Abstract: An improved design for the thumb key assembly for flutes and piccolos. This design allows for longer tubing to be used in the assembly without requiring a larger space, resulting in a mechanism that is less prone to wear. The design also locates the thumb key and thumb lever further away from the "A" kicker tail, allowing for a more stable, standard sized kicker to be used. Additionally, the design also reduces the likelihood that a player will inadvertently depress the thumb lever when intending only to depress the thumb key. Finally, this design also provides a common configuration which can be adapted to both flutes and piccolos with the only change necessary being one of size.

Abstract: A modification to atmospheric dye machines, in which the modification increases the attainable operating temperatures to a level in which polyester textiles can be successfully dyed. The modification is accomplished by relocating steam injection to a location which takes advantage of venturi principles and harnesses the slight pressurization obtained by injecting steam into the liquor. The combination increases circulation of dye liquor, convective heat transfer and minimizes the formation of isothermal layering of the dye liquor. Dye liquor subject to reheating is drawn from the tank bottom, further decreasing the amounts of cooler dye liquor which may still collect within the tank.

Abstract: A combination archery bow stabilizer and string tracker mounting adaptor having a telescopic capability to raise or lower the string tracker. Used in conjunction with a 360 degree rotatable arm to which the string tracker is mounted, minimization of the noise created by slack string tightening upon launching an arrow is possible. The adaptor and rotable arm are capable of adjustment for the needs of the individual archer or archery bow to which it is mounted.

Abstract: A tamper resistant device designed to be fitted into the blind hole of a standard VHS videocassette tape in such a manner as to prevent use/loading of the cassette. The device consists of a cylindrical body, pawl, cross pin, spring and a key for removal of the device. This device provides much more security than the current state of the art. Contents of the videocassette can neither be damaged by recording over existing program(s) nor can they be viewed, as insertion of the cassette into a player/recorder is prevented by the device. Furthermore, the device is designed to be compatible with all existing sleeves or covers used for storage. The device can be easily engaged without use of the key. Also, the device cannot be removed until the pawl neutral position is maintained while the device is being removed. Both the pawl and key hole design serve as tamper resistant components. Until the pawl's neutral postion is achieved, either of two locking surfaces engage an under cut built into the videocassette.

Abstract: A modification to atmospheric dye machines, in which the modification increases the attainable operating temperatures to a level in which polyester textiles can be successfully dyed. The modification is accomplished by relocating steam injection to a location which takes advantage of venturi principles and harnesses the slight pressurization obtained by injecting steam into the liquor. The combination increases circulation of dye liquor, convective heat transfer and minimizes the formation of isothermal layering of the dye liquor. Dye liquor subject to reheating is drawn from the tank bottom, further decreasing the amounts of cooler dye liquor which may still collect within the tank.

Abstract: The purpose of this invention is to provide a consumer with an inexpensive and reliable device for controlling ethylene gas for plantstuffs. The device is a sealed, air tight package which contains a gas permeable envelope containing ethylene absorbing chemicals. A consumer peels a seal off of the airtight packaging thereby allowing the chemical reagents to be exposed to the atmosphere within the container in which the ethylene producer is situated. Only upon initial activation by the consumer does the reaction take place. The system is simple, reliable, inexpensive and disposable.

Abstract: An adjustable and extendible secondary sun visor which is attachable to the pre-existing sun visor of a vehicle. The secondary sun visor is releasably attached to a pre-existing sun visor by a clip. The secondary visor is connected to the clip by a movable arm which allows for motion and rotation in four different positions, and which allows the user thereof to place the secondary visor in any desired position along the windshield of a vehicle. The secondary visor further allows the user to extend the area of protection by a slide. When in a stored position, secondary visor is located underneath a pre-existing visor, which allows for easy and convenient placement during non-use.

Abstract: A device designed to replace the existing mounting bolt and snap-ring on most derailleurs. A head and barrel are connected to retain the spring and tension adjusting components of the derailleur and to serve as a receptacle for a pin. The pin attaches directly to the derailleur hanger of the bicycle and is designed to withstand normal pedaling forces, while assuring separation prior to excessive yielding of the derailleur. The pin is manufactured with an opening so that a tool can be inserted in it to easily remove the separated pieces. As a result, damage to the frame and derailleur is prevented and the bicycle can be easily repaired by replacement of the pin.

Abstract: An automatic fire extinguishing discharge valve capable of attachment to a fire extinguisher thereby enabling automatic discharge of extinguishing medium upon sufficient impact or temperature rise. The automatic feature is controlled by maintaining a temperature sensitive trigger mechanism of a predesigned mass in opposition to a spring force attempting to drive a puncturing mechanism into the fire extinguisher. So long as the trigger mechanism remains in place the fire extinguisher will remain at the ready position and will not discharge the suppressant.

Abstract: The device for securing golf clubs is intended for use in combination with a golf club bag having a mouth portion for receiving golf clubs and comprises a set of plates having slots which cooperate with each other to secure one or more golf club shafts between the slots. The device also contains a locking mechanism to secure the golf clubs to the bag.

Abstract: Flavored coffee filters which can be impregnated with an essential oil and placed inside a conventional coffee maker to which coffee is then added to the filter. The filter permits the brewing water to filter through the coffee and the filter without obstruction while imparting the desired flavor of the essential oil to the brewing water.

Abstract: A lost pet retrieval collar receives a coded radio signal and activates a puncturing device to release gas from a pressurized canister to inflate a balloon creating a visual alarm that the pet is lost. The pet collar also contains information necessary to enable a passerby to contact the pet owner. In one embodiment, the puncturing device utilizes a spring loaded pin; in a second embodiment, the puncturing device utilizes a solenoid valve; in a third embodiment, a laser is employed.