Abstract: An operating system and method for an engine is provided in which at least some fuel is preheated prior to delivery to the combustion system of the engine. A control system is also provided to operate the engine at higher than normal excess air ratios. The system can be provided in kit form for retrofitting in existing engines.

Abstract: An artificial turf system which includes a support layer, a base layer, and an outer layer. The support layer comprises an area of selected size and composition. The base layer comprises at least one grid which consists of a plurality of interconnected cells. The base layer is positioned over the support layer. Each cell forming the grid comprises an upstanding tubular member which includes an upper portion, having a first diameter, and a lower portion having a second diameter. The lower cell portion provides the cell with vertical flexibility. The plurality of cells provide the grid with selected vertical movement on contact providing the artificial turf system with improved softness.

Abstract: An operating system and method for an engine is provided in which at least some fuel is preheated prior to delivery to the combustion system of the engine. A control system is also provided to operate the engine at higher than normal excess air ratios. The system can be provided in kit form for retrofitting in existing engines.

Abstract: An aggregate turf filler for use with the turf of athletic fields and landscaped areas which comprise crushed silica sand particles (SiO2) which are substantially round in shape and are sized to be between 12 and 40 mesh. An acrylic based sealer covering the outer surface of each of the silica sand particles. Finally, providing that the silica sand particles have a smooth outer surface, possess an angle of repose of less than 30°, repel water, resist compacting, present no damaging sharp edges when incorporated with the turf and are environmentally safe.

Abstract: A stable artificial putting green which includes a base, an intermediate layer, an artificial putting surface including a pile fabric supported by the intermediate layer, and an edging defining its outer limits. The pile fabric extends over the upper edge and down an outer side of the edging where it is secured. Fine sand fills the interstices about the pile yarns. The intermediate layer includes a PYRACELL layer. The PYRACELL layer includes a synthetic sheet formed with a plurality of raised conically shaped hollow cells over its upper surface. A plurality of drainage holes are formed in spaces between the cells and a non-wove porous web is secured to the lower surface of the sheet. Finally, a coarse sand is laid over the sheet up to substantially top surfaces of the cells.

Abstract: A fuel-air mixing device for installation preferably between an intake manifold and air intake duct of a cylinder of an internal combustion engine. The device extends downstream into the air intake duct, and has an open inlet end for channeling the air-fuel mixture into the device. A closed downstream end forces the air-fuel mixture to flow into the downstream end of the intake duct via special apertures which are adapted to atomise the fuel and mix the same with air. The arrangement ensures that the air-fuel mixture is urged towards the along the walls of the air intake duct, thereby vaporising the fuel by thermal contact therewith.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to, in part, modules that allow for the exchange of a fluid such as a liquid or gas to and/or from a growing medium or surface and systems and methods comprising same. In one embodiment, there is provided an apparatus for directing the flow of a fluid passing through a growing medium, the apparatus comprising: a top having a plurality of perforations, a base that is positioned adjacent and substantially parallel to the top, thereby defining a cavity for passage of fluid therein, and a plurality of supports interposed between the top and the base, the supports maintaining the height of the cavity and being sufficient in number, size, and physical properties as to permit the top to support the weight of the medium and activity above the medium.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for killing and controlling pests by using cocktails of plant alkaloids. In one embodiment, the pesticidal composition comprises: anabasine; and one or more plant alkaloids selected from the group consisting of toosendanin, azadirachtin, tomatine, nicotine, matrine, oxymatrine, sophocarpine, N-oxysophocarpine, cytisine, and aloperine. The pesticide can be used to protect crop plants, wood structures and animals from damages by harmful pests, overcome resistance of pests to current commercial pesticides, and reduce contamination to the environment.

Abstract: An artificial turf is disclosed which comprises an outer artificial grass layer having a generally uniform exterior playing surface. A deflection layer is disposed below the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a prescribed height to provide resiliency for absorbing impact shocks from foot traffic and playing on the artificial grass layer. The deflection layer has a plurality of interstices providing open passages for water drainage; and loose particles are dispersed into the interstices of the deflection layer up to a prescribed level to provide stability and enhance shock absorption so that the deflection layer deflects when the artificial grass is impacted to assist in absorbing the impact and maintain normal playing action of the playing surface of the artificial grass layer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a horticulturally diverse garden for growing botanicals having a plurality of transportable modules, at least two of which provide differing microenvironments. The modules can comprise various soil compositions such that a variety of diverse botanicals can grow and thrive in close proximity. The present invention also provides for a garden which is irrigated from below the modules. The garden can also be heated or cooled underground. The present invention can also comprise a flexible plastic film or other transparent enclosure covering the top of the garden or modules. The modules may also comprise a synthetic surface.

Abstract: A collector flight for use in a sewage settling or sedimentation tank includes an elongated, generally C-shaped, one-piece, extruded aluminum body defined by top and bottom, hollow, rectangular heads connected together at one corner by a planar web. Slots extend the length of each side of the heads to receive brackets used to connect the flight to chains which move the flights through a sedimentation tank. The slots are also used to mount accessories such as shoes and a combination wiper/skimmer strip on the flights.

Abstract: Improved turf units for assembling a natural turf playing surface in a stadium or the like. Natural turf units are provided which are transportable between first and second locations, the second location being for the growth and maintenance of the turf unit; the first location being a location for the performance of the desired activity. A fence section hingeably connected to the growing pan of the turf unit provides for maintenance of the top level of the plant growing medium at a significant height above the top of the side walls of the growing pan. A turf unit in accordance with the invention is used to assemble such a playing surface without removable parts. Also, the outer periphery of the fence extends outwardly beyond the outer periphery of the side walls of the growing pans such that, when the turf units are assembled adjacent each other to create the playing surface, large areas exist beneath the playing surface to provide adequate space for drainage of the field.

Abstract: Improved turf units for assembling a natural turf playing surface in a stadium or the like. Natural turf units are provided which are transportable between first and second locations, the second location being for the growth and maintenance of the turf unit; the first location being a location for the performance of the desired activity. A fence section hingeably connected to the growing pan of the turf unit provides for maintenance of the top level of the plant growing medium at a significant height above the top of the side walls of the growing pan. A turf unit in accordance with the invention is used to assemble such a playing surface without removable parts. Also, the outer periphery of the fence extends outwardly beyond the outer periphery of the side walls of the growing pans such that, when the turf units are assembled adjacent each other to create the playing surface, large areas exist beneath the playing surface to provide adequate space for drainage of the field.