Abstract: An improved float-actuated switching assembly, having a pusher (92) linked to a float (14), a movable carrier member (16), preferably a pivotable cam, having upper and lower brackets (78 and 80) between which the pusher moves, first and second stops (18 and 20) to limit carrier movement, a contact member (22) on the carrier positioned to contact the stops, and magnets (88 and 90) to releasably hold the contact against a stop as the pusher moves toward and applies initial force to one of the brackets. Increasing force caused by continuing float movement eventually breaks the magnetic force such that the carrier moves quickly to actuate a switch element (26) preferably through a cam follower (96).

Abstract: A bathtub drain having a fixed body at the tub overflow opening a rotational member extending through the fixed body and having a rear portion behind the fixed body, a non-axially positioned linkage attachment point on the rear portion of the rotational member, and a pair of contact surfaces on the fixed body and rotational member and biased together, with different engagement characteristics marking different rotational positions of the rotational member. In preferred embodiments, the contact surfaces are the rearward surface of the fixed body and the forward surface of the rotational member rear portion, and these surfaces preferably have a groove and mating ridge to mark the fully open and closed positions.

Abstract: An improved child-safe outlet cover including a main plate defining receptacle opening(s), a shield on the main plate for each opening having first and second portions, such shield movable between use and non-use positions in which the first and second portions, respectively, cover the receptacle openings, the first portion having prong openings aligned with the receptacle slots in the use position, and means biasing the shield to the non-use position. Preferred embodiments include locking pins and a number of structural variations providing important advantages.

Abstract: An improved double disk scraper assembly having a pivot post projecting rearwardly from the principal vertical support, a first scraper with a first pivot end on the post and a second scraper with a second pivot end on the first pivot end. The first and second pivot ends are preferably sleeved members. The scrapers are each engaged with a disk under the direct force of a biasing means, preferably a coil spring, between them. The pivot independently within a limited range which serves to keep the biasing means in place. A seed tube passes vertically between the scrapers for seed deposition at a forward position.

Abstract: An improved bit-like device for proper removal of spot weld interconnections of upper and lower flat members, such as in sheet metal operations. The device includes an outer member sleeved over a bit shank, rotational and slidable connection structure between the outer member and the shank, a spring biasing the outer member to a non-work position, and stop members, preferably adjustable, to limit the relative axial movement of the outer member with respect to the shank and thereby limit the depth of metal removal.

Abstract: An improved subdural strip electrode for determining epileptogenic foci. The strip has a long gradually tapered proximal end portion terminating in a narrow tip from which lead wires extend, allowing withdrawal of the strip electrode without substantial incision. The strip width and thickness are much less than in prior subdural strip electrodes, and the strip may be withdrawn after extended implantation without the need for general surgery. One preferred embodiment includes a reinforced central region along the strip.

Abstract: An improved clipper and oscillating drive lever for engaging a slot in the movable cutter of a clipper. The distal end of the lever has two resilient prongs biased to a first spread greater than the dimension of the slot such that the prongs must be squeezed together to engage the slot. Some preferred embodiments include inwardly-turned tips. Reduced noise and improved cutting efficiency are provided.

Abstract: An improved radiation-emitting device of the type for containing a gas and electron flow therein between electrodes. First and second separate elongated principal members form an elongated envelope volume having constant cross-sections along its length. The members are arranged and configured so that the envelope volume is less than that of a cylinder of similar cross-demension. The first principal member is radiation-transmissive and the second is preferably radiation-reflective, having a metallic inner coating. Plural electrodes are preferably used. The second principal member is preferably inwardly-concave. One preferred embodiment has a first principal member which is outwardly concave and preferably has a high gas pressure. Another has an outwardly convex first principal member. Another has concentric inner and outer tubes as radiation-transmissive and radiation-reflective members, respectively, the inner tube serving as a flow path for a liquid to be treated.

Abstract: An improved device for applying intersegmental traction therapy to the cervical spine, including an array of alternating lifting and intervening rollers dimensioned and positioned on the array such that when a lifting roller is centered on a patient's cervical spine, it is the only roller in supporting contact with the patient's neck, while when one of the intervening rollers is centered on the patient's cervical spine, lifting rollers on either side thereof are in supporting contact with the patient's neck. The lifting rollers are preferably soft and resilient.

Abstract: An improved tractor axle oscillation limiter of the type projecting upwardly on the axle structure to engage a fixed bolster on the tractor. The device includes a base having a first top abutment surface, and a mounted member securable to the base in working position with a second top abutment surface positioned above the first. The mounted member is preferably also securable to the base in a storage position.

Abstract: A portable device for modeling of vehicle graphics having two flat opposite side panels each forming a side profile of the vehicle, at least two flat cross panels extending between the side panels and including front and back panels forming front and back profiles of the vehicle, respectively, hinged interconnections of the cross panels to the side panels such that the structure is erectable to a three-dimensional vehicle model and collapsible to a flat stack, and provision for replaceable attachment of graphics-bearing sheets on the panels. Preferred embodiments include a foldable enclosure dimensioned when folded to receive the collapsed flat stack and when unfolded to serve as a display mount.

Abstract: A fuel-intake device for automatic bottom fueling. The device includes spaced inner and outer barrier walls with edge portions joined together, first and second aligned openings in the barrier walls, and a standpipe having a proximal end secured to the inner wall about the second opening and a distal end having a fuel outlet spaced from the inner wall. Two annular seals preferably allow a conical nozzle to sealingly engage both barrier walls. Other preferred embodiments relate to barrier wall, seal, and standpipe configurations, fuel and vapor pressure relief valves, entry doors and a protective cover.

Abstract: A tractor dual wheel remover for loosening the dual wheel rim extension from telescoping frictional engagement with the rim of the adjacent main wheel after removal of connecting links between main-wheel eyelet members and aligned dual-wheel apertures. The device includes a rigid elongate member with a main-wheel end non-rotatably receiving one of the eyelets and a threaded shaft at the opposite end receivable through the corresponding dual-wheel aperture, and nut means on the shaft for off-center spreading to loosen the dual wheel.

Abstract: A cut-off floodlight of the type having a straight light line, a reflector surface in a housing, and a light-emitting opening, and characterized by a reflector surface with a major portion parallel to the light line including a parabolic section on one side of the light line with its focus at and its vertex behind and to said one side of the light line to establish a main beam direction at an acute angle to the opening plane, and an opposite section on the other side of the light line to reflect light therefrom past the light line onto the parabolic section so its secondary reflection off the parabolic section will be close to the main beam direction.

Abstract: A device for grade leveling having a lower member with a flat bottom surface terminating in an upwardly-beveled leading edge, upright members secured above the lower member, and first and second pivot-mounts on the uprights. One of said first and second pivot-mounts defines a fixed pivot axis on the uprights and the other defines a pivot location which is variable along an arc centered around said fixed pivot axis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for ready replacement of a noncreeper subassembly in a tractor transmission with a creeper subassembly. The method includes subassembly removal and replacement through a window. Removal is by opening the window, reaching in to move, along a subassembly main shaft, a collar which joins the main shaft to a shuttle shaft and in so doing opening a void between the shafts, and then using the void to advantage to manipulate the subassembly out the window. Replacement reverses the same steps. The collar on the creeper subassembly has means for seating a bearing.

Abstract: A brush for underwater cleaning of swimming pool edges and corners having a convex cylindrical bristle-mounting surface, bristles extending therefrom with distal ends which form a second convex cylindrical surface, and means for attachment of an elongated handle member. Preferred embodiments relate to certain curvature characteristics of the bristle and bristle-mounting surfaces, the 90- or near 90-degree arc of such surfaces, characteristics relating to suction through the brush member for removal of loosened dirt, and the rigidity of brush member, all of which serve to provide good cleaning of underwater edges and corners of varying profiles.

Abstract: An easily removable tubular shield assembly for shielding a drive shaft extending to the front wheels of a work vehicle, such as a tractor. The shield assembly has a plurality of telescoping tubular members forming a continuous tube, and one or more removable devices to lock the tubular members into fixed relative axial positions. The tubular shield can be shortened to expose the ends of the drive shaft and facilitate complete or partial removal of the drive shaft.

Abstract: A thermoformed plastic package made of a single piece of formed plastic sheeting folded upon itself along a hinge band. The back and front sections form an enclosure, preferably for a tape roll, and have contacting portions which include flat areas and interlocked undercut mating areas which extend from a first position near the hinge around the enclosure to a second position near the hinge, and preferably along the hinge as well. The hinge band preferably includes a center portion narrower than the total width of two side portions therealong, and serves to draw the face-to-face sections of the package together along the hinge. A tape channel extending from the enclosure provides frictional engagement tape being dispensed.

Abstract: An improved clipper and improved cutter head attachment device of the type having a pair of mating members including a substantially flat male member and a female slot. One of the mating members has at least one resilient offset portion which must be squeezed into engagement against the other of the mating members when the cutter head is engaged with the main clipper body. This provides gap-free engagement which reduces noise and improves cutting performance.