Abstract: The present invention includes a foam dart gun having a cylindrically shaped, typically hollow barrel with a plurality of hooks disposed at a first end of the barrel. Inner and outer elastic bands engaged with one another to form an elastomeric band assembly, which is typically engaged to the barrel at least proximate the end of the barrel opposite a trigger.

Abstract: An automotive vehicle mounted device usable by pursuing law enforcement personnel to mark the location of evidence/contraband thrown or dropped from a fleeing vehicle through the actuation of a compressed gas cartridge to force a paintball cartridge out through a discharge barrel to the ground at the point of discard.

Abstract: An air cannon or aerator has a first source of a pressurized gas, such as a tank, a discharge tube assembly, a valve assembly configured to regulate the flow of pressurized gas from the tank to the discharge tube assembly, and a receiving member or basket having a first end configured to receive and seat the valve assembly and a second end configured to releasably and securely mate with the discharge tube assembly. The discharge tube assembly, valve assembly, and basket are all concentrically aligned along a central, longitudinal axis extending substantially coaxial with the longitudinal center line of the tank.

Abstract: A bolt assembly for a pneumatic paintball gun preferably includes a bolt front, a firing valve, and a bolt back. The bolt back preferably includes a valve chamber and a pneumatic passage connecting the valve chamber to an input/output port. The bolt front is preferably connected to a forward end of the bolt back in communication with the valve chamber. The firing valve is preferably arranged in the valve chamber. A plurality of bolt ports can be arranged in the bolt back in fluid communication with the valve chamber to transfer compressed gas to and from a compressed gas storage chamber. In a forward position, compressed gas can be supplied to a rearward portion of the valve chamber from the input/output port through the pneumatic passage. The firing valve can be biased forward by the pneumatic pressure and be seated within a valve seat formed in a rearward end of the valve front. The pneumatic pressure preferably further deforms an edge of the firing valve and fills the compressed gas storage chamber.

Abstract: A bolt assembly for a paintball gun preferably includes a valve stem having an output port that can supply compressed gas to a compressed gas storage chamber. A bolt is preferably slidably mounted on the valve stem to move between a forward and a rearward position. The bolt can include one or more bolt ports configured to communicate compressed gas from the compressed gas storage chamber to a forward end of the bolt for launching a paintball when the bolt is in the forward position. When the bolt is in a rearward position, the bolt ports preferably communicate compressed gas from the outlet port of the valve stem into the compressed gas storage chamber. A sealing member can be arranged on the valve stem in communication with the bolt to prevent compressed gas in the compressed gas storage chamber from entering a forward bolt chamber when the bolt is in the rearward position and to permit compressed gas to enter the forward bolt chamber through the bolt ports when the bolt is in the forward position.

Abstract: An improved concrete cutter has a longitudinally-extending primary boom and one or more saw carriage sub-assemblies that move along the length of the boom. “Wing-like” boom extensions are hingedly secured at each end of the primary boom. The boom extensions can be easily positioned at each end of the primary boom to extend the cutting width of the concrete cutter and without requiring removal of the boom extensions from the concrete cutter. The saw carriage sub-assemblies are independently movable along the boom extensions. Carriage spacing is variably-adjustable along the boom such that each saw carriage can move toward or away from the other saw carriage. Each saw carriage sub-assembly is height-variable and is self-adjusting to contours in the profile of the concrete surface being cut.

Abstract: The invention is a portable barbecue charcoal briquette chimney starter and utensil and dish holder. It is designed to assist anyone wanting to ignite charcoal briquettes in a chimney starter in a place that is more convenient and safer than the methods now being employed. This invention, this device also allows the user a convenient place for the storage and use of barbecue utensils and dishes while barbecuing. This invention, this device is designed specifically for use with a popular kettle style barbecue.

Abstract: Systems and method for controlling the flow of air through a mechanical draft system are disclosed herein. A pressure controller for controlling air pressure comprises an appliance controller configured to control the operation of a plurality of appliances, an intake fan controller configured to control the speed of an intake fan, and an exhaust fan controller configured to control the speed of an exhaust fan. The pressure controller also includes a processor configured to receive a differential pressure signal and to control the operation of the appliances, the speed of the intake fan, and the speed of the exhaust fan in response to the differential pressure signal.

Abstract: A hinge device of a steam oven door comprises a mount provided with a slide slot thereon, which is installed on an inner lateral wall of an oven case. A roller wheel is slidably mounted in the slide slot. One side of the mount is pivotally installed with a rotary beam provided with a spring; the free end of the spring is fixed on the lateral wall of the oven case. The opposite side of the mount is provided with a push beam with one end pivotally connected to the roller wheel and the rotary beam. The rotary beam is pivotally connected to a link beam with second end pivotally connected to a curved element, whose one end is in turn pivotally connected to the mount. The other end of the curved element is pivotally connected to a transmission beam.

Abstract: A cleaning system for a cooking range exhaust having a hood, a backsplash, and a flue for exhausting cooking effluent is disclosed. The cleaning system includes a fluid delivery system constructed for placement within the cooking range exhaust. The fluid delivery system includes a hood spray conduit constructed for placement within the hood and comprising spray openings for directing a degreasing composition to the backsplash. The fluid delivery system includes a flue spray conduit constructed for placement within the flue and comprising spray openings for directing the degreasing composition to an interior surface of the flue. The cleaning system includes a pump system constructed for conveying the degreasing composition from a degreasing composition source and through the fluid delivery system. The cleaning system includes a collection reservoir constructed to collect degreasing composition runoff from the cooking range exhaust.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vapor heating type cooking apparatus cooking food materials using high pressure vapor as a heat source.

Abstract: A solar sensor that utilizes a blocking element and curved reflective element between the sun and a photo-sensitive electronic device to provide high signal levels and the ability to shape the angular response of the overall sensor. A particular angular response can be achieved by combining the attenuating affects of the blocking element with the increased response affects of the curved reflector. These two elements may be combined into one physical structure, or may be separate. Further, the present invention contemplates the use of multiple blocking elements and multiple reflectors.

Abstract: The invention relates to a solar absorber comprising an absorber body (10) provided with an absorption layer (17) on the side thereof on which the radiation concentrated by a concentrator is incident, and an absorption layer (18) on the opposite side. The absorption layer on the side facing the concentrator has a higher boundary wavelength than the opposing absorption layer. In this way, in the region of higher irradiance, the limit of the radiation emission of the absorber body is shifted to longer wavelengths such that both sides of the absorber body are operated with the respectively highest possible directivity.

Abstract: The invention provides methods and apparatus for nebulizing liquids. In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus is provided which comprises a thin shell member having a front surface, a rear surface, and a plurality of apertures extending therebetween. The apertures are tapered to narrow from the rear surface to the front surface. A liquid supplier is further provided which delivers a predetermined unit volume of liquid to the rear surface. A vibrator vibrates the thin shell member to eject liquid droplets from the front surface of the thin shell member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to pharmaceutical compositions comprising opioids and a liquid nasal carrier, to delivery devices comprising such compositions, and to methods of manufacture and use of such compositions.

Abstract: The present invention comprises a dry powder inhaler (DPI) that uses a patient's inhalation flow to concentrate energy in an aeroelastic element for deaggregation and dispersion of a powder dose. The result is a DPI that delivers a dose independent of inspiratory abilities of the patient, solving a major problem of conventional DPIs. Increased tension on the aeroelastic element causes higher frequency vibrations and improved powder dispersion. The tension of the aeroelastic element can be modified prior to dispensing the DPI to the patient, allowing for individualization for single patients or groups of patients. In addition, the DPI has features that increase the turbulence of the airflow as it passes through the device, further increasing the dispersion and deaggregation of the powder. The DPI can hold a single dose or multiple doses. The powder doses can be dispensed directly onto the aeroelastic element, or may be in adjacent blister packaging.

Abstract: A medical device, such as pressure support system, and a method of communicating with such a device using an information storage device. The information storage device, in one embodiment, is adapted to be provided in a slot in the medical device so that information for controlling the operating of the pressure support device can be read from the information storage device, information regarding the usage and/or operation of the pressure support device can be written to the information storage device, or both operations can be performed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a holding device for a respiratory mask. Said device is composed of a hub, removably fitted to the respiratory mask shells and comprising two lateral elements which allow a fin to be secured on each side of the hub, said fin comprising openings, for fastening the harness straps which are placed around the head and optionally a strap, for holding the patient's mouth closed. Said invention generally relates but is not limited to a non-invasive mechanical ventilation of airways by a gas generator, or any other medical or non-medical application, permitting the use of said device.

Abstract: Systems and methods resist posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula during sleep, thereby keeping an airway open. The systems and methods employ first, second, and third structures. The first structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a tongue. The second structure is sized and configured for placement in or on a region of a soft palate or uvula. The third structure is sized and configured for placement in or on tissue in a desired relationship. anterior of the first and second structures. The first and second structures each includes a ferromagnetic material. The third structure includes a magnetic material that magnetically interacts with both the first and second ferromagnetic materials by attracting both the first and second ferromagnetic materials, thereby resisting posterior movement of both the tongue and the soft palate/uvula.

Abstract: A magnetic force system uses a magnetic implant sized and configured to be inserted in the pharynx and another magnetic implant sized and configured to be inserted in the tongue, palate, or pharynx. The system establishes different regions of magnetic interaction between the two implants across the airway, attracting and repelling, such that attractive interaction in one region of the implants combines with repelling interaction in another region of the implants, to provide a “hinge” structure. Alternatively, a magnetic force system that uses three magnetic implants sized and configured to be inserted in the tongue, pharynx, and palate, respectively. The tongue implant is attracted to the palatal implant, and repels the pharyngeal implant, forming a modified “hinge” structure. Forces of magnetic attracting bring tissue together to form a magnetic hinge joint, providing an anchor to stabilize the regions where repelling forces work to separate tissue to keep the airway open.

Abstract: A pharyngeal airway adjuster, or mandible positioning device, has a maxillary dentition engagement component and a mandibular dentition engagement component, each on opposite sides of a plane extending therebetween. An adjustable connection couples the maxillary dentition engagement component with the mandibular dentition engagement component. The adjustable connection has a first adjustment screw having a longitudinal axis parallel to the plane and a second adjustment screw having a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the plane. The first and second adjustable screws are independently adjustable and structured to effect horizontal and vertical displacement, respectively, of the maxillary dentition engagement component relative to the mandibular dentition engagement component.

Abstract: A whiplash restrainer for use by riders in vehicles, generally in conjunction with safety belts. A helmet-like device is secured, with reasonable freedom of motion of the rider's head, to a shock absorber by a joint device. The shock absorber is removeably secured to the vehicle seat back.

Abstract: Methods for administering pressure changes to a user for the treatment and prevention of diseases and conditions are disclosed herein. Methods of administering Cyclic Variations in Altitude Conditioning Sessions (CVAC Session(s)) for the treatment of spinal cord injury, intervertebral disc therapy, inflammation, and wound healing are disclosed herein.

Abstract: The invention provides methods for characterizing a subject's overall smoking behavior and the subject's puff morphology in dependence on tidal volume information provided by ambulatory physiological monitoring. This invention also systems for executing the methods of this invention and computer-readable media having encoded the methods of this invention.

Abstract: An apparatus for inspecting ventilation of filter cigarettes FT has a plate-like packing 18a. The packing 18a covers the opening of a movable cylinder 10 and is relatively pressed with the end face of a filter cigarette FT. The packing 18a includes a hole 18c positioned to coincide with the center of the end face against the packing, an inner circular area 18f surrounding the hole 18c, and an outer circular area 18g surrounding the inner circular area 18f. The outer circular area 18g is elastically deformed more easily than the inner circular area 18f and is brought into tight contact with the outer circumferential edge of the end face pressed against the packing.

Abstract: A supply holding hair-treatment liquid has an elongated dispenser spout and is used with an applicator having a body fittable to the supply with the spout projecting a predetermined distance beyond the body. A plurality of hard support core pins are fixed on the body extend adjacent the spouts and respective soft cover sheaths fitted over the support pins form therewith teeth projecting from the body beyond an outer end of the spout when the body is fitted to the supply.

Abstract: A method for sealing moisture into hair, by cooling the hair. The method may be after a shower and/or during styling. The hair may be cooled by applying a gas or a plate cooled to below room temperature. The air may be cooled by reducing the pressure of a pressurized gas. The air may be cooled by heat transfer with a cooled fluid. The plate may be cooled by heat transfer with a cooled fluid. Also disclosed is an apparatus for moisturizing hair, which includes a cooling medium and a heat transfer unit for cooling the cooling medium to a temperature lower than room temperature.

Abstract: A portable electric curling iron comprises an upper movable iron body (20) and a lower movable iron body (40), which are connected to an upper stationary iron body (10) and a lower stationary iron body (30), respectively, such that the upper and lower movable iron bodies (20, 40) can be selectively retracted into an extended from the upper and lower stationary iron bodies (10, 30) through openings (11, 31) respectively. The upper and lower movable iron bodies (20, 40) are provided with guide grooves (22, 42), in which guide protrutions (12, 32) formed at the upper and lower stationary iron bodies (10, 30) are engaged, respectively, such that the guide protrutions (12, 32) can be guided along the corresponding guide grooves (22, 42). Heating members (50) are attached to the upper and lower movable iron bodies (20, 40), respectively, while being opposite to each other.

Abstract: A holding clamp 1 for a curler 2 to hold a strand of hair 3 rolled up on the curler 2, wherein the clamp 1 has an elastic spring hook 6, 7 at each of the two ends 4, 5, and both of the hooks, each having an edge 8, 9, can be snapped in at both ends 10, 11 of the curler 2. The holding clamp 1 has a pressure spring device 12 between both hooks 6, 7; the pressure spring device induces a spring force F to at least a portion of a jacket area 13 of the curler 2. At least one injection molded leaf spring 14 is provided as a pressure spring device 12. In doing so, the leaf spring 14 is distorted so that it can be placed at the contours of the jacket area 13 with a gentle amount of pressure thus preventing the distortion of the rolled up strand of hair 3 (FIG. 4).

Abstract: A make up case easy to discharge of powder including an upper body 10, lower body 20 and a cap 50 are coupled; a brush cover 41 is formed on the peripheral of a discharge guide 40; when, pushing the brush cover 41, the discharge guide 40 moves and press a cone type resilient member 34, the inside hole 31 which formed the inside middle portion, is opened by a closing jaw ring 27, then, the powder is discharge from through the discharge hole 42 of the discharge guide 40, then, from, the release of pressing of the brush cover 41. The support plate 33, of which coupled with the discharge guide 40, is elevate up by the expansion power of the cone type resilient member, the inside hole is clogged by the closing jaw ring 27. Thus, the powder can not discharge. The cone type resilient member is press and/or expansion, and can freely or semi-automatically control the discharge and intercept of the powder.

Abstract: A disposable toothbrush with a built-in toothpaste applicator mechanism, the toothbrush mainly comprising a multiplicity of bristles, a plurality of apertures located between the bristles, a hollow compartment for containing a quantity of toothpaste, a bore connecting the apertures and the hollow compartment, a flexible locking member, and a plunger with a head, a base and a stem. The head of the plunger is dimensioned to achieve a substantially gapless interface inside the hollow compartment for pushing the toothpaste into the bore and out from the apertures. The locking member is secured over the stem of plunger for preventing it from being accidentally pushed into the hollow compartment before using the toothbrush. In order to use the toothbrush, first the locking member is removed. Then the plunger is pushed into the hollow compartment to extract the toothpaste out from the plurality of apertures and on to the bristles.

Abstract: Provided is a self-cleaning catalytic chemical vapor deposition apparatus which suppresses the corrosion-induced degradation of a catalytic body by a cleaning gas without heating a catalytic body to not less than 2000° C. and permits practical cleaning rates and good cleaning at low cost. With conductors 5a, 5b which supply a constant current to a catalytic body 4 within a reaction chamber 2 from a heating power supply 6 and terminals 6a, 6b of the heating power supply 6 kept electrically insulated from the reaction chamber 2, a cleaning gas containing halogen elements is introduced into the reaction chamber 2 which has been evacuated, and the catalytic body 4 is heated by the energization from the heating power supply 6. An active species generated by this heating is caused to react with an adhering film which adheres to the interior of the reaction chamber 2, whereby the adhering film is removed.

Abstract: A cloth accessory and methods for the use thereof are disclosed and described. In one aspect, the cloth accessory may include a cover member forming an enclosure with a cavity therein, and a cloth attached to the cover member. The cloth may have a first configuration wherein the cloth is retracted substantially into the cover member, and a second configuration wherein the cloth is extended substantially out of the cover member without becoming detached therefrom.

Abstract: A cloth accessory and methods for the use thereof are disclosed and described. In one aspect, the cloth accessory may include a cover member forming an enclosure with a cavity therein, and a cloth attached to the cover member. The cloth may have a first configuration wherein the cloth is retracted substantially into the cover member, and a second configuration wherein the cloth is extended substantially out of the cover member without becoming detached therefrom.

Abstract: A cloth accessory and methods for the use thereof are disclosed and described. In one aspect, the cloth accessory may include a cover member forming an enclosure with a cavity therein, and a cloth attached to the cover member. The cloth may have a first configuration wherein the cloth is retracted substantially into the cover member, and a second configuration wherein the cloth is extended substantially out of the cover member without becoming detached therefrom.

Abstract: A device for washing and storing machinery is provided. This device includes a storage apparatus and a washing apparatus formed integrally with the storage apparatus. The storage apparatus further includes: a housing defining an internal chamber therein; a base attached to the bottom portion of the housing, wherein the base further includes at least one aperture formed therein; a debris tray attached to the base, wherein a portion of the tray is positionable beneath the aperture formed in the base; and a door for gaining access to the internal chamber, wherein the door further includes a floating upper portion and a lower portion connected to the base. The washing apparatus further includes: a plurality of directional sprayers, wherein the plurality of directional sprayers are located within the housing and the base; and plumbing for connecting the plurality of sprayers to one another and to a source of pressurized fluid.

Abstract: A method and an equipment for cleaning masks used for photolithography steps, including at least one step of thermal treatment under pumping at a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure and at a temperature greater than the ambient temperature.

Abstract: A method for cleaning a reactor and a method for manufacturing a chip thereof are provided. The reactor at least includes a reaction cavity and an inner tube. The inner tube is disposed inside the reaction cavity. The wall of the inner tube has a foreign particle. In the cleaning method, firstly, a continuous fluid is induced into and out of the reaction cavity. Next, the pressure of the continuous fluid is adjusted to be within a range from 100 torr to 300 torr for removing and taking the foreign particle out of the reaction cavity.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide apparatus and method for detecting and controlling edge bevel removal of a semiconductor substrate. One embodiment of the present invention provides an apparatus for inspecting a rotating substrate. The apparatus comprises a substrate support configured to support the rotating substrate on a back side and rotate the substrate about a central axis, and a sensor positioned above the substrate support, the sensor being configured to inspect a front side of the rotating substrate while moving simultaneously radially across the substrate.

Abstract: Methods are provided for descaling metallic components devices such as stents. The devices or components are cleaned under ultrasound in a cleaning solution of ammonium hydrogen fluoride at a temperature within a range of about 60° to 80° C., then rinsed at that temperature with an aqueous rinse containing a nonionic surfactant and rinsed again with purified water.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning an inside of a chamber using a gas separation type showerhead is provided. The apparatus includes: a gas supply module through which first and second gases are separately supplied; a gas separation module through which the first and second gases are separately dispersed; and a gas injection module that includes a plurality of holes through which the separately dispersed first and second gases are commonly injected into the chamber, wherein at least one gas of the first and second gases includes an ionized first cleaning gas including a gas containing fluorine (F) ingredient, and wherein at least one gas of the first and second gases includes a non-ionized second cleaning gas including nitrogen oxide based gas (NxOy, x and y are integers equal to or more than 1).

Abstract: An automotive glass washer arrangement includes a washer pump having an outlet in fluid connection with at least one automotive glass washer nozzle. The arrangement comprises a fluid coupling having a female element with a chamber therein. A replaceable filter is disposed in the chamber. The fluid coupling further has a male element connected to the female element wherein the female element is in fluid communication with the washer pump and the male element is in fluid communication with the at least one nozzle. In a preferred embodiment, the female element is connected to the washer pump with a first hose and the male element is connected to the washer nozzle with a second hose.

Abstract: A clamp 10 for holding two elongate members 23a, 23b so that they extend at a preset angle from each other, comprising: two clamp portions 12, 14 each having co-operating engaging surfaces 16a, 16b, each clamp portion having an axial bore 18a, 18b extending perpendicularly to the engaging surfaces and a receiving portion for holding one of the elongate members; a stem or rod 19, passing through the bore of the clamp portions and attached at one end to a lever or handle 20 for rotating the stem in the bore, and a cam acting between the stem and at least one of the clamp portions so that the clamp portions can be moved from a position in which the engaging surfaces are not engaged to a position in which the engaging surfaces co-operatively engage by rotating the lever by approximately 90°.

Abstract: An improved hunting umbrella is disclosed. The improved hunting umbrella of the present invention includes a main body. The main body includes a plurality of ribs, an upper retaining element, a lower retaining element, a piece of fabric and a central pole. A zipper is disposed on the piece of fabric. When the zipper is unzipped, a gap is formed on the piece of fabric. A bendable portion is provided on the central pole so that the central pole may be bent by a certain angle. The improved hunting umbrella of the present invention may be used as an ordinary umbrella as well as a hunting umbrella.

Abstract: A collapsible umbrella with a small closed volume includes a central shaft and an upper connector. The connector connects with inner ends of every first ribs. Every second rib has its inner end connect with outer end of the first rib and has a middle bent section. The inner end of the second rib can get away from the first rib and be closer to the shaft and the connector when the umbrella is closed that reduces volume of the closed umbrella. Hence, the small volume of the closed umbrella facilitates the carrying or storing for users when not using.

Abstract: The invention relates to a frame structure of an umbrella having two layers of cover, which includes a main rib and a branch rib, wherein the main rib is provided with a connector for connecting with the branch rib and an upward slot, an elastic rib having an inner loop to be received in the slot and penetrated by a lateral pin on the connector that the elastic rib is elastic contact with the main rib. The elastic rib and the main rib are provided for connecting with the upper cover and the bottom cover while the frame structure will be firm and strong to resist wind and prevent from being broken.

Abstract: The umbrella having a shaft, a plurality of ribs movably engaged to the shaft, an umbrella cloth having a periphery and an internal surface attached on the ribs, and in addition, a strengthening member in form of a loop operatively associated to the internal surface of the umbrella cloth at a position adjacent to the periphery of the umbrella cloth. The size of the loop is smaller than the periphery of the umbrella cloth such that the strengthening member pulls the umbrella cloth against the ribs when the umbrella is open. The strengthening member reinforces the ribs against the upward force from the wind, and resists the ribs from flexing upward.

Abstract: The vehicle-mounted awning is a quick setup framework that supports a weatherproof fabric canopy, and is configured for use to the rear of a vehicle. A multi-sectioned bumper bar attaches to the hitch receiver of a vehicle. Opposing ends of the bumper bar have vertical extension pieces, each extending vertically and having a slightly arcuate free end for support of an arcuate multi-sectioned upper side panel frame on either side of the bumper bar. Multi-sectioned lower side panel frames are pivotally connected to opposing ends of the bumper bar. Upper and lower side panel frames are removably connected at their distal ends to provide cantilevered support. Additional multi-sectioned framework extends rearward protective coverage. A flexible water-resistant fabric is wrapped over the support framework to provide a covered canopy region. The framework of the device comprises a plurality of collapsible elements for storage in a small bag.

Abstract: A wired camping tent providing electric power at a number of electrical receptacles installed therein is provided. The wiring harness delivering the electric power to the receptacles is held within sleeves that are affixed to the main tent covering or fabric. Electric power is provided by a rechargeable battery system, and control of the electric power distribution to the individual outlets is provided by a switch control box. The wired tent includes an accessory support structure at an overhead electrical receptacle installation point, as well as accessory shelves provided in proximity to the other electrical receptacles. An overhead electric fan and light combination accessory may be provided.

Abstract: A novel dye which has high conversion efficiency, excellent weatherability and heat resistance when it is used in a dye-sensitized solar cell and a dye-sensitized solar cell comprising this dye. This dye is represented by the following formula (1): ML1L2X1X2??(1) wherein M is an element of any one of the groups 8 to 10 of the long form of the periodic table, L1 and L2 are each independently a bidentate ligand composed of a specific bipyridine, and X1 and X2 are each independently a monovalent atomic group or unidentate ligand.