Abstract: A surface cleaning device comprising a cleaning element, optionally with an impermeable barrier between wetting and drying parts. The cleaning element may be supported by a main body, e.g., an elongated tubular form, having at least one main body hole for fluid to flow through it to the cleaning element. An inner body has at least one inner body hole and is slideable relative to the main body, in response to finger pressure and preferably an opposing biasing means, between a neutral position and a dispensing position. In the dispensing position, the locations of the inner body and main body allow fluid to flow from the inner body hole into the main body hole. In the neutral position, a seal is formed at least in part by the fit between the inner body and the main body for substantially preventing the flow. Preferably, a stopping component limits outward movement and anti-twist features resist twisting of the inner body relative to the main body.

Abstract: A business method utilizing a system comprising one or more distributed computers, application software, off-the-shelf peripheral components including keyboard-and-mouseless data entry (KDE) devices, business processes, human and KDE device readable data, related information on removable data storage media or available from external databases, and existing communications systems for speeding and improving: 1) personal or business automation, efficiency and productivity, goal attainment; 2) improving, speeding and automating the person-computer interface; 3) selection, acquisition, and tracking usage of items acquired from an existing supply chain; 4) marketing items and retaining customers buying the products, controlling their usage, and disseminating information about the products.

Abstract: Disclosed is an improved splicing nut of the type having a threaded nut portion and a core that is capable of being threaded into the nut portion, the nut portion and the core cooperating to receive and firmly retain a line therein. In the first embodiment of the invention, a visualization port is included in the core for providing visual access to at least a portion of the area between the nut portion and the core so that a user may quickly ascertain by looking through the visualization port whether or not a line is fully engaged with the splicing nut. Additional provision is made to cause the line to be compressed when the core is threaded into the nut portion and tightened. As a result, line slippage within the splicing nut is prevented. The invention further includes a fastening portion of the core that is exposed when the nut portion is firmly tightened onto the core.

Abstract: An adjustable artwork display for suspending a displayed item, such as a picture, away from a wall surface is disclosed. The mounting bracket comprises a rigid, planar base that includes a rigid extension sleeve projecting away therefrom. At least one rigid extension rod is slidably and rotationally receivable within the extension sleeve and fixed therein. A front side of a picture plate includes at least one hook means adapted to support the picture. A rear side of the picture plate includes an extension rod attachment means that may slidably and rotationally receive the at least one extension rod therein. In use, the base is fixed to the wall surface with a mechanical fastener. With at least one extension rod fixed in the extension sleeve and also fixed to the picture plate, the picture may be suspended from the hook means of the picture plate away from the wall surface.

Abstract: A compact, improved injector-mixer for injecting and thoroughly mixing fine bubbles of air into a contaminated water stream from a fish tank is disclosed. Water is pumped down through an injection section of the present invention where air is injected into the stream by an improved Venturi construction. The mixture then flows into an improved mixing section, vertically disposed within a protein skimmer chamber, where it is thoroughly mixed such that the plethora of small air bubbles have a greater chance to bond with the contaminants of the water, the contaminants becoming buoyant as a result. Upon introduction of the mixture into the protein skimmer chamber, the bubbles of air and contaminants attached thereto rise to the top of the protein skimmer column to be contained, while the filtered and oxygenated water is returned to the tank through a base of the protein skimmer chamber.

Abstract: A combination shipping container and vehicle is disclosed that may be handled and lifted in a similar fashion to a standard shipping container, and also may provide its own motive force for driving as a vehicle. The combination includes a vehicle frame that is generally the length and width of the standard shipping container. The frame provides a strong support framework for the combination. An engine is supported by the frame, and a suspension supports at least four wheels by the frame. A transmission mounted to the frame transfers rotational energy from the engine to at least two of the wheels through a transfer case and an axle. A driver's cab is fixed to and above the frame at a forward end thereof and includes driver controls for controlling the engine, steering and braking of at least two of the wheels, and other related motor vehicle functions. A container portion is fixed to and above the frame at a rear end thereof.

Abstract: A pneumatic thermostat calibration device with a removable cover to protect the sensor needle from clogging and/or damage and the user from needle induced injury. The pneumatic thermostat calibration device should also be sized to fit in the pocket of a user. The pneumatic thermostat calibration device should also include a thermostat adjustment tool. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract, which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A tool for shutting off water supplies is disclosed. A variety of water supply valves can be controlled with a single too. The tool has different fittings on each end, such as wrenches. The wrenches may be of variable width to accommodate a large number of water supply valves. A bar is inserted into rings provided on the tool to provide substantial torque to open and close the water supply valves. The tool can be readily stored and carried on utility or fire trucks.

Abstract: A notification system monitors changes in air flow channeled between a positive air pressure generator and a CPAP mask supplying positive airway pressure to a patient during treatment of sleep apnea. An air flow sensor and/or pressure sensor is positioned to monitor air flow channeled to the mask. When a sensor detects a significant change in air flow and/or air pressure, a detection signal is analyzed by a controller unit microprocessor for comparisons with a preselected operating range for air flow and/or pressure. Upon verification the air flow and/or pressure is not within the preselected range, a remote transmission is transmitted to an alarm means proximal of the patient. The alarm means directs at least one stimulus to the patient for alerting and waking the patient. The alarm stimulus includes audio and/or vibratory stimuli of sufficient intensity to alert the patient that mask adjustments are required for proper CPAP treatment.

Abstract: A novel airplane shelter provides a plurality of arched vertical support members arranged axially along a line corresponding to the fuselage of an airplane to be sheltered. A cantilever beam is attached to the apex of each arched vertical support member, forming a “spine” along the top of the aligned arched support members. The cantilever beam is attached at one end to the rearwardmost arched support member, and the opposite end extends forwardly past the forwardmost arched support member to a point corresponding to the forwardmost point of an airplane to be sheltered. Separate lateral support members are placed at points corresponding to the wingtips of the airplane. The result is an open frame that defines a volume capable of enclosing an airplane. A covering material is placed over the open frame and stretched taut or otherwise secured over the entire structure.

Abstract: The invention is a multi-compartmented dog leash handle assembly. The handle assembly has a compartment capable of carrying keys, money and/or plastic waste bags. The handle also has provisions for the easy transport of dog food and water. The handle also has a mechanism for attaching to the loop handle of a typical dog leash. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: A cutting tool includes a housing having a first end with a first edge and a second end. A handle extends from the second end of the housing. The housing has a slideable blade with a cutting position and a retracted position inside the housing. A finger portion is cantilevered from the first end of the housing. The finger portion and the first edge define an elongated opening having a juncture end at the first end of the housing. A cutting edge is embedded at the juncture end. The cutting edge is shaped, sized and orientated to facilitate forward slitting of heavy plastic sheet. The slideable blade slides axially along a track. A biasing means repositions the slideable blade from the cutting position to the retracted position.