Abstract: A tool, including a base having a base edge, the base edge being adapted to align in a substantially parallel orientation with an edge of a work piece; and a swing arm having a work edge formed thereon, the swing arm being pivotally mounted on the base at a point where the base edge and swing arm intersect.

Abstract: An electrostatic capacitance tilt angle sensor having a size that is reduced without lowering detection capacity. The sensor is provided with a case including a first wall and a second wall facing each other. A common electrode is arranged on the first wall and a differential electrode is arranged on the second wall. A liquid electrostatic capacitance medium is accommodated in the case and contacts the common electrode and the differential electrode. The electrostatic capacitance medium includes an insulative liquid base and fine particles mixed in the base. The fine particles have a dielectric constant that is higher than that of the base.

Abstract: The present invention provides an attitude sensing device and an attitude sensing method, and in particular techniques for determining an attitude in three-dimensional space of a reference axis of a package with which the attitude sensing device is associated. The attitude sensing device comprises an electromechanical sensor having a rotatable shaft operable to rotate about its axis to any shaft angle and a mass coupled to the shaft. The mass causes the shaft to rotate as the mass adopts a gravity-induced position. The electromechanical sensor is operable to provide an electrical signal in dependence on the shaft angle. The attitude of the reference axis being derivable from the electrical signal. By this approach, a simple arrangement is provided by which the attitude of the reference axis may easily be determined over the required operating range.

Abstract: Hand tool (1) including a pair of retainer clips (7A,7B) for securing a cylindrical level vial (6) in a suitable recess (3), and method of assembly therefor.

Abstract: A device for measuring and marking lines and points on a steel I-beam includes a rib for contacting the outside of an I-beam flange along a line opposite the center of the beam web, a measuring blade that rests on the beam web and measures distances from the outside of the flange, and a bridge for connecting the measuring blade to the rib in a way in which the measuring blade is held perpendicular to the flange. The device marks I-beams faster and more accurately that was possible using prior art tools and techniques.

Abstract: A measuring apparatus includes at least one sensor which is provided on a measuring frame, which can be positioned opposite moving clothing or a device. The devices being, for example, a roll, of a machine for producing and/or treating a material web, in particular a paper or board web. The measuring frame is pressed against the clothing or device by at least one pivoting lever and is connected to the pivoting lever by a cardan joint.

Abstract: A portable coordinate measurement machine comprises an articulated arm having jointed arm segments. The arm is progressively tapered from the base to the probe and preferably the jointed arm segments include tapered and/or threaded ends.

Abstract: A lighted fish measurement device. The apparatus comprises a connection to an outside power source, a backlight source, and circuitry to connect the outside power source to the backlight source. A generally clear rule face including graduations in American Standard and Metric measurements. A semi-transparent colored overlay, variable in length, is mountable over the backlit rule face highlighting user specific graduation lengths. A rugged waterproof enclosure, with a positive stop at the beginning of the rule and a means to secure the lighted fish measurement device to a fishing vessel.

Abstract: A dryer (10) is disclosed for drying hard floor surfaces. The fan (18) is integrated with a bucket (32) and wringer (30) forming a unitary structure. The unit contains an onboard power supply and charging system. The unit further incorporates a platform (15) to secure bucket (30). Still further the device is fitted with a brake (20) to secure the unit in place during operation and wheels (12) for easy transportation.

Abstract: Device and process for producing and treating a fibrous web. The device includes a moistening unit structured and arranged to simultaneously influence a cross machine moisture profile of the web and the curl of the web independently of each other. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A method and apparatus includes a filter positioned with a sample flow path such that it restricts or prevents the passage of foreign materials, liquids or debris into a device such that, if not filtered, the elements harm the operational ability of the device.

Abstract: A system for reclaiming effluent from a freeze drying process has at least one condenser apparatus used during a freeze-drying cycle to collect effluent from material being freeze-dried, and a recovery reservoir positioned for collecting material from the condenser apparatus. The system is characterized in that ice crystals formed from the effluent are removed from the condenser after the freeze drying cycle into recovery reservoir to be re-used. Product systems include both freeze-dried material and the effluent collected during freeze drying.

Abstract: The present invention is direct to a method and apparatus for removing moisture from a test sample. A removable drying agent container having a plurality of drying agent particles is employed with a drying member so that the drying agent can be readily installed in and removed from the drying member.

Abstract: A circulation duct circulates dry air, which has been jetted to a photosensitive material, in a dryer. A temperature sensor is disposed near an entry of the circulation duct to detect a temperature of the circulation air. A controller obtains temperature information of the circulation air from the temperature sensor. On the basis of the temperature information, a heater is controlled to adjust a temperature of the dry air. When the temperature of the circulation air decreases, the temperature decline is simultaneously detected to raise the temperature of the dry air. Thus, the temperature of the dry air is fixedly kept, and dry processing of the photosensitive material becomes stable. Further, a drying speed is prevented from lowering.

Abstract: A weight-bearing support insole with four varying degrees of arch for application in any shoe or boot, in which the upper portion is biomechanically shaped to support the medial longitudinal arch, the lateral longitudinal arch, the transverse (metatarsal) arch, and the heel cup. This insole focuses on the highest and most dynamic arch, the medial arch, by creating four unique degrees of medial arch support that configures cooperatively to low, medium, high, and extreme degrees of individual user's arch needs, which will distribute weight-generated forces into a neutral plantigrade position. Supporting the neutral position will obtain maximum balance and weight distribution by dispersing the weight-bearing forces over the greatest area possible to relieve the seven primary pressure points (or points of contact) in the foot.

Abstract: A panel formed by a reinforced elastomer material that regulates and dissipates vibration.

Abstract: A composite reinforced toecap for a shoe includes multiple composite fiber reinforcement layers and a larger fiber layer laminated between and extending out from the composite fiber reinforcement layers. The fiber layer is made of continuos-strands. The composite fiber reinforcement layers are made of fiber-reinforced-plastic composite materials, are laminated on the fiber layer to form a pre-product toecap. A bonding coating is applied to the fiber layer that extends beyond the composite fiber reinforcement layer to form a binding. The pre-product is cured and has a binding that can be sewn to the sole, upper or tongue of a shoe.

Abstract: An article of footwear including a sole and an upper with an exterior and interior surface, and a bladder which comprises at least one of the exterior or interior surfaces. The bladder comprising sheets of polyurethane attached together via welding. The bladder includes a medial compartment and a lateral compartment attached to each other under the foot of the wearer. The article of footwear also includes a inflation mechanism for selectively introducing air to the chambers. The inflation mechanism is located under the foot of the wearer to be activated by the normal action of the wearer.

Abstract: A ski boot insert is disclosed for use in imparting an enhanced sense of balance and for promoting and developing coordination in making downhill skiing maneuvers. The insert comprises a base member having a first rigid platform surface and a second compressible platform surface. The rigid platform surface and compressible platform surface are formed in a side-by-side fashion extending along the length of the insert. The rigid platform surface is preferably formed to be positioned beneath the outwardly facing portion of the underside of the skier's foot whereas the compressible side is formed to be positioned under the inwardly facing portion of the skier's foot. The insert may be integrated into new ski boot fabrication or may otherwise be formed for incorporation into an existing ski boot.

Abstract: A cover for a lace-up football boot has a continuous, elastically expandable sleeve (1). The sleeve is, in use, stretched around the boot so that the latter extends through the sleeve with the toe of the boot protruding from the end of the sleeve, and that the underside of the sleeve engages the portion of the underside of the boot in a region between the heal and the toe (i.e. under the arch of the foot). This engagement between the sleeve and the boot is sufficient to hold the sleeve in position on the boot in use, the sleeve also covering the bootlaces to prevent the latter from untying. At least part of the cover may also be transparent so as to reveal ornamental features or indicia on the boot.

Abstract: A device and method is provided for rescuing a person trapped in engulfing material at an engulfment site. A reduction tool is used to loosen the engulfing material in order to free or facilitate freeing a buried or partially buried victim. The loosened engulfing material is subsequently removed from the engulfment site by vacuum excavation. Shoring equipment may be used to stabilize the excavation site prior to commencement of soil reduction and soil removal procedures. The excavation site may include a sump area to receive loosened engulfing material discharged by the reduction tool from the excavation site. The loosened engulfing material in the sump area may also be removed with vacuum excavation techniques.

Abstract: A plow mounting assembly is provided for removably attaching a plow blade to the front end of a vehicle. The plow mounting assembly includes a frame assembly semi-permanently connected to a front end of an associated vehicle. A blade assembly includes a plow blade and a grasping assembly in a closed position removably connected to the frame assembly.

Abstract: A snow thrower including a rotating arched wall on which is disposed a gear wheel operated by a motor making fall downwards the arched wall in moving forward or in the opposite direction for clearing snow by pushing it inside the opening of the rotating arched wall until that the snow is catched by an unidirectional endless screw that propels the snow towards a fan for blowing it through a discharge chute.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a push-type, manual snowplowing device with a wooden blade of adequate size and structure to efficiently remove snowfalls of four and one-half inches or less. The invention encompasses a manual snowplowing device avoiding the physical strain associated with shoveling while remaining cost effective, relatively maintenance free, and amenable to storage and user assembly.

Abstract: In a device for coupling a tooth onto an adaptor nose with a key, the tooth includes a skirt shrouding the adapter nose beyond the key passage zone and having a configuration connected to a return wall, comprising a bordering ridge. The wall is provided in the width of the skirt and corresponds to the passage and positioning of the key. Proximate the ends of the wall, and in the thickness of the skirt, are provided passage openings for the key devoid of abutting function in operation and ensuring a guiding and stopping function only when the key is inserted or removed. The key comprises two components transversely mobile relative to each other.

Abstract: A receptacle with compartmented peripheral walls for displaying personalized and changeable graphics is disclosed. The receptacle has an inner cylinder and a transparent outer cylinder which are spaced apart by vertical spacers which divide the cavity between the cylinders into compartments, each of which houses a removable sheet of graphic material. In a preferred embodiment, each compartment is sized to hold a standard, stock sized paper, such as 8½?×11?, so the graphics may be quickly and easily changed. Graphic sheet access means are also provided, whereby a user can conveniently change the graphic sheets without having to use a tool or turn the receptacle upside down.

Abstract: A main unit includes a slider and a guide groove. A display panel includes a slider engaging portion coupled to the slider being guided by the slider and a guide-groove engaging portion slidably engaged with the guide groove being guided by the guide-groove so that the display panel can be inclined. A pressing lever presses the guide-groove engaging portion with resilient force of a resilient member. The guide-groove includes a parallel groove formed in parallel with a direction of movement of the slider; and a curved groove having a width narrower than that of the parallel groove and being connected to the parallel groove. The guide-groove engaging portion moves in the parallel groove by the movement of the slider and a pressing force of the pressing lever.

Abstract: An apparatus for replacing a selected sign on a web with a replacement sign is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first replacement roller for storing the replacement sign and a second replacement roller for receiving the selected sign. The second replacement roller is capable of moving the web to remove the selected sign and to insert the replacement sign. A method of replacing a selected sign on a web with a replacement sign is also disclosed.

Abstract: A method for preparing a surface of a substrate such as a polymer, glass, and the like to receive one or more images applied thereto. The method may include selecting a substrate having a surface, abrading a portion of the surface, and printing an image comprising a graphic, text, or some combination thereof on the abraded surface. The substrate may be masked to protect selected areas from abrasion. Additionally, if necessary, the substrate may be cleaned after the abrasion to improve the adherence of the image to the abraded surface.

Abstract: An exit device includes an electroluminescent exit sign assembly, preferably mounted on a push rail actuator of the exit device. An electroluminescent illuminator, an opaque material and a transparent protective cover form the electroluminescent sign assembly. The push rail actuator operates a latch mechanism and opens an associated exit door when pressure is applied. An inverter may be located within the exit device to power the electroluminescent illuminator with an AC or voltage. The electroluminescent sign assembly is preferably removable for repair or replacement without removing the exit device from the exit door and is located within a surface cavity in an electrically insulating touchpad on the exit device actuator. Additional transparent nonconductive material surrounds the electroluminescent material to provide further electrical insulation.

Abstract: An attachment for a racing sulky is provided having a display plate upon which advertisement or other material may be placed for exhibit to the viewers of a race. In one arrangement the display plate is mounted to the hub of the spoke of the sulky wheel by a bearing and it includes a counterweight to maintain it in an upright position when the wheel rotates. In a second arrangement, the plate is supported by a U shaped bracket which extends above the sulky wheel.

Abstract: A modular pedestal sign or suspended sign is formed as a hollow border defined by upper, lower and opposite side hollow members collectively setting-off an inboard signage area. The upper and lower hollow members are preferably each formed by identically hollow bodies which are snap-secured together and each also defines a pair of projecting legs which are in internal telescopic relationship to the hollow side members. A polymeric/copolymeric synthetic thermoplastic foam material is in situ molded in intimate relationship to interior surfaces of the border to rigidify the assembled components, though snap fasteners may be utilized. Additional signage areas can be formed utilizing hollow divider members having oppositely directed pairs of legs.

Abstract: A novelty sticker that may be placed on a button so as to symbolize an unintended purpose for the button is disclosed. Preferably, the button is a car dashboard button, and more particularly the button is a “dummy” car dashboard button. The novelty design may symbolize, for example, oil slick, ejection seat, or smoke screen. Methods and apparatus are also disclosed.

Abstract: A label for a media disk storage device having more than one pocket moveably attached to a binder in a stacked arrangement includes an insertion card insertable within the pocket and an identifier tab extending from the insertion card to a position beyond an edge of the pocket when the insertion card is inserted in the pocket.

Abstract: A method of advertising and generating advertising business is provided. The method includes the step of providing a display unit for displaying a plurality of display objects, such as business cards. Members of the public may leave their own business cards in the display unit for advertising their own product or service. Next a display manager collects lead information about the member of the public or his or or organization that was voluntarily left by members of the public in the display unit. Next the display manager contacts the potential client based on information left in said display unit by the potential client. The invention also includes a display unit for displaying business cards. The display unit includes a transparent mounting plate, a plurality of business card holders, and a graphic. Horizontally adjacent business card holders, each capable of holding a stack of business cards, are spaced from each other with sufficient spacing so that the graphic can be seen in the spacing.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include moving bird decoy apparatus and related methods that address a bird decoy whose wings may be moved to simulate wing stretching motions exhibited by birds such as geese and ducks. An automated wing motion element together with a power source may be capable of moving decoy wings to simulate wing stretching motions.

Abstract: A fishing pole holder which allows fishermen and fisherwomen to maintain the ideal fishing line angle while fishing without having to hold his or her fishing pole. The fishing pole holder has a holder (1) that is cylindrically shaped and hollow for the acceptance of a handle of a fishing pole (4). A cylindrically shaped and hollow base pole (2) can be fixably or removably attached to the holder (1) at a ninety degree angle. The base pole (2) has a pointed end (3) to allow easy insertion into a ground (5). To use the fishing pole holder, the user simply takes the holder and inserts the pointed end (3) of the base pole (2) into the ground (5) at an angle so that the fishing pole holder is leaning away from the water. The user then places the handle of his or her fishing pole (4) into the holder (1).

Abstract: An electronic animal trap with a CPU-controlled, rearming, high voltage output circuit for trapping and exterminating pests. The high-voltage output circuit is connected to a pair of killing plates which are activated with a high-voltage pulse train for a period of time constituting a killing cycle when a known impedance is sensed across the plates. If, upon conclusion of the killing cycle, the impedance remains across the plates, the circuit activates a visual indicator to alert a user that the trap contains a dead mouse. However, if the impedance increases to that of an open circuit, likely meaning the animal has escaped, the circuit automatically rearms itself and no visual indicator is initiated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for controlling insects (1; 7; 10), which is approximately fruit-shaped and which has a three-dimensional structure (2) with open spaces (4) and with a plurality of surfaces (3) within the said structure, which surfaces can be directly contacted by insects from outside the structure (2).

Abstract: A device and method for controlling a population of burrowing rodents including a remote control panel having a welding torch. The welding torch includes a gas flow valve. A pair of hoses are connected between the welding torch, a bottle of oxygen and a bottle of fuel gas. Another hose having a length greater than 5 feet is connected to a downstream end of the gas flow valve and extends and connects to an injector. An ignition wire extends between an ignition switch and the injector. The hose connecting the welding torch and the injector may be twenty-five feet long. In operation, an operator places a fire cone end of the injector in a hole connected to a tunnel system and then steps back to the remote control panel positioned at a location remote to the fire cone to operate gas flow and ignition of gas in the tunnel.

Abstract: A method for delivering a pesticide adjacent a foundation of a structure is provided. The method includes injecting the pesticide into a tubular conduit positioned proximate to the foundation of the structure. The pesticide is injected into the tubular conduit at a rate such that the internal pressure of the tubular conduit remains below a threshold pressure of the tubular conduit until the tubular conduit is substantially filled with the pesticide thereby preventing the pesticide from being discharged through pores of the tubular conduit as the tubular conduit is being filled with the pesticide.

Abstract: Mixed alcohol formulas can be used as a fuel additive in gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, aviation gasoline, heating oil, bunker oil, coal, petroleum coke or as a neat fuel in and of itself. The mixed alcohols formulations can contain C1-C5 alcohols, or in the alternative, C1-C8 alcohols or higher C1-C10 alcohols in order to boost energy content. The C1-C5 mixed alcohols contain more ethanol than methanol with declining amounts of propanol, butanol and pentanol. C1-C8 mixed alcohols contain the same, with declining amounts of hexanol, heptanol and octanol. C1-C10 mixed alcohols contain the same, with declining amounts of nananol and decanol. Synthetically produced mixed alcohol formulas feature higher octane and energy densities than either MTBE or fermented grain ethanol; more stable Reid Vapor Pressure blending characteristics; and increased soluablizing effects on condensate water. The primary benefits of mixed alcohols are increased combustion efficiencies, reduced emissions profiles and low production costs.

Abstract: A fuel composition containing a gas oil base fuel and a C4-8 alkyl levulinate. The alkyl levulinate is selected for the purpose of ensuring a phase separation temperature of said fuel composition below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A sunshade includes a first net body, a second net body, and a curtain body. The first net body includes a first connecting portion, a first shading portion, and a first heat-dissipating portion. The first shading portion includes weft yarns and warp yarns interlaced with the weft yarns. The first heat-dissipating portion includes weft yarns. The second net body includes a second connecting portion, a second shading portion, and a second heat-dissipating portion. The second shading portion includes weft yarns and warp yarns interlaced with the weft yarns of the second shading portion. The second heat-dissipating portion includes weft yarns. The curtain body includes a third connecting portion and a third heat-dissipating portion connected to the third connecting portion. The third heat-dissipating portion includes weft yarns. The first, second and third connecting portions are connected together.

Abstract: A container adapted for carrying long stemmed flowers includes a sheet of inherently flexible material which defines a receptacle having an aperture at its top section facilitating the insertion or removal of the flowers and a wall enveloping the flowers when they are placed in the receptacle and which tapers from top to bottom. The bottom region is of sufficiently small cross-section in order to retain the flowers when they are placed in the receptacle. The wall is adapted to receive—or itself incorporating—one or more shoulder straps long enough to enable a user of the container to carry it, in use, on his or her shoulder and/or generally diagonally across his or her back.

Abstract: A method for providing a decorative cover for a floral grouping wherein the decorative cover is provided with a card holder assembly for securing a card to the decorative cover, and a design indicia bearing portion which extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of the decorative cover. The decorative cover is formed from a sheet of material having a design indicia, the sheet of material having an opening extending therethrough wherein the opening is offset from a central portion of the sheet of material in a direction generally away from the indicia bearing portion of the sheet of material.

Abstract: An improved plant support with a plurality of upright members that form corners of a polygonal shape. The upright members are interconnected by a plurality of individualized legs that are removably connected to upright members to form a stand alone plant support structure. The legs have elongate bodies terminating in a pair of adjustable flanges. The flanges may include a hinge or a flange end cap connecting the flange to the elongate body. A plant support matrix may be formed from a plurality of individual plant supports. The plant supports may be in abutting relation or interconnected to form the matrix.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and raised bed for producing plant material in a container in the bed.

Abstract: A vase made of a thin foldable material and having a wall, an upper opening and a lower bottom, provided with a foot, with the vase being formed by a first plane unfolding by folding along fold lines, with the first plane unfolding designed with a central panel having essentially the same configuration as the bottom of the vase and defined by a first set of fold lines, a number of radial panels defined by a second set of fold lines and extending outwardly from the first fold lines, and a number of edge panels issuing from the second fold lines. The vase has a bottom formed by folding the bottom panels along the fold lines. The bottom is, by gluing, joined to a central panel of the first plane unfolding to secure the foot on the vase. The foot parts are provided by the radial panels and the edge panels folded up around the side panels or third fold lines of the vase. The vase is especially applicable as packaging during transport of a flower bouquet.

Abstract: A retainer is provided to prevent a conventional flower pot, which is supported upon the ground and which may be tipped over by wind forces or other lateral forces. The retainer is formed of an elongated, thin metal wire bent into an elongated stem portion with a downwardly opening hook on one end. The hook is engaged over the upper edge portion or rim of the pot with the stem extending downwardly along the side of the pot and into the ground beneath the pot. The stem is curved along its length so that when the retainer is manually attached to the pot, the stem enters the ground adjacent the bottom edge of the pot and moves underneath the pot bottom radially inwardly from the wall of the pot. The wire may be coated with a roughening paint-like material so as to increase the frictional grip between the stem and the ground.