Abstract: A reusable and refoldable bag includes an integral locking mechanism that enables the bag to stay closed in a compact folded position (the folded position is about one-sixth to one-ninth of the original bag size compared to the bag when it is open and laid flat) when not in use and is easily opened when needed to carry contents. The integral locking mechanism includes a covering feature with a protected adhesive element and a flap with a mating adhesive element. In the folded position, the flap's adhesive element is placed under the covering feature and securely interlocks with the protected adhesive element. The locking mechanism can be disengaged and re-engaged for multiple reuses. The flap couples to a first side of the bag and extends outward from the bag. The covering feature couples to the first face adjacent to a top portion of the bag.

Abstract: A plurality of hollow tubular frame members interconnected by a single internal elastic retaining member that ensures each frame member aligns relative to each remaining frame member in a manner that only one arrangement of frame members is possible when assembled. To assemble, the frame members interconnect forming a three-dimensional frame suitable for supporting a bed cover. The frame members are held in tension by the internal retaining member. The frame members interlock via an insert device between adjacent frame members. The entire assembly interlocks and selectively decouples for disassembly. When disassembled, the entire assembly lies relatively flat, which enables a compact design suitable for packaging, transport or storage.

Abstract: A first proximity sensor array arranged on a first side of a stall-door comprises three linearly aligned sensors whereby left-to-right movement of a patron's hand within the sensing zone causes a bathroom stall door to open. A second proximity sensor array arranged on a second side of the stall door comprises three linearly aligned sensors whereby right-to-left movement of a patron's hand within the sensing zone causes the door to close. A second right-to-left movement across the same second sensor array causes the stall door to lock and a first display array arranged on the first side of the door and a second display array arranged on the second side of the door alight, indicating the stall is occupied and locked. A left-to-right movement across the second sensor array causes the stall door to unlock and open, and the display arrays indicate the stall is available.

Abstract: In one embodiment the present invention comprises a bar code scanner and an encoder for commissioning RFID transponders and includes a housing encasing a motor assembly, an RFID interrogator, a wireless communication means for transferring instructions and data from and to a remote host, on-board memory, a processor, and an antenna with corresponding mechanism to encode and verify a programmable RFID transponder. The present invention further includes novel methods for commissioning RFID transponders.

Abstract: A system for coloring hair includes a specialized brush having a narrow tapered end and an elongated handle portion and an opposite bristle head consisting of at least three bristle grouping. Each bristle grouping is separated by a gap. The bristle groupings align with corresponding channels on a color tray. The color tray consists of at least three parallel and elongated channels, each channel can retain a separate color chemical.

Abstract: A compact and foldable survival tool includes a firearm including a trigger and safety lever with many unique features including a compact and folding survival tool with an easy-to-manufacture top strap, a rack and pinion hammer actuator, dual lasers for distress signaling and target and ranging sighting, reconfigurable multiple tools, contained child-safety lock system, folding trigger with safety lever, cam hammer lock, floating firing pin, and cylinder pin assembly positive cylinder lock, for example.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention consists of a non-rigid, epigenetic-pneumopedic appliance comprising a wire-type framework supporting bow, bands, brackets or a clasp. The appliance includes active elements adapted to provide brief doses of cyclic forces to induce sutural osteogenesis. The active elements are vibrational, ultrasonic or oscillatory components. The epigenetic-pneumopedic appliance cooperates with an actuator or other expansion mechanism, such as suture spring, that straddles the midline of the appliance. The appliance further includes tooth-contacting material having high-elasticity, such as pre-formed alloys that form 3-D axial springs, which adapt to the long axis of the palatal/lingual surfaces of the teeth. The appliance also includes a plurality of micro-screws 2 along with driving means preferably consisting of either an electrical, ultrasonic (vibrational) meso-motor, or, alternatively, a micro-motor. The epigenetic-pneumopedic appliance may be used with directional bite props.

Abstract: In one preferred embodiment according to the present invention, an external fixation device for the foot and ankle of the human anatomical skeleton includes a yoke, three adjusters, and a base (or foot plate). The foot plate selectively couples to the yoke without the need of any tools, thereby enabling the patient to self attach and remove the foot plate from an existing circular fixation structure.

Abstract: The system provides an n-s rail bracket that both supports a plurality of solar panels structurally, provides view-guards to hide electrical components, and a water conduit to channel water shed from the solar panel to a desired collection point provided by the structure. As such, the system includes an n-s structural rail consisting of a bottom wall and two vertically extending sidewalls. An intermediate horizontal member extends between the two sidewalls at or near their midpoint to form a compartment between the intermediate horizontal member, a lower portion of the left sidewall, the bottom wall, and a lower portion of the right side wall. Also, the intermediate horizontal member cooperates with an upper portion of the left side wall and an upper portion of the right sidewall to form a U-shaped channel. Each distal end of the respective left and right side wall includes a T-shaped shoulder for supporting the solar module.

Abstract: A system of the present invention couples via a lanyard to a piece of luggage. The system includes a holder having three pockets. A first mask having a first shape and first color card inserts in the first pocket, a second mask and second color card inserts in the second pocket, and an identification card inserts into a third pocket. The system further includes extra color cards and extra masks to provide a traveler with many combinations of colors, patterns, shapes and sequences to identify their luggage.

Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a breast milk collection and storage device that contours to the natural form of a female human breast and consists of an outer layer, an inner layer and a sterile collection bag. Designed to fit under any standard brassiere, the device provides an opening to be comfortably worn around the nipple. The opening directs mild to the sterile collection bag and further provides a sealing means for coupling to a cap or other closure device when not being worn.

Abstract: The present invention includes novel systems and devices for commissioning wireless tags, RFID tags, and wireless sensors. The present invention benefits wireless sensors that are not directly part of a demand printed label. In one embodiment RFID tags or inlays are pre-loaded into cartridges prior to consumption and an encoder mechanism and corresponding antenna encodes and verifies the programmable RFID tags within the cartridges. This improvement adds significant convenience of loading RFID tags and enhances overall reliability of handling and applying the RFID tags. Accordingly, the present invention includes methods and devices that enable application and distribution of RFID tags in pre-loaded cartridges that are ready-to-use.

Abstract: An improved device for simultaneously unrolling geotextile fabric and dispensing an aggregate layer for road construction comprises a hanger bar coupled to a vehicle frame. The hanger bar supports a roller bar adapted to carry a fabric roll. A dragger couples the hanger bar and arranges to present a dead-weight member on top of the fabric. An improved method using the improved device drags the chain on top of the fabric as it unrolls, thus holding the fabric in place. At the same time, a conveyered aggregate delivery system dispenses gravel on top of the fabric.

Abstract: An improved deck cleaning tool includes a rigid blade with a sharply angled front end and adapted to dislodge debris build-up commonly found between planks of outdoor decks is supported by a plate having an aperture connected to a rigid and hollow conduit having a handle at its distal end. The distal end further adapts to couple to a common shop or wet/dry vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: A non-motorized waterfowl decoy device includes a recoil mechanism adapted for use in a front-facing position or a rear-facing position. The recoil mechanism includes a rotatable spindle having a long axis about four times greater than its diameter. The recoil mechanism further includes a elastic drive member adapted to slidably couple into a pair of corresponding slots on the spindle and engage a rear-support post having a u-shaped alignment channel. A pull cord attached to the spindle causes the spindle to rotate and coil the elastic drive member. Positioning the pull cord through a provided aperture on the rear guide-post enables reward-facing operation and, positioning the pull cord through a provided aperture on a front guide posts enables forward-facing operation.