Abstract: An adjustable pattern irrigation device is provided with a head member that is pivotably coupled to a plurality of arm members that further serve as a break for incoming water. A cam and follower determine the trajectory of the tilting head member. A plurality of removable and interchangeable cams having an endless number of shapes provided different planned irrigation patterns. Adjustment plates are optionally coupled to the cams to allow for adjustments to the irrigation patterns.

Abstract: A method and system for rapid heat-sink soldering, having a workpiece gripper, an intense heat source, and an optional air-jet cooling system, is provided for soldering workpieces to substrates of dissimilar material composition. The workpiece gripper selectively positions the workpiece closely adjacent the substrate and continually removes excess heat from the workpiece, both during and after the application of heat to the workpiece. Upon termination of the heat application, air-jet cooling can be provided to the workpiece to quickly cool the terminal and the molten layer of solderable material.

Abstract: A system is provided for tracking the wheel bearing temperatures of a train and selecting those that are statistically determined to be abnormally high, while eliminating from consideration, or otherwise categorizing those high temperature readings which are the result of other anomalous and non-anomalous conditions. The system determines the overall distribution of the bearing temperatures for both sides of a train at each wayside location. The bearing temperatures are ranked for comparison with the overall train distribution. Outliers are detected and characterized based on temperature patterns and previous history.

Abstract: A socket mating connector is provided for use in securing a lead wire to a post terminal. The connector includes a top wall and a side wall extending downwardly therefrom, forming an inner cavity that is shaped to receive a portion of the lead wire and the post terminal. The side wall of the connector includes at least one compression slot that is shaped to securely receive the lead wire as it enters the inner cavity. The lead wire can be connected to the inner cavity by soldering or welding to increase the strength of the mechanical connection. The terminal end of the lead wire can also be shaped to resist pulling the lead wire through the compression slot.

Abstract: An awning lock mechanism for securing a collapsible awning. The lock mechanism is comprised of a lock housing and bracket that are coupled to an awning support member so that the lock mechanism is positioned closely adjacent the roller tube assembly when the awning is in its collapsed position. A locking pin selectively extends outwardly from the lock housing to be received by an opening formed in the roller tube assembly. In its locked position, the lock assembly substantially prevents the rotation of the roller tube assembly with respect to the support member. The lock member is then selectively moved to an unlocked position, allowing the deployment of the awning.

Abstract: A process challenge device and method of using the same is presented for testing the efficiency of various sterilization procedures on objects to be sterilized. The device is assembled from two tapered end portions having opposite open ends and an open pathway extending therethrough. A central chamber in the open pathway receives a Biological Indicator for testing the efficiency of the sterilization process. The device is ideal for testing a sterilization process on elongated objects such as tubing, at any point along their length. The coupling structures on the end portions provide the device with single-use security.

Abstract: An animated figure is provided with a body and at least one jointed appendage that is pivotably coupled thereto. Motive force is provided to a shaft having a cam which is coupled to a follower formed within the appendage to pivot the appendage with respect to the body. A control rod extends between the cam and the joint of the appendage to enable the joint to bend as the appendage is pivoted. Additional joints and control rods may be provided depending on the appendage movement desired. Likewise, multiple appendages, including a neck and head, may be provided and coupled to one another to impart a natural movement to the figure, such as walking or running.

Abstract: A frame assembly for eyeglasses is provided having removable and interchangeable securement members. The frame assembly is preferably provided with a lense frame having mounting holes formed in the opposite ends of the frame. A pair of mounting pins are provided to be removably secured within the mounting holes. In one embodiment, a cord member is secured at its opposite ends to the mounting pins and wraps around the user's head to secure the frame assembly in place. In another embodiment, a pair of arms are secured to the mounting pins and releasably secured within the mounting holes. The frame assembly eliminate the necessity for a hinge assembly and creates a durable and adjustable eyeglass assembly.

Abstract: A mobile ramp having sloped and horizontal platforms is presented for elevating a vehicle from the floor to provide easy access to the underside of the vehicle to service the same. The ramp is provided with wheels that are pivotably mounted to the frame of the ramp so that they can be extended to raise the ramp off the floor for ease of mobility. The wheels are also retractable to allow the ramp to be safely secured to the floor when it is in use. The retractable action of the wheels is mechanically responsive to the weight of a vehicle as it is wheeled on and off of the ramp, providing for a hands-free operation. While it is mobile, the ramp is further designed to be durable and simple to manufacture.

Abstract: The snap terminal of the present invention is provided with a top wall, a vertical wall, an annular flange, and an annular setoff extending therefrom. The setoff is positioned concentric to the open portion of the terminal. In use, the setoff provides a space between the flange and a component for receiving a minimum volume of solderable material. The setoff further prevents excess solderable material from flowing into the open portion of the terminal when the terminal is soldered to a component. The terminal may be formed in a one-piece unitary construction.

Abstract: Through the use of flexible materials having a coefficient of friction lower than that of conventional sport balls, a sport ball training cover is created. The flexible material is fashioned into a pocket that snugly but removably covers the sport ball. The cover supplants its coefficient of friction to the sport ball, making it difficult to handle and creating a valuable training device for proper ball-handling. In another embodiment, a permanent training sport ball is formed by permanently attaching the flexible material to the outer cover of the ball. Other embodiments of the covers, that removably or permanently cover the sport balls, have different shapes and vary the amount of flexible material used to leave selected areas of the sport ball, such as the laces of a football, uncovered. The versatility and variety of the covers make them useful for any number of different training drills and sports.

Abstract: The folding blade terminal of the present invention includes a planar base and elongated terminal blade that are operatively connected through an upward projection fold feature and terminal blade angle hinge feature. In use, the folding blade terminal facilitates point-of-use final terminal forming and integral mechanical pull testing while producing a uniform solder fillet around the perimeter of the terminal base, eliminating the risk of stress points caused by irregular solder fillets. Alternate embodiments of the invention provide a terminal lock disposed at the opposite end of the terminal to prevent the unintentional removal of a box terminal from the terminal blade. Another embodiment of the invention provides a double folding blade terminal. Each of the embodiments of the present invention can be formed to have particular profile heights as required.

Abstract: A device for planting different varieties of seeds is provided with a seed hopper or carousel that is selectively placed in open communication with a plurality of seed metering devices. A selectively positionable gate member directs the seeds to specific seed metering devices. The seed metering devices are movable on the device to engage a first metering device with a ground engagement assembly and a second metering device with a discharge container. The seed metering devices operate in alternating seed-dispersing and clearing modes simultaneously to speed planting. A GPS system may be incorporated to track and accurately control the planting operation.

Abstract: A teaching device is provided for use with an overhead projector to display educational problems to a group of students. The solutions to the problems are selectively concealed and revealed by the teacher through the use of a solution cover. A plurality of embodiments is provided disclosing different methods of moving the solution cover between concealing and revealing positions. The teaching device is adaptable for use with different types of overhead projectors as needed.

Abstract: The snap electrical terminal of the present invention includes a base having a top wall, a vertical wall, and an annular flange. The annual flange has an underside on which is disposed a ring of solder. In use, the snap electrical terminal provides a ring-shaped electrical and/or mechanical connection with the component to which it is connected. Alternate embodiments of the terminal permit the attachment of male or female threaded components thereto depending on the desired application.

Abstract: A fluid handling system is disclosed having a swivel for connecting a stationary fluid source line to a fluid service line that is wound upon a reel. A rotor cap secures the fluid source line and a rotor within the swivel in position, allowing a housing within the swivel to freely rotate with the fluid service line and reel. The swivel is coupled to the fluid source line using a crimping ferrule to eliminate the necessity of predisposing mating components on the fluid source line. The swivel is further provided with seals that reduce the incidence of bunching and tear due to the reduction in drag imposed on the seals.

Abstract: An improved hand tool for trimming and deburring the edges of objects made of various materials is provided with an elongated body member having a longitudinal channel formed therein for receiving the edge of the object to be trimmed. An elongated opening passes through the body member, from its lower surface into open communication with the longitudinal channel. An elongated blade is secured within the body member and positioned to selectively adjustably pass through the opening into the longitudinal channel to engage the edge being passed through the longitudinal channel. An adjustment assembly allows for incremental and consistent adjustment of the blade's cutting depth. Storage compartments are provided within the body member for conveniently and safely storing replacement blades.