Abstract: The present invention enables secure, valid card payments in credit transactions to be performed, preventing fraudulent card use even in cases of loss or theft of a card or of information theft. During a transaction authorization process using a transaction terminal disposed in a credit transaction member store and connected with a host computer, user validation or credit administration is carried out by using a portable communication terminal to input to the host computer identity information which has been previously registered in the portable communication terminal and/or location information for the portable communication terminal.

Abstract: A system for delivering an ordered item to a location where no one is available to receive the item, including a key locked storage box provided at the location in addition to a key receptacle at the location having a lock openable with a settable code. When delivery of an item is ordered, a code is assigned, and the code is printed on a label affixed to the item, a peel off security strip overlaid onto the assigned code imprint. The delivery person removes the strip when at the location and enters the code into the key receptacle lock to obtain the key necessary to open the box and place the item therein. A bar code strip in the box provides location data when scanned to enable verification of a successful delivery.

Abstract: An Extended SmartCard file system is proposed which resides in one flat file within the ISO file system of a SmartCard. A second file containing user information like size of the file system, owner information, and key fields is used to configure the file system driver dynamically. However, this file may be omitted if the file system driver is statically initialized. The nested file system of the present invention has the advantage that files can be fully dynamically accessed and edited without affecting the underlying ISO file layout, i.e. the outer fixed structure of the outer file system. Further, data integrity and consistency are achieved by a transaction oriented commit concept. Additionally, all security mechanisms of the underlying SmartCards in terms of data protection are fully maintained and are enhanced in cases of power loss or unexpected card removal as two distinct directories are provided for data management.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bar code reading method and a bar code reader each suitably used for terminal equipment such as a POS terminal. The object is to perform an improved bar code reading rate and an improved effective bar code storage efficiency by detecting trash data so as not to store it in a memory. The bright and dark information on the bar width of a bar code 1 is detected to convert it into binary information. Plural pieces of the converted binary information are stored and then are sequentially outputted on a first-in, first-out basis. In the binary information storing operation, continuous binary information of which the bright and dark information of the bar code 1 does not come alternately is detected as error information. When error information is continuously detected, only the last data of the continuous binary information is stored but the remaining data are erased.

Abstract: A four-in-one memory card insertion port has an upper terminal seat and a lower terminal seat. The upper terminal seat has an MS memory card conductive terminal. The lower terminal seat is formed with an SMC conductive terminal, an SD conductive terminal, and an MMC conductive terminals. Thereby, a four-in-one memory card insertion port for MS, SMC, SD, and MMC memory card is formed. Thus interference is avoided and a variety of different memory cards are used in the port.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for preventing condensation from forming on the internal components of an optical scanner, allowing the scanner to be moved between hot and cold environments without sacrificing scanning performance or damaging the scanner. The optical scanner can be a laser scanner or a solid state imager. One method of preventing moisture from condensing on the inside of a scanner is to control the internal temperature of the scanner. This is accomplished by installing a thermostatically controlled heater module on the inside of the scanner and warming up the scanner's internal air when the air temperature falls below a predetermined point. Another method of preventing moisture from condensing on the inside of the scanner is to hermetically seal the scanning enclosure and fill with inert gas.

Abstract: Authenticating an object includes marking the object with a mark containing at least two markers wherein each marker fluoresces when illuminated with one of UV and IR, but does not fluoresce when illuminated with visible light. The marking may be in the form of a bar code containing a number or alphanumeric codes uniquely identifying the object to be marked with the particular mixture of markers used. A spectral analysis of the marking ink or the code is used to define spectral peaks for use as part of the authentication signature. The authentication signature may be defined using the identified peaks and logical conditions imposed upon them such as minimum threshold amplitude values and ratio values among peaks.

Abstract: An interface selection and configuration system for a computer peripheral in which configuration for the peripheral and/or the host interface is at least in part accomplished by the interface connector cable. In a preferred embodiment, the computer peripheral is equipped with one or more hardware interfaces. The interface connector cable has a first end connector for attaching to the computer peripheral. The first end connector of the interface connector cable is typically a multiple pin connector constructed and arranged to be properly physically and electrically connectable only to a specific computer peripheral or class of computer peripherals, the first end connector including at least one electrical connection between two pins for completing a circuit within the computer peripheral thereby enabling the computer peripheral.

Abstract: A non-retroreflective axial scan module has a light source for producing a light beam directed, a scan element disposed receptive of the light beam to provide a scanning light beam, a photodetector for receiving light from the scanning beam reflected by a dataform for producing a signal corresponding thereto and optics for restricting the field of view of the photodetector to the vicinity of a scan line formed by the scanning light beam on the dataform all supported in a housing having a volume of less than about one cubic inch.

Abstract: An image of a region is taken which includes a two-dimensional code. A two-dimensional code area is determined in the image. The two-dimensional code area corresponds to the two-dimensional code. Inspection lines are set which connect opposite sides in two pairs among four sides indicating boundaries of the two-dimensional code area in cases where the two-dimensional code is of a cell matrix type. Inspection lines are set which connect opposite sides in one pair among four sides indicating boundaries of the two-dimensional code area in cases where the two-dimensional code is of a bar-code stack type. Information is read from the two-dimensional code area on the basis of the inspection lines. Division points are set on the opposite sides in response to a ratio in length between sides adjacent to the opposite sides and a number of arrangements of cells in the two-dimensional code in cases where the two-dimensional code is of the cell matrix type.

Abstract: A mobile station (MS) that includes an interface card slot (SLOT) to which it is possible to connect either an MMC-card or a small SIM-card. To connect the small interface card a separate adapter the size of an MMC-card is used, or, in addition to the first contact pins for use of an MMC-card, second contact pins for use of a SIM-card are arranged to the interface card slot. The operating voltage of the interface card is selected to fit the currently used interface card. In some embodiments of the present invention at least partially shared contact pins, which have been multiplexed, are being used to connect MMC- and SIM-cards.

Abstract: A calibration cartridge (20) for an automated media library (60) comprises a cartridge case (30) having a calibration surface (35) and an electromagnetic transmissive channel (40). The electromagnetic transmissive channel transmits electromagnetic radiation incident upon the calibration surface at a radiation reception port (42) in a first position of the calibration cartridge so that the electromagnetic radiation travels interiorily through the calibration case and exits from the calibration cartridge at a radiation exit aperture (44) in a second position on the calibration surface. The calibration cartridge is usable in an automated information storage library which comprises plural cartridge-accommodating cells (64) and a drive (68).

Abstract: A separator card substrate material for use in high speed document processing machines is imprinted with an array of periodically laterally spaced magnetic strips across an area of the face of the substrate and furthermore a machine readable code array of light and dark blocks representing selected data is imprinted in at least a portion of the same space of the substrate as is occupied by the magnetic strips with the light and dark blocks spanning widthwise dimensions between the strips as well as lengthwise dimensions between the strips. The interleaving of the magnetic strips and the light and dark blocks enables the separator card to be encoded with relatively large fields of optical data enabling the use of low resolution sensors for detecting the optical data used to uniquely identify each separator card without interfering with the function of the magnetic strips.

Abstract: A method of playing a computer game and the game itself, using a computer and a plurality of collectible trading cards that each has a unique code that is hidden under a removable coating. The game may be played by removing the coating from one of the trading cards and inputting the unique code on that card into a computer program or web site. The unique code may be linked with an associated computer output such as a web page within the web site. Inputting of the unique code renders the unique code inoperable for subsequent use by the computer program.

Abstract: An integrated circuit chip, useful as an electronic thermostat, comprises a temperature sensor for providing a signal corresponding to ambient temperature. A digital counter contains a value which, after digital-to-analog conversion by a DAC, corresponds to a desired trip temperature. A comparator has an output which changes state when the magnitude of the sensor signal exceeds the output of the DAC. The value in the counter is set by maintaining the sensor at a desired trip temperature and incrementing the counter until the comparator changes state.

Abstract: The object of the present Invention is to provide an expansion valve including a pressure sensor which enables reduction of parts cost. A pressure sensor is screwed into an opening of a body block, which communicates with a space accommodating a valve element and a compression coil spring for urging the valve element toward a valve seat. A set value for an expansion valve is adjusted by changing the amount of screwing of the pressure sensor to thereby change the load of the compression coil spring. An adjusting screw for adjusting the set value for the expansion valve can be dispensed with, which makes it possible to reduce the manufacturing costs of the expansion valve.

Abstract: A heating system is provided for heating fresh water on boats, marine vessels and the like. The boat's water supply is connected to a hot water tank, which in turn is in fluid communication with a heat exchanger. The coolant line for a boat engine passes through the heat exchanger, through the hot water tank and back to the engine. Heat from the engine is transferred from the coolant line to the water in the hot water tank at a rate that varies with engine operation. The heat exchanger allows additional heat transfer to the water as the coolant and water pass through the heat exchanger. A sensor regulates circulation of water through the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger may be retrofitted externally of an existing hot water tank by connecting the heat exchanger to existing water lines for the hot water tank and to an existing engine coolant line to effect heat transfer from the engine coolant line.

Abstract: A spraying method of a dispense system for preventing residue, wherein a precise amount of stream fluid is supplied from a fluid supply through a main tube to a nozzle, and the precise amount of stream fluid is sprayed onto a surface of a wafer. A sub-tube system, which comprises a bypass valve and a pin hole is utilized to refill the fluid to a void. A metering valve is used as a suck-back system to retrieve the remaining fluid in the main tube and prevent residue from occurring.

Abstract: A spray gun head includes, a diverter bushing, a nozzle body, an air cap and a locking ring. First and second vent holes are separately provided in the spray gun head. The diverter bushing is provided with a plurality of jets disposed in relation to the first vent hole to form a first air port. The nozzle body is provided with an airflow guide ring having airflow guide holes disposed relative to the inner wall of the diverter bushing to form a second air port. A plurality of first jets and second jets are provided in the air cap which guards the nozzle body. Air from the first and the second vent holes flows-through the first air port, the second air port air, the diverter bushing and the airflow holes in the airflow guide ring to be respectively ejected from both air jets.

Abstract: A sink water spraying apparatus includes a sprayer housing having a channel extending between inlet and outlet ports. The housing includes a trigger for actuating water flow. A pulsation selector disc is rotatably coupled to the housing and defines a hole that may be selectively aligned with the outlet port. A pulsation assembly is connected to a shaft extending from the housing and may receive a water stream flowing through the pulsation selector disc. The pulsation assembly includes a rotor for repetitively disrupting this flow so as to make it pulsate. A pattern selector disc is releasably coupled to the pulsation selector disc and defines differently configured nozzle ports. The pattern selector disc may be rotated such that a water stream received from the pulsation assembly may be conveyed in a desired pattern. An auxiliary cleaning attachment may be releasably coupled to the pattern selector disc.

Abstract: A fuel injector for delivering fuel to a combustion space comprises a valve needle which is movable within a bore provided in a nozzle body and which is engageable with a seating to control the supply of fuel from the bore. The injector further comprises a return flow passage for permitting fuel to escape from the bore to a low pressure drain upon initial movement of the valve needle away from its seating. The injector may include a cover member which defines, together with the nozzle body, a part of the return passage for fuel through which fuel flows, in use, to reduce the temperature of the nozzle body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a nozzle intended for the application of fluid materials, which at a front end thereof has an aperture opening into a slot. A central portion of the slot is functioning to release most of the material straight ahead. Furthermore, the slot has side portions functioning to release material in sideway directions. In a preferred embodiment, the front end is shaped like a truncated cone with a flat top, in which the slot is formed. The slot is thus divided into three straight portions with the central portion in the flat top and the angle of the side portions defined by the top angle of said cone. Under certain conditions, the jets of material released from the various portions are held together by a surface tension. As most of the material is released from the central portion, the jets from the angled side portions will be deflected towards the center jet, resulting in a jet with a relatively even width, and a resultant coating being thickest in the middle.

Abstract: A method of improving the spraying of liquid droplets from a spray device onto a surface which method comprises imparting a unipolar charge to the said liquid droplets by double layer charging during the spraying of the liquid droplets from the spray device, the unipolar charge being at a level such that the said droplets have a charge to mass ratio of at least ±1×10−4 C/kg, whereby the charged droplets of the liquid are mutually repelled thereby increasing the spread of the droplets from a central spray line extending from the head of the spray device and avoiding coalescence of the droplets, thus providing a more even coverage of the surface which is to be sprayed. In particular, the method enables liquid droplets to be sprayed onto a surface which is obscured by all object located between the surface and the spray device.

Abstract: A drag knob of a spinning reel includes a main knob unit, a presser unit and a retaining member. The knob unit is a die-cast member having a concave portion provided on the rear side, and interlocking grooves that are formed on the front side at a certain spacing in circumferential direction, and extend along an axis direction through an outer periphery of the concave portion up to a groove end. A portion of the presser unit is accommodated in the concave portion. The retaining member has corner portions that interlock with the interlocking grooves, and contact portions that are formed in one piece with the corner portions and contact the presser unit from the rear side. The retaining member has enough elasticity to be mounted in the concave portion to retain the presser unit. The present invention reduces the manufacturing costs of a fishing reel.

Abstract: In a recording and/or reproducing device (1) for a cassette (2) having a coupling element (6) connected to its magnetic tape (5) a pull-out element (24) has been provided, which is constructed to be coupled to the coupling element (6) and to pull the coupling element (6) out of the cassette (2) in a pull-out direction (10), and which is retained with the aid of a retaining member (35), which is movable between a standby position and an operating position, namely in a nominal position with respect to the retaining member (35) when it is not coupled to the coupling element (6), and after it has been coupled to the coupling element (6) is movable to a take-up reel (19) with the aid of a pull-out tape (60) and, when the retaining member (35) is situated in the area of its operating position, is retained so as to be movable with respect to the retaining member (35) against the pull-out direction (10) and which, when the retaining member (35) is moved from its operating position into its standby position, is movabl

Abstract: Disclosed is a tape cassette which is loaded in a tape drive apparatus by a manner of inserting the tape cassette in a cassette holder and then moving the cassette holder relative to a main chassis of the tape drive apparatus. The tape cassette includes a mouth portion provided in a front portion of a cassette shell in such a manner as to be opened forward, upward, and downward. Part of a magnetic tape (tape-like recording medium) is positioned to cross the front end of the mouth portion. The tape cassette also includes a front lid for covering the front side of the magnetic tape. The front lid is opened when the tape cassette is inserted in the cassette holder. This tape cassette is characterized by including two side butting portions and two upper butting portions which are brought into contact with two side receiving portions and two upper receiving portions of the cassette holder when the tape cassette is inserted in the cassette holder.

Abstract: The invention relates to a rotation tensioner for a safety belt, especially for motor vehicles. Said ration tensioner comprises a belt retractor whose belt retraction pin is rotated in the belt retracting direction by means of an allocated drive when the rotation tensioner coupled to said pin is actuated. Said drive consists of a drive wheel with an external toothing for the belt retraction pin and of a channel that extends across at least part of the periphery of the drive wheel. Inertia elements are passed through said channel that are accelerated inside said channel and that engage with the external toothing of the drive wheel when the system is triggered. The invention provides a shaped element (16) that consists of an inertia body (18) and a leading finder element (17, 28) that allows a synchronous, shape-congruent insertion of the inertia elements (18) into the outer toothing (13) of the drive wheel (11).

Abstract: A ribbon cable storage spool, tray and method of use. The spool comprising a center post and a plurality of radially extending top and bottom fins. The spool may also comprise a guide wall, a ribbon retention tab, a channel wall defining a channel and a ledge, and an oblong shape. The tray comprising a bottom plate and a sidewall which act together to define a spool chamber for receiving the spool. The bottom plate may also define holes such that the bottom fins of the spool are coplanar with the bottom plate when the spool is placed in the tray. The bottom plate may also include a column to be received by the channel of the spool. The channel and column may include a tongue and groove arrangement for preventing rotation of the spool relative to the tray. The column may also include a flexible clip for retaining the spool in the tray.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming wire bundles from a plurality of wire or cable is provided. A plurality of wires are withdrawn from a rack configured to easily receive and retain a wire spool axial. A driven pulling spool, preferably configured for quick-release coupling to a front loader or other vehicle, is used to pull a cable or bundle along a desired path. Pulling is facilitated by rollers, preferably configured to reduce pulling tension, intermediate endless track tuggers and/or sheaves configured to facilitate coupling to trays or scaffolding. Jacks are described for positioning or holding cables. Preferably rollers or sheaves may be positioned to guide cables along a path above the cable tray or other ultimate position.

Abstract: A tape-like medium running device realizes a reduction of a fast-forwarding time and a rewinding time by running a tape-like medium at a high speed up to a marginal point near a leading end or a tail end of the tape-like medium during a fast-forward and a rewind operation. For this purpose, rotating speed of a motor is gradually slowed down with the lapse of time from a high target speed and then settled at a low target speed, if an irregularity detection unit determines there is an irregular condition based on an output of a wound-up diameter detector. The invention can thus allows a setting of a wound-up diameter comparison reference value at the marginal point near the leading end when rewinding (or, the marginal point near the tail end when fast-forwarding), and minimize a time during which the motor rotates at the low target speed.

Abstract: A reel for coiled strip stock includes a coil support adapted to carry a coil of strip stock for rotation about a horizontal axis, and a pair of pivotally mounted stock guides that establish a variable-sized loop of stock substantially encircling the coil support between payoff from the coil and exiting to the using station.

Abstract: The present invention discloses methods and apparatus for winding wire onto the slots on armature lamination stacks. More specifically, the present invention is directed to methods and apparatus for increasing time the winding components are operating on an armature winding system. The invention includes a loading/unloading unit and a holding unit that may be operated independently under most circumstances. The independent operation enables the winders of the present invention to operate at increased duty cycles, thereby increasing throughput. Additionally, the apparatus of the present invention increases the likelihood that armatures remain properly indexed during the loading transfer process to further increase system efficiency.

Abstract: A coil assembly includes a spool and a connector keyed thereto. To wind a coil on the spool, the spool is moved linearly with respect to the connector until the connector does not interfere with the winding bay on the spool. Thereafter, a wire is wound around the spool within the winding bay to form the coil. Once the coil is complete, the spool can be moved linearly with respect to the connector until a keying structure on the spool engages an opposing keying structure on the connector and a locking mechanism on the spool engages a corresponding locking mechanism on the connector. Thus, a complete coil assembly can be manufactured in one operation with minimal manufacturing steps.

Abstract: A pitot tube cover that is arranged with a cavity to encompass the pitot tube, a central vertical split separates the cover and allows it to separate from the pitot tube. A wind surfaces channel the wind into the split, and a spring holds the cover onto the pitot tube. Once the aircraft reaches a predetermined speed, the wind is forced by the front angled wind surfaces into the split, thus separating the cover from the pitot tube and exposing the tube's opening to the oncoming wind pressure.

Abstract: A flyback booster (200) comprising an aircraft (203) housing a launch vehicle stage as a removable rocket propulsion module (502) and several space launch vehicles using variations of the flyback booster (200) are disclosed. This flyback booster (200) functions as the first stage of a multistage space launch vehicle. The stage used in the flyback booster (200) and the upper stages of the multistage space launch vehicle (213) are selected to optimize the launch cost for a specific payload.

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for transferring heat through the thickness of aircraft structure formed from composite laminates. Z-pins having a high thermal conductivity are inserted through the composite laminate and placed in thermal communications with a heat source at the end of each z-pin on one side of the structure. The ends of the z-pins on the opposite side of the structure as the heat source are in thermal communication with a heat sink. Each of the heat source and heat sink may be a fluid, which carries heat to or away from the z-pins by convective currents, or a component that is mechanically connected to the z-pins, which conduct heat from or to the component.

Abstract: A forebody 10 for an aeronautical vehicle 12 is provided. The forebody 10 includes an exterior wall 14 having a first half 16 and a second half 18. The first half 16 has a first porous section 20 and the second half 18 has a second porous section 24. The first half 16 and the second half 18 also have a first exterior side 22 experiencing a first fluidic pressure and a second exterior side 26 experiencing a second fluidic pressure, respectively. A hollow inner cavity 28 is fluidically coupled to the first exterior side 22 and the second exterior side 26 and allows fluid passage between the first exterior side 22 and the second exterior side 26 through the first porous section 20, the inner cavity 28, and the second porous section 24. The exterior wall 14 equalizes the first fluidic pressure with the second fluidic pressure. Additional forebodies and methods for performing the same are also provided.

Abstract: Conventional methods for mounting electro-optical components, such as photodiodes, to the surface of a printed circuit board include the use of labor intensive brackets and fastening devices, such as screws or adhesive. The present invention provides a relatively small and simple component holder, which is easily attached to a circuit board by inserting the lower portion of the holder through a “key-hole” slot in the circuit board and rotating the upper portion, thereby squeezing the circuit board between the upper and lower portions. The component holder according to the present invention enables the electro-optical component to be mounted flush with the upper surface of the circuit board. Moreover, flexible locking elements enable the component holder to be mounted onto circuit boards of various thicknesses.

Abstract: A buoyant clamp assembly and method for clamping an elongate member to a support member. The buoyant clamp assembly includes a flexible strap having first and second ends. Affixed to the exterior of the flexible strap are wear blocks. A highly frictional layer is attached to the interior of the flexible strap to increase friction between the clamping assembly and the elongate or support member. The flexible strap extends substantially around the elongate and support members. The first and second ends are adapted to be coupled to each other via a loop member. The clamp assembly also includes a tensioner assembly having first and second tensioner bars spaced parallel to one another. Capture bolts affixed to the tensioner assembly prevent the first and second tensioner bars from separating. Each of the first and second tensioner bars includes a bullnose face and the bullnose faces are in opposing relationship to one another.

Abstract: A one-piece straight-entry display hook device is provided which is highly resistant to dislodgment resulting from upward pressure adjacent to the supporting panel, yet accommodates free upward pivoting movement in response to upward pressure on the hook applied at outer portions thereof. The display hook has a specially configured back plate with upwardly tilted mounting lugs of inverted L-shaped configuration along upper edge portions thereof, and downwardly angled retaining elements projecting from lower edge portions thereof. When the back plate is mounted on an apertured panel, upward movement of the back plate, which might otherwise dislodge the display hook and cause it and its contents to fall off the wall, is prevented by engagement of the retaining elements with a pair of openings in the panel board.

Abstract: A compound mounting bracket for attaching a solenoid to a structure is disclosed. The compound mounting bracket comprises a first and second plate, each having a first edge and a second distal edge. The second distal edge of the first plate is connectable to a first mounting point on a solenoid. The second distal edge of the second plate extends in a direction generally transverse to the first edge of the second plate, thereby defining a dihedral angle between the first plate and the second plate. The second plate is connectable at its second distal edge to a second mounting point on the solenoid.

Abstract: A duct hanger used to connect ducts to supports includes a main shaft with a hook disposed at one end of the shaft and a loop connected to the other end of the shaft. The loop allows the hangers to be disposed back-to-back. The loop also allows the hanger to pivot with respect to the support.

Abstract: A toiletry holder includes a support bracket mountable to a support, such as a wall or other fixed structure. A tether is fixed to the support bracket, for example, at a position therealong spaced apart from the support. A fastener is carried on the tether in a position thereof distant from its point of attachment with the support bracket. The fastener is adapted for removable securement of an article of toiletry, for example, soap, toothpaste, etc., such that the toiletry article may be held in tethered securement to the support bracket and maintained in a position in which it can be isolated from contact with surrounding environmental surfaces. Optionally, the tether is resiliently extensible, permitting the article of toiletry to be moved to a distance farther from the support bracket than a position occupied thereby when the article of toiletry simply hangs from the support bracket by the tether.

Abstract: An improved two-level suspended lamp frame including a mount fastened onto a ceiling, a junction box extending below the mount, and a pendant fixture inserted at the sides of the mount and the junction box. The mount has insertion holes in which a coupling spring having two inward closured retentive ends is disposed at the interior face of each insertion hole. The junction box has openings formed in its circumference for the fitting of mounting blocks and retaining elements are installed at the two sides of each mounting block. Each pair of retaining elements has secured to their hook nibs an elastic component which, under normal conditions, pulls the inward protruding ends towards the inside of sleeved holes. As such, the rectangular insertion pegs of the pendant fixture are aligned with and slipped into the insertion holes of the junction box and tightly anchored without requiring additional fastening screws and tools to thereby effectively facilitate ease of assembly and installation.

Abstract: A suspended note clip for magnetic attachment to vertical surfaces has opposing portions that are squeezable to open substantially planar faces that are otherwise biased together, in grasping fashion, by the bowed shape of the opposing portions. The clip is also usable without attachment to the vertical surface and in non-magnetic attachments to vertical surfaces.

Abstract: An adjustable support is useful to carpenters for installing cabinets and handrails in buildings. The adjustable support comprises a stand that defines a longitudinal axis. An adjuster is threaded into the stand. A carrier rests on the adjuster. The stand provides coarse adjustment, and the adjuster provides fine adjustment, of the carrier. In one embodiment, the carrier is a flat plate that supports a cabinet. A tray secured to the stand stores tools used to install the cabinet. In another embodiment, the carrier includes a cradle that is pivotable to match the angle of a handrail along a stairway wall. The cradle may be offset from the stand longitudinal axis. Alternately, the stand has a working edge that is spaced relative to the cradle such that placing the stand working edge against the stairway automatically positions the cradle at the proper spacing from the wall.

Abstract: A microphone stand assembly includes an automatically operated anti-rotation arrangement for preventing inadvertent disengagement of the shaft from the base.

Abstract: A valve where the valve membrane is made from silicone rubber. Preferably the valve is a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) thermopneumatic valve. Because of the advantageous physical properties of silicone rubber, the valve provides desirable performance with reasonable power consumption.

Abstract: This invention relates to a remote shut-off valve, and in particular to a valve for the remote shutting-off of a fluid such as a main water supply. The remote shut-off valve comprises a diaphragm valve and a pilot valve which are connected together by way of flexible tubes so that that pilot valve can be located in a desired location remote from the diaphragm valve. Part of the flow channels between the diaphragm valve and the pilot valve, and also the flow channel to the control chamber of the diaphragm valve are located within the body of the diaphragm valve. Quick-release connectors can be provided to connect the flexible tubes to the pilot valve and to the diaphragm valve.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a compact and modular gate valve comprising an elongated body which comprises first and second ends, a hole which extends longitudinally between the first and second ends, a first opening which communicates with the hole proximate the first end, a second opening which communicates with the hole proximate the second end, and a bore which extends transversely through the body and intersects the hole; a first seat which is mounted in a first intersection of the bore with the hole and a second seat which is mounted in a second intersection of the bore with the hole, the first and second seats each including a passageway that aligns with the bore; a valve stem which is slidably positioned in the hole and which includes first and second piston portions that are separated by a gate portion, the stem being movable between an open position in which a hole in the gate portion is aligned with the passageways and a closed position in which the hole is offset from the passageways; and