Abstract: A pressing iron includes a soleplate which has upwardly and downwardly facing major surfaces opposite to each other. A shell includes a peripheral wall which extends upwardly from a periphery of the soleplate to terminate at an upper peripheral edge, and which defines an air passageway that extends longitudinally. The peripheral wall is formed with a vent port disposed downstream of the air passageway. A ventilation facilitating mechanism is disposed upstream of the vent port to increase flow of air through the air passageway and out of the vent port so as to accelerate a cooling process of the flowing air that draws residual heat off the soleplate after the pressing iron is turned off.

Abstract: A license plate holder for a motor vehicle holds a vehicle license plate on the vehicle. The holder has a carrier plate to which the vehicle license plate can be fastened, and one or more devices for fastening the carrier plate to the vehicle in a license plate area provided for the vehicle license plate. Each fastening device has a base part fixedly arranged on the carrier plate and a securing part rotatably about a rotation axis arranged on the base part relatively thereto. Spaced away from the carrier plate, the securing part has at least one bracket radially projecting with respect to the rotation axis and can be swiveled about the rotation axis between a starting position and a securing position, whereby the at least one bracket 14 reaches behind a vehicle-fixed holding contour for fastening the carrier plate to the vehicle in the securing position.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a coding and personalization device for containers to allow an individual to identify the ownership of the container. The coding and personalization device includes an opaque covering over each individual indicia on a portion of the container. The opaque layer is removable or detachable to expose select indicia thereunder to provide customization of that container. Further, a method providing a customization, including removing a portion of the opaque cover on the container to visually distinguish the container from similar looking containers.

Abstract: A mount for mounting a sign to the post of an associated structure includes a base element fixedly mounted to the post that defines a hinge region and a base plane, and a support arm having a shoulder mounted at the shoulder to the base element. The support arm is pivotable about the base element between a first position parallel to the base plane and a second position transverse to the base plane. A pair of springs extend between and connect the base element and the support arm. The base element and the support arm are engaged with one another, and are maintained engaged with one another, only by the tension of the springs.

Abstract: A double sided table top display apparatus having a first double sided upright sub-assembly, a second double sided upright sub-assembly, and upper and lower horizontal cross-members, which extend between the first and second double sided upright sub-assemblies, to substantially span the desired length of the table top. A one or more horizontal cross member extension(s) may be selectively used to extend the length of the display apparatus for longer displays. A flexible sheet material with indicia thereon is releasably secured to the modular table top display apparatus at assembly, and may be rolled up for transport or storage. A rotatable clamp extends beneath the table top to secure each of the first and second upright sub-assemblies directly to the table top. Optional lighting may be supported by the rigid frame. The modular table top display apparatus my be disassembled and compactly stored in a carrying case or bag, for ease of transport and storage.

Abstract: By providing a unique housing member within which a plurality of separate display and holding members are operatively interconnected for sequential display relative to each other in a unique, cooperative, continuous, extending manner, a unique, hands-on, visually exciting and interest generating multi-panel display and holding system is realized. In the preferred construction of the present invention, a plurality of separate and independent display and/or holding members are cooperatively interconnected to each other for sequential movement relative to each other. Furthermore, each of the display/holding members are also constructed for being automatically positioned in a precisely desired continuous array in response to the receipt of pulling or movement force applied to one of the display/holding members or to a designated lead element.

Abstract: An improved identification band such as a wristband is provided for mounting onto a specific person or object. The improved identification band includes a primary identification zone adapted to receive human-readable and/or machine readable information as by printing and/or programming of a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit. The band further includes multiple detachable adhesive labels forming a portion of the band and multiple detachable cards forming a tail end extension thereof, wherein each label is adapted to receive human-readable and/or machine readable information as by printing and/or programming of a radio frequency identification (RFID) circuit. In use, such as when worn by a patient in a hospital or the like, the detachable labels and cards are individually separable from the identification band on an as-needed basis for association with other objects associated with the band wearer, such as a vial containing a patient blood sample or the like.

Abstract: A postcard with sound recording and a player therefor allows discrete, even multiple sending of a content and listening to the content via an adequate player and a security pin. The postcard of the invention is made as an optional postcard (1), one side of which is optionally graphically designed, for instance bearing a photo, and on the other side there is a field for an address and a message field, where an electronic device (2) is placed, which is intended to receive, store and transmit a voice message and consists of a microphone, a processing unit, a memory unit and a power source, e.g.

Abstract: A display plaque for a dissertation, thesis, or the like. The display plaque has a storage medium, such as a disk, with an electronic copy of the dissertation/thesis. The display plaque may additionally include other items relating to the academic institution where the dissertation/thesis was submitted, a degree obtained from the institution, and/or the author of the dissertation/thesis. This may include a diploma, image of the institution, and/or text identifying the author, institution, year of graduation, etc.

Abstract: A display device for a baseball having a generally cylindrical wood support, a base having a depression sized to receive at least part of the support and transparent cover adapted to be engaged at one end by the base. Both the support and cover can be retained into generally cylindrical cavities in said base to improve display stability and integrity. Multiple baseball could be displayed within a single base and cover.

Abstract: A muzzle-loading firearm includes a breech plug for mating, non-threaded engagement with a housing located at the breech end of an axial bore of the firearm barrel. The plug includes a cylindrically-shaped body member having opposite first and second ends and an outer surface between the ends and configured so that when the plug is positioned within the housing, the outer surface is spaced close to the inside surface of the housing to facilitate insertion and removal of the plug from the housing. The body member is formed with a primer chamber for receiving and retaining a primer or a percussion cap at the first end, and a passageway for fluidly communicating the primer chamber with a powder charge at the second end. The body member may have a powder chamber for receiving and retaining at least part of a powder charge at the second end when the firearm is loaded.

Abstract: Machine guns having detachable barrels and methods of operating the same are disclosed. An illustrated example firearm includes a housing; a removable barrel; a latch to releasably secure the barrel in the housing, the latch having a released state and a secured state; and a carrying handle movable between a rest position and a carry position. The carrying handle cooperates with the latch such that the latch can only be moved into the released state to permit removal of the barrel when the carrying handle is at least substantially in the carry position.

Abstract: A stun gun is disclosed having a firing mechanism, and also having a camera for automatically capturing post-firing images after the firing mechanism is activated. The post-firing image is automatically and digitally marked, or partly marked, to indicate when the camera was used. A method of gun operation is also presented, along with a system that includes both the gun and a gun holder. Removal of the gun from the gun holder may activate the camera's visual or audio collection capabilities, and further actions such as removal of a gun safety may heighten activation of the camera. The camera's visual collection capabilities include viewing both the target and also the user of the gun.

Abstract: The mounting assembly for securing an accessory to a firearm. The accessory has a body with an undercarriage portion which is shaped to matingly receive at least a portion of the undercarriage of the firearm, a trigger guard portion shaped to engage at least a portion of the trigger guard firearm and a firearm connector portion which is constructed of a resilient deformable material which forms a snap-fit with a portion of the firearm in order to secure the body to the firearm. The body also has an accessory connector portion shaped to secure an accessory to the body.

Abstract: This invention of the Duel CounterRotating Whirly Gig System is in fact an system to Produce vertical lift in an system that is on the order of an million times more efficient than the method used by helicopters and is almost totally silent. The system functions by the act of formation of downward low pressure on the top surface via high RPM rotation of an flat polished plated with very low air friction or turbulence. Ideally there would be an flat surface on the bottom to provide the upwards lift, placing the flat surface on the bottom at an angle provides both lift and direction.

Abstract: A rod holder connects to a boat and holds a fly rod, a spinning rod or a casting rod. The rod holder generally includes a base member having a connection portion that connects to the boat and a holder member that couples to the base member. The holder member has a first end including a first holder portion and a second end including a second holder portion. The first end is distal from the second end. The first holder portion includes a base and at least one wall connected to the base. A first dimension defines a distance between the first holder portion and the second holder portion. A second dimension defines a distance between the base and an edge of the at least one wall. The edge is distal from the base. A ratio of the first distance to the second distance is in a range from about 2 to 1 to about 24 to 1.

Abstract: The present invention provides a new fishing lure construction wherein the same can be utilized for attracting fish to a hook attached to a lure resembling a swimmer. The buoyant lure has a rotatable arm assembly having a left arm attached to a first end of an elongated rod, and a right arm attached to a second end of the elongated rod, the elongated rod being rotatably positioned in a transverse linear passage passing between the shoulders of the figure of the swimmer. The left arm is angularly offset from the right arm 180 degrees, the hands of the arms being positioned such that when the lure is drawn across the surface of a body of water by an eyelet in the region of the head portion of the figure, the arms rotate imparting a paddling motion to the figure. At least one hook is attached to the bottom portion of the lure. In a preferred embodiment the figure is prone and is affixed to the top surface of a miniature surfboard.

Abstract: A fish cooler device 10 comprising an insulated fish cooler lid 20 that provides a means for ease of deposition of fish, a funnel shaped fish receiver 30 for dropping fish through an aperture 22 and a trap door 40 into a thermally insulated container 24. The fish cooler device 10 may also feature an ice chest or cooler with two lids, an upper lid 26 and the fish cooler lid 20; and a fish remover tray 90 that provides for the fish to be easily removed from the ice/ice water without having to handle a single fish, and a funnel shaped fish receiver 30.

Abstract: The invention relates to bicontinuous microemulsions and to the use thereof as a fuel, combustion or heating fluid. Said fuels permit an increased efficiency of internal combustion systems and heating installations of any type and, simultaneously, a minimized emission of pollutants, associated with combustion, to be obtained.

Abstract: A fuel additive to significantly improve fuel economy of internal combustion engines, a process of making the additive (10) and a process of using the additive (20). The fuel additive is aspirin dissolved in a carrier fluid that is miscible in gasoline or diesel fuel. The process of making involves a step of mixing aspirin with a carrier fluid, which dissolves the aspirin and which is thereafter miscible in gasoline or diesel fuel. A preferred carrier fluid is ethyl alcohol. The process of using involves a step of adding that mixture to the fuel serving the internal combustion engine.

Abstract: Coal particle compositions are provided. The coal particle compositions, in some cases, are characterized by having an extremely small average particle size (e.g., 1.0 micron or less) and a high average surface area (e.g., greater than 3 m2/g). The small particle size and high surface area can lead to significant property advantages including more efficient combustion, more effective fractional distillation, and enhanced pollution separation, amongst others. The coal particle compositions may be produced in a milling process that uses preferred grinding media (e.g., high density grinding media) to reduce feed coal particles to a desired final particle size. The coal particle compositions may be used in a variety of different applications including fuel and non-fuel uses.

Abstract: A densification system for shredding and densifying specification raw materials for use as an alternative fuel source. The densified specification raw materials formed by the inventive system are readily transportable to a fuel processing site where they may be used to generate energy.

Abstract: A liquid delivery apparatus is disclosed which includes a frame supporting a drum. The frame is adapted for displacement relative to a ground surface having plant matter and the drum is rotatably disposed relative to the frame at a rest position having a height above said ground surface which allows for engagement of an outer circumferential surface of the drum with at least some of said plant matter. The apparatus has at least one applicator for application of a liquid onto the circumferential surface such that the liquid is transferable to at least some of the plant matter as the frame is displaced relative to said ground surface. Preferably, the drum is retractably mounted to the frame such that the drum retracts from the rest position upon engagement with a ground obstacle and returns to the rest position subsequent to engagement with the ground obstacle.

Abstract: A modular construction system for forming a greenhouse structure includes a plurality of glazing panels and a plurality of support members for connecting and supporting the glazing panels. In the preferred embodiment the glazing panels and support members are connected utilizing interlock brackets connected to and extending outwardly from the edges of the glazing panels, to form a positive interlock between glazing panels and support members. A bypass sliding ventilation window assembly is provided, and a bypass sliding door assembly, or alternatively a hinged door assembly, is also provided. At least one glazing panel or sliding ventilation window panel preferably includes a self-sealing pass-through aperture for an electric cord or the like.

Abstract: A sleeve used to wrap items such as potted plants. The sleeve may have an open or closed bottom. When closed, the bottom may have a gusset for allowing expansion upon the depositing of the pot into the sleeve or a half-hexagonal portion for enabling concealed folds to be formed in the bottom. The sleeve may have a detachable upper portion. The sleeve may have a bonding material disposed upon an inner or outer portion of the sleeve for attaching the sleeve to the pot or item.

Abstract: A structural cell system is disclosed for supporting hardscape areas in a way that enables tree root growth and accommodates filtering, retention, storage and infiltration of storm water while preventing hardscape damage. The system includes a plurality of structural cells capable of being positioned below a hardscape. The structural cells are designed to have openings that are sized to accept tree roots. The system has one or more permeable barriers around the structural cells with a way for water to flow into the plurality of structural cells flow out of the structural cells.

Abstract: The invention refers to a device composed of an absorbent gel-free pad that retains fluids and prevents leaks; the pad is covered with a water-proof layer that keeps a permeable or semi-permeable material inside. This pad can be either completely or partially sealed on both edges to provide a small pouch that will cover and protect the lower part of the stalks. The pouch is then held with rubber bands both in the upper and lower part. The permeable material is soaked with fluids. In contact with the stalks, it provides the moisture needed by the flowers during packing and storage, remaining fresh until they reach their final destination.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel methods of harvesting pods of legume plants, and to novel methods of producing seeds of such crops. The present invention also relates to methods of improving the quality of seeds, and to methods of drying seeds. The present invention further relates to seeds produced by such methods, and to bags of such seeds.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for bio-fumigation using Brassica seeds. More particularly, the present invention is directed to a method for controlling monocot and dicot weed populations and maintaining plant growth and production through bio-fumigation using Brassica seeds. Brassica seeds may be mixed with zeolite to enhance the effect of bio-fumigation in some instances. The method for bio-fumigation of the present invention includes seeding using yellow mustard, (Brassica juncea (L.), Czernj. & Coss.), and/or rape, (Brassica napus L. var. napus).

Abstract: A collapsible floral container stored and shipped in a substantially planar configuration and expanded into the form of a flower pot or flower pot cover is disclosed. The collapsible container includes a plurality of segments and a connecting member for connecting the segments such that the segments define a sidewall and such that the segments are movable between an expanded position wherein the segments cooperate with one another to form an object receiving space and to provide the sidewall with a unitary appearance and a collapsed position wherein the sidewall is substantially flattened.

Abstract: A cover sleeve for a container comprised of: a top portion being generally circular and having an inner edge and an outer edge, the inner edge forming a top aperture; a side portion shaped similarly to a sidewall of the container and engaging the outer edge of the top portion, and having a first and second vertical edge; a fastening mechanism temporarily securing the first vertical edge to the second vertical edge, allowing the cover sleeve to be removably secured over the container; and at least one securing member on the cover sleeve to temporarily secure it to the container. The cover sleeve can further include a bottom portion, a mounting mechanism, and/or at least one decorative indicia.

Abstract: A horticultural irrigation system comprising a plant growth container. The plant growth container comprises a receptacle for a plant growth medium, a reservoir, a container inlet, a float valve and an outlet means. The container inlet supplies water to the reservoir. The float valve is adapted to close the container inlet when the water in the reservoir reaches a pre-determined level. An outlet means allows the passage of water from the reservoir to the receptacle.

Abstract: A system for packaging flower bulbs with sprouts and roots that both protects the sprouts and makes it easier to extract the bulbs from the packaging.

Abstract: Provided is a fuel reforming apparatus wherein vacuum reforming tubes (13) are accommodated in a flow path (12) between an inner cylinder (9a) of a heat-insulating vessel (9) and a furnace flue (11) arranged in the inner cylinder (9a). Formed between the furnace flue (11) and a guide cylinder (21) accommodated in the furnace flue (11) is a gap though which combustion gas (28) generated in a combustor (10) is raised. A helical plate (22) is arranged in the flow path (12) such that the combustion gas (28) lowered in the flow path (12) flows across the reforming tubes (13). Thus, red heating of the furnace flue can be sufficiently conducted to sufficiently heat the reforming tubes through radiation heat transfer. As a result, heat transfer areas of the reforming tubes may be made smaller to reduce in size the reforming tubes.

Abstract: A shift reactor for fuel cells, a fuel cell system employing the same, and an operating method of the same are provided. More particularly, a shift reactor for fuel cells is filled with a shift catalyst and includes an inlet through which reactants flow into the shift reactor and an outlet through which products flow out of the shift reactor. An oxygen supply duct and a valve capable of regulating the oxygen supply are positioned at the outlet side of the shift reactor. The oxygen supply allows for the temperature of the shift catalyst to be increased rapidly at startup, thereby significantly shortening the startup time of the shift reactor and thereby contributing to an improved practical operation of the fuel cell system.

Abstract: A sealing structure for a vehicle door, which includes a door frame, a partition sash, a sliding door glass and a quarter member which are respectively provided in the door frame and the partition sash. The sliding door glass is sealed with a glass run, whereas the quarter member is sealed with a quarter weather strip. A corner piece is attached in a space defined with the door frame and an upper end of the partition sash. Seal lips are respectively formed on outer surfaces of corner parts of the glass run and the quarter weather strip so as to elastically contact facing surfaces of the corner piece to provide a secure seal between the door frame and the upper end of the partition sash.

Abstract: A porous abrasive article that allows air and dust particles to pass through. The abrasive article has a screen abrasive and a polymer netting with hooks. The screen abrasive has an abrasive layer comprising a plurality of abrasive particles and at least one binder. The polymer netting cooperates with the screen abrasive to allow the flow of particles through the abrasive article.

Abstract: A porous abrasive article that allows air and dust particles to pass through. The abrasive article has a screen abrasive and an apertured attachment interface with hooks. The screen abrasive has an abrasive layer comprising a plurality of abrasive particles and at least one binder. The apertured attachment interface cooperates with the screen abrasive to allow the flow of particles through the abrasive article.

Abstract: A fireproof container with heat activated panel is presented. The invention includes a fireproof container and panel, compression pins, and heat sensitive pin. Fireproof panel is disposed adjacent to vent holes located along the fireproof container and separated there from so as to allow airflow into the container. Compression pins are disposed between and attached to both container and panel so as to apply a mechanical load onto the panel directed towards the container. Heat sensitive pin is disposed between and attached to both container and panel so as to oppose the mechanical load applied by the compression pins when the temperature of the surrounding environment is below a threshold temperature. Heat sensitive pin yields to the mechanical load when the surrounding environment exceeds the threshold temperature, thereby enabling contact between panel and container so as to interrupt airflow into the enclosure.

Abstract: The invention teaches systems and apparatuses for securing a roof covering. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A storage device for storing an article in a clearance space beneath a raised home comprises a base and a shelf that slides along the base. The base is secured to the floor of the clearance space, and has rollers rotatably mounted on its upper surface. The shelf has a top surface for the article to be stored, and a lower surface that engages with the rollers on the base. The shelf can slide out of the clearance space into an extended position for access, and in to the clearance space into a retracted position for storage. Methods are provided to install and use the storage device.

Abstract: A modular shelter designed to partially or totally cover a ground area comprises a plurality of nested modules assembled with telescopic fitting by rotation around one and the same vertical axis, so as to vary between an extended position where the whole of said area is covered and a retracted position wherein all of the modules are housed in the module having the largest dimensions. Each module has a roof and a substantially vertical side wall. Each module comprises a rigid structure supporting filling panels and composed: of a parallel and horizontal bottom arch and top arch, of a plurality of uprights that extend between said bottom and top arches, of radial cross-members converging towards said vertical axis from the top arch.

Abstract: The Haven House offers a much stronger structure than conventional structures by utilizing the inherent strength of a complete sphere as opposed to a truncated sphere and by utilizing its system of pre-cast concrete structural members that are laced together in several different directions with post-tensioned cables. The inherent flexibility of the multitude of hinged connections that make up the Haven House allows the structure to distort but not fail when subjected to various forces of nature such as earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and floods. Its response to these destructive forces can be likened to a three-dimensional and more widely diversified version of a palm tree bending but not breaking when subjected to high winds.

Abstract: A telescoping mast apparatus has a plurality of nesting cylinders. The telescoping mast apparatus has a plurality of telescoping cylinders and a plurality of straps. The plurality of cylinders is extendable from a base. Each strap extends from near a bottom of an outer cylinder, around an upper roller near a top of the outer cylinder, and is attached near a bottom of an inner cylinder. The plurality of straps and the plurality of telescoping cylinders intercouples in series with alternating straps and cylinders. The plurality of cylinders is extended by retracting a first strap from the outer cylinder, which raises an intermediate cylinder, which retracts the intermediate strap from the intermediate cylinder, which raises the second intermediate cylinder.

Abstract: The invention provides a system, method, and components for assembling and disassembling boardwalks, decks, and platforms. The invention has a number of extruded and interlocking components. It is installed by driving piles, preferably helical piles, into a ground surface. The invention provides a comprehensive set of assembly members, including and not limited to brackets that attach to the piles, headers, joists, cross braces, decking, and decking fasteners for holding the decking in place. In particular, a multiple-way adjustable bracket connects the piles to the rest of the structure.

Abstract: A tread member for a staircase is preassembled from strips of wood material which are laminated to one another by adhesive to form a panel with an integral nosing member attached thereto. The preassembled tread member need only be cut to width and length for installation on an existing tread of a staircase for covering a staircase with hardwood floor material more quickly and with a better finished result as compared to traditional methods in which individual tongue and groove strips of wood material are attached to the staircase. A riser member comprises a panel formed of strips of wood material laminated together is also provided for covering the existing risers spanning between the adjacent treads of the staircase.

Abstract: A panel and frame system with latches for easy installation to protect windows and doors, including sliding glass doors, in hurricanes and as a security measure for preventing unwanted intrusion of wind and personnel in the building.

Abstract: A garage door bracing system for rapid bracing of a garage door includes brackets that attach to the header and floor with the brackets attached to each end of a structural member.

Abstract: A doorframe structure is composed of a doorframe, spring locks, and decorative panels fastened to the doorframe. The doorframe is provided with pluralities of fish-eye holes and grooves. By way of piercing screws through the fish-eye hoes, the doorframe is fastened to the pre-constructed holes on the wall. Each of the spring locks includes a base and an insertion locking device, which are installed inside the groove and on the backside of the decorative panel, respectively. By way of the spring locks, the decorative panels can be fastened to the doorframe to accomplish a novel doorframe structure. Accordingly, the doorframe structure can be installed after the wall has been completed constructed, thus avoiding the inconvenience occurred in construction of the doorframe of the prior art, i.e., the doorframe must be installed before completing the construction of the wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for the frameless fixation of an insulating glass unit having two panes connected to each other by a rim connection having a groove in which a fixation element engages. The rim connection of the insulating glass unit consists of a preferably metallic spacer profile which is located between two panes that are essentially parallel to each other. On the outer face of the spacer profile a sealing matter, usually made of silicon, is placed, which assures a constant connection of the two panes, on the one hand, and an air-tight or gas-tight closing of the insulating glass unit, on the other hand. A groove is formed in this sealing matter belonging to the rim connection, on the outer face of the insulating glass unit. When the insulating glass unit has been mounted, the groove is advantageously not visible for an observer, since it is covered by the sealing matter as well as by the spacer profile.