Abstract: A versatile fuel cartridge for storing methanol and water, methanol/water mixture or methanol/water mixtures of varying concentrations is disclosed. The present invention utilizes a filler insert preferably occupying a small portion of the volume of the fuel cartridge, so that the fuel cartridge may hold more fuel to ensure a longer life. The filler insert is capable of wicking and transporting the fuel to the MEA. Additionally, the filler insert remains in physical contact with the fuel in any orientation of the fuel cartridge and at any fuel level in the fuel cartridge. The fuel cartridge may have more than one chamber, and preferably each chamber contains a different concentration of fuel. Optionally, the fuel cartridge may include a pump to initiate fuel flow from the fuel reservoir. The pump may regulate the flow of fuel and importantly to shut off the flow of fuel, when necessary.

Abstract: A portable liquid dispenser includes a blow molded housing defining a cavity within the entire interior thereof. A centralized walled aperture is provided to receive an appropriate dispensing pump, the pump being configured to extend outwardly in a usable position and to lock in an inwardly position where the dispensing nozzle of the pump does not extend beyond the sidewalls of the dispenser itself. A fill and relief valve is provided to accommodate rapid filling of the dispenser during a manufacturing process, and to accommodate breathing of the container during the dispensing operation such that the unvented pump does not result in any distortion of the dispenser as the liquid therein is depleted.

Abstract: A one way valve assembly flows a sterile flowable substance from a source to an outlet orifice and prevents any backflow of contaminants through the one way valve assembly when the flowable substance ceases to flow. The valve assembly includes an elastomeric membrane which aids in preventing any backflow of contaminants when dispensing of the flowable substance is stopped.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a closure suitable for dispensing pourable product from a container. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a “twist to open” type closure operated by a twisting action.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispensing closure suitable for dispensing pourable product from a container. More specifically, the present invention is directed to a “flip-top” type closure operated by an actuating means.

Abstract: Caulking tube nozzle, having a nozzle portion, with an integral base, and having a lip connecting and extending downwardly therefrom, the lip is intended for inserting within the upper end of the caulking tube, and is threadedly engaged, held by a bayonet lock, or other fastener, therein, so that the nozzle can be held in place during usage, or opened for removal of any hardened material, before usage. The base of the nozzle may also under certain circumstances engage externally of the upper end of the caulking tube.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dressing aid (10) for putting on an article of clothing provided with at least one opening. Said aid comprises the following components: (a) a mounting section (17a, 17b) for at least partially mounting the article of clothing, (b) an expansion mechanism (11a, 11b, 14) for expanding the mounting section, thus widening the opening of the mounted article of clothing, and (c) locking means (24, 25), which prevent the contraction of the mounting part once the article of clothing has been mounted. The invention also relates to a dressing aid (90) for taking off an article of clothing of this type and to a set comprising a dressing aid (10) for putting on and an aid (90) for taking off said clothing.

Abstract: A golf bag and integrated liquid hydration system that allows golfers to bring multiple servings of liquids onto the golf course, while not increasing the amount of items he would normally carry. The hydration system is also able to serve multiple users in a hygienic fashion.

Abstract: A backpack that is convertible to a toy kite. The backpack has strings that are useable either as kite strings or as shoulder harnesses. The backpack may optionally be fitted with looms that take out the excess string when used as shoulder harnesses. The backpack also may optionally be fitted with clamps that secure the bottom of the pack when used as a backpack and double as handles when used as a kite.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a holster to a belt worn by an individual. The holster includes straps that wrap around the belt to secure the holster to the belt. The straps each include an opening formed through the strap intermediate snap members attached to the strap. The opening interlock with a tooth extending from the holster such that the strap is secured in place on the belt.

Abstract: A tether for securing a variety of instruments. The tether may include a band sized to fit a human wrist, a lanyard formed as a continuous, closed loop, an interface connecting the lanyard to the band, and a lock. The lock may adjustably pinch the lanyard to form two sub-loops therefrom. By adjusting the location where the lock pinches the lanyard, the size of one sub-loop may be continuously increased or decreased, while the size of the other sub-loop may be simultaneously, continuously, and respectively decreased or increased. Accordingly, by adjusting the location where the lock pinches the lanyard, the size of the one sub-loop may continuously vary between a minimum size and a maximum size. In one embodiment, this minimum size may corresponding to an interior diameter within the one sub-loop of substantially zero.

Abstract: A wrist cover has a body, a phone holder and an adjusting device. The body has a ventilating layer and two wrist wings. The phone holder is attached to the body and has a covering sheet and a connecting tab. The covering sheet is attached to the ventilating layer and defines a holding space between the covering sheet and the ventilating layer and an opening. A first fastener is mounted on the covering sheet. The connecting tab is formed on and extends from the body to partially close the opening and has a second fastener detachably connected with the first fastener. The adjusting device is mounted on the body and has a connection strap and an adjusting strap. The connection strap and the adjusting strap are connected respectively to the wrist wings and are detachably connected with each other.

Abstract: According to the invention the pet caddy has a substantially flat bottom, a soft side wall extending from the bottom to an open top encircled with a rim structure to maintain an opening at the toe, with two integral brackets adjacent to the top arranged to clamp around the bicycle handlebars to support the caddy with a removable strut secured to the bottom and extending to neck of the handle bars to support the caddy in a vertical position, plus a strap located on the inside surface of the wall for connecting a short leash to restrain a pet while in the caddy. Handles are connected to the wall so that the caddy can be carried like a satchel without removing a pet. Removable padding inserted on the bottom enclosure of the housing creates a more comfortable environment for the pet and can be removed and replaced if soiled. The base of wall also has a plurality of ventilation ports for air circulation.

Abstract: A roping belt comprises a lining structure, and an equipment-carrying device achieved by means of a continuous cord fixed by seams along the lining structure forming a succession of attachment loops. The ends of the cord are securedly attached to the belt by first end seams able to withstand higher forces than those of the second intermediate seams forming the attachment loops.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for the transport of web-like material, in particular printed webs or packets of printed webs fed from a fold former positioned downstream of a printing machine with a roll that can be driven and against which pressure-application rolls can be adjustably pressed is disclosed. A high degree of working and operational security can be achieved by arranging that the pressure-application rolls are carried by a relevant assigned position-setting assembly which exhibits at least one actuating element capable of receiving an impulse from a pressure-applying agent, where the impulse from the pressure-applying agent can be controlled according to a pre-settable timing sequence by a control device.

Abstract: A compact single-blow pneumatic nailing tool for installing metal joist hangers and metal plates in wood-constructed houses. A lower nosepiece reciprocates with respect to an upper nosepiece, and, as the lower nosepiece reciprocates, an attached nail magazine moves jointly therewith. A safety linkage connected to the magazine engages a trigger lever and permits the tool to be fired only when the lower nosepiece is pressed against the workpiece. The tool does not need a guide tip or elaborate safety to guide a nail into a hole in the workpiece, and does not have a vision-blocking safety mechanism on the tip of the nose. The tip of the nail sticks out of the nose of the tool, facilitating placement into a hole in the workpiece.

Abstract: A stationary annular abutting member 14E is provided with a first projecting section that operates as part of a ratchet mechanism. A rotational flange section is provided with a second projecting section that operates as part of the ratchet mechanism. The first projecting section projects in the direction from the ON position toward the OFF position of a plunger of a solenoid. The second projecting section projects in the direction from the OFF position toward the ON position of the plunger. When a driven rotor starts rotating and comes to a rotary position slightly short of the rotary position of about ¾ of a full turn in the ON state of the solenoid, the projecting end of the first projecting section and that of the second projecting section are located opposite to each other and the second projecting section rides on the first projecting section.

Abstract: A surgical stapling device for applying an array of surgical staples to tissue is provided. The stapling device includes an approximation mechanism for moving a cartridge assembly and an anvil assembly between spaced and approximated positions and a firing mechanism for ejecting the array of staples from the cartridge assembly. A single trigger is operable to effect approximation and firing of the device. The device also includes an alignment pin assembly which can be selectively manually or automatically advanced. The anvil assembly includes a stiffener plate which allows the device to have a reduced head portion profile.

Abstract: Method and system for monitoring and controlling at least one of the plurality of quantifiable heat affected zone (“HAZ”) characteristics in a weld of metal pieces provides a user with information concerning at least a first quantifiable HAZ characteristic for a weld, and also provides for control of an operating condition of a welding apparatus to obtain a weld having a quantifiable HAZ characteristic that satisfies success criteria relating to performance of the fabricated component.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a printed circuit board includes providing a board including a plurality of electrical traces, a first surface, and a second surface opposite the first surface. The method further includes providing at least one surface mount component having a plurality of electrical terminals. The method also includes applying an adhesive on the first surface of the board, and adhering the surface mounting component to the first surface. The method also includes wave soldering the surface mount component on the first surface to the board to encapsulate at least a portion of the electrical terminals of the surface mount component with a lead-free solder.

Abstract: To provide a packaging material having an opening mechanism capable of easily opening an upper face of a packaging sheet for packaging food or other items by only a one-touch operation of the upper face being pulled to counter directions, the packaging material has a packaging sheet opening mechanism 2 comprising a perforated line 3 formed at a packaging sheet 1 and a belt-shaped cover sheet 4 provided at the inside of the perforated line 3 of the packing sheet 1 so as to position the perforated line 3 approximately at a center in the longitudinal direction an one side end edge in the longitudinal direction of the belt-shaped cover sheet 4 being adhered so as not to contact it with the perforated line 3.

Abstract: A carton includes a pivoting, reclosable lid that allows a top end of the carton to be accessed and subsequently closed. If a bag or other flexible vessel is accommodated within the carton, a first section of the lid can be pivoted toward a first side panel so that the vessel is pressed between the first lid section and the first side panel. The bag contents are thereby securely retained within the carton.

Abstract: A carton is provided including an outer top panel, a pair of opposed end panels hingedly connected to the outer top panel, an integral strap handle extending between the end panels under the outer top panel, and an inner top panel which effectively maintains a closed carton even after activation of the strap handle. The carton is formed from a first blank of material, and the strap handle is formed from second blank of material. The second blank is folded to form a strap handle with an attached inner top panel, and this assembly is then glued to the inside of the carton outer top panel, as both a strap handle and a protective layer.

Abstract: A divider is provided for use with a container. The divider includes a body and a projection having angled edges converging toward one another as the angled edges extend away from the body. At least one of the angled edges intersects a side edge of the body.

Abstract: A mailbox game includes a mailbox having a rectangular container or box with an opening, a lid and a hinge that attaches the lid to the box to cover the opening. The game also includes play stamps having an adhesive backing. The mailbox may have a rotating flag that is attached to the box and there may also be a dial with to provide a mailbox status of full or empty.

Abstract: A cash register is provided with a pilfer prevention construction. Openings are formed in both the cash tray and the bottom panel of the sliding drawer as well as the bottom panel of the cash register. The opening of the sliding drawer is covered with a transfer door panel hingedly mounted at its front edge to the bottom panel of the drawer. A spring-biassed latch maintains the transfer door panel in a closed position when the drawer extends outside the cash register. A control means is provided which is operative to release the latch so that the transfer door panel will swung open downwards through the opening of the bottom of the cash register to dispense money from cash tray into a safety deposit box located below the cash register. The transfer door panel will be automatically closed whenever the sliding drawer moves outwards.

Abstract: A device for resolving interpersonal relationship issues comprising: (a) a plurality of text sheets comprised of flexible, transparent material; (b) a rigid front cover; and (c) a rigid back cover; wherein each text sheet comprises an opaque band bearing text on either side of the opaque band, such that different text is presented on each side of the text sheet; wherein both the front and back covers comprise one or more text windows through which the text on the opaque band of the text sheets can be viewed. The text that is presented on one side of each disc relates to one or more interpersonal problem(s) and the text that is presented on the other side of each disc relates to possible solutions to the problem(s). In a preferred embodiment, the text sheets are comprised of MYLAR® polyester film.

Abstract: Providing users in the field includes portable access to industry-specific programs, instructions and data. Field data synchronization and/or delivery is enabled using wireless capabilities resident in handheld personal computing devices. Data can be synchronized with a server over a network using wireless radio transmission, or directly to a computer workstation using wireless infrared or radio transmission or connected physical connection. Two-way communications is provided between remote computers and handheld data management devices to facilitate real-time access to remote programs, assistance and/or information related to the field assessment being undertaken by using a handheld data management device user. Field data management includes activities for at least one of: construction industry project analysis, HVAC system analysis, project management, equipment readiness inspection, troubleshooting, inventory tracking, inventory ordering, sales (e.g.

Abstract: Balancing image cash letters (“ICLs”) and ICL items during electronic check processing includes determining whether each item has been presented to a receiving institution for payment. A tracking module can track an incoming ICL/item's processing status using records comprising information regarding the ICL/item's status for electronic check processing events. The tracking module can present the ICL/item's processing status in one or more reports. The tracking module can balance an ICL by comparing an incoming ICL value amount with an outgoing ICL value amount. The incoming ICL value amount comprises the total value of the items in the incoming ICL. The outgoing ICL value amount comprises the total value of the items in the incoming ICL that have been presented to a receiving institution via one or more outgoing ICLs. If the amounts match, then the incoming ICL is balanced. If not, then the ICL is not balanced.

Abstract: One-time-use tickets containing a unique identification code that allow for prepayment of entertainment or personal services are distributed and sold. When a ticket is sold, it is activated by the seller notifying a ticket information manager of its sale, at which time the ticket's unique identification code is recorded by the ticket information manager. Part of the sale price is transferred by the vendor to an account maintained by a ticketing program manager. Ticket-holders present the ticket for redemption of the particular service from an agreed service provider. The service provider verifies the ticket's validity by checking with the ticket information manager that the ticket's unique identification code is valid and that the ticket has been activated.

Abstract: Steven Elefant claims priority to provisional patent application No. 60/733,054, dated Nov. 2, 2005, and titled “System and Method for Providing Consolidated Fuel Pricing Information.” Aircraftfuel.com is a service to assist pilots, owners and flight departments compare fuel pricing from multiple discount and regular fuel providers and see them presented as a single source. The system quickly and efficiently provides consolidated pricing information, by destination or flight route, from a plurality of sources on a nearly real-time basis.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system for checking the security features of documents of value with at least one sensor in areas of different security categories. Since dependent on the security category different sensor parameters are made available for the respective checking of the security feature, so as to check the same security feature in different ways, the preparing of forgeries can be prevented particularly reliably.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention feature a method of managing a monetary value stored in an electronic wallet of a mobile device. These management operations include receiving an indication that the mobile device from a mobile device account of a mobile device carrier cannot be located and is either lost or stolen. Subsequently, a determination is made to see if the mobile device has an associated electronic wallet capable of storing a monetary value. Generally, the use of mobile device and access to electronic wallet is blocked in response to determination that mobile device has an associated electronic wallet. In addition, the electronic wallet can be flagged such that the electronic wallet associated with mobile device will be drained of monetary value as well as being blocked.

Abstract: The foreign currency conversion system o the present invention includes the receiving means for a foreign currency by delivering means including a mailing, home delivery or delivery service in a condition that the foreign currency is put in a storage body including an envelope, case or box; issuing means for specific card including a magnetic card, IC card and the like which saves points that corresponds to the amount of the foreign currency calculated according to a conversion rate at the foreign currency at a predetermined period; and the conversion shop having a conversion-clearing system, capable of purchasing a gift certificate and commercial goods and converting depending on the point of the specific card. Therefore, it makes value and smooth circulation of the foreign currency money to increase and improve in the present invention, and it can increase the effect of the foreign currency money.

Abstract: A method of exchanging a check, cash or electronic funds transfer comprises receiving a check, cash or electronic funds transfer from a presenter at a receiving entity, the check having an amount printed thereon and made by an entity other than the presenter, the electronic funds transfer made by an entity other than the presenter, establishing a card account of the receiving entity, crediting the card account of the receiving entity with an amount corresponding to the check amount, cash amount or electronic funds transfer amount, associating a card with a value corresponding to the check amount, cash amount or electronic funds transfer amount to create a stored value card, and presenting the stored value card to the presenter.

Abstract: A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.

Abstract: A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.

Abstract: A cash dispensing automated banking machine (10) includes a user interface (12) including an opening (20). Users of the machine deliver individual sheets and stacks of sheets to and from the machine through the opening. Stacks of sheets may include sheets such as notes, checks or other documents. Stacks input to the machine may include mixtures of various types of sheets. The machine operates to receive notes, process checks and perform other operations. Notes received in the machine may be recycled and dispensed to other users. Checks processed by the machine may be imaged by an imaging device, cancelled and stored in the machine or alternatively returned to a user.

Abstract: A partition card having a radio chip is used, and identification information from the radio chip is detected by a card recognition unit.

Abstract: The present invention is a global identification authentication system where fee based subscribers can verify the authenticity of personal identification submitted to the subscribers with substantially immediate access, by non-governmental entities, to identification databases to verify whether any particular identification is valid, invalid or non-existing in the identification document databases.

Abstract: A method of storing information on a memory device. The method comprises setting up a user to be associated with the memory device including biometric information obtained from a biometric reader. The method also comprises coding at least a portion of the biometric information before storage in the memory device.

Abstract: A wireless system for managing a plurality of remote vending machines includes an enterprise control center; and a two-way wireless network coupling the enterprise control center and the plurality of remote vending machines. A touch screen may be associated with each of the plurality of vending machines for selecting items to be vended therein, and means for displaying a plurality of advertisements on the touch screen. The touch screen may also include means for paying for the items to be vended within the plurality of vending machines.

Abstract: An information processing apparatus permits a device which has set secret information into the information processing apparatus to refer to the secret information and inhibits other devices than the device from referring to the secret information, to thereby prevent secret information from leaking via any of the other devices. A determination is made whether there is a match between a device ID acquired from a device connected to an expansion card and stored in the expansion card and a device ID acquired in response to a request for reference to the secret information from a device to which the expansion card is currently connected. Reference to be made by the device to the secret information stored in the expansion card is permitted or inhibited according to a result of the determination.

Abstract: In order to provide personalized transaction assistance using sensor networks, a user interacts with the sensor networks within, for example, a retail environment, using a wireless mobile device. The user is provided with timely, convenient, and personalized information related to products for sale within the retail environment. More specifically, for example, a message exchange between the sensor network and the mobile device is automatically initiated, such that the user is provided with information regarding, for example, an availability, description, price, and/or location of products in which the user has previously expressed a purchase interest. In this way, a probability of a sale is increased for the retail environment, as well as a likelihood that the user will be happy with the purchase experience, and these benefits are provided with a minimal amount of effort required of the user.

Abstract: Generally described, the invention provides for an indicia that is associated with a pick up notice left at a pick up location. This indicia is “linked” to the parcel(s) that were intended for pick up at the location, which may be done by a handheld portable data acquisition device that includes a scanning or reading means, allowing information to be acquired from the pick up notice as well as from the parcels, and stored on the handheld portable data acquisition device. Parcel's that do not comply with a carrier's business rules are left at the business location, along with the pick up notice. The indicia is then used to access information about the parcels that were left behind and arrange for re-pick up or alternate pick up instructions, including canceling pick up. The indicia may also be used to track parcels that were picked up as well as to make alternate delivery arrangements for the picked up parcels.

Abstract: Systems and methods disclosed herein use environmental sensor technology to enhance the tracking and transporting capabilities of a product delivery system. The systems and methods provide the capability to track and verify the environmental condition(s) to which a product is subjected during its transportation or movement through a supply chain. In particular, the systems and methods allow a sender, a receiver, and other authorized persons to access or interrogate environmental data that describes the environmental conditions to which a product within a container has been subjected during transport from the sender to the receiver. The systems and methods also permit in-transit intercept handling when it is determined that a package was unexpectedly subjected to an environmental condition that by definition makes it unfit for delivery to the original receiver.

Abstract: A method and system is used for tracking and locating printer assets in an enterprise. Tracking these assets begins by receiving operational information that enables a printer to interoperate with computers and other printers on a network. Next, the asset tracking information associated with the printer is identified and stored along with the operational information onto the printer for operation of the printer and subsequent retrieval for inventory control. Locating printer assets begins by receiving a request for an inventory of printers on a network according to inventory criteria. The inventory criteria are then used to query one or more printers over the network to obtain operational configuration information and asset tracking information stored on the one or more printers. The resulting operational configuration information and asset tracking information is presented from the printers that meet the inventory criteria. This information is useful in printer management and inventory control.

Abstract: A method and system of tracking devices uses imaging and optionally tags. Tracking is performed when the identification information associated with the devices are initially received and exposed towards a scanning bar in an enclosure. This scanning bar scans at one or more predetermined intervals the one or more devices in the enclosure of hardware. The system for tracking devices includes an enclosure capable of receiving one or more devices positioned to expose identification information related to each device and a scanning bar movably coupled to the enclosure that passes over each of the one or more devices and captures images of the identification information exposed by each of the one or more devices.

Abstract: An envelope for use in containing and authenticating a ballot is presented. The envelope has a containment region dimensioned to receive a ballot or other desired document in accordance with the particular application with which the envelope is used and has a pre-defined area on the back to carry the signature of a person such as a voter using the envelope to vote by mail. A flap portion outside the pre-defined area is used to seal the containment region. A window cover is substantially in registration with the pre-defined signature area to obscure the signature in a first operative configuration and to reveal the pre-defined signature area in a second operative and to re-obscure the signature area after the signature area has been revealed whereby the ballot remains sealed during the pre-defined signature area obscured, revealed and re-obscured configurations. The window cover is arranged for automatic removal by mechanical opening means for automated processing.

Abstract: Disclosed are voting systems based on paper ballots that provide integrity of the election outcome through the novel use of encrypted votes and other techniques. In some example embodiments, holes through layers allow voters to see and mark symbols on lower layers, carbonless coatings allow voters to obtain substantially identical marks on facing surfaces, self-adhesive stickers are removed from one position and placed by voters hiding vote-revealing indicia on a second position, and scratch-off layers bearing vote-revealing indicia are destroyed while being removed to expose coded information. Simplified cryptography for realizing these systems is also presented. Related systems allow those with various disabilities to develop and check voted ballot forms that are substantially indistinguishable from those voted by other voters. Inclusion of write-in votes is provided for. Also provided are inclusion of provisional ballots and spoilt ballots and integration with registration sign-in.