Abstract: A ladder stand includes a ladder, a platform, an optional seat, a tree engagement bracket, straps and strap diverter guides. The straps can be crisscrossed around the rear of the tree and extend forwardly to respective strap diverter guides. These guides can redirect the straps from a generally acute angle relative to the ladder to an orientation substantially parallel to the ladder, with the lower portions of the straps extending downwardly along the ladder. One or more tensioners can provide tension in the straps, thereby pulling the bracket into the tree under significant force to provide safe and stable securement of the ladder stand to the tree. The strap tensioning can be accomplished by a user on the ground, without ever having to climb the ladder or secure any additional straps to the tree. A related method of use is provided.

Abstract: A process for forming a composite piston of at least two materials, preferably a rigid material and an elastic material, the materials being chemically fused in a modular mold, and the plunger formed thereby. The process comprising injection molding one of the rigid material and elastic material in a mold to form a first piston part; forming a cavity in the mold adjacent the first piston part; injection molding the other of the rigid material and plastic material in the cavity to form a second piston part in contact with the first piston part; and removing the piston having a rigid part and an elastic part from said mold. Upon opening of the mold, complete, finished pistons are presented. The material for forming the elastic part preferably includes a lubricant. The process reduces assembly costs, quality control concerns, and contamination due to human contact.

Abstract: This invention relates to hydraulic actuating mechanism for a valve gated injection molding system wherein the enlarged head of the valve pin is removably connected to the piston and a floating seal is provided against the leakage of hydraulic fluid. The actuating mechanism has a piston which is reciprocated in a cylinder between open and closed positions. The valve pin extends through a bore in the piston and has an enlarged head which is retained in a cup in the piston by a circular cap which fits over it. The cap is held in position between a removable resilient retaining ring which snaps into a groove and a compressible O-ring. Thus, both a seal against leakage and an easily releasable connection between the valve pin and the piston are provided by the combination of the resilient retaining ring and the O-ring.