Abstract: An array of light emitting diodes (LEDs) located in or on an article for attracting attention are energized over respective time increments of a predetermined duty cycle with peak power pulses having an amplitude substantially equal to their rated forward voltage VF and a current no larger than their rated maximum current IMAX.

Abstract: The foregoing and other objects of the invention will be realized by a closure assembly engageable with the filler tube of a fuel tank for preventing the outflow of fuel vapors from the fuel tank during a filling procedure and including a manually grippable generally circular top member having a central axial opening therein for permitting the passage of a fuel delivery nozzle therethrough and receiving a relatively smaller press fitted cap thereat. A threaded bottom member of generally circular cross section extends from the top member for threadable engagement with a threaded opening in the filler tube. The bottom member is of a generally hollow construction and has a central axial opening therein and in which a resilient circular annular fuel vapor absorbent filter element is located.

Abstract: A tennis net tightening assembly adapted for installation as a unit inside the upper end of an existing tennis net post and which comprises an elongated threaded shaft journaled between a pair of support plates, one of which contacts a portion of the lower inner wall surface of the net post while the other support plate is fitted to the lower portion of a collar which is adapted to seat on the top of the net post and extends upwardly therefrom. A captured nut is located on the threaded shaft and includes a hook for engaging one end of the net support cable. The support cable passes through a slot in the upper portion of the collar, which additionally includes a semi-circular cable guide element adjacent the slot. The elongated threaded shaft is journaled between the support plates and includes a shank at its upper end which passes through the collar and is protected thereby.

Abstract: A brushless DC motor is disclosed wherein armature forces can be produced and controlled as both radial forces and as torque couples. A structure is described in which the normal radial destabilizing forces due to the high levels of magnetic flux linking the stator and rotor are reduced and the force gradient is moderated. This is accomplished by locating the rotor between two concentric stator coil assemblies either of which may be used for bearing or torquing to join the rotor magnets via magnetically "soft" iron, thereby reducing the rotor mass and inertia with the consequent improvement in dynamic performance. Since the forces on the rotor are the sum of the forces produced by each individual stator coil, it is possible to combine groups of stator coils in various ways and independently control them to achieve the dual purpose.

Abstract: An underground watering system for an athletic facility such as a tennis court, comprising a plurality of select equally spaced shallow water reservoir trenches having rounded surfaces over which is applied a waterproof liner. A water distribution pipe is located on the lining at the bottom of such trench and extends the entire length thereof. The trenches are filled with fine stone aggregate over which is laid a water permeable fabric which covers the whole area to be watered. A relatively coarse layer of aggregate is placed over the fabric followed by an upper layer of relatively fine aggregate. A layer of playing surface material overlays the fine aggregate layer. Water supplied to the trenches via the distribution pipes will saturate the permeable fabric and will be drawn up to the playing surface by capillary action.