Abstract: A paint color matching and coordinating system comprises an interface for receiving an input reference color, a processor capable of reading a memory, a memory including (1) instructions readable by the processor and (2) a database of architectural paint colors spanning all or most of the known color space, and a display generator. In use, the interface of the system receives an input reference color from a user. The processor selects a “reference paint color” from the database, the reference paint color being visually closer, with respect to color space, to the input reference color than any other paint color in the database. According to the invention, color space is divided into a plurality of fixed, generally equally sized, non-overlapping, contiguous portions, each color space portion being defined as the space of all colors within a band of hues within color space.

Abstract: Novel methods and devices for synthesizing ferrate and uses thereof are described. One aspect of the invention relates to synthesizing ferrate at a site proximal to the site of use, another aspect of the invention relates to devices and methods for synthesizing ferrate.

Abstract: The invention provides a lighter comprising a body and an end portion having a hinged connection with the body. The body includes a recess at its lower end. The end portion includes a cigar cutter, comprising an elongated generally tubular blade, extending from a surface of the end portion. The end portion is movable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the cutter extends within the recess and is not exposed. In the open position, the cutter does not extend into the recess. The lighter may also comprise a retainer comprising a leaf spring attached to the lower end of the body, and a slot within the end portion. In the closed position, the leaf spring is received within the slot, retaining the end portion in the closed position. Also, a lighter fuel inlet valve extends from the body and is within the recess thereof. The inlet valve is accessible through a channel in the end portion when the end portion is closed.

Abstract: A power-assisted wheelchair (1) having an electric motor (32), a potentiometer (27) as means for detecting human power applied to wheels (2), and a controller (31) as means for controlling the electric motor (32) according to the detected human power so as to set the time-attenuation rate of the assist power to be greater as the human power is smaller, and to be smaller as the human power is greater. Therefore, the coasting amount of the wheelchair (1) for small indoor movements for example is restricted to a small value. As a result, small indoor movements with a small turning radius are made possible, a sufficient coasting amount is secured for an outdoor running. Therefore, along with the possibility of a comfortable running on a level road, a steep uphill running is made easy, and the physical effort of the rider is alleviated.

Abstract: A number of embodiments of direct injected V-type outboard motors provided with a very effective fuel supply system wherein the number of components can be significantly reduced as well as the elimination of many of the flexible conduits normally employed. This also permits the fuel system to be assembled as a relatively unitary assembly that can be then affixed to the engine. The arrangement is such that purging of the system from vapors during shutdowns is easily accomplished and the system can be purged without complicated construction. Furthermore, the system can be pressure tested by an arrangement where the low pressure system can bypass the high pressure system when the engine is not operating so as to be pressurized for testing purposes.

Abstract: A gasoline engine power assisted pedal operated vehicle. The amount of assist provided by the engine is varied in response to variations in the manual force applied by the operator to the pedal mechanism. However, in order to provide smoother power assist, rapid changes in manual power application and, specifically, rapid reductions are dampened in the engine response. In addition, the system includes a disabling device for disabling the connection between the engine and the vehicle propulsion system if the vehicle brakes are actuated.