Abstract: A field easel with an integrated sketch box is provided. The sketch box comprises cavities for art supplies, allowing art supplies to be stored inside the cavity and secured with plates covered in memory foam. An easel is hinged to the rear wall of the box such that the easel can display painting support in a multitude of angles, and the easel provides adjustable support clamps that accept different sizes of painting support and can raise and lower the height of the painting support with respect to the box. Optionally, the field easel can be secured to a standardized tripod.

Abstract: A selective position control system and method are disclosed. The system includes a processor, remote control and solenoid valve in conjunction with interacting valving, a potentiometer or ultra-sonic device and necessary wiring. The system interfaces wit the tractor's manual hydraulic lever operations which raise or lower equipment by effecting cylinder extensions or retractions. The system is separate from the tractor hydraulic system but interfaces by energizing a solenoid valve that stops oil flow and causes the manually detented tractor hydraulic valve to center from a working position. The system's processor establishes two programmed toggle switch settings; one typically slaved to the other. The system accommodates other manually activated positions, up or down, from the programmed positions, with return to set points of programmed positions. The remote control incorporates a toggle device with three positions, an up/down rocker switch, a set switch and an LED readout.

Abstract: The present treatment cocktail represents a dual mode topical treatment for the skin disease psoriasis. The composition contains at least an Analgesic Agent and a Drying Agent as selected from the group disclosed herein. The agents heal psoriatic plaques by promoting the exfoliation of existing psoriatic plaques and preventing additional plaque formation. Further, the dual mode action is useful to reduce the pain and itching associated with such plaques which results in less irritation and shorter outbreaks.

Abstract: A banjo tensioner is provided in which wave springs inserted between the flange and the nuts operate to maintain a constant tension on the banjo hooks. The invention also contemplates using a wave spring as placed between the washer that applies pressure to the rim and the top coordinator rod nut to maintain the pressure on the inside of the rim. The tensioner may also be used on a drum.

Abstract: A method for selecting a freshwater fish able to tolerate conditions of varying salinity is disclosed. Fish are first selected by pre-screening for salt-tolerance. The selected fish are bred using techniques essentially described herein. The offspring of the selected fish may then be subjected to additional factors to increase salt-tolerance. Thereafter, the offspring are reared in normal freshwater conditions resulting in a freshwater fish suitable for brief exposures to saltwater conditions.

Abstract: An apparatus and associated method for the direct and objective grading of the cut and symmetry of gemstones is provided. The apparatus comprises a laser, an integration sphere, and a gemstone holder, which together measure certain optical characteristics of the gemstone. Optionally, the gemstone holder mechanically rotates and the integration sphere connects to a data recorder such that a plurality of measurements may be recorded and analyzed. The associated method provides a method for interpretation of the data generated by the apparatus as the data relates to the cut quality and symmetry of the gemstone.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of using the same is disclosed. The apparatus has a base and a plurality of shears adjustably secured thereto. Each shear has one cutting element that is adjustable secured to the base and another cutting element that is pivotally secured to the other cutting element. A handle operably connects the cutting elements to allow simultaneous cutting by the shears. The cutting apparatus is useful in bending sheet material such as aluminum or vinyl coil stock used in trimming structures. In use, the shears are adjusted on the base to cut slits in desired locations on a sheet. A sheet is put in place, and the shears are actuated to cut a plurality of slits in a side of sheet material, preferably simultaneously. The sheet is then repositioned, and the shears are actuated to cut a plurality of slits in another side of the sheet. The sheet is then folded along lines extending between pairs of slits. The folded sheet is then affixed to a structure such as a house.

Abstract: A garment is disclosed comprising a back panel, means for tensioning the back panel about a backpack, and a front panel. The tensioning means extends around a front portion of the back panel, along upper, lower, and side portions of the back panel. The tensioning means may be a drawstring. The front panel may have a hood, arm openings, and sleeves. The back panel forms a back chamber sized to fit over a backpack. The back chamber preferably has a maximum volume of greater than or equal to approximately 2 cubic feet. The back chamber also preferably has a depth of greater than or equal to approximately 8 inches, a width of greater than or equal to approximately 18 inches, and a height of greater than or equal to approximately 24 inches. In use, the back panel is placed over a backpack with the front panel positioned between the back panel and the backpack. The backpack is then placed on the user's back.

Abstract: A proximity signaling system and method are disclosed in which first and second transmitters are disposed on first and second mobile objects. The first and second transmitters generate first and second RF signals with first and second receiver addresses, respectively. A receiver is disposed remotely from the first and second transmitters. The receiver has a first and second microcontroller decoders for recognizing the first and second RF signals, respectively. The receiver has a gradual proximity display, such as a bar graph display, for indicating signal strength. The receiver also has first and second proximity alerts, such as lights, beepers, or voice chips, for signaling proximity of the first and second objects, respectively. In use, the first microcontroller decoder filters signals received by the receiver and passes only signals having the first receiver address along to the display and alerts.

Abstract: A combination holster for weapons having a front stock and a butt-stock, comprising a front stock holster having interior and exterior portions, the interior portion mimicking the contour of the front stock, and a butt-stock retraction element connected to the user and to the butt stock. The retention element may be a cord connected to a vest. The weapon is secured in a first position in which the front stock holster grips the front-stock, and the retraction element retains the butt-stock near the user. The weapon may be unsecured by removing the front stock from its holster and applying a drawing force to the retention element to pull the butt-stock away from the user. To return the weapon to a secure position, the user returns the front stock its holster and permits the butt-stock retention element retain the butt-stock near the user.