Abstract: A fishing sinker is comprised of a polyhedron body having a rectangular base and triangular sides with a common blunt vertex, adapted to generate a net upward lifting force during forward motion. The streamlined shape of the sinker also makes it more aerodynamic during casting and minimizes splashing during entry into water. A central channel is formed in the body for receiving an eyelet pin with a swaged end, a straight section extending through said central channel and an integrally formed eyelet portion protruding from the blunt vertex. A plurality of symmetrically arranged stabilizer fins extending along angles of intersection of each adjacent triangular side. The eyelet portion is a resilient eyelet with a slip-on opening biased into a closed position. The vertex makes the sinker quite aerodynamic, as it leads the way on casts through the air and into the water.

Abstract: A scalable cable management system comprises an electronics module with a microcontroller; a plurality of drive modules and a releasably engaged cable cartridge for each drive module. Each cable cartridge houses a lead wire cable spool with an electrical slip ring connected to the wire. Stationary electrical contacts pickup signals from the slip ring for use by the electronics module. A device such as an electric or spring-driven motor, with a gear train and an optional clutch, controllably rotate the cable spool. A cleaning assembly cleans portions of the lead wire as it is extended or retracted. The microcontroller receives strain signals representative of tension on a lead wire from cable strain gauge. The electronics module may also include a defibrillator protection sub-system, a crossbar transfer switch, an instrumentation amplifier and a communications unit. Test terminals are also provided for assessing integrity of each lead wire.

Abstract: An apparatus and assembly for retaining a substantially flat, protective panel within a frame such as a window frame. In one embodiment, the panel retention apparatus of the present invention includes a bracket member for fitting over an edge of the panel, such that the bracket member provides edge and lateral support for the panel. The apparatus further includes a rack and gear mechanism affixed to the bracket member. The rack and gear mechanism preferably includes a circular driving gear and a rack member having a foot member attached at one end and further having a rack gear engaging the circular driving gear such that the rack member is linearly movable with respect to the bracket member responsive to rotational actuation of the circular driving gear. In a preferred embodiment, the rack and gear mechanism components are fabricated of a Delrin composite material which provides a lightweight, corrosion resistant, and low surface friction actuation assembly.

Abstract: A device for preparing a sloped mud surface around a drain prior to setting tile or stone includes one or more arms (i.e., rigid arms) attached to a sleeve and rotatably supported relative to a vertical axis defined by a vertical shaft and horizontal planar base. An adjustable clamp assembly releasably secures the device to a conventional drain, which may be secured to a drainpipe by pipe threads. The bottom edge of the arm provides a straight working edge. The arm can be freely moved (i.e., rotated) around the vertical shaft degrees, counterclockwise and clockwise. As the arm rotates around the vertical shaft the working edge sweeps over the floor mud surface, spreading and leveling the surface while scraping or sweeping away excess material.

Abstract: A wiper system for a truck mirror includes a pneumatic cylinder configured for attachment to a compressed air source. The pneumatic cylinder has an operating rod that is extendable and retractable. It also has a stroke of approximately the width of the mirror. The pneumatic cylinder is configured for front mounting. A low-profile mounting bracket attaches the pneumatic cylinder to the mirror. The mounting bracket is configured for attachment to the front of the pneumatic cylinder and for positioning the front of the pneumatic cylinder adjacent to or abutting a vertical side of the mirror. A wiper blade attaches to the threaded end of the operating rod of the pneumatic cylinder.

Abstract: A device for keeping trash receptacles from being knocked or blown over comprises a rigid vertical rod assembly to which a trash receptacle is gravitationally engaged, and a spike assembly frictionally secured to the ground. The device may comprise one unit or two separable mating parts.