Abstract: A portable user interface device receives user inputs in two modes. The user interface device includes a central portion attached to two side portions. Relative rotation between the central portion and the side portions converts the user interface device between the two modes. In the first mode, the user interface device is suspended on the front of a user's torso. In the second mode, the user interface device may be placed on a substantially flat horizontal surface.

Abstract: A portable user interface device receives user inputs in two modes. The user interface device includes a central portion attached to two side portions. Relative rotation between the central portion and the side portions converts the user interface device between the two modes. In the first mode, the user interface device is suspended on the front of a user's torso. In the second mode, the user interface device may be placed on a substantially flat horizontal surface.

Abstract: A device and method for detecting anthrax or other pathogens are disclosed. Individual self-contained monitoring devices of a monitoring system can be portable or stationary (e.g. installed in air ducts or plumbing of buildings) and can be part of a network of devices. Monitoring devices may be used for the detection of a variety of airborne or surface pathogens, including but not limited to anthrax, smallpox, and Salmonella. Bioamplification-coupled proteomics assays provide rapid and reliable detection of pathogens, with self-checking capabilities reducing or eliminating false positives and false negatives. Sample preservation capability allows pathogen samples to be preserved after detection for further testing. The device of the invention can be remotely operated by minimally trained technicians or security personnel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for reading test strips such as lateral flow test strips as used for the testing of various chemicals in humans and animals. A compact and portable device is provided that may be battery powered when used remotely from the laboratory and, may store test data until it can be downloaded to another database. Motive power during scanning of the test strip is by means of a spring and damper that is wound by the operator during the insertion of a test strip cassette holder prior to test.

Abstract: A device and method for detecting anthrax or other pathogens are disclosed. Individual self-contained monitoring devices of a monitoring system can be portable or stationary (e.g. installed in air ducts or plumbing of buildings) and can be part of a network of devices. Monitoring devices may be used for the detection of a variety of airborne or surface pathogens, including but not limited to anthrax, smallpox, and Salmonella. Bioamplification-coupled proteomics assays provide rapid and reliable detection of pathogens, with self-checking capabilities reducing or eliminating false positives and false negatives. Sample preservation capability allows pathogen samples to be preserved after detection for further testing. The device of the invention can be remotely operated by minimally trained technicians or security personnel.

Abstract: A device and method for detecting anthrax or other pathogens are disclosed. Individual self-contained monitoring devices of a monitoring system can be portable or stationary (e.g. installed in air ducts or plumbing of buildings) and can be part of a network of devices. Monitoring devices may be used for the detection of a variety of airborne or surface pathogens, including but not limited to anthrax, smallpox, and Salmonella. Bioamplification-coupled proteomics assays provide rapid and reliable detection of pathogens, with self-checking capabilities reducing or eliminating false positives and false negatives. Sample preservation capability allows pathogen samples to be preserved after detection for further testing. The device of the invention can be remotely operated by minimally trained technicians or security personnel.

Abstract: At least one walking member is detachably connectable to an in-line skate to enable the wearer of the in-line skate to connect the walking member to the in-line skate, thus enabling the wearer to walk while wearing the in-line skate. Two walking members can be provided on alternative sides of the in-line skate wheels to provide a more stable platform for the wearer of the in-line skate. Since the two walking members are removable, the walking members do not detract from the aerodynamic and functional performance of the in-line skate, and can be manufactured together with the skate or, alternatively, can be added to the skate after purchase.

Abstract: A security system for securing personal property at a beach including two augers is provided. A pair of augers (15,16,50,100) are screwed into the sand. A crossbar (11,102) placed in loops (13,14,56) on the exposed ends of the augers. The crossbar is locked to the augers so that the augers may not be unscrewed from the sand. Items of personal property (31,140) may then be locked to the security device formed by the augers and crossbar.

Abstract: A security system for securing personal property at a beach including two augers is provided. A pair of augers (15,16,50,100) are screwed into the sand. A crossbar (11,102) placed in loops (13,14,56) on the exposed ends of the augers. The crossbar is locked to the augers so that the augers may not be unscrewed from the sand. Items of personal property (31,140) may then be locked to the security device formed by the augers and crossbar.

Abstract: A convertible furniture frame assembly (8) having a stationary base assembly (12) that supports at least one retractable supporting means (14, 16). This supporting means (14, 16) is used to support retractable furniture components (10a, 10b) as they are raised and lowered. The invention further incorporates at least one generally horizontal self standing support means (18) to stabilize the furniture frame assembly (8) and at least one torsion system (20, 20') that aids users in raising and lowering the furniture components (10a, 10b). The user is also aided by a self-energizing latching means (28) that automatically latches the retractable supporting means (14, 16) in its lowered position. The user is further convenienced by a retaining means that prevents loose articles on the furniture components (10a, 10b) from sliding into the base assembly (12) during retraction.

Abstract: A garage door operator which senses obstructions and takes corrective action before entrapment can occur. Yieldable gears are utilized as a failsafe mechanism such that when the applied torque exceeds certain limit, the gears disengage so that the garage door can be manually moved. The yieldable gears may also be disengaged by remote control or by hand. Solid state circuitry is provided to achieve soft starts and stops of the electric motor. Test circuitry is provided that tests the operational readiness of the electrical components by simulating an abnormal torque condition. During operation of the electric motor, the torque load is electronically calculated and if an abnormal torque load is encountered, the electric motor reverses direction.

Abstract: A security device for personal property at a beach includes two rods of a particular construction to permit ready mounting in loose soil or sand. A bar is formed to be attached readily between the two rods, so that neither rod can be turned to remove. A chain is secured at one end of the bar which prevents removal of the bar, and a padlock secures the chain to an item to be protected.

Abstract: A convertible furniture frame assembly having a stationary base assembly that supports at least one retractable supporting means. This supporting means is used to support retractable furniture components as they are raised and lowered. The invention further incorporates at least one generally horizontal self standing support means to stabilize the furniture frame assembly and at least one two-bar torsion system that aids users in raising and lowering the furniture components. The user is also aided by a self-energizing latching means that automatically latches the retractable supporting means in its lowered position. The user is further convenienced by a retaining means that prevents loose articles on the furniture components from sliding into the base assembly during retraction.

Abstract: Computer-controlled method and apparatus for automatic melt index testing, including a housing with a base carrying a heater block having a bore therein for receiving a metal cartridge. A cartridge carousel is rotatably carried on the base, and carries a plurality of such cartridges, each cartridge having a plug at the bottom end thereof with a orifice through the plug, and each cartridge having a bore therein for receiving a sample of a test substance and for receiving a piston on top of the pellets. A lift arm grasps the cartridges, one at a time, and places each cartridge into the heater block, under the control of a microcomputer, by both lifting and rotating the transfer arm. The transfer arm includes a solenoid-operated grip for grasping the cartridges.The test unit carries a lift mechanism with a weight mounted atop a tamping rod, and an optical sensor for determining the height of the weight relative to the lift machinism.