Abstract: An electrical connector comprises an insulating housing comprising a mating face and two side faces and defining a receiving chamber extending through the mating face along a mating direction thereof; a first contact disposed in the housing; a second contact received in the housing and comprising an engaging portion protruding into the receiving chamber; and a shield covering the housing and formed with at least a pair of soldering arms located outside the one of the side faces of the housing and spaced from each other along the mating direction, the soldering portion of the first contact located between the two soldering arms of the shield outside the one of the side faces of the housing.

Abstract: A mounting device for mounting a connector (30) to a panel (10) includes a shield (20). The panel defines a plurality of slits (15) and a hole (13) therein. Each slit defines a wide portion (151) and a narrow portion (153) communicating with the wide portion. The shield is adapted to receive the connector therein. The shield forms a plurality of hooks (25) and a rivet (26). The hooks extend through the wide portions of the slits, then slide to the narrow portions to engage with the panel. And the rivet extends through the hole to be riveted to the panel to firmly secure the shield with the connector to the panel.

Abstract: An electrical connector (100) includes a shielding member (3), a terminal block (1) positioned adjacent to the bottom of the shielding member (3), a number of terminals (2) received in the terminal block (1). Each terminal (2) includes a end portion (21) securely retained in the terminal block (1), a first branch (211) and a second branch (212) coplanar with the end portion (21) and extending from the end portion (21) towards the same direction parallel to the bottom surface, a tail portion (2110) is located on the first branch (211), and a mating portion (2120) is defined on the second branch (212).

Abstract: An electrical connector (100) including an insulative housing (1) formed with at least a tongue (11); signal terminal pairs (31) loaded in the housing, each of the signal terminal pairs comprising a pair of adjacent signal terminals (310), each of the signal terminals having a contact portion (310a) attached on two opposing mating surfaces of each said at least a tongue; a first grounding means (321) having front portions (321a) attached on said mating surfaces between adjacent signal terminal pairs; and a second grounding means (322) having front portions (322a) embedded in said at least a tongue to insulate signal terminal pairs respectively arranged on the two opposing mating surfaces of said at least a tongue.

Abstract: A fuse 1 of the present invention includes a fuse body 32, a housing 33 which is made of an insulative resin, and receives and holds the fuse body therein, the fuse body being inserted into the housing through an upper opening in the housing, and a cover 34 which is made of an insulative resin, and covers the upper opening in the housing. Retaining portions 50, corresponding respectively to retaining claws 47 of a withdrawing jig for withdrawing the housing, are formed at a side surface of the housing. Therefore, the retaining claws of the withdrawing jig can be positively fixed to the housing, and a relatively large force is not required for the withdrawing operation, and therefore the withdrawing operation can be effected efficiently.

Abstract: A 2-in-1 card-insertion type memory card adapter meeting the size of an SD card and being provided thereon with a plurality of electric conducting sheets meeting the transmission specification of the SD car, the adapter has a fitting groove; wherein the fitting groove can afford direct insertion of a Mini SD card therein for positioning, alternatively, it can afford positioning therein of a positioning rack meeting the size of the Mini SD card, the positioning rack can afford positioning therein of a Micro SD card, so that the Micro SD card can indirectly positioned in the fitting groove; the fitting groove has therein a first pin set and a second pin set in connection with windows for a plurality of electric conducting sheets, the first pin set is for connecting a Mini SD card, and the second pin set is for connecting a Micro SD card.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a device for electrically connecting an external device into a circuit running from an apparatus control switch, to an apparatus, thus allowing the interception and redirection of the control signal to the external device. It concerns a simple, completely enclosed, error-proof connector which allows for simultaneous operation of the apparatus and the external device.

Abstract: A communication jack having crosstalk compensation features for overall crosstalk interference reduction is disclosed. In one embodiment, the jack is configured to receive a plug to form a communication connection, and comprises jack contacts disposed in the jack, with each contact having at least a first surface and a second surface. Upon the plug being received by the jack, the plug contacts interface with the first surface of the jack contacts. The jack further includes a first capacitive coupling connected between two pairs of jack contacts to compensate for near end crosstalk, with the first capacitive coupling being connected to the pairs of jack contacts along the second surface adjacent to where the plug contacts interface with the jack contacts. A far end crosstalk compensation scheme is also set forth.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes a first housing part having first walls, and a second housing part is engageable with the first housing part and has second walls. The first and second walls of the two housing parts combine to define different sides of a plurality of terminal-receiving cavities for mounting a plurality of conductive terminals. The first walls define at least one side of each cavity, and the second walls define at least an opposite side of the cavity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an attachment device (100) for the sun visor of a motor vehicle having a receiving housing (106) mounted on the motor vehicle and a sun visor foot (108) connectable with the sun visor, wherein the receiving housing (106) and the sun visor foot (108) each comprise contacts for producing an electrical connection. The electrical contact of the receiving housing (106) has a first contact point (158) and the electrical contact of the sun visor foot (108) has a second contact point (144) whereby the first contact point (158) and the second contact point (144) are in electrical contact with when the sun visor foot (108) is mounted in the receiving housing (106).

Abstract: An electric connector for electrically and mechanically connecting two articles, each having a conductive part, is able to reduce the number of electric connectors used in a connecting structure, to reduce the connecting work so as to reduce the costs of the connecting structure, and to make the connecting structure more compact. This electric connector includes a housing, which is fitted to at least one of the articles, and a contact, which is provided on the housing and has a connecting part to be connected to a conductive part of the first article and a contacting part to be made to press against and contact a conductive part of the second article. Elastic deflectable wings or locking pawls protrude from the housing to secure the connector to at least one of the articles.

Abstract: An electrical connector includes a housing and a terminal position assurance (TPA) member, which is inserted into the housing. The housing has a front receiving portion and a rear receiving portion, which receives a terminal of a wiring harness. The housing also has a base portion and a recess, which is formed by the base portion, disposed at a top, front portion thereof. Further, an incision is disposed adjacent to the base portion of the housing, thereby allowing an end portion of the base portion to be slightly moved. The TPA member has a protrusion disposed on a top thereof and configured to be fitted into the front receiving portion. The TPA member assures a position of the terminal of the wiring harness. The protrusion of the TPA member engages with the recess, and thereby the TPA is locked in the housing.

Abstract: An electrical connector has male terminals that are retained in terminal cavities of a connector body by rigid lock nibs and flexible cantilever beams that push the terminals against the rigid lock nibs. The male terminal have blades that project into a socket at a mating end of the connector body. A stabilizer that is disposed into the socket shifts between a preload position allowing terminal insertion into locked engagement in the connector body, and a stabilize position stabilizing the blades in the socket and enhancing the terminal retention in the terminal cavities.

Abstract: An electrical connector arrangement includes slidably connected upper and lower connector body sections, at least one pair of first contacts carried by the upper body section, at least one pair of second contacts of the pin type carried by the lower body section beneath the first contacts, respectively, and a third contact arranged on the upper section body section for connecting the pairs of first and second contacts, the third contact having two upwardly extending arm portions in engagement with the two first contacts, respectively, and three downwardly extending spaced leg portions that define a pair of gaps that receive the two pin second contacts, respectively. A plurality of the first, second and third contacts are arranged in parallel rows on the upper and lower connector sections.

Abstract: A terminal fitting (T) has a rectangular tube (10) with a base plate (12) and first and second side plates (13L, 13R) that extend from opposite sides of the base plate (12). A ceiling plate (14) extends from the first side plate (13L) towards the second side plate (13R), and a recess (37) is formed at an extending edge of the ceiling plate (14). A pressing portion (38) extends from the second side plate (13R) and is accommodated in the recess (37) for preventing upward displacement of the ceiling plate (14). Thus, there is no significant step between the upper surfaces of the ceiling plate (14) and the pressing portion (38) and the height of the rectangular tube (10) can be reduced.

Abstract: An electrical connector (100) comprises a terminal block (1) and a plurality of terminals (2). The terminal block (1) comprises an inner wall (11), an outer wall (12) opposite to the inner wall (11) and a plurality of receiving slots (10) defined between the inner wall (11) and the outer wall (12) for receiving terminals (2). A plurality of terminals (2) are assembled to the receiving slots (10) of the terminal block (1) and each terminal (2) has a contacting portion (21), a soldering portion (23) and a base portion (22) connecting with the contacting portion (21) and the soldering portion (23). Wherein each receiving slot (10) further defines a projecting board (101) extending from the inner wall (11), a supporting portion (103) forming on the top of the outer wall (12) and a channel (102) defined between the projecting board (101) and the supporting portion (103), the projecting board (101) and the supporting portion (103) respectively supports two sides of the base portion (22) of the terminal (2).

Abstract: Contact-making device and method for connecting an electric conductor, in particular a wire-like and/or thread-like electric conductor which is arranged in a textile material, electrically to an electronic component. The device includes a substrate material, and at least one contact, which is formed on the substrate material, to connect the electric conductor electrically to the electronic component, the contact comprising a movable section and an immovable section. The movable section is formed such that, during the electrical connection operation, it is arranged substantially on a surface side opposite the immovable section.

Abstract: A backpack with backpack frame and adjustable shoulder harness removably fitting a person, the backpack further comprising an internal combustion engine with a pulley system connecting the engine to a propeller axle with propeller, a propeller surround with air intake and air outlet whereby the propeller propels a person upon a given surface. Handles comprise controls for throttle, kill switch, and lights. Handles are a part of the backpack frame or of ski poles. A pendulum emergency stop device kills the engine if the person falls.

Abstract: A mounting structure for mounting a jet propulsion pump in a body of a personal watercraft includes, a front mounting portion of the pump being mounted to a rear portion, in a planing direction of the watercraft body, and a ride plate mounted to the watercraft body, so as to be located beneath the pump, wherein the ride plate is mounted to watercraft body in at least two positions in the planing direction of the watercraft body. Further, an elastic member is disposed between the ride plate and the pump, such that a rear portion of the pump is supported by the ride plate through the elastic member.

Abstract: An outboard motor steering system for an outboard motor mounted on a stern of a boat and having an internal combustion engine and a propeller with a rudder powered by the engine to propel and steer the boat. The system includes a swivel shaft connected to the propeller, a swivel case rotatably accommodating the swivel shaft, and a hydraulic cylinder connected to the swivel shaft to rotate it. The swivel case is formed with a box-like recess to accommodate the hydraulic cylinder therein such that the hydraulic cylinder does not project outside a profile of the outboard motor, regardless of a steered angle of the outboard motor. A rotation angle sensor is also installed in the recess and outputs a signal indicative of an angle of swivel shaft rotation. Further, moving orifices are provided in a hydraulic pressure circuit of the actuator for relieving excessive hydraulic pressure. Thus, space utilization around the outboard motor and boat is not restricted and steering feel is improved.

Abstract: Apparatus for transferring cryogenic fluid from a first vessel (5) to a second vessel in an offshore environment. The apparatus includes a semi-submersible floating dock with variable buoyancy structure (14, 15) operable to alter the draught of the dock, enabling it to be lowered in the water and raised again to engage the dock with the second vessel. A single point mooring system (3) is attached to the dock. At least one rigid cryogenic pipeline is attached between the first vessel and the dock via flexible connections. A structure (12) for transferring cryogenic fluid from the dock to the second vessel.

Abstract: A self-mooring module. In particular, a self-mooring module that may be deployed by air, surface or underwater. The module includes a combination anchor/air brake, a buoy, and a mooring line. The module may also include a sensor module. The anchor, combination anchor/air brake and buoy may be used in combination as part of the module or may be used alone in different aspects. The anchor and combination anchor/air brake are foldable to conserve space. The buoy has reduced drag and increased stability versus regular buoys. The self-mooring module may also include an intelligent mooring line module that determines the amount of mooring line to be released for a particular mooring depth and does not release a substantive amount of extra or insufficient mooring line, thereby helping ensure proper placement of an sensor module. Other features include a release mechanism for releasing the anchor from the module and a mechanism for inflating the buoy.

Abstract: A swimmer's hand paddle simulating a human hand is formed from a generally planar member of PVC foam and has a central dome-shaped palm area for receiving the palm of the swimmer's hand. The paddle includes areas for receiving the thumb and fingers of the swimmer's hand. A wrist strap and one or more finger straps secures the user's hand to the paddle. The palm area, and also the areas which receive the swimmer's thumb and fingers, are provided with a series of apertures to allow the swimmer to feel passing water. The paddle is shaped to include an inwardly directed groove such that the peripheral portion of the paddle nearest the swimmer's second finger lies closer to the central palm area than do the peripheral portions nearest the index finger and ring finger. Also, an indented peripheral portion is formed between the swimmer's thumb and index finger.

Abstract: An electroluminescent element which is superior in luminescence properties and lifetime can be provided by forming a thin film with high controllability according to the invention. An electroluminescent layer is formed over a first electrode by applying a current density of from 0.4 to 1.5 mA/cm2 for from 0.8 to 3.0 seconds to a first electrode of the electroluminescent element in accordance with the fact that an electrolytic polymerization film can be formed over the surface of the electrode uniformly by keeping a current density and time for applying the current to the electrode within a predetermined range during electrolytic polymerization especially when the electrolytic polymerization film is required to be a thin film.

Abstract: A cathode with an improved work function, for use in a lithographic system, such as the SCALPEL™ system, which includes a buffer between a substrate and an emissive layer, where the buffer alters, randomizes, miniaturizes, and/or isolates the grain structure at a surface of the substrate to reduce the grain size, randomize crystal orientation and reduce the rate of crystal growth. The buffer layer may be a solid solution or a multiphase alloy. A method of making the cathode by depositing a buffer between a surface of the substrate and an emissive layer, where the deposited buffer alters, randomizes, miniaturizes, and/or isolates the grain structure at a surface of the substrate to reduce the grain size, randomize crystal orientation and reduce the rate of crystal growth.

Abstract: A novelty item that spins at least one array of lights to produce a predetermined changing pattern of lights. The device has at least one array of lights that is supported by at least one flexible arm. The arms radially extend from a spinning hub. Consequently, when the arms rotate, the various lights in the array of lights rotate about the hub in a variety of circular pathways. A control circuit is provided in the hub that spins with the arms. The lights in the array of lights are coupled to the control circuit. The control circuit selectively flashes the lights in the array of lights in a manner that is synchronous to the speed at which the various lights are traveling in their circular pathways. As a result, the control circuit can cause the spinning array of lights to produce any desired pattern, display or alphanumeric message.

Abstract: A moulded brassiere having a core of a first molded foam and a laminated second foam layer. An intermediate bridge between the cups with a flexible non-stretch bridge between the cups. Outer fabric layers extend beyond the core and defining straps.

Abstract: A polishing pad can include a first layer and a second layer. The first layer can have a first polishing surface and a first opening. The second layer can have an attaching surface and a second opening substantially contiguous with the first opening. The polishing pad can further include a pad window lying within the first opening. The pad window can include a second polishing surface and a gas-permeable material. In one aspect, an apparatus can include an attaching surface of a platen lying adjacent to the attaching surface of the polishing pad. In another aspect, a process for polishing can include changing a temperature of a gas within a spaced-apart region formed between a pad and a platen. The process can also include forming a gas flux across the polishing pad after polishing has started.

Abstract: An apparatus including an applicator having a first end for mating with a device capable of manipulation by a human hand and a second end having an abrasive surface suitable for contacting areas of human skin, such as, to rejuvenate human skin. There may also be a cushioning layer disposed between the abrasive surface and the end of the applicator it is attached to. A method for manipulating the applicator over an area of human skin to apply the abrasive surface to remove a layer of human skin, with, or without applying a composition to the area of human skin. A composition including abrasive particles in a base.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a semiconductor wafer edge is provided. The apparatus includes a film with an abrasive layer configured to contact the edge surface of a semiconductor substrate coated with a contaminant residue layer. A first reel having the film wound thereon and a second reel for receiving the film fed from the first reel are included. In one embodiment, a third reel configured to force the abrasive layer of the film against the edge surface of the semiconductor substrate so as to create an area of contact between the abrasive layer and the edge surface of the semiconductor substrate; and a pin that protrudes from to the top surface of the third reel. A system and method for cleaning a semiconductor wafer edge are also provided.

Abstract: Disclosed is a device for grinding a liquid crystal display panel improving the efficiency of using equipment by independently operating first and second grinding units for grinding the unit liquid crystal display panel. The present invention includes a first grinding unit grinding edges of short or long sides of the unit liquid crystal display panel in a normal mode and a second grinding unit grinding the edges of the short or long sides of the unit liquid crystal display panel that are not ground by the first grinding unit in the normal mode or grinding the edges of the long and short sides of the unit liquid crystal display panel in an emergency mode.

Abstract: A grinder with easily installable/detachable grinding disc and a linkage effect. The grinder includes a main body in which a rotary shaft is disposed for a grinding disc mounted under a bottom end of the rotary shaft. A controlling button is switchable for powering on or off the grinder. A linking member is connected with the rotary shaft. A chucking mechanism is mounted in the main body for chucking the linking member. The chucking mechanism has a linking relationship with the controlling button. After powered off, the chucking mechanism is operable to chuck the linking member and prevent the rotary shaft from rotating. At this time, a user can conveniently replace the grinding disc. During replacement of the grinding disc, it is impossible to switch on the controlling button. When the chucking mechanism releases the linking member. The controlling button can be switched on. At this time, it is impossible for the chucking mechanism to chuck the linking member.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a workshop unit for use as a grinding center that includes a support frame having a drive motor and a multi-station tool mounted thereto. Particularly, the grinding center may be used for operations including but not limited to grinding, buffing, polishing, sanding, and cleaning. The multi-station tool includes a plurality of rotary tools, a power transfer system, and a rotary tool selecting system. The power transfer system operates through a plurality of pulleys each in communication with at least one rotary tool and the drive motor through a plurality of transmission links. The rotary tool selecting system, which includes one or more control shafts and a clutch system, allows each tool to be selectively and independently operated.

Abstract: A Belt Sander Eraser Attachment is disclosed. The attachment is configured to be attached to a conventional belt sander such that it provides the operator with the ability to remove built up sawdust and the like from the sanding belt. The device removably replaces the conventional front handle on a sander and the new handle has functionality as both a handle and an actuator for the belt sander eraser. The eraser actuation is convenient and ergonomically comfortable for the user while the sander is in use.

Abstract: A polishing article and method for manufacturing a polishing article for use in a chemical mechanical polishing process is disclosed. The polishing article has a plurality of polishing material tiles separated by grooves formed in or through a polishing material and may be adhesively bound to a base film. The polishing article may include various polygonal tiles and oval shapes formed in the polishing material which allow enhanced slurry retention and ease in rolling from a polishing material supply roll and onto a take-up roll in a web type platen assembly. The polishing article may also include an upper carrier film adapted to minimize delaminating stress placed in an area of the polishing article that is not adapted for polishing. A method and apparatus for manufacturing the various embodiments of the polishing article and a replacement supply roll are also disclosed.

Abstract: A fully automated apparatus and system for processing shellfish such as shrimp and crawfish including the cooking, drying and peeling thereof. The present invention utilizes excessive heat generated by boilers to heat the dryers. The product is cooked in a brine mix that once used is transferred to a broth processing system to make a seafood flavored broth and is also injected as a fine mist into a furnace where it crystallizes into a solid product to be used as a seafood flavored salt.

Abstract: A machine and method for encasing sausages by having a stuffing tube that is vertically disposed in order to allow gravity to help in the sausage making process. A conical shaped restricting device is attached to the stuffing tube to help facilitate the movement of the casing into a twisting mechanism and to ensure bunching in the casing is reduced. The casing is then fed through the twisting mechanism and into a linker.

Abstract: A fish scaler assembly for removing scales from a fish such that scales and grime do not accumulate on a scraper. The assembly can be connected to a pressurized water source by threaded coupling having an adapter. A flexible tube on the adapter transports water between the water source and a nozzle attached to the scraper. Water flows from an outlet of the nozzle over the scraper to prevent the accumulation of scales and grime on a scraping portion of the scraper. The outlet of the nozzle is placed at a distance from the scraping portion to prevent to clogging of the outlet.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods for cleaning residual visceral matter from the belly cavity of a gutted fish. The cleaning apparatus includes a scraper attached at the mouth of a suction tube by a hinge. An actuator pivots the scraper about the hinge between an extended position biased into contact with the interior wall of the belly cavity and a retracted position out of contact with the wall. In the retracted position, the scraper covers the mouth of the suction tube to prevent dislodged visceral matter from falling back into the belly cavity. In the extended position, the scraper uncovers the mouth of the suction tube to allow scraped visceral matter to be sucked from the belly cavity.

Abstract: A cap for a flue opening of a chimney in order to enhance draw of smoke and in order to protect from entry of animals, debris, and the elements. The device includes a tubular housing having sidewalls fabricated from flat sheet metal and a top attached to the sidewalls from fasteners. A plurality of louver openings are provided in the sidewalls in order to draw air. A plurality of exit vent openings in the sidewalls above the louver openings are at least equal to a cross-sectional area of the flue opening. An inner frame and mounting assembly includes a mechanism to both anchor the device to the chimney flue and to level the device.

Abstract: The automatic vent damper has various embodiments of a wind actuated vent system, which automatically closes to preclude entry of wind blown water when a wind of predetermined velocity and direction acts upon the device. The damper may be installed as an off-ridge or ridge vent system, or in other operating environments and installations as desired. Various mechanisms are used to operate the device, with all including one or more springs, which hold a rigid door or flap, open in light wind conditions. However, when a wind of sufficient velocity blows toward the vent opening, the door or flap is closed due to aerodynamic forces thereon to preclude entry of wind blown water into the device. The door or flap automatically opens again due to the spring mechanism when the wind abates.

Abstract: A reel based game that requires skill, fast reflexes, good memory, and strategy to play well. In the preferred embodiment, a video screen is used to electronically display the apparent rotation of several reels. A player presses a stop button to stop the rotation of the reels. If a player can stop a symbol on the reel in a required location on the screen, then the player is rewarded according to a pre-determined table of rewards. In an electronic version of the game, there can be a bonus symbol that allows a player to enter a bonus round where rewards are higher. A player can use concentration and memory to increase the likelihood of successfully stopping desired symbols in the appropriate location by recognizing what symbols appear in what order on the reels. In an electronic version of the game, the symbols will be periodically shuffled on the reel to renew the challenge for a player.

Abstract: A game method and device is set forth where a player makes a wager and selects numbers from a field or universe of numbers as in Keno or the Lottery. The outcome numbers are selected and compared to the player's selections and any matches are indicated. Based upon the number of matches, the player may win a prize. The player may then select a second set, including any matches from the prior comparison, and play a second round. The second set is compared to the outcome set, matches are noted based upon the number of matches a prize may be awarded. Additional rounds may be played. At the conclusion of the game the outcome set is revealed.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for operating a gaming system. In one embodiment, an outcome amount associated with a total number of events is determined. For example, a total payout amount associated with a number of instant lottery tickets may be determined. Based on a parameter associated with a player, the outcome amount is allocated among the total number of events. The outcome amount may be allocated, for example, based on a total number of events selected by the player.

Abstract: A gaming apparatus that comprises a display unit that is capable of generating video images, a value input device, and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit and the value input device. The controller comprises a processor and a memory that are operatively coupled to the processor. The controller is programmed to allow a person to make a wager, and to cause a display portion representing an image of a rotating wheel to be generated on the display unit, wherein the rotating wheel has a section with a symbol displayed thereon. The controller is programmed to cause the symbol image to be displayed in a first orientation relative to the wheel when the wheel lies in a first angular orientation and to cause the symbol image to be adjusted so that the symbol image is displayed in a second orientation that is angularly spaced from the first angular orientation. The controller is also programmed to determine a value payout associated with an outcome of a game incorporating the wheel.

Abstract: Hardware, systems, devices, architecture and methods for a wagering game-specific platform features secure storage and verification of game code and/or other data. An external connection securely communicates with a computerized wagering gaming system. Some embodiments of the invention provide the ability to identify game program code as certified or approved. This is provided by use of various electronic devices and elements for encryption, including at least a device that is internally embedded in the gaming device that access digital signatures, encrypted files, encrypted compiled files and hash functions as well as other encryption methods. Such functions are able to be effected, and security and validation is advantageously applied to data loaded into storage media even while the gaming machine is in operation.

Abstract: A cellular telephone breeding toy includes a memory storing genetic traits of corresponding breedable virtual fish. The memory also stores sets of image templates, there being at least one genetic trait associated with each image template. A keypad is used to select one or more of the virtual fish, and to render the virtual fish according to the genetic traits and the sets of image templates. Lineage of the virtual fish can also be displayed, and the virtual fish can be traded between cellular telephones using communications protocols. Genetic traits of two virtual fish can be combined randomly to generate off-springs.

Abstract: A universal joint having a cross-member journal or trunnion with a lubrication chamber includes a combination of a thrust washer and lubrication baffle press fit into the lubrication chamber. The thrust washer and lubrication baffle incorporate one or more lubrication grooves, facilitating the flow of lubricant between the surfaces of the cross-member and bearing cap. Elastomeric properties of the thrust washer eliminate the need for grinding of the journal surfaces to desired tolerances, while incorporation of lubrication grooves into the thrust washer surface eliminates the need for pressing of lubrication grooves directly into the journal ends prior to hardening or heat treating.

Abstract: A control system for a water amusement system is described. The control system is configured to operate the water amusement system to produce water effects, sound effects, and/or light effects when the control system receives an activation signal. The activation signal may be sent to the control system by an activation point, such as an optical touch button, or a water target. The control system is further configured to produce water effects, sound effects, and/or light effects in the absence of an activation signal to attract participants to the water amusement system.

Abstract: A billiard cue includes a forward body defined by a first constantly tapered configuration securely mounted to a backward body defined by a second constantly tapered configuration. A cue tip is attached to an open end of the forward body and a butt cap is attached to an open end of the backward body. The backward body has a longitudinal threaded bore with an opening thereof at the open end of the backward body. At least a threaded weight device is received and engaged in the bore of the backward body from the opening in such a way that the location of the weight device can be adjusted independently.