Abstract: Apparatus (1) is provided for passing a fluid through a solid material (5). Apparatus (1) has an enclosure (2) with an upper part (7) in which the solid material is received. The solid material flows downward through one or more passages (13) which extend between end walls (11 and 12). Opposing sides of the or each passage are formed by side plates (14, 15) of fluid inlet and outled ducts (9, 10). The side plates are perforated so that fluid can pass transversely through the solid material flowing through each passage. The inlet and outlet ducts (9 and 10) have inlet parts (16 and 17) respectively, outside the enclosure. Solid material arrives at a lower part (8) of the enclosure and then leaves the enclosure. The apparatus (1) can be made compactly for the degree of fluid/solid contact provided. It is applicable to many applications such as drying of solids, heat exchange between fluids and solids, dust removal from gases, chemical reactors and humidifying/dehumidifying of fluids.

Abstract: Conventional spray-drying methods are improved by incorporation of a pressure nozzle and a diffuser plate to improve the flow of drying gas and a drying chamber extension to increase drying time, such improvements leading to the formation of homogeneous solid dispersions of drugs in concentration-enhancing polymers.

Abstract: A combination tumble and cabinet dryer appliance includes a housing with a tumble dryer and a cabinet dryer therein. The tumble dryer and cabinet dryer are operable independently of one another. Separate sources of hot air are provided to each of the tumble and cabinet dryers. The cabinet dryer extends over and along one side of the tumble dryer. A portion of the cabinet dryer extends substantially along the height of the housing so as to receive long hanging clothes, such as a dress. Removable shelves are provided in the cabinet dryer for drying sweaters and the like.

Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus for surface treatment which, when employed in process steps of manufacturing semiconductor devices, can result in the final products having enhanced reliability. According to the surface processing method, an obeject to be processed W is introduced in a processing vessel 10, which is then supplied with ClF3 gas serving as cleaning gas from a supply unit 26. The ClF3 gas is bound to the surface of the object to be processed W, and although the supply of the gas to the processing vessel is interrupted, the ClF3 gas bound to the surface of the object to be processed W serves to clean the surface of the object to be processed. Next, reducing gas is introduced into the processing vessel W to remove chlorine from the object to be processed W, the chlorine being derived from the ClF3 gas. After that, the introduction of the reducing gas is interrupted, and the cleaned object to be processed W is exported from the processing vessel 10.

Abstract: Provided is a shoe having a bottom surface that is adjacent to the ground in normal use and that has at least some indentations, with lower extending portions between the indentations. A sole forms at least a portion of the bottom surface, and an upper portion extends above the sole. A plurality of small particles is bonded to at least some of the lower extending portions, but at least a portion of the indentations is not coated with such small particles.

Abstract: Granules bonded to a sandal sole provide a high traction surface, even when wet. The granules are bonded to an upper surface of the sandal sole. The granules can be embedded in the sole or bonded to the sole with adhesive. The granules can be made of crushed rock or other hard materials. The granules can be present in selected weight-bearing areas of the sandal, such as the area supporting the foot ball, toes or heel. The granules may be present only in an area under the foot ball. The present sandal sole prevents the foot from slipping against the sandal sole, and thereby prevents damage to the sandal and prevents injury from falling.

Abstract: Disclosed is an air cushion shoe with various kinds of air chambers capable of absorbing the shocks generated by the application of the weight of a wearer in a vertical direction and distributing the absorbed shocks in a horizontal direction. The air cushion shoe of this invention has an upper and a sole, including a group of air chambers protrudedly exposed on the bottom surface of the sole of the shoe, the group of air chambers having a single air chamber that is located on the heel portion of the sole and divided into a first single air chamber and a second single air chamber by means of a partition and having plural kinds of communicating air chambers that are located on the whole portion except the heel portion of the sole, wherein the single air chamber is separated from the plural kinds of communicating air chambers.

Abstract: A user-customizable insole for insertion into foot wear in place of a conventional removable insole. The insole includes a cushioning upper insole and a semi-rigid yet resiliently flexible base insole used with insole adjustment devices. The upper insole is made of a resilient cushioning material such as foam. The base insole is made from relatively thin plastic with upwardly formed arch supports defining corresponding elevation curves between the base insole and a foot bed or inside bottom of the footwear to permit downward flexing of the arch supports. The arch supports are of a predetermined flexibility by controlling the material thickness and/or adding perforations therethrough. An upwardly formed perimeter wall extends around a heel portion forwardly along respective medial and lateral sides of the base insole tapering away at about a forefoot portion of the base insole defining a heel cup.

Abstract: Provided is a shoe having a bottom surface that is adjacent to the ground in normal use. A sole, which is sufficiently durable and/or strong for long-term outdoor use, forms at least a portion of the bottom surface, and an upper portion extends above the sole. A plurality of small material particles are bonded to at least a portion of the bottom surface of the shoe.

Abstract: An ice spike comprises a fixing clamp attached to the fixed rear part of the armature and having a cross-bar designed to latch directly onto a rear rim of the sole. The front part of the armature comprises stop means to wedge the front of the shoe in the longitudinal direction. A strapping system is provided with at least one safety lanyard arranged to press the shoe against the bearing surface. After lengthwise adjustment of the strip has been performed according to the shoe size, fitting the shoe does not require any variation of distance between the rear fixing clamp and the front stop means.

Abstract: The invention is an article of footwear having a sole comprised of one or more support elements formed of a resilient, compressible material. The support elements are designed such that the positions of one or more bands that encircle the exterior surface of the support elements may be altered such that the deflection characteristics of the support elements are changed. In order to facilitate the repositioning of the bands, the support element includes an access indentation defined by the exterior surface or flanges that are secured to each band.

Abstract: The invention provides an orthotic insert for an article of footwear, which includes a cupped heel portion, the cupped heel portion having a concave upper bearing surface that extends above a most posterior cephalad portion of a calcaneous; and a heat-malleable mid-foot portion continuously coupled to the heel portion, the mid-foot portion having a medial longitudinal arch and a heat-deformable upper bearing surface. The invention also provides a method of treating a podiatric condition with an orthotic insert and a method of manufacturing a heat-malleable orthotic insert for an article of footwear.

Abstract: A shoe construction including a removable vamp. In an implementation, the shoe includes an outsole, an upper attached to the outsole, the upper including an elastic material that spans a throat area, a removable vamp, a throat fastening means, and a vamp fastening means. The throat fastening means and the vamp fastening means provide a two-point connection that stabilizes the removable vamp so that it remains in the correct position during wear of the shoe. A customizing kit may be provided to permit a consumer to customize the vamp, for example, by applying a heat transfer image to the vamp.

Abstract: A structure associated with a motorcycle boot which is designed to restrict, in the event of accidental falls followed by contact at high speed with the ground, the movements of a leg-piece of the boot with respect to the axis of a heel-piece, comprises a first hinge, which is angularly movable in a substantially unlimited manner and axially movable between two stopping means, and second hinge which is movable only angularly in a restricted manner. Alternatively, the first and second hinges can be formed of elastomeric materials.

Abstract: The present invention relates to footwear which has improved shock absorbency due to a cushioning and has superior support due to a rigid or semi-rigid orthotic plate. The orthotic plate may be removably or securably attachable to the upper, and the padding may be removably or securably attachable to the orthotic plate. The cushioning may further may have supporting blades incorporated therein to counteract any undesired deforming characteristics of the cushioning and/or a bottom plate may be securably or removably attachable to the bottom side of the cushioning. The bottom plate may also have gripping elements which are permanently or removably attachable to the plate to compensate for wear, or for a change in activities. Further, the upper may be removably and attachable and interchanged with other types of removably attachable uppers.

Abstract: The invention provides an orthopedic insole for a diabetic shoe, as well as a method of manufacturing an orthopedic insole for a diabetic shoe. The orthopedic insole includes a cupped heel portion, the cupped heel portion having a concave upper bearing surface that extends above a most posterior cephalad portion of a calcaneous; a mid-foot portion continuously coupled to the cupped heel portion, the mid-foot portion having a medial longitudinal arch and a curvilinear upper bearing surface; and a heat-malleable forefoot portion coupled to the mid-foot portion, the forefoot portion having a heat-deformable upper bearing surface.

Abstract: A snow removal machine including a housing with a forward opening through which snow enters the snow removal machine. At least one rotatable member is positioned and rotatably secured within the housing for engaging and eliminating the snow from within said housing. The snow removal machine also includes a surface treatment application system with a treatment material dispensing system connected to the housing for dispensing a liquid or solid deicer and/or anti-icing treatment material over an area from which snow has been removed.

Abstract: An apparatus for suction and discharge of material comprises a container (9) with a suction opening (19) for letting in a sucked-up air/material mixture and a discharge opening (14) for discharging material. The container (9) is rotatable and has inner conveying means (18) which upon rotation of the container (9) are adapted to convey the material to the discharge opening (14).

Abstract: The lifting frame with Z-kinematics of a wheel loader comprises an accessory arm with a lifting cylinder coupled to the vehicle frame or to the truck front-end and a rocker-type reversing lever coupled to the accessory arm, to the ends of which reversing lever the tipping cylinder and the connecting link are coupled for the swivelling of the attachment. Attachments, e.g. a bucket or a log loader, are mountable on the lifting frame. In order to be able, in a raised position of the lifting frame, to swivel the attachment with the necessary large moment from a position tipped downwards into a position tipped upwards, without any reinforcement of the tipping cylinder, there is coupled with the lifting frame, in the direction of the attachment in front of the articulated joint connecting the tipping cylinder to the vehicle frame, at least one hydraulic cylinder, whereof the piston rod engages in an articulated manner with the swivel axle connecting the reversing lever with the tipping cylinder.

Abstract: A sheet having indicia to indicate a one month time period and then with each month divided into days. Each sheet is provided with a slot that provides entry to a receptacle that is attached to the back of the sheet, thus keeping a portion of an inserted reminder card for an appointment or task remains easily visible for a user. General use appointment and task cards permit the user to tailor the time and date management apparatus to particular needs. Reminder cards could be color coded to indicate the type of task or appointment. Reminder cards can also be dimensioned to substantially the same size as a standard business card or appointment card such as used by a doctor or dentist.

Abstract: The present invention refers to an information-displaying unit (1) which has a body of a determined geometrical shape internally with an illumination system having in the narrower portions thereof (12) an arrangement for installation of water atomizing nozzles of a body climatization system, and a pedestal (14) to house the components of said system. The right side portion (10) and the left side portion (10′) of the information-displaying unit (1) have an arrangement for installation of an information-displaying device (11).

Abstract: A combined animal information tag and system comprising a relatively permanent primary information tag attached directly to the animal to provide primary information about the animal and a removable or replaceable supplemental identification or informational tag attached to the primary information tag to provide additional information about the animal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment plate (2) of a flexible, bendable material adapted for attachment to fabric, cables, flower stalks or similar items. The attachment plate has two tongue shaped portions including a first tongue (4, 20) and a second tongue (6, 21) formed by a perforation in the plate so that a foot portion (8, 9) of each tongue shaped portion is held to the plate while each respective tongue shaped portion, extending from the foot portion to an outer free end (10, 11; 22, 23) of each tongue shaped portion, respectively, is outwardly bendable from the plate and the outer free ends of the tongue shaped portions are immediately adjacent to one another at a slit (12, 24) formed by a perforation. The outer free end (10, 11; 22, 23) of each respective tongue shaped portion (4, 20; 6, 21) has at least one narrowing portion (14, 14′; 15, 15′) so that each respective narrowing portion is adapted to at least partially overlap the other narrowing portion at the slits (12, 24).

Abstract: A removable wire label. The wire label has a labeling tab attached to an elongated flexible prong. The flexible prong is wrapped around a cable and passed through a locking slot in the labeling tab. Teeth on the flexible prong engage the locking slot and prevent the flexible prong from disengaging. The locking slot has a special elliptical slot which requires the flexible prong to be rotated in order to pass through. The flexible prong's natural tendency to straighten then locks it in place. The device is easily removable, in that a user need only rotate the portion of the flexible prong sticking through the locking slot in order to release it and unwrap the flexible prong from the cable. The labeling tab allows the user to print hand-written messages on the device. As an alternative, pre-printed messages can be provided.

Abstract: A sign display apparatus. The apparatus includes a moveable display face for displaying information; a stationary display body having a source of illumination for the display face when the display face is in a position over the display body; and a drive mechanism coupled to the display face for moving the display face relative to the stationary display body and its source of illumination. Also provided are an apparatus and a retrofit kit for lowering the display face to change a message displayed on the display face and for raising the display face to a visible position. Included are housing assemblies affixed in a spaced relationship, each housing assembly having a guide track such that, in combination, the housing assemblies provide a pair of substantially parallel guide tracks into which is disposed the display face, thereby defining a plane of travel as the display face is lowered and raised.

Abstract: The invention provides a label structure for pistol type pneumatic tool, which is provided on the end surface of driving portion corresponding to the other end of quick coupler of pistol type pneumatic tool. In addition, expressed by text, numbers, or illustrations, the label structure can submit important information clearly and apparently. Moreover, through the advantages that the label structure can be firmly provided on the smooth end surface of driving portion and that the end surface is at the same side as the backend of grip portion, the label structure can be apparent to a user. Therefore, when the user is gripping the pistol type pneumatic tool and doing a mechanical operation, the user is able to read information showed on the label structure easily and clearly at the same time.

Abstract: A cylindrically curved self supporting changeable indicia substrate retaining display for securing and displaying a variety of printed indicia substrates; more particularly, as a changeable golf sponsor display; comprising an indicia substrate retaining appendage formed by a completely through cut, and tear preventive, indicia substrate retaining slit in a single flexible display substrate. Said indicia substrate is secured by surrounding and retained curvature stresses when subjected to directionally predetermined compression; with all tensions retained by a ground penetrating fixed width wire rod leg set that is vertically invertable and or retractable for use as an indoor self supporting display.

Abstract: A range finder for hunting applications. In one embodiment, a method of using a range finder is disclosed. The method comprises coupling the range finder to a weapon having an associated scope. Positioning at least part of a display of the range finder in front of a select portion of the associated scope. Activating the range finder. Determining the distance to a target and displaying the distance to the target through optics of the scope.

Abstract: A robotic frame having a multiplicity of movable frame portions supporting a flexible decoy cover or figurine and thereby providing a turkey decoy having a plurality of movable parts and mounted on a self propelled carriage that moves the decoy from one location to another.

Abstract: The instant invention is a fishing rig storage device that maintains multiple hooks in a secure storage position until use. The storage device consists of a containment vessel that houses six individual storage boxes during shipping. Each storage box has a cavity housing a foam insert and a hinged top allowing individual sealing of the six boxes. The individual storage boxes are used to store the unused hook. In an alternative embodiment the containment vessel can also be used to hold the storage box and hook in instances of high rod movements. The containment vessel includes aperture that allows the containment vessel and storage housings to remove any pressure from the fishing line during storage.

Abstract: A water-in-fuel emulsion composition containing a Fischer-Tropsch derived fuel and water, and its use in a compression ignition engine is provided. Emissions, for example of NOx, black smoke and/or particulate matter, are lower as compared to conventional fuels but without lengthening the ignition delay and reducing the cetane number. This is achieved without the need for, or at reduced levels of, ignition improving additives, and without engine modifications.

Abstract: A fuel composition comprising ethylene and alkyl esters, which may be used as a substitute for heating oil. In one embodiment, the mixture comprises 95% anhydrous ethanol and 5% B100 biodiesel. The mixture may further contain a lubricity agent.

Abstract: A self-coherent particulate magnetic mulch to protect selected ground areas from erosion by wind and/or rain and suppress the growth of undesired vegetation. The mulch is composed of magnetic particles having a rough diameter ranging from about 1 millimeter to about 25 millimeters, preferably from about 6 millimeters to about 13 millimeters. A protective ground cover is formed by applying the particulate magnetic mulch to the area to be protected at a suitable thickness.

Abstract: A liquid fiber mulching mat of a non-woody fiber and the production method thereof are disclosed. The production method of a liquid fiber mulching mat for a non-woody fiber includes steps of providing a biopulp of a non-woody fiber plant, a polymer and water, mixing the biopulp, the polymer and water well for preparing a liquid fiber pulp of the non-woody fiber plant, and applying the liquid fiber pulp of the non-woody fiber plant on a surface of an article for forming the liquid fiber mulching mat. Besides, a solid fiber mulching mat of a non-woody fiber is disclosed. The fiber mulching mat can be used in farms for protecting the weeds and used in mountainside land for preventing soil collapse. Also the fiber mulching mat can be used in arid area for decreasing water evaporation and preventing desertification and dust storm.

Abstract: This invention relates to a greenhouse climate control system for controlling the air exchange rate, temperature, and relative humidity (RH) level in a greenhouse. The system has at least one air processing unit that obtains return air from the greenhouse, processes the air, and returns the processed air as supply air back into the greenhouse. Return air is obtained from a location in the greenhouse above the canopy of a crop grown in the greenhouse, and supply air is returned to the greenhouse through perforated distribution tubes located in the vicinity of the crops.

Abstract: A method of treating a distressed tree includes the steps of: creating a mixture comprising a fertilizer and a growth hormone and applying the mixture to a root area of the distressed tree.

Abstract: The present invention provides a planting bed system and method for producing a plant in a lined container in a water-conserving bed environment.

Abstract: A method of growing commercially valuable crops to improve crop production is disclosed. The method comprises creating a hole in the earth, preparing the hole to influence the downward growth of the root system of a tree planted therein, planting a tree in a rooting medium in the hole, growing commercially valuable crops on the tree by providing water and nutrients to the tree, and harvesting commercially valuable crops from the tree.

Abstract: A method of controlling the environment of a field of plants. The method includes providing a movable cover and moving the cover the cover over the field of plants. The cover is left over the field of plants for an amount of time to control at least one parameter of the environment of the field of plants. The cover is then removed from at least a portion of the field of plants and at least some harvesting is done from at least some of the plants in the field of plants. The parameters include temperature, light and parasites.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ground material, obtained by grinding mineral materials. Said ground material is mixed with matured compost and/or sludge, obtained by the elutriation of mature compost and is matured under controlled conditions, in particular at a temperature limited to 60 ° C., for several weeks or several months. During said maturing process, the mineral material decomposes and biological activation occurs by means of the micro-organisms (fungi etc.) that have formed during the activation phase. The product thus obtained has an improved action for promoting plant growth. In a preferred embodiment, a plant seed cultivation is carried out on the activated substrate, in particular a thin layer cultivation. The green matter that has been formed, in addition to the substrate with interspersed roots, can e.g. be ground to produce an enriched product.

Abstract: Decorative grasses formed from a laminated material constructed of a layer of cloth and at least one layer of polymeric film wherein at least one surface of the laminate is provided with a decorative pattern or design. At least a portion of the layer of polymeric film is laminated to the layer of cloth, as well as methods for forming same, are disclosed herein.

Abstract: A plant packaging and covering system including a floral sleeve having a decorative pattern thereon. The sleeve may have a lower portion sized to cover a pot and an upper portion which can surround a plant disposed in the pot and which can be detached after the protective function of the upper portion is complete or which can be used to support the sleeve from a support device prior to use. The decorative pattern preferably has an arcuate upper boundary in the flattened condition which when opened, gives the sleeve the appearance of having an upper edge which is parallel to the upper rim of the pot disposed within the sleeve.

Abstract: A method of forming a decorative cover, a sleeve or a preformed pot cover for a floral grouping or flower pot from a sheet of material having a printed pattern thereon wherein the printed pattern contains shaded and highlighted areas which provide the printed pattern with a visual perception of depth and thus a three-dimensional appearance.

Abstract: An adhesive and material dispenser for dispensing single sheets of material from stacks of sheets of material or from rolls of material and applying an adhesive to the sheet. The adhesive is applied by contacting the adhesive portion of an adhesive transfer tape to the sheet. The sheet of material with the adhesive applied thereto can be used to wrap floral arrangements or flower pots or other articles. The dispenser may be combined with an automatic pot wrapping apparatus so the adhesive application and decorative pot wrapping sequence can be combined into one continuous operation.

Abstract: A portable fuel processing apparatus and enclosure including an enclosure having an outer wall that defines an interior space and provides a gas impermeable barrier. Attached to the enclosure is porting means for use in moving the enclosure from one location to another. A fuel reformer capable of providing sufficient hydrogen-rich reformate to a fuel cell stack for use in generating at least about 1 kW per hour is disposed within the enclosure. An optional gas detection system includes a sensor disposed within the enclosure to monitor the interior of the enclosure for presence of combustible gases. The portable apparatus can have a number of connectors for connecting the enclosure and the fuel processing systems to a source of a reformer fuel and water as well as a domestic drain. Preferred sources of fuel and water are common utility lines available in buildings.

Abstract: A hydrogen fuel supply system includes a hydrogen generator for generating hydrogen from an energy source at an outlet pressure. An outlet conduit feeds the hydrogen to a user. A controller controls the hydrogen generator to produce hydrogen at the outlet pressure. An input interface receives user demand data and activates the controller in accordance with the user demand data.

Abstract: A method for start-up and shut down of a fuel processor including an autothermal reformer employing a non-pyrophoric shift catalyst is disclosed. Also disclosed are a computer programmed to start-up or shut down a fuel processor including an autothermal reformer employing a non-pyrophoric shift catalyst or a program storage medium encoded with instruction that, when executed by a computer, start-up or shut down a fuel processor including an autothermal reformer employing a non-pyrophoric shift catalyst.

Abstract: Apparatus for rapidly heating one or more reactants for use in a fuel reformer. The apparatus includes a combustion section having an outer wall enclosing a combustion chamber and a catalyst disposed within the combustion chamber. The catalyst provides a non-diffused flow path through the combustion chamber for the combustion of gases and generation of heat and passage of such gases and heat from the combustion chamber. A heat recovery section is in fluid communication with the combustion section and has an outer wall defining a heat recovery chamber. At least one heat exchanging element is located within the heat recovery chamber having an inlet for receiving a fuel reforming reactant and an outlet for directing a heated reactant out of the heat recovery section. The combustion section is elevated relative to the heat recovery section such that heated combustion gases are displaced down into the heat recovery section.

Abstract: A sliding door apparatus includes a sliding door having a window and slidably disposed with respect to a body of a vehicle, a foreign object detecting unit that detects whether a foreign object exists in the open area, and a slide stopping unit that stops, upon the foreign object detecting unit detecting existence of the foreign object, sliding of the sliding door in the opening direction before the sliding door reaches a full-open position.

Abstract: A safety edge element made of flexible material includes a flat electric conductor, a rounded electric conductor as well as a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a base for the connection to a door or gate, a top with a seat to receive the flat electric conductor and two lateral sides to flexibly connect the base with the top. The base, top and lateral sides define a chamber. The second portion has a top and two lateral sides for the engagement with the top of the first portion and a seat arranged in the top of the second portion to receive the rounded electric conductor so that the rounded electric conductor is spaced from the flat electric conductor when the safety edge element is at rest and so that the rounded electric conductor is brought into contact with the flat conductor when the safety edge element experiences forces in orthogonal and inclined directions with respect to the base of the first portion.