Abstract: This invention is a device for the prevention of thumb and finger sucking that utilizes a vacuum-breaking device such as a cylinder that is placed over one or more fingers or the thumb and prevents the formation of a sucking vacuum by utilizing air passages in or between the vacuum-breaking cylinder and the thumb or fingers. The vacuum-breaking cylinder is secured to the hand by means of a wrist band and a suitable means, such as one or more straps, for connecting the vacuum-breaking cylinder to the wrist band.

Abstract: There is disclosed an installable and centralized self-contained, appliance-like fluid dispensing system for selectively dispensing combinations of fluids or fluid and liquid dispersants. The system includes a centralized housing assembly housing sources of liquid dispersant, pumping devices, valve arrangements, manually controlled system devices and arrangement for providing compressed air to a hand held device.

Abstract: A tilting reversible belt transfer mechanism includes a cradle frame pivotally mounted across a conveyor frame and having belt supporting sheaves on opposite sides, an idler sheave at one end, and a drive sheave at the other end. A diverter belt is supported on the sheaves with transfer portions extending along upper edges of the frame sides. A conveyor roller is geared to the drive sheave and engaged by a power takeoff belt engaging a line shaft of the conveyor. As the drive sheave rotates, the transfer portions of the belt travel in opposite transverse directions. A linear motor arrangement is connected between the cradle frame and the conveyor frame and is operated to pivot the cradle frame in opposite directions about a non-divert position to lift a respective one of the belt transfer portions above the conveyor surface plane to engage and article and move it in an associated transverse direction.

Abstract: A stake and coupler for holding an irrigation device, such as a sprinkler, for use in a home gardening watering system. The stake is an elongated plastic body having a substantially constant multilobed crosssection. One end of the stake has a projection for mounting an irrigation device, the other end a pointed tip for anchoring the stake in the ground. The coupler is a hollow plastic body, both ends of which contain identical openings and which will receive either end of the stake for joining two stakes together.

Abstract: A conveyor system includes a conveyor and an article retarder for slowing or stopping articles on the conveyor. The retarder comprises a trigger, a first switch engageable b the trigger when the trigger is struck by an article, a second switch connected to the first switch and to an actuator and a brake engaged by activation of the actuator. The first and second switch include a time delay such that, when triggered, the actuator engages the brake and after a predetermined period of time, the actuator disengages the brake thereby allowing the article to continue along the conveyor at a reduced speed.

Abstract: A hole cutter for plastic tubing comprising a pair of opposed members pivotally joined at one end thereof, means between said opposed members for limiting their separation in open position, recesses within the opposed members for gripping a tube and a hollow cylindrical blade rotatably mounted on one of the opposed members, adapted upon rotation to cut a hole in a tube gripped in the cutter.

Abstract: A timed water shut-off device of the type primarily useful for home gardens and lawns. The device comprises a water conduit containing a ball valve, a timer and timer housing rotatably mounted on the conduit and a plunger directly linking the timer and ball valve to permit flow of water for a preselected time.