Abstract: The present invention includes an inventive pigtail fastener and the associated method of attaching line thereto. The pigtail fastener is comprised of an elongated shaft at the proximal end of the device and a tightly coiled portion of the shaft at the distal end of the device. The pigtail fastener is constructed and arranged in such a manner so as to provide an amount of tension sufficient to pinch and thereby secure a quantity of line between the coiled portion and the shaft. The tension being provided as a result of the narrow confines of the space between the shaft and the coiled portion or alternatively as a result of the coiled portion being biased against a portion of the shaft.

Abstract: An electroluminescent display includes thin conductive strips on a phosphor-deposited area. One aspect of the invention is directed to a device including a dielectric carrier supporting a first conductive bus connecting to first conductors and a second conductive bus connecting to second conductors. The first and second conductors are arranged in close proximity to one another, so that a phosphor-based carrier can be located therebetween to permit an electric field set up by a voltage applied between the first and second conductors to generate light via the phosphors. A dielectric layer disposed between the conductors enhances the brightness of the light generated. The electroluminescent display can be incorporated as part of a mirror or liquid crystal device.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for use in internal surgical procedures and is particularly advantageous for use in laparoscopic surgical procedures. An example implementation is directed to a tool having a depth-adjustable cannula having an upper portion that rests on the body, and having an automatically-sealing channel that readily accepts the insertion and removal of surgical instruments without permitting gases to pass. In one particular embodiment, the tool includes a low-profile platform for stabilizing the tool on a body layer, a projection channel with a flexible sleeve for maintaining the channel closed, and an adjustable member for setting the penetration depth of the tool. The flexible sleeve is sufficiently elastic to close the inner channel in response to pressurization between the outside of the flexible sleeve and the inner surface of the hollow channel. The low-profile platform and the adjustable member permit use of the same tool for different body-wall thicknesses.

Abstract: Devices and methods for removing snow are disclosed. A snow removal device in accordance with the present invention includes an elongate handle having a distal end and a proximal end, and a flexible sheet having a leading edge and a leading portion proximate the leading edge. The leading portion of the flexible sheet is fixed to the elongate handle proximate the distal end thereof. The flexible sheet has a first position defining a gliding surface, and a second position wherein the flexible sheet is substantially flat. The flexible sheet is, preferably, biased to assume the first position.

Abstract: An electroluminescent display includes thin conductive strips on a phosphor-deposited area. One aspect of the invention is directed to a device including a dielectric carrier supporting a first conductive bus connecting to first conductors and a second conductive bus connecting to second conductors. The first and second conductors are arranged in close proximity to one another, so that a phosphor-based carrier can be located therebetween and thereover to permit an electric field set up by a voltage applied between the first and second conductors to generate light via the phosphor. The device can be incorporated into a circuit board, integrated circuit or other contoured parts.

Abstract: A ferrule for insertion in an opening cut through a vertebral spinous process functions as a guide for a connecting cable, preventing cutting into the bone by the cable and protecting the cable from breakage.

Abstract: An apparatus for generating a beam of light with a perceived beam having constant brightness comprising a flashlight apparatus having a parabolically shaped reflector, and the flashlight apparatus also having a equal-sided rotating hexagon present along the axis of the reflector. The outside surfaces of the hexagon are covered with a mirror-like surface for deflecting the light rays emanating from a light source located at the focus of a reflector in a changing pattern as the hexagon rotates about its axis, which is perpendicular to the reflector axis. The changing light pattern eliminates a dark area of the beam from the flashlight as the changing pattern directs light rays across the dark area as the hexagon rotates.

Abstract: An air bag cover includes a thermoplastic front cover adapted to enclose an uninflated air bag, a tear seam defined in the rear inner surface of the air bag cover for permitting the deployment of the air bag, and a filler bead comprising a second thermoplastic material that forms a bond with the tear seam, wherein the bond breaks upon deployment of the air bag.

Abstract: A shift mechanism for conditioning a transmission assembly of an off-highway implement. The transmission assembly includes a clutch assembly having a manually actuated clutch pedal for facilitating shifting of the transmission from a neutral condition to any of a plurality of drive conditions. The shift mechanism includes a shift lever mounted for movement toward and away from a neutral position corresponding to the neutral condition of the transmission assembly and a shifting assembly connected to the transmission assembly and mounted for movement along a predetermined path of travel. The shifting assembly is moved in response to shifting movements of the shift lever from for conditioning the transmission assembly into any of the plurality of drive conditions depending on the direction of movement of the shift lever.

Abstract: A single lever directional control system for positively conditioning a tractor transmission for either a forward or reverse mode of operation. The control system includes a controller for engaging the transmission in either of two modes of operation as a function of the electrical signals directed to the controller, an electrical switch for directing electrical signals to the controller as a function of the operative state of the switch, and an over-center control lever for controlling the operative state of the switch. The over-centering of the control lever positively positions the lever in either of two positions corresponding to the two modes of operation of the transmission. Precise shifting of the transmission is facilitated by configuring the control lever for movement in two distinct directions of movement to shift the transmission.