Abstract: A system enables selection of live, pre-recorded and locally synchronized video of desirable travel destinations worldwide. The system includes a viewer control module and a display monitor such as a television, a plurality of video cameras aimed at scenic sites of interest, a networked computer communicatively coupled to the video cameras and user control module, and a network for selectively communicating video and data between the various components.

Abstract: In recent decades within the building industry, there has been a trend toward mass production of building components. The trend has included every part of structures except for the concrete slab the building is built on. The “Threshold Tray and Clip System” uses mass-produced products to be applied to construction of slabs and foundations, allowing sill steps to be built in rough openings with pre-fabricated form parts. The forms remain in the concrete and are permanent. This means that consistent results can be expected. Other mass-produced products, such as door systems, will fit into rough openings more accurately. Over-all quality of the structure will be increased.

Abstract: A system and methodology assesses whether an error correction should be applied to detected blocks based on determined correction application criteria, and, if warranted according to the assessment, applies block-specific error corrections to detected blocks. Global error corrections, such as edge corrections, are also enabled.

Abstract: A system for reducing skin friction drag includes a user-controlled drag reducing substance and components for introducing the substance at or near the surface of the object for which skin friction drag is desired. In a fluid injection system embodiment, a pressurized injectant source supplies an injectant, an injector device injects the injectant near the surface of the object for which drag reduction is desired, a hose or conduit directs flow of the pressurized fluid from the source to the injector device and a control device enables a user to control the flow.

Abstract: An insulated electrical connector for securely connecting one or more unstripped insulated wires uses a conductive engagement member capable of frictionally engaging and penetrating insulation and contacting a conductive wire core.

Abstract: An overlay mattress has a plurality of internal elevating means, such as inflatable bladders, for raising selected portions of the mattress to achieve a wide range of patient positions. A fluid such as air may be supplied from a conventional surgical room air supply, a compressed canister, or a compressor to inflate the bladders. A fluid distribution system controls the flow of fluid to desired bladders. The overlay mattress may be used in conjunction with conventional surgical tables and mattresses. A thermal control means is also included in the overlay mattress to regulate a patient's body temperature. A pressure shifting means is also included to reduce the risk of bedsore formation.

Abstract: A head edger apparatus for producing a centered, uniform, repeatable cut around sprinkler heads (or similar objects), without marring or damaging the sprinkler heads includes a body, a plurality of cutting members releasably and adjustably attached to the body, a non-slip boot rotatably mounted to the center of the body. The body may be securely engaged to a rotatable shaft of a motorized trimmer. Rotation of a trimmer shaft causes the body to rotate. Cutting portions of the cutting members travel in a circular orbit having a determined radius, cutting a circular path as they travel around the sprinkler head. The boot is positioned on the top center of the sprinkler head, protecting the sprinkler head and providing a stable support around which the cutting members travel.

Abstract: A surgical drape for use in connection with a sterility maintenance cover has an opening that corresponds to an open window in a sterility maintenance cover to facilitate ventilation and access to a patient's head, a window that corresponds to a window in a sterility maintenance cover to enhance patient comfort and observation, and attachment means for releasably attaching the drape to a sterility maintenance cover, and one or more fenestrations to facilitate surgical access at desired locations.

Abstract: An environmentally controlled heating system for heating metal alloy billets wherein a trolley system carries the billets through the chambers of the induction heating system in crucibles that are pushed or pulled by actuators. The billets enter the system through a load-chamber and travel through a main chamber to a heating area where the loaded crucibles pass through a series of induction heating coils. The heated billets leave the heating area through a dump-chamber where they are delivered to a forming system. The empty crucibles reenter the main chamber and travel back to the loading area to receive another billet. The heating system is controlled through a computing device for monitoring and controlling the system, preferably a programmable logic controller. A vacuum system evacuates air from the chambers, and an inert gas system back-fills the chambers with an inert gas. A gettering system continually cleans the inert gas.

Abstract: The sign covering of the present invention is an all weather covering for concealing the insignia side of a sign, and more particularly a roadway sign. The covering is made of a weather resistant fabric, such as polypropylene, and is light enough for a single person to install. The sign covering does not damage the sign nor is it susceptible to the elements. Typically, straps affixed to a sheet covering the insignia side of the sign hold the cover in place. The straps are tied at the back of the sign using a cord fitted through the eyelets of grommets positioned at the free end of each strap and into the corresponding grommets that are positioned at the opposite edge of the sheet. Once securely attached, the sign cover effectively hides the insignia side of the sign from view.

Abstract: This invention relates to solid, bare, consumable wire electrodes for gas metal arc (GMA) welding of high strength low alloy (HSLA) steels. The electrodes require little or no preheat, interpass and post soak temperature controls. The invention also relates to the method of welding and weld deposits produced therefrom.