Abstract: In an embodiment of the invention, a cut/weld apparatus is configured to provide optimal and limited tension of bag material even during high-speed operation. The limited tension may contribute to stronger plastic welds. Another embodiment of the invention, which may be used in combination with the first embodiment, provides a roll discharge stage in a bag manufacturing apparatus that includes a retracting spindle and may include a rotating tray. The improved discharge stage requires less floor space than conventional side-discharge manufacturing equipment.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide an apparatus and method for developing emotional literacy. Embodiments of the invention may be best suited for teaching preschool children, but the invention is not limited thereto. An embodiment of the invention provides an apparatus for teaching emotional literacy that includes: a first plurality of holding bins; a plurality of emotion cards; and a mirror disposed proximate to the first plurality of holding bins. Another embodiment of the invention provides a method for using the aforementioned apparatus that includes: observing the user depositing a selected one of the plurality of emotion cards into a selected one of the first plurality of holding bins; and discussing the expressed emotion with the user.

Abstract: A plastic bag includes a plastic bag body with 4-layer gussets on two sides and 2-layer film in the middle. The plastic bag body is provided with a curved hot-seal line near a bottom edge of the bag body. The curved hot seal line turns upward on two sides and is recessed in the middle. Since plastic bags with the structure referred to herein eliminate a stress concentration at a bottom hot-seal location, such plastic bags have increased load-bearing capacity.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide, among other things, an improved system and method for building logical associations (links) between files and for assigning attributes to the files and/or links. In embodiments of the invention, such attribute data is indexed in a data store according to Universally Unique Identifiers (UUIDs) in each file header.

Abstract: In embodiments of the invention, a dredging head assembly uses vacuum only, or a combination of vacuum and flexible PVC tines, rather than the harsh digging and/or scraping features of conventional dredging equipment. Embodiments of the invention also provide a dredging head assembly that may be used in very shallow water. An embodiment of the invention includes a hose and wand to enable vacuuming around obstacles.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide an inclinometer that is compact, can be easily read with a vertical or horizontal line of sight, and/or readily convey a preferred range of incline angles for an operational sluice box.

Abstract: Embodiment of the invention relate to a container. In one respect, embodiments of the invention provide a container that is useful in advertising because of its distinctive shape and faux pull ring, and/or because it is configured to output a jingle or other stored audio. Moreover, in embodiments of the invention, the container is configured as a cooler with a thermal insulator. Such a cooler may also include an automatic lid mechanism that allows for hands-free operation by users that seek to retrieve, for instance, a cold beverage from the cooler.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a mounting apparatus that includes at least two ceiling mounts. Each of two scissor mounts may be coupled to the same or different dropped ceiling rail(s) using a corresponding scissor clip feature. The mounting apparatus further includes a mounting pipe that is coupled to each of the scissor mounts. The mounting pipe is thus suspended by the scissor mounts below the dropped ceiling, providing an unlimited number of potential mounting positions for lighting and/or lighting accessories.