Abstract: Disclosed are sintered copper-based materials and methods for forming the same having a larger grain size than materials formed through conventional methods. A metal powder having copper is compressed, pre-heated, and then sintered. Then, the density of the once sintered copper-based material is sized to increase density and subjected to a second sintering act. The sintered copper-based materials have a grain size of at least 50 ?m.

Abstract: A digital recording device includes a housing that is engageable with a lower curvature of a guitar's frame. The housing includes an arcuate inner surface, an arcuate outer surface coextensively shaped with the inner surface, and a padded member conjoined to the exterior surface thereof. An electrical contact protrudes outwardly from the inner surface and becomes nested with an electromagnetic pickup on the guitar. A mechanism, disposed within the housing, digitally records acoustic signals emanating from the guitar during playing conditions. A rechargeable internal power supply source, situated within the housing, and a timer circuit are linked to the digital recording mechanism. The timer circuit automatically toggles the digital recording mechanism between operative and in-operative modes. A portable base station is mateable to an external power source and is conjoinable to the housing for recharging the internal power supply source.

Abstract: A horse mask or halter manufactured by folding a single piece of screen material according to a pattern that ensures the formation of rigid darts in the portion of the mask corresponding to the eyes of the horse. The mask incorporates poll-protection padding that minimizes the risk of injury to the head of the horse during transportation in a horse trailer. A separate opening in the mask is provided for each ear to create an anchoring support that prevents the mask from shifting position over the head of the horse. Sheep skin is used to pad the edges of the mask and prevent the intrusion of insects.