Abstract: A lawn irrigation sprinkler head that internally incorporates an alert and retrieval device which indicates the position of the head if damaged, and facilitates in-situ repair of the damaged head. The sprinkler head has a hollow body containing a pop-up riser connected to a nozzle. The alert and retrieval device is positioned between the base of the riser and the nozzle. Should the nozzle become damaged or dislodged, the alert device telescopically extends from the riser and signals the location of the damaged sprinkler head. The device facilitates the repair of the head by lifting the riser from within the sprinkler head so that a replacement nozzle can be attached. In an alternative embodiment the alert device has an integral shut-off valve which prevents the discharge of water in the event that a subsequent irrigation cycle occurs before the damaged head is repaired.

Abstract: A device for rewinding a load strap onto a winch of the type typically used to secure loads on flat bed truck trailers. The device includes a spindle (10) with engagement pin (20) that fits inside the winch drum (34) of the existing winch (32) (as commonly found on flat bed truck trailers to secure loads). The engagement pin (20) engages the winch bar holes (36) in winch drum (34). The spindle (10) is fitted with either a large hand crank (28), small hand crank (32) or motor (38) allowing the operator to rapidly and conveniently rewind loose load securing straps that will not be immediately reused to secure a new load onto the load securing winch (32).

Abstract: A forward dumping, two-wheeled barrow possessing the means to prevent inadvertent rearward dumping and/or injury to the operator is herein disclosed. The primary subassemblies of the forward dumping, two-wheeled barrow include a frame assembly, a wheel assembly, and the cargo receptacle. The frame assembly preferably includes an adjustable length handle assembly and a safety/spill prevention bracket located somewhere between the wheels and the end of the handle assembly. This novel feature prevents potential injury to the operator or nearby individuals (e.g. to the feet) and avoids the problem of emptying all or some of the receptacle's contents in an unintended location. In addition, the safety bracket provides a stable rearward loading position with minimal risk of tipping and/or rolling. The ergonomically designed barrow is fabricated of a variety of strong, lightweight materials (e.g. aluminum, reinforced plastics) to provide a high-strength-to-weight ratio.

Abstract: A method for psychometric assessment testing of both cognitive and motor ability to assimilate and follow instructions. The assessment method tasks a subject to assemble a subset of inter-fitting parts from a collection of parts in a specific manner as defined by an instruction set presented to the subject, and with the help of specific reference cues. A number of inter-fitting parts are placed before a subject, each bearing various labels for guiding assembly. Some of the parts are functionally similar except in dimension. Next, the subject is given a menu of the parts bearing not-to-scale illustrations of all the parts (labels omitted), and names for the respective parts. Next, the subject is given a ruler, and then a set of assembly instructions including a set of written directions for assembling a subset of the parts in a pre-selected manner by reference to part name, dimensions, and labeled indicia. The subject is instructed to begin, and an administrator times assembly.

Abstract: Trading cards for clothing and the like that include an integral removable gemstone applique (tattoo), or an integral removable temporary printed tattoo with gemstone adornments, both for body ornamentation purposes. The gemstone tattoo is formed on a multi-layer-paper backing that is attached to the trading card by special pressure sensitive adhesive. The tattoo also includes a water soluble slip layer, a waterproof film coating, and a plurality of gemstones bonded to the waterproof film and sandwiched between the film and slip layer. The gemstone trading card is a stimulating and eye-catching novelty that compels notice by potential customers.

Abstract: An improved concealed holster, for use by either right- or left-handed wearers, comprises a holster bracket worn at the abdomen and having a pair of laterally-spaced spacer flanges joined by an arcuate panel generally conforming to the curve of the body. A pistol seat protrudes inward from the arcuate panel for seating a pistol thereon within the confines of the flanges, panel and the user's body. The holster is intended to be worn under the trousers at the abdomen and the pistol is easily dislodged by pressing up on its barrel with one hand, and then quick-drawn with the other hand. The improved holster does not compromise between accessibility and full-concealment, permitting instant accessibility to facilitate a quick-draw. Both holster and pistol can be worn comfortably and securely over a prolong period of time. Moreover, the device can easily and economically be made using a variety of economical manufacturing processes (molding, metal stamping, etc.

Abstract: An integrated system for modeling framed structures, quantifying framing information, and for automatically cutting and notching framing components (or alternatively for transferring a marking layout onto framing components for subsequent controlled cutting, notching, and placement). The system defines parametric models for a plurality of discrete wall panel components and wall panels incorporating the discrete wall panel component models. The system then defines an intersecting spatial relationship while tracking user progress to ensure completion, and compiles an overall parametric model. Once the model is completed, the system compiles design data and produces command signals which are fed to an automatic notching station for coordinating and controlling operation thereof. The notching station then automatically cuts and notches the framing components.

Abstract: A rectangular sheet of flexible and resilient material such as plastic with notches at the midpoint of its sides. The size of the sheet and notches allow the insert to be placed into and located by a cell of a chain link fence. Notches fit around the wire crossovers of the chain link fence and locate the insert at the mid-plane of the fence. The corners of the insert extend into adjoining cells. Adjoining inserts overlap to provide complete visual privacy. The tile-like nature of the inserts allows great flexibility in arrangements and colors to provide visual privacy, decoration, words, logos, or signage.

Abstract: An article of furniture bearing a plurality of tiles on a top surface. A frame is disposed on the top surface for removably securing said tiles thereon. The frame comprises an external frame member surrounding and forming a border along the top surface, and an internal frame comprising a centrally disposed spine with a plurality of ribs extending outward from the spine at regularly spaced intervals. The internal frame is seated within the external frame and subdivides the area therein into a plurality of recesses. The tiles are removably seated within the recesses anywhere within the table top grid, and they can be rearranged on the surface within the recesses according to the whim of the user. Each tile bears a distinctive color or finish, and the user may arrange the tiles on the surface of the table according to his or her whim, for purposes of artistic expression, or purely for entertainment.

Abstract: A bar code scanner for either fixed or hand-held disposition at a counter. The scanner includes a compact housing including a spherical head with a window and a downwardly protruding stem, and a sliding carriage attached to the base of the stem. The stem and sliding carriage cooperate with arcuate guide rails in the compact base for positioning the window via pivoting the head about a horizontal axis.

Abstract: A system for reading training for improving a subject's reading speed and comprehension. The reader reads aloud into a microphone attached to an amplifier and headset. The amplifier filters out the low frequency sounds and emphasizes the high and mid-range frequency sounds as the sounds are directed to the reader's dominant ear, which allows the reader to listen attentively with his or her dominant ear, clarifying perception and speeding the listening process. The reader is taught reading protocol, such as emphasizing, pronunciation, articulation, breathing, pausing. The reader intermittently looks into a mirror placed strategically so that he or she can observe posture and lip movement and make adjustments to these reading protocol components. The reader repeats the reading aloud and feedback until reading speed and comprehension are improved to the desired level. The reading improvement training system (inclusive of training tools and method of using the tools) improves reading skills, e.g.

Abstract: An adjustable trailer hitch which provides an operator improved remote control of the lateral position of a trailer hitch, and simplifies the procedure of hooking a trailer to a tow vehicle. The trailer hitch comprises a hitch assembly (such as a ball receptacle) attached to a roller carriage which moves from side-to-side along a bumper-like housing. The roller carriage engages a positioning screw, and an electric motor mounted in a sealed end cap powers the positioning screw. Rotation of the screw translates into rightward or leftward lateral movement of the roller carriage and consequently of the ball receptacle assembly. Motion of the ball receptacle assembly is controlled via a wireless remote control unit. Such direct control over the precise lateral position of the trailer hitch enables the operator to accurately steer the trailer when traveling in reverse.

Abstract: A hands-free carry-bag/umbrella sling with a frontally-disposed receptacle and rearward support harness. The support harness comprises a broad three-strap wishbone support for holding a significant load and the umbrella securely against the body. The frontal receptacle is sized to carry a considerable payload, and it includes a pocket for receiving the handle of any conventional umbrella, inclusive of curved handles. A support that is sewn into the carry-bag/umbrella sling supports the shaft of the umbrella. The particularly configured shape provides a snug fit, yet the carry-bag provides for quick and easy deployment and removal. The free-hanging design safely and securely holds any size umbrella in its open configuration. Moreover, when the carry-bag is not in use, its particularly configured paneled structure easily collapses and folds for storage.

Abstract: An improved system for the conversion, storage and querying of cellular biological assay data on the basis of experimental design. The system relies on a library of data entry forms inclusive of separate forms for prompting a user to enter data characterizing the effects of a test agent applied to a test cell population's experimental group as compared to its control group with all other agents being identical between the experimental group and control group, and assay forms for prompting a user to enter data characterizing an experimental effect of an agent on said test cell population. The collected data is stored in different data storage records inclusive of a first data storage record incorporating characteristics of all agents entered by said agent data entry forms, and a second data storage record incorporating all experimental effects of agents as entered by said assay data entry forms. The first data storage record is related to the second data storage record by one or more shared fields.

Abstract: The ability to incorporate iodoform, tetracycline and a combination of iodoform/tetracycline into root canal gutta percha points is described. The iodoform, tetracycline and iodoform/tetracycline combination are bound within the gutta percha points. They act as a reservoir of antimicrobial that is capable of diffusing onto the surface of the gutta percha thereby inhibiting the colonization of bacteria on the gutta percha points and within the root canal system. Tetracycline is capable of coalescing within the dentinal tubules to inhibit long term microbial growth. These medicated gutta percha points are site specific, surface acting antimicrobial gutta percha points. A method of the usage and delivery of amorphous form iodoform gutta percha, iodoform/tetracycline gutta percha, or tetracycline gutta percha within a heated compule with a pressure plunger by delivering the thermo-softened heat labile amorphous form via a pressure extrusion system through a cannula into the prepared root canal system.

Abstract: A multifunctional device for use in an endoscopically performed operative procedure of the type where a narrow portal is established through the skin to provide access to an operative site and the multifunctional device is introduced to the operative site through the narrow portal. The multifunctional device is formed of an absorbent material, preferably expandable, having a substantially rigid dry state prior to introduction to the operative site and a soft, flexible wet state after absorbing fluids. The absorbent material can be formed with a spine therein and the spine can be branched and tubular or solid. The multifunctional device can have a passage therethrough to accommodate laser, electrosurgical, biopsy or culturing instruments.

Abstract: A direct plug electric candle lighting system is herein disclosed. The system comprises an electric single outlet/receptacle mounted in a window sill and an electric candle assembly designed to plug directly into the single outlet/receptacle. The window sill-mounted single outlet/receptacle includes a three-wire, grounded single outlet/receptacle rated for a maximum current of 15 amps and a maximum voltage of 125 volts and a decorative metallic cover plate. The electric candle assembly may include a grounded plug rated for a maximum current of 15 amps and a maximum voltage of 125 volts, a decorative metallic base, a plastic candle body, and a low wattage, flame-shaped light bulb.