Abstract: An improved means for dispensing powder and shaping/scuffing the tip of a billiard cue, for use during a game of billiards, is herein disclosed. The design of the compact, substantially cylindrical device incorporates the combination of portability, functionality, user discretion, and neatness/convenience of use lacking in the prior art. The device provides a simple, yet reliable means of dispensing small, easily controlled amounts of powder onto the hands of billiard players via the use of a ball and spring assembly. The device allows the user to dispense/apply the powder by (1) compressing the assembly and “rolling” the powder, or (2) “tapping” the ball and spring assembly on the appropriate area of the hand(s). The present invention is a device that also includes a shaping/scuffing tool, on the end opposite the ball and spring assembly, that allows an individual to manicure the tip of a billiard cue.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for combining multiple viscous fluids in which a desired, predetermined mixture ratio is automatically maintained by at least one system microcontroller. The microcontroller processes critical data relating to a primary fluid throughout a pumping and dispensing procedure, and automatically adjusts all additional flows based on changes to the primary fluid flow rate, temperature, pressure, viscosity, and pump characteristics by adjusting the speed of the motors driving pumps for all other fluids.

Abstract: A modular universal work evaluation apparatus to give therapists the ability to measure job task performance in the context of a variety of specific jobs or tasks. The invention generally comprises a main bench unit forming a walled semi-enclosure with a removable top, one or more simulated work evaluation stations enclosed within the main bench unit, and one or more work evaluation stations attachable to the main bench unit. All simulated work evaluation stations include a plurality of workable components for simulating specific job related tasks performed by the patient at work. The internal work evaluation stations include one or both of a simulated shoveling pit and/or a simulated engine block accessible by removing the removable top.

Abstract: Simple and economical embodiments of a drip-stop resistance assembly for caulking guns incorporating a resistance clip, or alternatively, an elastic grommet or constricted spring. The drip-stop assembly may be used with various manually-operated caulking guns including those with metal enclosures and single piece molded plastic open frames, and with various types of plunger shafts including those with a circular or hexagonal cross-section, or ratchet teeth. The drip-stop assembly includes a resistance clip formed of resilient steel wire or the like, and bent or cast in the form of an annular yoke for encircling the plunger shaft and providing frictional resistance against sliding. The resistance clip may be inserted onto the plunger shaft (from above or below the housing) at various positions along the shaft. A back-plate formed by a conventional washer, or angle-bracket is inserted on the plunger shaft and is spaced from the resistance clip for allowing the latter to frictionally slide a short distance.

Abstract: An artist's drawing device for maintaining a constant three-dimensional perspective while rendering a subject or object. The drawing device includes a first visually-defined perimeter of a planar geometric figure having a first size, a second visually-defined perimeter of a planar geometric figure having proportionate dimensions but a larger overall size than the first planar figure, and means for seeing the first and second planar geometric perimeters in a concentric spaced relation along the artist's line of sight, the smaller geometric perimeter being closer to the artist. The artist secures the device in position for viewing a subject or object therethrough such that the perimeter of the second geometric figure is eclipsed from sight by the perimeter of the first geometric figure. This fixes the artist's perspective on said subject/object in all of three dimensions, and any deviation from said fixed perspective becomes immediately apparent when the state of eclipse is lost.

Abstract: A system for fast, efficient assembly of mechanical component support infrastructures based on a set of interlocking rods and/or tubes and supporting blocks, each block supporting at least two rods/tubes in a precision configuration. The blocks and rods are formed in a particular relative size and shape to allow them to be assembled quickly and easily into a wide variety of configurations, all capable of providing a highly stable and precision infrastructure for supporting equipment in lab and bench setups.

Abstract: Simple and economical drive mechanism controls for incorporation in a manually operated caulking gun. The controls include various restraint springs and reeds to afford the caulk gun user the option of releasing pressure (to avoid drips) or not upon full release of the trigger, and a resistance clip to provide some restraint against the plunger shaft inadvertently sliding backward when the trigger is fully released and pressure is removed in the dripless drive context.

Abstract: A fully automatic personal security system which combines the advantages of worldwide LORAN-C or GPS navigation with the substantially worldwide communication capabilities of a cellular telephone or communication satellite. The security system comprises a mobile unit which communicates emergency data including position coordinates, and a central dispatch station which receives the emergency data and accurately displays all necessary emergency information superposed on a digitized map at a position corresponding to the location of the mobile unit.