Abstract: A cooling jacket assembly is made for an electric motor or generator. A hollow cylindrical housing is cast with an outer peripheral surface and an annular axially facing end surface, a plurality of grooves formed in the outer peripheral surface and a radial lip at one end. The outer peripheral surface is machined into a smooth surface having a uniform diameter. Inlet and outlet ports are drilled through the end surface to communicate with the grooves. A pair of sealing recesses are formed in the outer peripheral surface on opposite sides of the grooves, and an O-ring seal is placed in each recess. A cylindrical sleeve is slid over the outer peripheral surface of the housing until it engages the lip and so that the sleeve slidably engages the outer peripheral surface and sealing engages the seals.

Abstract: A method of fabricating a support structure. In one embodiment, the method is comprised of forming a layer of material into the support structure. The layer of material is adapted to be attached onto a substrate surface. The method further comprises treating the layer of material. The present method is further comprised of etching said layer of material. The fabricated support structure is then implementable during assembly of a display device. In one embodiment, the support structure is attached to the substrate surface prior to the forming, treating, and etching of the layer of material. In another embodiment, the support structure is attached to the substrate surface subsequent to the forming, treating, and etching of the layer of material.

Abstract: A cylindrical bearing member, which can hold lubricating oil in blind grooves as oil reservoirs for a long period of time to exhibit a lubricating function sufficiently, the blind grooves being efficiently mass-produced on the inside of the cylindrical member at low cost. The cylindrical bearing member has an inner circumferential surface having a plurality of blind grooves and is formed as a hollow open-ended cylindrical member with a bottom from a circular column-shaped crude material or blank. The blank includes a tapered inner circumferential surface at its open end. A groove forming die pin including groove forming protrusions is pushed from the open end towards the bottom to obtain a cylindrical member in which a plurality of grooves are formed on the inner surface.

Abstract: The present invention is a multi-purpose hand tool that can remove foliage from vegetables and other plants, including flowers. It can also be used for various other jobs, including the removal of plastic coating on electrical wiring, thorns on roses, and to snip stems. The dual retractable blades eliminate the need to pull foliage from the stem by hand, making it possible to stem both sides at once with one swift upward motion of the instrument. The dual handles increase the ease-of-use for people who have difficulty gripping small objects. This enables quicker preparation and clean-up because you can stem and snip with one pull and the greens need not be cut apart first.

Abstract: A multipurpose tool includes bypass shears with handles that fold around the shears into a compact configuration in which the blades of the shears are hidden. A sharp-edged cutter is removable from the shears for resharpening or replacement, in one version of the tool. A blade safety lock holds the blades closed and is automatically engaged as the handles are folded. The handles are comfortably shaped and may include overmolded elastomeric cushioning portions.

Abstract: A small, handheld sheet material cutter has a pair of cooperating cutting wheels and a mechanism for easily adjusting the position of one of the cutting wheels in order to provide a lateral gap of varying width between the cutting edges of the two cutting wheels, thus permitting the cutter to cleanly cut sheet material of various thicknesses. The cutter also has a guide bar that can be used in combination with any sheet metal brake to provide straight cuts. Since the cutter need not be mounted on a sheet metal-brake, it can also be used freehand to cut curves and angles.

Abstract: Colored razor blades are provided. Methods for manufacturing such blades are also provided, including methods involving depositing an oxide coating prior to heat treatment of the blade material and heat treating under conditions selected to enhance the color of the coating.

Abstract: An electric pencil sharpener includes a power source, such as a plurality of batteries, disposed within a base portion. The electrical pencil sharpener further includes a housing portion connected to the base portion and a motor disposed within the housing portion, operatively coupled to the power source. The pencil sharpener includes a head portion with a plurality of mounting elements for operatively connecting the head portion to the housing portion. Furthermore, each head portion includes a blade assembly disposed therein, wherein the blade assembly is operatively connected to the motor and the selective activation of the motor rotates the blade assembly relative to the head portion, therein sharpening a pencil. Moreover, the head portion with the plurality mounting elements is removable from the housing portion for the disposal of pencil shavings or the insertion of other head portions for the sharpening of pencils having different dimensions.

Abstract: Shaving systems and related methods are disclosed. In some embodiments, a shaving system includes a first electrical power source, a razor, and a second electrical power source in the razor, wherein the first electrical power source is capable of charging the second electrical power source.

Abstract: Celestial object location devices with sensor arrays of having less that one sensor for each of three orthogonal components of gravity and magnetic field vectors. The accuracy of position sensing is enhanced by estimating “missing” sensor input based on input from two orthogonal sensors provided, or determined with limitations from the two gravitational sensors provided.

Abstract: A laser leveling device includes a laser instrument having a base rotatably received in a cavity of a housing and having a light emitting device to generate a light beam, such as a line-shaped light beam. One or more batteries may be used to energize the light emitting device. The light beam generated by the light emitting device may be rotated relative to the housing when the light emitting device of the laser instrument is rotated relative to the housing. The housing includes two conductors, and the laser instrument includes two terminals to electrically couple to the conductors of the housing when the laser instrument is rotated relative to the housing.

Abstract: According to the invention, in order to control the vehicle geometry of a chain or belt driven vehicle, chain alignment of the secondary drive is determined by means of a laser module (1) which is placed on the lateral surface of the chain wheel or the belt pulley and whose the laser beam is directed to the edge area of the chain or belt. Wheel alignment can also be determined, by arranging two pairs of circular segment shaped calibres (11), which are pressed flat against each other by pressing means (12) on each side of the rim of at least one back wheel and on at least one front wheel of the vehicle, and by emitting parallel laser beams (17) on both sides of one of the calibre pairs to the other calibre pair (17), the laser beams impacting measuring devices (13) which are arranged on both sides of the other pair of calibres. The dimensional accuracy of the swing and the front wheel fork can also be determined in a similar manner.

Abstract: A method for surveying a subterranean borehole is provided. The method includes determining tool face angles at first and second longitudinal positions in the borehole. The method further includes processing the tool face angles to determine a change in borehole azimuth between the first and second positions. Exemplary embodiments of this invention provide a direct mathematical solution for the change in azimuth and therefore provide for improved accuracy and reliability of azimuth determination (as compared to the prior art) over nearly the entire range of possible borehole inclination, azimuth, tool face, and dogleg values.

Abstract: A magnetic compass includes a base having a receiving chamber for receiving a compass body, a battery chamber for receiving a battery set, an illuminant chamber for receiving an illuminant, and a locating chamber for receiving an electrically conductive member. The illuminant has a first terminal suspended above the battery set. A push button is supported on the first terminal of the illuminant for pressing by the user to force the first terminal of the illuminant downwards into contact with a first terminal of the battery set. The conductive member has a base frame mounted in the locating chamber, and a contact portion extended from the base frame and inserted into the battery chamber and pressed on a second terminal of the battery set. A second terminal of the illuminant is electrically connected to the base frame of the conductive member.

Abstract: A touch probe with an arm (13) coupled to a movable arm-set (3) supported in a casing (1) includes an electric switch (31) with a housing (33) fixed to the casing and a mechanical transmission device (61) for mechanically transmitting displacements of the arm, and causing the disengagement of a conductive small ball (51) from two stationary conductive bars (44, 45), thereby opening an electric detecting circuit. An elongate mechanical body (63) of the mechanical transmission device includes a spherical-shaped element (67) that is transversally urged against a binary (71) for guiding with accuracy and free of clearances the displacements of the elongate mechanical body. A bent flat spring (73) contacts a plane portion of the spherical transmission element for achieving both the transversal thrust against the binary and the antirotation of the elongate mechanical body.

Abstract: An oil level gauge guide structure including an oil level gauge for measuring engine oil of a vehicle. An oil level gauge is held in an oil level gauge guide. A clip is provided having a first end section held to a resinous part fixed to an engine main body, and a second end section held to the oil level gauge guide. The oil level gauge is provided with two linear stoppers contactable with the second end section of the clip, and an O-ring fixed on an end section of the oil level gauge guide. The end section of the oil level gauge guide is inserted into the communication hole in a first direction, while the first end section of the clip is pressed to the resinous part in a second direction. The first and second directions are parallel with each other.

Abstract: A tool and tool holder with a permanent magnet mounted upon one and a magnetically permeable keeper on the other are provided with respective camming surfaces which are cooperatively engaged when the tool is rotated, breaking the magnetic attraction between opposing surfaces of the magnet and keeper to facilitate removal of the tool from the holder. A cup-like receptacle is mounted upon a body portion of the tool, disclosed in each of two embodiments as a flexible, metal measuring tape contained within a hollow housing, and one of the magnet and keeper is disposed within this receptacle. The camming surface on the tool comprises convex protrusions within the receptacle in a first embodiment, and protrusions extending outwardly from the periphery of the receptacle in a second embodiment. A recess is formed in a surface of the holder to receive the receptacle on the tool when the latter is releasably mounted upon the holder.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel installation (100) for drying products (70) of the most varied type, the dehumidifying apparatus (10) of which comprises two silica-gel adsorbent bodies (20, 20?) which work in alternating operation and which—in a periodically mutually alternating manner—pass through an adsorption or dehumidifying phase (EB) and a regeneration phase (RB), the periodic changeover to the respective other phase and vice versa being effected by means of a control unit (8), which can be supplied with moisture data or the like from moisture sensors or the like, e.g. as a function of the moisture of the air after passing through the adsorbent body (20, 20?) which is in the regeneration phase (RB), the dehumidified air (lt) being drawn by means of a suction fan (71) through a drying chamber (7) containing the product (70) to be dried.

Abstract: A steam blower box for applying steam onto a material web, particularly paper, which travels past the steam blower box. The steam blower box has a front and a rear limitation as seen in the travel direction of the material web and a steam chamber located between the front and rear limitations, wherein the steam chamber is open toward the material web. The steam chamber is closed off at its front and rear ends in the direction of travel by a limiting surface each of which protrudes in the direction toward the material web, and particularly forms a limiting edge; between the limiting surfaces, the steam chamber has a housing wall which is recessed relative to the material web. For achieving an air-free steam chamber of the steam blower box, a first steam outlet opening is provided in the housing wall immediately adjacent to the front limiting surface.

Abstract: A dryer and a lamp cover mounting structure for a dryer is provided. The dryer includes a drying drum, a supporting member for supporting the front portion of the drying drum, a lamp cover installed on the rear portion of the supporting member, and a mounting portion at the rear of the supporting member for mounting the lamp cover thereon.

Abstract: Work footwear includes a work shoe and a resilient anti-fatigue layer shaped to fit under the sole and heel of a shoe of a wearer with a cover member elastically attached to the shoe to trap the layer therebetween. The layer is separate from the cover for ready replacement. When used in a contaminated area the cover member has a peripheral wall to seal the area between the cover and the shoe against penetration of moisture. When used in an uncontaminated environment, the layer may be received in a cupped shape of the cover member with elastic strap portions engaging over the foot to hold the cover and layer in place.

Abstract: A sandal having a sole and at least one heel post attached to the sole is provided, with a continuous strap attached to the heel post and the sole. The strap has an instep portion located forward of the heel post and a heel portion located rearward of the heel post. The length of the continuous strap is adjusted with an adjustable fastener, and the lengths of the instep portion and the heel portion are independently and selectively adjusted with at least one cleat.

Abstract: A waterproofed and breathable sole (10) for shoes, characterized in that it comprises a tread (11) made of leather or similar breathable and water-permeable material, which is coverad at least partially in an upward region by a membrane (12) made of a material that is breathable and waterproof and is joined perimetrically to the tread (11) by means of a screen-printed sealing ring (14).

Abstract: This invention relates generally to footwear such as a shoe, including an athletic shoe, with a shoe sole, including at least one removable midsole section formed by a midsole portion, wherein the removable midsole section is non-orthotic. The removable midsole section is inserted within the shoe upper, the sides of which hold it in position. The shoe sole includes a concavely rounded side or underneath portion, which may be formed in part by the removable midsole section. The removable midsole section may extend the length of the shoe sole or may form only a part of the shoe sole and can incorporate cushioning or structural compartments or components. The removable midsole section provides the capability to permit replacement of midsole material which has degraded or has worn out in order to maintain optimal characteristics of the shoe sole.

Abstract: A shoe is provided for improving use efficiency through reduction of neuromuscular fatigue. The shoe includes an upper having a generally horizontal bottom wall. The bottom wall includes an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper comprises a forward region having a forward center of loading and a rear region having a rear center of loading. The shoe further includes a sole comprising a midsole and an outsole. The midsole comprises a suspension element, which can have a generally elongated shape. The suspension element further has a center of compression, which is generally aligned with at least one of the first and second centers of loading of the upper. The shoe can have a hinge located within the sole for providing enhanced efficiency to the user. The hinge and suspension element(s) can take various forms. The position and structure of the hinge and suspension element(s) in relation to the midsole can take various forms as well.

Abstract: Resilient shoe lift incorporating a series of lever rods stabilized by bars and integrally molded into the structure of a shoe sole, such that when the sole is fabricated into assembled shoe, and the shoe is worn, the lever rods add lift to the shoe which enhances the ability of the athlete to run, jump, or even when employed within a walking situation.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that incorporates an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure includes a midsole and an outsole. The midsole defines an aperture with a first sidewall, and the midsole includes an insert positioned within the aperture. The insert has a second sidewall, with at least a portion of the second sidewall being spaced from the first sidewall to define a space between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The outsole is secured to the midsole, and the outsole defines a ridge that is positioned within a lower portion of the space and between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper, an outsole, and a midsole. The upper is configured to receive a foot, and the outsole is secured to the upper. The outsole defines a plurality of apertures extending entirely through the outsole. In addition, the outsole has a ground-engaging surface positioned at a first elevation. The midsole is separate from the upper and the outsole. The midsole is also positionable within the upper such that a lower surface of the midsole extends into the apertures of the outsole and is exposed by the apertures. The lower surface is at a second elevation, the first elevation being less than the second elevation.

Abstract: Articles of footwear having a unitary midsole with an integrally molded toe cap that extends over the wearer's toes are disclosed, in which the midsole is molded in multiple sections one of which includes the integrally-molded toe cap which are joined to one another to provide the unitary midsole.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper, an ankle support, and a sole structure. The upper receives a foot of an individual and includes a tab that is convertible from a folded first position to an extended second position. The ankle support is configured to extend around an ankle of the individual, and the ankle support is positioned proximal the tab. The sole structure is secured to the upper. The footwear is convertible between a first configuration and a second configuration. The tab is in the folded first position and separate from the ankle support in the first configuration, and the tab is in the extended second position and joined with the ankle support in the second configuration.

Abstract: A footwear with interchangeable components that includes, an interchangeable mid-sole foot bed w/upper, an interchangeable mid-sole chassis, an interchangeable mid-sole foot bed interlocker, and an interchangeable lug-treading. The interchangeable mid-sole foot bed w/upper is removably mounted to the interchangeable mid-sole foot chassis and interlocked with an interchangeable mid-sole interlocker so that interchangeable mid-sole foot bed w/upper can be readily changed by user according to user preference. The interchangeable mid-sole chassis is removably mounted to the interchangeable mid-sole foot bed w/upper and interlocked by the interchangeable mid-sole foot bed interlocker and interchangeable lug-treading so that the interchangeable mid-sole chassis can be readily changed by user according to user preference.

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: An interchangeable footwear system comprising a shoe assembly including: (a) a base shoe; (b) interchangeable covers, in which any one of a plurality of said covers are adapted to allow fitting to said base shoe forming an assembly so as to change the appearance and use environment of said shoe assembly.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole assembly and an upper secured to the sole assembly. A plurality of ribs is positioned on an exterior surface of at least one of the upper and the sole assembly, with each rib including a plurality of faces and each face having an image thereon.

Abstract: An improved hand operated snow removal device is disclosed. The device can be used to quickly remove snow to form a plurality of cleared parallel pathways by pushing the device through the snow and then pulling the device through the snow to clear away any windrows left by the formation of the cleared paths. The device includes a “V” shaped plough having an apex and a pair of plough blades extending away from the apex, the plough blades each having a lower edge. A shovel blade is mounted between the plough blades, the shovel blade having a lower edge, the lower edge of the shovel blade and the lower edges of the plough blades being substantially coplanar. The shovel blade has a first side oriented away from the apex. The device also includes a handle for grasping the device and pushing and pulling it through the snow.

Abstract: A system usable for dredging may include a suction bypass system for automatically maintaining a sufficiently high, liquid flow velocity. Preferably, a flow sensor monitors flow velocity and when the monitor flow decreases to an extent that plugging may occur, a liquid bypass valve is opened and an intake line valve is closed until the flow velocity increases whereupon the valves are returned to their original positions. An automatic level cut removes a relatively constant layer of material from a contoured bottom. The illustrated automatic level cut process comprises adjusting the force with which the suction head engages the bottom, moving the suction head in a direction opposite to the direction of the swing of the boom to keep the suction head pointing straight ahead, and maintaining the suction head to stay substantially level with the bottom even though the angle of the boom increases to the surface of the water body.

Abstract: The invention provides a vibration damping device capable of maintaining high vibration damping effect, and a bucket for a construction machine. To this end, the vibration damping device has a laminated plate (20) having at least its inner region fixed in a noise-emitting base material (11), the inner region being a region (G) other then a region which becomes a loop in a vibration mode when the base material (11) is vibrated in a vibration mode with a predetermined frequency.

Abstract: Activity scheduling device including a display board having sections demarcated from one another. Each section represents a period of time such as a day and includes subsections, each representing a portion of the period of time, for example, hours of the day. Indicators are provided, each indicative of an activity, and an attachment mechanism is provided to attach the indicators to the display board. The activity may take the form of a picture and/or text on one or both surfaces of a substrate forming the indicator. In use, indicators indicative of a specific activity are placed on the appropriate day and at the appropriate time at which the activity is scheduled.

Abstract: A calendar device for storing and displaying interchangeable photographs or pictures and reminding a user of important events includes: (a) a photo sleeve portion including at least one durable, reusable, re-foldable tab; and (b) a calendar portion adjacent to the photo sleeve portion; wherein the photo sleeve portion holds at least one photograph or picture.

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

Abstract: A container is disclosed including a body portion and a lid. A first towel is typically wrapped around the body portion. The first towel may include a design. A second towel may be attached to the lid. The second towel may also include a design. At least one three dimensional object may be attached to the first towel and to the second towel. The body portion of the container may have a cylindrical shape. A method is also disclosed comprising placing a first design on a first towel, and attaching the first towel to a body portion of a container. The method may also include placing the first design on the first towel by ironing the first design onto the first towel.

Abstract: A flag for labeling drugs or medications provided in a medication cup, for use in the operating room, has a cup section with an adhesive back surface peelably attached to a backing sheet. A flag section is attached to the cup section of the flag at a bend line. A flag strip also having an adhesive back surface is supplied on the backing sheet. Multiple flags of different colors are preferably provided in a kit. A flag is attached to each cup. The flag section is labeled with a marker or a preprinted label, to indicate the content of the cup. The flag section is folded down so that it partially overlies the open top end of the cup. The syringe strip is adhered to a syringe used to draw medication out of the cup for administration to the patient. The flag and syringe strip provide a visual link or connection between each syringe and the contents of each cup. The risk of administering the wrong drug to a patient is reduced.

Abstract: An online boxing scrapbook tailored and personalized to the needs of the boxer, trainer, manager, promoter, sports writer, publicist, venue, boxing executive, or fan. The present invention essentially provides a boxing digest that is customized to particular individuals based on their interests, and that filters out information unwanted by these individuals. The boxing digest gathers information from numerous sources, online or otherwise. In selected embodiments, each subscriber to the scrapbook receives an email alert any time new information becomes available regarding a particular boxer or topic of interest.

Abstract: A combination sign holder and strip retailer for provided expanded area for graphics and detailed information about products offered for sale on the strip retailer. The sign holder portion of the combination has an opening at or near the bottom thereof to accommodate the passage of a plastic strip retailer (die-cut or injection molded) through the opening. An enlarged portion of the strip retailer is retained on opposite sides of the opening. The sign holder portion of the combination may be made of a heat-folded PVC having an additional third panel that allows the sign holder to be held by a C-shaped price channel on a store shelf. Alternatively, an adhesive strip or hooks extending through holes in the sign holder may be used to fasten the combination to a retail fixture.

Abstract: A device for displaying and exchanging a plurality of documents of various shapes and sizes and for organizing the same. The device of the present invention comprises at least two layers of pliable sheet material. If multiple sheets are used, the sheets may be nested together. The sheets may then be inserted into a binder mechanism where the binder mechanism compressibly engages the layers to create a pressure region adjacent thereto. The frictional force between the sheet material and the inserted document retains a document inserted into the pressure region formed between two adjacent layers.

Abstract: A vehicle locator and identification card for vehicle parking and servicing establishments includes a sheet of paperboard having the identical number printed on three different segments defined by perforations or partial die cuts. A patch of clear plastic is laminated to one segment of the paperboard sheet from which a key ring is die punched. The other segments are a customer claim check and a tag for placement in a parked or serviced vehicle.

Abstract: A mix and match framing system comprising a frame adapted to receive artwork, such as a mirror, painting, print or the like therein. The frame includes a ledge or ridge against which the artwork abuts and swivelled closure members at spaced locations on the back of the frame for securing the artwork in place. The system also includes spacing elements that may be used to compensate for differences in thickness of the artwork.

Abstract: A display easel is provided having a base or first panel which includes a horizontal supporting tab and a vertical restraining tab spaced in vertical relation to the supporting tab. The horizontal supporting tab has a first hinge that enables movement of the supporting tab relative to the panel body, preferably to about 90 degrees, into a position for supporting the first panel. The vertical restraining tab has a second hinge which enables movement of the vertical restraining tab relative to the panel body, preferably between about 120 degrees and 160 degrees, to permit abutment of the vertical restraining tab to the horizontal supporting tab and to restrain movement of the horizontal supporting tab. By restraining movement of the horizontal supporting tab, the display easel is maintained in an upright position. A method of forming a display easel is also provided which enables the display easel to be rapidly and economically manufactured in large quantities, such as through the use of web press equipment.

Abstract: A firearm safety lock for an automatic pistol such as the Model 1911 firearm is disclosed. The safety lock includes a means of arresting the operation of the main trigger or hammer spring in the pistol grip of the firearm to prevent movement of the hammer, thereby locking the gun in a safe condition. A means and a method is disclosed for locking a pistol in a sale condition by arresting the movement of the hammer spring buffer through insertion of a locking shaft through the pistol grip housing which can be keyed to prevent unauthorized removal of the locking shaft. The disclosed invention may be used on newly manufactured firearms or provides a method to easily convert an existing firearm without permanent modification or damage to the firearm.

Abstract: A hand guard adapted for use in a firearm having a barrel and a line of sight in a sight plane. The hand guard surrounds a portion of the barrel and comprises a guard casing and fastening features coupled to the guard casing. Peripheral device mounting rails are coupled to the fastening features and located in a generally “Y” shape pattern. The generally “Y” shape pattern has a first peripheral device mounting rail located on a lower portion of the guard casing and second and third peripheral device mounting rails located on opposing sides of an upper portion of the guard casing. The peripheral device mounting rails are placed where peripheral devices mounted on the peripheral device mounting rails do not interfere with the line of sight.