Abstract: A coupling assembly for coupling a first handcuff bracelet and a second handcuff bracelet together, each bracelet including a locking mechanism for opening and closing the bracelet, the coupling assembly comprising: a swivel assembly for permitting angular rotation of at least one of the bracelets in a predetermined first rotational direction relative to a longitudinal axis extending through the swivel assembly and the first and second bracelets, the swivel assembly preventing the bracelets from being rotated in a second rotational direction opposite from said first rotational direction.

Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for golf equipment and the like, the apparatus having combined abrading, polishing and moisture delivery capabilities which may all be caused to act upon a target object simultaneously while shielding the user from wet and soiled surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, the invention is comprised of two adjoining panels of toweling at least one of which is of the terry variety having a plurality of finger-like loops. A portion of one cloth is integrated with a porous mesh scrubbing material on one side and a non-water-permeable backing on the other. The integration of mesh and cloth produce a grid-like duel-textured surface that provides simultaneous abrading and polishing functionality. To further enhance cleaning ability, means for delivering water to the mesh/cloth layer is disposed between the cloth/mesh layer and backing material.

Abstract: A core-strengthening exercise apparatus is comprised generally of three primary components, namely a pair of identically shaped and configured swing arms each of which is pivotally mounted at or proximate to its midpoint to a substantially C-shaped transverse bar member. The apparatus has two general modes of use. In a first mode of use, referred to as the “static mode”, the subject apparatus may be oriented such that its swing arms rest on the floor with the bar member extending therebetween a distance above the floor to provide a stable gripping surface over which a plurality of exercises may be performed. In a second mode of use, referred to as the “dynamic mode”, the apparatus is flipped over such that only the bar member is in contact with the floor supporting the swing arms there above. In this mode, the user supports his or her upper body in the plank position over the apparatus by grasping either end of each swing arm and resting his or her forearms along the longitudinal axis thereof.

Abstract: A computer implemented system and method for encouraging frequent and purposeful electronic communications from caregivers to individuals with impaired memory to, inter alia, alleviate feelings of isolation and improve memory. The system includes a Web-based application through which caregivers send text, image, voice and other forms of data for receipt by the sufferer on a PDA having a simple user interface. The Web application records the dates and nature (i.e., text, audio, photograph, video) of communications sent by each caregiver, processes the data in order to display it in a variety of meaningful ways to all caregivers, thus creating a peer-pressure environment to encourage more frequent communication.

Abstract: A reflective fog filter is comprised of a substantially flat white substrate upon which a translucent color filter is applied. A preferred embodiment comprises a blue translucent acetate filter applied to a bright white metallic substrate. The subject apparatus is placed on the dashboard and/or cowl of a motor vehicle with the filter side up. Ambient light striking the apparatus is filtered and reflected onto the windshield directly in the driver's field of view. The apparatus therefore uses ambient light to project a filter onto the windshield. Visibility of objects in fog and other conditions that scatter light is enhanced when light reflecting from the objects is viewed through that portion of the windshield onto which the filter is reflected.

Abstract: A rotary tube notching apparatus capable of operable attachment to a powered rotational drive device such as a drill, is comprised of a surface mountable tube support assembly capable of alternately receiving straight or bent tubing; a height adjustable carriage assembly pivotally mounted to the tube support assembly to enable offset notching, and a shaft assembly rotatably mounted to said carriage assembly for receiving a cutting tool.

Abstract: A right angle driving apparatus capable of operable attachment to a powered rotational drive device such as a drill, the driving apparatus being generally comprised of a worm gear drive encased within a unique block-shaped housing. The subject driving apparatus may be employed to transmit power at high velocity ratios between a shaft that is driven by the drill to a wheel having an axis of rotation perpendicular to that of the shaft. The worm gear drive may be used as a speed increaser but is preferably used as a speed reducer in which the worm is the driver and the wheel is the driven member. The worm wheel is slidably mounted on a cylindrical hub adapted to receive in either end a variety of driving tools such as sockets and screwdriver blades used to rotate fasteners. The worm wheel is driven by a worm attached to a drive shaft the journaled end of which may be adapted to receive driving tools as well to permit direct driving of tools in addition to right angle driving.

Abstract: A method of preparing an amine-free emulsion of alkaline earth metal sulfonates is disclosed. A solution of water and a nonionic, associative thickener of the type normally used for viscosity and thixotropy modification of latex compounds is combined with an overbased or neutral earth metal sulfonate or sulfonate complex to produce the emulsion. Mixtures of these emulsified products with other ingredients such as neutral diluent oils, linear alcohol/hydrocarbon mixtures, tall oil fatty acids, non-ionic surfactants, oxidized polyethylene waxes, small levels of microcrystalline wax, petrolatums, and/or calcium salts of oxidized petrolatums is also disclosed. The resulting emulsions find application in the modification of asphalt emulsions, the formulation of temporary coatings for the protection of painted automotive surfaces (transit coatings for automobiles) and in the prevention of corrosion of metal surfaces.

Abstract: A bridal accessory apparatus is comprised of an enclosure capable of holding therein important personal items such as cosmetics, facial tissues and mints in a secure fashion and further being capable of removable attachment to conventional bridal bouquet holders of the prior art. The enclosure is sized to remain hidden behind the head member of such bouquet holders when suspended from the neck region thereof using a variety of attachment means. Thusly positioned, the subject apparatus is relatively hidden from view by wedding guests and photographers and may be inconspicuously carried by members of the bridal party during the wedding ceremony, photograph sessions, and other critical time periods during the wedding day. Means for preventing axial displacement of the enclosure along the handle of the bouquet holder are also described. In another embodiment, the bouquet holder itself is modified to retain those items of importance to the bridal party.

Abstract: A portable sign holding apparatus for use in single and double-hung windows generally comprising a central housing unit which includes horizontal mounting means for engaging the interior of window jambs, vertical mounting means for engaging the window sill and sash, and sign support means capable of suspending a sign in perpendicular relationship to the face of a building. In use, the horizontal and vertical mounting means engage the surfaces of windows of different sizes via telescopic adjustability to prevent lateral and vertical movement of the apparatus, respectively, within the window frame. Movement of the apparatus and support of the weight of the sign are further provided by a bracket disposed between the sign support means and the exterior wall surface of the building. In combination, the bracket, and vertical and horizontal mounting means provide a highly stable sign suspension device which may be quickly and easily installed without any screws or other invasive means.

Abstract: A photolytic and photocatalytic reaction enhancement device comprising a fluid permeable fixed-substrate material preferably constructed of either pure titanium or tungsten or their alloys that is oxidized or anodized to form a titanium dioxide or tungsten oxide layer, respectively, or a corrosion-resistant metal alloy that can be coated with a photocatalyst. The substrate may be a glass, polymeric or ceramic composition containing micropores, channels or conduits which receive oxidizing, reducing and/or pH agents and is more generally comprised of a length of mesh or cloth-like material which is folded in accordion-shaped fashion. A plurality of panels are created by the folding, each being adapted with at least one aperture for the slidable reception of the UV light source there through. The subject device may be removably installed within conventional and more novel, commercially available UV chambers without modification thereof or the use of invasive mounting means.

Abstract: An apparatus for the therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation of injured fingers is comprised of a backboard upon which the dorsal side of the patient's hand is rested, a strap to secure the hand to the baseboard and provide necessary leverage for exercises and an immobilization bar which is used to anchor the proximal or middle phalanges to the backboard thereby isolating the proximal and distal interphalangeal joints, respectively, and their corresponding muscles for therapeutic exercise. The subject invention is designed for rehabilitation of both the left and right hand and includes means for adaptation to hands of various shape and size.

Abstract: A waterproof integumentary enclosure for electronic equipment, especially cameras and video cameras, is comprised of a thin transparent skin or membrane which enables submerged use of the equipment, provides a barrier to damaging water and particulate matter and simultaneously permits uninhibited access to and operation of audio, video and infra-red components of the equipment. The apparatus is comprised of three primary components including the integument, a support platform upon which the equipment is secured, and two embodiments of a combination air extraction and membrane closure means. Air within the system is withdrawn either manually or mechanically causing the membrane to collapse around and closely conform to the equipment thereby forming the integumentary barrier. Optional lens adapters are also included to improve filming quality and prevent condensation which might occur upon exposure of the system to temperature differences between air and water.

Abstract: A waterproof integumentary enclosure for electronic equipment, especially video cameras, is comprised of a thin transparent skin or membrane which enables submerged use of the equipment, provides a barrier to damaging water and particulate matter and simultaneously permits uninhibited access to and operation of audio, video and infra-red components of the equipment. The apparatus is comprised of three primary components including the integument, a support platform upon which the equipment is secured, and a combination air extraction and membrane closure means. The latter is comprised generally of an elongated tubular shaft rotatably mounted to the support platform. In operation, the shaft is rotated about the platform causing the membrane within to twist and seal itself about the exterior walls of an air evacuation tube.