Abstract: An apparatus is provided which comprises: a surface; a first photovoltaic layer formed on a first section of the surface; and a second photovoltaic layer formed on a second section of the surface, wherein a transparency of the first photovoltaic layer is different from a transparency of the second photovoltaic layer.

Abstract: An active stylus enables an electronic device to provide a user-friendly user input. The active stylus uses various sensors and feedback mechanisms to characterize or simulate the audible and haptic feedback associated with various writing instruments. The sensors capture pressure, speed, vibration, sound, and other characteristics of using a specific writing instrument on a given surface. This enables the active stylus to simulate the writing instrument accurately while avoiding increased haze and optical distortions due to etching or engineered film.

Abstract: A base for a slalom pole or ski pole having brush bristles extending from an acircular axially extending base, preferably having a polygonal or hexagonal configuration, the bristles extending from a circular surface adjoining a circular brush section. The base can also be used as a pole anchor.

Abstract: A base for a slalom pole or ski pole having brush bristles extending from an acircular axially extending base, preferably having a polygonal or hexagonal configuration, the bristles extending from a circular surface adjoining a circular brush section. The base can also be used as a pole anchor.

Abstract: A base for a slalom pole or ski pole having brush bristles extending from an acircular axially extending base, preferably having a polygonal or hexagonal configuration, the bristles extending from a circular surface adjoining a circular brush section. The base can also be used as a pole anchor.

Abstract: A gate panel attachment assembly having a pair of poles and a panel. The panel includes a pair of sleeves for accepting the poles. Adjacent to each sleeve, lies a mounting surface including a grommet in each. The attachment assembly includes an elastic cord and plastic button. The ends of the cord are fixed in an inner portion of the button. Once the poles are fed through each sleeve, a looped end of the elastic cord is stretched around each sleeved pole and extended over top of the button. The elastic cord rests between the button and grommet under tension creating a self-retaining system.

Abstract: A plurality of successively spaced notches are formed in a side edge of a metal strip by first and second adjustably positionable dies prior to roll forming of the strip to a formed configuration. After roll forming, fingers engage selected edges of the notches to detect a notch length dimension and a full part length dimension. Sensors detect the position of the fingers and generate output signals to a controller which generates an adjustment signal based on the switch conditions to adjustably position the first and second dies to accommodate any elongation of the metal strip during roll forming.

Abstract: An iceboat includes a hull and a perpendicular extending plank attached to the rear end of the hull. Side struts extend from outer ends of the plank to the forward portion of the hull. A mast is mounted on each side strut at a position rearward of the occupant cockpit in the hull and supports a sail. Skates are attached to the front end of the hull and to the outer ends of the plank.

Abstract: A fixed or self-redressing delineator pole comprising a lower portion for insertion into a support structure and an upper portion which serves as a marker such as for a slalom gate, a parking lot, a field, or a road. The delineator pole uses an impact absorbing material over a rigid or semi-rigid inner tube to create a cushioned extended surface which absorbs impact. Ski racing, for example, involves full contact between skiers travelling at high rates of speed and the slalom poles resulting in numerous injuries to the skier and damage to the pole. This delineator pole reduces injury to the pole and other objects resulting from objects colliding with the pole.

Abstract: An apparatus for towing a multi-hull watercraft includes a pair of spaced, rigid, tubular members extending between the rear of a towing craft to a location between the two hulls of the towed watercraft. Swivel connectors having mating members mounted on the towed watercraft and the multi-hull watercraft and on the ends of the first and second tubular members connect the two craft together at a fixed longitudinal distance; but allow vertical, independent movement of the two watercraft relative to each other. A plurality of flexible cables are movably coupled between diagonally opposed ends of the tubular members and a centrally located ring connector to enable each of the watercraft to roll about their respective yaw axis independent of each other and to maintain the spacing between the tubular members constant along their length from the first ends to the second ends.