Abstract: A hydroponic growing system is provided having a growing pot and a root distribution plate. The growing pot has a wall portion defining an elevationally-extending concavity. The root distribution plate has an outer periphery configured to be fitted in substantially level conformity within the concavity at a position elevated from a bottommost portion of the concavity and an array of raised root barriers subdividing a top surface of the root distribution plate into a plurality of distinct root beds. A method is also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides bearing systems characterized by single point contact with each jewel segment and a spring-loaded assembly with protection from radial and thrust forces. An important feature of jewel bearings of the invention is that they are self-lubricating, i.e., no oil or grease lubricants are needed. This can be a major advantage in medical and precision equipment. A secondary important feature is the reduced friction and effective heat-dissipation due to the unique design of the invention with significant reduction in contact surfaces and friction, which significantly prolong the lifespan of the bearings. Another advantage of the present invention is the substantial reduction in audible noise due to the unique design. Furthermore, the invention allows the use of relatively low cost synthetic jewel segments in bearings.

Abstract: The invention provides bearing systems characterized by single point contact with each jewel segment and a spring-loaded assembly with protection from radial and thrust forces. An important feature of jewel bearings of the invention is that they are self-lubricating, i.e., no oil or grease lubricants are needed. This can be a major advantage in medical and precision equipment. A secondary important feature is the reduced friction and effective heat-dissipation due to the unique design of the invention with significant reduction in contact surfaces and friction, which significantly prolong the lifespan of the bearings. Another advantage of the present invention is the substantial reduction in audible noise due to the unique design. Furthermore, the invention allows the use of relatively low cost synthetic jewel segments in bearings.

Abstract: A plastic, wooden or aluminum storage box that is mounted to the rear interior wall of a pickup truck or in a trunk of a vehicle and functions as a single compact storage container for vehicle specific accessories.

Abstract: A portable boat dock consisting of a modified "H" shaped platform adapted to reside substantially underwater, the platform having attached to it two upwardly protruding arms with cradle members attached to engage opposite sides of a boat to be docked. The platform lower portion consists of a pair of spaced apart angled legs adapted to penetrate a distance into the lake bottom to secure the platform. Holding the platform upright is an attached elongated tongue, the tongue also operably attached to a front holding stake driven into the ground at the shoreline of the lake, the stake also containing a ring to receive a rope from the bow of the boat to secure the boat. The invention may be easily placed into the lake and removed by utilizing connecting pins which permit separation of the platform from the tongue and from the front stake. Various lake depths are accounted for by telescoping legs and various sized boats are accommodated by spreading or narrowing the angle between the upright cradle members.