Abstract: This invention relates to a series of treatments, both physical and chemical, to plant biomass resulting in the production of ethanol, lignin, and a high protein animal feed supplement. In plants having a high silica content, a fourth product is obtained, silica/caustic oxide (silicates solution, waterglass.) Both the 5-Carbon and 6-Carbon sugars are fermented to ethanol using an existing closed-loop fermentation system employing a genetically engineered thermophilic bacteria developed by Agrol, Ltd. The lignin and absolute ethanol are mixed producing a high energy fuel.

Abstract: A releasable bolt lock for two position safety firearms which can be actuated separate from the safety lever and which allows the unloading of the rifle with the safety in the "safe" or "on" position.

Abstract: A racket stringing machine utilizing an improved retaining standard for securing a racket to be strung in a fixed position. The retaining standard includes a vise portion and a clamp portion. The clamp portion has an attached rod that fits into a hole in the vise. The clamp portion serves to maintain the racket to be strung in a fixed position on the vise. The vise also includes a slot into which a dog is inserted. The dog bears against the clamp rod and fixes it in a particular location. A handle having a cam portion is also provided. The cam portion of the handle engages the dog so as to allow selective engagement with the clamp rod. Additionally, frame retainers of different sizes and shapes are provided that allow rackets of various configurations to be strung with the same stringing machine.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for extracting large form panels used in forming floor slabs on poured-in-place, multi-story concrete structures from beneath the slab they last formed. The preferred embodiment apparatus, called a panel picker, includes a frame held by a crane above and adjacent to the last formed slab; the frame is anchored to the slab and contains hoists on movable trolleys for attaching to and lifting the form panel. The movement of the trolleys permits attachment to the panel picker to be made in two steps and without the panel being unsupportedly cantilevered out to where a crane could attach directly to the panel.

Abstract: A bolt-action firearm, of the type having a bolt rotatably movable between closed and open positions, has an improved bolt latch mechanism which is operable independently of a safety mechanism. The latch locks the bolt in closed position automatically when the firing pin is cocked, and releases the bolt upon firing. The latch mechanism is recessed in the bolt plug in such fashion that it is readily visible and accessible, yet does not interfere with normal manual operation of the firearm, and does not protrude so that it might readily be displaced accidentally. In one embodiment, the latch may be manually displaced to or from a disabled position, in which it is releasably detented.

Abstract: An automatic flushing and cleaning system for membrane separation machines such as reverse osmosis machines having plural modules or membranes. Cleaning may be by way of reducing the pressure to allow the membrane to relax, by the injection of air or inert gas to provide turbulence, and/or by injection of flushing liquid which may include chemical cleaning additives. Pumps, automatic valving, and pressure controls are provided, along with a complete timer operated electrical sequencing system whereby desired purging, flushing and cleaning cycles are automatically undertaken at periodic intervals or in response to one or more preferred conditions.

Abstract: Porous, tubular core sections coated with a semipermeable membrane are joined at their ends by a simplified coupling member. Each coupling member or connector comprises a cylindrical flange member having circularly barbed or serrated nipples which fit tightly into the ends of bores of adjacent core sections. The ends of the cores abut against the circular part of the coupling member. Surrounding the joint thus formed is a flexible, elastomeric sealing sleeve. The nipples on the coupling member are axially slotted and have neck parts of a smaller diameter adjacent the body part of the coupling member providing annular openings between these neck parts and the bores of core members permitting continuous flow of permeate and cleaning solution without there being appendages, cavities, or pockets in which permeate or cleaning solution could be trapped.