Abstract: A lace-up device for tightening an article of footwear, providing for the tieing of the lacing without causing discomfort to the user's hands, as well as to the article of footwear equipped with such device. The lace-up device includes a gripping mechanism arranged on the linkage in the area of a loop formed by the lacing outside the tightening zone. The gripping device includes a rigid frame, making it possible to distribute the tension of the lacing over the hand of the user.

Abstract: A metal toecap for safety shoes includes an arcuate peripheral wall that tapers forward, a top wall, and a bottom wall, defining a rear opening for receiving toes of a user. The peripheral wall and the top wall are connected by an upper arcuate transition section with a thickness that increases toward the top wall such that the top wall has a thickness greater than that of the peripheral wall. The impact-resisting property of the top wall is thus improved.

Abstract: An insole for use in a shoe or other footwear which enables a better fit for feet that are narrower in girth than the upper of a shoe and/or narrower than the width of the sole. The insoles are also useful in footwear that have uppers that have stretched over time and/or feet that change in size due to swelling or weight gain and weight loss. The insole has at least one pair of flaps that are substantially vertical or perpendicular with respect to the insole pad when inserted into the footwear, and are positioned between a wearer's foot and the sidewalls of the upper, thus adjusting the inner girth of the footwear and decreasing the space within the upper. The insoles can be manufactured with varying thicknesses of the insole pad and/or flaps, or alternatively, a kit with removable, interchangeable and replaceable flaps and insoles of varying thicknesses can be made that enable the user to choose the insole and/or flaps which provide the best fit in varying types and styles of footwear.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes upper and a sole structure. The upper defines an interior void that is configured to receive the sole structure and a foot. A lower surface of the upper defines a plurality of apertures, and the sole structure includes a plurality of projections that extend through the apertures to form a ground-engaging surface. The projections are connected to a foot-supporting member that remains within the upper. A locking system is incorporated into the upper and sole structure to secure the sole structure to the upper.

Abstract: The snowshoe includes an opened U-shaped frame supporting a semi-rigid decking having a toe hole and a harness pivotally attached to the decking near the toe hole. The absence of a rear tail portion on the frame forms a gap that helps prevent the dragging effect of the snowshoe while it trails on the ground during gait. Also, the harness is pivotally attached to the decking by means of a harness attachment that includes an anti-torsion shoulder that will abut on the edge of the decking in the toe hole, to prevent the harness from rotating about an axis that is transversal to the decking.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of classifying a foot into a foot type. The method includes the steps of visualizing the foot, wherein the foot is in a standing position,or in a walking or running motion, assessing a plurality of characteristics of said foot, and classifying the foot into a foot type. The classification is based on the visualization of the foot during a standing position or in a walking or running motion and is further based on the assessment of the plurality of characteristics exhibited by the foot.

Abstract: A shoe comprising a sole which is provided, in its heel, with a tank in which pressurized air is accumulated by a pump actuated by the heel of the foot during normal walking. The shoe is provided with a foot supporting insole, which is provided with a plurality of holes in which a plurality of studs move at right angles to the ground; the studs are associated with an elastic chamber, which is connected to the air tank with the interposition of a discharge valve, which acts when the pressure inside the tank has reached a preset value; the studs accordingly act impulsively against the sole of the foot at preset intervals.

Abstract: The present invention refers to a steam ironing apparatus, which comprises a smoothing iron that is provided frontally with a nozzle 18, as well as a conduit 11 communicating with said nozzle 18 for the passage of steam therethrough; the ejection of steam from the nozzle 18 is controlled with the aid of valve means 13. The apparatus further comprises control means 17 for the actuation of the valve means 13, as well as containment means 21 for a liquid L that are in communication with the conduit 11 so that the steam flowing through the conduit 11 mixes up with the liquid L flowing in from the containment means 21 so as to produce humidified steam X12 for ejection through the nozzle 18.

Abstract: An ironing pad having a relatively flexible laminate structure including among its layers an integrally formed, independent layer supporting hollow core units which are disposed adjacent to one another and being received in an individual pocket formed in overlying layers of a closed-sided envelope, and in which hollow core is formed of a plurality of contiguous adjacent open-cell cavities which provide a heat barrier in addition to a layer of relatively high-compressive strength for supporting the weight of steam or flat iron pressing of fabric materials. The pad assembly may include three separate hollow core heat barrier units in hinged relationship with one another to provide a relatively shortened lengthwise dimension to the entire assembly when the end units are folded.

Abstract: Seam puckering on a sewn product made of cellulosic fibers, synthetic fibers and/or animal fibers can be prevented from occurring by simply applying a (meth)acrylate resin finish and/or a polyester resin finish to the seams on the sewn product, then hot pressing the seam. The addition of an acidic catalyst, a polyether compound, or a combination of a cellulose-reactive resin finish with an acidic catalyst to the (meth)acrylate finish and/or polyester resin finish provides a better seam pucker preventing effect on cellulosic fibers than do existing cellulose-reactive resin finishes.

Abstract: Containers, and label panels for use with them, are described for receiving shipping parcel. One container embodiment incorporates a closable body having an interior and a mouth communicating with the interior. A label substrate is supported by the container body and includes return address indicia. A transparent layer overlays the return address indicia so that it may be seen there through. The transparent layer includes an exposed surface portion formed of a release material for removeably receiving a shipping label. A label panel for use with a container includes a substrate securable to the container's body which is provided with the return address indicia, and a transparent film adhered to the label substrate for receiving the shipping label.

Abstract: Diorama balls contain a liquid and fine particles not individually visible to the unaided eye. The fine particles exert a “fog-like” effect particularly suitable for marine and aero dioramas.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for projecting light to simulate flames on a screen for use in an electric fireplace with an imitation flame display. The apparatus comprises a hollow cylinder enclosing an interior region, the cylinder being rotatable about an axis of the cylinder and having a sidewall with an exterior surface and a non-reflective interior surface with apertures through the sidewall. A light source in the interior region is operated to cause light to be transmitted through the apertures onto the screen to simulate moving flames when the cylinder is rotated. This arrangement provides an improved imitation flame display on the screen. When incorporated into an electric fireplace, the apparatus provides a pleasing illusion of active, dancing flames adjacent an artificial log set.

Abstract: An illuminated address sign (20) including a housing (22), a lens (24) positioned in the housing, an at least semi-transparent, flame-retardant barrier (26) positioned in the housing adjacent the lens, and an electroluminescent light source (28) positioned in the housing adjacent the barrier. Housing (22) includes a front surface (30) having an opening (32), first and second side surfaces, (34) and (36), respectively, top and bottom surfaces, (38) and (40), respectively, and an open internal cavity (42) opposite the front surface. Lens (24) includes a display side (52) and an internal side (54) with side (52) being visible through opening (32) and side (54) positioned in cavity (42). Barrier (26) includes a front side (56) and a back side (58) and is positioned in cavity (42) with side (56) in contact with side (54) of lens (24) and side (58) positioned in cavity (42). Light source (28) is positioned in cavity (42) adjacent and/or in contact with side (58) of barrier (26).

Abstract: A sign includes a housing, and at least one symbol plate that provides a visual representation of at least one symbol. A symbol plate attaches to the housing in at least two orientations relative to the housing. Optionally, a symbol plate has at least one cutout that provides the visual representation. Optionally, the housing includes a light source that emits light waves that pass through cutouts to illuminate visual representations. Optionally, a sign includes a sheet, disposable between the housing and a symbol plate, and adapted to filter at least one color from the light waves. The at least two orientations can include a first position, and a second position 90 degrees to the first position. Optionally, a sign includes a cover, or a cover and a deluxe plate, having at least one respective opening that exposes the visual representation.

Abstract: The electronic display system displays advertisements, traffic and weather information on a display panel mounted to the license plate support of an automobile or any vehicle when the vehicle is moving beneath a predetermined threshold speed. The display can be mounted elsewhere, for example, anywhere on the rear or sides of a larger vehicle such as a van, bus or truck, where it will be readily seen. Once the vehicle exceeds the predetermined threshold speed, the display changes, showing vehicle license plate information, such as the license plate number, State of registration, etc. The electronic display system includes a programmable electronic display, driven by a display driver, and an electronic control module that allows information to be sent to and shown on the electronic display.

Abstract: A removable wallpaper banner having themed indicia thereon. The wallpaper generally includes an elongate and substantially flat rectangular sheet of material comprising a first surface and a second surface, wherein the second surface is disposed in opposition to the first surface; a non-permanent and removable adhesive associated with the second surface of the sheet of material and adapted for non-permanently and removably associating the sheet of material with a building structure wall; and a plurality of themed indicia associated with the first surface of the sheet of material. The themed indicia is related to at least one of a holiday-related theme, such as a Christmas-related theme, a Thanksgiving-related theme, a Halloween-related theme, an Easter-related theme, a 4th of July-related theme, a St.

Abstract: A billboard advertising system is disclosed. The billboard advertising system includes an overhead sign structure at least partially traversing a roadway, said overhead sign structure having forward and rearward faces relative to oncoming vehicle traffic of the roadway. The forward face of the overhead sign structure has traffic information as part of a government regulated traffic information system directed in a primary orientation toward the oncoming vehicle traffic. The rearward face of the overhead sign structure on an opposing side from the forward face has a secondary orientation with respect to other traffic flow different from the oncoming vehicle traffic. A billboard advertisement is positioned on the rearward face of the overhead sign structure with visual exposure to the other traffic flow.

Abstract: A vehicle locator and service hang card for vehicle parking and servicing establishments includes an upper portion with a tag number and space for entering customer information and a lower portion made of synthetic paper which an ignition key tag is die cut. The key tag retains its strength when wet. The lower portion may be attached to the upper portion by an adhesive tape.

Abstract: A vehicle identification and locator card for vehicle parking and servicing establishments includes an upper portion made of paper board and a lower portion made of synthetic paper. The outline of an ignition key tag is die cut in the lower synthetic paper portion, which retains its strength when wet. The lower portion has a backing of either a dry release laminate patch or a polyester reinforcing tape.

Abstract: An identification and tracking device (110b) for use in combination with a firearm bullet (100) comprising a means for detaching the device (110b) from the bullet (100) during penetration of the target. In this manner, the tracking device (110b) and/or identification device (110b) will be attached to an object when the bullet (100) penetrates the object.

Abstract: A fireworks device having a body that is constructed of a single flexible sheet, which is folded around a tubular reservoir and forms front and rear opposable surfaces allowing a user to grip said surfaces and operate the fireworks device with one hand. The device includes a trigger that protrudes outwardly from the body near the front surface and is depressable to activate a discharge firecracker located within the reservoir. Upon activation, the discharge firecracker creates pressure sufficient to project contents from the reservoir outward and in a direction desired by a user. The contents preferably include confetti in the form of streamers and impact initiated firecrackers.

Abstract: A retrieval aid intended for use with a flexible line having an object located at the end of the line, the retrieval aid comprising a shaft (11) having a line engagement member (13) mounted at one end, said engagement member being readily engagable with the line whereby when engaged with the line the engagement member surrounds the line and is capable of movement along the line wherein the engagement member is formed as a coil comprising more than one turn but less than two turns and wherein the plane of the engagement member is inclined to the central axis of the shaft and extends outwardly from the end of the shaft.

Abstract: A fishing rod includes a stable arm and a moveable arm. The stable arm has a first stable arm end and a second stable arm end. The moveable arm has a first moveable arm end and a second moveable arm end. The moveable arm is pivotally coupled to the stable arm and the second moveable arm end is biased to a first position remote from the second stable arm end.

Abstract: A combination walking stick and support apparatus for outdoor sport fishing, hunting, and camping is disclosed. The multiple function device includes a ground engaging, rigid support that; when engaged with the ground along with the stabilizing footing, safely holds a fishing rod or a hunting long gun in a generally upright position and at the ready for the outdoor enthusiast An integral beverage holder is fixed to the device and effectively works to secure beverages off of the ground in all applications. The formed handle support tip works effectively as a camp utility hook. The design balance and materials integration allows for a light weight, portable and efficient walking stick tool that works in multiple scenarios and significantly enhances the outdoors enthusiast experience.

Abstract: A cage engages a fishing bait. The cage is formed of a dried and compressed plant matter fabric of a thickness not greater than approximately 0.060. The plant matter fabric provides a portion having plural perforations, wherein the perforations comprise at least 50% of a surface area of the first portion. The cage forms an open first end for passing the fishing bait into the cage. A fishing hook is pressed through the cage and bait to hold these two elements securely while fishing.

Abstract: A multiple hook fishing lure has three hooks, the shank portions of which extend in a parallel spaced-apart configuration from a weighted head member. In a preferred embodiment, the shank members lie in a common plane with the outer most two hook members also lying in the same plane. The hook portion of the central hook and the eyelet lie in a second plane that is substantially normal to the plane of the shank members. The three hooks are capable of flexing independently from each other. Accordingly, the fishing jig is set more easily and is more difficult for the fish to throw.

Abstract: A method for constructing a fly for fishing from fly-making materials and a hook is provided. The method may include tying fly-making materials to a hook, applying heat fusible fibers to the fly-making materials or to the hook, and shaping said heat fusible fibers through a heating process to create iridescent colored body parts for the fly. The heat fusible fibers may be shaped through a heating process with a hot iron or with heated air at temperatures ranging from one hundred and forty to two hundred degrees Fahrenheit for two to ten seconds.

Abstract: An Adjustable Trolling Device, or dodger, consisting of a flat primary body and configured to be removably attached at one or more points along its edge to a primary fishing line, and at other points on its edge, at least some of which may be substantially opposite to the point where it is affixed to the primary fishing line, to trailing fishing bait, or lures. The device has an attached mounting surface, rotatable through 360°, or a specified range, projecting one or more guiding fins, substantially perpendicular to the rotatable mounting surface. The mounting surface, by its nature, may be rotated to place the guiding fins at alternate desired angles from the leading fishing line, so that movement of the dodger through the water may produce a variety of rotation or roll characteristics of the dodger and, correspondingly, the trailing bait or lures.

Abstract: A float including at least two structural members, enclosing a cavity having a volume which is variable by means of a relative movement of the structural members, said relative movement resulting in a change of the buoyancy of the float. According to the invention, the float includes a volume which is intended to be filled with water through an opening when the float is immersed in water, as well as an evacuating duct through which air is intended to flow out of the volume when the water flows in through the opening.

Abstract: In ice fishing the fishing line passes through top and bottom holes in a container for liquid allow the fishing line to move through the container when pulled. A non-freezing liquid is poured from a supply into the container arranged such that the fishing line can move through the container when pulled with the non-freezing liquid preventing the line from freezing to the container or to the holes therein. The line may have a plug for butting against the bottom one of the holes to temporarily prevent the escape of liquid prior to the container being dropped into the ice fishing hole when the water will prevent the escape of the liquid.

Abstract: A mechanism for supporting a treble hook on a tip up. The invention comprises a base member for affixing the mechanism to a tip-up supporting a rod and reel; at least two u-shaped side supports affixed to opposite ends of the base member, said side supports having axially aligned holes to hold and support two rod members; support member and having two apertures for aligning with and sliding on the rods and having recessed walls configured to secure and support a treble hook in a locked position; spring means affixed to the rods for biasing the support member in a first position such that when the reel and line is locked, the treble hook is locked and secured.

Abstract: Disclosed is a utility pipe tape to act as a termite barrier and a support for a waterproof membrane to prevent gaps from forming between pipe and slab that lets ground termites in through the slab.

Abstract: The invention relates to a low-sulfur diesel fuel containing a maximum amount of 0.2% by weight of sulfur and fatty acid monoalkyl esters in an amount of between 10 and 50,000 ppm as lubricity improvers, with the fatty acid moieties of the fatty acid monoalkyl esters originating from saturated fatty acids by at least 50%, in particular by at least 70%. It has been shown that said fatty acid esters show a substantially better lubricity improvement in a low-sulfur diesel fuel than a biodiesel made of rape oil and soy bean oil.

Abstract: A hydride containing fuel composition for a liquid fuel cell. The composition comprises an alkaline liquid phase and at least two hydride compounds. The solubility of the first hydride compound in the liquid phase is higher than the solubility of a second hydride compound in the liquid phase and the opposite is true for the anodic oxidation products thereof. This Abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A method of producing a fuel or concentrate thereof for a fuel cell. The method comprises providing a solution of at least one hydroxide ion providing compound in a liquid medium and combining and mixing one or more hydride compounds with this solution to provide a colloidal dispersion of the hydride compound(s) in the alkaline medium. This Abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: An evergreen tree stand with safety and filling features includes a base container, a tree hold-and-lock mechanism and a watering mechanism. The base container has an open top and is adapted to receive and hold water and a cut evergreen tree. The tree hold-and-lock mechanism is connected to the base container top and operates like a drill chuck. It has vertically disposed plates facing the center that are functionally connected to a tree chuck collar. The collar is rotatable in clockwise and counterclockwise directions. When the tree chuck collar is rotated in direction, the plates move toward the imaginary vertical center line, and when the tree chuck collar is rotated in the other direction, the plates move away from the imaginary vertical center line. This enables a user to tighten and loosen the mechanism to hold and release a cut tree such as a Christmas tree.

Abstract: A plant cultivation container includes a waste tire rubber, and a saturated resin mixed with the waste tire rubber. Thus, the waste tire rubber has a plurality of concave and convex surfaces arranged in a staggered manner and a plurality of gaps located between the concave and convex surfaces so that the plant can climb along the waste tire rubber, thereby facilitating cultivation of the plant. In addition, the plant cultivation container reuses the waste tire rubber to provide a recycling effect, thereby preventing the waste tire rubber from causing an environmental pollution so as to protect the ambient environment.

Abstract: In a horticultural growing system including a container comprising an inactive growing medium, the container is shaped as a sealed bag or box of a material capable of containing the inactive medium together with water while remaining dry on the outer surface, and allowing for absorption and subsequent draining of water. The inactive growing medium is in the form of a mixture of lava products and clay products in proportioned mutual ratios, said mixture including one or more constituents selected from among pumice stone, Perlite, clay materials, light clinker and lava, but is can also contain zeolites and/or vermiculite and other constituents. The growing system provides environmental and economically advantages in that it can be used for up to five years without having to change the medium. In this time period, it is possible to produce 300 kg of tomatoes in one box.

Abstract: Aiming at achieving a fully improved effect of combustion efficiency and being durable for long-term use, a fuel reformer 1 of the present invention, typically disposed on a fuel supply path from a fuel tank of a vehicle to an engine, is configured so that a petroleum-derived liquid fuel reserved in the fuel tank of the vehicle is introduced through the fuel supply path and through an introduction port 52 into a cylindrical container 4, and and allowing it to modify with the aid of the first fuel-reforming grains 2, the second fuel-reforming grains 3 and permanent magnet 71. The engine supplied with thus-modified liquid fuel through the discharge port 53 raises effects of improving the combustion efficiency, improving the fuel cost, and reducing the emission gas.

Abstract: A gas generator with the sole input of air, water and coal that continuously produces hydrogen and carbon monoxide and further reacts these two gases into alcohol. This gas generator/reactor is using its own by-products and is therefore also self sustaining.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method for preparing a polishing slurry, comprising dispersing polishing particles and an anionic polymeric acid in water and then adding to the resulting dispersion an alkaline material in an amount of 0.1 to 8 weight parts based on 100 weight parts of the polishing particles. The polishing slurry obtained by the inventive method exhibits good dispersion stability and non-Prestonian polishing performance, which can be beneficially employed in chemical mechanical polishing of various precision electronic devices.

Abstract: A ceramics sintered material cutting tool, characterizing in that it has a dislocation structure which formed on the surface thereof in a straight line from and distributed uniformity in a dislocation density of 1×104 to 9×1013 cm?2. The cutting tool is improved in a fracture toughness value and the resistance to thermal shock and thus has a prolonged life. The above cutting tools include, in particular, a twist drill and a throw away tip.

Abstract: Methods of making superabrasive tools having improved retention of superabrasive particles in a metal matrix are provided. Such methods may include providing a substrate, providing superabrasive particles, chemically bonding the superabrasive particles with the metal matrix to a degree which holds the superabrasive particles in the metal matrix without substantially degrading the superabrasive particles, and metallurgically bonding the superabrasive particles to the substrate with the metal matrix.

Abstract: A snow and ice resistant gutter system which more effectively and efficiently prevents the formation of ice dams. The gutter system comprises an elongated gutter adapted to be affixed to a building and a heating element for placement in the gutter for melting snow and ice which accumulates on or in the gutter. The gutter includes at least one wall defining a water-carrying channel and an elongated slot formed in the wall. The slot is sized and configured for receiving the heating element therein. The elongated slot has a depth approximately equal to the diameter of the heating element so that the heating element is generally flush with the top surface of the gutter wall so as not to block the flow of water or trap debris in the gutter.

Abstract: A system for integrating a garage into the main unit of a manufactured building includes a removable shipping wall defining an first interior space; the removable shipping wall further comprises a removable left extension wall; a removable right extension wall; a removable left garage door wall; and, a removable right garage door wall. The removable left extension wall, the removable right extension wall, the removable left garage door wall, and the removable right garage door wall define a second interior space when the left and right removable extension walls are connected at a substantially right angle to the main unit and the left and right garage door walls are connected at a substantially right angle to the left and right extension walls, respectively. Thus, the first and second interior spaces define a space for the integrated garage.

Abstract: A roof clip, including: a straight portion, one or more prongs on a side of the straight portion, and a semi-looped portion adjacent the straight portion. Preferably, the roof clip is 0.75 inches wide, the straight portion is 4 inches long, the prongs are 0.25 inches long, and the semi-looped portion has a diameter of 0.3125 ( 5/16) inches. The semi-looped portion can be curved toward the side that has the prongs or away from the side that has the prongs. The roof clip can have a single semi-looped portion or can also include a second semi-looped portion adjacent the first semi-looped portion. The semi-looped portions preferably are substantially semicircular. The roof clip preferably includes a 0.25 inches wide opening in the semi-looped portion whereby the roof clip can be pried up from a roof in which the prongs are embedded. Also, a method of using the roof clip.

Abstract: A water deflecting apparatus comprises a mounting plate with a back surface and a front surface. The back surface of the mounting plate abuts the wall when the water deflecting apparatus is mounted to the wall. A deflector extends outwardly from the front surface of the mounting plate near each end of the mounting plate. The mounting plate of the wall mounting bracket is received between the deflectors when the water deflecting apparatus and the wall mounting bracket are mounted to the wall. The deflectors deflect the downward flow of water. A skirt extends between the deflectors and outwardly from the front surface of the mounting plate of the water deflecting apparatus. The skirt is located below the mounting plate of the wall mounting bracket and is received between the deflectors when the water deflecting apparatus and the wall mounting bracket are mounted to the wall.

Abstract: An extensible device for applying a material to an elevated location, such as into an ice filled rain gutter. The device includes an elongated handle having at least first and second telescopically interconnecting and linearly adjustable sections. A volume holding container secures to an extending end of the handle, a centerline extending through the container extending at an angle relative to a linearly extending centerline associated with the handle. In this fashion, and upon a user situated upon a ground location rotating the handle about the linearly extending centerline, the particulate contents held within the container are caused to be poured therefrom at the elevated location and into the gutter such as to melt the ice filled contents.

Abstract: A break-away post includes a post portion, a base portion, and a shear pin. The post portion includes a mounting base and an aperture disposed through the mounting base. The base portion includes a mounting head having an aperture disposed therethrough. The shear pin includes a compressible ring portion adapted to be inserted through the aperture of the mounting head when the mounting head is disposed through the aperture of mounting base thereby coupling the post portion to the base portion.