Abstract: A two ply, synthetic drumhead for use in hand drums is created by using a laser to precisely remove excess material in the form of V-shaped notches from the peripheral portion of each layer disc of drumhead material prior to bonding and forming the drumhead sheet. After removal of the excess material, each layer disc has a peripheral edge consisting of equal size finger-like projections alternating with V-shaped notches. The layers are positioned so that the notches of one layer are covered by the projections of the other layer, producing a finished drumhead having a uniform exterior appearance and feel. The drumhead is tuned to duplicate the sound of a natural skin drumhead by positioning a damping element between the layer discs prior to bonding and assembly.

Abstract: A fastener for fastening a strap to an article having an end pin attached thereto, the fastener having a retention portion and an engagement portion defining a fastener aperture where movement of the engagement portion relative to the retention portion acts to close the fastener aperture about a reduced diameter portion of the end pin. A locking mechanism restricts movement of the engagement portion thereby maintaining the fastener aperture in its engagement position.

Abstract: A box for packaging products configured to enable the contents of the box to be removed and inspected by a customer without excessive wear and tear on the box and also to enable the display of the box.

Abstract: A quick release musical instrument strap attachment device comprising a strap attachment unit which comprises a female receiving quick release portion having base portion and a hollow body portion for receiving and locking a male quick release portion and a first cord having both ends thereof attached to the base portion of the female quick release portion to form a loop and a musical instrument attachment unit comprising a male quick release insertion unit which comprises a base portion and an insertion means adapted for insertion and locking into the hollow body portion of the female receiving quick release portion and a second cord having both ends thereof attached to the base portion of the male receiving quick release portion to form a loop. The strap attachment unit being attachable to a strap and the musical instrument attachment unit being attachable to a musical instrument.

Abstract: A conventional ultrasonic tube sealing device is modified for dissipating undesirable heat energy by locating in close proximity to a horn a heat sink block, causing via pneumatic means the heat exchange block to make contact with the horn only when the horn is in an open retracted position with respect to an anvil, and causing the heat exchange block to separate from the horn when the horn is in a closed sealing position with respect to the anvil. The heat exchange block cools the heat exchange block by drawing off undesirable heat energy, yet, by separating during the sealing mode, allows the horn to function properly and does not adversely affect its ultrasonic properties. The heat exchange block may be cooled by transporting through strategically located passageways an externally cooled fluid.

Abstract: An automated tube filling machine and process having a plurality of work stations, a rotating disc to deliver the tubes to the work stations and a central processing unit to control implementation of the work stations and rotation of the disc.