Abstract: A percussion instrument is muted by using a dampening layer to reduce the sound and acousti vibrations when struck. In one embodiment, the dampening layer is comprised of a layer of flexible plastic adhered to a cymbal surface. When the cymbal is struck, the dampening layer dissipates the normal vibrations of the cymbal without hampering the natural look, feel, playability, or natural swinging motion of the cymbal. In a second, preferred, embodiment, the dampening layer is a sandwich of adhesive layers and plastic layers.

Abstract: A percussion instrument is muted by using a dampening layer to reduce the sound and acousti vibrations when struck. In one embodiment, the dampening layer is comprised of a layer of flexible plastic adhered to a cymbal surface. When the cymbal is struck, the dampening layer dissipates the normal vibrations of the cymbal without hampering the natural look, feel, playability, or natural swinging motion of the cymbal. In a second, preferred, embodiment, the dampening layer is a sandwich of adhesive layers and plastic layers.

Abstract: A percussion cymbal instrument is muted by using a dampening layer to reduce the sound and acoustic vibrations when struck. In a preferred embodiment, the muting system is comprised of a layer of flexible plastic adhered to a cymbal surface. When the cymbal is struck, the muting system dissipates the normal vibrations of the cymbal without hampering the natural look, feel, playability, or natural swinging motion of the cymbal.

Abstract: A ring-shaped percussion transducer for converting a striking impact into a representative electrical pulse triggering signal is suitable for mounting on the center axis of a percussion instrument. In a preferred embodiment, the transducer is formed of a piezo electric material of ring shape; protected on the top and bottom by thinner ring shaped washers; enclosed in a protective coating and mounted along the center axis of a percussion device which when struck transmits vibrations to the percussion transducer. The percussion transducer is connected to conventional downstream electronics so as to produce a sound responsive to the striking impact.

Abstract: A hydroforming machine is disclosed which includes a plurality of dies with each die having an upper die plate hingedly connectable to and lockable with a lower die plate. Each upper die plate and lower die plate include an opening therethrough which are substantially alignable with each other. The hydroforming machine also includes a spacing device. The spacing device is disposed in mechanical cooperation with each of the dies and maintains a desired distance between each of the dies. The spacing device includes a plurality of hinges which hingedly connect each die with an adjacent die.

Abstract: In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a single piece blank for forming a container configured for use with a liquid impermeable bag having a valve assembly is provided. The blank includes a bottom panel, opposed side panels and a top panel, opposite the bottom panel. Bottom end panels are hingedly attached to the bottom panel at opposite ends of the bottom panel. Formed in one of the bottom end panels is a hinge panel. Also formed in the same bottom end panel is a substantially circular, removable panel. The substantially circular removable panel is generally positioned between the hinge panel and the bottom panel. Further, each side panel includes either a primary end panel or a secondary end panel, wherein the primary end panel is larger than the secondary end panel.

Abstract: A novel apparatus and method for controlling electronic devices, comprises a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver for communication between the apparatus and a user, a central processing unit (CPU) executing software for handling the conversion of an RF signal from the user into a two dimensional location (an X, Y coordinate system) and conversion into a series of remote control commands for transmission to a series of devices equipped for remote control is provided by which a user can control the electronic devices of an electronic system, for example a home entertainment system (which might include, by way of example, a television, a DSS or satellite receiver, a CD player, a video recorder, a video disc player, a radio tuner, an amplifier, a tape deck, an audio video preamplifier or a combination of one or more of the foregoing). The CPU also executes software which digitizes real time video and combines it with computer graphics for display.

Abstract: An apparatus controls electronic devices, via radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver for communication between the apparatus and a user, a central processing unit (CPU) executing software for handling the conversion of an RF signal from the user into a two dimensional location (an X, Y coordinate system) and conversion into a series of remote control commands for transmission to a series of devices equipped for remote control. The user can control the electronic devices of an electronic system, for example a home entertainment system (which might include, by way of example, a television, a DSS or satellite receiver, a CD player, a video recorder, a video disc player, a radio tuner, an amplifier, a tape deck, an audio video preamplifier or a combination of one or more of the foregoing). The CPU also executes software which digitizes real time video and combines it with computer graphics for display.