Abstract: An article of footwear to improve walking ease and comfort, increase running speed, and improve jumping ability by augmenting the natural musculature and biomechanical characteristics of the lower leg, ankle, and foot portion of the human body. Walking, running, and jumping involves a complex series of joint and muscle movements. One of the critical components of this motion is the exertion of muscle force and/or tendon stress at the lower leg, ankle, and foot when releasing weight from the back foot during walking or running (the push off), or from one or both feet when jumping. The present invention augments this natural process by allowing storage of energy within energy storage and release means (35) as the angle ? produced by the intersection of the lower leg axis and foot axis is decreased (the forward portion of the foot moves closer to the shin) when a person moves forward during walking or running, or when a person jumps.

Abstract: The wrestling shoe according to the present invention comprises outer soles 1F and 1B separated forward and rearward on the side of a grounding surface of the shoe. The fore and rear outer soles 1F and 1B essentially protrude downward further than an outer skin 3, thereby to support the foot in a fore foot part and a rear foot part, respectively, when landing on the ground. The fore and rear outer soles 1F and 1B are made of an outer sole material of rubber and/or resin. The outer skin 3 is formed of a laminated body where an outer surface layer 30 and a cushion layer 31 are laminated. The outer surface layer 30 is exposed in a mid foot part M and made of substantially flexible sheet-like material, and the cushion layer 31 is laminated on the inner side of the outer surface layer 30 and made of substantially flexible rubber foam or resin foam.

Abstract: A shoe cleat with improved traction includes at least one dynamic traction element and at least one static traction element extending from a hub, where the traction elements are asymmetrically positioned about a central axis of the hub. The dynamic traction element is configured to deflect toward the shoe sole when the shoe to which the cleat is secured engages a ground surface, whereas the static traction element is configured to substantially resist flexing when the shoe engages the ground surface. The asymmetrical arrangement of traction elements on the hub facilitates the indexing of the shoe cleat with respect to the shoe sole to provide a variety of forms of enhanced traction for the shoe for different applications.

Abstract: A mechanized unit that is moved through a trench in the ground for the purpose of placing a length or lengths of a utility or utilities by a guide device on the bottom of the trench, and then encasing the placed utility or utilities. The unit has at least one plow to sweep the material excavated from the ground to form the trench back into the trench onto a screening member mounted to the unit. The screening unit has spaced screens one above another with progressively smaller openings from top to bottom and the screening member is vibrated to deposit onto the one or more utilities layers of the excavated material having particles of progressively larger size from the bottom to the top of the trench to protect the utility or utilities from physical damage caused by larger excavated particles.

Abstract: The Sticky Calendar is a wall calendar in which an adhesive is used for holding the calendar on the wall instead of many traditionally used holding devices such as pushpins, thumbtacks, or nails. Additionally, the Sticky Calendar features an additional adhesive which runs along the bottom of each month's calendar page to hold the previous month's calendar pages up to reveal the new month's page with a removable strip covering the adhesive.

Abstract: This invention relates to a folded card that comprises a central portion and a pair of side flaps connected to either side of the central portion where the side flaps are folded over the central portion so that only a section of the central portion is covered. This allows an image or illustration to be printed onto the central portion so that not all of the image is visible when the card is folded.

Abstract: An article of manufacture is disclosed. The article includes a face portion wherein the face portion includes address information, a housing portion and a plexiglass portion in between the face portion and the housing portion for providing an optimal contrast for displaying the address information.

Abstract: A sign comprising at least one support member and a body portion attached to the support member. The sign includes at least one reflective layer secured to the body portion. The sign includes at least one optically transmissive layer secured to the reflective layer such that the reflective layer is positioned between the optically transmissive layer and the body portion. The optically transmissive layer defines an interior portion, a border encompassing the interior portion, and at least one message positioned at least partially within the interior portion. The interior portion and the border comprise contrasting colors. The reflective layer is structured to reflect light through the optically transmissive layer to augment the contrast between the interior portion and the border to thereby enhance the visibility of the message.

Abstract: A hand washing device and method encouraging hand washing includes a display panel, a message “WASH UP with Soap and Water. Get rid of germs in only 15 seconds.” and may have one of a variety of timing means to time the wash cycle or the user may use an ordinary clock. Germ illustrations indicate consequences. The panel is on personal and public use soap dispensers and return springs are used as the timing device.

Abstract: A vehicle mounted flag holder constructed to be fastened to the rear of a vehicle, inserted into a conventional hitch receiver or to a bumper or bar hitch mount, depending upon how the vehicle is equipped. The flag holder has a provision for securely supporting a flagpole in a vertical position for display of a flag of substantial size while the vehicle is in motion or parked. The flag holder also has provision for rotating and securing the flagpole rearwardly to allow opening of a vehicle rear door or tail gate. Another embodiment supports two flagpoles, each displaying a flag. The flag holder is preferably made of steel or aluminum and the flagpoles are made of composite or contain spring material to allow for flex in high winds. The flagpole may be adjustable in height for a particular vehicle.

Abstract: An integrated new driver awareness program is jointly implemented by identifying new drivers and enlisting the organizations that interact most frequently with new drivers to assist in a coordinated educational effort, both for the new drivers and other drivers on the road. By visually identifying new driver's vehicles with a series of indicia and making other drivers on the roads more aware of the new driver's presence, status, and and/or proficiency level, the number of debilitating automobile accidents can be reduced. In the most preferred embodiment of the present invention, one or more visual indicators are affixed to the exterior and/or interior of a new driver's vehicle to alert other drivers that a new driver is operating a vehicle on the road.

Abstract: A flip-open floor sign includes a display panel, a first foot, and a second foot. The first foot and second foot are each connected to a lower portion of the display panel by a connecting mechanism. The first foot and second foot are configured to move between a closed position and an open position, and are configured to pivot relative to the display panel.

Abstract: An identification tag and related tag system are provided for securely mounting the identification tag onto a selected wearer or object, such as mounting onto a wearer's wrist or the like. The identification tag is adapted to receive wearer-related identification and other information in human readable and/or machine readable form, and for slide-fit assembly onto an elongated flexible strap such as a wristband or bracelet for mounting onto the selected wearer or object. In one preferred form, the identification tag includes a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit adapted for communicating wearer-related information with a remote reader. The tag system, including the identification tag assembled with the flexible strap, is particularly useful with a small wearer or object, such as an infant, to provided a relatively extensive and relatively flat information-bearing surface area.

Abstract: A picture frame that can illustrate photographs in various positions and displays universal qualities, ranging from mobile vehicles to stationary objects. The picture frame is constructed of light weight, durable, flexible and transparent properties in which can be displayed/viewed in a fashionable and convenient application. The dimension of the frame is not limited to size or shape, as it can be utilized in several ways. The picture frame is supported by a flexible wand, and requires to be accompanied by mounting devices consisting of, but not limited to: clips, suction cups, adhesive tape, dc adaptor, velcro.

Abstract: A trigger mechanism for small firearms with a striking hammer, a trigger, and a trigger rail, which interacts with the trigger and which can be moved by a control element from an engagement position for cocking the striking hammer into a release position for releasing the cocked striking hammer. The control element is a control slide, which can be moved by the movement of an action during repetition of the small firearm and through which the trigger rail can be moved from its release position into a catch position for catching the striking hammer cocked during repetition.

Abstract: A buttstock for a firearm is provided and includes a buttstock frame and a buttstock accessory. The buttstock frame has a frame wall with an exterior surface. The buttstock accessory is supported on the buttstock frame along the exterior surface.

Abstract: A modular barrel assembly for firearms that includes a breech section formed from a high-strength material and a barrel section. the barrel section generally is formed separately from the breech section and can be formed from a different, lighter-weight material. Once formed, the barrel and breech sections are attached together to form the complete barrel assembly.

Abstract: A reloadable launcher for use with rocket-propelled projectiles. An inner and outer tube define a concentric tube arrangement with at least one gas flow channel being defined therebetween. A ring is fixedly coupled to a first end of the outer tube that is adjacent to the breech end of the inner tube. The ring defines a keyway and an annular channel that lies between the keyway and the first end of the outer tube. A cap having a concave inner surface terminates in a peripheral edge that defines a key shaped for passage through the keyway of the ring. When the cap's key is aligned with and moved axially through the keyway, the key resides in the annular channel adjacent the first end of the outer tube. A link is hingedly coupled on one end thereof to the ring to permit the cap to be moved such that a projectile can be loaded into the inner tube from the breech end thereof. The link is also rotationally coupled to the cap's central portion such that the cap can be rotated thereabout.

Abstract: An improved floating waterfowl decoy is disclosed which includes novel stabilizing apparatus which results in the floating waterfowl decoy presenting a substantially improved appearance on water, with a substantial reduction in the level of unnatural bobbing, pitching, and rolling, thereby presenting a more realistic appearance. The floating waterfowl decoy has a stabilizing weight mounted at the distal end of a fin which extends downwardly from the bottom surface of the body of the floating waterfowl decoy. A lower fin which extends downwardly from the stabilizing weight helps reduce rolling. The bottom surface of the body of the floating waterfowl decoy has a plurality of inwardly extending recesses located therein which create a suction effect when the floating waterfowl decoy is placed into the water.

Abstract: This product is designed to provide a means by which those with limited physical strength can enjoy fishing. The device promotes the casting and retrieving of a fishing line through the use of a self-casting mechanism. The Self-Casting Remote Control Fishing Rod comprises a rod, reel, wire line, cast button, bail button, bobber, bobber bell, handle, gas source, and may also include a safety trigger, radio receiver, bail, solenoid, rewind button, self-caster mechanism, solenoid valve, compression chamber, electric motor, gear driven reel, power source compartment, and radio activated transmitter/receiver unit.

Abstract: This invention provides a vapor heat apparatus for treating fruits by killing insects such as, for example, a Mediterranean fruit fly, an orange small fruit fly, a Queensland fruit fly and a melon fruit fly or the like. The invention prevents thermal troubles experienced by fruits undergoing treatment by allowing each of the fruits stored in each of the fruit storing means to reach a predetermined fruit central temperature at substantially the same time. The vapor supplying means and the heat exchanger means are controlled in reference to a sensed signal of the fruit temperature sensing means.

Abstract: The present invention is a structure of container, which includes a protective cover and a body with a concave part. The said body has a first room formed between its outer edge and side-wall structure; the said protective cover is a hollow ring form with a second room provided at its cross section. The said protective cover and the said body are fitted in with each other and can be pressed for closing. When liquid is loaded into the first or the second room, the liquid will prevent the invasion of bugs or ants. Besides, even if the body is turned around 360 degrees, no leakage will happen because the liquid just flow between the first room and the second room.

Abstract: A device for safely exterminating and removing insects and their nests includes a mesh basket supported on the distal end of a telescopically extendable pole. The basket is structured to partially collapse and includes a rubber gasket around an open top for sealed engagement against the surface surrounding the nest, thereby effectively containing the nest and capturing flying and crawling insects in the basket. A pressurized canister containing a chemical substance snaps into operable position on the pole, near the basket. A handle on the proximal end of the pole includes a trigger for actuating release of the chemical substance from the pressurized canister and towards the nest, thereby killing the captured insects. A blade supported within the basket enables removal of the nest from the surface after all of the insects have been exterminated. A splash shield removably attaches to the pole, below the basket, to protect the user from the chemical sprayed on the nest.

Abstract: A hydrocarbonaceous fuel additive, fuel composition, and method all lower both carbon particulate emissions and improve slag properties in combustion systems including, for instance, utility furnaces and boiler systems. The mixed metal catalyst may include a transition metal-containing compound, an alkali metal compound, and a magnesium-containing compound.

Abstract: The invention provides a fuel oil composition comprising a fuel oil of animal or vegetable origin and an additive comprising A) at least one copolymer of ethylene and 8-21 mol % of at least one acrylic or vinyl ester having a C1-C18-alkyl radical and B) at least one comb polymer containing structural units having C8-C16-alkyl radicals, the structural units being selected from C8-C16-alkyl (meth)acrylates, C8-C16-alkyl vinyl esters, C8-C16-alkyl vinyl ethers, C8-C16-alkyl (meth)acrylamides, C8-C16-alkyl allyl ethers and C8-C16-diketenes, where the sum R R = m 1 · ? i ? w 1 ? i · n 1 ? i + m 2 · ? j ? w 2 ? j · n 2 ? j + … + m g · ? p ? w gp · n gp is the molar average of the carbon chain length distributions in the alkyl radicals of the monomers B) is from 11.0 to 14.0, where m1, m2, . . . mg are the molar fractions of the abovementioned monomers B) in the polymer and the sum of the molar fractions m1 to m9=1, w1i, w1j, w2i, w2j . . .

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of reducing air pollutant emissions such as dioxin or mercury from combustion facilities including furnaces and electricity generation equipment. More particularly, the invention relates to a method of reducing the amount of air pollutants such as dioxin or mercury from combustion facilities by inputting the precursor of nano-particles such as titanium dioxide photo-catalyst or reactive potassium iodide into the combustion facilities as a mixture with air or fuel supply of the combustion facilities, thereby allowing nano-particles to be synthesized during the combustion process and such synthesized nano-particles to absorb, decompose and adhere the air pollutants in the combustion facilities.

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

Abstract: A process is disclosed for the preparation of biodiesel, whereby oil is subjected to catalytical transesterification, settling, separation, bubble washing and micro filtration at controlled conditions of temperature and turbulence. The process enables production of high quality fuel, termed as biodisel, within a period of as low as 50 hrs. The fuel can be used without blending with any conventional fuel.

Abstract: A process of producing soil mediums or alternative fuel mediums from organic wastes or sludges comprises: a) providing at least one collection of organic wastes or sludges; b) providing a heated air system; c) providing an exhaust system coupled to the heated air system; d) introducing the at least one collection of organic wastes or sludges to the heated air system; e) operating the heated air system in order to convert the at least one collection of organic wastes or sludges to a soil medium or alternative fuel medium; f) exhausting and/or removing any dust particles or undesirable gases by utilizing the exhaust system.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an artificial seed blank (20) is provided. The method includes placing a restraint (324) on one of a plurality of receptacles (372). The method also includes placing a seed shell (322) over the restraint on one of the plurality of receptacles, and attaching the restraint to the seed shell.

Abstract: A process for treatment of organic wastes from municipal wastewater to produce a product for spreading seed in an organic matrix includes the steps of providing organic waste including biosolids and their contained cellulose from municipal wastewater, rendering the organic waste free of foreign objects, rendering the organic waste pathogen free, and sterile relative to plant seeds, by milling in a batch or semi-batch format using a rotor-stator mixer or mill, and mixing the milled organic waste with waste paper products and/or pelletizing the mixture to form a horticultural mulch, to which seed can be added. The pH optionally is adjusted, and additional materials that aid in seed germination or plant growth optionally are mixed into the treated product. The final product is a high quality, beneficial re-use organic soil amendment that provides an enriched seed starter system for lawns or other commercial turf-grass operations.

Abstract: A vacuum pick-up device 20 includes a device body 22 having a pick-up tip opening 78 to which vacuum pressure is supplied. The vacuum pick-up device 20 further includes a mechanical release assisting device 36 that assists in the release of a grasped object contemporaneously with or slightly subsequent to the cessation of vacuum pressure. A manifold 38 may be included to efficiently and effectively supply vacuum pressure to the device body 22 from a vacuum pressure source.

Abstract: A component for ground covers for trees and bushes consisting of a substantially non-transparent plate which at each rim has a rim strip which is a substantially non-transparent strip protruding from each rim of the substantially non-transparent plate which has many penetrable holes which allow pins to penetrate through and pin down the component on the ground; the substantially non-transparent plate having one or more weakened zone(s) which span(s) inclusively from one rim strip to the other rim strip; a portion of the substantially non-transparent plate being severable along the weakened zone; along an edge of each weakened zone the substantially non-transparent plate having a weakened zone strip which is a substantially non-transparent strip protruding from the surface of the substantially non-transparent plate; the weakened zone having at least a groove or the weakened zone being a curve depicted by a series of holes on the component; the substantially non-transparent plate having optionally a slightly co

Abstract: An edging strip having improved mating features. The edging strip is an elongate segment of extruded material which has top and bottom edges and front and rear sides. Mating features are provided on the top and bottom edges and are configured to unite with each other only when one edging strip is upside down relative to the other edging strip and axially aligned so that one edging strip is slidable axially relative to the other edging strip to thereby cause an interconnecting mating of the mating features.

Abstract: A leg support apparatus comprising a leg comprising a first support and a second support. The leg comprising a pivot end and a spike end. A base comprising a lug side, a ground contact side, and a surrounding wall connecting between the lug side and ground contact side, with lugs extending from the lug side. A pin used for pivotally connecting the lugs to the pivot end of the leg. A spike extending from the spike end of the leg. The spike used for used for engaging a wire basket surrounding the root ball of a plant or used for engaging the lip of a container holding a plant, so that the plant is supported by the leg support apparatus and ground and does not tip over. A leg support apparatus comprising a body comprising a rocker bottom base from which extends a leg, and wherein a spike extends from the spike end of the leg, and the spike is used for engaging a wire basket surrounding a root ball and preventing the plant from tipping over.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an artificial seed blank (20) is provided. The method includes placing a seed shell (22) on one of a plurality of receptacles (72) at the first assembly station. The method also includes depositing media (26) into the seed shell and positioning the seed shell at a second assembly station. The method also includes removing the seed blank from the receptacle at the second assembly station.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for improving the germination of manufactured seeds. The methods comprise the step of inserting a plant embryo having a shoot end into a shoot restraint comprising an interior surface, wherein at least one of the interior surface of the shoot restraint and the plant embryo is contacted with a hydrated gel before or after inserting the plant embryo into the shoot restraint. The hydrated gel may comprise nutrients for the plant embryo. Another aspect of the invention provides manufactured seeds comprising a hydrated gel disposed between the shoot restraint and the plant embryo.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing an artificial seed blank (20) is provided. The method includes placing a seed shell (22) on one of a plurality of receptacle (72) containing an end seal formation material (218) at the first assembly station. The method also includes forming an end seal (200) at one end of the seed shell by permitting the predetermined amount of an end seal formation material to change state. Further, the method includes depositing media (26) into the seed shell and positioning the seed shell at a second assembly station. The method also includes removing the seed shell from the receptacle at the second assembly station.

Abstract: A method for the propagation of and aeroponic growing of plants comprises transplanting a living plant into a vessel of polymer foam having at least one cavity distal to the plant; applying water to the foam sufficient to saturate the foam, whereby roots of the plant extend into and grow within the cavity.

Abstract: Flexible materials having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance of cloth suitable for use in the formation of decorative flower pot covers and flower pots are disclosed. The flexible materials include polymeric materials, paper and laminates thereof.

Abstract: A reactor wall for a entrained-flow gasifier for the gasification of carbon-containing fuels, by-products, and waste materials at elevated temperature and pressure includes, arranged sequentially from an outside surface of the wall to an inside surface of the wall: a pressure shell (2); a water-carrying ring-shaped gap (3); a cooling wall (4); a thermally conductive ramming material (5); a solid layer of slag (6); a liquid film of slag (7); and a gasification chamber (1).

Abstract: Process for production of synthesis gas comprising carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and hydrogen by reforming of methanol including the steps of: (a) introducing methanol in liquid phase into a reactor containing a solid methanol reforming catalyst suspended in a liquid phase of methanol and water; (b) reacting the liquid phase of methanol and water in presence of the suspended catalyst at a pressure and temperature, where methanol is maintained in the liquid phase; and (c) withdrawing from the reactor a gas phase of synthesis gas being produced during reaction of the liquid methanol and water phase.

Abstract: A window lifter geared motor assembly includes a drive shaft driven about an axis, a reduction gearset driven about an axis rotationally driven by the drive shaft, and a sensor. The output of the sensor is dependent upon a distance between the axis of the reduction gearset and the axis of the drive shaft. When the sensor detects an increased in the distance that exceeds a threshold value, operation of the geared motor assembly is interrupted. The assembly detects trapping that is likely to occur when an object, and particularly a hand, impedes the operation of the window.

Abstract: Hashing and pattern matching are used in an information processing system to process incoming messages from a network such as an Ethernet-based network. Using hashing and pattern matching increases the efficiency of message acceptance and rejection without increasing software-based processor tasks. A hash function and a pattern matching function are performed on a message received by an information processing system, and the message is selectively accepted based on at least one of a hash result and a pattern matching result. The incoming message can be searched for the existence of patterns and the absence of the patterns. The incoming message can be searched for the existence of multiple patterns. The results of pattern matching can be used not only for acceptance and rejection of messages, but also for other post-receipt tasks such as selective storage of incoming messages according to identified relative priorities or absolute criticality of messages having particular pattern matches.

Abstract: In a movable object system (10) that makes use of both a maintained count (31) that corresponds to movement of a given object and passpoint events (32) as generated by a corresponding passpoint signal generator (15), count zones (34, 37, 36A, 36B) can be defined for at least one of the passpoint events. Such count zones can be used to aid in determining when significant recalibration of the passpoint event/count value relationships should be undertaken. In a preferred embodiment, such count zones include no more than a single passpoint event.

Abstract: The invention relates to a magnetic safety closure for a protection device moveable with respect to a fixed part, comprising: a housing attachable to the protection device and provided with a handle for opening and closing the protection device; the housing further comprising a sensor housing attachable to the fixed part and provided with a sensor for determining whether the protection device is closed or open; the housing attachable to the protection device having an initiating device for the sensor, which device is opposite said sensor when the protection device is closed; and the housing and the sensor housing sharing between them a magnet arrangement having at least one holding magnet and an associated pole plate; wherein the handle is a two-armed lever pivotably mounted on the housing, one arm of the lever facing the sensor housing and with its free end disconnecting the at least one holding magnet of the magnet arrangement from its associated pole plate when the handle is pivoted out in order to open th

Abstract: A finger guard including a flexible member including a plurality of folds and two opposite edge portions, the flexible member having a folded configuration and a spread configuration, and a pair of attachment members, one being securable to a door and the other being securable to a door jamb, each of the attachment members including a receiving portion for receiving therein one of the edge portions of the flexible member, wherein folds at a center of the finger guard, called central folds, protrude farther out than folds at sides of the finger guard.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous composition useful for polishing silica and silicon nitride on a semiconductor wafer comprising by weight percent 0.001 to 1 phthalic acid and salts thereof, 0.001 to 1 quaternary ammonium compound, 0.01 to 5 carboxylic acid polymer, 0.01 to 5 abrasive and balance water.

Abstract: A superabrasive particle coated with a solidified coating of a molten braze alloy that is chemically bonded to the superabrasive particle, where the molten braze alloy includes a substantially less-reactive protective material, is disclosed and described. In one aspect, the molten braze alloy may coat at least about 80% of an outer surface of the superabrasive particle. Various methods for making and using such a coated superabrasive particle are additionally disclosed and described.

Abstract: A polishing composition of the present invention, to be used in polishing for forming wiring in a semiconductor device, includes: a specific surfactant; a silicon oxide; at least one selected from the group consisting of carboxylic acid and alpha-amino acid; a corrosion inhibitor; an oxidant; and water This polishing composition is capable of suppressing the occurrence of the dishing.