Abstract: A belt tensioning unit has a reversible clamping device which is controlled by a sensor system which is capable of recognizing potentially dangerous or accident-prone driving situations. In the event of danger, the belt is tensioned with sufficient force in order to draw the occupant into a desired sitting position prior to a possible collision or to retain the occupant in this position.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a book, comprising a first page, a last page, and a plurality of pages therebetween; a front channel between the first page and the plurality of pages; and a back channel between the last page and the plurality of pages; methods of producing the same; and methods of producing stacks of paper to be used in the book. Also disclosed herein is a stacker, comprising a baseboard; a plurality of page-positioning means; and an adjustable bar.

Abstract: A drawing pad for use by children having a drawing surface, a middle foam layer, and a non-slip surface. Users can write on the drawing surface with a material such as chalk and easily erase the writing. The foam layer is a soft material that is also semi-rigid to keep the drawing pad from wrinkling. The non-slip surface keeps the drawing pad from slipping and is also non-porous and easily cleaned. The drawing pad is suitably large and can be easily rolled up and transported.

Abstract: A bookmark that includes a light which can be carried by a book to light a page presented for viewing for reading. A portion of the bookmark is manipulable relative to another portion of the bookmark between a bookmark position and a light operating position with one of the portions receivable between a pair of pages of the book underlying the page presented for viewing that is lit by the light. One portion preferably includes a segment and the other portion preferably includes a segment with a joint that preferably includes a hinge disposed therebetween. A position actuated switch cooperates with at least one of the segments to turn on the light when the bookmark is manipulated into the light operating position. Such a bookmark can be configured to provide additional functions such as a magnifier, a picture frame, a clock and/or a calculator.

Abstract: A document handling apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus comprises an input module for receiving documents and feeding them one by one into the apparatus, a note handling module for transporting the documents to a safe, a note reader module for detecting characteristics of the documents, and a safe for storing the documents. The safe comprises a number of roll storage modules connect by transport means. The module in which each document is stored is determined based upon the detected characteristics of the document. Documents can be retrieved from the storage modules upon operator input and dispensed through an output module.

Abstract: A method for providing a hidden image within a substrate the method comprising interaction of a laser irridation on a substrate. The interaction with the substrate according to one embodiment creates recesses on the substrate, the recesses form an at least one hidden image, whereby the at least one hidden image can be viewed with the use of at least one decoder. The decoder can be embossed in a similar manner.

Abstract: A security thread for embedding in or on a sheet such as a document, currency or packaging is disclosed, wherein the thread has a thin film interference structure deposited thereon. The article has plural Fabry-Perot filters and light transmissive windows between the filters, so that another optical structure, such as a reflective layer or color shifting foil, is visible though the windows and provides a visual reference to the image formed by the Fabry-Perot filters. Preferably, the thread is first roll coated with oil using an oil-ablation technique to remove deposited material in situ in the coating process. A magnetic layer may be deposited within, behind or in front of the thin film interference structure.

Abstract: A concealing adhesive sheet and a concealing adhesive sheet having a release sheet, in which it is easy to write or print on information, the recycle property of paper such as a postcard can be ensured, and the temporary adhesiveness between a concealing sheet and transparent layer is stable, and a double sided adhesive sheet and a double sided adhesive sheet having the release sheet, in which it is easy to write or print on information, the recycle property of paper such as a postcard can be ensured, and the temporary adhesiveness between transparent layers is stable, are provided.

Abstract: A record carrier (1) comprising a data area (3) with a pattern of substantially parallel tracks (2) for storing data. The record carrier (1) comprises at least first and second areas, the tracks in the first areas (4) comprising a first periodic deflection and the tracks in the second areas (5) comprising a second periodic deflection. A visual contrast between the respective areas is realized by a difference between the first and the second periodic deflection. The visual contrast represents a visual watermark.

Abstract: Devices for determining the string tension of racket strings are provided. In some embodiments, devices for determining the string tension of racket strings comprise: a body having a front surface indicating different combinations of player and racket characteristics, windows corresponding to certain types of rackets, and an axis perpendicular to the front surface; and a rotary disc which is rotateably situated on the axis behind the front surface and which has numbers indicated thereon representing racket string tension values that can be viewed through the windows for the different combinations of player and racket characteristics.

Abstract: A hollow pipe connector is described for interconnecting opposed ends of two hollow pipes in abutting end-to-end relationship. Preferably, but not exclusively, the pipes are hollow pile cylinders of circular cross-section. The connector is formed by two flat metal plates each having interconnecting slots whereby the plates are coupled together to form a connector of X-cross-section. Each of the plates have outer side edges having opposed sloped edge portions on a respective side of an arresting raised projection formed in the outer edge in a mid-section thereof. The sloped edge portions slope inwardly towards a respective one of the opposed ends of the connector member. The connector engages opposed end portions of pipes coupled together by a frictional retaining force exerted on the inner walls at opposed ends of the coupled pipes.

Abstract: The coupling includes a mandrel and a coupling outer sleeve. In a method for installing the coupling on a pipe, the mandrel is inserted into the inner diameter of an end of pipe with an outboard end of the mandrel protruding from an end of the pipe. Then the outer sleeve is positioned over the pipe to form a length of substantially concentrically arranged, overlapping parts of the mandrel, the pipe and the sleeve. Then the sleeve is crimped over at least a portion of length, which engages the pipe between the sleeve and the mandrel. Either before or after sleeve is crimped over the pipe, the sleeve is connected to the outboard end of the mandrel.

Abstract: A universal joint having a screw cap, a rotating portion and a screw tube. The screw cap has a first stop portion located at one of openings, and a first seal pad is provided in an inner part of the screw cap. The rotating portion is comprised of a rotating head connecting to a pipe, the rotating head has a hole on a upper half-circle ball portion of the rotating head, and the half-circle ball portion is utilized to support the first stop portion of the screw cap. A second stop portion with external threading pattern is provided in the screw tube, wherein a second seal pad is provided on the second stop portion, the screw cap is sealed with the second stop portion. The hole of the rotating head is securely closed off and sealed off.

Abstract: A conductive pipe and a pipe connector assembly include a connection member, a coupling member and a hard conductive pipe which has at least one expanded portion at one end. The connection member is a tubular element and has at least one connecting portion which has a chamfered angle at one end to be tightly coupled with the expanded portion. The coupling member also is a tubular element and has at least a coupling portion to be coupled with the connecting portion and a chamfered surface in the tubular interior. When the connection member and the coupling member are coupled together, the expanded portion is tightly coupled with the chamfered angle. The pipe connector may be used on a liquid cooling apparatus and/or a liquid conveying pipe thereof to connect any two conductive pipes or connect the conductive pipe with a liquid cooling apparatus.

Abstract: The coupling piece 1 is formed as a two-component injection molded part of two housing parts. A first housing part 32 is comprised of a hard thermoplastic synthetic material and a second housing part 34 is comprised of a soft elastomer synthetic material. This second housing part 34 is directed toward an entry opening 5 on coupling piece 1, through which an end of a corrugated tubing is slid into the coupling piece 1. The second housing part 34 includes on the inside sealing elements 38, which seal the corrugated tubing. On the first housing part 32 are located resilient shell segments 20 with retaining elements 22, these retaining elements 22 engaging into the shell of the corrugated tubing end.

Abstract: Improved self-tightening clamp assemblies are provided, which are designed for application to the adjacent ends of connected pipe sections in spanning relationship to the joint therebetween. The assemblies include a plurality of clamp bodies configured for placement about the adjacent pipe section ends and carrying a plurality of pipe-engaging teeth; a clamping mechanism is operably coupled with the clamp bodies to cause the teeth to grippingly engage the pipe section ends. The teeth are oriented so as to exert an increasing gripping force on the pipe sections ends in the event of relative separation movement between the ends.

Abstract: An implantation cartridge for a pipe connection designed to be fitted in a housing includes a body and a quick coupling, the inlet of the housing has an annular rim designed to form, with the pipe in the connection end position and when the cartridge is in an intermediate insertion position in its housing, a stop for limiting the axial travel of the push button so as to make the connection of the pipe to the cartridge irreversible.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for starting a gas turbine engine using a brushless sensorless machine, the machine having a rotor and a stator with windings, the method including positioning the rotor at a desired position with respect to the stator and then energizing the windings of the stator.

Abstract: A wind generator has a post, a rail mounted on the post and a blade assembly mounted rotatably on a top of the post. The blade assembly includes multiple blades radially formed around a base. Each blade has multiple vents, a slat and multiple relief valves. The slat is controllable mounted to open or close the vents, so as to adjust a force of wind applied to the blades. The relief valves are mounted pivotally to selectively cover valve holes formed through the blades to prevent the wind resistance force applied to the blades. Therefore, the wind generator can work in both turbulent and with a low wind force without breaking.

Abstract: A multiple generator having a vertical post and multiple vertical tubes has the generators positioned vertically one above the other. Each is cylindrical in shape and has two rings separated by connecting fins. The cylinders vary in size with the top being the smallest, the middle or second being larger and the third being the largest. With low winds, only the smallest generator turns. As wind velocity increases, the small generator rotates faster until clutches in a clutch ring move outwardly until they engage and secure to the second generator so both generators move together. As wind speed increases, clutches on the second generator move outwardly until they engage and secure to the third generator and all generators now rotate together. Thus varying amounts of electricity are generated depending on the wind speed and which generators are active. Each generator has its own rotating shaft with ball bearings between the post and first tube and between the first and second tubes.

Abstract: A wind turbine, having: a rotatable frame; a plurality of airfoils mounted to the rotatable frame, the wherein the airfoils extend parallel to an axis of rotation of the rotatable frame, and wherein the airfoils are individually pivotable with respect to the rotatable frame; and a mechanism that holds each of the airfoils in a high lift/high drag position when the airfoil moves in a direction of air flow. The wind turbine may optionally include a rotational stop to prevent rotation of the air foil from a high drag position to a low drag position when the airfoil is moving in the direction of the wind flow.

Abstract: A wind turbine including a stator assembly having a plurality of stator blades for tangentially redirecting wind into a rotor assembly having a plurality of vertical rotor blades disposed circumferentially on a plurality of disks stacked one on top of each other. Each disk defines at least one opening thereon for redirecting the wind axially through each of the disks.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wind turbine including a foundation and a tower positioned on the foundation where the tower includes more than one modules, where the modules each include a separate strengthening structure defining the outer edges of the module and wind turbine equipment, and where the more than one module are positioned substantially vertically on top of each other in an upright position within the tower. The modules are connected directly and/or indirectly through the strengthening structure, to the foundation (18). The invention further relates to a method for assembling a wind turbine at a wind turbine site and a method for handling more than one wind turbine modules.

Abstract: A power distribution system for retrofitting to a household or other building. The power distribution system includes a means for supplying energy to the power distribution system for an indeterminate period of time. The power distribution system further comprises a means for converting the energy supplied to the power distribution system into motion. A generator is operatively connected to the energy converting means and converts the motion produced by the energy converting means into an electric current. The electric current produced by the generator is used to power a high-load circuit. An alternator is also operatively connected to the energy converting means. The alternator is configured to convert the motion produced by the energy converting means into another electric current. The alternator transmits this electric current to a bank of batteries which stores the charge.

Abstract: A power distribution system for retrofitting to a household or other building. The power distribution system includes a means for supplying energy to the power distribution system for an indeterminate period of time. The power distribution system further comprises a means for converting the energy supplied to the power distribution system into motion. A generator is operatively connected to the energy converting means and converts the motion produced by the energy converting means into an electric current. The electric current produced by the generator is used to power a high-load circuit. An alternator is also operatively connected to the energy converting means. The alternator is configured to convert the motion produced by the energy converting means into another electric current. The alternator transmits this electric current to a bank of batteries which stores the charge.

Abstract: A device provides utilities, including both mechanical and electrical sources of power, and various power tools, from a self-contained and independently operable compact unit configured for transportation to, and use in, various field applications. An internal combustion engine (ICE) mechanically drives an electric generator, an air compressor and a water pump. In turn, the electrical generator provides electrical power to an arc welder, a plasma torch cutter, an electric pressure washer, a light plant for providing illumination in the vicinity of the unit, and to outlets from which various external electrically powered devices may be powered. The air compressor may, in turn, supply compressed air to the plasma torch cutter and to both regulated and unregulated outlets for powering various external connected devices. Additionally, a hydraulic pump may be attached to and powered directly by the ICE.

Abstract: An oven door lock rotates the latch arm so the latch arm is not exposed outside the oven frame when the lock is in the unlocked position.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for a communication device (100) is provided by an access cover (102) having a simple user interface with rugged features that prevent the access door from detaching if the device is dropped. The access cover (102) includes a latch (106) movable vertically in up and down positions (112, 114) in combination with a slideable lock (110) movable horizontally in side to side positions, one of the side positions preventing up and down movement of the latch. A single lock icon (120) is disposed across the latch (106) and slideable lock (110) such that an unlocked position (118) is indicated when the latch moves up and down (112, 114), and a locked position (116) is indicated when the slideable lock (110) is slid to the side position that prevents up and down movement of the latch.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention is a latch device having a latch and a base portion, where the latch is selectively connected to the base portion, and pivotable about the base portion along a first axis. The present invention also includes a cam mechanism for securing the latch such that the latch is secured for rotation and support of a door for a vehicle along a second axis when the door is rotated about a first axis but allows free movement of the latch when the door is actuated for rotation about a second axis.

Abstract: A bag assembly for an excrement collecting apparatus. The bag assembly comprises a bag and a collar, the collar being engaged with an open end portion of the bag such that the end portion is wrapped around the collar. A rib is provided at the end portion, the collar being shaped to define a seat for the rib, the bag and collar being assembled such that the rib is seated in the seat to releasably secure the bag to the collar. The arrangement provides a secure coupling between the bag and the collar and reduces the risk that the bag will tear when pulled.

Abstract: A spreader assembly for a crane includes a pair of spreaders which are connected by a linking frame and suspended under a trolley. The configuration of the linking frame can be configured using hydraulic cylinders to move the spreaders relatively, so that the spreaders may be used at the same time to carry containers. The linking frame can also be connected to a docking station mounted on the trolley, and either one of the spreaders released from the linking frame for independent use.

Abstract: A grappling system includes a frame and a plurality of grapples supported by the frame. The grappling system may be suspended from a crane-and-submerged into a body of water to grip and manipulate an underwater object such as a portion of a decommissioned oil platform.

Abstract: A grappling hook blank for forming a grappling hook having a shaft, a plurality of arms and a connecting member. The grappling hook blank includes a piece of material having a shaft portion, a plurality of arm portions, and a connecting member portion. The shaft portion forms the shaft of the grappling hook. The plurality of arm portions forms each of the plurality of arms of the grappling hook. Each of the plurality of arms of the grappling hook is formed by moving each of the plurality of arm portions outwardly from the grappling hook blank. The connecting member portion connects the shaft portion and the plurality of arm portions wherein the connecting member portion forms a connecting member of the grappling hook such that the connecting member of the grappling hook connects the shaft and the plurality of arms of the grappling hook.

Abstract: Improvements in integral carriers for carrying multiple containers by their necks are disclosed, the improvements comprising inwardly biased annular neck-engaging structures and a centrally disposed longitudinal handle with an attachment configuration that promotes a balanced distribution of weight for ease in carrying and handling.

Abstract: This device provides a simple,adaptable, reusible means of gripping a variety of bags, that is, bags of variable materials,variable contents, variable sizes, and variable weights; and may be used by two persons for lifting a single bag It is comprised of two handles with a rope threaded through the two handles to form a closed loop. It works by positioning the loop around a bag lieing flat with the handles at the bag end, pulling the rope under the corners of the bag, and lifting the handles. The lifting force positions the rope under the bag,thereby providing the lifter a substantial and convienient method of gripping the bag.

Abstract: A durable carrying device for transporting multiple items. The carrying device has a plurality of holding members that are capable of securely holding several heavy items, such as plastic bags filled with consumer goods, for easy carrying by a user of the device. The holding members specifically are arranged such as to hold the items closely to one another to minimize swinging of the items as they are being carried. Further, the carrying device includes a comfortable handle that allows the user to carry items with reduced discomfort to the hand. The durable construction of each of its elements and of its overall structure allows the carrying device to withstand the rigors associated with item carrying. The seamless design of the carrying device and the smooth finish of its surface make it easy to clean.

Abstract: A console assembly for use in a passenger seating area of a vehicle includes a base securable to a floor of the passenger seating area and a support structure mounted to the vehicle floor cooperating with the base. One or more storage modules are disposed adjacent to the base and include or define a storage area to provide additional storage in the passenger seating area. One or more trays are pivotally connected to base adjacent the one or more storage modules and are movable between a first position extending generally parallel to the vehicle floor and at least one second position extending generally perpendicular to the floor.

Abstract: A road vehicle 10A with a bonnet or engine compartment 14A and engine 32A is provided with pedestrian protection structure 42. This is formed by first assessing the structure of the vehicle 10A to determine the ability of the structure to provide at least partial absorption of a pre-defined impact to the vehicle (such as a simulated head or leg impact). The additional structure 42 is mounted on the vehicle 10A to provide partial absorption of the initial impact, at least sufficient for the vehicle structure to absorb any remaining energy of impact.

Abstract: A motor vehicle having a module box that is securable against theft. For this purpose, a manually actuatable lock is provided. The lock can be contained either in the module box or in the motor vehicle. Elements in the module box or the mounting arrangement that ensure that the opening mechanism of the module box and also the box's removal from the mounting arrangement are blocked are moved with the aid of a cylinder core of the lock.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for a quickly-detachable and replaceable windshield for a recreational vehicle such as a motorcycle. The system may include a fairing that is configured to include a windshield mounting receptacle and rapid attachment hardware that does not require the use of any tools to actuate the hardware. Also included is a windshield configured to engage the rapid attachment hardware upon insertion of the windshield into the windshield mounting receptacle. In use, the windshield is inserted into the windshield mounting receptacle until it engages the rapid attachment hardware, and may be removed and rapidly replaced without the use of any tools by actuating the rapid attachment hardware to release the windshield.

Abstract: It is an object of the present invention to prevent deterioration of the appearance of a front pillar when a side door is open, thanks to surely covering the gap with a hollow-shape portion even if a gap between a molding and the front pillar is changed hollow-shape portion. A front pillar (17) is provided between a side portion of a windshield glass (13) and a front portion of a side door (14), and a molding (27) is fitted into an outer periphery portion of the windshield glass (13). Also, the inner surface of the side portion of the windshield glass (13) is bonded to the front pillar (17), and a hollow-shape portion (28d) to be brought into contact with the front pillar (17) is provided at the molding (27). Moreover, the hollow-shape portion (28d) is constructed to be brought into contact with the front pillar (17) so as to cover the gap between the molding (27) and the front pillar (17).

Abstract: A device for concealing the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plate/label. The label is typically disposed on the dashboard of the automobile, especially in a narrow space between the dashboard and the windshield of the automobile such that the label can be seen from the outside of the automobile through the front windshield. The device comprises a panel comprising a distal portion. The panel is to be placed over the label as the distal portion is securely wedged between the dashboard and windshield of the automobile.

Abstract: A shelter attachment for a pickup truck includes a lid that is rotatably attached to one side of the pickup truck bed. As the lid is rotated in an opened direction, two wire ropes pull a shelter mast in an upward direction so that the mast is in its fully upright position when the lid is in its fully opened position adjacent to the exterior of the truck bed sidewall. An additional two wire ropes connecting the mast to the opposite truck bed sidewall provide support for the mast and the lid. When in its opened position, the interior surface of the lid forms a sleeping bed for a user. The mast and the wire ropes provide the structure for supporting the canvas or nylon sheeting material for the walls of the shelter.

Abstract: Disclosed is a soft top for a motor vehicle, comprising longitudinal struts that span a roof opening and a flexible roof skin which spans the width of the vehicle and is fastened to a windshield frame in the front and a bow spanning the width of the vehicle in the rear in the mounted state. One respective longitudinal strut that delimits the roof skin in the transversal direction of the vehicle is embodied as a lateral rail which can be connected at least to one lateral vehicle element. In order to put the soft top down, it can be folded in the transversal direction of the vehicle, the roof skin and the longitudinal struts being joined so as to form a pre-assembled unit.

Abstract: A closure system for controlling speed of a closure member, where the closure system includes a controller for transitioning speed of a closure member being operated in response to an obstacle being sensed in the path of the closure member. In one embodiment, a linear speed control algorithm determines the speed transitioning. In response to sensing contact with an obstacle, the controller may use a conventional contact process to stop or reverse the closure member. The closure system provides for a higher closing velocity of the closure member than conventional closure systems.

Abstract: An adjusting system of a motor vehicle for the adjustment of a closing part is disclosed. The system includes a first and second casing extending oblong in a length-wise direction. The second casing has a smaller cross section than the first casing and is arranged within the first casing to be adjustable in a length-wise direction. A spindle for the relative adjustment of a first casing to the second casing is included and arranged within either or both of the first and second casings. The system also includes an electromotor and a transmission connected with either or both of the spindle and second casing. In addition, at least one spring is arranged within either or both of the first and second casings and operates length-wise, such that one of the casings is attached on the side of the motor vehicle body and another of the casings is attached to the closing side.

Abstract: An adjusting system of a motor vehicle for the adjustment of a closing part is disclosed. The closing part may be a rear flap, a trunk deck, a sliding or swinging door. The closing part may be adjustable between an opened position and a closed position along a setting range. A body opening of a motor vehicle body is closed in the closed position by a closing part. The adjusting system uses at least two springs to effect the closing. The two springs may be selectively operated over a range of operation settings.

Abstract: A sliding door for a motor vehicle which may be moved along a direction of displacement for opening and closing a door opening in the motor vehicle body is provided. The sliding door comprising a sliding door drive for producing a drive torque, a force transmitting mechanism and at least one further device for actuating an adjusting part of the sliding door. At least parts of the sliding door drive and parts of the further device for actuating an adjusting part have been pre-assembled on a module support outside the sliding door and the module support is arranged and secured as a pre-constructed module to the sliding door, together with the parts pre-assembled thereon outside the sliding door.

Abstract: A tent is disclosed for use in connection with a utility trailer having a flat rectangular platform. The tent comprises a frame and a covering for the frame. The frame comprises frame members adapted for detachable connection to the platform.

Abstract: A deck cross-member comprising a first pipe, a joint member, and a second pipe. The first pipe is configured to support a steering unit. The first pipe has a cross section that is uniform along the axial direction as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction. The joint member is inserted in the first pipe and secured to the first pipe. The joint member incorporates a receptacle unit. The second pipe is inserted in the receptacle unit of the joint member, thus secured to the joint member. The second pipe has a cross section that is uniform along the axial direction as viewed in a plane perpendicular to the axial direction.