Abstract: Disclosed is a fuel oil composition comprising a middle distillate having a sulfur content of up to 0.

Abstract: High surfactant to water ratios on the order of 2.5 to 1 in a concentrated a micro-emulsion forming fuel additive produces improved hydrocarbon fuel combustion at only 5 to 95 parts per million of additional water.

Abstract: Improved fuel compositions containing carbon nanotubes in from 0.01% to 30.0% by weight of fuel have improved burn rate and other valuable properties. Improved lubricant compositions containing carbon nanotubes in from 0.01 to 20.0% by weight of lubricant have improved viscosity and other valuable properties.

Abstract: A tarp suitable for protecting plants during frost and freezing nights is disclosed. The tarp preferably comprises of two sheets that are stitched together at their perimeter to form insulative air gaps therebetween. The top sheet is preferably nylon reinforced polyethylene, coated with a white or metallic coating to reflect sunshine. The bottom sheet is preferably spun-bonded polypropylene. Such a tarp has shown suitable results in protecting plants from frost and freeze damage even without the use of supports or external heat sources, and may be laid directly onto sensitive plants. Yet, the reflective nature of the top sheet prevents the plants from growing too hot during those times of day when the tarp is exposed to direct sunlight. Additionally, the air gaps in between the top and bottom sheets may be replaced by a third layer of bubble wrap placed between the top and bottom sheets.

Abstract: A stackable landscape edging segment is disclosed that can be stacked to form multi-layer landscape edging. The landscape edging segment has an elongated body. A lower stacking connection feature and an upper stacking connection feature are coupled to the elongated body. The upper stacking connection feature is formed to connect to a matching landscape edging segment by engaging with a matching lower stacking connection feature. In one embodiment, the stackable landscape edging segment comprises a plurality of spikes connected to and extending downward from the elongated body. And, each spike includes a lower stacking connection feature. In this embodiment, the stackable landscape edging segment also comprises a plurality of upper stacking connection features, each associated with and aligned with one of the spikes. Further disclosed are methods of manufacturing and using the stackable landscape edging segments.

Abstract: A height adjustable support assembly for a receptacle in which a water plant or other vegetation can be grown is disclosed. The assembly includes a base which can be weighted down with granulated material such as sand or pebbles, a two section, telescopically adjustable, elongated supporting column attached on a lower end to the base, and a receptacle attached to an upper end of the supporting column. In one embodiment, the receptacle is fitted with a flotation collar so that it can float on the surface of the water containment means in which the assembly is disposed as the water surface level changes, carrying with it an upper section of the supporting column. In another embodiment, the height of the supporting column and receptacle can be incrementally adjusted and fixed by means of a retaining pin. In yet another embodiment the supporting column height can be adjusted and fixed by means of a threaded cap containing a compressible gasket.

Abstract: Methods for treating seeds and improving the uptake by plants of active ingredients with which seeds are treated. Seeds are coated with dry mixtures of hydrogel and active ingredients that produce desirable effects on the seed, a plant that may emerge from the seed or both.

Abstract: A floral sleeve sized to contain a botanical item and a growing medium and having a base portion with side gussets for allowing expansion from a flattened position and method of using same. The sleeve may comprise a detachable upper portion, and a skirt portion.

Abstract: A gasifier is disclosed combining a fixed bed gasification section where coarse fuel is gasified and an entrained flow gasification section where fine fuel is gasified. The fixed bed section includes upper and lower sections. Coarse fuel is devolatilized in the upper fixed bed section and subjected to elevated temperatures sufficient to crack and destroy tars and oils in the effluent gases. The entrained flow gasification section is disposed in a lower plenum adjacent the lower fixed bed section. A plurality of injection ports are configured to introduce oxygen, steam, or air into different sections of the gasifier to control temperature and operating conditions. Activated carbon may be formed in the upper fixed bed section and in the entrained flow section. The activated carbon may be used as a sorbent to remove pollutants from the effluent gases. The gasifier may be used with various coarse and fine fuel feedstocks.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for the gasification of coal wherein a slurry of coal and water is supplied to a gasification reactor, characterized in that at least apart of the water is supplied in a form of steam to the gasification reactor. This method solves all of the aforesaid problems in the conventional method for supplying a coal/water slurry to a gasification reactor and attains a remarkably high efficiency.

Abstract: A mass transit vehicle window installation assembly for simplifying and accelerating the installation of window assemblies in vehicle window apertures. The assembly comprises a retainer that connects between a window assembly frame and a vehicle wall panel having a window aperture shaped to receive the window assembly where the window assembly frame has a planform shape that generally complements that of the window aperture. The retainer spaces such a window assembly frame from an inner peripheral surface of a complementary window aperture. The retainer is supported on either a window frame or a complementary window aperture in a position to center the window assembly as the window assembly is inserted into the aperture. This allows an operator to insert a window assembly into a window aperture after one or more of the window assembly retainers have been installed on one of the window frame and window aperture.

Abstract: A vehicle door including a window regulator motor and an inner panel, the window regulator motor including a connector housing, the connector housing including connector terminals, in which the connector housing is sealed against the inner panel via sealing means.

Abstract: A vehicle door trimming member has a rigid carrier member that supports a rail. The rail is part of a window guide, for guiding a window when it is being rolled up or down. The rail is in two parts, with a latch connector for the door latch connected to the two parts. The door latch has two positions, a first preassembly position and a second operating position.

Abstract: Methods for making ceramic aggregate particles comprising forming a plurality of ceramic aggregate precursor particles from a composition by forcing the composition through at least one orifice in a substrate, at least partially curing the ceramic aggregate precursor particles, and heating the ceramic aggregate precursor particles to provide ceramic aggregate particles wherein solid particulates are bonded together by ceramic binder.

Abstract: This invention provides a chemical mechanical polishing slurry for polishing a metal film formed on an insulating film with a concave on a substrate wherein the slurry contains a thickener without an ionic group with an opposite sign to a charge on a polishing material surface to 0.001 wt % or more and less than 0.05 wt% to the total amount of the slurry and has a slurry viscosity of 1 mPa·s to 5 mPa·s both inclusive. The polishing slurry may be used in CMP to form a reliable damascene electric connection with excellent electric properties at a higher polishing rate, i.e., a higher throughput while preventing dishing or erosion.

Abstract: An aqueous dispersion containing a cerium oxide-doped, pyrogenically produced silicon dioxide, wherein the cerium oxide is introduced through an aerosol of a cerium salt solution or suspension and the average particle size in the dispersion is less than 100 nm. The dispersion is produced by dispersing the cerium oxide-doped, pyrogenically produced silicon dioxide in aqueous solution by means of a high energy input. The aqueous dispersion can be used for chemical-mechanical polishing.

Abstract: By using a polishing slurry which contains, at least, a polishing grain, an oxidizing agent and a basic amino acid compound, it is possible to suppress dishing and erosion liable to be produced in chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) for a copper-based metal film when forming a buried interconnection of a copper-based metal on a barrier metal film of a tantalum-based metal.

Abstract: An abrasive diamond composite formed from coated diamond particles and a matrix material. The diamonds have a protective coating formed from a refractory materia1 having a composition MCxNy, that prevents corrosive chemical attack of the diamonds by the matrix material. The abrasive diamond composite may further include an infiltrant, such as a braze material. Alternatively, the abrasive diamond composite may include a plurality of coated diamond particles and a braze material filling interstitial spaces between the coated diamond particles. Methods of making such abrasive diamond composites are also disclosed.

Abstract: A snap lock device is disclosed for hingedly securing an extension to a downspout. The device includes a first member having a head and a shank extending from the head. The shank extends through a first hole defined by the extension and through a second hole defined by the downspout. A second member cooperates with the first member and the second member defines an aperture for the locking reception therein of the shank for locking the extension and downspout together.

Abstract: A toy igloo device is disclosed for resting on the ground. The device includes a dome shaped housing which defines an enclosure and an entrance. The housing includes a plurality of selectively interlocking sections with each section of the plurality of sections having an edge which rests on the ground. A first section of the plurality of sections defines a first opening and a second section of the plurality of sections is disposed adjacent to the first section. The second section defines a second opening so that the first and the second openings cooperate with each other to define the entrance. Each of the sections has an external surface which defines at least two pockets for the reception therein of snow. The arrangement is such that when the sections are interlocked, with the edges of the sections resting on the ground, snow is received and gathered within the pockets such that the toy igloo takes on an appearance of an Eskimo dwelling.

Abstract: A support tower for large structures such as wind turbines generators, microwave structures, high voltage transmission lines or the like, constructed of telescopic sections with the lowermost section having an edge portion pivotally connected to a foundation to enable the tower sections to be transported to the site of installation. The tower sections are assembled at the installation site in a nested relationship, each within the adjacent lower tower section. The large load is mounted on the upper end of the uppermost tower section and the nested tower sections are then tilted upwardly to a vertical position. After the tower is tilted to its vertical position and securely connected to the foundation, the telescopic tower sections are vertically extended to position the load in a vertically elevated position.

Abstract: An energy absorbing seismic brace for both retrofit and new construction. The brace comprises a central strut of either multi-legged or homogeneous section fabricated from low strength aluminum, whose characteristics maximize the seismic energy absorption for a building installation. This central strut absorbs energy at high weight-specific levels by virtue of the hysteresis in its load-deflection relationship. In order to eliminate the possibility of buckling of the energy absorbing strut when it passes through the compression portion of a load cycle, it is surrounded by a system of spacers and an external sleeve providing very high bending rigidity at low weight. The spacers may be fabricated from low-density foams, pseudo-concrete, fibrous composites, or metals, depending upon the application. The outer sleeve may also be fabricated from a variety of materials, depending upon whether the embodiment calls for the principal bending rigidity to be provided by the spacers or sleeve.

Abstract: The support system for a premanufactured building includes a foundation platform (12) having cleat walls (50-53) that penetrate the ground. A support stand (14) and its vertical support shaft (30) function as a pier to support the joist (18) of the building. A diagonal stabilizing strut (16) is connected at its upper end to the same or to an adjacent joist, and at its lower end to the support stand, so that compression forces applied by the joist to the strut (16) move from one side of the vertical load axis (28) to the other side of the axis and engage the foundation platform, so that the ground adjacent the cleats (50-53) resists movement of the joist.

Abstract: An end member is joined against axial displacement to a handrail by a lock member that is coupled to a mounting flange portion of the end member against axial movement and for rotation relative to the mounting flange portion. A locking cam portion of the lock member is received in an undercut mounting groove of the handrail and is configured to permit the lock member to be moved axially along the locking groove in an unlocked rotational position relative to the locking groove and to frictionally engage walls of the locking groove in a locked rotational position relative to the locking groove and thereby retain the end member against axial movement relative to the handrail.

Abstract: A roof ventilation system having a strip with an air-permeable portion located adjacent to a ridge slot. Stand-off clips are provided which can be placed over the air-permeable strip at fastener locations which are located on flat portions of the roof panels. A sealing material may be placed beneath the air-permeable strip at such fastener locations to prevent the ingress of moisture beneath the panels.

Abstract: The window frame structure of the roof window is secured to the main frame structure within a predetermined range of the opening angle by means of a securing device comprising at least one torsion member. The torsion member is torsionally biased in the opening direction of the window and includes engagement means at a distance from the pivot axis for engagement with corresponding engagement means on the window frame structure. The securing device is automatically activated and deactivated during mounting and dismounting of the window frame from the main frame.

Abstract: A roof window assembly is composed of a window component, a main frame component and, optionally, an integrated flashing component. The window component may be used independently and without modifications for a roof window installation employing a curb-frame. The window component features a novel design with an glazing element fitted in a profiled sheet metal frame, which can be made from a single continuous sheet metal profile bent into a polygonal frame shape with corner junctions. In both fixed and ventilating versions of the roof window assembly identical connecting members into open mutual engagement at the top side of the window and main frame components provides for easy mounting and dismounting of the window component with respect to the main frame component.

Abstract: A force resistant door and window framing system has blast, forced entry, and ballistic resistant frame sections each formed of a single basic monolithic, homogenous steel component. Each section is extruded or drawn through a die to provide the desired cross sectional shape, incorporating features for precluding forced entry, whether by hand, ballistic firearm, or blast, at least to the limits of strength of the structure. The sections (jamb and header for doors, or stile, header, and sill for windows) are then welded at their mating ends to form a single, rigid structure, with an additional interior stop provided for the window within a window frame. The present invention is far superior to such structures of the prior art which are formed of a relatively large number of stock components, thus requiring extensive linear welds and resulting in a considerably heavier and yet weaker structure.

Abstract: The roof window assembly comprises a main frame component and a window component including a glazing element. In order to reduce the influx of light an external screening accessory is provided. The screening accessory comprises an elongate housing extending in parallel with the top and bottom members of the frame and from which a screening member is retractable by movement parallel to the side members of the frame. An end member connected with a free end of the screening member extends throughout the width of the window frame and includes engaging means at either end of the end member for engagement with a transverse inwards recess in the outer side of each side member of the window frame.

Abstract: A cover assembly is provided for preventing water infiltration into an in-floor receptacle fitting, such as a poke-thru fitting. The fitting includes an internal compartment which is accessible through an opening in the surface of the floor. The cover assembly includes a trim flange which overlies the floor opening. The trim flange supports at least one receptacle, such as a power receptacle, within the fitting such that the receptacle can be interconnected within the inner compartment with source cables that enter the fitting from below the floor, and can be interconnected from above with a connector such as a male electrical plug. A cover plate is mounted on the trim flange and overlies the receptacles carried by the fitting. The cover plate includes a plurality of access doors. Each of the access doors is movable between a first position at which it overlies an associated receptacle to prevent access thereto and a second position at which the associated receptacle is exposed and accessible from above.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a building construction system, the components thereof, and method therefore. More specifically, the present invention relates to a building construction system that utilizes specifically designed component parts that fit together, such as by male/female connections, and are permanently attached through the use of an adhesive, or bonding glue, to create an extra strong and uniformly tight structure. If effect, the end result is equivalent to a one-piece construction since all components are permanently “chemically welded” to each other with all components being made from the same type of materials.

Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a fastening sealing member preventing water leakage reliably, ensuring ventilation properties sufficiently and having excellent fastening strength of siding boards, and a siding boards attachment structure.

Abstract: The wall rack which is designed for an office workstation, in particular a PC workstation, in a freestanding mobile embodiment or with fixed installation comprises essentially an upright base frame (1,10,10′) onto which a front panel (2,2′) is fitted on each side. The shelves (7,8) of various shapes and dimensions in the form of storage shelves (7) or work surfaces (8) which can withstand larger loads can be arranged and rearranged at selected heights on one or both front panels (2,2′). Through a subdivided opening (20) in the front panels (2,2′), which can be manually accessed by means of flaps (4) which can be pivoted upward, it is possible to access an electric socket unit for supplying power and/or for connecting communication leads for the equipment positioned in front of the wall rack.

Abstract: A multi-unit residential building design has a system of contiguous dwelling units arranged to occupy a single story at a high density. Each unit, whatever the number of bedrooms, is formed from an arrangement of overlapping rectangles, wherein most units assume a T-shape. These T-shaped units are positioned in either outer columns of the building or are embedded in inner columns; however, the layout of each unit is substantially the same. The building is constructed as an interlocking set of units which minimizes exterior wall space and maximizes density. The interlocking character of the design also allows all the rooms of each unit to have suitable window frontage, and provides for up-scale features such as courtyards for the embedded units.

Abstract: A cantilevered structural support comprises a counterbalance and an elongate support member that is secured to the counterbalance. A cantilevered portion of the support member extends outward from the counterbalance. When one or more cantilevered structural supports are used to support a freestanding structure, the cantilevered portions of the support members are configured to support 40% or more of the footprint area of the structure.

Abstract: A building board comprises a core of gypsum which has penetrated a glass fiber sheet embedded in one face and a coating of gypsum integral with the core material which has passed through the sheet. An apparatus for making such a board includes; a lower forming surface and an upper forming surface defining a forming zone between them in which the plasterboard is formed. A supply of a first slurry is provided to the lower forming surface. A supply of a second slurry is provided to a glass fiber sheet to coat the upper surface of the sheet with the second slurry. A device is provided for passing the coated sheet into the forming space, whereby the lower surface of the sheet contacts the upper surface of the first slurry. A vibrator roller is provided for vibrating the upper forming surface so that the first slurry passes through the sheet into the second slurry. A method of making the board is also disclosed.

Abstract: A floorboard system includes a plurality of floorboards, wherein each of the floorboards is a rectangular floorboard provided with long edges and short edges and having a floorboard body provided with an integrated long edge locking system and an integrated short edge locking system for mechanical joining, both vertically and horizontally, the floorboards, along the long edges thereof and along the short edges thereof. The long edge locking system differs from the short edge locking system in respect of at least one of material composition and material properties. And, at least one of the long edge locking system and the short edge locking system includes a separate element which is integrally connected with the floorboard body at the factory and is made of a material other than that included in the floorboard body.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bottom rail strip for bridging a joint between two floor coverings. The invention proposes that the bottom rail be designed with a hinge, by means of which one cover profile strip of the bottom rail can be laterally swivelled. The hinge makes it possible to adjust the bottom rail to floor coverings of varying height, and offset height differences.

Abstract: The present invention relates to horizontal, vertical or angularly disposed diaphragms which resist structural forces. Specifically, the present invention relates to an improved mechanical connection between a structural panel and the framing members that support the structural panel forming a diaphragm. The connection includes: a structural panel having a distal side, a proximal side, and a plurality of edge faces; a frame consisting of a plurality of framing members disposed in registration with the proximal side of the structural panel near the edge faces; a plurality of perimeter fasteners connecting the structural panel to the framing members; and clips or perimeter edging members for reducing bending of the perimeter fasteners attached to a substantial number of the perimeter fasteners. The clips or perimeter edging members for reducing bending of the perimeter fasteners act when lateral forces are imposed on the building structure of which the diaphragm is a part.

Abstract: An above-grade decking system having a plurality of deck members overlying a plurality of joists with clip member connectors connecting the deck members to the joists. The present decking system is particularly adapted for use with concrete composite materials that are shaped into construction materials and testured to resemble wood or stone products. The clip members are shaped to hold the deck memebers onto the joists. The clip members fit into slots in the deck memebers and are attached to the joists using commonly available connectors. The deck memebers can be shaped and configured to fit together with the clip memebers therebetween.

Abstract: An environmentally conservative and more cost-effective apparatus and method for protecting architectural-building construction work in progress from potential damaging effects of rain-storms, temporarily sealing-off exposed roof and wall structures from penetration by water; -heretofore only facilitated by use of awkward to handle disposable plastic-film sheets or general use tarpaulins. The new specialized tarp-system employs a modular array of prefabricated rectangular tarp-panels fabricated from flexible imperforate light-weight/high-strength material sized both for easy one-man handling which proportional dimensions are quickly and easily assembled over exposed-framing of a building. Each identical tarp-panel and optional ridge-panel employs either a linear anchoring-strip device, or a plurality of spaced apart perimeter and field-area grommethole reinforced points, either of which accepting easily removable nail or screw fasteners.

Abstract: An assembly including a first, second, and third component, the first component being secured to the second component by a deformed portion to provide a subassembly, in which the deformed portion is utilized to releaseably secure the third component to the sub assembly via a fourth component.

Abstract: A gate for fence enclosures includes a pair of spaced vertical frame members with a pair of horizontal frame members extending between and into a top and bottom end of the vertical frame members. Mesh screen is tensioned between the vertical and horizontal frame members. A pair of support members is used for each of vertical frame member with mounting plates connecting the top and bottom of each pair of support members. Hinges connect the gate to the support members and facilitate closing and opening. A latching device enables the gate to be secured to the support members.

Abstract: A roofing shingle for mounting to a roof surface which comprises a flat rectangular panel made of metallic sheet material and has top and under sides and side edges. The top side displays along at least two of the side edges a series of dimples defining corresponding bosses on the under side which lie flush with the roof surface. A series of connecting elements have one end mounted to a corresponding boss and an opposite end projecting beyond the side edges for being connected to the roof surface. The shingle includes locating means on its top and under sides for positioning the shingle with a corresponding like shingle to define an overlapping region therebetween. A roof covering using these roofing shingles which are interconnected and staggered along the roof surface with their respective under sides substantially parallel to one another and in close contact at the overlapping region.

Abstract: In a wall element (1, 2) for a mobile dividing wall with a wall member (3) and a border profile (4), the said profile comprises a base member (G), which is firmly joined to the wall member (3), and a revolving element (10, 10′) mounted therein to turn around its axis (15). The base member (G) comprises two lips (18) bearing substantially against the revolving element (10, 10′). The revolving element (10, 10′) is coated on part of its surface with burr material (16) and is otherwise provided with at least one further surface structure. Depending on the angular position of the revolving element, the burr material (16) or alternatively the different surface structure or one of the different surface structures is exposed externally between the two lips (18).

Abstract: A hollow frame member is constituted by two face plates 11, 12 (21, 22) joined in a truss shape by ribs. End portions of one of the face plates are positioned in the vicinity of an apex of the truss structure of the hollow frame member. End portions of the other of the face plates have a projection extending toward the end portions of the face plates. The face plates are joined by friction stir welding. Due to the presence of the ribs, the load during the friction stir welding time is easily supported.

Abstract: A utility line support beam resists compressive forces while preventing moisture from entering the interior of the beam. A reinforcing member is placed within the interior of the beam. The reinforcing member is positioned to absorb any compressive forces resulting from either mounting the beam on a utility pole or mounting other structures to the beam. The beam is sealed to prevent moisture from entering.

Abstract: A wood pole having a wood body defined by a stripped tree trunk is reinforced by strips of composite reinforcement wrapped helically around the wood body, wherein the reinforcement comprises parallel high strength filaments in a resin matrix. The thickness and/or number of layers of reinforcement can be varied along the length of the pole to best suit the loading to which the pole is to be subjected. The reinforcement also performs the functions of the prevention of rot, insect infestation and water absorption, which are conventionally performed by harmful materials such as creosote. An electrical conductor can extend the length of the pole, protected under the reinforcement, which is transparent to electromagnetic signals, to act as an antenna or as a ground wire. No-maintenance color, fire retardant and/or reflective elements can be mixed in with the resin during the reinforcing of the pole.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices for positioning frame members for fabricating a wood frame. Each device includes an elongated flexible member and wood blocks that are removably attached to the flexible member. The length of the wood blocks equals the required distance between the frame members. The blocks are separated by slots wherein the frame members are snugly fitted in order to properly position the frame members for fabricating a wood frame structure. The wood blocks can be removed from the device for subsequent use in frame structures, thus reducing lumber waste.

Abstract: A method for constructing a ballasted roof system (20) includes the steps of installing a roofing membrane (14) onto a roof structure (12). A ballast (16, 32) is disposed on the roofing membrane, wherein the ballast has applied thereto a reflective paint (21) to improve the solar reflective properties of the ballasted roof system. The improved roofing system has solar reflective properties at least 35%.