Abstract: An extension ladder having a base section having a first base rail and a second base rail in parallel and spaced relationship with the first base rail and rungs attached to and between the first and second base rails. The extension ladder having a fly section having a first fly rail and a second fly rail in parallel and spaced relationship with the first fly rail and rungs attached to and between the first and second fly rails. The fly section in sliding engagement with the base section. The extension ladder having a force applicator attached to the base section and the fly section which offsets some or all weight of the fly section. A method for using an extension ladder. A method for manufacturing an extension ladder.

Abstract: A system for selectively supplying either a first or second diluent to a beverage dispensing valve is characterized by a manifold having first and second diluent outlet ports. Two different selection fittings plug, one at a time, into the manifold outlet ports. One, a first diluent selection fitting, when plugged into the manifold outlet ports delivers the first diluent from the manifold first diluent outlet port to the beverage valve while simultaneously closing the manifold second diluent outlet port. The other, a second diluent selection fitting, when plugged into the manifold outlet ports delivers the second diluent from the manifold second diluent outlet port to the beverage valve while simultaneously closing the manifold first diluent outlet port. The two selection fittings are keyed to connect with the manifold in one orientation only, so neither can be used to serve the purpose of the other.

Abstract: An ice dispensing chute mechanism is characterized by an ice chute adapted for attachment at an upper ice inlet end to an ice retaining bin at an ice outlet from the bin. An actuating arm is pivotally mounted on the ice chute and has a lower end for being contacted and moved by a receptacle into which ice is to be dispensed from a lower ice discharge end of the chute and an upper end for contacting and moving a linkage mechanism upon rotation of the actuating arm by the receptacle. The linkage mechanism is pivotally mounted on the ice chute and is coupled to an ice gate that is linearly moved by the linkage mechanism between open and closed positions that establish and interrupt communication between the upper inlet to the chute and the ice outlet opening from the bin.