Abstract: The automatic coiling machine is a device for automatically coiling an elongated flexible element, such as a fishing line. The automatic coiling machine includes a housing adapted for mounting to a support surface, such as a wall of a boat. The housing includes at least one sidewall. A drive roller is rotatably mounted to the sidewall by a drive shaft. A drive system, such as a motor, is mounted to the sidewall for selectively and controllably driving rotation of the drive shaft and, thus, the drive roller. An idler roller is rotatably mounted to the sidewall adjacent the drive roller and contacting the drive roller so that rotation of the drive roller drives rotation of the idler roller. The sidewall is angled so that an axis of rotation of the drive roller is angled with respect to the axis of rotation of the idler roller.

Abstract: An active keyboard system includes a processor, a memory, and a display communicatively connected to one another. The system includes input means for inputting data and commands into the system. The input means include at least one selector, and a plurality of keys. Active keyboard system software is stored on the memory and is configured to dynamically present available choices on the display grouped to effect unambiguous selection of the available choices through use of the input means. The active keyboard system software includes presentation code and filter code. The presentation code includes step or scroll resolution code to enable scrolling, and grid presentation code to organize available choices on a visual grid and provide the visual grid to the display. The grid presentation code configures the visual grid with one or more panes each configured as a matrix with a plurality of columns and plurality of rows.

Abstract: An active keyboard for handheld electronic devices which allows the user of the device to support the device and enter text and data while using only one hand. The device has a housing, a display, a processor, a memory, a selection device, and at least four keys. When the handheld device is gripped the keys underlay the tips of the user's fingers and the selection device underlays the user's thumb. The software outputs a grid design to the display showing several columns of values. The user highlights a set of four values using the selection device and those values are assigned to the keys. Pressing a key enters the values assigned to that key into the text area of the display or if the value represents a mode of operation, runs the program controlling that mode.

Abstract: An electronic repository for jobseekers' references on the Internet. The jobseeker registers himself and his reference sources on an Internet site. The references are notified via e-mail, they subsequently log in and enter their personal or professional reference or letter of reference for the jobseeker. The jobseeker gives perspective Recruiters/Employers information on accessing his references. The list of references is available at no charge, but the detail of the reference document can be purchased by the Recruiter/Employer. All required security is implemented. The advantages of this process include: (1) elimination of repeated contact of jobseekers' references for positions that change frequently; (2) virtually instant checking of references, eliminating loss of potential employee through extended process; and (3) significant reduction in cost and time of checking reference by recruiter/Employer.

Abstract: One or two filters in brackets are integrated with a square or circular fan. Filters and associated brackets are provided both in the front and in the rear of the fan in one embodiment. In another embodiment, a single filter in a bracket is provided at the rear of the fan. The filter(s) can be pre-pleated and pre-activated carbon filter(s). The fan housing can include a pocket for adding an odorizing and/or deodorizing agent. A plurality of stick-on right-angled brackets having the capacity of adjustable clearance to snugly hold the filters is another embodiment.

Abstract: A method of safely using cigarettes, utilizing the steps of obtaining a plurality of cigarettes and a safety container, placing a maximum number of the cigarettes to safely smoke per day into the safety container, distributing a maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke per day and smoking only up to the maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke during the day. The safety container provides instructions on how to estimate a maximum safe number of cigarettes to smoke based on the amount of nicotine in the cigarettes, the size of the cigarettes and the quality of filter used with the cigarettes. There is also a second embodiment of the method, which involves providing cigarettes that already come in a safety container with safety instructions.

Abstract: A toilet training aid comprising a platform and set of safety rails. The platform has a cutout that enables it to be placed directly in front of a standard toilet so that the toilet seat over-hangs the platform. A set of adjustable safety handrails provides small children with an added sense of security while using the toilet and can be completely removed if desired.

Abstract: A vehicle computer system that integrates a diverse array of electronic systems and services into a single, user-friendly system that allows a user to shop, order and purchase items, pay for tolls, communicate, determine geographic location, and ascertain weather conditions. The on-board computer system employs a distinctive touch screen display, and has the capacity to play both audio and video, to monitor and control a vehicle's operation, to provide security to a vehicle, and to connect to the Internet.

Abstract: An adjustable pedal drive mechanism for bicycles and exercise machines includes a pedal arm attachment plate assembly on each side of the cycle or machine frame. Each plate assembly provides adjustment of the pivotally attached pedal arm, for altering its arcuate travel path and limits. Each pedal arm and plate includes a mechanism for infinitesimally adjusting the corresponding tension member (cable, chain, etc.) to predetermined positional limits, for altering the system's mechanical advantage. The mechanical ratios of each pedal arm are independently adjustable by handlebar controls. The tension member is reciprocated back and forth with corresponding strokes of the corresponding pedal arm, producing rotary force to the rear wheel with each pedal stroke. The rear wheel sprockets/pulleys drive one way mechanisms (ratchets, cam and roller, etc.) on the rear wheel hub. A stationary stand may be provided for a bicycle incorporating the mechanism, for use as an exercise machine.

Abstract: A sports glove holder for allowing a glove to be attached comfortably and securely to the belt of a player. The sports glove holder has loops for attaching the holder to the belt of the player. A hook and loop fastener allows the glove to be removably attached to the holder. The hook and loop fastener is attached to a machine-pressed indent in the main body using a material specific adhesive. This allows the device to withstand the repetitive removal of the glove without fear of the hook and loop fastener coming loose. The sports glove holder can be color coordinated with the uniform or outfit worn by the player.

Abstract: A vibrator blanket for use with pets has a battery pouch having a battery pack located on the back of the animal, such as a dog, for energizing a plurality of small vibrators distributed within the blanket, for imparting vibration to various locations on the pet. The blanket has layers between which the vibrators and electrical wiring are installed, to keep the pet from damaging the vibrator system. A switch is used to select different levels of vibration. The blanket may be split at the belly and have buckles or Velcro to secure the blanket. The under-blanket is preferably at least one layer of insulated fabric upon which up to 50 vibrator motors are mounted per side of the animal below the backbone. Separate battery packs having external control switches for selecting levels of vibration are installed so as to be on each side of the back of the animal.

Abstract: A glove is provided for motorists to use when pumping gasoline at self-service stations. The glove is fabricated from light-weight, gasoline-impermeable material and is designed to be worn on either hand. The glove is made in many colors and is scented to compliment each color.

Abstract: The use of vanillin as a hypolipidemic—a hypotriglyceridemic pharmaceutical agent over a wide range of concentration in the treatment of diabetes (type-2), cardiovascular disturbances, and obesity. Vanillin is also used as a food additive for preventing the development of such pathological conditions, particularly in young people.

Abstract: A combination apparatus for vehicles with or without an open bed comprising an elevated viewing perch or observation stand with a seat, a luggage/personnel carrier/kayak carrier, a pontoon boat, a fishing platform, and a farm plow. The viewing perch can be mounted on an open bed vehicle such as ATV's, trucks or the like vehicles and have a ladder-type frame on rear wheels. The frame can be used as a utility trailer for hauling equipment, game or an injured person, and readily converted to an elevated position and used as a viewing or hunting stand. The apparatus can be raised to the elevated position by hand or by a winch, can serve as a tent shelter with bunk-type cots placed inside, and can be wired for lighting, energized by the vehicle's battery.

Abstract: A water-resistant, insulated electrical connector for maintaining a secure connection therebetween to ensure uninterrupted current flow between male and female endpieces. The male endpiece features a double cylinder base with at least one O-ring and an annular groove. Electrical prongs project from the end of the male endpiece. The female endpiece has a lip at one end and features a cylindrical base, a cylindrical enclosure and a spring-biased sleeve which slidably engages the cylindrical base. The sleeve is manually retractable. A plurality of balls are loosely retained within and protrude from respective cavities defined by the inner surface of the cylindrical enclosure in an annular formation. The female endpiece defines sockets to receive the electrical prongs in well known fashion. Coupling of the male and female endpieces enables the insertion of the prongs into their respective sockets.

Abstract: An adjustable fitted cover for household items comprising a sheet of pliable material further comprising a bag-like structure with an opening. The opening has a continuous edge which is folded and stitched to form a channel along the edge of the opening. A closure, such as a drawstring or elastic ribbon, is enclosed within the channel for securably adjusting said cover on the household item. The material used may be of various colors, patterns, and textures so as to complement any decor. Additionally, the cover may be dimensioned and configured to accommodate various sizes and types of household items, including but not limited to frames, vases and doors. The cover may also employ a hook and loop fastener system to allow the use of interchangeable displays. Furthermore, assorted sizes and shapes of covers may be grouped together for use as a coordinating kit.

Abstract: An adjustable contour pillow provides for the manual or powered inflation of the chamber or chambers therein, as well as other alternative features such as heat, massage, and/or cooling, and is particularly valuable to persons suffering from neck strain. In one embodiment, the pillow includes three separate laterally disposed elongate fluid chambers, each having a coplanar lower wall. The central chamber has a center and an upper wall which is lower than the centers and upper walls of the other two chambers, thus defining an elongate valley extending from one end to the other of the pillow. The valley serves to cradle the back of the head, with the uppermost chamber (relative to the user) cradling the upper back of the head and the lowermost chamber supporting the back of the neck of a supine person. The selective and independent inflation of the different chambers may be accomplished manually, or by an automated powered pump arrangement.