Abstract: A molded panel for buildings is manufactured in a manner that permits the blocking tab along the upper edge of the panel to be molded in a position that is close to its final desired position. Pressure is applied to the locking tab as it cools, thereby bringing the locking tab into its final position.

Abstract: The present invention provides exterior building products, such as roofing and siding, shake, shingles, siding, sheathing, panels, planks, vertical siding, soffit panels, fencing, decking, fascia, corner posts, column corners and trim boards in which a plurality of cementitious layers are provided with an improved interlaminar bond by employing a resinous bond promoter, a rheological agent, mechanical means to distribute fibers in a direction which is perpendicular to the machine direction so as to bridge between layers in the product, or a combination thereof. These techniques help to increase interlaminar bond strength to improve the mechanical properties of the product. When certain resinous bond promoters are used, the additional benefits of water absorption resistance and pigmentation throughout the product can be provided with minimal expense. Improvements in interlaminar bond strength of about 10–46% were observed with a percent elongation improvement of about 7%.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for assembling and disassembling pipe. The device has a drive mechanism that be used to either assemble or disassemble pipe. The drive mechanism has two independent traction drives that can independently impart longitudinal forces on a pipe, either in the same or opposing directions. The drive unit can thus transport pipe or can facilitate the assembly of pipe from modular units or the disassembly of pipe into modular units. The method includes pulling or pushing pipe from the field from a fixed location with a traction device.

Abstract: A dental instrument has a concave central section to facilitate end-to-end rotation during use. First and second ends of the instrument extend axially from the central section. At least one of the ends interfaces with a dental device such as a mirror or tip. The ends are configured for a smooth transition from adjacent end to the respective device.

Abstract: The present invention provides exterior building products, such as roofing and siding, shake, shingles, siding, sheathing, panels, planks, vertical siding, soffit panels, fencing, decking, fascia, comer posts, column comers and trim boards in which a plurality of cementitious layers are provided with an improved interlaminar bond by employing a resinous bond promoter, a rheological agent, mechanical means to distribute fibers in a direction which is perpendicular to the machine direction so as to bridge between layers in the product, or a combination thereof. These techniques help to increase interlaminar bond strength to improve the mechanical properties of the product. When certain resinous bond promoters are used, the additional benefits of water absorption resistance and pigmentation throughout the product can be provided with minimal expense. Improvements in interlaminar bond strength of about 10-46% were observed with a percent elongation improvement of about 7%.

Abstract: A multipurpose tool to facilitate installation of deck construction includes a main body portion having at least one structural feature that defines a plane. At least one flange is coupled to the main body portion and is oriented substantially perpendicular to the plane. The flange may be used to maintain consistent spacing between decking planks during assembly. The tool also may be used to strike lines, space fasteners, maintain baluster spacing, identify distances and angles, and indicate levels.

Abstract: A multipurpose tool to facilitate installation of deck construction includes a main body portion having at least one structural feature that defines a plane. At least one flange is coupled to the main body portion and is oriented substantially perpendicular to the plane. The flange may be used to maintain consistent spacing between decking planks during assembly. The tool also may be used to strike lines, space fasteners, maintain baluster spacing, identify distances and angles, and indicate levels.

Abstract: A process for improving the strength of components manufactured from sialon comprising heating and components at a temperature of from about 750.degree. to 950.degree. C. for from about eight to thirty-six hours in an oxygen-containing atmosphere.

Abstract: Methods for treating plants and fields in agricultural applications are provided by selective delivery of superheated steam. Particularly preferred applications include delivery adjacent to grape vine leaves in order to defoliate basal leaves and to kill localized insect pests, and by injecting superheated steam in strawberry beds prior to planting to kill nematodes. The superheated steam is delivered at temperatures in excess of about 250° F.

Abstract: Methods for treating plants and fields in agricultural applications are provided by selective delivery of superheated steam. Particularly preferred applications include delivery adjacent to grape vine leaves in order to defoliate basal leaves and to kill localized insect pests, and by injecting superheated steam in strawberry beds prior to planting to kill nematodes. The superheated steam is delivered at temperatures in excess of about 250° F.