Abstract: A ball collecting apparatus and method of use thereof, wherein the ball collecting apparatus comprises a plurality of selectively positionable elastic members secured to a plurality of securing points on a lower portion of a frame or a removable base section connected to the frame. The plurality of elastic members are secured to user-selected securing points so that the distance between the elastic members can accommodate substantially spherical objects of different sizes. In use, the ball collecting apparatus is pressed on top of a ball or similar object, causing the elastic members to separate and allow the ball to enter and be retained within the frame. Upon entering of the ball within the frame, the elastic members retract to their original position, therein preventing the ball from falling back out.

Abstract: The invention discloses an apparatus for filtration of water from hydrocarbons comprised of a fresh-feed inlet, a first dead end filter, that is hydrophobic, a second sweeping-flow filter, that is hydrophobic, a common housing containing both the first and second filters, a system for the recirculation of the retentate, a chamber for water settling, and an outlet for clean fuel permeate. This invention takes advantage of the properties of the functional groups of a surfactant, by using the surfactant to allow a hydrophobic medium to attract water, attach the water molecules to the hydrophobic medium, and then allow for agglomeration of the water molecules, which finally become large enough to detach and be swept away by the sweeping-flow. This invention can thus be used to remove high concentrations of water, up to 5%, in hydrocarbons, while allowing a high flow rate by preventing blockage of the final filter by water.

Abstract: A device for covering food (306) during microwave heating includes a microwavable flexible sheet (100) having a substantially smooth, food-facing surface (102) that is free of openings. The sheet (100) has a configuration including size, shape, and weight distribution for flexibly draping the sheet (100) over the food (306) on a rigid structure (304) such that the flexibly draped sheet (100) overhangs and folds loosely over an outer perimeter of the rigid structure thereby forming at least a partial enclosure around the food (306) when the sheet contacts at least a portion of an outer perimeter of the food-containing rigid structure (304). During microwave heating, the at least a partial enclosure around the food (306) substantially contains food-splattering (308) inside while allowing steam (312) to escape through an opening (310) formed between the flexibly draped sheet (100) and the outer perimeter of the rigid structure (304).

Abstract: An arc-hydrolysis steam generator apparatus and method of use thereof, the steam generator comprising of an arc-plasma hydrolysis using a high pressure vessel and electrodes exposed to high frequency, high amperage pulses and an inductor placed around an arc-hydrolysis unit, wherein the inductor recovers magnetic energy generated by the electric arc discharge to supplement the steam energy recoverable from water by the arc-hydrolysis unit.

Abstract: A percussive drill bit or reamer having a plurality of bit segments formed into a circular pattern suitable for drilling or reaming a hole. The bit segments are close-fitted and shaped to increase the cutting area and improve efficiency. Pressurized air exhausted from driving the percussion mechanism, or provided from a separate source, is passed into the bit segment and exits from a side face thereof into the gap formed between adjacent bit segments, thereby driving out any debris present in the gap and preventing binding of the bit segments. When utilized with mechanically-driven percussive bit assemblies, where air is only needed to remove debris from a rock face, separately-provided air is delivered to the bit segments of the present invention as described above to clear the gaps of debris.

Abstract: A discreet bed-wetting alarm comprising a controller, earpiece with earphone, and interconnecting cable. The controller comprises a clock/processor with timer, a display, a sound signal/tone generator, an amplifier programmed to provide an increase in sound volume level, a battery, and various input devices. A plurality of alarm time selections corresponding to known bed-wetting event times is subsequently made and a suitable alarm tone or tones is selected to awaken or alert the user. The discreet bed-wetting alarm controller and earphone may be incorporated into the earpiece for further discretion. Alternate embodiments include a vibrating alarm and/or a flashing light alarm.

Abstract: The present invention is a device formed of waterproof or water-resistant fabric having a central section comprising a top, front and bottom, to which is joined side portions, thereby providing coverage for slipping over a tree-mounted hunting stand, including preferably both standing and seating portions thereof. The cover is pulled proximate the surface of the tree to which the stand is mounted, and extensions at the top and bottom of the cover provide an interface that prevents the incursion of water. The cover is then held in place via suitable attachment means, such as, for exemplary purposes only, bungee cords, wherein the hook ends of the bungee cords connect with apertures in the top and bottom extensions of the cover.

Abstract: A sealed-shaft gravity-buoyancy energy system and method of use thereof, wherein a wheel is powered by ball masses which fall under gravitational force, thereby causing the wheel to rotate. The ball masses are collected and inserted into a fluid shaft, wherein the fluid shaft comprises at least two separate columns having valves at the ends thereof to provide a sealing function, thereby preventing fluid loss. Buoyant force raises the ball masses to the top of the device, wherein the ball masses are deposited once again onto the wheel. A generator or other device utilizes the rotational force of the wheel to create energy.

Abstract: A window cover support device and method of use thereon, wherein the device is non-rotating and comprises a bracket having support members in the form of pairs of upward-facing hooks over which a valance rod or curtain rod may be placed, a box structure for confinement of one end of a miniblind support rod, and also a round or rectangular slotted opening for installation of one end of a shade support rod therein. The bracket is utilized in pairs with a tension rod between same to provide support to the selected window cover or combination of window covers. In furtherance of adhesion to the wall, the present invention incorporates a novel plug-flap device of rubber, or other similar material, suitable for insertion into the end of the tension rod, the plug-flap device providing a large surface area of rubber or similar material under the bracket.

Abstract: A cargo box assembly and method of use thereof, wherein a cargo box is mounted within the bed of a pickup truck, and wherein the cargo box may be moved between a stored position at the forward end of the truck bed and a tailgate position at the rear end of the truck bed. The cargo box is mounted to a pair of rail assemblies, wherein each rail assembly comprises a chain and a pair of gears to facilitate motorized movement of the box within the truck bed.

Abstract: A grilling implement and method of use thereof, the grilling implement comprising at least one hook having a tip, a shaft and a heel. The shaft and heel lie coplanar, and the tip curves upward out of the plane of the shaft and heel such that the hook can be passed under the tines of a grill grate, and the tip thereof maneuvered over the grill tines to securely hold the grate. The grilling implement further comprises at least one bar lying coplanar with the heel and shaft of the hook, wherein the bar supports the grill grate when rotated under the tines of the grate. The grilling implement can also be utilized to maneuver charcoal briquettes or break apart natural charcoal logs.

Abstract: A device and method for providing support to a toilet bowl suitable to sustain the weight of an obese or otherwise large individual. The device comprises a support bar placed underneath the toilet and affixed to the toilet wall support, and a leg between the toilet bowl and the floor. The leg is hinged to allow folding thereof to facilitate cleaning under the toilet bowl.

Abstract: An improved stretcher pad and method of use thereof, wherein the improved stretcher pad comprises a cushioned pad with wing members extending therefrom, and wherein the wing members comprise pockets dimensioned to receive the side rails of a stretcher or gurney. Once inserted into the wing members, a side rail can be folded to form a bridge support between the stretcher and/or gurney and a patient's bed or other surface upon which the patient reposes. A removable, adjustable pillow is also included.