predetermined distance from the pivot point. Additional pulleys are mounted on the frame structure, thereby forming an overall pulley arrangement. A cable extends through the pulley arrangement including the pulleys on the exercise mechanisms.