Abstract: An integral massaging means within heel and sole portions within footwear is herein disclosed. The footwear resembles a conventional pair of shoes or sandals with a soft upper area and cushioned soles; however, the sole area is slightly thicker than normal to accommodate a battery pack and a series of vibrating motors across the sole, thereby producing a massaging effect. The duration and intensity of the vibrating motors may be controlled using external control switches and may be activated by pressing an ON/OFF button or by using a remote controller. The massaging apparatus may be activated whether a wearer is sitting down, lying down, or standing upright. User replaceable batteries are provided and accessed through a door located on the bottom of the footwear.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus that allows for the connection of a pair of bass drum pedals to a single controller further comprises an electronic circuit housed within an enclosure and provided with two (2) input jacks to allow connection of two (2) standard bass drum pedals from the drum controller used in the video game ROCK BAND® (video game). An output cable is then provided for connection to the drum controller. The electronic circuit accepts the switch closure connections from either pedal and uses an array of electronic components to drive a relay which produces a contact closure. This contact closure is then used to feed the controller. The electronic circuit eliminates the collision and cancellation effects associated with simply combining the pedal closures in parallel. In such a manner, a videogame player can generate a greater number of bass drum pedal actuations in a given period of time by using both feet.

Abstract: A portable area heating apparatus that utilizes a heat lamp for the heat source and a rear-situated fan to disperse the heated air is herein disclosed. The apparatus is intended for use in spot heating applications such as garages, workshops, and similar locations and is suitable for mounting on a floor or wall by use of a multi-functional bracket assembly. Since the heat lamp also produces a certain amount of light, the apparatus may also be used as a light source. The apparatus could also be mounted within an existing ductwork system to supplement a conventional central heating system in areas where extra heat is needed.

Abstract: An electric trimmer attachment for lawn tractors comprises an attachable apparatus for use with existing lawn tractors which provides trimmer capabilities. The apparatus comprises a mounting bracket, an arm, and a line trimmer. The mounting bracket provides a means for removably securing the device to a deck of an existing mower. The arm comprises a gooseneck arm attached to the bracket, which extends outwards. An outside end portion of the arm comprises a line trimmer with an electric motor and features such as automatic line advancement and safety controls. The motor is powered via a converter or battery pack on the mower. The arm provides an arc-shaped rotating motion to the trimmer.

Abstract: A water faucet providing a digital temperature readout indicating the temperature of the water exiting the faucet is herein disclosed. The faucet provides a switch to change the display between Fahrenheit and Celsius and is powered by a small integral solar cell and an internal battery for periods of low ambient light. The display and corresponding circuitry is mounted inside of a waterproof enclosure which is removably mounted to the faucet spout by locking fasteners. The display is removable and allows for replacement or maintenance should it malfunction or break. During use, an internal thermocouple senses a change in temperature to activate the apparatus, thereby conserving energy. Such features are ideal for measuring the temperature of water used to wash hands or dishes to ensure compliance with health department requirements.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of use for making a decorative bow is herein disclosed, comprising a removable lance used to retain a length of bow making material about a central location. The lance prevents each winded loop from coming apart during the bow making process. The apparatus is provided with a plurality of pairs of removable support rods, each pair having different lengths to accommodate varying widths of bow making material. In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus provides guide indicia to indicate suggested bow making directions and a support rod to hold a spool of bow making material during manufacture. A non-slip covering is provided thereon the base to prevent the apparatus from moving during use.

Abstract: A system and method by which new or recycled paper is rolled and assembled to form artwork is herein disclosed. The art form comprises a plurality of pre-rolled or flat pieces of paper that are rolled and formed into tubes. These tubes are then taped to hold them together, and if desired, folded inwardly at end portions for aesthetic purposes. Next, the tubes are arranged in a two-layer matrix forming an initial panel and secured using plastic wire ties. The panels are then layered and joined using the wire ties to form various finished designs. When completed, the art assembly comprises various abstract pieces of art being flat, non-flat, three-dimensional, or the like, that can be hung on a wall, stood upon a floor, or suspended from a ceiling. It is envisioned that the art form may be provided using recycled paper from catalogues and magazines to provide lively colors and brightly colored pattern that is also ecologically friendly.

Abstract: An electronic insect electrocution device with an integral display and counting means that displays the number of discharges, or “zapped” insects is herein disclosed. The device comprises a lamp enclosed within an enclosure comprising series of alternating grids energized by a voltage increasing device, which electrocutes any insects that fly towards the lamp. A numeric digital display is provided on the top of the enclosure and reflects the current number of discharges or killed insects. The counter is provided with an input signal that detects the voltage fluctuation of the grid every time an insect is killed. This detection circuit drives a counting circuit which interfaces with the counter. It is reset every time the unit is unplugged.

Abstract: An athletic glove with an integral weight system is herein disclosed, comprising a plurality of pockets on the back of the glove which holds either sand or metal shot to add weight. The amount of weight will vary per glove model, but is envisioned to be approximately three (3) to five (5) pounds per glove, depending on user preference. The glove is secured around a wrist during use by a hook-and-loop fastener. The glove with the integral weight system is intended to strengthen the hand, arm and upper body areas during workouts, exercise or everyday activities. The glove is expected to be introduced in both right-hand and left-hand configurations and to be presented as a pair.

Abstract: An apparatus that provides backup electrical power for a forced air furnace system is herein disclosed, comprising a set of thermal chips which produce electric power directly from the burner area. This electric power is then used to charge a deep cell battery which is then used to power the control circuitry of the furnace as well as the fan motor in the event of a power failure. A relay to switch between battery operation and conventional AC power is provided on the incoming AC power line. Such changeover between AC operation and battery operation is fully automatic and requires no user action. When commercial AC power returns the apparatus switches back to conventional power distribution. Due to the electric producing power capability of the thermal chips it is envisioned that the apparatus could operate continuously for days on end without the use of AC power.

Abstract: A portable multiple form organizer comprises a writing panel capable of supporting and securing multiple sheets of paper in a side-by-side format. A plurality of clips is spaced across a long edge of a front surface of the writing panel with suitable space between to fit a standard full sheet of paper. A mounting mechanism comprising a plurality of hooks permanently affixed to a rear surface of the writing panel allows the organizer to suspend from a support surface. A pair of arms attached to a bottom rear surface of the writing panel provides a standoff for the writing panel away from the vertical support surface, such that the writing panel is not perpendicular to the ground allowing a user to comfortably use the device.

Abstract: A pivoting device for use with a manual conduit bender comprises an attachable foot portion with a non-slip rubber bottom layer and a pivoting center axle insertingly received into a bottom end of a conduit bender handle. The device is placed on the ground or other supporting surface and provides stability and improved leverage while a conduit is bent in the conduit bender.

Abstract: A dual-ended illumination device that is fastened to a user's wrist is herein disclosed, comprising a small cylindrical flashlight having a first end with at least three (3) white light-emitting diodes (LED's) and a second end having at least one (1) red LED. A four position switch located at a midpoint on a housing provides for OFF-WHITE-RED-BOTH positions. The flashlight attaches to one's wrist by use of a nylon strap secured with a fastening means. It is positioned on either the inside or outside of the wrist to suit a desired illumination need. An inside position would be used when reading a book, or performing physical tasks. The outside position would be used when riding or bike or walking, with perhaps all lamps illuminated to serve as a warning light to others. The device is viewed as being especially valuable in areas where it is impossible to hold a flashlight or have others hold one while performing work with both hands.

Abstract: A device aid in the retention and transportation of small oxygen bottles worn by a user during use is herein disclosed, comprising a somewhat larger and cylindrical holster to hold a type “B” oxygen canister which is approximately twelve (12) inches long and three (3) inches in diameter. The device uses a formed shoulder strap available in two different models for specific right or left hand use. The formed radius of the strap forces the strap up onto the shoulder and makes the device conform securely to the user. A retention strap that goes under the opposite arm also aids in this retention. The device can be worn while sitting, walking, standing or performing most normal activities.

Abstract: An apparatus that provides automatic mixing and distribution of granular or liquid fertilizers through an underground or portable sprinkler system, comprising a mixing container connected in-line with the sprinkler system's water delivery line or a regular garden hose connected to a portable or movable sprinkler, is herein disclosed. This mixing container provides a large lower portion which is accessed through a sealed and latched cover portion, through which granular-based lawn care chemicals are added. Incoming water then dissolves and mixes the chemicals, passes through removable filter media and exits the apparatus. This outgoing water is then routed to an underground sprinkler system or a portable hose-based sprinkler. A bottom valve can be opened to drain the apparatus and allow for cleaning. Additionally, the apparatus comprises an integral liquid fertilizer receptacle to automatically mix the incoming water with various liquid lawn care chemicals.