Abstract: A token is manufactured using a combination of minting or casting operations and printing operations. The token comprises a metal base material that is minted or cast to the size and shape desired including embossed or debossed areas at selected locations on the token. In selected recessed or countersunk portions of the token, there are provided thin disks of material capable of carrying printed material such as single-colored or multi-colored pictures or indicia. The imprinted disk portions of the token are covered with a first protective coating and, optionally a second protective coating, that eliminates wear and tear on the printed areas of the token. Additionally or alternatively, the entire token can be covered with an outer coating to minimize wear and tear and preserve the unique designs carried by the token.

Abstract: An improved information marking plate used to record data for easy reference. Although the present invention has many applications, a primary objective of the present invention is that it be used to record basic and essential electrical information concerning electric fixtures, receptacles, and devices, in both high voltage and low voltage environments.

Abstract: A visual display including a container, liquidous fluid within the container, a source of gaseous fluid communicating with the liquidous fluid, and at least one binary bubble formed within the liquidous fluid in response to gaseous fluid entering the liquidous fluid. The liquidous fluid is preferably a polymer in water solution or a polymer in mineral oil or silicon oil solution. The binary bubble has two bulbous portions in fluid communication with each other through a neck. The binary bubbles may link together in a chain extending from the bottom of the container to the top of the liquidous fluid. In other constructions, the binary bubbles float up through the liquidous fluid and collapse into a large individual bubble. The display may also include a light emitting source and a filter for selectively changing the color of light emitted into the container.

Abstract: A system for delivering audio, visual, or audiovisual entertainment, educational material and advertising to users of public and private restrooms, including visual images, and or sound programming, throughout the restroom or in discrete areas thereof, placed so that the images and/or sound can be conveniently seen and/or heard by users of these facilities. Optionally the system may be programmed to turn on when the restroom facilities are being used, and to be turned off either when the facility is vacated, or after a set time has elapsed.

Abstract: Methods and print media useful for the generation of customized picture frames for the framing of photographs, drawings, graphics, collages and other visual formats. The embodiments include specialized print media for use in conventional imaging devices and their methods of use. The print media includes an interior portion removably attached to a surrounding portion. The interior portion is adapted to remain with the surrounding portion as an image is transferred to a printable surface of the print media using an imaging device. The interior portion may subsequently be removed from the surrounding portion without cutting.

Abstract: An optical device controller in the type of imitative gun, which comprises a trigger-like portion, a barrel-like portion having a muzzle-like opening, a gas passage forming portion fixed in connection with a rear end of the barrel-like portion for providing a gas passage formed therein, a grip portion in which a gas chamber and a gas leading passage for leading a gas from the gas chamber to the gas passage formed in the gas passage forming portion are provided, an optical device positioned in the barrel-like portion to face the outside through the muzzle-like opening, an operation controlling portion for sifting the optical device from an inoperative condition to an operating condition in response to movement of the trigger-like portion, a movable valve provided on the gas leading passage for controlling the gas leading passage to be open in response to the movement of the trigger-like portion, and a sliding member having a pressure receiving portion formed therein to be positioned at the back of the barrel-l

Abstract: A fishing lure having one or more stationary weights, at least partially encapsulated during the manufacturing process within a flexible body portion or appendages thereof, and independent of any mechanical connection to the hook, line, line tie, or any wire harness or frame which may be incorporated into the lure, is presented. The one or more weights are of a material that is insoluble in water.

Abstract: An animal trap for capturing small animals, such as rodents, and birds and a method for using the trap. The trap includes a chamber having side walls, an entrance, and a perforated end wall opposite the entrance; a first platform adjacent the entrance pivotally mounted to the side walls, the first platform providing a path from the entrance; a second platform located away from the entrance pivotally mounted to the side walls and having a first end extending beneath the first platform; and means for holding the first and second platforms in an essentially horizontal position; wherein when an animal passes through the entrance and contacts the second platform, the second platform pivotally deflects and pivotally deflects the second platform wherein the first platform obstructs the entrance and the animal is captured. The means for holding the two platforms in an essentially horizontal position may be a rod or bar which engages part of the trap housing.

Abstract: A flying insect trapping device configured to be used with a fuel supply containing combustible fuel. The device may include a supporting frame; an insect trap chamber carried on the supporting frame; and a combustion device which may also be carried on the supporting frame. The combustion device comprises an inlet port for connection with the fuel supply, an exhaust port, and a combustion chamber communicating the inlet port with the exhaust port. The inlet port enables the fuel from the fuel supply to flow into the combustion chamber for continuous combustion therein to create an exhaust gas within the combustion chamber. The combustion device further includes a catalyst element disposed within the combustion chamber. The catalyst element has a catalyst body with a plurality of essentially linear elongated conduits for enabling the exhaust gas created in the combustion chamber to flow therethrough towards the exhaust port.

Abstract: These firestarters comprise parts of the dead yucca Whipplei plant and the folicles from the Magnolia Grandiflora tree, wicking, wax and fabric. The inner core along with the hard outer shell of the yucca Whipplei stalk, the dead basal leaf rosette of the yucca Whipplei and the Magnolia folicle used with a yucca Whipplei stalk are all very conducive to use in a formula to develop a firestarter.

Abstract: A method of providing a refuge for caterpillar larvae, which are susceptible to plants expressing delta endotoxin of Bacillus thuringiensis so as to delay and possibly prevent the susceptible species from developing resistance to the toxin. Also provided is a method of cultivating paulownia trees so as to provide an effective refuge for the susceptible caterpillar larvae.

Abstract: A self-clamping Christmas tree stand provides a stable platform for a Christmas tree that allows simple installation and adjustment of the tree angle without having to be positioned under the tree to perform the adjustments. The tree stand uses the weight of the tree to firmly clamp the tree's trunk. A clamping mechanism provides a constant grip that will not loosen unless an upward force is provided by the user. The adjustment range of the tree trunk angle with respect to the vertical plane may be varied to accommodate tree trunks of different shapes. Lastly, the tree stand includes a large liquid reservoir to maintain the tree's moisture content.

Abstract: A floral display includes small pieces of colored foam positioned within a vase, enabling the vase to hold more water than prior displays and allows easier insertion of weak flower stems. In addition, the floral display enhances the decorative nature of the floral display by facilitating easy use of color foam pieces that coordinates with the flower colors used in the display. The foam elements are small in comparison to the size of the vase.

Abstract: A method of enhancing plant growth comprises the step of introducing an alkane into a location adjacent to a plant. The alkane can be introduced intermittently, and can be combined with another gas and/or nutrients. The alkane preferably comprises a butane substrate. The butane substrate can stimulate the growth of butane-utilizing bacteria, such as Aeromonas caviae, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Micrococcus varians, Aureobacterium esteroaromaticum, Aureobacterium barkeri, Rhodococcus fascians, Nocardia paradoxus, Comamonas acidovorans and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The alkane can increase the amount of heterotrophic bacteria in the location adjacent to the plant, and thereby accelerate a heterotrophic nitrification process. The butane substrate can also stimulate the growth of butane-utilizing fungi. The method can also enhance the growth protists and/or prokaryotes. A system for enhancing plant growth in accordance with the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A mobile, indoor, sit-and-plant gardening station that provides individuals with the year round opportunity to enjoy their love of plants and gardening well into their later years in life and enables them to garden sitting down.

Abstract: Methods are provided for growing a plant in a grower's container at a grower's location prior to shipment to wholesale or retail distribution points for sale of the plant, the grower's container having an aesthetically pleasing appearance without the use of a decorative cover when a grown plant contained therein is on display at wholesale or retail distribution points.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming a cover about an article and for automatically fastening the cover to the article, and optionally for automatically placing a label on the covered article. The article may be an article such as a potted plant and the cover may be a decorative cover. The apparatus includes a platform having at least one opening sized to allow passage therethrough of an article a conveyable cover forming assembly having contacting portions for contacting the sheet of material, and a tying device for automatically applying a band or fastener about a portion of the outer surface of a covered article for fastening a cover about the article.

Abstract: A method of producing a synthesis gas by a reforming reaction of an organic compound with a reforming agent, in which the reforming reaction is performed using nonthermal plasma.

Abstract: An integrated sash lock and tilt latch assembly for a sash window is disclosed. The integrated assembly comprises a handle movable among a first, a second and a third position to adjust the assembly among a respective locked, unlocked and tiltable position. The integrated assembly further comprises a rotor coupled to the handle and comprising a locking cam and the rotor. The integrated assembly further has a pawl operably associated with the handle and abuttingly engages the rotor. The assembly also has a keeper adapted to receives at least a portion of the locking cam and a latch bolt adapted to be slidably disposed in a sash window. A connector is also provided which has a first end and an opposed second end. The first end of the connector is coupled to the latch bolt and the second end of the connector operably engages the appending member of the pawl. The assembly also has a spring for biasing the latch bolt towards one of the guide rails.

Abstract: An operator assembly for shifting a movable barrier between open and closed positions thereof, wherein the operator assembly can be configured to function with a variety of different barrier sizes and orientations. The operator assembly may include one or more interchangeable transmission components for adapting the operator for use with different gate sizes and installations. The operator assembly may also comprise a substantially linear drive train for permitting use with different barrier orientations.

Abstract: A frame mount is provided for an electromechanical prison door lock. The frame includes multiple arrays of mounting apertures which allow fasteners to be extended through selected apertures which match the locations of mounting holes in the lock. A cutout formed in a face and side member of the frame form a pocket in which the lock is mounted. A lock cover plate is removably mounted to the frame to cover the cutout in the face and includes an opening for the lock cylinder. A latch cover plate is carried by the lock cover plate and is positioned to cover the cutout in the side member. Cutouts are provided in the latch cover plate for the lock latch bolt and latching roller. The frame may be installed in an opening in a cell or passage wall prior to selection of the lock type, thereby reducing construction delays that may be experienced with conventional frames that are fabricated only after the lock type has been selected.

Abstract: A lid support bracket assembly is provided for supporting a pool cover box lid that includes a wall mount, and a bracket connected to the wall mount that can be angularly adjusted relative to the wall mount.

Abstract: A supporting wall installation, in particular to attach sanitary units in the form of washstands, WCs, bidets, urinals and the like, is characterized by support columns which are substantially triangular or trapezoidal in horizontal section and consist of a torsionally stiff frame construction and at least one areal planking attached to the respective support column and forming a supporting wall installation together with the support column or the support columns.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for constructing edging around the perimeter of a swimming pool having a decking and a retractable pool cover, wherein an elongated guide connector is attached to a wall of the swimming pool for connecting to a guide member for the pool cover, that includes a form member shaped to form the edging, and a form mating structure on the form member for removably mating the form member to the elongated guide connector.

Abstract: The collapsible land anchor of this invention includes an anchor body, a drive anvil coupled to the top end portion of the anchor body, and a runner member that is slidable longitudinally through the drive anvil between an operative position and a collapsed position. A retraction anvil is coupled to the top end portion of the runner member, and a hammer weight is carried on the runner member. In its operative position, the runner member extends beyond the drive anvil away from the cavity of the anchor body to space the drive anvil apart from the retraction anvil. Also in the operative position, the hammer weight is slidable along the runner member into the drive anvil to drive the anchor body into the ground. In the collapsed position, the runner member is displaced towards and at least partially stowed in the cavity of the anchor body.

Abstract: A breakaway signpost connector for attaching a sign support member to an anchor member. The connector includes a shear member having a first end, a second end, and a necked-down section between the first and second ends. A spring surrounds the shear member and supports the necked-down section.

Abstract: Various desiccant, vapor barrier and/or sealant components are provided for a multipane window unit sash assembly having an integral glazing pane mounting structure. The components have varying shapes and features, which may include glazing pane mounting surfaces, spacer functions, dual seal capabilities and muntin bar retaining functions. Various materials can be used to fabricate the components, including adhesive, sealant, sealant strip, tape, foam, resin, metallic or plastic materials, or combinations of such materials. The components may be preformed, extruded onto the sash, or otherwise applied. Automated assembly of the components to the sash is also disclosed.

Abstract: The object of this invention is to provide a fireproof structure for protecting water pipes which have stable durability even in the high temperature gas environment, even in the case where it falls off, does not leave the water pipes suddenly exposed, and an installation method employing a fire proof structure. The fireproof structure for protecting water pipes 25B installed on the water pipe walls of the combustion gas side is configured by a double-layered structure consisting of an outer layer water pipe protective structure facing towards the combustion gas side, which is fireproof tile 13, and an inner layer water pipe protective structure provided between the outer layer water pipe protective structure and the water pipes, which is fireproof castable 12.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the improvement on the assembly structure of door leaf with glass, and more particularly relates to the halving structure of two halving injected frames having the same structure with glass. The back-side circumferences of the halving injected frames with glass have a plurality of male tenons and female tenons which are disposed correspondingly each other top-to-bottom and left-to-right. By using the structures of male tenon and female tenon and the design of integrally surrounding reinforcing rib, the halving injected frame with glass has U-shape male tenon reinforcing rib and U-shape female tenon reinforcing rib so as to strengthen the strength of the having injected frame with glass; therefore, two halving injected frames (having the same structure) with glass joint each other by male tenons and female tenons to fix a multiple-layer glass, which is then held on a door leaf to quickly assemble a door leaf with glass without the need of joint members such as screws.

Abstract: A windowpane is supported in a gasket by a support member so that a space for allowing the windowpane to shift therein is ensured between an end surface of the windowpane and a surface in a channel of the gasket facing the end surface, the gasket having the channel for receiving a peripheral edge of the windowpane, and the support member being removable from the gasket. The windowpane can be easily removed from a body panel by removing the support member and shifting the windowpane into the space.

Abstract: A modular raised floor system includes rectangular floor panels, each of which has four hollow projections that define a cross-shaped groove. Each adjacent pair of the panels are locked together by a positioning member, which is disposed in two of the grooves and which is formed with two fixed posts that are inserted into two holes in the pair of the panels. A plurality of long and short cover strips are bolted on L-shaped strip-supporting surfaces of the projections, and are located on a horizontal plane. Each of the long cover strips extends on a row of the floor panels, and has cable holes for passage of cables. Each of the short cover strips extends on one or two floor panels. The long and short cover strips are arranged in a net shape so as to cover entirely the grooves.

Abstract: A utility distribution apparatus comprises an inner wall removably mounted on an outer wall within a building structure. The inner and outer walls create a chase for air flow. A floor surface forms a generally closed corner with the outer wall. The inner wall is spaced apart from, and above the floor. One or more horizontally oriented utility conduits are supported from the floor surface or the outer wall and are positioned below the chase. A utility cover is fixed to the inner wall and extends to the floor surface for hiding the utility conduits. A lower and an upper apertures in the outer wall are positioned for receiving and expelling an air flow through the chase.

Abstract: A utility pipe encasement collar for preventing water from weather related sources such as rain and snow from traveling rearwardly along the exterior surface of the utility pipe and into a building structure from which the pipe projects. In a first embodiment the collar includes a weather proof elastomeric sheet material having an opening therethrough sized to inherently huggingly accommodate a utility pipe passed through the opening, and a generally rigid support member extending laterally from the elastomeric sheet material. In a second embodiment the collar includes a first generally rigid weather proof sheet member having an upright generally U-shape opening therethrough and a second generally rigid weather proof sheet member having an inverted generally U-shape opening therethrough.

Abstract: The present invention allows the planner of a multi-storey building project to remove concrete from the critical path of the structure and envelope completion. The system of the present invention accommodates various floor depths, conforms to alternative stud depths and, acts as a compression/tension member for a building during and after construction. The invention relies upon the use of cold-formed metal that is shaped to provide a ring beam which will accommodate the various criteria. A basic shape configuration has been generated to provide the most efficient utilization of materials. Simplifying installation for the many variable conditions that occur in buildings is therefore provided by this modular design, wherein designers and contractors can easily select and use specialized components to meet all design and construction requirements.

Abstract: The present application describes methods and apparatus for installing a load bearing pile 1 which is installed in the line of a perimeter wall, in particular to a perimeter wall consisting of a series of diaphragm wall panels.

Abstract: A bi-functional roof drain includes a housing forming a drain manifold and a primary drain outlet to connect to a primary drainage system. A backup drain pipe penetrates the housing and extends through the manifold. The top of the backup drain pipe is positioned a distance above the housing, which may be variable. With this drain a method of retrofitting a roof drainage system to provide primary and backup water drainage is also presented. This method includes removing an existing uni-functional roof drain from a deck penetration through the roof, and installing a bi-functional roof drain in the same deck penetration. The two drain outlets are connected to the primary and backup drainage system. The height of a top opening of a backup drain pipe of the bi-functional roof drain may be adjustable in relation to a surface of the roof.

Abstract: The present invention relates to configurations of pre-cast panel forming systems and various components of the panel forming systems. In one embodiment, a bulkhead is provided wherein a cross-sectional support member is located at a point along the height dimension of the upstanding portion of the bulkhead so as to provide substantial resistance to reduction of the width dimension under significant panel forming pressure applied to one of the exterior faces of the upstanding walls. In accordance with 37 CFR 1.72(b), the purpose of this abstract is to enable the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract will not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.

Abstract: The present invention provides a construction assembly for interior works, comprising:

Abstract: The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a flange, a first bar, and a second bar. The flange is positioned along a longitudinal axis, and the first bar extends generally orthogonally from the flange. The second bar extends generally orthogonally from the flange. A tab depends generally orthogonally from the first panel engaging surface. At least one of the tab and the flange engage the edge in order to tightly fit within the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the flange in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the flange to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.

Abstract: Sized and shaped attachments made of suitable materials and having a predetermined thickness for straightening and replacing studs, joists and rafters, squaring of openings and for aligning a plurality of the studs, joists and rafters in the framing for a building to provide a planar application surface to which exterior finishing members can be affixed. The attachments have sized and spaced openings thereon operatively associated by frictional engagement with fastening members each having a slidable member thereon to enable the attachments or devices to be adjustably fastened to a given stud, joist or rafter so a plurality of such adjusted attachments or any replacement attachments can be aligned with each other to provide the planar application surface. Methods are provided to align a multiplicity of adjoining studs, joists or rafters, to square and to square and align openings with such attachments to provide the planar application surfaces.

Abstract: A floorboard and an openable locking system therefor comprise an undercut groove on one long side of the floorboard and a projecting tongue on the opposite long side of the floorboard. The undercut groove has a corresponding upwardly directed inner locking surface at a distance from its tip. The tongue and the undercut groove are formed to be brought together and pulled apart by a pivoting motion which has its center close to the intersection between the surface planes and the common joint plane of two adjoining floorboards.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for reinforcing an opening in a support member such as a joist.

Abstract: A structure comprises at least one outer wall having an internal wall section and an outer wall section with an air flow passage therebetween. A circulation system circulates air through the flow passage to inhibit moisture accumulation and mold growth. A sensing system determines the presence of moisture in the flow passage and generates a signal in response thereto. A controller receives the signal from the sensing system and controls the circulation system to maintain a predetermined temperature and relative humidity in the flow passage.

Abstract: The assembly structure of the super-high door of this invention comprises members of two hubbed door skins, a top edge-sealing angle bar, a bottom edge-sealing angle bar, a left edge-sealing angle bar, and a right edge-sealing angle bar. Said hubbed door skins are integrally molded flush-edged structures which are positioned by the flange ribs of the left edge-sealing angle bar and the right edge-sealing angle bar; meanwhile, the top edge-sealing angle bar and the bottom edge-sealing angle bar are positioned by the milled notches at the top and the bottom ends of the left edge-sealing angle bar and the right edge-sealing angle bar.

Abstract: A vehicle glazing provided with a mark indicating a security related attribute of the vehicle. In a laminated glazing the mark is preferably located within the glazing remote from the exterior of the glazing which prevents the mark being soiled and from being damaged or removed from the glazing. The mark may be formed from an ink composition that includes a phosphorescent pigment which enables it to be seen in darkness.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for forming soft capsules and provides novel processing flexibility. The apparatus comprises a three-way valve injector wedge. This injector wedge allows for set-up of the encapsulation machine with a placebo fill and quick change over to active fill. This conserves use of the active ingredient.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for off-loading items of varying size such as electronic packages into receptacles such as tubes, there being means automatically to adjust dimension parameters of the apparatus whereby to accommodate packages of different size and load same into a tube therefor. The apparatus also has means for stacking a plurality of tubes for loading a bottom one of the stack, ejecting that one when loaded, and providing a subsequent tube from the stack for loading.

Abstract: A cutting device is incorporated in a packaging machine having at least one expansion cylinder consisting of upper and lower sections with a gap therebetween. The cutting device includes two rails located on opposite sides of the expansion cylinder and substantially parallel to each other. Two slide blocks are respectively and movably mounted on the rails for movement along the rails between first and second positions on opposite sides of the expansion cylinder. A single cutting blade is arranged between and carried by the slide blocks whereby when the slide blocks are moved along the rails between the first and second positions, the blade is driven to reciprocally pass through the gap between the upper and lower sections of the expansion cylinder.

Abstract: A sealing apparatus includes a frame structure including a base and an actuator support extending upward from the base, a container support including a container receiver, and a heater platen suspended from the actuator support above the container support. The heater platen is shiftable between a load/unload position wherein a container can be loaded into and unloaded from within the container receiver and an associated lid can be positioned over the container, and a sealing position wherein the heater platen presses the container and the lid on the container support. The sealing apparatus also includes an actuator that includes a support structure pivotally attached to the frame and supporting the heater platen, and an L-shaped handle having a first end, second end and a pivot point located between the first end and the second end.

Abstract: A method of wrapping a potted plant in a decorative cover wherein the cover is a flattened sleeve. Upon opening of the sleeve, the sleeve has a bottom which may be closed, and the sleeve is sized to fit a pot. The potted plant is disposed within the inner retaining space of the open sleeve, and the pot is positioned on the bottom of the sleeve such that the sleeve covers at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the pot to provide the decorative cover for the potted plant.