Abstract: Apparatus and methods particularly suited for drying tissue grade paper. In certain embodiments, a wet web, such as a web exiting a tissue manufacturing machine, is transferred to an air floatation dryer with specially arranged air bars and impingement nozzles described herein where the wet web is dried while still at least partly supported by an air-permeable belt. In certain embodiments, the specially arranged air floatation dryer comprises one or more air floatation dryer units through which the wet web is conveyed by way of a supporting endless loop or belt of air-permeable construction. The air bars and opposing impingement nozzles are so arranged as to force the web into contact with the belt and then subsequently lift the web from the belt surface in a repetitive and alternating fashion as the web and belt travel through the dryer.

Abstract: Many types of artificial reefs have been deployed in the world's oceans, bays and estuaries. These range from sinking ships to dispersing old building debris. In most approaches, the material placed in the marine environment lacks any nutrients needed for growth or concern regarding proper chemical conditions necessary to start and sustain life. In this discovery, concrete is made from both inorganic and organic components. The inorganic components are selected to include species that will be used to create a receptive surface to start and sustain life. Moreover, other conditions such as pH, chemical toxicity, nutrient levels and biodegradability are considered in the formulation. Additionally, there is an organic component that is part of the concentration mixture which provides trace nutrients and serves to weaken the structures so it will biodegrade over time. The biodegradable concrete slowly releases small quantities of resources (over months and years) providing a steady flux of essential nutrients.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods particularly suited for drying tissue grade paper. In certain embodiments, a wet web, such as a web exiting a tissue manufacturing machine, is transferred to an air floatation dryer with specially arranged air bars and impingement nozzles described herein where the wet web is dried while still at least partly supported by an air-permeable belt. In certain embodiments, the specially arranged air floatation dryer comprises one or more air floatation dryer units through which the wet web is conveyed by way of a supporting endless loop or belt of air-permeable construction. The air bars and opposing impingement nozzles are so arranged as to force the web into contact with the belt and then subsequently lift the web from the belt surface in a repetitive and alternating fashion as the web and belt travel through the dryer.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for unwinding yarns with: (1) a drive roll with a polished metal finish to ensure good fiber/metal contact; (2) a drive roll/separator roll combination that enables multiple wraps of yarn on the drive roll; (3) pivoting yarn holding arms for the active and standby packages that provide for easier access to the packages on a frame; and (4) in combination with the pivoting yarn holding arms, one or more pivoting legs extending from a frame so that the apparatus has a relatively small footprint and simplified yarn threading/string-up as compared to background art OETO apparatus.

Abstract: The jump rope device employs DC motors to rotate two ropes and a dual closed loop control system is used to synchronize the turning movements of the two ropes. An infrared beam is used to monitor the use of the machine by a user. Each motor housing is mounted on a tripod support which can be collapsed for ease of transportation and storage. A floor mat with sensors may be employed for various exercises.

Abstract: The jump rope device employs DC motors to rotate two ropes and a dual closed loop control system is used to synchronize the turning movements of the two ropes. An infrared beam is used to monitor the use of the machine by a user. Each motor housing is mounted on a tripod support which can be collapsed for ease of transportation and storage. A floor mat with sensors may be employed for various exercises.