Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, are described for implementing an unmanned aerial vehicle or drone with ducted fans. The drone includes a housing having a first surface and multiple ducts that each extend from the first surface to a second surface of the housing. The first surface is substantially flat. A respective fan assembly is installed in each of the ducts. The drone includes an internal cavity at a location intermediate two respective ducts and circuitry positioned in the internal cavity. The circuitry is operable to generate control signals used to operate the respective fan assemblies.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are described for manufacturing Ebonex® articles such as rods and tiles from titanium oxide precursors. The precursors are held within the interior space of a kiln and heated in a reducing gas. The precursors are held so that the reducing gas is able to fully envelop them. In a preferred embodiment, the precursors are hung from a support within the kiln. The temperature of the kiln is also controlled to limit the initial heating of the kiln and to maintain the kiln within a predetermined range of operating temperatures.

Abstract: The invention provides an umbrella for attachment to a stroller that is large enough to protect the caregiver wheeling the stroller, carriage, or wheelchair from rain, wind and precipitation. The umbrella is wind proof, and attaches to the stroller by clamping its central shaft to the stroller. A counterweight is attached to the handle end of the central shaft. The umbrella has a double layered canopy that allows wind to pass through without inverting the umbrella, and may have a telescoping shaft to permit it to be stored compactly.

Abstract: The invention provides an igloo-shaped structure formed from a plurality of rectangular shaped blocks having a rim and a trough molded therein. The rim has pins adjacent the corners of the blocks that engage apertures or holes fastening plates. Each fastening plate has four holes to enable it to snap together four blocks. Subsequent rows of blocks may have smaller dimensions so that the assembly curves inward forming the familiar domed shape of an igloo. Curved trapezoidal shaped blocks, also held together with fastening plates, are used to cap off the dome.

Abstract: A two part cartridge having a photoconductor part (1) and a toner part (5) having no force biasing element on either part. The two parts fit together so that a developer roller (7) in the toner part contacts a photoconductor drum (3) in the other part. When the two parts are installed in a printer the cover (50), when closed, brings a spring (62) into contact with one side of the toner part while the frame (F) of the printer blocks movement away from the cover. An advantage of the two part cartridge is that the toner part can be replaced without replacing the photoconductor part. Members on the cartridge for force biasing are avoided and the need for training or skill to latch the parts together is avoided.

Abstract: A two part cartridge having a photoconductor part (1) and a toner part (5) having no force biasing element on either part. The two parts fit together so that a developer roller (7) in the toner part contacts a photoconductor drum (3) in the other part. When the two parts are installed in a printer the cover (50), when closed, brings a spring (62) into contact with one side of the toner part while the frame (F) of the printer blocks movement away from the cover. An advantage of the two part cartridge is that the toner part can be replaced without replacing the photoconductor part. Members on the cartridge for force biasing are avoided and the need for training or skill to latch the parts together is avoided.

Abstract: A building element suitable for use in supporting model building sets. The building element is configured to be removably secured to a plurality of like or similar building elements to form a modular substructure for supporting model building sets. To that end, the building element may include a plurality of connector fitting arrangements disposed on the surfaces of the building element. In one embodiment, the building element is configured to be separable into half-sections and quarter-sections.