Abstract: A method for aerating water in a treatment basin includes positioning at least one bridge above an upper surface of the water in the basin; providing a retrievable mounting frame assembly; securing a guide rail assembly to the bridge; transporting the mounting frame assembly on a transport device to a selected position on the walkway near the guide rail assembly; securing a transfer crane to the walkway proximate the guide rail assembly; transferring the mounting frame assembly from the transport device for connection to the a one guide rail assembly; connecting the mounting frame assembly to the guide rail assembly to provide a supply of air to the first air distribution conduit; moving the retrievable mounting frame assembly from a first position above the upper surface of the water to a second position below the water; and initiating a flow of air to the first air distribution conduit.

Abstract: An aeration element for gasification or aeration of liquids includes an essentially flattened, rigid support element having a substantially oval cross-section and corrugated outer surfaces, the corrugated outer surfaces including ridges defining grooves therebetween; a threaded opening for receiving a cooperating fitting for connection to an air supply; and a flexible membrane of elastomeric material disposed around the support element, The membrane has a plurality of slits, and wherein compressed gas is introduced between the support element and the membrane, the gas can escape via these slits into the surrounding liquid. A retaining clamp holds the membrane around at least one end of the support element. A check valve assembly prevents backflow of liquid, particles, sludge or debris into the interior of the support element.

Abstract: A toy for people or animals, especially for dogs, is provided. The disc-shaped or component ring toy has a body having optional recesses on an outer surface thereof. The body comprises a ring core of a first, hard polymeric material, and a covering of a second, soft polymeric thermosetting material, natural rubber, or mixture of a thermosetting and non-thermosetting material which may be frictionally connected, thermally and chemically bonded, or otherwise mechanically interconnected to the first polymeric material.

Abstract: A floatable pet toy comprising a hollow outer member, a sealed buoyant flotation bladder, and a rope section. The hollow outer member is made of rubber or polymeric material and has an inner cavity. The flotation bladder is disposed in the inner cavity of the outer member. A first end of the rope section is connected or anchored to the flotation bladder or to a washer disposed in the cavity, and a second end of the rope section extends beyond the outer member.

Abstract: A treat dispenser for animals, especially in the form of a rubber chew toy for dogs. The treat dispenser comprises a housing having a hollow interior and at least one aperture adapted to receive and dispense treats. The treat dispenser also has an at least partially helically extending insert disposed in the hollow interior of the housing and adapted to advance treats to the at least one aperture of the housing.

Abstract: A toy for animals, comprising an outer, hollow shell member of elastomeric material. The shell member has at least one hole to provide communication between the hollow interior and the exterior thereof. A hollow, flexible insert is disposed within the shell member and is at least partially in contact therewith. An acoustic cartridge is disposed in a port of a hollow insert.

Abstract: A toy for animals, comprising an outer, hollow shell member of elastomeric material. The shell member has at least one hole to provide communication between the hollow interior and the exterior thereof. A hollow, flexible insert is disposed within the shell member and is at least partially in contact therewith. The hollow insert can have a recessed portion or an integral center core. An acoustic cartridge is disposed in a port of the hollow insert.

Abstract: A treat dispenser for animals, especially in the form of a rubber chew toy for dogs. The treat dispenser comprises a housing having a hollow interior and at least one aperture adapted to receive and dispense treats. The treat dispenser also has an at least partially helically extending insert disposed in the hollow interior of the housing and adapted to advance treats to the at least one aperture of the housing.

Abstract: A toy for animals, comprising an outer, hollow shell member of elastomeric material. The shell member has at least one hole to provide communication between the hollow interior and the exterior thereof. A hollow, flexible insert is disposed within the shell member and is at least partially in contact therewith. An acoustic cartridge is disposed in a port of a hollow insert.

Abstract: A toy for people or animals, especially for dogs, is provided. The disc-shaped or component ring toy has a body having optional recesses on an outer surface thereof. The body comprises a ring core of a first, hard polymeric material, and a covering of a second, soft polymeric thermosetting material, natural rubber, or mixture of a thermosetting and non-thermosetting material which may be frictionally connected, thermally and chemically bonded, or otherwise mechanically interconnected to the first polymeric material.

Abstract: A toy for animals, especially for dogs, is provided. The toy has a body having optional recesses on an outer surface thereof.