Abstract: Ordering, customizing, and managing a hierarchy of keys and locks. In an embodiment, a keying tree is graphically generated to comprise a key representation and at least one lock representation. The key representation represents at least one master key, as a root node, and comprises a key-name input, a key-quantity input, and a key-deletion input. The at least one lock representation represents at least one locking device, as at least one leaf node, and comprises a lock-name input, a lock-build input, a lock-quantity input, and a lock-deletion input.

Abstract: A padlock and chain connecting apparatus has a pair of identical elongate plates of uniform width, each with a first portion extending from a first end, a second portion extending from a second end, and a step between the first and second portions. Each plate has first opening adjacent the first end for engagement over a padlock shackle and a second opening adjacent the second end for receiving a permanent fastener. The second portion has an inclined notch extending inwardly from a first side. In the secured condition, the second portions of the plates are in face to face engagement with the first portions spaced apart and the aligned first openings engaged over a padlock shackle, the notches overlapped to define a securing orifice through which a link of a chain is trapped, and a permanent fastener secured through the aligned second openings to secure the plates together.

Abstract: An online lockable device ordering system and method for lockable devices such as padlocks including a key matching module configured for user entry of at least one key identifier configured to unlock certain lockable devices. The key matching module matches the key identifier with a range of stored key identifiers stored in a storage device. Images of lockable devices corresponding to the matched range are displayed on a user display screen, and the user can select a lockable device from the displayed images. The selected lockable device is customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: A trash container locking apparatus comprises first and second pivot arms with first ends pivoted to mounting plates secured to opposite sides of a trash container and a bar extending between second ends of the arms. The pivot arms can be pivoted upwards and rearwards between an unlocked condition in which the bar extends across the front of the container and a locked position in which the bar extends across the closed lid of the container. The first pivot arm having opposite side edges and an element operable with a rotating lock mechanism; and a stop plate extending outwards from the first mounting plate, the stop plate having a rotating lock mechanism.

Abstract: A trash container locking apparatus comprises first and second pivot arms with first ends pivoted to mounting plates secured to opposite sides of a trash container and a bar extending between second ends of the arms. The pivot arms can be pivoted upwards and rearwards between an unlocked condition in which the bar extends across the front of the container and a locked position in which the bar extends across the closed lid of the container. The first arm has an outwardly projecting locking flange with at least one opening, and the mounting plate for that arm has an outwardly projecting stop plate which has an opening aligned with the opening in the locking flange in the locked position. A padlock shackle is extended through the aligned openings to lock the flange to the mounting plate to prevent opening of the container lid without a key or padlock combination.

Abstract: Ordering, customizing, and managing a hierarchy of keys and locks. In an embodiment, a keying tree is graphically generated to comprise a key representation and at least one lock representation. The key representation represents at least one master key, as a root node, and comprises a key-name input, a key-quantity input, and a key-deletion input. The at least one lock representation represents at least one locking device, as at least one leaf node, and comprises a lock-name input, a lock-build input, a lock-quantity input, and a lock-deletion input.

Abstract: A method for producing nanoplates derived from a layered material, includes the steps: (a) mixing particles of said layered material with a carrier liquid to form a dispersion of said particles in said carrier liquid; (b) pressurizing the dispersion to a pressure of at least 10 kpsi; and (c) forcing the dispersion along a microfluidic channel under said pressure, to apply a shear rate of at least 105 s?1 to said particles in the dispersion. Exfoliation of nanoplates from said particles is thereby caused. The nanoplates may be graphene nanoplates, for example. Steps (b) and (c) may be repeated for a number of cycles in order to promote exfoliation. The method may be carried out using a microfluidizer.

Abstract: An online lockable device ordering system and method for lockable devices such as padlocks including a key matching module configured for user entry of at least one key identifier configured to unlock certain lockable devices. The key matching module matches the key identifier with a range of stored key identifiers stored in a storage device. Images of lockable devices corresponding to the matched range are displayed on a user display screen, and the user can select a lockable device from the displayed images. The selected lockable device is customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: An online lockable device ordering system and method for lockable devices such as padlocks including a key matching module configured for user entry of at least one key identifier configured to unlock certain lockable devices. The key matching module matches the key identifier with a range of stored key identifiers stored in a storage device. Images of lockable devices corresponding to the matched range are displayed on a user display screen, and the user can select a lockable device from the displayed images. The selected lockable device is customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: An online lockable device ordering system and method for lockable devices such as padlocks including a key matching module configured for user entry of at least one key identifier configured to unlock certain lockable devices. The key matching module matches the key identifier with a range of stored key identifiers stored in a storage device. Images of lockable devices corresponding to the matched range are displayed on a user display screen, and the user can select a lockable device from the displayed images. The selected lockable device is customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: An online lockable device ordering system and method for lockable devices such as padlocks including a key matching module configured for user entry of at least one key identifier configured to unlock certain lockable devices. The key matching module matches the key identifier with a range of stored key identifiers stored in a storage device. Images of lockable devices corresponding to the matched range are displayed on a user display screen, and the user can select a lockable device from the displayed images. The selected lockable device is customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: An online product ordering system first displays images of different product categories, such as different types of padlocks, and then displays all product models available in a category when the user clicks on a selected category image. The user selects a product model and then customizes various aspects of the selected model. In the case of a padlock, the user can select a shackle type and bumper type from available options, with images of each option displayed to the user for selection purposes, and may order a customized plate with user entered text or other indicia. In the case of a padlock, the user may enter their existing key number and the padlock can be customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: A trash container locking apparatus includes a housing which is secured to a surface of a trash container. The housing includes a pivot member rotatably mounted in an outer wall of the housing for rotation about a pivot axis and having an inner portion inside the housing and an outer portion outside the housing. A latch member is secured to the pivot member inside the housing. A swing arm secured to the pivot member outside the housing and associated with a locking bar which extends over a lid of the trash container. A latch paddle is pivotally mounted in the housing to hang vertically in a latch engaging position when the housing is mounted on the trash container. The latch member and latch paddle have interengaging formations which engage in a locking position to prevent the latch member and associated swing arm from rotating.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for releasably securing the lid of a trash container in a closed position has a locking arm with an elongate central portion for extending across the closed lid and bent end portions pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the container via pivot brackets which allow the arm to be pivoted between a first position extending across the closed lid of the trash container and a second position extending across the front wall of the container. The pivot bracket on one side is part of a locking device which has first and second locking formations on opposite sides of the pivot bracket, and the bent end portion of the arm on that side is releasably locked to the first locking formation by a locking member such as a padlock when the arm is in the first position and releasably locked to the second locking formation by the same member when the arm is in the second position.

Abstract: A trash container locking apparatus includes a housing which is secured to a surface of a trash container. The housing includes a pivot member rotatably mounted in an outer wall of the housing for rotation about a pivot axis and having an inner portion inside the housing and an outer portion outside the housing. A latch member is secured to the pivot member inside the housing. A swing arm secured to the pivot member outside the housing and associated with a locking bar which extends over a lid of the trash container. A latch paddle is pivotally mounted in the housing to hang vertically in a latch engaging position when the housing is mounted on the trash container. The latch member and latch paddle have interengaging formations which engage in a locking position to prevent the latch member and associated swing arm from rotating.

Abstract: An online product ordering system first displays images of different product categories, such as different types of padlocks, and then displays all product models available in a category when the user clicks on a selected category image. The user selects a product model and then customizes various aspects of the selected model. In the case of a padlock, the user can select a shackle type and bumper type from available options, with images of each option displayed to the user for selection purposes, and may order a customized plate with user entered text or other indicia. In the case of a padlock, the user may enter their existing key number and the padlock can be customized to open with the user's existing key.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for releasably securing the lid of a trash container in a closed position has a locking arm with an elongate central portion for extending across the closed lid and bent end portions pivotally mounted on opposite sides of the container via pivot brackets which allow the arm to be pivoted between a first position extending across the closed lid of the trash container and a second position extending across the front wall of the container. The pivot bracket on one side is part of a locking device which has first and second locking formations on opposite sides of the pivot bracket, and the bent end portion of the arm on that side is releasably locked to the first locking formation by a locking member such as a padlock when the arm is in the first position and releasably locked to the second locking formation by the same member when the arm is in the second position.

Abstract: A rainwater collection system for supplying water to a toilet includes a gutter, water reservoir tank, excess water output conduit, toilet, and water bypass assembly for diverting water out through the water output conduit when the water reservoir tank is sufficiently full.

Abstract: A locking apparatus for releasably securing the lid of a trash container in a closed position has a locking arm with an elongate central portion and bent end portions pivotally mounted on opposite side walls of the container for movement between a first position in which the central portion extends across a front wall of the container and a second position in which the central portion extends over the lid to hold it closed. The central portion is initially adjustable in length to accommodate different size containers. The arm is lockable in both the first and the second position.