Abstract: Engaging elements may be included in foot-receiving devices, such as footwear, bindings, clips, or the like. Such elements may include a bimodal spring member movable between two independent stable positions and an arm that moves in response to the bimodal spring member changing between its stable positions. The engaging elements additionally may include a retaining element extending from the arm and/or an arm/bimodal spring interface that induces changes in position of the arm in response to the bimodal spring member changing its stable position. The bimodal spring member, the arm, the retaining element, and/or the arm/bimodal spring interface may form an integral unit. Additionally, methods of engaging a foot-receiving device with a user's foot are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shoe having a sole with a periphery and a recess. The recess extends laterally across the sole from periphery to periphery and the recess also slopes downwardly toward a rear of the shoe. An insole having a flexible material and placed on top of the recess is provided and wherein the flexible material flexes in cooperation with the recess for enhancing flexibility of the shoe.

Abstract: A snap block structure for a pair of mountaineering bicycle shoes each having a bottom formed with two protruding spiked blocks and two threaded locking holes located between the two spiked blocks. The snap block structure includes a snapping member mounted on the bottom of each of the mountaineering bicycle shoes and having a top face integrally formed with a protruding block mounted between the two spiked blocks of each of the mountaineering bicycle shoes. Thus, the mountaineering bicycle shoes are available for a mountaineering bicycle pedal and also available for the road-use bicycle pedal by provision of the snap block structure, thereby enhancing the versatility of the mountaineering bicycle shoes.

Abstract: A cutting device for cutting trenches in the ground having at least one cutting wheel drivable in rotary manner and at least one first cutting element, located on the cutting wheel, for removing soil material during a rotation of the cutting wheel in one rotation direction. On said cutting wheel is provided at least one second cutting element for removing soil material in an oppositely directed, second rotation direction, at least one of the cutting elements is displaceably mounted between a first position for removing soil material and a retracted, second position and a control device is provided for the displacement of the cutting element between the first and second positions.

Abstract: A coupling arrangement for securing two separable components in an excavating operation includes a wear component, a base component and a lock. The lock has a body having a configuration adapted to be received in a hole in the base component, and a rotatable locking member. The locking member includes a flange that is movable between a locking position wherein the flange holds the lock in the assembly and a release position wherein the flange permits the lock to be removed from the assembly. In the release position, the flange sets within the axial extension of the outline of the body. In the locking position, at least part of the flange sets outside the axial extension of the outline of the body. In one construction, the rotation of the locking member to the locking position tightens the fit of the wear component on the base component.

Abstract: A drying and pressing apparatus for items of clothing has a flexible pressing dummy which can be subjected to the action, from the inside, of an air stream generated by a fan. The apparatus has a top framework and a bottom framework. The pressing dummy has one section connected to the top framework and one section connected to the bottom framework, and it is possible for the top framework to be retracted into a retracted position in the bottom framework and extended out of the bottom framework into an extended position. A locking device is provided for locking the top framework in relation to the bottom framework. By use of an unlocking input device for unlocking the locking device, it is possible, upon actuation of the input device, to unlock the locking device for a predetermined unlocking duration. This ensures a straightforward and nevertheless reliable operating sequence of the apparatus.

Abstract: A steam iron includes a base provided with a vaporization chamber for generating steam, the vaporization chamber being heated by a heater; a water tank for storing therein water to be supplied to the vaporization chamber; and a soleplate having a plurality of steam holes and a multiplicity of depressions, the soleplate being provided on a bottom surface of the base and the steam holes being communicated with the vaporization chamber. At least a part of the steam holes is consecutively arranged in a line and, further, at least a part of the depressions is arranged in multiple lines along the steam holes consecutively arranged in the line.

Abstract: A quantum cryptography communication system includes a first data communication unit; a second data communication unit connected with the first data communication unit by a first optical fiber; and a third data communication unit connected with the second data communication unit by a second optical fiber. A first shared key is generated in the first data communication unit and the second data communication unit, and a second shared key is generated in the second data communication unit and the third data communication unit. The second data communication unit encrypts the first shared key by using the second shared key and then transmits the encrypted first shared key to the third data communication unit on the second optical fiber, and the third data communication unit decrypts the encrypted first shared key by using the second shared key to reproduce the first shared key.

Abstract: The method entails disposing advertising on a cover of an apparatus for hands-free holding of an article to a hat that has a substantially stiff lower clamp with a shape contoured to match a hat and two planar surfaces to provide grip support integral with the first planar surface, a substantially stiff upper clamp with engaging two arms integrally secured to the first planar surface, wherein the inner arm slides inside the crown alongside the head of the user, the other side inside of the crown, and wherein the outer arm that is substantially parallel to the inner arm and spaced enough from the inner arm to attach removably to the crown; a spring fixedly secured to the base of the outer arm and extending away from the base substantially parallel to and to secure removably an article; and a soft outer clamp secured to the spring for additionally holding the article.

Abstract: A device for illuminating an existing sign (100) having a specific given pattern on its front side, and a method of manufacturing such a device. A removable laminate (102) is intended to be applied to the front side of the sign, and comprises a mainly transparent cast compound or matrix (200) and a number of light emitting diodes (104) embedded in the matrix together with associated connected diode wires. The light emitting diodes are positioned in a specific pattern adapted to the existing pattern of the sign. Furthermore, a control unit (110) is configured to provide the light emitting diodes with electric current from a source of power supply (112) connected to the control unit, and to control the current feeding to the light emitting diodes in accordance with a predetermined scheme.

Abstract: A display provides a frame having legs meeting at an upper end at a span. The lower ends of the legs terminate at feet which form a base and toes. The base and toes define a slot therebetween which cooperates with a leading edge of an access of one of a trunk of a vehicle, a tailgate of a trunk and a hatchback of a vehicle. The leading edge is received in the slot. A sign is supported by the frame and first and second shaft connectors receive a shaft having an ornament connected thereto, such as a flag or shaker.

Abstract: A fabric sign having a pair of parallel support elements (1, 2) and a fabric (3) with two parallel edge portions (4, 5) for assembly on one each of the support elements, at least one of the support elements comprising a frame profile (7) with a counter support (12) having an inner wall section (17) forming a continuation of said attachment part (14), an outer, flange-like wall section (19) with a free supporting end (20) to form a pivot (A), and an end wall section (18) connecting the inner and outer wall sections with each other, said wall sections defining between them a clamping pocket (25), and a clamping profile (8) for clamping the fabric to the frame profile, which clamping profile has a pressure part (28) for manual actuation, retaining devices (48, 49) for retaining the edge portion of the fabric, and an engagement part (27) arranged to cooperate with the inner and outer wall sections of the counter support when the pressure part is pressed against the attachment part while the clamping profile is tu

Abstract: A decorative piece for securing together the mitered edges of two frame sections, comprises a locking plate having two threaded apertures for receiving tightening screws, and a backing plate, whereby tightening of the screws forces the locking plate and backing plate apart to clamp the frame sections together. A cosmetic extension attached to one of the plates is adapted to fit between the mitered edges of the adjacent frame sections. The cosmetic extension includes a top portion and a transverse extension arm which provide an attractive junction for the adjacent frame sections which obscures the mitered joint.

Abstract: A fishing device for use by a person from a fishing location, such as the shore of a lake or river, or the side of a boat or dock is disclosed. The fishing device includes a gliding device having a body having aerodynamic surfaces for lifting the body when tossed by the person, and a tethering connector for tethering the device to the fishing location.

Abstract: The device for releasing fishing line used with downrigger includes a body with a front face angled to a bottom face. A downrigger aperture is orientated parallel to front face. A chamber is configured for slidable movement of an adjustable magnetic engaging member. A magnetic body is within the chamber for magnetically engaging with the adjustable magnetic engaging member. A fishing line retaining mechanism is on the body, for releasably holding a fishing line release member, which is releasably held to the fishing line retaining mechanism at one end, and pivotally connected to the magnetic engaging member at the other end, so that the fishing line retaining mechanism releases a fishing line when a force, such as a fish strike, is sufficient to overcome the magnetic attraction between the magnetic body and the magnetic engaging member.

Abstract: Methods of increasing the amount of one or more functional compounds in medicinal mushroom biomass and mushroom mycelia by growing the mushrooms on a substrate that is high in the functional compound or compounds of interest is provided. More specifically, a method of increasing the amount of anthocyanins in mushrooms is provided. Mushrooms are grown on a substrate rich in anthocyanins, such as purple corn or other suitable red, purple or black-pigmented substrate, and incorporate the anthocyanins during growth. Mushrooms grown by this method, as well as methods of improving the growth rate and potency of mushrooms, are also provided.

Abstract: A system and method for injecting liquids into trees is provided with an injection device having a liquid container and a removable needle. The system is engaged with a tree so that the needle is disposed into the sapwood of the tree. The liquid is injected into the tree out ejector holes in the needle that are sized to permit the passage of the liquid but to self-seal when engaged by tree fiber. Once the liquid is injected, the injection device may be disengaged from the tree and the needle. The needle may be permanently left in place or removed after a short time.

Abstract: The present invention makes reference to a method of cultivation to improve the fruit crop and is characterised in that it consists of applying pressure, mainly to the base of the floral cluster, making it in the period between the opening of the first flowers and the end of the fattening of the last fruit in order, to thus obtain bigger fruit. The stated pressure must, by preference, be made a short time after the appearance of the first flowers. The present invention is applicable to the Solanaceae group of plants.

Abstract: A flower container which is formed of a flexible plastic material having a sidewall extending upwardly from a base member, with a plurality of cutouts formed in the upper portion of the sidewall and a restricting member being secured about the upper portion of the sidewall to thereby form a shoulder section which extends inwardly to a neck and an upper section which extends upwardly and outwardly from the restricted neck portion. The container may be utilized with normally scrapped flowers and distributed to various types of retail outlets.

Abstract: A radiation transmitting or sensing element is placed in a generally elongated holder of resilient material so that, if it is distorted by an accidental impact or otherwise, it will automatically re-orient itself when the intruding force is released. The invention is especially useful in safety accessories for automatic overhead doors, garages, and the like.

Abstract: A pit cover includes a casing, a cross bar and cover plate. The casing has a peripheral wall in the general shape of a rectangle, with open opposite ends and. The cross bar is coupled to and extends across the wall on an inside of the casing. The cover plate is configured to cover the first end of the casing. The cover plate has a first surface which, when the cover plate covers the first end of the casing is located on an outside of the casing. An enclosure is supported on a second opposite side of the cover plate and is provided with a slot through which a part 34 of the cross bar 14 can extend into the enclosure 28. A door 36 is coupled to the cover plate to provide access to the enclosure.

Abstract: An automated shutter control for a shutter having a plurality of slats which are pivoted in unison, the automated shutter control comprises a motor, a slat interface having a body portion and a connector portion, the connector portion having a contour configured to register with and connect to at least a portion of an end of one of the slats of the shutter, and a moving assembly moved by the motor and connectable to the slat interface so as to move the slat interface between a first and a second position.

Abstract: A door can be opened from either direction, from the left or the right. A double direction opening mechanism for a door has a first and second hinge pairs (5, 6), a first and a second hinge pin drive mechanism (7, 8), and a first and a second handle (91, 92). When either the first or the second handle (91, 92) is selectively operated, either the first or the second hinge pin pair (53, 63) is drawn out from either the first or the second hinge pair (5, 6). Then, a door (3) is rotated for opening/closing about either or the hinge pin pairs (53, 63) joined to the other of the first or the second hinge pair (5, 6).

Abstract: A gasket for a refrigerator includes a pivotable flexible gasket main body extending in a longitudinal direction, the gasket main body having a front contact side portion and a rear side portion opposite to the front contact side portion, the front contact side portion of the gasket being contactable with a front contact side portion of another gasket to form a contact interface; an elastic portion formed in the gasket main body, the elastic portion having an elastic connection portion, the elastic connection portion extending from the front contact side portion to the rear side portion; and a magnet provided within the gasket main body and located on the front contact side portion of the gasket main body.

Abstract: The present invention generally encompasses a ridge cap roofing product that is formed from a composite material. The ridge cap has a cross section that is generally in the shape of an inverted V with a rounded apex and includes a front section and a back section. The front section has a straight lower edge. The back section has a lowered edge that tapers both upward and inward. The tapered shape of the ridge cap's back section insures that installed ridge caps lie flat and that a covered ridge or hip does not have a saw tooth appearance. The ridge cap of the present invention is somewhat flexible so that it can be used with roofs that have a range of pitches. In one embodiment, the top surface of the ridge cap's front section is textured or contoured so that it simulates certain conventional shingles.

Abstract: A barrier, such as a PV module, is secured to a base by a support to create a shingle assembly with a venting region defined between the barrier and base for temperature regulation. The first edge of one base may be interengageable with the second edge of an adjacent base to be capable of resisting first and second disengaging forces oriented perpendicular to the edges and along planes oriented parallel to and perpendicular to the base. A deflector may be used to help reduce wind uplift forces.

Abstract: At a beams-to-column connection of two beams to a column, in which the joint connection comprises both a gravity load-carrying capability and a moment-resisting capability between each beam and column, there is added a beam-to-beam connection across the column, using two gusset plates, facing each other on opposite sides of the joint connection. The gusset plates which are not welded directly to the column in a moment-resisting connection, connect the two beams in a tension, shear and moment-resisting connection with respect to each other. Such beam-to-beam connection by the gusset plates provides the capability of withstanding severe torsional and lateral inelastic deformation due to direct blast pressure. When subjected to violent conditions and upon loss of column support or the loss of integrity of the beams-to-column joint connection, the two beams and gusset plates provide independent beam-to-beam structural continuity, causing the two beams to act as one long beam.

Abstract: Modular structures constructed from interlocking wall modules made of plate steel and assembled with C-channel connectors, including tongue and groove elements used to position adjoining modules adjacent to one another, for example during the construction of a cell block. The tongue and groove elements ensure all adjacent prison cell modules are properly aligned such that the front fascia of each cell module lies within substantially the same plane. Further, the interlocking of the tongue and groove allows for the quick, cost-effective construction of a schoolroom having double skinned walls in an effort to increase the stability of the structure. Lastly, the interlocking panels may be formed in relatively small sections and then joined together in order to form a larger wall.

Abstract: A building construction system and method which includes an attachment or fastener device and a tool element for applying the device to a lower reinforcing rod. The reinforcing rod is part of a building section which includes a wood or lumber section and a lower concrete layer. The attachment device is utilized to securely retain a lumber section to a lower concrete area. The overall design is such that construction and labor time is significantly reduced.

Abstract: A tile for lining an internal surface in a heavy wear area. The tile includes at least one locating rod embedded within said tile and an internal mechanism for laterally extending said at least one locating rod out of said tile and into a gap in an adjoining structure which may be another tile. The tiles forming the lining surface are securely held in place as a result of the selective deployment of the locating rods into a gap in the adjoining structure.

Abstract: A latch-type tile mounting system for mounting a tile to the frame of a wall panel. An outwardly extending hook is engaged with the wall panel frame, and includes an outer hook portion. The tile includes a receiver within which the outer hook portion of the hook member is received, and blocking structure that prevents engagement with the outer hook portion. A latch member is movably mounted to the tile over the receiver, and is movable between an open or unlocked position for enabling the outer hook portion to be moved into and out of engagement with the receiver, and a closed or locked position in which the latch member engages the outer hook portion to secure the tile to the frame. The latch member is pivotably movable between its locked and unlocked positions, preferably via a fastener that secures the latch member to the tile.

Abstract: A roof shake which simulates a conventional wooden shake includes an exposure portion, a toplap portion, a headlap portion, a butt end, an upper edge, an upper surface, and a lower surface. The shake tapers from the butt end to the upper edge. The exposure portion of the shake includes at least one cavity which functions as an insulative chamber and may be filled with insulative material.

Abstract: A multi-layer vacuum assembly-enabled fundamental building material to strengthen the safety of a building structure includes a main body which has a plurality of vacuumized layers formed from the exterior towards the interior that are divided by a plurality of spacers. The shape of the main body may be designed according to requirements of the building structure. The main body further has a first latch section and a second latch section located on the outer side thereof. The vacuumized layers can cushion damage resulting from impact of external forces. It also can block thermal conduction, thereby achieve shock resistant, fire resistant, heat and cold isolation effects.

Abstract: This invention provides a configuration of a joint that allows a satisfactory welded joint to be formed with reduced deformation of the joint region when two-face structures (panels) are friction-welded end to end. The panels 31, 32 each have two substantially parallel plates 33, 34 and a third member 35 connecting the two plates 33, 34. The end portions of the plates 33, 34 of one panel 32 are friction-welded to the end portions of the plates 33, 34 of the other panel 32. At least one of the panels has a plate 36 at its end for connecting the plates 33 and 34 and has a rigidity to support a pressing force produced during the friction welding.

Abstract: A framing system for adjustably connecting building components comprising an outer stud, an interior support member, and a connecting clip.

Abstract: A bracket is provided comprising a rectangular and substantially planar base panel, a pair of generally opposed and substantially parallel panels extending generally normal to the base panel and spaced apart, with a third panel extending generally normal to the base panel along a third edge, with a fourth panel extending generally normal to the base panel along a fourth edge thereof, with that fourth panel extending in a direction generally opposite the direction of the first, second and third panels, whereby the first, second and third panels form a channel along the base panel and having one closed end. A method of use of this bracket is also disclosed.

Abstract: A single ply flexible membrane roofing system secured to a roof deck has a first membrane secured to the roof deck by fasteners. The membrane system includes a second membrane with an edge portion overlapping the first membrane edge which can be “factory” weld-bonded to the first membrane along the edge of the second membrane to provide waterproofing such that the first membrane edge projects forwardly from the bond to define a fastening projection extending forwardly from the weld bond for the laterally spaced fasteners. An adhesive coating over the fastening projection and fasteners extends essentially from the weld bond forwardly to provide a continuous adhesive coating over the first membrane projection and the fasteners to provide a substantially monolithic water-sealed seaming bond of enhanced strength with enhanced resistance to uplift forces. The invention is concerned also with the labor reduced method of constructing the system.

Abstract: A composite corrugated panel is provided comprising a first corrugated panel defining a first corrugation height joined to a second corrugated panel defining a second corrugation height, the joined panels defining a cross sectional thickness that is preferably less than a sum of the first and second corrugation heights. A method is provided for producing a composite corrugated panel, comprising: providing a first panel comprising a first corrugation and a first opening; providing a second panel comprising a second corrugation and a second opening; stacking the panels by disposing the first corrugation in the second opening and the second corrugation in the first opening.

Abstract: A method of forming a composite door is disclosed. The method comprises: mixing together a thermoplastic polymer with an organic fibrous material in a ratio such that the organic fibrous material constitutes 40 to 60 percent by weight of the mixture; extruding the mixture under heat and pressure to create a thin sheet form; cutting the sheet to a predetermined size; removing material from at least one surface of the sheet to create a homogeneous appearance devoid of obvious fibrous particles; thermoforming the sheet to impart to the at least one surface an exterior three dimensional door surface to create a thin door facing; and assembling two of the thermoformed thin door facings, a peripheral frame and a core material into a door.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process used for packaging a product in a web of material that has a zipper attached thereto. The process includes providing a web of material having first and second edges and a zipper including first and second interlocking members. The first and second interlocking members of the zipper are interlocked together. The first interlocking member of the zipper is attached to the web at an intermediate portion of the web between the first and second edges of the web. The second interlocking member has an attachment region that is facing away from the web. One edge of the web is folded away from the zipper and toward the other edge of the web. Unit operations are performed on the zipper to create zipper segments from the zipper while the zipper is exposed. Each of the zipper segments is associated with an individual food package made from the web.

Abstract: A bagger system for enclosing poultry very tightly in a plastic bag, to reduce material costs, present a pleasing appearance, decrease leaks, and minimize distortion of the printed information on the bag. A grabber assembly is described, to grasp the legs of the poultry and guide the poultry into a bag in proper hocking position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for storing and transporting products, wherein, from plastic, foldable containers are manufactured, in particular injection molded; the foldable containers, at a filling location, are brought in a set-up condition and are filled with products; the filled containers are transported to a position of use; the foldable containers are emptied and are collapsed; the containers, in collapsed condition, are returned to the filling location; and the containers are cleaned and reused. The invention further relates to a foldable container which is injection molded from plastic in one piece with integrated hinges, and to specific methods for use of such plastic container.

Abstract: A method of packaging a diaper includes: disposing a compressible absorbent diaper within a flexible substantially air impermeable encasement; creating a vacuum state within an interior space defined by the encasement; sealing the encasement such that the interior space of the substantially air impermeable encasement is completely sealed, and such that the compressible absorbent diaper is completely enclosed within the sealed interior space; and pressing at least a portion of the compressible absorbent diaper with a smooth surface. Pressing may occur before vacuum-packing, after vacuum-packing, during vacuum-packing, or both before and after vacuum-packing.

Abstract: A method for making a vertical stand up package having one or more open or closed compartments within the package, and method and apparatus for manufacturing the same, constructed by modification to existing vertical form, fill and seal packaging machines. The invention involves producing a flat bottom bag that can stand upright having an internal compartment from a single sheet of flexible packaging film. A different product can be placed into the compartment. The compartment can also be used as a dipping well. In one aspect a multi-compartment package can be made.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a waste disposal apparatus including a container having a first end and a second end. A tubing cassette for supplying tubing is mounted proximate the first end of the container. A first sealing member and a second sealing member are moveable between an open position, wherein tubing from the tubing cassette can pass between the first and second sealing members, and a closed position, wherein the first and second sealing members can be activated to create a seal in the tubing. The first and second sealing members are guided by guide pins that travel along stepped channels for moving the first and second sealing members between the open and closed positions, and for pulling the tubing and waste packages through the waste disposal apparatus.

Abstract: A density controller is provided for a bagging machine designed for filling or packing material such as silage, compost or the like into an elongate flexible bag or container. The adjustable density controller comprises a drag member or strap with a selectively adjustable length that is positioned beneath the bag being filled and the ground. The weight of the material in the bag on the flexible member resists the forward movement of the bagging machine away from the closed end of the bag. The density of the material being packed or bagged is varied by the surface area of the flexible member that is positioned beneath the bag being filled.

Abstract: An ultrasonic sealing apparatus is provided for transversely ultrasonically sealing a packing material comprised of a laminated body including at least a thermoplastic resin layer having a tubular form and containing a fluid. The apparatus includes a horn having an elongated and flat sealing face and an opposing jaw with an action face including a pressing portion for pressing the packing material in cooperation with the sealing face of the horn to a define at least one transverse sealing zone of the tubular packing material. At least one groove is disposed on the action face of the opposing jaw for forming a molten thermoplastic resin bulge in a vicinal area of the at least one sealing zone on a side in contact with the fluid in the tubular packing material.

Abstract: Wrapping apparatus comprises a dispenser, for dispensing stretched wrap film, which includes a first frame assembly, and a second frame assembly pivotally mounted upon the first frame assembly between a first closed position and second open position. A film roll spindle is mounted upon the second frame assembly along with a plurality of guide rollers, while upstream and downstream prestretch rollers are mounted upon the first frame assembly. When the second frame assembly is disposed at the second open position, the film roll spindle and guide rollers project outwardly in a tilted orientation such that the exchange of film rolls, and the threading of the film between the guide rollers and the prestretch rollers, is facilitated.

Abstract: A saddle tree including a progressive flex headplate, and a saddle constructed therewith, which are capable for properly fining a variety of different size horses. The headplate assembly is constructed of a plurality of flexible, and resilient overlapping layers which increase in length from top to bottom and which are secured together at the center point of the layers. The configuration supplies the headplate assembly with non-linear resistance, permitting progressive flexure of the legs of the headplate assembly while providing resistance in response to flexure of each leg, providing the headplate assembly with points that flex to properly fit horses of varying widths.

Abstract: A saddle pad apparatus constructed from a first non-slip top layer which is stitched or welded to a second non-slip bottom layer with a stiffening layer contained between the top and bottom layers. Each layer is constructed from a poly vinyl chloride impregnated scrim. Each scrim is constructed with ventilation openings to allow for proper ventilation between the load being carried and the animal. The scrims are manufactured by applying a poly vinyl chloride material onto a fiber network with fibers areas and open areas to create a scrim with appropriate stiffness, softness, and ventilation while maintaining other appropriate characteristics.