Abstract: A means for determining the electrical resistance and resistivity of thermoelectric material allows quality control at all steps in the construction of a bismuth telluride and antimony telluride thermoelectric generator. The method involves measuring negative thermoelectric voltage with no current flowing and then a measure of negative thermoelectric voltage while forcing known current through the material in the same direction as shorted to accurately determine thermoelectric resistance. A manual and automatic method of manufacturing thermoelectric rings using forcing current for in-process testing means.

Abstract: An improved circular multi-element semiconductor thermoelectric hybrid utilizes a make-before-break high frequency switching output component to provide nominal alternating current voltage outputs. Overall efficiency of heat conversion is improved by coupling a chiller to the thermoelectric generator where exhaust heat produces chilled liquid or air that is conveyed to the cold side of the thermoelectric device. The thermoelectric generator is used in a variety of transportation vehicles including manufactured vehicles, retrofitted vehicles and vehicle power combinations.

Abstract: A means for determining the electrical resistance and resistivity of thermoelectric material allows quality control at all steps in the construction of a bismuth telluride and antimony telluride thermoelectric generator. The method involves measuring negative thermoelectric voltage with no current flowing and then a measure of negative thermoelectric voltage while forcing known current through the material in the same direction as shorted to accurately determine thermoelectric resistance. A manual and automatic method of manufacturing thermoelectric rings using forcing current for in-process testing means.

Abstract: An improved circular multi-element semiconductor thermoelectric hybrid utilizes a make-before-break high frequency switching output component to provide nominal alternating current voltage outputs. Overall efficiency of heat conversion is improved by coupling a chiller to the thermoelectric generator where exhaust heat produces chilled liquid or air that is conveyed to the cold side of the thermoelectric device. The thermoelectric generator is used in a variety of transportation vehicles including manufactured vehicles, retrofitted vehicles and vehicle power combinations.

Abstract: High efficiency conversion of heat energy to electrical energy is achieved using a ring of metallic components and anodically sliced, reduced barriers, high purity n-type and p-type semiconductor wafers. Energy produced by heating one set of fins and cooling another set is extracted from a ring of bismuth telluride based n-type wafers and antimony telluride based p-type wafers using make-before-break control of MOSfet switch banks. Standard AC frequencies and DC output result from rectification of make-before-break high frequency switched very high currents in the ring and a DC to AC converter. Solar energy stored in porcelain fragments extends the time that solar energy can be used as the heat source for the thermoelectric generator device.

Abstract: A device including a charging component; a developing component; a transport component; a photoconductive component; and a radiant fusing component; wherein the development component contains a toner comprising at least one crystalline polymer, optionally an amorphous polymer, and at least one colorant.

Abstract: An improved torus multi-element semiconductor thermoelectric heater and chiller utilizes torus thermoelectric generator to provide high current to force heat flow. Overall efficiency of heat conversion is improved by coupling a thermoelectric generator directly to a torus heater and chiller. A thermoelectric generator exhaust heat drives a second thermoelectric generator connected to a thermoelectric heater and chiller to produce heat flow in the heater and chiller using air, gas, or liquid to convey heat into and away from the thermoelectric device.

Abstract: An improved torus multi-element semiconductor thermoelectric hybrid utilizes a make-before-break high frequency switching output component to provide nominal alternating current voltage outputs. Overall efficiency of heat conversion is improved by coupling a chiller to the thermoelectric generator where exhaust heat produces chilled liquid or air that is conveyed to the cold side of the thermoelectric device.

Abstract: This invention describes compositions of meltable organic acid and carbonate salt suitable for providing effervescence when dissolved in water and protection for additional ingredients from oxidation or reaction with atmospheric moisture during storage. In the production of stable chlorine tablets citric acid is melted then mixed with powdered carbonate and the viscous combination then combined with hypochlorite producing compounds such as calcium hypochlorite or halazone to form stable forms suitable for use in disinfecting applications. Melted acid-bicarbonate mixtures are used to make instant carbonated drinks wherein evolved carbonate is trapped in a closed container to improve the level of carbonation.

Abstract: A plant package for an artificial aquarium plant including a card member having a front face and a shaped shell member affixed to the front face by a peripheral bonding flange. The shell member has an upper section including a plant base holding pocket with a top edge. The top edge is free of the card member. The bottom portion of the plant base holding pocket is shaped to confine a base of the artificial aquarium plant with the top portion being restricted and shaped to overlay and support one or more plant stems of the artificial aquarium plant. A lower section of the shell member is designed with raised ridges reinforcing the shell member and defining an indicia window portion.

Abstract: Foods, food ingredients, and cooked foods are preserved by the application of pressure of at least 70 MPa (10,000 psi) for more than twelve hours. Some meat and seafood requires maintenance of pressure for the duration of storage and most can be held in good condition without spoiling for more than 1 month. For some fruits and vegetables ripening is stopped by the pressure treatment and packaged products can be stored without refrigeration for at least 6 months while other fruits and vegetables are preserved by 5 day pressure treatment at 175 Mpa (25,000 psi). Meat and seafood is preserved by pressure treatment in various marinades. Because no heat is used foods retain much of their firmness and texture.

Abstract: A small animal globular housing and exercise module including a main body which is formed by two hemispherical body pieces fabricated from a transparent thermoplastic material. A lid opening, large enough to accommodate a human hand, is formed in one of the body pieces and a lid removably closing the lid opening is provided. Ventilation openings of sufficient size and number to allow for air passage through the module are provided. A pair of through openings are formed opposite to each other and are positioned along and split by a division plane defining the two hemispheres for possible passage of small animals therethrough, each opening having an outwardly protruding portion. Annular connecting rings engage the protruding portions of each opening passage and hold the two body pieces together. A pair of bubble caps are engaged by a side of each annular ring opposite to a side engaging the protruding portions of the through openings.

Abstract: A small animal connectible play cube system which includes several connectible small animal play cubes, each cube having at least one surface formed with a large plurality of small through openings and at least one other surface with a single large opening, and an attaching adaptor for each pair of cubes, the adaptor having structure on opposite sides for attaching the adaptor to the large opening of the at least one other surface. The cubes are connectible together in various configurations depending upon which surfaces are attached by the adaptors. The invention can further include a slide member which is connectible to the small through openings on the one surface of the cube. The slide member can be a first type slide member having a straight longitudinal axis. Also, the slide member can be a second type slide member having a curved longitudinal axis. The second type slide member describes a spiral extending through 270.degree..

Abstract: A small animal visual burrowing module which includes a main burrowing enclosure body having an interior space defined by opposite walls spaced a short distance apart. The burrowing enclosure body is formed by two symmetrical body pieces. The main burrowing enclosure body has an open bottom, with a wire grate mounted across the open bottom. Two generally horizontal intermediate floors are symmetrically formed in the body pieces. Each body piece including at least one laterally extended viewing window. Ventilation openings of sufficient size and number to allow for air passage through the module are provided. A plurality of through openings are provided in the walls of the enclosure body, for the passage of small animals therethrough, with each opening having an outwardly protruding portion. The through openings are positioned along and split by a division plane defining the two symmetrical body pieces.

Abstract: A decorative simulated tree branch system for small animal enclosures made from thermoplastic. The branch is non-toxic, non-leaching, mite and contamination proof, washable, and waterproof, and a realistic representation of a natural tree branch or piece of drift wood. It is formed from a branch base portion and progressively smaller tributary segments which are approximately cylindrical in shape, and may taper as they extend toward the outer ends, as is the case with a natural branch. One preferred embodiment is well suited as a decorative ornament in fish tanks. A second preferred embodiment adapts the present invention for use as a natural looking perch in bird cages. A universal clip, capable of securely attaching the simulated branch to any type of bird cage bar may be provided with the bird perch embodiment.

Abstract: A shelf system which provides a decorative ornament for use inside of aquariums or terrariums. A rigid planar sheet is provided with a means for removable attachment to the inside surface of the wall of an aquarium at any height along the wall. The attachment means does not alter the ability of the wall to hold water in the aquarium while maintaining a secure attachment to the inner surface of the aquarium wall. The shelf may be provided with ornamentation, particularly a decorative texture on the outer edge and it may be provided with a supporting column.

Abstract: The present invention is a an aquarium air valve system and hanger unit for control of air entering an aquarium. The valve system has one or more valves thereon and is provided with a means for controlling the air flow from each valve. The valve system is mounted to the outer surface of the top wall of a hanger unit. The top wall is of adjustable size in order to allow secure fit over a variety of types of aquarium top frames. A valve system cover may also be provided in order to protect the valve system from accumulating metallics and debris.

Abstract: A habitat system for use in small animal enclosures providing desirable living space for underwater, amphibious and land dwelling animals. The habitat is formed from a wall type structure with one side which is essentially concave, thereby forming a gap space behind the wall. The habitat system is removeably attachable to the inner wall surface of the animal enclosure. Surface decoration may be provided on at least one wall of the habitat system, and various component parts may be intermeshed in a variety of ways in order to form multiple configurations.

Abstract: An assembly which is used with an undergravel aquarium filter in order to keep the passage between the bottom cavity under the filter and the uptake tube free from blockage due to gravel. The assembly is in the form of a collar which extends from the bottom plate of the undergravel filter at the point of insertion of the uptake tube. A ring, with a structure to prevent the passage of gravel through the central portion thereof is fitted within the collar. The ring may be removed from the collar to clear gravel out from the collar before insertion of the uptake tube.