Abstract: A method of developing an optimum a lithium battery charging algorithm is conducted by providing a salt dissolved in solvent permitting lithium ions to leave a cathode in large format battery cells. Charge and discharge are then measured under different C-rate conditions. Using the cathode material phase transformations to ascertain a differential curve, peaks in the differential curve are observed with all data plotted against dV/dt and V, where V represents voltage and t represents time. Areas in voltage ranges are then observed where the rate of increase is higher than in other areas. By varying the charging current, an optimum charging voltage can be ascertained and maintained.

Abstract: This invention relates to a ball-ender apparatus for securing to a pre-selected length wire by passing through the apparatus and being secured by a precision screw from which the wire receives medial pressure locking the wire in place. Without an expensive winding machine or winding of wire or even modifications made to musical instruments, wire can be tensioned, after the precision screw is screwed onto the wire within the clamping ball end housing to securely hold the wire in place.

Abstract: A pool and spa plumbing adapter to relocate existing directional water flow plumbing fittings to new positions to accommodate new surfacing overlaid on the existing pool or spa surface. The adapter provides for a threaded engagement with existing plumbing and has a shoulder portion providing a visual cue for proper rotational translation of the adapter into the existing plumbing fitting to accommodate the new surface layer. A sealing ring can be provided extending above the shoulder portion to prevent fluid passage between the new surface and the adapter and to prevent rotation of the adapter.

Abstract: A cutting apparatus has a unidirectionally-locking blade cover that automatically snaps back over the exposed blade after each cut, and a dependent, index finger operated unlocking trigger.

Abstract: An improved pet bed for a pet such as a small dog or a cat includes a seat cushion for the pet to rest on, much like the owner's lap, and a connected back cushion much like the owner's torso. A pair of arm cushions extend from the back cushion, the arms moveable from a spread-apart open position, and a closed portion where the ends may be locked together. While in the open position the arms may receive a shirt of the pet owner, much like a mannequin. Then the arms may be moved to the closed position, and the small pet inside enjoys the feeling of being held by the pet bed and the scent of the owner's clothing. Advantageously, the shirt may be laundered, worn by the owner and replaced onto the pet bed.

Abstract: The problem of damage sustained to a traction device and the extendable traction elements thereof due to tire-roadway interaction forces exerted on the traction elements while extended over the tire tread area is solved by resiliently coupling a traction assembly within a tire rim to permit movement and repositioning of the traction assembly relative to the rim and biasing back to the original position. Preferably the traction assembly is mounted to a traction hub through a resilient coupling, and with the traction hub permitted to rotate relative to the rim. Also preferably, the invention provides for full retraction of the curved traction elements. This inventive device delivers increased traction in slippery conditions while protecting the traction device and surrounding mechanics from damage due to the impact of various roadway forces, and the device is effectively stowed within the rim when not in use.

Abstract: A voice-activated mobile phone in the form of jewelry includes a necklace element for suspending the phone around the neck of a user, a phone element being a part of the necklace and a pendant hanging from the necklace. The phone element is voice activated so that a user can send and receive calls without having to physically manipulate the phone. The phone element may be disguised as a part of the necklace by virtue of a fancifully designed cover that fits over the phone portion of the device.

Abstract: An improved headphone support assembly comprises a hook-shaped member for positioning over the ear of a user. The assembly comprises a clip or series of clips for releasably retaining a headphone wire, and disposes the wire at one terminal end of the hook-shaped member adjacent the auditory canal of a user. An ‘earbud’ type headphone wire is affixed to the member, with a predetermined amount of slack between the member and the headphone speaker to allow the speaker to move independently of the member. An adjustable arm attached to the lower portion of the hook-shaped member, and connected by a hinge, extends under the ear lobe of a user, and articulates to accommodate a variety of ear sizes.

Abstract: A device for breast self-examination worn over the fingers of a user's hand, comprising an operative portion with an outside shell, an inside liner, and a lubricant contained therebetween, and a barrier adhering the outside shell to the inside liner and acting to seal the lubricant within. The operative portion is sized to substantially restrict access to just the pads of the distal and middle regions of the four fingers, preventing the non-recommended use of the thumb and palm during the inspection process, due to their limited sensitivity. The operative portion is designed to allow the recommended substantial lateral displacement of the inside layer relative to the outside shell that remains in substantially immobile contact with an area of skin. The novel design substantially prevents incorrect use thereby increasing the detection effectiveness.

Abstract: A decorative cover for embellishing footwear is disclosed, having a cover incorporated with a sock. The cover is worn over the footwear for covering and enhancing it with at least one embellishment. The sock encloses a user's foot and is incorporated with the cover at the top of the sock to prevent the cover slipping down. To hold the cover down over the footwear, a disconnecting strap extends under the arch of the footwear. To hold the cover securely against the footwear, a zippered seam runs along the rear of the cover parallel to a user's leg.

Abstract: An improved security system for monitoring passengers aboard vehicles in real time uses existing off-the-shelf computer technology and an associated GPS system and wireless Internet to enable peripheral devices capable of obtaining a variety of data aboard a vehicle and transmitting that data to a remote location, including a stationary location where the data can be monitored. The method connects power derived from the vehicle, with a wireless Internet and GPS enabled laptop to enable tracking of the vehicle. Additionally, peripheral devices including cameras, audio/visual displays and identification means are associated with the mobile laptop, enabling the system to track individual passengers aboard the vehicle.