Abstract: Method for cleaning a tub of a washing machine including the steps of supplying water to a tub without introduction of laundry into the tub, washing for the first time for permeation of water into contaminants, and removal of contaminants lightly stuck to a surface of the tub, soaking the contaminants for a predetermined time period, washing for the second time for separating soaked contaminants from the surface of the tub, and draining water from the tub, whereby cleaning contaminated tub of the washing machine.

Abstract: A dish washing machine includes a washing tub with a spraying device in the tub fitted with spraying openings supplied with washing liquid from a pump coupled thereto for spraying the washing liquid into the tub. The dishwashing machine includes a control element actuatable for switching on the pump and supplying the washing liquid when the tub is open and accessible. The dishwashing machine also includes a sensor for detecting the tub open position and for triggering throttling of the flow rate of the washing liquid through the spraying openings to reduce the flow rate when the tub is accessible.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a substrate containing a micro-feature having a residue thereon. The method includes treating the substrate with a supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning solution containing a peroxide to remove the residue from the micro-feature, where the supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning solution is maintained at a temperature between about 35° C. and about 80° C. According an embodiment of the invention, the supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning solution can further contain ozone. According to another embodiment of the invention, the substrate can be pre-treated with an ozone processing environment.

Abstract: A TAC film pre-processing method for reducing the contact angle of water on the TAC film is described. In this method, the TAC film is sequentially cleaned by a base solution, water and an acid solution. Then, the TAC film is cleaned by an aqueous solution of an alcohol, such as isopropanol. The concentration of the alcohol is preferably about 4-6% by volume.

Abstract: An onboard treatment solution injection system (40) includes a container (42) removably received in a holder (51) having a plurality of condition sensors (52) arranged in a vertical linear series. An injection pump (44) draws treatment solution from the container (42) and injects it into cleaning solution flowing in a line (15) from a solution tank (16) under action of a solution pump (18). The relative pumping rates of the pumps (18, 44) are controlled by a controller (58) controlled by the condition sensors (52) detecting a magnet (56) which is adjustably slideably mounted on the container (42) according to the type of treatment solution held therein. A valve (50) allows the injection pump (44) to be alternately in fluid communication with the container (42) or the solution tank (16) for purging.

Abstract: In a substrate cleaning method for cleaning a backside of a substrate on a surface of which a predetermined processing is performed, a two phase substance contacts the backside of the substrate, and a flow of the substance is generated near the backside of the substrate under a specified pressure. The two phase substance is a gas containing aerosol or a supercritical substance, and the specified pressure is higher than or equal to 133 Pa (1 Torr). Further, in the substrate cleaning method, a high-energy light may be irradiated on the backside of the substrate.

Abstract: A film removal system for cleaning a substrate containing a micro-feature having a residue thereon. The film removal system includes a supercritical fluid processing system configured for treating the substrate witha supercritical carbon dioxide cleaning solution to remove the residue from the micro-feature, and for maintaining the supercritical carbon dioxide solution at a temperature between about 35° C. and about 80° C. during the treating. The film removal system further includes an ozone generator configured for providing an ozone processing environment for treating the substrate either prior to treating with the supercritical cleaning solution or concurrently therewith, and a controller configured for controlling the ozone generator and the supercritical fluid processing system.

Abstract: A device with a moveable portico for automatically washing vehicles that is made up of a unibody structure, preferably made of metal that moves forwards and backwards along a track. The structure has multiple vertical brushes and a horizontal brush. The brushes are equipped with a washing action in order to adapt to a configuration that follows the vehicle's outline and to wash the vehicle by rubbing, controlling the pressure all of the brushes place on the vehicle by means of electronic devices that measure the energy consumed by each brush.

Abstract: A substrate processing vessel has a vessel body 100 and a cover 130 hermetically joined to the vessel body 100. The vessel body 100 is provided with a plurality of substrate support rods 102. Each of the support rods 102 has a shank 103 and a head 104 having a diameter greater than that of the shank 103 and attached to the upper end of the shank 103. The shanks 103 penetrate the vessel body 100 and project downward from the vessel body 100. When each substrate support rod 102 is lowered to its lower position, the head 104 is seated hermetically on a part, around the open upper end of a through hole 108 through which the shank 103 is inserted, of the vessel body 100. When each substrate support rod 102 is raised to its upper position, a space of a big thickness capable of receiving a wafer carrying arm 14a is formed between the upper surface of the vessel body 100 and a wafer W supported on the substrate support rods 102.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a washing system including a nozzle assembly having a nozzle and having formed therein a rinse passageway and a waste passageway. Each passageway has first and second ends. The first end of the waste passageway is adapted to be coupled to a waste pump adapted to remove waste fluid via a waste aperture defining the second end of the waste passageway. The first end of the rinse passageway is adapted to be coupled to a rinse pump adapted to provide rinse fluid via a rinse aperture defining the second end of the rinse passageway. The nozzle is coupled to the rinse aperture and is adapted to rotate and direct flow of the rinse fluid outwardly while rotating.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pressure washer having an internal mounting and outer clam shell housing. Accordingly, a pressure washer includes an engine for mechanically coupled to a pump. An internal mounting assembly including a folded portion is disposed generally between the engine and the pump so as to mount/support the engine and pump structure. In embodiments, various axle mounting structures such as a unitary axle bracket, a separate axle bracket, or the like is integrated with a folded main mounting into the mounting assembly. An axle assembly having at least two spaced apart wheels pivotally mounted to an axle which extends through the internal mounting axle bracket is included in the pressure washer. A generally U-shaped frame member is secured to at least one of the internal mounting/engine. The U-shaped frame member is implemented to support the pressure washer in a tripod like fashion with the wheels when disposed on a support surface.

Abstract: A nozzle arrangement is described which may in particular be used as a flow nozzle in galvanization systems with horizontal throughput of printed-circuit boards. The nozzle arrangement comprises a longitudinal housing (2) with at least one fluid feed opening to feed a treatment fluid for treating a work piece, for example a printed-circuit board, and preferably a plurality of slotted fluid delivery openings (8) for releasing the treatment fluid. In the housing (2) a fluid channel (5) is formed for feeding the treatment fluid from the fluid feed opening to the fluid delivery openings (8). In order to achieve the most even possible flow speed of the treatment fluid at the fluid delivery openings (8), (a) the throughput of the fluid channel (5) for the treatment fluid reduces continuously from the fluid feed opening in the longitudinal direction of the housing (2) and/or (b) before the delivery of the fluid from the fluid delivery openings (8) a storage chamber is provided.

Abstract: A washer-jet verification master is employed to determine the correct alignment of washer nozzles within a production machine. The verification master includes a plurality of targets, which are preset to a first position. The verification master is placed in the production machine the water jets are actuated and if properly aligned will move the targets to a second position, which indicates proper operation.

Abstract: An improved umbrella includes a durable hub including a number of spherical rotating joint knuckles captured in a hub body. The joint knuckles provide rotational movement of rib and spreader elements which support a flexible umbrella cover. The joint knuckles provide increased bearing surface area that increases ease of use and durability. The hub design enables identical hub bodies to be used for a spreader hub and a rib hub.

Abstract: A hunter tent comprises a dome roof comprising flaps formed therearound, coupling mechanisms along a lower edge, an upright shank, and a folding radial frame; a wall comprising loops formed along its upper edge, mated coupling mechanisms each formed on an upper edge of the loop, each mated coupling mechanism being adapted to releasably couple to the corresponding coupling mechanism for coupling the wall and the dome together, and pegs driven through peg loops along a lower edge of the wall into the ground for fastening wherein the wall is an elongated piece after being extended so as to form a first edge at one end and a second edge at the other end, the edges being operatively coupled together; and a fastening bar comprising holding means at its head for retaining the shank in place, and a threaded end fastened at a tree.

Abstract: An tent structure includes a tent, at least one solar energy panel placed on the tent structure for absorbing sunlight or other light, and a switching device, for switching solar energy to electric energy, connected to the at least one solar energy panel for transforming solar energy supplied by the solar energy panels into electric energy.

Abstract: The present invention discloses, a connection member of a movable type camp with a good detachability comprising: a main pipe and an auxiliary pipe having a penetration hole at a predetermined portion of its external circumference surface, respectively; an elastic member having a “?” shape attached to the inside of the auxiliary pipe so that a constant elastic force is generated toward the inside circumference portion from the center of the auxiliary pipe; and a connection protrusion formed at the top surface of the upper end portion of the elastic member, which is inserted to the penetration holes of the main pipe and the auxiliary pipe and exposed to the outside, whereby the assemble and disassemble processes of the framework are performed easily.

Abstract: An inexpensive enclosure providing a protected space on a beach, lawn or the like. An inflatable tube forms a wall surrounding a space having an open end, so that a user is shielded from small kicked or thrown material or objects, running pets and the like. The tubular wall has flaps extending from its bottom surface, with pouches or separate tubes which a user fills at the site to hold the enclosure in place. The enclosure may have a floor, and may have attachment portions for removably connecting an extension unit having a floor which extends beyond the open end of the space between side portions of the wall.

Abstract: The invention provides a modular sunshade awning system comprising at least a first awning unit comprising a frame formed from a closed loop of a strip of a flat wire spring-like element, the area enclosed by the closed loop being covered by an opaque material, and a plurality of semi-rigid poles, each of the poles having a first end adapted to be attached to a ground surface and a second end of each of the poles being provided with a slot sized to receive a segment of the flat wire strip, and a releasable latch for securing the strip to the pole.

Abstract: An improved personal shelter canopy hub is formed using a number of spherical rotating joint elements captured in a hub body. The joint elements provide rotational movement of canopy frame elements to allow easy opening and collapsing of a canopy frame and cover. An improved canopy includes two hubs joined by a cross shaft. Each hub may be formed by molding in high-density plastic and combined with stub arms to facilitate subsequent assembly of a completed canopy.

Abstract: A new concept in automobile and equipment covering that addresses several major inefficiencies in current cover applications (those covers that contact the surface of the stored item or serve as portable shelters). In its preferred embodiment, the instant invention includes a series of arched poles that support a weatherproof cover and facilitate quick set-up and full retraction(similar to the concept used on many convertible car tops). The shape of the shelter will likely be in the form of a half-dome or other similar shape depending on application. The design will also allow for the weight of the vehicle or equipment stored to anchor the shelter when closed. The instant invention significantly improves the current level of “car cover” protection because it does not contact the surface of the auto or other stored equipment thus it eliminates scratches, mildewing and wind-abrasion, and it fully retracts for ease of use.

Abstract: Semiconductor integrated thermoelectric devices are provided, which are formed having high-density arrays of thermoelectric (TE) elements using semiconductor thin-film and VLSI (very large scale integration) fabrication processes. Thermoelectric devices can be either separately formed and bonded to semiconductor chips, or integrally formed within the non-active surface of semiconductor chips, for example.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to nanocomposite thermoelectric materials that exhibit enhanced thermoelectric properties. The nanocomposite materials include two or more components, with at least one of the components forming nano-sized structures within the composite material. The components are chosen such that thermal conductivity of the composite is decreased without substantially diminishing the composite's electrical conductivity. Suitable component materials exhibit similar electronic band structures. For example, a band-edge gap between at least one of a conduction band or a valence band of one component material and a corresponding band of the other component material at interfaces between the components can be less than about 5 kBT, wherein kB is the Boltzman constant and T is an average temperature of said nanocomposite composition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a base assembly having a plurality of solar powered illuminators, characterized in that in each of the solar powered bases, at least one illumination device is controlled by a sensor and a timing device therein to illuminate at a predetermined interval for the purpose of saving energy; and by signals transmitting through transceivers, all the solar powered bases can illuminate simultaneously.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing the photoelectrode of a solar cell in which a layer of a nanocrystalline semiconductor material is applied on a substrate and then sintered at a sintering temperature. In the method, elongated particles which burn out at the sintering temperature and leave elongated cavities in the layer are introduced into the layer. The invention also relates to a solar cell having a photoelectrode which has such type cavities. The method permits producing photoelectrodes for dye solar cells which allow sufficient diffusion of the electrolyte into the photoelectrode and thus a sufficiently great photocurrent even in the case of high viscous electrolytes.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for solar energy production comprises a multi-layer solid-state structure including a photosensitive layer, a thin conductor, a charge separation layer, and a back ohmic conductor, wherein light absorption occurs in a photosensitive layer and the charge carriers produced thereby are transported through the thin conductor through the adjacent potential energy barrier. The open circuit voltage of the solar cell can be manipulated by choosing from among a wide selection of materials making up the thin conductor, the charge separation layer, and the back ohmic layer.

Abstract: Formulations and methods of making solar cells are disclosed. In general, the invention presents a solar cell contact made from a mixture wherein the mixture comprises a solids portion and an organics portion, wherein the solids portion comprises from about 85 to about 99 wt % of silver, and from about 1 to about 15 wt % of a glass component wherein the glass component comprises from about 15 to about 75 mol % PbO, and from about 5 to about 50 mol % SiO2, and preferably with no B2O3.

Abstract: In a counter electrode 3 of a dye sensitizing solar cell 1 wherein an electrolyte 4 is filled in a space between a photoelectrode 2 and the counter electrode 3, a corrosion-resistant metallic material film 10 is formed on a counter substrate 8 so as to have a large number of recesses 13 which are formed in a surface thereof and which are arranged in intervals so that the surface of the corrosion-resistant metallic material film 10 has a waveform cross-section, and a conductive catalytic material film 11 is formed on the surface of the corrosion-resistant metallic material film 10 so as to extend along the surface of the corrosion-resistant metallic material film 10.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of photovoltaics and more specifically to manufacturing thin-film solar cells using a thermal process. Specifically, a method is disclosed to manufacture a CIGS solar cell by an in-situ junction formation process.

Abstract: A carrier assembly or cart which affords a portable source of water to allow the dispensing of cleaning chemicals over a large area. The cart also includes compartments for the placement of dispensing devices as well as the attachment for cleaning devices such as brooms, a mop bucket and a waste receptacle. The cart is constructed in a unitary and compact manner.

Abstract: An actuator assembly for use in conjunction with a pneumatic valve assembly of the type which includes an airway having an inlet port, an outlet port, and a valve disposed within the airway and configured to be moved between an open position and a closed position, comprises a first actuator coupled to the valve for moving the valve between the open position and the closed position in a first operational mode, and a second actuator coupled to the valve for opening the valve in a second operational mode.

Abstract: A top entry check valve including a valve body with an access port. A compressible hanger body engages a portion of the valve body and is positioned in alignment with the access port of the valve body. A clapper is connected to the hanger body so that the clapper is movable between a closed position wherein the clapper engages a valve seat to occlude the passage of fluid through the fluid flow passage and an open position wherein the clapper is moved away from the valve seat to permit passage of fluid through the fluid flow passage. A closure member is connected to the valve body to close the access port of the valve body. The closure member has an abutment surface engaging the hanger body so that the hanger body is compressed between the closure member and the valve body.

Abstract: A flow control device that creates a pulsating flow includes a body with a flow passage defined therethrough. The device further includes a flow interruption element having a flow interrupting position and an open position and a biasing element that biases the flow interruption element into the flow interrupting position. A flow of gas or fluid passing through the flow passage impinges on the flow-interrupting member causing the flow interrupting member to intermittently move between the flow interrupting position and the open position, thereby intermittently allowing the flow of gas or fluid to pass the flow interrupting element. This creates a pulsating flow of gas or fluid.

Abstract: An interchangeable sanitary part in the form of a check valve including an outer housing (3) which can be inserted into a fluid line and has at least one peripheral seal (20, 21) on its outer circumference, which seals the outer housing (3) and the fluid line against each other. In order to avoid using additional O-rings, the at least one seal (20, 21) for providing linear or planar sealing is produced from the same material as the outer housing and forms a single element with the outer circumference of the housing. A least one peripheral sealing lip (8) located on the inner surface of the outer housing (3) is provided which is formed of the same material as the outer housing. The free end of the sealing lip (8) protrudes in such a way that, when the check valve is closed, the lip acts on the closing part (4) or the inner surface of the outer housing (3) in a sealing manner.

Abstract: An integrated pressure regulator and pressure gauge employs a pressure gauge in a biasing assembly, e.g. integrated into a knob. The integrated pressure regulator and pressure gauge includes an adapter body; a plunger which forms a seal to retain a regulated pressure and includes a bleed off passageway, a tap into the regulated pressure, and a post including an O-ring seal; a knob threadably connected to the adapter body; a spring compressed between the knob and the plunger; and a pressure gauge connected to the post.

Abstract: In apparatus of the invention, a transport pod (1) can be coupled to an article-passing opening (11) of process equipment (9) in leaktight manner with sealing being provided by an interposed interface peripheral gasket (16). The pod door (4) can be secured selectively to the interface door (12) so that they can be moved together as a unit along an axial stroke followed by a transverse stroke under drive from door actuator means (14). The transport pod (1) is held by retaining means (15). The peripheral volume (21) around the two doors can be pumped out by means of a pump (22) and a duct (23). The pod door (4) can be locked on the transport door (1) by locking means (20) that guarantee good sealing while the transport pod (1) is separate from the process equipment (9). This ensures good sealing of the transport pod (1), and enables the doors (4, 12) to be opened under a vacuum without polluting the inside atmosphere.

Abstract: A female hydraulic coupling member is disclosed which comprises a first flow port; a second flow port; a third flow port in fluid communication with both the first flow port and the second flow port; a first poppet valve for opening and closing the first flow port; and a second poppet valve for opening and closing the second flow port, the second poppet valve being connected to the first poppet valve such that the second poppet valve moves to the closed position when the first poppet valve is open and moves to the open position when the first poppet valve is closed.

Abstract: A flow controller adapted to control a flow of fluid within the flow controller, the flow controller having a flow path adapted to convey said fluid, wherein the cross-sectional area of the flow path varies along the flow path and wherein in at least a portion of its length the flow controller comprises an active surface capable of influencing the fluid flow through the flow path to cause vortical motion of the fluid within the fluid pathway.

Abstract: In sealing elements (3, 3?, 3?) made of synthetic material (14) having embedded fiber reinforcement (11), as it has been used for some time for automatic compressor valves, the fiber reinforcement (11) consists of at least one piece of an essentially flat, non-woven fiber fabric (12), which has, at least in its plane, a directionally independent (random) fiber orientation. Disadvantages of short-fibered reinforced synthetic materials can thereby be avoided, as well as the ones for synthetic materials reinforced by means of long-fibered fabrics, and sealing elements (3, 3?, 3?) may be obtained thereby having a very high durability.

Abstract: The invention relates to a suspension device for at least one drive part (10) that is to be cushioned. Said part can be connected to an accumulator device (12) by means of a first valve unit (28) and to a tank connection (46) by means of a second valve unit (34) in order to transport fluid. The device is provided with a pressure compensation device (50), which when actuated compares the respective prevailing pressures in the drive part (10) and the accumulator device (12) in order to generate a common pressure level. This permits the pressure level to be rapidly compensated in advance when the actual suspension is enabled in the form of the accumulator device, in such a way that the suspension pressure employed exactly matches the pressure of the respective drive part in the form of a hydraulic or working cylinder that prevails in the latter as a result of the preceding load actuation operations.

Abstract: An elbow for a dryer exhaust vent conduit. The elbow can have two nestable channel sections, each channel section having a generally C-shaped cross-section, which may be substantially semi-circular. Each channel section has a connection mechanism along at least one side such that the two channel sections are joinable to form a substantially tubular conduit which has a smooth interior surface, reducing friction losses to the airflow speed of the dryer exhaust. Each channel section can be curved in a large radius arc to provide a turn to the elbow, which may extend around a quarter circle to provide a 90° turn to the dryer exhaust vent conduit. Snap fit locking tabs may lock the two channel sections together. Ends of the elbow may fit into or outside adjoining conduit pipes. The channel sections can be nested for ease of transport and storage and can be easily assembled on site.

Abstract: A shaft rod 2) according to the invention has, particularly in its mid region, a particularly low mass. The shaft rod has an upper ledge (11) and a lower ledge (12) which have a reduced thickness in the mid region of the shaft rod. As a result, the load induced by acceleration forces is significantly less in the mid region than in conventional constructions. By virtue of the reduced acceleration forces, the extent of bending of the shaft rods in the middle is less and therefore a shaft rod of such a structure is better adapted for use in very rapidly operating weaving machines.

Abstract: An industrial two-layer fabric obtained by alternately arranging, on an upper surface side thereof, (a) a warp complete design made of a design in which a warp passes over one upper surface side weft and then passes under one upper surface side weft, and any one of the following warp complete designs of: (b) a warp complete design made of a design in which a warp passes over two upper surface side wefts and then passes under two upper surface side wefts, (c) a warp complete design made of a design in which a warp passes over one upper surface side weft and then passes under three upper surface side wefts, (d) a warp complete design made of a design in which a warp passes over three upper surface side wefts and then passes under one upper surface side weft, and others.

Abstract: A handheld pressure sprayer and method for operating the sprayer that eliminates the requirement for a hand-operated pump or a compressor. The sprayer includes a tank with an opening through which a liquid can be introduced into the tank, a spray wand and nozzle assembly fluidically connected to the tank for dispensing the liquid therefrom, a canister releasably secured to the tank and containing a gas under pressure, a fitting coupling the canister to the tank and adapted to allow the canister to be replaced with a second canister, and a device for selectively dispensing the gas from the canister through the fitting to the tank.

Abstract: A sliding stem seal assembly for a fluid dispenser. In one embodiment, an insertable module retains a stem seal and a housing seal even when disengaged from the housing of the dispenser. The module isolates the stem seal from the housing such that it contacts the stem and a low friction surface of the module, and the module also isolates the housing seal from movement of the stem, for reduced wear from the housing and the moving stem.

Abstract: The present invention is a tool holder for use in securing a cutting tool or cutting tooth to a cutting wheel of a stump cutting apparatus. The tool holder is typically held to the cutting wheel of the stump cutting apparatus with a threaded fastener. The tool holder includes a bore therein operative to receive the threaded fastener. The bore includes a threaded portion and a non-threaded portion, the non-threaded portion positioned adjacent the inner surface of the tool holder. Whereby, the shank portion of the threaded fastener fits within the non-threaded portion of the tool holder such that the shank portion of the threaded fastener extends across the tool holder/cutting wheel interface.

Abstract: A depth adjustment mechanism, disposed on a router, is enabled using a worm drive that includes a shaft member engaging with a rack member. The shaft member couples with a sleeve disposed on a base of the router. The rack member is coupled with a motor casing of the router. The depth adjustment mechanism enables a user selectable engagement of the shaft member with the rack member. A rotating member, which is coupled with the shaft member, is engaged by a user to displace the shaft member relative to the rack member. The selective engagement of the shaft member with the rack member and rotation enabled by the rotating member enables continuous metered depth adjustment for the router.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router with a drive shaft lock mechanism. In an exemplary aspect of the present invention, a router with a drive shaft lock mechanism includes: (1) a motor housing for at least partially containing a motor for rotating a drive shaft, the drive shaft being suitable for receiving a router bit; (2) a shaft lock, mounted to the motor housing, for selectively engaging the drive shaft to prevent rotation; (3) a base unit for adjustably receiving the motor housing; and (4) a shaft lock actuator coupled to the base unit, the shaft lock actuator being configured to obtain a released position and a locked position, wherein the shaft lock actuator, when disposed in the locked position, causes the shaft lock to be in an engaging position for preventing the drive shaft from rotation when the drive shaft is disposed adjacent the shaft lock actuator.

Abstract: A wood splitter (1) comprises a splitting wedge (2), a guide bar (3) connected to it at the back (2a) of the splitting wedge (2), and a drop weight (4) movable along the guide bar (3) and encircling the guide bar (3) in cross section. The guide bar (3) is provided with an external thread (3a) at its end area facing the splitting wedge (2) and is screwed into a threaded bore (2b) sunk into the wedge back (2a). There is an intermediate plastic sleeve (5) between the drop weight (4) and the splitting wedge (2), with the longitudinal axis (L) of the guide bar (3) running perpendicularly to the opposing faces (5b, 2b) of the intermediate sleeve (5) and the back (2a) of the wedge. These measures provide a wood splitter (1) with which the risk of damaging the junction between the splitting wedge (2) and the guide bar (3) is distinctly reduced, even with large drop weights (4) and corresponding impact forces.

Abstract: A stake manufacturing system for effectively recycling waste boards into a stake product. The stake manufacturing system includes providing a plurality of waste boards, creating one or more tooth joints in each of the waste boards, gluing the tooth joints together to form an elongate base board, planing the base board to a desired thickness, cutting the planed board to a desired length and width, and cutting a spiked end into the planed board. The resulting product may thereafter be utilized as a conventional stake for marking boundaries and locations.