Abstract: A stationary dot matrix printer for printing both continuously variable and repetitive information on a moving substrate utilizing a readily replaceable ink applicator for applying ink to a blank foil adjacent to the printing station.

Abstract: A multi-speed friction drive suitable for propelling cycle vehicles comprises a drive frame attachable to the frame of the cycle, a drive motor mounted to the frame, a gear hub mounted to the drive frame and driven by the motor through a belt drive. A friction roller is formed on the outer shell of the gear hub, which is coupled to the belt drive through a shiftable gear arrangement internal to the gear hub. The cycle is propelled by frictional engagement of the roller with a cycle wheel.

Abstract: A multi-bag supporting stand useful for efficient sand bagging operations has a base, a vertical support extending from said base, and a dual bag holder frame slideable along the vertical support for adjusting the height of the bag support frame for differently dimensioned bags. In one embodiment, the dual bag holder is expandable to a quadruple bag holder by attachment of single bag holder modules. Both the dual and single bag holders are adjustable for different bag widths, and each includes bag supporting hooks from which bags may be hung.

Abstract: A method as disclosed for preventing the formation of Newton ring light patterns between a transparency or photographic negative and a transparent mounting surface such as a sheet of glass. The method comprises the application of a thin film of a substantially transparent resin to form a matte surface finish on the surface of the transparency to be applied against the mounting surface and then mounting the transparency or equivalent to the mounting surface with the resin film interposed therebetween, such that the matte resin film serves as a spacer and also reduces reflection of light between the transparency surface and the mounting surface.

Abstract: A high volume cryogen vaporizer includes a radiator where a working fluid draws heat from ambient air for vaporizing a cryogen in a heat exchanger. An electrical heater is provided for periodically heating the working fluid to defrost the radiator, thereby allowing sustained operation of the vaporizer. When not required for defrosting the radiator, the heater may be operated to heat a working fluid in a circuit separate from that of the radiator, and in which the heated working fluid is used for further elevating the temperature of the vaporized cryogen in a second heat exchanger, thereby making possible a gas output temperature higher than ambient air temperature.

Abstract: A removable support assembly for a collapsible golf bag of the type having an open top cuff, a closed bottom cuff and a pliable intermediate back portion connecting the two cuffs. The removable support assembly comprises a base slidable into the bottom cuff. The base is dimensioned and configured so as to be held within the bottom cuff against any substantial lateral displacement. The support assembly further comprises an upper brace removably attachable to the upper cuff of the golf bag, and a supporting shaft connected to the base at one end and to the upper brace at the opposite end for keeping the collapsible golf bag upright. The supporting shaft is threaded at one end to provide a means for adjusting the effective length of the supporting assembly and is spring loaded at the opposite end to keep the pliable intermediate portion of the bag in a taut wrinkle free condition.

Abstract: An assault rifle is converted from an original to a modified configuration having a remote trigger located forwardly of the magazine by mounting a remote forward trigger to the original rifle by means of a pair of shroud pieces which cradle the rifle's receiver, replacing the original removable trigger of the assault rifle with a replacement lever, providing a cam element movable within cam guides defined in the shroud pieces and connecting the cam element to the remote forward trigger so as to move the cam into engagement with the replacement lever upon actuation of the remote forward trigger. The parts required for conversion are readily detachable from the rifle to thereby return the weapon to its original configuration.

Abstract: An improved body board having a planar upper surface, a forward end and a pair of lateral edges is provided with a novel bow-shaped substantially rigid arcuate control member having two ends and a convex intermediate portion and is secured in fixed spaced relationship to the upper side of the body board. The bow-shaped grip spans the greater part of the width of the board between the lateral edges and is so oriented that the convex intermediate portion extends forwardly while the ends extend rearwardly. In a preferred embodiment, the rear ends terminate flush with the upper surface of the board and the arcuate handle slants upwardly from the upper surface of the board such that the grip of each hand on the handle may be continuously shifted along a substantial length of the handle to thereby obtain optimal leverage for effective steering of the board under shifting load and surf conditions.

Abstract: A hollow vessel of unglazed terra cotta pottery which, when moistened, keeps the temperature of a salad below room temperature when it is removed from the refrigerator to the dining table for comsumption. Leftover salad, even when impregnated with salad dressing, may be stored in this vessel in the refrigerator for several days, without losing either its crispness or its flavor.

Abstract: An improvement for a thermostatic control system of the type in which a heater having two electrical terminals is turned on when a conductive path is established between the two terminals and is turned off when the conductive path is opened, and in which first thermostat is used to open and close the conductive path. The improvement is a series combination of a remotely controlled electrical switch and a second thermostat, the series combination being connected to the heater terminals in parallel with the first thermostat. The second thermostat is normally set to a temperature greater than the temperature to which the first thermostat is set. The first thermostat controls the heater to standby temperature until a signal is applied to the remotely controlled electrical switch. Upon receipt of a predetermined signal, control is passed to the second thermostat which thereafter maintains a higher temperature.