Abstract: A computerized method for mixing inks to facilitate high fidelity color reproduction for printing includes the steps of using a theoretical printer model to establish relationship between the colorant space and the color space using the small number of measurements; building a simplified colorant space wherein each color in the color space corresponds to only one colorant point; sampling the color space for accurate calibration; performing interpolation and correction for any non-calibrated points based on the theoretical and experimental results; and building a color reproduction table that accepts image data as input and output colorant combinations for use by the printer to achieve high fidelity color printing.

Abstract: A utility vehicle with foot-controlled mobility is provided that includes a skeletal frame structure supporting a gasoline engine which utilizes a belt drive system to drive hydraulic motors with one hydraulic motor disposed at each rear wheel. The vehicle includes four wheel and tire assemblies, substantially at each corner with the rear wheels being driven and the front wheels being formed as casters for 360° rotation to provide a zero turning radius vehicle. The user sits upright in a manner wherein the user's legs are supported on pivotal leg support plates to allow the user to sit upright with legs directed down and away from the waist to allow the user to operate a hand-held implement. Both speed control and directional control are provided using pivotally mounted pedals with one pedal controlling each hydraulic motor. Movement of the pedals allows individual motor control to provide drive steering and speed control.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for facilitating a tobacco curing process, with the apparatus being for use in a tobacco barn, with the tobacco barn having a plurality of internal cross members for supporting tobacco leaves during curing. The apparatus includes a plenum for attachment to a tobacco barn; a device for generating air movement in fluid communication with the plenum for delivering atmospheric air thereto; and a plurality of conduits in fluid communication with the plenum for receiving airflow therefrom, the conduits being formed with a plurality of openings therein to allow air to flow outwardly therefrom, the conduits being configured for disposition within the barn for fluid communication with tobacco in a curing disposition within the barn.

Abstract: A solid phase mixed solvent polymer, compositions and methods for removing and retaining solvated organic compounds and inorganic ions from water, wastewater, superficial and ground water, soil and other environmental sources, a soil amendment and method resulting from adhesively coating the polymer onto sand along with at least one ion exchange material, and methods for the containment, reduction, and prevention of organic leaching from soils, agricultural, industrial, and commercial environments, and in particular, sports and athletic turf facilities such as golf courses where pesticides are frequently applied.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to developments in the fields of dentistry and dental surgery, and particularly to an improvement in dental restoration apparatus. Typically, apparatus of this type includes an implant adapted to be implanted in an anchor site fashioned within the bone of the jaw of the patient. In addition, the apparatus includes an abutment ultimately providing support for a tooth restoration. Finally, the apparatus includes a fastener assembly for engaging both the implant and abutment in their mounted orientation, and securing the two structures together in a manner to positively resist relative movement both axially and rotationally.

Abstract: A process is provided for full treatment of animal manure and other organic slurries containing suspended solids, and dissolved organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus, without the need for anaerobic digestion or anaerobic stabilization lagoons. The process includes: centrifugal decanting, flocculation, dissolved air flotation thickening, centrate heating, acidification in fluidized bed reactor, biological removal of phosphorus, nitrogen and dissolved organic matter in microfiltration membrane bioreactor and disinfection with ultraviolet radiation. The process separates liquids from solids, converts solids into organo-mineral fertilizer pellets, and treats the liquid to dischargeable standards. Land application for effluent disposal is not required because the treatment removes all nutrients.

Abstract: An attachment device or replacement button device for mounting on at least one piece of pliant material includes a carrier member having a carrier head and a carrier shank extending outwardly from the carrier head. The carrier shank includes a piercing point and a joining region exists between the carrier head and the carrier shank with the joining region having a curved portion with a predefined radius. A receiver is provided for receiving the carrier shank and retaining the carrier member in a mated relationship with the receiver. The receiver includes a smooth receiver head for non-abrasive contact with a user and a receiver shank extends outwardly from the receiver head to define a receiving well for receipt of the carrier shank. The devices are mated by a friction fit and the receiver shank length combines with the carrier shank length to provide a predetermined spacing between the carrier head and the receiver head to allow the device to be operated in the manner of a conventional button.

Abstract: Apparatus for drying and stacking treated workpieces includes a housing defining a drying chamber; a workpiece carrying assembly mounted to the housing for moving the workpieces along a travel path through the drying chamber, including an endless strand trained around a plurality of wheels, and a plurality of pins spaced along and projecting outwardly from the strand for supporting and carrying workpieces; a workpiece removal assembly for removing workpieces from the pins including a ramp formed with an abutment surface and a slot formed therein through which the pins can pass to engage workpieces being carried on the pins wherein each workpiece is forced off its respective pin as the respective pin advances through the slot; a workpiece collection arrangement for receiving workpieces removed from the pins, with the travel path being generally vertically oriented and the pins being generally horizontally oriented wherein workpieces fall into the workpiece collection arrangement; and a workpiece ejector assemb