Abstract: A device provides positive reinforcement and treats for a domesticated animal urinating in a predetermined location. The positive reinforcement includes a message from the owner. A treat is exposed after the owner's message is played to further reward the animal. Absorbent paper is used at the predetermined location for collecting the urine and activating the voice and treat bowl. After a preset time, the used absorbent paper is removed and new absorbent paper is provided automatically. Another version includes a device that uses a single sheet of absorbent paper.

Abstract: A multi-fiber ferrule and optical fibers therein make easier contact with other multi-fiber ferrules and connectors with a small fiber tip radius and a modulus of elasticity. A method for qualifying multi-fiber ferrules (and connectors) is also disclosed.

Abstract: A power plant for a jet-type model airplanes and UAVs includes an electric motor and a cover. The cover receives a portion of the electric motor and a sleeve into which the electric motor is inserted. The sleeve has a plurality of fins to dissipate heat and create openings into the cover. Air from the fan rotor passes through the openings to cool an electronic speed control member and exits a rear opening in the cover. The cover may also have additional openings for air to enter into the cover.

Abstract: A method for text prediction for cell phone text messaging or for other applications. The preferred embodiment for predictive text involves the use of weighted positional digrams and a partial word dataset as well as optional elements involving three different types of voice recognition. Alternative embodiments involve the use of trigrams and quadgrams. The use of this text prediction system for a crossword game application is also described.

Abstract: An umbrella assembly and various embodiments of hub assemblies which provide an umbrellas assembly which is easy to install or remove, is extremely rigid, and is capable of withstanding high wind gusts and other high external forces. A first hub assembly includes a mounting bracket having extended regions for mounting to a hub. A second hub assembly includes securing rings for securely binding mounting brackets to a hub. A third hub assembly includes a mortise-tenon mounting bracket. A fourth hub assembly includes securing rings for securely binding mortise-tenon mounting brackets to a hub. A rib center joint connector having stops is presented. A rotatable fabric connector having a plurality of curved surfaces on the head of the fabric connector is present.

Abstract: An adapter for holding two multi-fiber ferrules in positions to mate with one another includes a main body, a opening extending through the main body configured to receive and optically and mechanically mate the two multi-fiber ferrules. Engagement members, which preferably rotate about an axis transverse to the opening, is disposed adjacent the opening on each side of the adapter to engage and hold the multi-fiber ferrules in the adapter.

Abstract: A device provides positive reinforcement and treats for a domesticated animal urinating in a predetermined location. The positive reinforcement includes a message from the owner. A treat is exposed after the owner's message is played to further reward the animal. Absorbent paper is used at the predetermined location for collecting the urine and activating the voice and treat bowl. After a preset time, the used absorbent paper is removed and new absorbent paper is provided automatically. Another version includes a device that uses a single sheet of absorbent paper.

Abstract: A field-installable multi-fiber ferrule has two portions and one portion has optical fibers already secured therein. The second portion receives optical fibers to mate with the secured optical fibers. A tool is provided to assist in inserting the optical fibers into the multi-fiber ferrule by aligning and holding the optical fibers while they are secured in the multi-fiber ferrule.

Abstract: A field-installable multi-fiber ferrule has two portions and one portion has optical fibers already secured therein. The second portion receives optical fibers to mate with the secured optical fibers. A tool is provided to assist in inserting the optical fibers into the multi-fiber ferrule by aligning and holding the optical fibers while they are secured in the multi-fiber ferrule.

Abstract: A power plant for a jet-type model airplanes and UAVs includes an electric motor and a cover. The cover receives a portion of the electric motor and a sleeve into which the electric motor is inserted. The sleeve has a plurality of fins to dissipate heat and create openings into the cover. Air from the fan rotor passes through the openings to cool an electronic speed control member and exits a rear opening in the cover. The cover may also have additional openings for air to enter into the cover.

Abstract: An adapter with a dust shutter also provides eye protection and an even seal around the connector opening. The adapter includes a main body, a cover, and a resilient member to bias the cover in a closed position. The adapter also includes a flexible member to assist in sealing the adapter. The resilient member contacts the cover in a center portion and the cover floats relative to the main body to ensure a good seal.

Abstract: An adapter for holding a multi-fiber ferrule in position to mate with a fiber optic connector includes an adapter body having a first side and a second side, with a first opening disposed in the first side that is configured to receive the multi-fiber ferrule. A second opening is disposed in the second side of the adapter end is configured to receive a fiber optic connector. An engagement member, which preferably rotates about an axis transverse to the opening, is disposed adjacent the first opening to engage and hold the multi-fiber ferrule in the adapter.

Abstract: A transition assembly is provided that has a base with two sides and a plurality of optical fibers attached to each of the two sides. The optical fibers are attached to the base, with a protective covering over the optical fibers. The optical fibers are in a ribbonized format at one end of the transition assembly and in an individual format at the other end. The individual optical fibers may have protective tubes disposed thereon for protection.

Abstract: A protective garment is disclosed that is used in sporting games to protect the wearer from projectiles fired by the other participants. The garment may be of a unitary construction or have a plurality of components. Additionally, the garment may only cover selected portions of the wearer's body, to protect those areas needing protection. The padding used to protect the wearer may be removed or enhanced by the wearer before, during, and after the games. The garment also includes a number of vents to allow body heat to escape and securing elements to minimize the risk of the garment catching on bush and brush.

Abstract: A dust cap for an optical ferrule is provided that has a sleeve with a first end and second end, the second end having at least one depression configured to engage a portion of the end face of an optical ferrule. The dust cap prevents dirt and debris from contaminating the front face of the optical ferrule if the optical ferrule has open guide pin holes.

Abstract: A protective platform is disclosed that includes a panel that moves from a first position to a second position. In the second position, the protective platform may protect swimmers from the rotating propeller of the boat and provides a way for swimmers to enter and/or exit the boat. The protective platform may also cover the swim platform in its entirety.