Abstract: A pointed tool and sheath combination allow for use of the tool as a string line anchor and/or as a plumb bob and provide safe storage of the tool when not in use. The preferred tool is comprised of a dart-like body having a longitudinal axial bore, and a sharpened spike clamped within the longitudinal bore. Sheaths are provided that with snap-in installation of the tool down past curved, inwardly-protruding walls of the sheath, or of the tool into engagement with a latching arm that cooperates with a recess or other latching surface on the tool.

Abstract: A locator for hanging picture frames employs an arm which has a handle dispose at one end. A suspension/marker assembly is carried at a second position of the arm. The suspension/marker assembly comprises a plunger which has a point and also mounts a head which receives a frame hanger. Embodiments are disclosed for both a single mount and for a single or a dual mount application.

Abstract: A tool for making locking tapered sliding dovetail joints and a kit including the tool. The tool includes a pin guide having a minor end having a minor width and a major end having a major width that is larger than the minor width such that the template has a taper in width from the major end to the minor end. The tool also includes a locking section configured such that the tool forms an area of increased friction in the joint relative to the rest of the joint. The tool may also include at least one stabilizing member for holding the template in place while the sliding dovetail pin is being formed from the workpiece.

Abstract: A tool for making locking tapered sliding dovetail joints and a kit including the tool. The tool includes a guide plate having a guide groove including a locking section disposed on at least one of edges of the groove guide, wherein at least a portion of the locking section is disposed in a plane that is different from the plane of the groove edge corresponding to the groove edge on which the locking section is located.

Abstract: A measuring system for the recording of angular or position values wherein the scale includes a measurement track with absolute encoding, and which is scanned by a sensor is provided. The scale is composed of at least two segments with similar absolute encoding, and a parallel track is provided on the scale with which the absolute value of the particular segment reached is calculated. The total absolute value is then gained from the combination of both absolute values.

Abstract: A digital display tape measuring device is disclosed having a display screen exteriorly for displaying the measured distance. A tape having electrical conductivity capabilities and an insulator disposed longitudinally along the tape dividing the tape into two electrical conductors, and having a tip thereof electrically connecting both of the electrical conductors together such that an electrical circuit is formed with resistance that varies as the tape is extracted from device. An ohmmeter electrically coupled across the electrical circuit for measuring the circuit resistance. A microprocessor having inputs thereof coupled to outputs of the ohmmeter and having outputs coupled to said display screen. The microprocessor computes measurements made by as a function of the resistance measured by the ohmmeter.

Abstract: A compressed air supply system for an air drying device such as a blow-off air knife or compressed air manifold with nozzles directed at articles passing on a conveyor therebeneath is provided with a recirculation loop. An adjustably variable portion of the compressed air emanating from the outlet duct of the air compressor is diverted from the air delivery inlet duct leading to the air blow-off device and is a recirculated to the inlet of the air compressor, where it is mixed with ambient air at ambient temperature and pressure. The blower system recirculates between about one percent and eighty percent of the total air flow emanating from the compressor outlet duct to produce a fully adjustable total air temperature rise of up to twenty-five degrees Fahrenheit for each one pound per square inch of blower pressure above ambient air pressure.

Abstract: A hood-shaped foil covering an object is heat-shrunk around the object by displacing the object covered by the foil along a generally straight path in a transport direction past a stationary heater which is directed at an acute angle to the direction. The position of the object relative to the heater as it passes the heater in the direction is detected and heat is projected from the heater at the acute angle to the direction at the object as it passes at a rate varied in accordance with the detected position of the object relative to the heater.

Abstract: A device for treating particulate material has a process chamber. A bottom of the process chamber is composed of baffle plates which overlap one another and between which slots are formed. It is proposed to design the baffle plates as annular plates, so that circular slots are formed, and to place the annular plates in such a way that a radially outer, first flow, directed from outside to inside, of process air passing through, and a radially inner, second flow, directed from inside to outside, of process air passing through are formed, the two opposed flows meeting one another along a circular breaking-up zone and being deflected into a flow directed vertically upwards.

Abstract: The invention is an article of footwear having one or more support elements disposed in the sole. At least one of the support elements includes an aperture that increase the compliance of the sole. By selecting a specific aperture configuration for each support element, the compliance of each area of the footwear may be adjusted to conform to the demands of a particular application for the footwear. In addition, the footwear may include one or more plugs that are removably-received by the apertures to provide the wearer with control over the compliance characteristics of the sole.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing system and device for footwear, and a footwear article including the device. The shock-absorbing device has a plurality of first projections distributed on and extending upwardly from the upper surface in contact with the user's foot, and a plurality of second projections distributed on and extending downwardly from the lower surface in contact with the ground. During the flexion of the foot when stepping, the second projections yield elastically, and displace the first projections upwards and into contact with the foot. The first projections move in a plurality of directions, achieving a massage action, the shock-absorbing, and the uniform distribution of the load on the foot.

Abstract: A replacement outer sole and method for converting a non-spiked dress or sport shoe to a spiked shoe. The replacement outer sole includes an outer sole that supports a plurality of surface gripping devices in an outer periphery thereof. The replacement outer sole is coupled to the upper portion of a flat-soled shoe, converting the non-spiked shoe to a sports shoe having a surface gripping device such as cleats or spikes generally used for walking, running golfing or other activities.

Abstract: There is provided an article of footwear having a thematical a toe box cover. The toe box cover may be removably coupleable to a primary shoe element in which the toe box cover has an ornamental sculptured work simulating the appearance of another and different article. A covering system for an article of footwear, includes a themed cover adapted to cover at least a forefoot portion of a foot of a wearer. The themed cover may include a flange provided for removably coupling the themed cover to the article of footwear and the flange is disposed on bottom periphery of the themed cover. Further, a plurality of interchangeable footcovers bears different three-dimensional ornamental simulations within a common theme relating to another article of manufacture. There is also provided a method of marketing an article of manufacture with an article of footwear, in which the article of manufacture is different from the article of footwear.

Abstract: A snowshoe has a pivoted mounting on its boot harness, for rotation about a pitch axis for a first degree of freedom in movement of the user's boot relative to the snowshoe; and provision for a second degree of freedom of motion along a roll axis, allowing the user's boot to tip from side to side, particularly for uneven or sidehill terrain. In both axes the boot preferably is spring-biased toward a neutral position. At the same time, freedom of movement is restricted and essentially prevented between the boot and snowshoe relative to a third axis, the yaw or vertical axis. Several different structural arrangements are disclosed in several types of snowshoes, for achieving the second degree of freedom.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole portion; a second portion above the sole portion, the second portion including a compartment therein; and a drawer which is receivable within the compartment of the second portion and elastically attached to the article of footwear. The second portion is preferably a heel portion of the article of footwear, and the drawer is preferably engaged with the article of footwear by an elastic thread. The drawer may have an interior portion which is divided into a plurality of compartments.

Abstract: A football boot with a zip replacing laces. Easy on/off capability and no time wasted due to tying and retying laces. No pressure point and also eliminates injury risk of players tripping over undone laces.

Abstract: A backhoe (100) has a hydraulic cylinder (316, 317) with a piston (318, 319) that rotates a rotatable boom (108). A lockable slider block (322) slides on the piston. Movement of the lockable slider block in one direction is caused by a spring (328, 329) mounted around the piston, and in another direction is caused by the telescoping of the piston into the hydraulic cylinder. The backhoe includes a hydraulic valve (340) that controls hydraulic pressure to the hydraulic cylinder and a sensor (320) coupled to the hydraulic valve. Once locked to a position on the piston, the lockable slider block engages the sensor on each occasion the rotatable boom rotates beyond a preselected angle of rotation. Engagement of the sensor causes actuation of the hydraulic valve, thereby preventing further rotation of the boom by the hydraulic cylinder. Alternative embodiments have an encoder (120, 130) that digitizes the position of the boom, and a microcomputer (410) that is programmed to actuate the hydraulic valve.

Abstract: An improvement in a piping arrangement for swing type hydraulic excavators achieved. Piping is provided on a cylinder for an implement from a side of the swivel frame through the swing bracket, the swing bracket is formed on a side thereof with a piping hole, which extends outside from an interior thereof, and piping for that cylinder for an implement, which is disposed in the vicinity of the swing bracket, is performed from the interior of the swing bracket through the piping hole.

Abstract: A gravesite memory marker made of transparent flexibly resilient plastic having a pair of nestable members forming a weather resistant framed area for holding a photograph or other memorabilia and a pointed stake for insertion into the ground at the gravesite.

Abstract: A claim tag assembly has a first layer of card stock and a second layer of card stock with a liner sandwiched therebetween. Score lines are cut through the layers of card stock and the liner to define a first identification portion and a second identification portion. A first identifier is printed on the first identification portion for conveying a first message and a second identifier is printed on the second identification portion for conveying a second message which is identical to the first message. The first and second identification portions can then be matched after separation. The score lines further defining a card with the card being separable from the first and second identification portions. The card has at least promotional indicia and/or a coupon printed thereon for providing a marketing aspect to the claim tag assembly. Preferably, the card has a plurality of mini-coupons which can be detached from the card.

Abstract: A discreet removable chronological group indicator tab placed on a product at a predetermined depletion level. The tab appears on the product to notify the consumer the product needs replacement before its actual depletion. The tab has indicia that states the exact number of product left. Once the tab appears, the tab is then intended to be removed from the product and attached to the side of the product dispenser as a noticeable reminder, placed in a wallet, or on a shopping list. The indicator tab bears the name or image of the product. The tab has a removable coupon with a UPC bar code attached to it that will encourage the consumer to replace the exact same product. This device enables a consumer to readily determine the exact type of product needing replenishment with the convenience of replacement before its actual depletion.

Abstract: A signboard device exhibiting information regarding roads, buildings or street names is disclosed. The device includes a post having a plurality of fitting grooves at its outer surface; a base joined to a concrete foundation, the base having a post-seating stepped recesses comprised of two concentric recesses; a post cover unit comprised a lower cover, a cylindrical intermediate cover and an upper cover; a signboard unit comprised of a signboard frame assembly and a pair of signboards attached to the stepped lines of the signboard frame assembly; and a stopper for fixing the signboard frame assembly to the post. The device enables one or more signboards to be easily installed on a post, and has excellent structural strength and an adaptable appearance.

Abstract: A preferred artistic medium comprises a first translucent sheet having at least one first image presented thereon, a second translucent sheet having a least one second image presented thereon, the second image being substantially identical to the first image, wherein at least a portion of at least one of the first and second sheets is textured in a substantially uncolored area of the image, and wherein the first and second sheets are positioned in proximity to one another and in a relative orientation such that the first and second images are in substantial registration with each other.

Abstract: A point of purchase retail display system for a product includes a graphic-holding and pocket portion (10) and a gripping portion (11). The portion (10) includes a pocket (20) having a cover (29) and a wall (12) having flanges (16, 17) spaced therefrom. A graphic display (57) may be received between the cover (29) and the flanges (16, 17). The wall (12) has a plurality of openings (41) therein and opposed lugs (42, 44), forming channels therebetween, are formed adjacent to the openings (41). The gripping portion (11) includes two gripping areas (54) having teeth (55) to grip the product when the gripping areas (54) are folded on a hinge (51). The gripping areas (54) also carry flanges (52) which can be received in the channels between the lugs (42, 44) to connect the portions (10, 11) and to maintain the gripping areas (54) folded on the hinge (51) and engaging the product.

Abstract: A combination label holder and sign, where the label holder component is of extruded construction and the sign component is inexpensively formed of sheet plastic material, printed with text and/or graphics on both sides and removably attached to the label holder component. The label holder component includes a clip, for attachment to a peg hook or shelf front, integrally attached to a label holder by means of a thin, flexible hinge. The label holder has front and back panels, joined at the bottom to form a label-holding pocket. A sign-holding channel is formed on the back panel of the label holder by a pair of horizontally disposed, spaced apart channel-forming flanges. The sign-holding channel slidably receives a mounting tongue portion of the sign component. The main body of the sign component extends outwardly at right angles from the label holder and its graphics are visible from opposite sides to customers walking in either direction in a merchandise aisle.

Abstract: An adjustable frame for displaying three dimensional objects includes a peripheral border unit having segments with a front face and a channel extending along the segments, a side face formed integrally with the front face, keys for interconnecting the segments, a back panel, a retainer tab for contacting an outer surface of the back panel, a fastener including a head for retention within the channel and an elongated shank extending from the head for adjustably engaging the retainer tab along the shank and securing the back panel to the peripheral border unit. An outer surface of the front face of each segment having an ornamentally attractive façade. The frame may further include a second channel extending along the frame having an opening facing the back panel, a side panel for insertion in the second channel and extending from the front face toward the back panel to form a shadow box within the frame.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system and method providing immediate monitoring of physiological parameters, such as cardiac function, during or after application of electric shock to temporarily incapacitate a subject via at least one electrode ballistically implanted into the subject's skin, including altering of energy characterized parameters based upon said monitored physiological parameters.

Abstract: This invention provides two broad features. First, there is a firearm having a movable ramp (20) for receiving a cartridge (12a) stripped from a magazine (10) thereon. The ramp (20) is situated behind and below the firing chamber (28) and is movable between a tilted position, in which the ramp (20) guides the cartridge (12a) upward as it advances towards the chamber, and an elevated position, in which it supports the cartridge (12a) in alignment with the chamber (28). The firearm includes a slide-bolt assembly for advancing cartridges (12a) into the chamber, and the ramp (20) and the slide-bolt assembly engage each other such that the ramp (20) moves to the elevated position as the slide-bolt assembly moves towards the chamber (28). Second, there is a firearm adapted for a dual clip (116a, 118a) magazine (100) so that either of two different types of cartridges (102a, 10 4a) may be chosen for firing.

Abstract: An optical correcting system which enables a shooter to better see both the sights of his firearm and the target includes a series of lenses of sequentially incremental one quarter diopter optical power, a chart which facilitates selection of the appropriate lens, and a headband assembly which secures the selected lens in a manner to fit over the shooter's aiming eye. An identification code correlates the information on the chart with the chosen headband assembly.

Abstract: A night-vision optical device of the invention with controlled life expectancy contains a time measuring device built into the housing of the aforementioned device for measuring the accumulated time of active work of the device. In application to a night scope for a firearm, the device also contains a sensor, which is interlocked with activation of the scope and reacts on the shots produced from the firearm in general and separately on those shots produced during active work of the night-vision optics at nighttime. The aforementioned shots of both types are counted and stored in separate memory units. The night-time shots affects the life expectancy of the night-vision optics because of muzzle flashes which cause such devices as an image intensifier to work with an increased light load. The information obtained from the time measuring device and the shot counter makes it possible to timely receive a warning signal about the fact that the night optics or the entire firearm must be replaced.

Abstract: The present invention provides a multi-purpose tool for use in outdoor activities and, in particular, ice fishing and shore fishing. The tool is particularly useful as a tip-up marker and equipment caddy. The tool also includes a variety of interchangeable tips such that it can be used for hiking, chipping ice and gaffing fish.

Abstract: The present invention uses the Jig Fishing System™ to achieve a more effective and enjoyable way of ice fishing. By practicing the disclosed invention, the skilled practitioner will now enjoy quick set-up, enhanced monitoring, and more effective, safer, warmer, dryer and more social ice fishing. The advantages of using the present invention include: easy set-up, storage and transportability of the ice fishing devices; easier and more effective fish detection monitoring, including fish detection monitoring from a distance; warmer, dryer, safer and more social ice fishing; and the ability to have reliable fish strike monitoring and signaling during the day, night or inclement weather.

Abstract: A fishing rod holder system, for holding a fishing rod and securing to a deck rail or ground surface, using a fishing rod holder having a threaded rod, a fixed clamp attached to one end of the threaded rod, a u-shaped rod support bracket attached to the other end of the threaded rod, a movable clamp, and an adjustment wheel for holding the fixed clamp against the movable clamp. A rod support tube mounts in the u-shaped rod support bracket and has an open end for holding the fishing rod. A ground adapter has a cylindrical body that selectively inserts between the fixed clamp and movable clamp and has a pair of stakes for attaching to the ground surface. The holder may be secure to the deck rail by extending the deck rail between the fixed clamp and movable clamp and tightening the adjustment wheel thereagainst.

Abstract: A fishing jig system with an interchangeable jig head is disclosed for permitting a variety of jig heads with different configurations and functions to be used with a single jig hook and avoid having to remove the jig hook from a fishing line to reconfigure the fishing jig. The jig system includes a hook having a shank portion and an eye portion, with the shank portion and the eye portion meeting at a juncture. A modular mounting member is mounted on the hook at the juncture for removably receiving a fishing accessory. A fishing accessory, such as a jig head, is removably mounted on the modular mounting member, and the fishing accessory has a recess formed therein for slidably receiving at least a portion of the modular mounting member such that the accessory may be removed and replaced without removing the jig hook from the fishing line.

Abstract: A fish hook assembly including a conventional hook and an auxiliary hook mounted on the conventional hook. The auxiliary hook includes an operable member that engages the mouth of the fish responsive to the fish biting the hook assembly.

Abstract: A trap for catching mosquitoes uses a plurality of housings that are disposed along a perimeter to be protected against the mosquitoes. Each housing has a heat source, a mesh for trapping the insects, and a fan to pull the insects into the mesh. A first container holds carbon dioxide while a second container holds octenol. The carbon dioxide is pumped through the octenol holding container and the combined carbon dioxide and octenol are passed are mixed and enter a first conduit. Each housing is fluid flow connected to the first conduit and some of the combined carbon dioxide and octenol passes to each housing in order to act as attractants for the insects. A second conduit runs parallel to the first conduit and carries electricity such that when each housing attaches to the first conduit it also attaches to the second conduit in order to provide an electrical connection to the housing's fan and light.

Abstract: A device for dispensing insecticide. The device includes a body, at least one crevasse and a plurality of protrusions extending out from the body. The body can have a circular, triangular, square or any other polygonal shape. The body can also be formed as an elongate member wherein the at least one crevasse extends along a longitudinal axis of this body. The body can also contain an internal chamber that is in fluid communication with the crevasse so that insecticide can be injected into this internal chamber and then flow into this at least one crevasse.

Abstract: A package for mosquito control articles having a plurality of wells within a tray. At least one of the wells has a center post with spokes radiating from the post and forming segments within the at least one well. The mosquito control article is formed in sections with one section in each segment of the at least one well. The number of sections used to treat a body of water is determined by the surface area of the body of water and the predetermined amount of active ingredient in each section of the mosquito control article. A method of use is disclosed.

Abstract: A floral container sized to contain a flower pot or a growing medium and a plant, the floral container having a base and a detachable upper portion constructed in the configuration of an accordion fold which can be expanded vertically. The floral container may optionally have a skirt portion.

Abstract: An electronic position sensor for use with a power operated vehicle accessory, such as a power liftgate. The position sensor includes an elongated resistive circuit that is mounted such that it is stationary and extends along the path of a track portion of the power operated accessory. The position sensor further includes a contact nub mounted to a link member that moves within the track portion such that the contact nub is slidingly biased against the elongated circuit. As the link member moves under the force of a motor-driven output gear, the contact nub slides along the surface of the resistive circuit, thereby affecting the overall resistance of the circuit. The position sensor uses the overall resistance to provide an electronic position signal to an ECU, wherein the signal is indicative of the absolute position of the power operated accessory.

Abstract: A sound-absorbing shield device for use in a vehicle door comprises a sheet of sound-absorbing material and a thin sheet of polymer film. A first face of the polymer film is attached to the sound absorbing material and a plurality of apertures extending through the polymer film from the first face thereof to a second face thereof opposite the first face. Each aperture is bounded by a hollow protrusion extending from the second film face, whereby the apertures and protrusions cooperate to form a barrier against moisture or other environmental contamination while admitting acoustic energy therethrough into the sound absorbing material.

Abstract: Greenhouse (1) provided with a roof element (2) having a multiplicity of transverse ribs (12, 13, 14, 15) or pyramids uniformly distributed over the roof element. The roof element can be constructed double-walled as a hollow-core sheet from transparent plastic and can comprise a base sheet with the rib-shaped or pyramid-shaped roof surfaces fixed thereon. The light yield in a horticultural greenhouse can be increased by the roof elements.

Abstract: A kit includes a series of components, capable of being flat packed, that can be assembled to form an arch or a section of an arch for use in a building such as a residential structure. The kit includes a pair of curved sides with each curved side including an inner face, an outer face, an upper edge and a lower edge. Formed along the inner face of each side is a curved groove. A flexible or pliable jamb is provided in the kit. Secured in spaced apart relationship along one side of the jamb is a series of clips. When assembled, the arch or arch section includes the clips extending between these sides and including portions that project into the curved grooves. The clips effectively secures the jamb to the sides.

Abstract: A water deflecting apparatus is provided for a fixture mounted on a wall. The apparatus comprises a mounting plate having a front and a back. A protrusion extends outwardly from the front of the mounting plate, the protrusion having an aperture for extending about the fixture, a bottom and a top which slopes downwardly to at least one side of the opening when the apparatus is mounted on the wall, thereby deflecting water towards said at least one side of the opening. A passageway extends downwardly from the top towards the bottom thereof and is spaced-apart from the opening, thereby deflecting water away from the fixture.

Abstract: An offset beam clamp having a deep channel including two legs, a hole in the channel bottom, and a slot having two sides and a slot bottom and extending transversely through the legs. The slot receives the first of two angle iron members that comprise the upper cord of a web joist. A J-bolt is anchored to the second angle iron member and extends through the hole in the channel bottom where an angle bracket is secured on the bolt. A threaded mounting shaft is attached to the angle bracket.

Abstract: A ground covering element having the basic shape of a square. All four basic sides of the around covering element have an engaging profile, each profile being symmetric with respect to a central axis of symmetry. Opposite engaging profiles are mirror images. Each engaging profile is complementary with the adjacent engaging profile. Each of the four corner regions of the ground covering element of a first type have a protrusion substantially the shape of a rectangular, isosceles triangle or of an area element similar to this triangle with curved legs. A ground covering element of a second type (42) is obtained by omitting the four protrusions from the ground covering element of the first type. The ground covering element of the second type may be laid together with additional ground covering elements of the second type or in combination with ground covering elements of the first type.

Abstract: A compressible structure for temporarily protecting a glass pane of a window structure includes a shaping member for removable securement on the window structure and defining a cavity over the glass pane and a layer of solidified compressible material in said cavity providing protection for the glass pane. A window protection system includes a shaping member and a supply system for supplying a compressible material in fluidic form to a cavity of the shaping member, wherein the fluidic compressible material sets to form a layer of solidified compressible material. A protected window structure includes a window structure and a panel of solidified compressible foam material disposed over at least a portion of one or more glass panes of the window structure.

Abstract: An insulative, lightweight concrete building panel is provided with one or more fiber or steel reinforcements which are manufactured in a controlled environment and can be easily transported and erected at a building site.

Abstract: Improved flooring is disclosed that is formed by concrete slabs (1) with several parallel ribs (11) on the upper surface, between which there are longitudinal channels (12) connected with a main channel (2) laid transversally, in relation with one of the ends of the concrete slabs (1), and which ends in an outside connection (3). The ribs (11) have a thickened part (13) on the upper edge with an inner hole (15) for the circulation of hot water. Between the thickened parts (13) there are some grooves (15). The flooring is manufactured on site or by means of prefabricated slabs.

Abstract: The invention disclosed relates to a precast composite header joint system and method for forming and installing the same in a concrete deck structure. According to the invention, the header is cast and cured before being positioned and secured in a recess formed in one of the concrete slabs. A viscous bonding agent is then poured into the void spaces between the header and the concrete slab recess. The bonding agent cures and forms a solid material which fills all of the space between the header and the concrete slab recess. Adjacent headers installed in opposing concrete slab recesses are coupled together by a joint to provide a continuous deck structure.