Abstract: Improvements in material-to-material connections are provided. For example, metal-to-metal connections are improved, such as the interface connection between a dental handpiece bur tube (10) and a component such as a bearing (12). At least one marking, such as a laser marking (20) is provided such that an amount of excavate material (21) is excavated from the marking (20). When a component such as a bearing (12) is positioned upon the bur tube (10), a portion of the excavate material (21) is physically impinged between the two components (10, 12) filling any spaces or gaps therebetween.

Abstract: A license plate holder for diffusing the flashlight of a vehicle-detection camera at different angles, comprising a fixed part connected to the vehicle and a movable part that may be positioned at different angles to the vehicle, by spacing them apart with differing lengths pins or at a fixed angle, by the fixed part having an angled shape, wherein the movable part holds a license plate and a license plate cover having a micro-prismatic lens.

Abstract: A two part indexing and signage system for use with shopping carts and store aisles. The first part of the device includes a general indexing system attached to the back panel of the child seat on a shopping cart. The second part is in connection with the shelving typically containing the products in the aisle of the store and contains an alpha numerical key having three characters associated with each item in order to identify particular product positions within that aisle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a Christmas decorative box, which includes a lighting source and lighting fibers. The outer end of the lighting fiber can be extended and connected with the shell of the box at the surrounding positions. When the lighting source is lighting, the light can be emitted through the lighting fiber to the surrounding surface of the box to obtain a multiple lighting spots for a whole lighting mask decorative effect.

Abstract: An outdoor advertising system has a lightweight hollow mast; a mounting base for the mast; a direct-insert anchor securing system; and a range of three dimensional artifacts, and banners that are weather insensitive. The mast mounts on the base, having lightweight fittings, including a top-mounted rotatable cantilever arm enabling the arm and its banner to “weathervane” in the wind. An ovoid hooped frame embodiment pivotally cantilevered from the mast, supports a sleeved banner like a wind-sock. The ovoid shape provides effective side display areas. Another elongated banner embodiment with several triangular banners in spaced angular relation as a form of tree encloses the mast, with the bottom outer corners of the banners ground anchored, serving as mast stays. A drinking cup embodiment may be mounted about the mast. The fabric artifacts stand up to fourteen feet in height.

Abstract: A reflective covering for signposts and the like including a cover member adapted for securement to a signpost and the like. The cover member is comprised of a pliable panel adapted for conforming to the signpost and the like. The pliable panel has an inner surface and an outer surface. The inner surface is positionable against the signpost and the like. The outer surface includes a reflective coating disposed thereon.

Abstract: A multi-purpose graphics display enclosure assembly comprised of a transparent shield, a decor insert or inserts, a backer plate therefor, and a frame configured to perimeter-retain the above against and removably snap over the perimeter of a base plate which is removably attached to a functional or decorative artifact by one of a variety of means that are concealed in or behind the assembled enclosure, said assembly planar surfaces of shield, decor, decor backer plate and base plate having aligned apertures for electric switches and/or receptacles or communication line outlets or the like, said base plate having additional apertures for detachable attachment fasteners with which to secure said base plate to any one of a variety of artifacts or surfaces.

Abstract: Discloses a method of making scanning hooks with a release agent on the label attachment tab. Stock is formed by laminating a plastic sheet which will provide the main carrier body of the overlay and a thin film which has a release agent strongly bonded to its outer surface. The film is bonded to the main plastic layer, such as by an adhesive. Overlay blanks are cut from the resulting laminate stock as by die cutting. The overlay blanks then are bent and mounted on scanning hooks, with the tab portion extending essentially vertically and presenting an outwardly exposed release surface which provides ready appliability, removability and replaceability of merchandising labels which bear information related to the products supported on the hanger.

Abstract: A photographic display box is formed as an enclosure with a plurality of display faces and opposing ends. A plurality of photographs are located within the enclosure and between the ends and behind the display faces of the box. Retainers within the box hold the photographs with their longitudinal edges parallel to each other and with their transverse, upper and lower edges flexed in a concave disposition facing outwardly toward the display faces of the box. The photographs are located between transverse upper and lower transparent or translucent panels. Electrical illumination fixtures located in illumination cavities between these panels and the ends of the display box shine upon the concave faces of the photographs through the nonopaque panels with direct illumination.

Abstract: An improved telescopic gunsight is provided by combining a conventional telescopic gunsight with a reticle having a primary vertical cross-hair, a primary horizontal cross-hair intersecting the primary vertical cross-hair, a plurality of secondary horizontal cross-hairs having predetermined thickness evenly spaced a predetermined distance along the primary vertical cross-hair, a plurality of secondary vertical cross-hairs having predetermined thickness evenly spaced a predetermined distance along at least some of the secondary horizontal cross-hairs and an optical range-finder for quickly determining the range to the intended target. Some of the secondary horizontal cross-hairs are marked with a unique identifying character to assist the shooter in quickly finding an aiming point.

Abstract: A motion decoy system is provided to attract a desirable quarry of waterfowls. The system includes a shaft having a plurality of arms and an outer bearing tube rotatably attached to each said arm. Each adjacent arm points to an opposite direction to each other. The shaft is rotatably supported under a body of water in a target area by multiple supporting posts. A plurality of floating decoys placed upon the water is operatively attached to the bearing tube by a guide wire. A motor is supported by multiple supporting posts beneath the water. The shaft is operatively attached to the motor. The motor is electrically controlled by a user, whereby said motor imparts rotation movements upon the shaft in response to control signals from the user, whereby rotations of the arms of the shaft causing animated movements of the decoys to attract the quarry of waterfowls, wherein said animated movement simulates feeding activities of ducks, geese, or other waterfowls.

Abstract: A shaped fish hook guard designed to enclose various sized fish hooks or gangs of fish hooks pivotally suspended from a lure. The fishook guard is made of hard plastic that comprises a slotted casing through which the shank of a fish hook can be slid and a snap on cover extending partially over an open end of a pair of opposite coincident slots. Where the lure is not used, a fishing line passes through a slot to be attached to the shank of a single pronged hook.

Abstract: A fish lure having a hook removably attached at its tail end, said hook supported approximately horizontally, in parallel with the longitudinal axis of the body of the fish lure by a support filament. One end of the support filament is attached to the tail end of the lure, and the other end of the support filament to the hook. When thus supported, a dressed hook simulates the natural motion of a fish tail fin when the lure is pulled through water. The approximately horizontal position of the hook creates a weedless lure.

Abstract: A fishhook with a shank having a first end and a second end, the first end having an eyelet, the second end having a generally u-shaped portion with a pointed distal end. An operable member has a first end that is pivotally connected to the shank adjacent the u-shaped portion of the first hook and includes a distal portion with a pointed end extending toward the fish hook first end. The operable member is pivotal between a first position with the distal portion adjacent to the shank and a second position with the distal portion spaced apart from the shank. In one embodiment, a biasing member urges the distal portion of the operable member toward the shank.

Abstract: A device for use during outdoor activities for protection against crawling insects such as deer ticks carrying Lyme Disease includes a set of protection elements. The elements consist of a substrate with an adhesive layer at each surface. A first (inner) adhesive layer is provided for removable attachment of the protection element upon clothing surfaces in regions adjacent to clothing openings where a second (outer) adhesive layer is exposed to impede advancement of crawling insects toward clothing openings, and preferably to securely trap deer ticks that contact the surface. One or both adhesive surfaces may be covered with release sheets removed prior to use. A shield may extend outwardly from the plane of the substrate, generally above the outer adhesive layer, to shield the adhesive surface from the elements, e.g., rain, dew, dust, leaves, grasses, etc., for extending the effective life of the protection element.

Abstract: An in-ground bait station for pest detection and control includes a first housing tube fixedly implanted into the ground and a removable reservoir within the housing. The reservoir contains pesticide for detecting and controlling pest activity, and can be inspected or replaced by removing the reservoir from the housing. The bait station further includes a cap to provide evaporation control and tampering resistance when the reservoir and housing are installed below ground and to provide an additional receptacle containing bait for detecting and controlling pest activity. The cap includes a detachable bait tray. The bait tray contains a receptacle between an inner and outer edge for holding bait. The bait tray is designed to cooperate with the housing to oppose rotational movement of the cap when the bait station is in an operational state. The cap is designed to cooperate with the bait tray to provide evaporation control and tampering resistance when the housing and bait tray are installed in the ground.

Abstract: A stand supports a burnable coil such as a mosquito coil. There is a base suitable to rest on a support surface which is positionable at least partially beneath the coil. There is also a retainer clip linked to the base that is simultaneously positionable along a top side of the coil near a central opening of the coil, through the opening, and along a bottom side of the coil adjacent the opening. Methods of using such stands and stand/coil assemblies are described.

Abstract: Non chemical baits utilizing cardboard, and wood, the termites food preference to attract the foraging termites around the foundation and away from the house and to the bait so they can easily be discovered by the homeowner before they enter and cause damage to the house.

Abstract: A lighter fluid composition usable for starting barbecues and the like that comprises naturally occurring combustible materials, which is clean burning and results in low volatile organic compound (VOC) emission during combustion, which is biodegradable and easily disposable, and which burns with a pleasant aroma and does not impart any unpleasant hydrocarbon odor or flavor to food cooked on a barbecue. The composition preferably comprises between approximately 0.5 weight percent and approximately 90 weight percent of a terpene or terpenoid oil, and between approximately 0.5 weight percent and approximately 98.5 weight percent of short chain alcohol, between approximately 0.5 weight percent and approximately 60 weight percent of water, between approximately 0.1 weight percent and approximately 10 weight percent of surfactant, and between approximately 0.5 weight percent and approximately 10 weight percent of thickening agent.

Abstract: A method of reducing cold injury or damage to plants such as peanut, citrus trees, peaches, strawberries and other plants susceptible to cold injury such as frost or freezing comprises applying a pyridylaniline active agent such as fluazinam to the plant in an amount effective to reduce cold injury to the plant.

Abstract: A landscape fabric is disclosed that maximizes the use of natural and irrigated water. The landscape fabric includes at least one layer of fluid pervious material, and a plurality of hydration dams attached to the surface of the pervious material. The hydration dams capture irrigation and natural water run-off, which provides more efficient moisture control to the underlying surface and landscape plantings.

Abstract: A fastener to secure and train branches of a vine or plant to a horizontal support wire or other structures comprises a longitudinal body including first and second hook portions and a longitudinal flexible member having first and second ends connected to the respective first and second hook portions. The first and second hook portions are mirror images of each other but rotated 180°.

Abstract: The present invention describes a method for inducing improved seed germination in a high altitude medicinal plant, Podophyllum hexandrum Royle through hot water treatment at 40° C.-100° C. for 30-120 seconds.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the treatment of coal to form a valuable product gas such as methane (CH4), that may be augmented with hydrogen gas, and a high purity carbon product. The coal feedstock can advantageously be a low-grade coal that contains high levels of impurities. Reactants and by-products are advantageously recycled within the process system to enhance the economics of the process.

Abstract: A window shade comprises a lower rail, two upright posts, an upper rail, and a plurality of rail members. The upright posts are connected uprightly with two sides of the lower rail. The upper rail is connected with free ends of the upright posts. Each of the rail members has a main body, a through hole, and a rod. The through hole penetrates two side ends of the main body. The rod is disposed in the through hole such that two ends of the rod are jutted out of the through hole to be connected between the two upright posts. The rail members are parallel to one another and are connected between the two upright posts.

Abstract: A multi-position window includes a stationary window frame, a sash window frame positioned within the stationary window frame and selectively pivotable out of the stationary window frame about a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and a drive train positioned between the sash window frame and the stationary window frame. The drive train is preferably moveable between at least a first position which enables the sash window frame to be pivoted about the vertical axis and a second position which enables that sash window frame to be pivoted about the horizontal axis. The drive train is preferably moved by a mechanical actuator which is concealed in the sash window frame to create a pleasing aesthetic appearance and is operatively connected to the drive train to move the drive train from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: A vehicle door cinching apparatus for assisting the final closing motion of a sliding vehicle door includes an electromagnet, a ferrous metal plate, a cinch drive and a controller. The electromagnet mounts on either an outer periphery of a vehicle sliding door or an inner periphery of a vehicle sliding door frame that's shaped to receive the sliding door as the door moves along a final inward cinching portion of a door path to a final closed position within the door frame. The plate is supported on the other of the outer periphery of the door and the inner periphery of the door frame in a position where the plate can magnetically engage the electromagnet when the door is disposed along the final cinching portion of the door path. Whichever of the plate and electromagnet is supported on the inner periphery of the door frame is also supported for lateral movement in a direction generally parallel to the cinching portion of the door path.

Abstract: An exterior door incorporates first and second overlays which extend laterally from the sides of the door so as to cover spaces between the door and the respective sides of the door frame. A third overlay can be attached to and extend across the top of the door, perpendicular to the overlays which extend along the sides of the door to cover the space between the top of the frame and the top of the door. The overlays frame, in part, the exterior surface of the door.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to vacuum lids, and in particular, vacuum lids that are compatible with containers to preserve food stored in the container. An embodiment of the invention includes a top surface with an access aperture, a plurality of raised members of varying heights, and a removable raised member that covers a container valve. A vacuum is applied to the container valve, wherein air from the container is removed from the container. The container is then sealed with a membrane, thereby holding a vacuum inside the container.

Abstract: A sealing structure includes a door opening portion formed around a door opening in a vehicle body, and a weather strip secured to the door opening portion. The weather strip has a base portion and a tubular seal portion which is pushed by a vehicle door when the door opening is closed. End edges of an outer body panel and an inner body panel which compose the door opening portion are placed on and joined to each other, thereby forming a flat joint. The outer body panel has a concave surface from the outside of the flat joint to a side surface of the vehicle body. The concave surface is composed of a first surface which bends from the outside of the flat joint into an L-shaped configuration and extends outwardly of the door opening portion, and a second surface which bends from the first surface into an L-shaped configuration and extends towards the side surface of the vehicle body.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for mixing a corrosive mixture is provided. The apparatus having a lid for sealing an opening to the mixing vessel. The lid easily and quickly operated in addition to providing a secure pressure tight seal. It is necessary for the lid to be easily and conveniently operated to assure use of the lid.

Abstract: A chemical mechanical polishing slurry and method for using the slurry for polishing copper, barrier material and dielectric material that comprises a first and second slurry. The first slurry has a high removal rate on copper and a low removal rate on barrier material. The second slurry has a high removal rate on barrier material and a low removal rate on copper and dielectric material. The first and second slurries at least comprise silica particles, an oxidizing agent, a corrosion inhibitor, and a cleaning agent.

Abstract: A method of making a slurry, by mixing a quantity of water with dissolvable constituents of an aqueous slurry used for polishing, with the dissolvable constituents being apportioned according to their desired percent concentrations thereof in the aqueous slurry, and drying the mixture to obtain a reconstitutable slurry having solids of the dissolvable constituents.

Abstract: First and second wings are adapted to be mounted in end to end relation to one another at an angle conforming to an inside corner of a gutter cover on which they are adapted to be mounted, and in a position to receive water flowing off of a trough disposed between two roof slopes. Each wing is formed with a plurality of generally uniform, upwardly projecting ridges, a front anchoring flange and a rear anchoring flange.

Abstract: A pliable cage-like container having rigid tiles (03a) inter-connected by tensile rods (03b) which in turn are capped by securing finials (03c). The cage may be repeatedly flexed without breaking to allow an optimum containment configuration for the growing environment of the chosen plant. In addition, base tiles (03d) and a screen insert (01e) may be used to further enhance the container for use by other plant genera or a small grained growing medium.

Abstract: A post and beam furniture system includes a plurality of overhead beams, and a plurality of vertical posts having at least one outwardly extending flange with a single slot extending vertically along the end face of the flange. Beam-to-post connectors are attached to the opposite ends of the beams, and are detachably retained in the slots in the posts for mounting the beams on the upper ends of the posts. The furniture system may also include X-shaped posts and Y-shaped posts with slots which create an integrated mounting arrangement for detachably interconnecting the posts and beams in alternative configurations, and mounting accessories at a variety of different locations.

Abstract: A workspace display for open plan spaces includes a partition with a plurality of freestanding partition walls configured to divide a building space into at least one workspace. The workspace has an opening permitting user ingress and egress, and the partition has a height lower than a ceiling height to form a gap between a top edge of the partition and a ceiling. The workspace display includes a dry erasable whiteboard secured to the partition, and a video device is mounted to the partition in a generally overhead position in optical communication with the whiteboard, such that an occupant of the workspace can electronically manipulate images on the whiteboard.

Abstract: A flashing comprises a preformed plastics element having a body (1) with an inner face (13) and an outer face (11), the body having an upper edge (3), a lower edge (5), a first end (7) and a second end (9), and a continuous lip (15) formed along the upper edge, which lip is directed away from the outer face of the body.

Abstract: A barrel has a sector-shaped main board and a polygonal base board. A plurality of periphery plates are disposed on a periphery of the polygonal base board. Each periphery plate has a periphery folding line and a round hole. The sector-shaped main board has a plurality of longitudinal folding lines, a connection plate, a plurality of rectangular plates, and a plurality of decoration plates. Each rectangular plate has a slot. Each decoration plate has a transverse folding line and an insertion protrusion. The connection plate and one of the rectangular plates are fastened together. Each periphery plate and each rectangular plate are fastened together by a bolt and a nut.

Abstract: A kind of life maintenance apparatus to be used in case of earthquake or other disasters when users are buried in debris of collapsed building. The six sides box-type bed includes two parallel upper and bottom layers of high strength material made plates, two covering plates at front and back, and two adjustable plates on both sides. Beneath the upper layer, there are certain chambers of storage for life maintenance stocks and oxygen reproducer and one wireless signal transmitter. On the bottom layer, there is a rubber cushion layer on top of which fixed with manul instant inflating air cushion, together with safety-belt. Thanks to the high anti-impact material shell of the apparatus, it's signaling apparatus and life-maintenance stocks, it could well provide its inhabitants in case of need, sufficient protection from strike, material for life maintaining for over 20 days. It exists in your bedroom as a normal bed.

Abstract: A framing fastener for connecting framing construction members providing multi-planar attachment surfaces which is made from a single piece of stock. The framing fastener is perfect for attaching a brace to a post or a beam. It is economically made from one piece of sheet metal stock and produces added strength because it is a single member.

Abstract: An elongate continuous soffit panel having an adjustable width comprises a first member having a soffit portion including a proximal periphery and a generally parallel and spaced apart distal periphery extending along a lengthwise dimension of the soffit panel, and having a fascia portion coextensive with the soffit portion along the distal periphery and extending generally upwardly therefrom for fastening the soffit panel to roof fascia of a building. The continuous soffit panel also comprises a second member connected to the first member and having a flange portion extending generally at an angle from the soffit portion of the first member for fastening the soffit panel to a side of a building, the second member being adjustably connected to the first member so that the width of the soffit panel is adjustable responsive to variations in distance between the side of the building and the roof fascia.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved method of making cornice assemblies and other trim members utilizing the process of pultrusion. The cornice assemblies and the other trim members made by the method of the present invention exhibit superior strength to weight ratios, low expansion and contraction due to changes in temperature and humidity, as well being less labor intensive to install.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for lifting and leveling an existing building from a position underneath the existing building. At least a first non-cylindrical support section having a substantially rectangular shape and first and second ends is located within the earth at a position underneath the existing building. A cap support section is placed in contact with the second end of the first non-cylindrical support section. A jack is disposed on the upper side of the cap support section and raised until the foundation of the existing building has been lifted to a desired height. The non-cylindrical support section has low bearing and high friction characteristics. The low bearing characteristics enable the apparatus to be driven further into the earth than cylindrical pilings that are commonly used to lift and level existing buildings. The high friction characteristics assist in maintaining the stability of the apparatus once it has been installed.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for lifting and leveling an existing building. At least a first non-cylindrical support section having a substantially rectangular shape and a second support section are coupled together by a fastening device that provides the apparatus with stability once the apparatus has been installed. A jack is used to raise the foundation of the existing building to a desired height. The apparatus is attached to the foundation of the building from underneath the building or from a location adjacent a side of the building. The non-cylindrical support section has low bearing and high friction characteristics. The low bearing characteristics enable the apparatus to be driven further into the earth than cylindrical pilings that are commonly used to lift and level existing buildings. The high friction characteristics assist in maintaining the stability of the apparatus once it has been installed.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method are provided for lifting and leveling an existing building from a position adjacent a side of the existing building. One or more non-cylindrical support sections having a substantially rectangular shapes and first and second ends are driven into the earth at a position adjacent a side of the existing building. A jack is used to lift the existing building to a desired height. The foundation of the building is then bracketed to the uppermost non-cylindrical support section to maintain the building at the new level. The non-cylindrical support section has low bearing and high friction characteristics. The low bearing characteristics enable the apparatus to be driven further into the earth than cylindrical pilings that are commonly used to lift and level existing buildings. The high friction characteristics assist in maintaining the stability of the apparatus once it has been installed.

Abstract: An anchor device comprising an elongated insert which has a lower end, an upper end, and a plurality of rib members extending radially therefrom, each of said rib members having a radial width which increases gradually in a direction from said lower end to said upper end of said elongated insert; an attachment seat integrally connected to said upper end of said insert and upper edges of said rib members; a metal shaft embedded longitudinally in said elongated insert, said metal shaft having an upper end which is embedded in said attachment seat, and a lower end which extends out of said lower end of said insert; and wherein said lower end of said metal shaft is tapered.

Abstract: A disaster shelter for mounting under ground. The shelter includes an entranceway having at least one air vent and a substantially hollow paraboloid shaped shelter cell. The shelter cell includes a paraboloid focus portion attached to the entranceway and paraboloid base portion disposed opposite the entranceway. A gravity ring is attached to the paraboloid base portion and is dimensioned such that the shelter is constrained within the ground when the water table reaches ground level.

Abstract: A dock leveler, for bridging the gap between a loading dock platform and a vehicle at the dock, includes an adjustably overlapping lip and ramp that provide a traffic surface of variable length to accommodate situations where there is only a limited amount of space for the lip to rest on the rear of the vehicle. The lip pivots and translates from a stored, pendant orientation to an operative orientation with a range of extended positions. In the stored position, one edge of the lip protrudes above the deck to inhibit material handling equipment from accidentally driving over the edge of the deck when a vehicle is not parked adjacent the dock leveler.

Abstract: A support for steps, having the shape of a triangular corner plate to be installed one after the other along a stringer. The sides of this support are reinforced, horizontally and vertically, to fix the steps and risers. The ends are wider so successive supports overlap when installed. The wide part of the horizontal side includes in one embodiment a horizontal adjustment slit and the wide part of the vertical side includes a series of holes, at least one coinciding with the slit at the time of the installation on the stringer. Each wide part includes a second series of fixing holes spaced apart to secure the wide parts to the stringer. In another embodiment there is no slit but instead there is a pair of graduation rulers which overlap and permit direct reading of the width and of the height.