Abstract: A fishing lure. The lure has a tail segment which is coupled to a forebody segment. The tail segment can quickly attach and detach from the forebody segment. A flexible reinforcing membrane with an open cell structure runs along the backbone axis of the tail segment. The tail segment is made of a soft body material such as a lure plastisol. The flexible reinforcing membrane acts as a bridge securing the plastisol to a terminal at the forward portion of the tail segment which interoperates as either the male or female section of the couple with the forebody male or female segment section.

Abstract: Fisherman's Tackle Box would consist of a large, rectangular tackle box. The tackle box would be equipped with an outer housing made from a weather-resistant, impact-resistant plastic, metal latches, a rectangular lid, a cooler with artificial ice packs, fishing rod holders and a storage compartment for live bait. The tackle box would also include drawers with compartments for holding hooks, weights, sinkers, and lures, a detachable fishing stool attached to the rear of the tackle box, a carrying handle, hooks, a side-mounted utility holder for knives or other hand tools, a side-mounted holder for miscellaneous items, two doors with pockets for lures, a spool holder for four to five spools of fishing line, small holes in the lid to allow fishing line to pass through, a bar in which the line passes through, and a line tensioner to hold the line in place, a cover for the handle and the line holder and a ruler for measuring fish.

Abstract: A triggering apparatus for a rotating-frame animal trap including a collapsible enclosure capable of supporting the trap in set position in alignment with the enclosure entrance, the enclosure having a separate bait container mounted within its interior and a triggering lever extending within the bait container, whereupon movement of the lever within the bait container causes rotation of a release shaft that frees a catch holding the trap in set position, thereby firing the trap and pinning the animal within the trap's rotating jaws. The catch includes a detent that holds the jaws of the trap in set position against the body of the enclosure adjacent its entrance, such that the animal must pass through the set jaws of the trap in order to access the bait container.

Abstract: A trap for catching woodland, garden, and agricultural insect pests, consisting of a catching part (37) with an outlet opening, and a container (31) for storing caught pests, has a device for separating the captured pests from water and small debris. The device for separating the captured pests from water and small debris is placed between the outlet opening of the catching part and the container. The device for separating the caught pests from water and small debris has a shape of a funnel (135) having a funnel inlet covered up by a mesh (32) and an funnel outlet (36) situated outside of the container (31) for storing the caught pests. The funnel inlet is placed below the outlet opening of the catching part (37).

Abstract: An insect trap comprising: a cap; a container removeably coupled to the cap; an aperture located on the cap forming a passage way from outside of the container to the interior of the container; the aperture comprising an exterior-side and a container-side; and a supple sleeve located adjacent to the container-side of the aperture. A supple sleeve configured to be attached to at least one aperture wall forming an aperture in an insect trap.

Abstract: A candle refill kit useful for preparing home made candles includes a disposable microwaveable container and a microwaveable candlewax composition. The candlewax composition is microwave heated in the microwaveable container to an elevated temperature sufficient to initiate pouring of the candlewax composition. The candlewax composition is then poured from the microwaveable container into a candle mold (to make a stand-alone candle) or a candle container (to make a container candle).

Abstract: A microemulsion composition for treatment of pollution comprises a first component including any non-toxic, non-flammable surfactant known in the art for emulsifying fats and oils. The second component is a water soluble ester. The third component is a carbon containing non-toxic, non-flammable stabilizer for diluting the composition to a viscosity suitable for spraying or otherwise distributing the emulsion safely and evenly onto or into petroleum contaminated water. The emulsion is assimilated by the contamination such that hydrocarbon in the petroleum/water medium forms an agglomerated solid phase whereby the entire petroleum medium is physically separable from the water.

Abstract: A process, method, apparatus and materials for efficient conversion of waste vegetable oils into biofuel that does not use methanol as a reactant or catalyst. The resulting biofuel is mixed with kerosene or heavy oil to form a stable diesel fuel grade fuel that is mixable with diesel fuel. In addition, the process and apparatus are also applicable to the conversion of virgin vegetable oils and other waste or virgin oils, such as used motor oil, into fuels or fuel additives.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel additive and a process for using and making the fuel additive. The fuel additive includes a non-acidic boron-containing salt in a carrier fluid. The fuel additive enhances combustion by increasing fuel efficiency or decreased pollutant output in an exhaust gas resulting from combustion of the fuel with the fuel additive.

Abstract: Aviation fuel, such as jet fuel, blends and methods for improving cold flow properties of such fuels at extremely low temperatures are disclosed. Cold flow properties of, for example, JP-8 based jet fuels are improved by addition to the fuel of a variety of C10-C16 alkyl poly(meth)acrylate esters and polyvinylesters of C10-C16 alkanoic acids. Demonstratable cold flow improvement of such fuels at temperatures of about ?53° C. and below is shown.

Abstract: Low temperature biodiesel blends prevent or inhibit filter problems at low temperature including temperatures at or near the cloud point of biodiesel blends. The novel biodiesel fuels may be formulated to contain low water content or can include chemical additives such as glycol ethers to prevent or inhibit low temperature filter deposits.

Abstract: Abstract: The invention relates to a solid fuel element 10 which includes a body 12 of combustible material which is impregnated with an accelerant composition, including a liquid fuel and an evaporation inhibiting agent. In one embodiment the body 12 is sealed with a flammable sealant 14. The invention extends to a method of making a solid fuel element.

Abstract: A point-of-use liquid application device adapted to be selectively adhered to a plant and activated by the fingers of a human hand. Upon activation a liquid solution is released from a liquid-tight fluid reservoir and is delivered to an individual predetermined plant. The device incorporates a primary substrate with at least one adhesive area; a backing substrate releasably covering the at least one adhesive area; a liquid-tight fluid reservoir containing a liquid solution at least partially attached to the primary substrate; and a dispersion strip in contact with a portion of the liquid-tight fluid reservoir. The design of the device facilitates attachment to the plant by wrapping the primary substrate around a portion of the plant and attaching a portion of the at least one adhesive area to a portion of the primary substrate. The liquid solution may be an herbicide and may include an absorption enhancement agent.

Abstract: The present invention is a playground or landscaping border assembled from prefabricated component parts, each manufactured from a combination of shredded rubber bonded with an elastic adhesive urethane compound to form a porous and flexible structure for use in a playground or landscaping environment. The structure is integrated with a rigid plastic pipe having annular spaces along its side in order to serve as a drain.

Abstract: A plant stem support system having an adjustable base and adjustable top support assembly. The base is adjustable to optimally fit within pots or spaces between about two and six inches in diameter. The top support assembly includes a pair of curved arms that are pivotable to secure a range of plant sizes or number of plants. Anchors on the arms provide for attachment of the plant to the arms or attachment of a plant covering.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a soil-less sand based root zone medium for the production of sod. The present invention is also directed to a method for the production of sod using a soil-less sand based root zone medium and a sod mat produced by the method of the present invention.

Abstract: The method for treating seeds includes combining a seed treatment, a foaming agent, and a solvent to form a seed treatment composition. The seed treatment composition is foamed to form a foamed seed treatment composition. The foamed seed treatment composition is applied to the seed to form at least one treated seed. The treated seed includes a seed and a seed treatment composition applied to the seed. The seed treatment composition includes at least one seed treatment, a foaming agent, and a solvent. The seed treatment composition preferably also includes a polymer or binder.

Abstract: A method for cooling a thermoreactor and system thereof, having a noncombustible function for chemical materials pyrolysis in a hot thermoreactor that also lowers the temperature inside the hot thermoreactor, and a method for exhausting pyrolysis oil gas from a thermoreactor after batch type heating, pouring N2 or inert gas into the thermoreactor for cooling the gas until the thermoreactor achieves a predetermined pressure, and finally circulating cooling from thermoreactor; the system equipment includes a thermoreactor, a heat exchanger, a mixed gas thermoreactor, a circulation pump and a greaves settling thermoreactor.

Abstract: A system for generating hydrogen gas utilizes a volume exchange housing for the storage of a fuel material that reacts to generate hydrogen gas and a hydrogen separation chamber. The system includes a gas permeable membrane or membranes that allow hydrogen gas to pass through the membrane while preventing aqueous solutions from passing therethrough. The system is orientation independent. A throttle valve is also used to self regulate the reaction generating the hydrogen gas.

Abstract: Methanol steam reforming catalysts, and steam reformers and fuel cell systems incorporating the same. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes zinc oxide as an active component. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst further includes at least one of chromium oxide and calcium aluminate. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not pyrophoric. Similarly, in some embodiments, steam reformers including a reforming catalyst according to the present disclosure may include an air-permeable or air-accessible reforming catalyst bed. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst is not reduced during use. In some embodiments, the methanol reforming catalysts are not active at temperatures below 275° C. In some embodiments, the methanol steam reforming catalyst includes a sulfur-absorbent material. Steam reformers, reforming systems, fuel cell systems and methods of using the reforming catalysts are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system for delivering hydrogen to a vehicle is provided which includes a first hydrogen generator coupled to a first compressor. A second hydrogen generator is also provided that produces hydrogen gas at a pressure at least 2 times that produced by said first generator. Coupled to the second hydrogen generator is a second compressor that increases the pressure of the hydrogen gas produces to a desired delivery pressure. A storage vessel is coupled to both first and second compressors to store the hydrogen gas at a desired pressure level prior to dispensing.

Abstract: Reactors and methods for reducing the carbon monoxide concentration in a reactant stream are provided. The reactors are generally configured such that the gas hourly space velocity of the reactors increases along a reactant flow path between inlets and outlets of the reactors. The reactors may have preferential oxidation catalysts disposed along a reactant flow path.

Abstract: A cast hatch having a frame, a hinged cover and a lift assist mechanism. The lift assist mechanism includes a torsion spring with threaded ends. A slide block is threadedly mounted to one threaded end to provide an interface between the spring and the cover. A pressure block is threadedly mounted to the other end to provide an interface between the spring and the frame or support structure. In one embodiment, the lift assist includes two torsion springs. In this embodiment, the two torsion springs may be mounted to a single slide block at one end and mounted to separate pressure blocks at the other end. The pressure blocks may be generally rectangular and include an eccentrically disposed through bore to be fitted over a threaded end of the spring.

Abstract: A kit for installing a door assembly including a plurality of door frame brackets adapted to be attached to a door frame and to a wall having an opening in which the door assembly is to be installed, a plurality of door brackets adapted to be attached to a door and the door frame, and a lockset bracket adapted to be attached to a lockset hole formed in an edge surface of the door and to the door frame, the door brackets and the lockset bracket being operable to fix the door in relation to the door frame and said door frame brackets being operable to fix the door assembly relative to the opening.

Abstract: An auto-lock mechanism to be mounted on an image input/output device includes a first swingable element and a second swingable element. When the image input/output device is not slantwise and an upper cover of the device is opened, one of the first and second swingable elements swings but does not hook the other of the first and second elements. When the image input/output device is slantwise, both of the first and second swingable elements simultaneously swing, approach and hook each other such that the upper cover remains closed and is free from detachment to hurt a user.

Abstract: A hanging panel system which utilizes a bearing assembly for movement in a horizontal plane. The panel system utilizes a load carrying member about the periphery of the panel and an inside and outside material which define the inside and outside surfaces of the panel system. The outside material is thermally isolated from the load carrying member and the inside material. The load carrying member is conveniently steel.

Abstract: The method comprises a stage of drying of the granular materials followed by a stage of coating of the whole thereof with a hot bituminous binder. According to the invention, the drying stage is carried out in conditions which allow a fraction of the initial humidity of the granular materials to remain. The invention has application in road building.

Abstract: A composition including an abrasive, a suspension agent, a surfactant, and a lubricant, is provided for removing scratches, hazing, discoloration, and other defects from plastic surfaces. The composition is applied to a plastic surface and used to polish the surface. The defects within the surface of the plastic are removed without the removal of significant amounts of the plastic material. Accordingly, the present invention removes defects from plastic surfaces without creating optical distortion.

Abstract: The present invention is a tool insert. The tool insert includes a abrasive layer and a substrate. The abrasive layer has a periphery forming a cutting surface and is located on the substrate. The abrasive layer includes at least one of polycrystalline diamond or cubic boron nitride. The abrasive layer tool insert has a sum value of an impact resistance number and an abrasion resistance number that is ?19,000. The impact resistance number is equal to a total number of hits before failure of the tool insert. The abrasion resistance number is equal to equation (1) (1) abrasion resistance=final volume of granite removed by the tool insert (inch3)/final tool wear land area (inch2).

Abstract: A latticed net stretching and fixing structure includes at least one fixing element fixedly mounted onto a vertical wall surface of a precast wall panel and having at least one horizontal section; at least one latticed net having a plurality of arrayed meshes and a winding section provided at one end thereof for winding around the horizontal section of the fixing element to overlap the latticed net, with the meshes on the winding section aligned with the meshed on the latticed net; and at least one transverse bar for weaving through the aligned meshes on the overlapped winding section and latticed net to thereby fix the latticed net to the fixing element, allowing the latticed net to be stretched and pulled in a direction opposite to the precast wall panel without separating from the fixing element.

Abstract: The subject invention provides a system of accommodating flanged widows utilizing a novel pan flashing system in conjunction with a sill wedge, pre-formed corner flashing members and also the use of a novel clip for extending the length of the bottom window flange. The novel flange clip is preferably made from a heavy gauge galvanized material in a unique configuration, WillFlash® Flange Clips provide bottom support to the window unit, eliminating the need for shims that may also lead to damaged pan flashings in the sill area. Additionally, the Clips act as spacers to allow the pan flashing to drain, preventing bulk water form being trapped by the lower window flange. Moreover, each Clip is provided with weep holes to avoid trapping moisture/water in the interior of a u-bend formed by a pair of interconnected spaced vertical members.

Abstract: An improved sign post assembly (10) for roadway use is provided wherein a sign post (12) includes a lower section (16) adapted for anchoring to the earth, a mating upper section (20) and a magnetic coupling assembly (24) for maintaining the sections during normal use while permitting breakaway of the upper section (20) when the host (10) is struck by a vehicle. Preferably, the coupling assembly (24) includes a magnetic body (26) and a corresponding component (28) which is magnetically attracted to the body (26). In order to cause breakaway in a predetermined direction, the coupling assembly (24) has mating surfaces for the body (26) and component (28) which are in a stairstep configuration.

Abstract: A ground anchor system shaped and dimensioned for secure attachment within a support surface. The ground anchor system includes a primary anchor body extending along a longitudinal axis and including a first end and a second end. A coupling member is associated with the first end of the anchor body. A fastening assembling extends from the second end of the anchor body, the fastening assembly being composed of a plurality of downwardly extending facets, wherein each facet includes a first end and a second end. The first end of each facet is secured to the second end of the anchor body and the second end extends away from the anchor body.

Abstract: Ground anchors, in particular tent stakes (100), comprise one or more inherently flexible tines (110), a ground compression plate (160), and various tie points (420, etc.) for attaching a guy rope or the like to the top of anchor. The compression plate extends perpendicularly or at a large angle to the tine so that when the guy rope pulls on the anchor, the tine will tend to rotate about an underground fulcrum so that the compression plate will press against the ground and help the anchor resist pullout. The anchors are driven into the ground with a hammer or mallet. The tie points include hooks (420), closed holes (520), and swivel types comprising vertical members (810) with restraining, bulbous tops (820). An additional spring tie point (1600) can be inserted into optional lugs (1094, 1096) in the compression plate. The stakes can be driven into the ground vertically, or at an angle for additional holding force in some situations. They can also incorporate angled compression plates (160H, 160I).

Abstract: A storm panel assembly mounts on a structure adjacent an opening. The storm panel assembly comprises a frame having a flange for securing the frame to the structure and defines a channel having a locking tab and a first locking surface. A panel having an outer periphery is supported by the frame and a retention portion is disposed adjacent the outer periphery such that the retention portion is received within the channel. A locking insert having a second locking surface for mating with the first locking surface biases the retention portion into contact with the locking tab to secure the panel within the frame.

Abstract: A kit for installing a door assembly including a plurality of door frame brackets adapted to be attached to a door frame and to a wall having an opening in which the door assembly is to be installed and a lockset bracket adapted to be attached to a lockset hole formed in an edge surface of the door and to the door frame, the lockset bracket being operable to fix the door in relation to the door frame and the door frame brackets being operable to fix the door assembly relative to the opening.

Abstract: Concrete products, and products similar to concrete to create manmade stone-like structures, are formed with embedded paths, i.e. embedded signal pipes, for light and/or electrical current, to create microprocessor control surfaces for remotely located microprocessors. The light and/or electrical current travels through the signal pipes to activate, run or otherwise control or communicate through the microprocessor for the operation of one or more appliances.

Abstract: An office panel partition includes a panel frame having at least two uprights and a horizontal structural member rigidly interconnecting the uprights. The panel frame has a first side and a second opposite side, and the panel frame defines at least four apertures on the first side thereof. The partition also includes a cover member having a major planar surface defining an exterior surface of the partition. The cover member includes at least four projections that are removably insertable into the at least four apertures to removably secure the cover member to the frame. The apertures are arranged in at least two vertically spaced horizontal rows and at least two horizontally spaced vertical columns. The apertures in a first one of the columns have different horizontal dimensions than those of the apertures located in the other of the columns. Each of the projections has a range of lateral positions when inserted into a respective one of the apertures.

Abstract: A drywall corner bead made of high-impact plastic or other material that can be in-elastically bent to any angle at the bead itself. The corner bead can have a front layer of paper or other material capable of directly receiving paint or texture and an optional backing layer of paper or other fibrous material. The bead can be bent and re-bent inelastically as many times as needed to fit a corner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for interconnecting concrete precast floor and wall panels is provided. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention includes an adjustable connector with a captive nut that is embedded into a wall panel. A floor panel that includes an aperture integrated therethrough is placed adjacent to the adjustable connector wherein the captive nut therein may be positioned in line with the aperture. A threaded rod is then placed through the aperture of the floor panel and a nut is placed thereon thus providing a secure interconnection between the floor panel and the wall panel.

Abstract: This invention reveals new metal stud perimeter wall and load-bearing wall systems that support, without eccentricity, concrete-topped floors on open-web-steel-joists, deep-profiled composite metal decks and channel-shaped joists and allow upper floor framing to complete before floor concreting; a new composite steel beam for open-web-steel-joist support; a new shear-connection-ready open-web-steel joist; and a new perimeter metal stud wall system that incorporates an in-wall wheel-stopper. The new wall systems incorporate web-perforated studs, and/or web-perforated tracks doubling as concrete closures, and other concrete closure devices. The composite beam incorporates shear connectors protruding through a special web-perforated track fitted with a load-bearing block and cutouts in the legs for open-web-steel-joist support.

Abstract: A pre-cast panel forming system. The system includes one or more bulkheads to constrain the flow of uncured panel-forming material. The bulkhead is made up of an upstanding form and a base clip to secure the upstanding form to a panel-forming surface. The base clip is configured to promote ease of attachment to the panel-forming surface, even though the thickness dimension of the upstanding form is reduced relative to conventional forms. In accordance with 37 CFR 1.72(b), the purpose of this abstract is to enable the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract will not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.

Abstract: Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.