Abstract: A directional noise-cancelling and sound detection system and method for sound targeted hearing and imaging is donned on the ears. The system provides a microphone array that selectively focuses on audio signals from at least one sound source to enable selective listening to the audio signal and directional noise cancelling, including actively reducing background sounds. The system provides an image capturing device that works in tandem with the microphone array to generate images of, and enable viewing of, the sound source. The system also allows the audio signal and the image to be captured from a 360° range relative to the earpiece. A processor operatively connects to the microphone array and the image capturing device to analyze the audio signal and the image for selectively listening, restricting, and adjusting the intensity of sound. A digital display control unit regulates selection, intensity, and restriction of sound transmitted through the earpiece.

Abstract: A self-watering portable greenhouse is disclosed having a tubular frame constructed of light-weight, water-tight tubular members which serves as a combined structural skeleton for external walls, a platform for plant containers, and a reservoir for liquid nutrients provided to plants in plant containers by self-watering through a wick connecting the reservoir and the plant containers.

Abstract: A self-watering portable greenhouse is disclosed having a tubular frame constructed of light-weight, water-tight tubular members which serves as a combined structural skeleton for external walls, a platform for plant containers, and a reservoir for liquid nutrients provided to plants in plant containers by self-watering through a wick connecting the reservoir and the plant containers.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a twin tank water treatment system and method. The water treatment system includes first tank with a first set of sensors and a first resin bed, a second tank with a second set of sensors and a second resin bed, and a valve assembly with a flow meter and a controller in communication with the first set of sensors, the second set of sensors, and the flow meter. The method includes determining when the resin beds are exhausted based on input from the flow meter, the sensors, and a water hardness setting.

Abstract: A holiday decoration includes first and second strands, at least one of which is a covered strand of lights. The covering may be a strip of flexible material with lights projecting outwardly from the covering. In one form, the covering is a folded strip having apertures through which the lights project and overlaying side edge portions which are joined together. In another form, first and second flexible strips of material are sandwiched together and joined along their respective side edge portions with lights projecting outwardly through gaps between the side edge portions. One of the strands is mounted to an upright surface, such as of a window pane, and positioned to outline the shape of a tree or other holiday symbol. The other strand is mounted to the surface and is positioned primarily within the boundary defined by the first strand.

Abstract: A watch with a face disposed over a watch module with a display presenting a plurality of functions is described. The watch face preferably is rigid and transparent and includes tactile portions that may be depressed to activate the functions that are presented on the display. The watch face has four tactile portions to activate four primary functions. The watch face can also be pressed in between the tactile portions to activate a four secondary functions. In a preferred embodiment, the watch face is secured to the module and module is mounted at a central pivot point in a base. The watch module has switches on its edge, one beneath each tactile portion, and a flexible seal that creates a waterproof region around the switches. The flexible seal also includes knobs, one for each switch, which close the associated switch when the associated tactile portion is depressed. A platform prevents straight-down depression of the watch that could cause more than two switches to close.

Abstract: A bodyboard is provided having a top riding surface with a centralized torso-supporting region of generally hourglass shape and perimetric purchase-enhancing region which surrounds the torso-supporting region.

Abstract: An article-carrying bag includes a first bag having a top defining a first bag opening, a closed bottom, and a central body portion extending between the top and bottom, a second bag having a top defining a second bag opening, a bottom, and a central body portion extending between the top and bottom, and a joinder line connecting the top of the first bag adjacent the bottom of the second bag such that the bags are capable of being configured in plural configurations including one in which the first bag extends away from the second bag and both openings face the same direction for defining a singular enclosure for receiving and holding articles, and another configuration in which the first bag may be stuffed into the second bag so the bag openings face opposite directions for defining separate enclosures for receiving and holding articles. Each separate enclosure prevents its respective held articles from commingling with articles in the other enclosure.

Abstract: A valve closing mechanism comprises a stand-off arm (18) adapted for attachment to the valve body, a lever arm (22) incorporating a fitting (24) for connection to the valve spindle (16), and an actuator (26) acting between the stand-off arm (18) and the lever arm (22) for effecting angular oscillatory movement of the lever arm, said fitting comprising a one-way drive transmitting arrangement whereby the spindle is rotated when the lever arm is displaced in one direction but remains stationary when the lever arm is displaced in the opposite direction.