Abstract: An electronic personal shopping system for communicating between a customer's personal memory store and point-of-sale terminals in a retail facility. Demographic profile data, a customer's transaction history data and a customer's current incentive indicia are stored in particular locations in a memory of a portable, machine-readable smart card. The smart card is adapted to interface with a store's check-out terminals and customer assistance, or kiosk terminals. Check-out terminals record a customer's most recent transactions in the customer's transaction history storage area and update a customer's current incentive indicia to reflect the most recent purchase. A customer is able to maintain a transaction history without intervention of a store platform computer.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus is a stand alone integrated smart card circuit chip card vending machine. It accepts bills in $1, $5, $10, $20 and $50 denominations and/or credit cards and issues stored value smart cards for the value requested. It can also telephone a center to validate credit card transactions or send diagnostic and statistical reports. This invention has the capability to read and write to a card while it is in the dispenser stack, therefore the card has no value while in the dispenser and is not released until payment is received, that is, the cards are encoded in real time before they are issued.

Abstract: A system for acquiring shopping list information includes a user terminal and a base unit in selective data communication via a wide-area network, such as the global Internet, common data carrier or a modulated wave propagating over a public utility. The user terminal includes a bar code scanner for getting Uniform Product Code information from a product container or from a manufacturer's coupon. The user compiles, via the user terminal, a shopping list database by scanning previously obtained products, manufacturers coupons, or using direct user input via an interface such as a keyboard or mouse. Once compiled, the database is selectively transmitted to a base unit situated at a retailer via the wide-area network.

Abstract: A portable card reader is designed to be carried in a wallet or purse. In a first embodiment, the card reader has an electromagnetic head that reads information from a magnetic strip of a card. In a second embodiment, information is read from the card by an array of Hall sensors. In both embodiments, the information read from the card is converted to a sequence of electronic bursts of predetermined frequency, preferably in the audible or ultrasound range. The sound signals are output by a speaker to the microphone of a telephone. The signal is then transmitted over the telephone lines to a remote receiver. The receiver then converts the sound bursts into signal pulses which can be read using the computer software of a conventional card reader.

Abstract: By providing subpixel accuracy in the detection of the position of an element of a pixel data image, the invention makes possible reductions in scanner and storage resolution of the order of 65 percent or greater for two-dimensional applications. Methods use normalized gray level values to determine the extent of coverage of an image cell by individual pixels. By then applying such gray level values of a plurality of successive pixels to a preconstructed lookup table, ambiguities are resolved to determine the position of cell edges. The cell edge data can be used to determine cell position or used directly in edge-based bar code decoding techniques. Cell position data is used for construction of a virtual image of a bar code or other dataform of interest and virtual image information may then be used for purposes of decoding the bar code or other dataform.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the accuracy of bar and space measurements in a barcode scanner system utilizing second derivative signal processing is provided wherein edges are more accurately detected under low signal-to-noise conditions, such as when shot noise is the major source of noise in an input signal and the larger noise levels present during the light portions of the input signal may cause premature triggering of a light-to-dark transition in the output signal. In a preferred embodiment, an input capture circuit captures and stores the time of successive assertions of an STV signal corresponding to light-to-dark transitions. Upon detection by a second input capture circuit of a first assertion, following the STV assertions, of an RTV signal corresponding to dark-to-light transitions, the last STV signal time is stored and used with a previously stored RTV time to determine a space width. The new RTV signal time and the last STV signal time are then used to determine a bar width.

Abstract: The reading method includes the step of successively performing a first and at least a second scan of an optical code along a first and, respectively, second scanning line parallel to each other. More specifically, the first and second scan of the optical code are performed by generating a first and a second laser light ray movable respectively in a first and second scanning plane distinct from and intersecting each other.

Abstract: In a bar-code reading apparatus, an enclosure is provided with various mechanisms, includes a hand-holding portion and a reading portion having a reading window. Projections are provided at two sides of the enclosure, and a cable extends out from one of the projections. The projections engage with supporting-point cut-out portions of supporting portions in a stand, in a stationary condition. The reading window is therefore located lower than the hand-holding portion.

Abstract: A scanning system and method of data reading in which the scanning system is provided with a more rugged scanning mechanism which is "parked" or otherwise locked in position, moved to a protected mechanically position, or into a secured condition thereby protecting more delicate scanning components, such as flexures, from damage due to external mechanical shock.

Abstract: An information reproduction apparatus performs reproduction of a recording medium in which multimedia information is recorded in a multichannel code to be separable in units of channels. An optical image pickup system reads a code, and a block data reconstruct section reconstructs blocks of data. A block selection section selects blocks corresponding to a plurality of types of channels. A channel selection section selects only a desired channel from a plurality of channels. An information reproduction section reproduces a plurality of pieces of information in the individual forms in accordance with the respective channels. An output information management section recognizes the types of plurality of pieces of information, and manages the respective information. An information output selection section selects and assigns an optimal output in accordance with the types of information. An output section outputs the information through a plurality of output devices.

Abstract: A fully integrated electronic appliance controller for controlling the operation of a appliance (e.g., a gas-fired water heater or boiler). The controller includes an integrated intelligent control system; enhanced safety features including an igniter current proving circuit, a flame detection circuit, a safety limit string and an energy cut-out (ECO) control; an intelligent user interface including a display unit and a communications system; and an adaptive control feature. According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the controller is adapted to receive as many as four temperature probes (e.g., thermistors). The first probe senses the water temperature at the outlet of a water heater, the second probe senses the water temperature at the inlet of the water heater, the optional third probe senses the temperature at a first location in an associated remote water storage tank, and the optional fourth probe senses the temperature at a second location in the associated remote water storage tank.

Abstract: An air conditioning system and method for conditioning air utilizes a main air conditioning body fitted minimally with an ambient air temperature and humidity sensor, a humidifier, a conditioned air fan, a downstream air temperature and humidity sensor, and a central controller for sensing and controlling each of the operative elements of the system. The humidifier includes a plurality of nozzles which spray conditioning water into the incoming airstream. Optional components include an air pre-heater, a pre-filter, a heat exchanger, and a final filter.

Abstract: A ventilation system, for example in the agricultural field. The ventilation system includes a ventilator and a processor module. Connections are included for connecting sensors associated with the ventilator to the processor module and on to a central processing unit. The sensors measure process quantities, such as the rotational speed, the temperature and the displaced air volume. The processor module is arranged in such a manner that in case of failure of the central processing unit and/or of the communication link between the processor module and the central processing unit, the processor module will control the ventilator on the basis of the process quantities measured by the sensors associated with the ventilator.

Abstract: A viscous fluid type heat generating apparatus having a housing forming a cylindrical heat-generating chamber having a cylindrical wall surface and an axially spaced flat annular wall surface, and a rotatably supported rotor element having a cylindrical base portion and an axially extending tubular portion integral with the base portion forming a substantially cylindrical outer face and a cavity portion used as a fluid-storing chamber, the cylindrical portion of the rotor element cooperating with the cylindrical wall surface of the housing to define a main part of a heat-generating gap holding a viscous fluid which generates heat in response to an application of a shearing force to the viscous fluid in response to the rotation of the rotor element.

Abstract: A railroad crossing panel filler for attachment to a headed support member on a railroad crossing panel slab includes an elongated elastomeric filler body with a slab engaging surface formed along the body. A rail engaging surface is also formed along the filler body opposite the slab engaging surface. An elongated support member head receiving channel is formed within the filler body and extends along the length thereof between the slab engaging surface and the rail engaging surface. An elongated support member receiving slot extending along the length of the filler body and includes a first open end along the slab engaging surface and a second end opening into the enlarged support member head receiving channel. The support member head receiving channel and support member receiving slot are configured to releasably receive a headed panel support member to releasably mount the elastomeric filler body to the panel.

Abstract: A traction device for a wheeled vehicle arranged to be laid on the ground in engagement with a tread portion of a tire to provide a traction grip to the tire. The traction device includes a U-shaped frame and a pair of claws constructed at the ends of the U-shaped frame and arranged to engage into cavities between the tire treads by a lever action on the traction device. The traction device further includes a plurality of transverse braces extending between a pair of longitudinal bars of the U-shaped frame, each transverse brace having a pair of traction cleats extending downwardly to engage with the ground and to elevate the traction device from ground in some measure.

Abstract: A snowmaker is comprised of a head which has an outer ring of nozzles which form a flow of primary water into droplets which move downstream preferably along paths running at a slight radially outward angle, together with a central nucleator which discharges frozen nuclei particles outwardly from a plurality of atomizers at the downstream end cap end of the nucleator. The nucleator is readily disconnectable from the ring. Secondary water flow is fed to the nucleator so it swirls at high velocity within, to greatly enhance the warming effect of the water on the nucleator parts, and to thereby inhibit accumulation of exterior ice. The secondary water is mixed with compressed air as they both enter the atomizers of the end cap. A resultant flow of nuclei from the atomizers is discharged so the flow merges with the plume of primary water droplets from the nozzle. Preferably, flat spray nozzles are used.

Abstract: A device for displaying advertising in association with a drinking fountain or water fountain is disclosed. A first embodiment of the invention comprises forming a clear plastic panel or laminate to conform with the splash guard and basin portions of a drinking fountain. The plastic panel or laminate includes advertising information attached to the plastic or disposed between lamination layers of the plastic. Alternatively, a slot for receiving advertising may be formed in the plastic so that the advertising may be periodically replaced. The formed plastic is then situated over the existing combination splash guard/basin of a corresponding water fountain. Advertising is viewable in the vertical splash guard area as well as the basin area. In a second embodiment, a plastic member is molded or formed in the shape of a water fountain splash guard/basin and the plastic member replaces the original stainless steel splash guard/basin of the water fountain.

Abstract: A novelty drinking straw designed to play an electronically recorded voice or other sound when a liquid passes through the straw is disclosed having improved safety and entertainment value. The novelty drinking straw has a detachable sound module and an improved sealing member to prevent damage to the electronic circuitry in the sound module.

Abstract: A rotary nozzle head has a rotor nozzle (50) through which flow can take place, two radially adjustable sheet metal deflector plates (30, 32) and a nozzle bearing (42), the axial position of which is adjustable. An axially adjustable functional element carrier (20) is formed at its downstream end as an actuation housing (22) and has the nozzle bearing (42) at the upstream end thereof. In addition, the functional element carrier (20) supports the sheet metal deflector plates (30, 32).

Abstract: A water nozzle control valve seat is constructed of a body, a plug tube, a valve tube member, a slide rod, a press rod member, a tension spring, a clip plate, and an elasticity element. The valve seat tube is constructed at the upper section of tubular handle which has provided with an entrance water tube at upper end thereof connecting to the rear bottom of said valve seat tube. An exit water tube is provided between the middle top section of valve seat tube and barrel. An external tube is provided with an opening at bottom front side connecting the exit water tube and barrel. A receiving room of wedge is formed on the water nozzle body located at top and rear side of the external tube. The clip plate is fastened pivotally beneath the barrel locating at front of valve seat tube, and corresponds to the press rod member providing with a wedge hole and further providing with a convex at the bottom section thereof that is relatively to the tubular handle.

Abstract: A spray gun (1) includes a head (2) having an element (5) for connecting a liquid hose (7) as well as a handle member (3) having a member (6) for connecting a compressed air hose (8). The liquid hose (7) is, along the major part of the length thereof, drawn inside the wider compressed air hose (8), a coupling part (10) of the multi-way type being connected to the connection member (6) of the handle member (3). The coupling part includes a main duct (11) for compressed air, as well as at least one branch duct (14), extending at an angle to the main duct, through which the liquid hose (7) is drawn and which includes at least one sealing (18) which air-proofly cuts off an annular gap between the inside of the branch duct and the outside of the liquid hose.

Abstract: A peg feeder and method of feeding moist grain from a steam chamber to a grain flaking mill. The feeder includes an inlet flow divider baffle for separating the grain into two flow channels each of which includes an adjustable valve door for controlling flow. The two flow channels include secondary baffles for directing the moist grain to opposite sides of a pair of spaced feed rollers which are mounted so as to converge the flow of grain from the two channels at a central discharge outlet. Access to the interior of the peg feeder is provided by removable panels and underlying safety grates.

Abstract: A cone crusher with wear indicator. The cone crusher comprises a frame, a head rotatably supported on the frame, a bowl supported on the frame in spaced relation to the head, a liner mounted on one of the head and the bowl, and an indicator for indicating wear of the liner. Preferably, the indicator includes a recess defined by the liner, and the recess is revealed upon erosion of the wearing surface of the liner. Preferably, the cone crusher further comprises a backing material between the liner and the one of the head and the bowl. The backing material preferably fills the recess and is different from the material of which the liner is formed.

Abstract: A construction vehicle attachment in the form of a pulverizer-ripper unit that includes a pair of jaws confronting and closing on one another and an independent ripper-shank that has a replaceable ripper-tooth. Each jaw includes teeth that serve to engage and fracture concrete slabs. The pulverizer-ripper unit operates under power of any one or a combination of hydraulic, pneumatic, electric, or mechanical powers. The teeth on each jaw are alternated at differing lengths and sizes. The ripper-shank is an elongated finger-like projection pivotably mounted on one of the jaws. The ripper-shank is significantly longer than either jaw and has a range of arcuate motion from a parked-position to a fully-deployed-position with at least two intermediate positions therebetween. The ripper-shank can be locked into such an intermediate position and allows an operator to initially rip up or pry up surfaces, sort and properly orient large chunks, and then subsequently pulverize the chunks with the jaws.

Abstract: A reciprocating slat conveyor (22) conveys a body of bulk material (16) to the outlet end (21) of a container (12). The body of bulk material (16) is moved against a sloughing wall (10). The sloughing wall (10) includes a plurality of slats (40) that are mounted for generally up and down reciprocation. The slats (40) carry bulk material engaging teeth (60, 62). In response to the generally up and down movement of the slats (40) the teeth (60, 62) break loose the bulk material (16). The loosened bulk material falls down onto a secondary conveyor (14) which leads it away from the container (12).

Abstract: The invention concerns blow bar 1 for impactor rotors with a mirror-symmetrical longitudinal cross-section for the purpose of reversibility, which is fitted in peripheral recesses 17 of the rotor advantageously comprising discs 16. According to the invention, the cross-section of blow bar 1 essentially forms a basic double trapezium shape with the wide bases of each trapezium as symmetrical axis 2. The rear 5 of the blow bar corresponding to the height of each trapezium is arranged at rightangles to the symmetrical axis and forms a level surface 6 over the total height of the blow bar. The invention also specifies an advantageous rotor for such a blow bar, Fig.

Abstract: A drive roller for a belt-driven tape cartridge is molded of composite polymeric material in a single step to include outer segment and inner segment integrally formed together with a radial web segment between the outer and inner segments to provide highly concentric operating surfaces on the outer segment and in the inner segment. Electrical conductivity throughout the molded drive roller is provided by including in the composite material a quantity of carbon powder, and selective shrinkage of the composite material during cooling from molding temperatures provides desirable bearing surface within the inner bore through the inner segment. Thrust bearing surfaces at the ends of the inner segment engage mating bearing surfaces that include lubricant traps to inhibit migration of lubricant away from the bearing surfaces of the drive roller.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for securing against the impermissible unreeling speed of a belt element (80) from a shaft (82) of a lifter (70) used for transporting a handicapped person; the shaft is connected to a first gear wheel (84), in order to assure by a structurally simple arrangement that if the belt element (80) has an impermissible unreeling speed, locking of the shaft (82) occurs as a function of the speed of revolution of the shaft (82) receiving the belt element (80), a locking element (102) is moved in between the first gear wheel (84) and a gear wheel (92), as a result of which the first gear wheel (84) is blocked.

Abstract: An apparatus for processing an elongate photographic photosensitive film has a cutting mechanism for cutting the elongate photographic photosensitive film, first and second feed mechanisms disposed one on each side of the cutting mechanism, an inserting mechanism for inserting the leading end of the elongate photographic photosensitive film into a spool, and a cam switching mechanism for changing the timing of operation of the cutting mechanism depending on any one of predetermined lengths. The leading ends of sized films of different lengths that are cut from the elongate photographic photosensitive film can automatically be inserted into spools with a relatively simple arrangement.

Abstract: The machine comprises: a pair of winding rolls (1, 3) defining a winding cradle (5); feed means (13) for feeding a weblike material (N) toward said cradle (5); slitter means (14) for slitting said weblike material (N) lengthwise; insertion means (55) for inserting a plurality of axially aligned tubular winding cores (A) into said winding cradle (5); and a slitting station (49, 51) situated upstream of said winding rolls (1, 3), with a plurality of tools (67) for dividing, at right angles to its axis, a tube (T) of great length into tabular cores (A) of limited length. The slitting station (49, 51) contains a mandrel (71) with means for inserting said mandrel (71) into said tube (T) and for withdrawing the mandrel from the tubular cores obtained by dividing up said tube.

Abstract: Winding machine for continuous winding of a material web, in particular a paper or cardboard web, onto a reel into a winding roll, having a movable pressing drum, which forms a winding gap with the winding roll, having at least one primary transport device by means of which the reel can be moved along a first guide track, and at least one secondary transport device that guides the reel along a second guide track. To prepare for a reel change, the new reel can be shifted by the primary transport device into a reel-changing position in which a new winding gap is formed between the new reel and the pressing drum. In the reel-changing position, the material web is guided over a circumference region of the new reel.

Abstract: A fixed-wing four-to-six-seat light aircraft that can be easily converted to a roadway vehicle within minutes by a single person in the field, comprising a one-piece wing center panel with foldable wing tips on each sides. The whole wing unit is then rotatably mounted on top of the fuselage. The aircraft features a conventional front-engine-and-propeller lay-out, with a foldable tail section for convenient roadability and garageability. All the wheels are retractable in flight, and it has a long-span, high aspect-ratio wing for exceptional climb and cruise efficiency. The vehicle has a low ride-height with a low center of gravity, four wheels with independent suspension, nose-height leveling for take-off and landing, and anti-sway mechanism for good ground handling ability. Ground propulsion is by automotive-style transmission driving the rear wheels or by hydraulic motors in the all-wheel retractable version.

Abstract: A two axis optical FLIR gimbal assembly for azimuth and elevation supporting an assembly of optical elements including five folding mirrors, one of which is a Mangin mirror, and six lenses which implement a wide stabilized field of regard and provide a magnification of the incident image. The gimbal assembly, moreover, includes a yoke structure which is driven about an azimuth axis and supports a stable body member which is independently driven about an elevation axis. An independently driven turret is also rotatable about the azimuth axis and shields the gimbal assembly from external forces such as an air stream passing over the fuselage of an aircraft.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a variable camber delta-shaped aircraft. The aircraft is provided with an integrated fuselage/wing generally defining the aircraft and having longitudinal and lateral axes. The fuselage/wing has a forward section which is rotably attached to an aft section about the lateral axis. The aircraft is further provided with an aerodynamic lifting surface which is disposed about the fuselage/wing and defined by a camber. The forward section has a downwardly deflected position when rotated relative to the aft section. The forward and aft sections are cooperatively formed to increase the camber of the lifting surface when the forward section is in the deflected position.

Abstract: An aircraft engine apparatus with a reduced inlet vortex is provided which utilizes a vortex disruption system that periodically discharges pulses of engine bleed fluid through at least one outlet port opening through the inlet of the engine nacelle to disrupt the engine inlet vortex. The vortex disruption system thereby prevents ingestion of foreign matter into the engine inlet without sacrificing engine power, efficiency, or aircraft cruise performance.

Abstract: An aircraft nose landing gear installation that utilizes a single piece pin inserted through the gear fittings and into the two piece, fail safe support structure without requiring mechanical retention on the outside of the wheel well.

Abstract: An outer cowl panel (24) for an engine nacelle (20). The outer cowl panel (24) includes integral track fairings (30) at aft side edges of the outer cowl panel. The outer cowl panel (24) also includes a chamfered leading edge having outer face sheets (88A, 88B) that extend over the leading edges of a stepped stack of prepreg sheets (88C, 88D, 88E, 88F).

Abstract: An air return grille for an aircraft mounted below the passenger cabin sidewall comprises openings to allow return airflow from the air conditioning system. In a preferred embodiment, the grille openings are covered by a single thin baffle 32 with cutouts within its periphery that slip over and are held in place by fasteners on the molded grille 28. The thin baffle 32 is affixed to the molded grille 28 along one or more edges on the grille. All other thin baffle 32 attachments allow for the baffle to be disengaged upon the onset of a rapid decompression. During normal operation, the thin baffle 32 restricts flow through a small opening in the grille. During a sudden/rapid decompression of the cargo compartment/lower lobe, the baffle is dislodged from the fasteners and forced into a position parallel to the airstream. This allows the airflow to pass through all of the molded grille 28 openings in order to achieve rapid pressure equalization.

Abstract: A device for protection of a spinal column of a pilot during an ejection shock comprises an ejectable seat with a seat back having tensioners integrated therein, a rigid framework and a buttock support. To prevent concentration of the weight of the upper portion of the body on the lumbar/abdominal region, the buttock support is lowered through use of an electromagnetic arrangement retracting connection elements between the seat back and the rigid framework.

Abstract: A deicer comprises a skin heating device immediately subjacent an outer skin overlying an apex of a leading edge, and a skin deflection device immediately subjacent the outer skin chordwise aft of the apex. The skin heating device prevents the formation of ice over the apex and the skin deflection device deflects the outer skin to expulse ice formed chordwise aft of the apex. A controller controls the heating and deflection cycles to minimize power consumption of the deicer.

Abstract: A launch lock mechanism having a clamp assembly that secures multiple independent brackets. The brackets are attached to components to be deployed from a satellite. A pyrotechnic separation device actuates the clamp assembly. Both the pyrotechnic device and the clamp assembly remain independent of the brackets and components after deployment.

Abstract: A telecommunications rack cable support bracket is provided which comprises a pair of parallel support members and a plurality of cross members extending therebetween. The arrangement of the support members and the cross members defines two openings through which cable may be routed. Each support member includes tabs for securely positioning the telecommunications rack cable support bracket onto a telecommunications rack by interfacing with the horizontal Z-brackets of the telecommunications rack, thus eliminating the need for the use of special mechanical fasteners. Each cross member includes a pair of downwardly extending tabs which serve to locate the telecommunications rack cable support bracket between two U-shaped brackets of the telecommunications rack. These tabs also provide stress concentration relief for cable bundles routed from U-channels across the telecommunications rack cable support bracket.

Abstract: An improved cable spacer for spacing a transmission cable or similar article from a support member such as a support wire is provided. The spacer includes a substantially continuous cable contacting surface and includes drainage holes for preventing water and ice accumulation in the interior portion of the spacer. The spacer may further include openings in the side walls thereof in communication with a passageway provided for passage of a cable tie used in conjunction therewith. Such openings permit accommodation of various sizes of transmission cables without added strain between the spacer and cable tie. A plurality of such spacers of the present invention can be used in a stacked configuration to accommodate any desired spacing between a transmission cable and support wire.

Abstract: An ergonomic computer mouse workstation includes a base operable to rest on a surface defining a reference plane having a normal surface axis extending perpendicular thereto and a platform secured to the base. The platform has a work surface operable to support a computer mouse, the work surface being disposed at an angle to the reference plane, the base being moveable relative to the platform to position the work surface at an angular orientation relative to the reference plane, to provide a slope to the work surface. The ergonomic computer mouse workstation may further include a counterbalance for providing a force to the computer mouse to oppose the tendency of the computer mouse to move down the inclined surface.

Abstract: The invention concerns a new kind of stand equipped with two separate balancing weights (5a,b), one of which balances the horizontal pivoting movement and the other of which balances the vertical pivoting movement. Various embodiments relate to electronic measuring means (6) and adjusting means (7) for automatic adjustment of the positions of the balancing weights (5a,b). (FIG.

Abstract: A portable urinal including a urine bottle support, a hollow rod and an extension rod projecting from the hollow cylinder. The extension rod is selectively movable in a direction of elongation of the hollow cylinder by a driver. The driver is actuated remotely. The urine bottle support may be swung out of the way or into position as desired by actuating appropriate motor drives.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for removably mounting an electronic device to a surface where such mounting can be accomplished using only one hand. The apparatus includes a mounting bracket that is securable to the electronic device. The bracket has a mounting pedestal coupled to it which has a lower ratchet surface. The apparatus further has a base which has a lower face that can be coupled to the surface, and an upper face which has a receiving slot for the pedestal. The slot has a shoulder extending thereabove to engage the pedestal, and an open end that allows the pedestal to be moved within the slot. The base further includes a releasable locking arm which has a retaining ridge located in line with the open end of the slot to selectively hold the pedestal within the slot. The locking arm has an upper pawl surface located to engage the ratchet surface when the pedestal is located within the slot.

Abstract: A pump support device for use in securing a hand pump within an opening formed in an upper wall of a container, such as a drum, for dispensing the contents of the container. The pump support device includes a base member defining an internal passage within which a body portion of the hand pump is received. The base member is configured so as to overlie the opening in the upper wall of the container, and a releasable engagement member, such as a thumb screw, is interconnected with the base member for selectively fixing the pump body in position relative to the base member. A mounting arrangement is interconnected with the base member for engaging a lip of the container for selectively securing the base member in position. The mounting arrangement includes an arm extending outwardly from the base member and terminating in a downturned outer end portion located outwardly of the lip.

Abstract: A sheet stand which stands a sheet, such as a piece of paper, with a simple operation. The sheet stand includes the sheet stand body 20 and the ball 30. The bottom of the sheet is held between the curved holding surface 21 of the sheet stand body 20 and the ball 30. Then, the ball 30 moves toward the curved surface 24 at the holding surface 21 by its own self-weight, thereby grabbing the bottom of the sheet bending the bottom portion inside to make the sheet firmer to stand.