Abstract: A baseball pitching machine is disclosed preferably employing a counterrotating wheel type baseball launch subsystem pitching a series of baseballs and a computer controlled system for selecting the type and percentage of pitches, pitcher and batter characteristics, strike zone areas and other parameters to provide a meaningful batting training session. The pitching machine includes a ball transport subsystem including a carousel for receiving and transporting baseballs in sequence to a position adjacent the counter rotating wheels. While being transported, each baseball stops at seam orienting stations where seam rotators rotate the baseball to provide a commanded seam orientation for the particular pitch selected. The baseball is oriented by the ball orienter for insertion in the launch subsystem. A computer allows the selection by the operator of a variety of pitches, random or selected order.

Abstract: A lightweight carrier for aiding in transporting an elongated load such as one or more surfboards or sailboards either uncovered on in carrying bags is formed of a simple U-shaped frame of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe having attached wheels. The carrier which is normally fastened to one end of the load, includes a padded cross member which carries much of the load and padded upright supports or arms which are sufficiently flexible that they can deform or bend outwardly or inwardly. A strap is used to pull the tops of the arms together around the load. A surfer can then carry the opposite end of the load which will trail behind him on the carrier.

Abstract: A system for monitoring traffic flow on multi-laned roadways. The system includes a plurality of radiation sources such as light emitting diodes, LEDs and a corresponding set of radiation detectors such as photo diodes. The radiation sources and detectors form a crossed array as well as direct paths across the roadway. By correlating radiation beam interruptions including the time and order of interruption, a signal processor such as a computer is able to determine traffic parameters for each lane. Multiple beams in parallel aid the reliability of the system. Using retroreflectors with the radiation sources and detectors on the same side of the roadway simplifies installation.

Abstract: A hydration system for backpackers or other athletes including a bladder, a filling opening, an enclosing cover and filling opening, a flexible line and a deformable valve to be held in the user's mouth. The cover is of smaller volume than the bladder to protect the bladder from bursting upon overfilling. The valve is operated by pressure in the mouth, usually by the user's jaw and teeth to open a slit and allow potable liquid to flow from the bladder through the line and into the flexible valve for the user's consumption. The slit is located in the side wall of a membrane having a reverse fold whereby pressure from the bladder, in the absence of user applied valve deforming pressure tends to close rather than open the slit. The line includes a quick disconnect fitting to allow the filing of the bladder from the line as well as from its own filler opening.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for sensing selected conditions particularly for an unoccupied commercial business and taking the appropriate action. Corrective action may include shutting down a system, sending a signal to an occupied location for evaluation of the selected abnormal condition, making a record of the abnormal condition for rectification at a later time. The system includes one or more light level sensors directed to observe the light level at a selected location, a CPU or controller which stores data representing acceptable light levels and a schedule. If the light level at the selected area does not reach or maintain the desired light level, corrective action is taken. If the commercial establishment is a bank and the light level is at an ATM (automatic teller machine) the system may temporarily shut the ATM machine down and illuminate a sign to indicate that the ATM is not open.

Abstract: A filter cartridge is disclosed having a pleated filter element, hollow perforated core, a lower annular end cap sealed to the bottom ends of the core and filter element and an upper circular end cap sealed to the top ends of the filter element and core. A hollow threaded nipple open at both ends extends coaxially downwardly from the annular end cap, the hollow interior of the nipple being continuous with the hollow interior of the core. A handle extends upwardly from the circular end cap.