Abstract: An apparatus for lifting a cover from a spa or other housing includes a frame member having one end that is pivotally attached to the exterior of the housing. Another end of the frame member is pivotally attached to the cover. A motor is likewise attached to the exterior of the housing and is pivotally coupled to the frame member. The motor causes the frame member to rotate thereby lifting the cover off of the housing.

Abstract: A merchandising system which comprises a display panel dimensioned to cover at least a portion of a slot wall. The display panel includes a forward facing surface having coupled thereto a plurality of receptacles, each of the plurality of receptacles being adapted to receive a support arm of sufficient structural integrity to maintain at least one item of merchandise suspended therefrom; a top edge having coupled to at least a portion thereof, at least one bracket dimensioned to engage a slot provided in the slot wall and configured to maintain the display panel in a generally parallel orientation to the slot wall when the at least one item of merchandise is displayed thereon; and a plurality of support arms, each of the plurality of support arms being adapted to couple to at least one of the plurality of receptacles and descriptive signage affixed to the forward facing surface.

Abstract: An avian guard apparatus for protection of high voltage transmission equipment which comprises a generally rectangular frame of tubular construction dimensioned to longitudinally and laterally span a portion of a horizontally oriented cross bridge of a high voltage transmission tower superjacent to a high voltage insulator suspended from the cross bridge. The frame is generally rectangular frame in shape and includes a shade cloth mesh disposed over the generally rectangular frame. The mesh includes a pair of pockets longitudinally disposed at both ends of the mesh. Each of the pockets is dimensioned so as to laterally encompass each end of the generally rectangular frame. The avian guard may include a plurality of longitudinally interspersed flaps for attaching the avian guard to the cross bridge. Alternate mechanisms for attaching the avian guard to the cross bridge are also disclosed.

Abstract: This invention discloses a storage vessel, namely a wine bottle having a liquid volumetric capacity of from about 750 milliliters to about 1,500 milliliters and including an integral pedestal base configured to fit typical glassware fixtures employed in restaurants and taverns. The stem and base portions of the pedestal may be solid or hollow. A hollow pedestal may be advantageous to capture sediments settling out of the wine when the bottle is in an upright position. Pigments may be included in the glass construction to minimize photochemical reactions with the wine contained within the bottle.

Abstract: A hinged protective cover for protecting a door threshold during construction or modification of a building or its contents. The cover is attached to a horizontal surface such as a building floor and covers the door threshold to prevent damage from foot traffic, contaminants and grit materials which may become lodged in the threshold. The hinge allows positioning of the protective cover to permit door closure while remaining attached to the floor. This leaves the cover in place for repositioning to the protecting position when the door is reopened and serves as an affirmative reminder to accomplish same.

Abstract: A plant-on is disclosed that saves labor and material cost in producing a raised belly band decorative relief for a masonry building. The plant-on reduces labor costs as it may be applied to the structure by a single person. It is designed for direct application of the masonry materials such as stucco to the plant-on, without requiring waterproofing, providing further labor cost saving. It is also economical in the use of masonry materials to plant-on the band by limiting the volume available, and it may be customized to provide a variety of profiles. The plant-on is constructed of composite or polymeric materials which resists water damage and wood destroying insect pests.

Abstract: A ratchet wrench for turning threaded fasteners, particularly fasteners threaded on a stud or pipe located in areas of limited or obstructed access to the fastener. The wrench is operated remotely at an end of the wrench away from a fastener engagement portion. The wrench includes a side mounted actuator assembly which allows a moveable jaw to open and close around the fastener. A closing bias force is maintained on the movable upper jaw by a spring included in the actuator assembly. The closing bias force allows a fastener to be held in position for rotation and when exceeded, allows the movable upper jaw to ratchet around the fastener. The engagement portion of the wrench may be configured with either a hexagonal or dodecahedral shaped opening. When operatively engaged with the fastener, the wrench fully encompasses the fastener to limit slippage.

Abstract: This invention provides inflatable three-dimensional humanoid figures for use in background scenes associated with still photography, motion pictures and video productions which are low in cost, lightweight, easy to use, easy to store, easy to transport and provides a greater range of viewing angles. It is also envisioned that this invention can be used for corporate conventions requiring the illusion of a large number of participants, in advertising and other functions where the illusion of large numbers of people enhance the overall objective of the functions.

Abstract: A self-clamping Christmas tree stand provides a stable platform for a Christmas tree that allows simple installation and adjustment of the tree angle without having to be positioned under the tree to perform the adjustments. The tree stand uses the weight of the tree to firmly clamp the tree's trunk. A clamping mechanism provides a constant grip that will not loosen unless an upward force is provided by the user. The adjustment range of the tree trunk angle with respect to the vertical plane may be varied to accommodate tree trunks of different shapes. Lastly, the tree stand includes a large liquid reservoir to maintain the tree's moisture content.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for using one or more inflatable three-dimensional humanoid figures for use in background scenes associated with still photography, motion pictures and video productions which are low in cost, lightweight, easy to use, easy to store, easy to transport and provides a greater range of viewing angles. It is also envisioned that this invention can be used for corporate conventions requiring the illusion of a large number of participants, in advertising and other functions where the illusion of large numbers of people enhance the overall objective of the functions.