Abstract: A method of manufacturing an entire piston, piston heads for example, especially intended for internal-combustion engines, wherein in an initial manufacturing step a blank that will eventually constitute the piston is preliminarily forged along a prescribed axis, shaping appropriate contours, and wherein in at least one subsequent manufacturing step the preliminarily shaped piston is finally forged along at least one other axis, creating additional contours.

Abstract: This invention provides a cooler having an excellent cooling performance, which is capable of being downsized and low-profiled, an electronic apparatus and a method for fabricating the cooler. The cooler (1) comprises lower board member (10) and upper complex board members. The lower board member (10) is made from plastic material and has a cavity portion (11) for allowing water or vapor to be circulated therein. The upper complex board members comprise board member (20) for a condenser part, upper board member (30), and board member (40) for a wick part. The board members (20) and (40) for the condenser part and the wick part, respectively, are made from metallic material having higher thermal conductivity such as copper and nickel. Each of the members has a groove for allowing them to be served as the condenser and the wick.

Abstract: Method of manufacturing a microscale nozzle, comprising the steps of forming a microscale channel in the top surface of a substrate, said microscale channel comprising an inlet end and a nozzle-end, depositing a nozzle-forming layer in a section of the microscale channel, and removing material from the substrate at the nozzle-end of the microscale channel to expose at least a portion of said nozzle-forming layer. The manufactured microscale nozzle may be used for transferring a liquid sample form a microchip fluidic system into an external analytical device.

Abstract: A battery-operated can opener includes a DC motor, a battery, a switching lever that controls electric connection between the battery and the DC motor, an actuating arm coupled to the switching lever for moving a cutter out of the can opening for cutting the lid of a can when switching on the DC motor, a guide gear wheel coupled to the DC motor through a transmission gear set for moving the can opener along the rim of the can to force the cutter to cut open the lid of the can.

Abstract: A device for determining an absolute angle of rotation of a rotational axis has a first measuring device for measuring an angle of rotation in a limited first measuring range and a second measuring device for determining an absolute angle range. The second measuring device transforms a rotation of the rotational axis into a linear shift.

Abstract: A laser level is adapted to direct a laser path against a working surface. The level comprises a base, the base comprising at least one pair of opposing edges, the base adapted to be positioned relative to the working surface such that each of the opposing edges is adjacent to the working surface. The level comprises an adhesive layer, the adhesive layer being situated on the base so as to removably affix the base on the working surface without damaging the working surface. The level comprising an activating switch, the switch being located on the level at a location offset from the laser path.

Abstract: An arrangement for use in a light beam projection device for adjusting an orientation of a projected light beam is disclosed. The arrangement comprises a base frame, a support platform adapted to set the orientation of the projected light beam, and a pivot member pivotally mounting the support platform relative to the base frame. A tilting motor is provided to the base frame and has a pair of output shafts influencing the orientation of the support platform, whereby rotation of the output shafts in a first direction tilts the support platform only along a first axis, and rotation of the output shafts in a second direction tilts the support platform only along a second axis. A power supply is provided for driving the tilting motor.

Abstract: Motorized indexed measuring head for a machine for measuring three-dimensional coordinates. The orientable axes are actuated by motors rigidly supported on bearings or ball bearings. The rotation is transmitted to the re-orientable elements by transmission elements having sufficient play so that the indexing accuracy is not impaired.

Abstract: Motorized indexed measuring head for a machine for measuring three-dimensional coordinates. Comprises one, two or more re-orientable elements to orient a probe feeler according to a plurality of indexed orientations. The orientable elements are guided in their rotation and sliding movements by undercut bushings and undercut shafts. The arrangement of the undercuts allows an accurate guiding in the rotation movement without impairing the indexing accuracy.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing siding boards comprises a body member, a siding-engagement member; and a cam member rotatably engaged with the body member. The cam member includes an eccentrically curved cam segment. The body member, siding-engagement member, and cam segment enable adjustment of vertical overlap of siding boards during installation with one of the boards engaged with the siding-engagement member and another board engaged against the eccentrically curved cam segment. A method for installing siding comprises engaging a pair of siding installation tools with an installed first siding board; positioning a second siding board against the eccentrically curved cam segments; adjusting vertical overlap of the boards by rotation of the cam members; securing the second board to an installation surface; rotating the cam members to disengage the cam segments from the second board; and disengaging and removing the installation tools from the first board.

Abstract: Apparatus for vaporization of powdered or granular material, includes a container for holding powdered or granular material having at least one component; a vaporization structure; and a positive displacement mechanism spaced from the vaporization structure defining a chamber for receiving powdered or granular material from the container, and delivering such powdered or granular material to the vaporization structure, the positive displacement mechanism defining an orifice for delivering powdered or granular material from the chamber to the vaporization structure, an actuable member movable in first and section directions into the orifice and back from the orifice to be spaced therefrom for driving powdered or granular material from the chamber through the orifice for delivery to the vaporization structure and a vibratory diaphragm for fluidized material in the chamber between the actuable member and the orifice.

Abstract: A burner for a gas dryer is made up of a mixing tube having an open end for admission of gas fuel into the mixing tube. At least one other opening proximate to the open end serves to admit air into the mixing tube for mixing the air and the gas fuel. A burner head is located at an end of the mixing tube opposite the open end for allowing a mix of gas fuel and air to be discharged and be ignited into a flame. A baffle is attached to the burner at the base of the burner head and extends radially outward therefrom to prevent disruption of combustion of the gas fuel and air mixture as a result of secondary air being drawn outside and along the length of the mixing tube from the open end thereof toward the burner head. An air heater assembly for gas dryer includes combustion chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet for allowing air to flow therethrough and be heated for being passed over clothes to be dried in a drum of a dryer.

Abstract: While venting clothes dryer heat outside may be acceptable during the summer months, it is desirable to reuse such heat once the outside temperature starts to fall. The disclosed heat recovery unit for a clothes dryer works towards meeting this need. The heat recovery unit may include a housing having a support box and a cover attached to the support box by a hinge. The cover may include an exhaust register and an indicator light cover through which a ‘clean filter now’ light, a ‘low flow’ light, and a ‘high temperature warning’ light may be viewed when lit. The heat recovery unit also may include a controls box positioned in the support box, where the controls box maintains electronic intelligence of the recovery unit. A recovery unit fan may be positioned in the support box to blow room temperature air up through a heat exchanger in the support box. An internal bypass channel may channel clothes dryer air around and outside of the heat exchanger during hot days.

Abstract: An insert having opposed permanent magnets is placed between upper and lower portions of a shoe sole to soften impacts and improve propulsion. The upper and lower sole portions are interconnected by tongue-and-groove connections. An magnetic spring insert for the heel of a shoe is also disclosed.

Abstract: A waterproofed and breathable sole (10) for shoes, characterized in that it comprises a tread (11) made of leather or similar breathable and water-permeable material, which is coverad at least partially in an upward region by a membrane (12) made of a material that is breathable and waterproof and is joined perimetrically to the tread (11) by means of a screen-printed sealing ring (14).

Abstract: This invention is the special sole construction, comprising an upper sole, an internal suspension support, a lower sole, a chamber and a U-support. It is used for the assembly of any shoe construction or footwear. The invention will aid in relief of pains arising from upward stroke against the heel of the foot from the heel of the shoe and generated during walking and standing with a heel shoe. The invention is to transmit the upward stroke from the heel of the shoe to the whole area of the sole of the foot and NOT JUST TO THE HEEL OF THE FOOT; and therefore minimizes and even eliminates the upward stroke against the heel of the foot in such that the wearer of the invention experiences the upward stroke from the heel of the shoe as if he wears the shoe without the heel. Finally, the invention helps prevent ankle pain, knee pain, hip pain and lower back pain.

Abstract: A releasable attachment is provided for parachutists' footwear to lessen the impact upon landing and to prevent injuries to the ankles, legs, knees and other body areas. The attachment consists of a fluid filled cavity and a blowout plug. The attachment is formed from a somewhat flexible polymeric material in which the cavity will collapse upon impact. The fluid contained therein will dispel and the blowout plug will release therefrom to dissipate the impact energy. The reservoir is affixed with straps to the footwear. The attachment can be quickly placed on the soles of the footwear before exiting the aircraft and easily removed after the parachutist lands. The cavities can be refilled and the blowout plugs replaced when the parachute is repacked.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes an outsole, a midsole, an insole, and a display element having a shape and a thickness. The display element shape can be circular, oval, or other shape appropriate for display through a shoe outsole. The display element has a color, such as a color that coordinates with team colors of a sports team. A cut-out having substantially the same shape and thickness as the display element is formed in the midsole for receiving the display element. The outsole includes a transparent portion through which a display element can be viewed from the bottom of the outsole.

Abstract: A display banner having connectable pole sections, some of which are flexible, insertable into a sleeve on a sheet shaped like a half-heart such that, when the assembled pole sections are so inserted, the pole sections form a J-shape or fish-hook shape and retain the sheet taut to the assembled pole. An anchor assembly receives the assembled display banner into a rotatable stem thereby permitting the display banner to rotate freely.

Abstract: A display system, including a banner made of a flexible, non-rigid sheet material, and including a plurality of elongate sleeves; a frame system to support the banner, the frame system including one or more quick-release receivers to facilitate removal of the frame members therefrom, yet which sufficiently retain the frame members during use.

Abstract: An inflatable device that includes at least one display panel for displaying an image by a multimedia device positioned in and/or connected to the inflatable device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a trigger system for small arms, said system including a hammer, a catch associated with the hammer, a trigger, and a trigger bar which cooperates with the trigger and has a first locking edge for engaging with a first fire locking element of the hammer. The aim of the invention is to create a trigger system which has a low trigger resistance and remains operable even in the event of firing failure. To this end, the trigger bar has a second locking edge for engaging with a second fire locking element of the hammer.

Abstract: A sear mechanism for firearms comprises a sear box 12, and an additional safety device to prevent the hammer 16 from releasing accidentally and to fire under the action of inertial forces acting along the direction of the axis of the barrel in case of impact of the firearm, the additional safety device being an interposing element 60 which is slidably mounted below the firing pin latch 43 in a housing having a first inclined plane element 63 and a second inclined plane element 63a which are arranged between lateral walls 62 to form a seat 61 which holds element 60 in a first position where it does not interfere with the operation of the firing pin latch 43 but allows said element 60 to move into a position where it prevents the pin latch 43 from moving downwardly to disengage hammer 16.

Abstract: A scope cover and warming assembly includes a tubular covering that includes an open first end, an open second end and a peripheral wall extending between the first and second ends. The covering has an elongated slot therein generally extending from the first end to the second ends. A heating apparatus is attached to the covering and is adapted for heating an area adjacent to the first and second ends. Each of a pair of heat emitters is positioned adjacent to one of the first and second ends. A power supply is electrically coupled to each of the heat emitters. The covering may be removably positioned on a gun scope so that each of the heat emitters abuts an opposite end of the gun scope.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a support stand for a fishing pole holder, and is particularly adapted for ice fishing. In use, the stand holds the fishing pole in a generally upward angled position. The fishing pole is held in a pivotal position, so that upon sensing a hit on the attached line, the fishing pole tips downward. Legs, for supporting the body of the stand, can be placed in a first position or a second position, depending on the conditions of use for the stand. When not in use, the legs of the stand can be stored within the body.

Abstract: A support stand assembly for a rod and reel combination comprises a vertical support member, adapted for extending from a support surface. The support member includes a horizontal top surface and at least one vertical side surface. A T-shaped slot is positioned adjacent the at least one vertical surface of the support member and extends a selected distance into the support member from the top surface thereof. A leg of the T-shaped slot intersects the at least one vertical surface of the vertical support member. An attachment member is secured to the rod of a rod and reel combination proximal the balancing point thereof. The attachment member engages with the T-shaped slot of the support member to support the rod and reel combination in a horizontal position. The attachment member disengages from the T-shaped slot of the support member upon upward movement of the rod and reel combination.

Abstract: A float device which provides an on-demand change in tacking or planing direction without having to retrieve the float or adjust the float configuration. The float utilizes a float body and at least two longitudinal keel members oppositely disposed on the float body. In a first orientation, the first keel is submerged and the second keel is in the air and the float tacks in the first keel direction. A sharp pull on a tether line connected to the float causes the float body to roll 180 degrees such that second keel is submerged and the first keel is in the air and the float tacks in the second keel direction.

Abstract: A fishing line compartment having one or more spools containing fishing line parts is provided. The fishing line compartment can be part of a larger container assembly or fishing tackle pack. Each spool can be held in the fishing line compartment using a strap having portions inserted through the bore of the spool. The strap is joined to the fishing line compartment using an attached end. When the attaching end of the strap is also joined to the flap, the strap is in its closed state. When in the closed state, the spool can be rotated and desired tension in the fishing line being unwound can be provided using the strap portions within the spool bore. In one embodiment, a cover overlies at least portions of the spool for use in maintaining a position of the spool in the fishing line compartment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for arranging a bunch of flowers, in particular a twisted bunch of flowers. The device comprises a top and a bottom grating, each having grating openings through which the stems of flowers/twigs can be inserted. The top grating is made up of two multiplicities of bars, each parallel to one another, at least one of the multiplicity of bars being able to be moved back and forth in the longitudinal direction thereof in order to be able to break the grating structure for removal of the bunch of flowers formed. The top and bottom gratings can be turned relative to one another about a vertical axis of rotation to twist the stems of a bunch of flowers placed therein.

Abstract: A mixture of a carrier, a binder and additives is used for germinating units containing seeds or the like growth-suited parts of a plant, and the units are available either separately or coherently in form of seed or plant tapes. The carrier comprises one or more substances selected from the group consisting of vermiculite, perlite, zeolite, cellulose materials, burned clay, rock wool or the like substances. The binder comprises polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol or other plant-compatible binders, such as water or water-containing polysaccharides or mixtures thereof. The additives comprise plant protecting agents, plant nutrients, surfactants, water-absorbing substances, water-carrying substances and other additives with favourable effects on germination and plant growth.

Abstract: A seed for enhancing the extended delivery of nitrogen needed for plant development and growth, the seed having a slow release nitrogen coating of a particulate UF polymer adhered to the seed with an adhesive binder.

Abstract: The vertical sliding pet door can be used to let pets in and out easily by themselves. The pet needs to be trained in the usage of the pet door, and it also protects the house from unwanted bugs and other creatures such as rodents, as it closes as soon as the pet gets out through pet door. A locking mechanism is also provided, which helps to keep the house secure, when the sliding pet door is not being used.

Abstract: The present invention provides an automatic door control system that includes a door, a control module assembly, and a drive train assembly. The control module assembly is coupled to the door. The drive train assembly is coupled to the control module assembly, where the drive train assembly is configured to receive a signal from the control module assembly to easily move the door, where the drive train assembly exerts a force to move the door.

Abstract: A closure assembly for a motor vehicle includes a closure member, a guide track and a carrier operably secured to the guide track for movement along the guide track and carrying the closure member therewith. A rack has a plurality of teeth and extends along the guide track. A pinion gear is carried by the carrier and has teeth engaging the rack. A motor is operably connected to the pinion gear to selectively move the closure member from one position to another. The carrier includes at least one engagement member biased into engagement with the guide track to prevent binding of the carrier with the guide track and to maintain contact between the pinion gear and the rack.

Abstract: A closure clip for a pre-hung door comprising a barrel, a barrel extension and a generally rigid fastening tab connected to the barrel opposite the barrel extension, the fastening tab having a reveal spacer tab and a jamb secure tab, whereby in operably fastening the closure clip to the pre-hung door assembly the barrel is inserted within the lockset bore while the barrel extension is inserted within the transverse jamb bore, the fastening tab extends from the door knob bore and across a portion of a face of the door and across a portion of the strike jamb, the reveal spacer tab is inserted in the door reveal and the jamb secure tab overlays a surface of the strike jamb opposite the door reveal and overlaying the transverse jamb bore.

Abstract: A method and system for controlling the descent of a moveable element pivotally attached to a rigid structure. The moveable element is pivotally attached to the rigid structure, and is then pivotally connected to a compressible strut, which is attached to a linkage pivotally connected to the rigid structure. The descent of the moveable element is pivotally controlled using a microcontroller and a motor attached to the linkage, and the control path for the linkage is selected based on a comparison of the angle between the linkage and the rigid structure and the angle between the moveable element and the rigid structure.

Abstract: A decorative snow guard assembly attachable to raised portions of a building surface such as a standing seam roof. The assembly includes a decorative snow brake plate integral with a base, means spanning between adjacent bases, and means connecting said spanning means to said bases.

Abstract: A hinge for an enclosure is disclosed. The hinge includes a hinge rod and a bushing. The hinge rod is secured to one of a door and a door jamb of the enclosure. The bushing is secured to the other of the door and the door jamb of the enclosure. Moreover, the hinge rod slidably engages the bushing to allow the door to pivot about the door jamb.

Abstract: Sealed frameless multiple glazing units comprising at least three panes of glass wherein the air spaces within the unit are hermetically sealed one from the other are believed to be new. The units preferably comprise a fixing assembly wherein the boss is formed from two interlocking parts. The two part boss facilitates the assembly of the units and serves to support the weight of the unit.

Abstract: A bracket for supporting a structural element, such as a precast concrete beam, on a concrete pile or similar support structure in a building includes a first support part (1) which is cast at least partly into the concrete pile. The first support part (1) includes a bracket part (5) for supporting the structural element so that the structural element bears against the concrete pile. The bracket part (5) is movably fastened to the first support part (1), which is cast at least partly into the concrete pile, such that the position of the bracket part (5) with regard to the concrete pile can be changed.

Abstract: The present invention is a device and method for simultaneously spacing and bracing adjacent framing components. The disclosed device is an elongate U-shaped spacing member having a pivot tongue extending from one end of the spacing member and a free tongue extending from the other end. The pivot tongue incorporates a pivot plate with a pivotable connection means, and a hinge. The free tongue incorporates an attachment means. Optionally, both or either tongue may incorporate a locking tab.

Abstract: A connection part between a panel and a support includes a body provided with an elongated segment that extends through an orifice made in the support. It incorporates an over-injected part made of a soft and compressible material on the body. The over-injected part has an absorption ring that envelopes a segment of the body and is in contact with a neck of retainer joined to the panel, thereby absorbing the lateral compressions resulting from positional misalignments due to manufacturing errors and expansions of the support and the panel.

Abstract: A system and method of manufacture providing reinforced structurally functional load-bearing members, including but not limited to using thermoplastic materials, such as High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), reinforced such as with an aluminum alloy or carbon fiber core element. Among its possible uses, the present invention has application for provision of structural support members, such as an illustrative I-joist product having a vertical center member preferably comprising HDPE, and top and bottom flanges having structurally meaningful reinforcement. The center member and flanges preferably comprising HDPE provides a relatively hard, durable, substantially weather-resistant structure.

Abstract: A concrete slab lifter is disclosed, wherein the concrete slab lifter comprises a central support, a bottom plate attached to the bottom of the central support, a pair of wheels attached near the bottom of the central support, a jaw pivotally attached to the central support, and a handle attached to the top of the central support. The jaw is configured to slide along the central support and comprises a first member attached to the central support and configured to lock in a position flush against the central support, a second member attached perpendicularly to the first member, and a tooth comprising a sharpened plate attached perpendicularly to the second member.

Abstract: Apparatus for placing external corner protectors upon the external corner regions of palletized loads, prior to the wrapping of the palletized loads within wrapping material, comprises four corner protector pickup, transfer, and applicator mechanisms respectively disposed adjacent to the four corner regions of the palletized load, wherein the corner protector pickup, transfer, and applicator mechanisms are movable independently of the external corner protector magazine assemblies. The external corner protector pickup, transfer, and applicator mechanisms are rotatably mounted upon rotatable actuators which are rotatably movable through angular movements comprising 270°, and, in turn, the rotary actuators are mounted upon linearly movable mechanisms which are movable in both X and Y directions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for packaging contact lenses. The apparatus includes a compliant head, improved heater and improved heat seal die.

Abstract: A foam-in-bag assembly with a film feed mechanism which feeds film with a film driver and a bag forming assembly which includes an edge sealer that contacts film being fed by the film driver and which is supported on a moving member of the film feed mechanism and retains a fixed position relative to the moving member while in sealing engagement with the film being fed by the film driver. The edge seal assembly is preferably for use with a nip roller set and has a bearing through which a driving shaft of the nip roller extends and an edge wire is received on an edge wire support of the edge sealer. The support for the edge wire retains a fixed edge seal position while the driving member rotates within the sleeve.

Abstract: A device for producing tubular bags filled with bulk goods from continuous foil tubes. The device includes a pair of sealing tools that seal or weld the foil tubes in bag-length intervals. A pair of closing bars connected to the sealing tools are biased toward each other and press the foil tubes before the sealing tools are closed. A stripper is provided to remove the residue of the bulk goods from the area of the seal by a wiping motion in the direction of bag movement through the device. The closing bars are connected to the stripper so that through a closing movement of the closing bars, the stripper is pulled along in the run direction of the foil while touching the foil to strip the area to be sealed before the sealing tools close.

Abstract: A vertical stand-up pouch, or flexible package having a zipper seal mechanism incorporated therein, and method for manufacturing same, constructed with a quick change module modification to existing vertical form and fill packaging machines. The invention involves producing a vertical stand-up pouch from a single sheet of packaging film by inserting a zipper seal mechanism on a first side of the packaging film tube and creating a vertical crease along the tube prior to forming a transverse seal on the tube. The zipper seal mechanism is attached to the packaging film prior to sealing the sheet of the packaging film along its longitudinal seam forming a tube comprising, in part, a quick change module that easily installs on the base of a forming tube. Likewise, the crease is formed using fixed or stationary modifications to prior art vertical form, fill, and seal machines comprising, in part, a quick change module that easily installs on the base of a forming tube.

Abstract: A device for filling a container with a plurality of objects standing substantially upright on a floor portion of the container includes: a depositing cavity temporarily created and maintained in the container for receiving one of the plurality of objects; a first moveable planar restraining member having a first anterior surface facing the depositing cavity and a first posterior surface, the first posterior surface restraining a previously deposited object against movement; and a second moveable planar restraining member having a second anterior surface facing the depositing cavity and a second posterior surface. The first and second restraining members are operationally arranged to be removably insertable into and between the opposing side walls of the container.