Abstract: An ironing board that folds in half to occupy only about one half its extended length to facilitate packaging and storage. An iron rest can be slid to latch the folded front and rear sections of the board. The board has front and rear legs allowing it to be set up on top of a table. The rear legs incorporate clamp mechanisms that allow the ironing board to be clamped onto a table edge so that clothing that is being pressed can hang freely from the edges of the ironing board without bunching up on the table top.

Abstract: The reinforced file folder has a paper substrate which is reinforced with a breathable film having desirable properties with respect to wear. Preferably, the film is a cellulous based material adhered to the paper substrate in a manner that renders the product easily recycled. The cellulose film with a matte finished upper surface provides strong adhesion with file folder labels. The film preferably covers most of the outer surface of the front and back panels with the film applied either side of the labeling tab.

Abstract: A plant tag includes a fold-out brochure attached to one surface of the tag by a transparent polymeric film to protectively cover the folded paper brochure underlying the clear polymeric film. The film has a peelable releasable adhesive edge to allow access to the brochure. The brochure, in one embodiment, is a color printed, multiple panel accordion folded paper brochure having information imprinted on opposite sides which relates to the plant with which the tag is associated on one side and on an opposite side, planting information regarding the use of the plant with complementary plants in a garden. The brochure and protective film can also be attached to a plant pot.

Abstract: A frame including a first sheet member having a transparent top wall portion with an inner top wall surface and an outer top wall surface defined by rectilinear connected edges and a top side wall portion aligned with each of the rectilinear connected edges other than a particular one thereof. Also included is a second sheet member having a bottom wall portion with an inner bottom wall surface and an outer bottom wall surface defined by rectilinear joined edges extending parallel to the connected edges, and a bottom sidewall portion extending outwardly from said inner bottom wall surface and disposed parallel to and inwardly laterally adjacent to each of the top side wall portions so as to form between the inner top wall surface and the inner bottom wall surface a closed cavity accessible through an opening adjacent to the particular connected edge.

Abstract: An illuminated display apparatus comprising a frame member and a housing for containing a three-dimensional object is disclosed. The illuminated display apparatus further includes a light source mounted within the housing for illuminating the object contained within the housing of the apparatus. It is noted that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to ascertain quickly the subject matter of the technical disclosure and is not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.

Abstract: Provided is an artificial fishing lure with a hollow body. The body has within it, a light source and a bay for receiving a replaceable battery cartridge. The battery cartridge comprises a battery holder that serves to both retain the battery and maintain an effective seal with the lure body. When the cartridge is removed, the battery comes with it making replacement of the battery feasible.

Abstract: A rod holder for use when trolling from a fishing vessel, the rod holder having a tubular support member slidably receivable within the gunwale rod holder of the boat, the lower end of the support member being notched so as to engage in locking relationship with a cross bar at the lower end of the gunwale rod holder, the support member having articulating mounted thereon, a generally cylindrical rod holder rotatable from a generally horizontal, trolling orientation to a generally vertical orientation for ease of removal of the fishing rod from the generally cylindrical fishing rod holder when a strike has occurred. The generally cylindrical rod holder is limited in its articulation by means of a rocker arm which prevents the rod holder from rotating below the horizontal.

Abstract: An improved line guide for fishing rods includes a circular ring at one end. The perimeter of the circular ring has two opposite sides extended respectively downwards to form a vertical section. The vertical section has a distal end extended slightly outwards and downwards and bent inwards to become narrower to form an inclined conical section with a horizontal plane at one end. The two horizontal planes are symmetrical and joined juxtaposed to form a flat and conical fastening section. The circular ring further has a lower side extended downwards to form an arrow-shaped fastening section. The inclined conical section has a vertical surface to form surface contact with a fishing line. The inclined conical section can increase the strength of the line guide and prevent the line guide from deforming when subject to stress or impact from external forces.

Abstract: Flexible fishing lure tails and appendages having extending or projecting shoulder surfaces to facilitate a simulated swimming action by the drag and eddy principle of water flow. One or more shoulders are provided in the surfaces of the flexible fishing lure tails to facilitate the swimming action as the lure to which the tail or appendage is attached is retrieved through a water body. This swimming action due to the vibration of the tail and appendage segment and the body of the fishing lure is unique and simulates live lizards, worms, crawfish, grubs, minnows and the like, a primary characteristic that attracts fish. The tail and appendage segments can be removably or permanently fixed to both hard and soft body lures or molded in combination with a lure body of selected length, size, color and plastic composition characteristics to facilitate the desired swimming action and vibration and thus the attraction to game fish of every variety.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention involves a fishing lure having a frame, a body formed around the frame with a head end and a tail end, and a weight connected to the frame and formed inside the body. A plurality of appendages extends from the head end. The tail end includes an series of notches arrayed to work in concert to make the tail end flap. A plurality of hooks are attached to the frame, each of the hooks has an end designed to protrude from the body. An eyelet is connected to the frame and protrudes from the body.

Abstract: A fish catching system includes a decapod-shaped lure having a body and a tail. The fish catching system further includes a sleeve or weight with an aperture therethrough coupled with the tail to provide an aperture at the tail thereof. A fishing line passes through the sleeve or the aperture of the weight, which secures the fishing line at the tail. The fishing line further attaches to a hook secured to the body of the lure, thereby placing the lure in a first position. Pulling the fishing line facilitates movement of the tail underneath the body to place the lure in a second position, and releasing the fishing line returns the tail to the first position of the lure.

Abstract: A float device which provides an on-demand change in tacking or planing direction without having to retrieve the float or adjust the float configuration. The float utilizes a float body and at least two longitudinal keel members oppositely disposed on the float body. In a first orientation, the first keel is submerged and the second keel is in the air and the float tacks in the first keel direction. A sharp pull on a tether line connected to the float causes the float body to roll 180 degrees such that second keel is submerged and the first keel is in the air and the float tacks in the second keel direction.

Abstract: A non-metallic fishing leader or line having a vulnerable length of the leader or line protected by, and in close proximity with, an interior surface of one or more, separate protective item(s) is disclosed and a method of making the protected leader or line. The leader or line is protected by one or more lengths of flexible plastic tubing, or by a plurality of beads. Also disclosed are some fishing rigs using this type of leader. The protected fishing leader or line has good “feel” and “bait action” compared to existing metal or tapered leaders.

Abstract: A live animal trap is described that uses a bucket as an animal container. A trap assembly is attached to the open end of the bucket. The trap assembly has a frame with a pivotally mounted door that is released when a food reservoir is moved towards the open end of the bucket.

Abstract: An apparatus for trapping flying insects that is particularly configured for use in agricultural areas such as orchards and fields to allow inspection and elimination of such insects. The apparatus has an elongated vertical member or pole configured to mount into the ground or cooperate with a separate member mounted into the ground. An insect attracting light source and an insect immobilizing element are mounted to the pole. The light is provided by one or more light bulbs. The insect immobilizing element comprises a mesh screen panel covered with a sticky substance to provide an adhesive surface. A rechargeable battery is connected to the light source. A solar recharge system having a solar panel mounted to the top of the pole recharges the battery. For ease of handling and installation, the pole can be provided in multiple interconnecting sections. A photosensitive element controls the on/off function of the light source.

Abstract: A composition is disclosed that comprises the reaction product of an acidic organic compound, a boron compound, and a basic organic compound. The composition is useful as a detergent additive for lubricants and hydrocarbon fuels.

Abstract: A method for preventing combustion chamber deposits from causing start-failures in an internal combustion engine comprises operating the engine with a fuel composition that contains a normally liquid fuel and a nitrogen-containing detergent that includes a polyetheramine; a Mannich reaction product of a hydrocarbyl-substituted phenol, an aldehyde and an amine; or a mixture there. The method is effective in preventing start-failures in multi-valve, low friction, spark-ignited engines.

Abstract: The use of an effective concentration of a hydrocarbyl amine wherein the hydrocarbyl moiety has a number average molecular weight in the range 140 to 255 as an additive in an unleaded gasoline composition is provided containing a major proportion of a gasoline suitable for use in a spark ignition engine, for reducing injector nozzle fouling in a direct injection spark ignition engine. A method of operating a direct injection spark ignition engine is also provided.

Abstract: A fuel composition contains (a) a medium substantially free of to free of sulphur; (b) a detergent/dispersant additive; and (c) a liquid fuel where the medium substantially free of to free of sulphur is an aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent, and where the aliphatic hydrocarbon solvent is present from at least about 50 wt % to about 100 wt % of the total amount of the medium. The fuel composition is prepared by a process and is useful in a process, where the fuel composition includes a medium that is a hydrocarbon or a nonhydrocarbon or a mixture thereof, to increase the efficiency of an exhaust after-treatment device of an internal combustion engine.

Abstract: A static mixer includes a plurality of mixing elements disposed parallel to each other and arrayed annularly to define an inner cylindrical space surrounded by these mixing elements. Each mixing element has stationary vanes disposed in a circular passage. A blower supplying the air to the static mixer is entirely or partly accommodated and fixed in the inner cylindrical space of the static mixer. The static mixer and the blower are disposed parallel to each other. The overall length of the fuel mixture generating apparatus can be shortened.

Abstract: Frost covers are described that define an enclosure for an individual plant or group of plants to protect the sides and lower portions of the plants as well as their tops from frost damage. Each cover is shaped to envelop a single plant or group of plants and is provided with a retaining mechanism, such as an elastic band or drawstring, which allows the frost cover to be secured to the plant or group of plants against winds. The covers are inexpensive, reusable, disposable, and may be formed into a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate a wide variety of sizes of plants and groups of plants. The frost covers are fashioned from a semi-transparent, air-permeable and moisture permeable membrane that permits some sunlight and water to pass through the membrane while causing frost to form atop the membrane rather than on the covered plant.

Abstract: A mulch shield for surrounding a trunk or stem of a plant that may include a body having a bendable wall member, and a lower flange that is coupled to the body and which extends therefrom in a radially outward direction. A slit may be formed through both the wall member and the lower flange that permits the body to be positioned in a first, generally C-shaped condition that is adapted to permit the mulch shield to be placed about the trunk or stem of the plant, and a second condition in which the wall member encircles the trunk or stem of the plant. A closure may be employed to maintain the body in the second condition.

Abstract: A tree shelter includes a plurality of wooden stakes and a biodegradable yarn securing the wooden stakes in a side-by-side arrangement. The tree shelter is sized to encircle a tree to protect the tree from foraging animals.

Abstract: A method of controlling the movement of biosolids before, during, and after land application. This method aids in management of the problematic movement (i.e., runoff and leaching) of biosolids' components that have been shown to be harmful to human and/or environmental health through both direct and indirect routes of exposure. This method requires that water-soluble polyacrylamide(s) (WSPAM) be combined with the biosolids prior to land exposure.

Abstract: A decorative floral assembly comprising a floral holding material, a floral grouping supported by the floral holding material, and a decorative sheet of material. The floral holding material is constructed of a material capable of supporting the floral grouping without a pot means. The decorative sheet of material is extended about a portion of the floral holding material and a crimped portion is formed in the decorative sheet of material with the crimped portion cooperating to hold the decorative sheet of material about the floral holding material to provide a decorative covering.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the generation of hydrogen, comprising; (a) a heated steam reformation stage, with a reformer catalyst for the conversion of gaseous or vaporizable hydrocarbons and water into hydrogen, carbon monoxide and further reformation products; (b) at least one stage, arranged after the steam reformation stage, for the catalytic conversion of the mixture of hydrogen, carbon monoxide and excess steam emanating from the steam reformation stage (shift step); and (c) a fine purification stage after the conversion stages for the catalytic reduction of the residual carbon monoxide content in the conversion products. The invention is characterized in that the conversion stages and the fine purification stage are each embodied as hollow bodies with an annular chamber for housing the corresponding catalyst.

Abstract: A fuel reformer housing container includes a base having an upper surface including a concave portion for housing a fuel reformer for generating reformed gas including hydrogen gas from fuel therein; a lid attached to the upper surface of the base so as to cover the concave portion; a supply pipe for supplying fuel to the fuel reformer, the supply pipe piercing the base so that a front end thereof is joined to the fuel reformer, and holding the fuel reformer in a space between the lid and a bottom surface of the concave portion; and a discharge pipe for discharging the reformed gas, the discharge pipe piercing the base so that a front end thereof is joined to the fuel reformer, and holding the fuel reformer in a space between the lid and the bottom surface of the concave portion. The base and the lid have cavities formed therein.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for producing hydrogen are provided. The methods and apparatus utilize reforming catalysts in order to produce hydrogen gas. The reforming catalysts may be platinum group metals on a support material, and they may be located in a reforming reaction zone of a primary reactor. The support material may an oxidic support having a ceria zirconia promoter. The support material may be an oxidic support and a neodymium stabilizer. The support material may also be an oxidic support material and at least one Group IA, Group IIA, manganese, or iron metal promoter. The primary reactor may have a first and second reforming reaction zones. Upstream reforming catalysts located in the first reforming reaction zone may be selected to perform optimally under the conditions in the first reforming reaction zone. Downstream reforming catalysts located in the second reforming reaction zone may be selected to perform optimally under the conditions in the second reforming reaction zone.

Abstract: A compact hydrogen generator for use with fuel cells and other applications includes a hydrogen membrane reactor having a combustion chamber and a reaction chamber. The two chambers are have a fluid connection and a heat exchange relationship with one another. The hydrogen generation apparatus also includes a fuel supply, a fuel supply line for transporting fuel from the fuel supply to the reaction chamber, an oxygen supply, an oxygen supply line for transporting oxygen form the oxygen supply to the combustion chamber, as well as a tail gas supply line for transporting tail gas supply line for transporting tail gases form the reaction chamber, a combustion by-product line for transporting combustion by-products for the combustion chamber, and a reaction product line for transporting hydrogen from the reaction chamber.

Abstract: The reaction of carbon monoxide with steam over an alkali-modified ruthenium-on-zirconia catalyst has been found to yield surprisingly high yields of hydrogen gas at relatively low temperatures. Catalyst structures, reactors, hydrogen production systems, and methods for producing hydrogen utilizing the alkali-modified ruthenium-on-zirconia catalyst are described. Methods of making catalysts are also described.

Abstract: Method for gasifying organic material in a reactor (2) in which particles (26) are provided, made of a material with a large thermal capacity, characterised in that this method consists of gasifying the organic material by means of heating in a gasification chamber (17) in the reactor (2); of letting a gas flow through the reactor (2), from an inlet (7) to an outlet (8); of letting the particles (26) circulate through the reactor (2), in counterflow with the above-mentioned gas; and of collecting the gasified organic material at the above-mentioned outlet (8).

Abstract: A control system for switching an electric operation to a manual operation of a door opener comprises: a housing 11, including a power unit 12 driving a shaft 120 electrically and transmitting the power to an output shaft 16; a braking device 13, used for braking the shaft 120 and releasing the shaft 120; a pull-chain disk device 15 allowed for exerting an external force via a pull chain 152 to rotate the shaft 120; a clutch device 18, disposed between the shaft 120 and the pull-chain disk device 15, used for unidirectionally rotating the shaft 120 controllably when the pull-chain disk device is rotated by the external force; a protective device 17 used for cutting off a circuit of a door opener 10? in an abnormal mode; and a driven disk 158 interlocked with the clutch device 18 so as to swing by an angle for actuating the protective device 17 to switch.

Abstract: A slide block is provided for slideably and pivotally mounting a window sash to a side member of a window frame having a vertical window jamb channel. The slide block includes a body, the body defining a sash pivot-receiving aperture. A sash pivot retainer spring is integrally formed with the body and is positionable between a first position obstructing removal of a sash pivot when the sash pivot is disposed in the aperture and a second position permitting removal of the sash pivot.

Abstract: Structure for maintaining a sliding window sash at an intended position with respect to a frame within which the sash moves. The sash is retained at a position along an axis generally perpendicular to a plane defined by the window frame. A balance tube assembly includes an elongate trough which extends generally parallel to a direction of intended sliding movement of the sash. A blade is mounted within a cavity in the sash and is disposed for pivotal movement between a first position, wherein the blade is retracted within an outwardly facing surface of the sash, and a second position, wherein the blade is extended through the outwardly facing surface of the sash into the trough.

Abstract: Door module for vehicles, particularly incorporating an arm-type window winder unit, that consists of an assembly formed by the panel (1) and the support (8) that supports the window winder unit, and that also makes it possible to incorporate all the components capable of being assembled in the door shell with the exception of the window glass, so that later either the entire assembly is capable of being removed or otherwise the part connected to the panel, independently of the mechanical elements directly fixed onto the door, all while at the same time respecting the structural integrity of the door. One or more turrets, which form part of the panel itself, are situated between the panel and the support, and enable the fast assembly and removal of the panel, with the possibility of leaving the window winder unit connected to the door shell.

Abstract: An electric curtain device of the present invention includes a pair of running members and a pair of chargers arranged at opposed ends of a curtain rail. The running members are movable along the curtain rail and support a pair of curtains, respectively, in a suspended state. Each of the running members includes a supersonic motor and is moved along the curtain rail when actuated by a supersonic motor. Further, each running member has a battery and a driver. The electric curtain device is relatively easy to handle. Further, the appearance of the device is improved without requiring machining of the curtain rail.

Abstract: An abrasive composition is provided based on the following: an abrasive, preferably feldspar ??7-59% a clay, preferably smectite clay ??3-7% water ??37-64% an organic solvent, such as kerosene ??3-20%, and additionally, preferably contains calcium carbonate ??20-30%, and a surfactant 0.01-1%. The composition may have particles of up to 100 ?m, and preferably average particle size diameter of 30-45 ?m.

Abstract: A deflector shield apparatus for rain gutters to prevent leaf and similar debris from entering the trough portion of the gutter. The deflector shield apparatus includes means for mounting the deflector to the gutter and associated building structure to provide improved function of the gutter system and easy installation. The deflector shield comprises a rigid sheet material having a rear portion adapted to be mounted under the outermost row of roof shingles, a central portion extending outward over the gutter, and a forward portion provided with a downturned curve forming a nose disposed over the front lip of the gutter and a reverse curved terminal and extending rearwardly over the trough portion of the gutter. Included in the apparatus is a modified gutter support strap having opposing ends in engagement with the front and rear wall of the gutter and means to connect the rear wall of the gutter to the associated building wall.

Abstract: A guard and associated method for rain gutters includes a cap or deflector extending over a gutter of the type having a trough-shaped interior, a rear wall extending along a roof fascia, and a front lip with a channel and an end flange. A mounting bracket has a rear portion abutting the rear wall of the gutter, an upper portion supporting the deflector, and a front portion with a hook-shaped nose. The mounting bracket nose is configured for insertion under the end flange of the gutter, such that the mounting bracket is rotated rearwardly along a generally vertical arc about the nose toward the rear wall of the gutter, and shifted laterally into a skewed orientation within the gutter interior.

Abstract: A method of levelling the upper surface of a perforated floor panel relative the upper surface of another panel, each said panel having spaced upper and lower surfaces having different depths, said lower surfaces of said panels supported by pedestal means comprising the steps of selecting different thicknesses of said upper and lower surfaces of said perforated floor panel relative said other panel; selecting a first layer of a first thickness on said upper surface of said perforated floor panel and a second layer of a second thickness on said upper surface of said upper panel so as to level said layers of said perforated floor panel relative said other panel when said panels are supported by said pedestal means.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for lighting a staircase are provided, having one or more lighting devices adapted for mounting on the staircase adjacent the treads of the staircase, controlled by pressure sensitive pads placed above and below the staircase on the floors of upper and lower joined by the staircase. The pressure sensitive pads may be installed under the floor covering of the upper and/or lower levels, or alternatively, may be incorporated into throw rugs or mats that can be placed adjacent the upper and lower ends of the staircase. The lighting devices and pressure sensitive pads may be connected by wires, or wirelessly, or a by a combination of wired and wireless connections, in various embodiments of the invention.

Abstract: A pitch pocket for sealing a physical penetration of a roof is disclosed. The pitch pocket comprises a semi-rigid annular shaped curb with a base surface, and an opening to allow the passage of the physical penetration of the roof. The curb is further provided with a split in order to allow one to install the curb directly around the physical penetration instead of having to slip it on the penetration from its opened end. Adhesive is applied in the split so as to close the curb and adhesive is also applied to the base surface to secure the curb to the roof. A pourable sealant is then cast in the opening of the curb to form a solid seal of the penetration of the roof.

Abstract: A bi-directional sliding pendulum seismic isolation system for reducing seismic force acting on a structure by sliding pendulum movements, each system comprising a lower sliding plate forming a sliding path in a first direction, an upper sliding plate forming a sliding path in a second direction, and a sliding assembly for reducing the seismic force of the structure by performing a pendulum motion by sliding along the lower and upper sliding plates.

Abstract: When a molding member comprising a planar portion, an intermediate portion, and a mounting flange, is installed in a room having a ceiling and having walls, a sealant or a caulk is used for tacking the planar portion to a ceiling or wall surface of the room, along with an adhesive, mechanical fasteners, or both for mounting the mounting flange to a ceiling or wall surface of the room. The planar portion does not have to be otherwise attached to the ceiling or wall surface to which the planar portion is tacked. The mounting flange has apertures, through which drywall-finishing material is pressed against the ceiling or wall surface to which the mounting flange is mounted. The planar portion and the mounting flange have respective ceiling-facing or wall-facing surfaces, which may be coplanar, which may be parallel but not coplanar, or which may be oriented at a right angle relative to each other or at another angle relative to each other.

Abstract: A transfer unit is configured for use with a form, fill and seal packaging machine. The transfer unit receives a partially erected carton from a first station in a tubular form, conveys the carton to a second station, and conveys the carton from the second station to a third station. The transfer unit includes a hub defining a longitudinal hub axis and configured for rotational movement about the hub axis. A plurality of car pairs are mounted to the hub for longitudinal movement along the hub. Each of the car pairs includes first and second cars, each of which has first and second mandrels mounted thereto. The mandrels are configured to receive a partially erected carton. Each mandrel has a mandrel axis and is rotational about its respective axis. The mandrel axes are perpendicular and tangential to the hub axis.

Abstract: A transfer unit is configured for use with a form, fill and seal packaging machine. The transfer unit receives a partially erected carton from a first station in a tubular form, conveys the carton to a second station, and conveys the carton from the second station to a third station. The transfer unit includes a hub defining a longitudinal hub axis and configured for rotational movement about the hub axis. A plurality of car pairs are mounted to the hub for longitudinal movement along the hub. Each of the car pairs includes first and second cars, each of which has first and second mandrels mounted thereto. The mandrels are configured to receive a partially erected carton. Each mandrel has a mandrel axis and is rotational about its respective axis. The mandrel axes are perpendicular and tangential to the hub axis.

Abstract: There is described a forming jaw for producing a succession of sealed packages from a tube of sheet packaging material filled with a pourable food product and fed in a direction parallel to its longitudinal axis. The jaw has sealing means for sealing a cross section of the tube; and forming means for imparting a predetermined shape to the tube between two successive sealed cross sections, and in turn having a first and a second surface for interacting with the tube and which extend respectively in a direction crosswise to and in a direction parallel to the axis of the tube; and the first surface has a convex portion which exerts pressure on, to control filling of, the packages being formed.

Abstract: A banding machine is useful for applying rubber bands on lobster claws, grocery bunches or other plural articles in need of bunching together. The machine has a pivotable sub-frame with two pairs of side-by-side fingers. The fingers in each pair are operable to move apart from the adjacent finger to spread a rubber band when placed on the fingers. The machine has two reels of a rubber tube stock and two pairs of grippers to safeguard controlled feed of the tube to band cutters. The fingers arc each designed to facilitate disengagement of the rubber bands from the fingers when the fingers are spread i.e. in a band application position and an object, e.g. lobster claw, is placed between spread fingers of a finger pair.

Abstract: A tubular film is flattened to form a continuous two-ply film in which the two side edges are continuously connected in the longitudinal direction. This two-ply film is curved into a tubular form, the two side edges are overlapped, and a vertical seal portion is formed in the overlapping portion to form a tube body, and the tube body is filled with a product. The tube body that has been filled with product is horizontally sealed, and the horizontal seal portion that has been thus formed is cut to produce a two-ply bag package.

Abstract: A valve assembly for use with a self-sealing collapsible storage bag, the valve assembly having a first portion comprising a housing that has a sealing surface and contains a valve mechanism. A second portion has a sealing surface that is configured to mate with the sealing surface of the first portion. A snap mechanism is configured to allow the first and second portions to be snapped together with their respective sealing surfaces facing each other to form a substantially airtight seal. In operation, the first and second portions are positioned on opposing sides of a panel of a plastic storage bag, and snapped together so as to sandwich the panel between the first and second portions of the valve assembly. The plastic bag is pierced in the area of the valve assembly either during installation of the valve assembly, or later by insertion of a nozzle. Gas or fluid such as air may be selectively removed from or added to the interior of the storage bag through the valve mechanism.