Abstract: A dock leveler includes a vehicle-engaging lip extending beyond the front end of a pivotal deck, wherein the lip has one or more unique features that reduce the level of vibration generated when the lip contacts a trailer bed as material handling equipment traverses the lip. By damping the vibration generated when the lip interacts with the trailer bed, the special features also reduce the level of noise emitted. The special features of the lip may include a cushion attached to an undersurface of the lip such that the cushion is adapted to be compressed between the lip and the trailer bed as material handling equipment traverses the lip.

Abstract: An expandable and contractable ramp assembly is provided for moving handicapped persons between a first elevation and a structure such as a transport vehicle or a stationary structure at a second elevation. The ramp assembly comprises an attachment assembly adapted to removably secure a first end of the ramp assembly to the vehicle or structure, the ramp assembly being expandable and contractable in a linear direction. The attachment assembly provides pivotal movement of the ramp assembly in an arcuate direction for storage of the ramp assembly when not in use. The ramp assembly comprises a pair of parallel disposed scissors assemblies, the scissors assemblies moveable between expanded and contracted positions. A light weight tread support assembly extends between and is operatively connected to the pair of parallel scissors assemblies, the tread support assembly including a plurality of tread plates connected to a tread plate support structure that supports the tread plates.

Abstract: A dock leveler includes a vehicle-engaging pivotal lip extending from the front end of a pivotal deck, wherein the lip has one or more unique features that provide a smooth transition for forklifts traveling between the lip and a trailer bed upon which the lip is resting. The smooth transition minimizes jolting and vibration of the forklift and its driver as the forklift wheels pass over the leading edge of the lip. The special features of the lip may include one or more of the following: a curved traffic-bearing surface terminating at a sharp or blunt leading edge, a traffic-bearing surface that includes both flat and curved sections, a multifaceted traffic-bearing surface that approximates a curved surface, a rubber or plastic shock absorbing element, an articulated nose piece at the lip's leading edge, and a main lip plate that is coplanar with the deck's traffic surface (i.e., zero crown angle).

Abstract: A method of rebuilding a viaduct without interrupting service on the old structure by over topping it with a new, higher viaduct well above existing traffic, includes the following: Erecting new span supporting columns arrayed along either side of the old viaduct. New columns are temporarily connected to old viaduct to strengthen it for a temporary scaffold role transporting heavy subassemblies into position atop the new columns. The subassemblies or their components would typically arrive at a staging area alongside the old viaduct for preparation and hoisting the subassemblies onto a high dolly atop the old viaduct. The subassemblies are assembled into spans on the high dolly atop the old viaduct roadbed surface to transport and position the spans sequentially onto respective columns beginning with columns at extreme ends of the old viaduct and successively hoisting and transporting more subassemblies until a new higher viaduct roadbed is assembled well over the still functioning old viaduct.

Abstract: Apparatus for the method, including cartridges for housing strips of cleaning pad material, are provided. A method for cleaning probe tips, e.g., on a probe card, comprises abrading the probe tips on an abrasive surface, and advancing the abrasive surface so that a later cleaning cycle uses a clean portion of the cleaning pad. The method may include use of a vacuum to aspirate material dislodged by the abrading. In another aspect, a method for cleaning probe tips includes brushing the probe tips and operating a vacuum to aspirate material from the probe tips and/or brush. The methods may be used singly or in combination.

Abstract: A system for removing foreign materials, such as snow and/or ice, from the upper surface of a vehicle can include rigid or fabric covers which are moved to dislodge the foreign materials before the vehicle is driven on a road.

Abstract: A scraping element for a pipeline pig, includes a moulded body having a circular peripheral scraping edge circumscribing the body and adapted to engage an interior surface of a pipeline. The body is adapted to be mounted to a pipeline pig. A wear resistance material embedded in the scraping edge of the body.

Abstract: A limited use apparatus for treating contact lenses is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a case having a body and a left and right cover which are joinable to form chambers for receiving the lenses. Each of the chambers has an operative face for receiving the lens. A reactive layer is provided on a portion of each operative face. The operative faces and the reactive layers are dimensioned and arranged whereby the reactive layers come into engagement with respective optical surfaces of a lens positioned there-between when the cover and body are joined together.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning bleeder valves is disclosed. The apparatus includes a rigid casing and a flexible casing rotatably connected to the rigid casing. The flexible casing is adapted to provide fluid-tight coupling of the flexible casing to a bleeder valve. Within the flexible casing, a flexible shaft is rotatably mounted and extended from one end of the flexible casing to a position outwardly of an opposite end of the flexible casing. Connected to the flexible shaft is a drill adapted for engagement to effect rotation and reciprocation thereof. Also connected to the rigid casing is a valve adapted for selective venting of an interior of the rigid casing.

Abstract: The described aspects relate to products heretofore unknown by the art, and tongue cleaning equipment for preventing and treating halitosis, comprising a gel/cream that in one aspect comprises Hydrogen peroxide, Citric acid, flavorizer, demineralized water, Cetylpyridinium chloride, colorant, Sodium saccharine, Sorbitol and Poloxamer, or a spray that in one aspect comprises Hydrogen peroxide, Citric acid, flavorizer, demineralized water, Cetylpyridinium chloride, colorant, Sodium saccharine, Sorbitol, Polisorbate 20 (Tween 20), Sodium benzoate, and Methyl paraben, in adequate proportions, and the equipment comprises a device to detach tongue coating, comprised of a toothbrush or scraper provided with a brush employed to brush the tongue, along with a portion of the gel/cream or spray, applied over the bristles of the brush or scraper, and a device to remove the detached tongue coating.

Abstract: An oral hygiene implement includes a cleaning element carrier and a body. The body has a proximal end and a distal end. The cleaning element carrier has a first area and a second area wherein the second area is disposed inboard of the first area. The first area is attached to the body while the second area is unattached to the body. A bending element is disposed between the first area and the second area, thereby allowing the second area to bend/flex while the first area stays fixed to the body.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an applicator for applying a composition to eyelashes and/or eyebrows. The applicator may include a brush comprising bristles and a core having a rectilinear portion from which the bristles extend, the bristles having free ends that define an envelope surface. The envelope surface may extend along a longitudinal axis that is not parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rectilinear portion of the core, and may have at least one cross-section having a shape that is flattened along a mid-plane, the envelope surface defining at least one face that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the core.

Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning the ferrule end surface of an optical fiber that has been installed in a connector, such as a connector coupler or bulkhead receptacle, comprises a cleaning head (22a, 22b, 22c). The cleaning head is made from thermally sintered polymers, e.g., thermally sintered particles and/or thermally sintered strands and provides a matrix of open-celled multi-directional pores. The cleaning head has zones (26, 28, 32) of increasing polymer densities from compression zone (26) to sidewall cleaning zone (28) to base zone (32). The cleaning head serves to lift, absorb, trap and remove contamination from the ferrule end faces (14a, 14b, 14c) and the end face of the optical fiber therein. The open-celled structure of the cleaning head (22a, 22b, 22c) allows the contact surface to compress both laterally and radially where it contacts the ferrule end, thus permitting effective cleaning for all ferrule end designs. The cleaning head may be used either dry or with a cleaning solvent.

Abstract: The process for manufacturing a multi-element sponge consists of mixing together a polymer and a reagent to form a mixture to be expanded to produce a spongy mass, casting the mixture in a mould, depositing an insert onto said mixture and allowing the mixture to expand while maintaining the insert pressed against it, so that on termination of expansion the insert is directly connected to the spongy mass.

Abstract: A system for enabling the collection of dust and particle samples from a surface or sampling environment using an air suction device such as a vacuum cleaner. The system includes a nozzle incorporating a filter trap for collecting the particles as well as a reversible adapter enabling the connection of any one of a plurality of vacuum hoses having different diameters to the nozzle.

Abstract: A windscreen wiper arm, particularly for automobiles, comprising a mounting head on a drive shaft and an arm member pivotally connected to the mounting head by means of a pivot pin, wherein the arm member has a substantially U-shaped cross-section near said pivot pin comprising two side walls, wherein a part of the mounting head extends between the side walls and beyond said pivot pin, and wherein a spring is hooked with its first end on a pin on the mounting head, with the special feature that said spring is hooked with its second end on the arm member.

Abstract: A vacuum appliance having a housing with an attached intake port. A plurality of attachment nodes are axially located about the intake port. An accessory with a plurality of axially located grooves selectively engage the plurality of attachment nodes to establish a locking relationship with the intake port.

Abstract: A robot cleaner includes a vacuum air path including an inlet, a particulate collection dustbin, a fan, and an air exit.

Abstract: A central vacuum cleaning system control subsystem for use in a central vacuum cleaning system having a motor includes a central vacuum unit control module with a receiver for wirelessly receiving command signals, and a power stage for controlling the motor in accordance with command signals received through the receiver. The control module is stable in high ambient temperature. Current flowing to the motor is sensed, and motor overcurrent and undercurrent conditions are determined. The control module determines when the motor is in an overcurrent condition. Power stage has a triac for controlling power to the motor. The control module also has a microprocessor that compares the current sensed against a normal operating current to determine overcurrent condition. Power to motor ceases when overcurrent condition exists. A generator is powered by air flow in a cleaning system for production of electrical energy.

Abstract: A system for applying a vacuum to a floor structure, a platform assembly for allowing a user to extract fluids from a floor structure, a system for extracting invasive liquids from a floor structure, a drive system for allowing a user standing on a platform assembly to displace the platform assembly along a floor surface, and/or A method of applying a vacuum to a floor structure.

Abstract: A canister vacuum cleaner includes a housing carrying a suction generator and a dirt collection vessel. The housing is supported on a caster wheel assembly including a wheel riding on a cushion of air.

Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner (A) includes a housing (B) having a suction airstream inlet and a suction airstream outlet. A dirt container (50, 500) is selectively mounted to the housing for receiving and retaining dirt and dust separated from the suction airstream. ?The suction airstream inlet and the suction airstream outlet are in fluid communication with, respectively, an inlet and an outlet of the dirt container. The dirt container includes a first cyclonic air-flow chamber (66, 508) and a second cyclonic airflow chamber (68, 510), each cyclonic airflow chamber including a longitudinal axis. The second cyclonic airflow chamber is spaced from the first chamber, wherein the first and second chambers are each approximately vertically oriented and are arranged in a parallel relationship. An air manifold (52, 540, 540?) is disposed at a top portion of the dirt container. The air manifold includes an inlet section (54, 536, 565) through which dirty air passes and an outlet section (138, 560, 560?).

Abstract: A portable air blower includes a blower fan, a drive unit for driving the blower fan, a casing for covering at least the blower fan and having a side wall with an air intake opening defined therein, and a covering unit for covering the air intake opening. The covering includes an air intake grille fitted to the casing and operable to permit an air to pass therethrough into the air intake opening, but to block foreign matters off therefrom, and a protective shroud held in overlapping relation with the air intake grille for covering the air intake grille on one side of the air intake grille opposite to the air intake opening. The air intake grille has an outermost area having a circumferential edge, which is positioned substantially radially inwardly of an outer peripheral edge of the protective shroud.

Abstract: A cart stop suitable for use with a lift platform is described. The cart stop has a closed position which allows a cart or other wheeled device to move over it. The cart stop also has an open position which prevents the cart or other wheeled device from rolling off of the lift platform.

Abstract: A check link assembly is operatively connectable to a door to provide resistance to the rotation of the door. The amount of resistance varies with the position of the door to provide at least one detent position. The check link assembly stores energy when the door is latched in its closed position, and is configured to release the energy when the door is unlatched so that the door moves toward its open position.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing table accessories comprising the steps of obtaining from a sheet-like element made of plastics portions whose dimensions are consistent with a table accessory being provided, removing material at outer edges and in at at least one region of an internal surface to provide a profile of the table accessory and at least one internal pattern, and providing a surface finishing.

Abstract: A hinge structure having leaf portions with adjustable clamping force arm includes a leaf structure and a pintle. The leaf structure includes a C-shaped barrel portion, and a first and a second leaf portion connected to and extended from two opposite axial edges of the barrel portion. Free ends of the first and second leaf portions are bound together by at least one leaf locating element. With the leaf locating element functioning as a fulcrum, a clamping force arm section is defined on each leaf portion between the fulcrum and the barrel portion. The pintle is rotatably received in the barrel portion with a predetermined rolling friction existed between them. The predetermined rolling friction is adjustable through mounting at least one adjusting element to the two clamping force arm sections.

Abstract: A hold-down support structure is coupled to a stem of a pintle to form a hinge, and includes a support board and a sleeve. The support board has a support section forming a support face. The sleeve includes first and second brackets. When the sleeve is mounted to the support board, a stem receiving space is defined by by the support board and the first and second brackets. The stem is inserted into the stem receiving space and an outer circumferential surface of the stem is subject to constraint by the support face of the support board and the resilient retention forces respectively applied by the first and second brackets symmetrically in directions toward the support face so that a predetermined rotational friction is induced between the outer circumferential surface of the stem and the inside surfaces of the first and second brackets.

Abstract: An apparatus may include a hinge, a positioning device, and a first component coupleable to the positioning device. The apparatus may further include a second component coupleable to the hinge, and a hinge shaft coupleable to and rotatable about the hinge, wherein manipulation of the positioning device is adapted to selectively move the first component toward the second component in a first direction to increase a level of rotational torque required to rotate the hinge shaft.

Abstract: A split barrel structure of a hinge includes a first partial barrel and an adjoining first complementary curved part extended from a first leaf portion in a first circular direction, and a second partial barrel and an adjoining second complementary curved part extended from a second leaf portion in a second circular direction. When the first leaf portion is aligned with the second leaf portion face to face, the first partial barrel and the first complementary curved part mate with the second complementary curved part and the second partial barrel, respectively, to form a split barrel for clamping a shaft of a pintle of the hinge therein. The aligned first and second leaf portions are then bound together using binding elements. Alternatively, the first and the second leaf portion are integrally connected at an edge via a bending section.

Abstract: A hinge with adapted rotation friction includes a bracket, at least one cylinder, a pintle, and a pin. The bracket includes a plate-like structure extending along a horizontal datum plane and having a first edge and an opposite second edge. The first edge forms the cylinder of the bracket. The pintle includes a stem and an end plate. The stem has a free end, a mounting end mounted to the end plate, and at least one slit extending from the free end toward the mounting end. When the stem is inserted into the cylinder with the free end thereof, the pin is inserted into the slit of the stem to have the stem radially expanded to an increased outside diameter and thus making an outside circumference of the stem inducing a predetermined rotation friction with an inside surface of the cylinder of the bracket.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for affixing, rigging or attaching objects, articles or vessels using a fabric case, two double O-ring sets and a cord with two adjustable loops each with a bead stopper or chock. The fabric case serves as a semi-rigid cladding sleeve within which the attached cord extends, making two loops, one each at the opposite ends, each with a threaded bead or chock. Using the bead, the cord loop is passed about and object and returned under two adjacent O-rings, then back over one and under the other of the same O-ring pair to secure the cord loop by means of pressure against the fabric case. In this manner, the semi-rigid fabric cladding sleeve serves as the support base for the pressure or tensioning of the double O-rings and works to fasten or rig the attached objects, articles, or vessels.

Abstract: A tow clip (10) for quickly and easily connecting a towable vehicle to a tow rope, the tow clip having a base portion (12), a head portion (14), and a T-shaped slot (16) extending through the head portion (14) and into a portion of the base portion (12). The T-shaped slot (16) is configured to receive a loop of a strap connected to a towable vehicle and is further configured to allow a loop of rope to pass through it. The head portion (14) is configured so that a tow rope can be attached to the tow clip (10) by passing a loop of the rope through the T-shaped slot and separating the loop and bringing the loop over and around the head portion. When tension is applied to the distal end of the rope, the head portion (14) engages the rope thereby preventing the loop from passing back over and around the head portion (14) and through the T-shaped slot (16).

Abstract: An energy absorption device for a safety line, includes two sections (1, 2) capable of being set in relative motion with friction so that it absorbs energy. This energy absorption device is designed so that one of the sections has at least two parallel cable portions (6a, 6b), each capable of being displaced between a pair of jaws (4a, 4b) formed on the other section. A tensioner for a safety line incorporating such a device is disclosed. Application to the installations for working under difficult conditions with the installation of safety lines.

Abstract: A rope, cable or other linear tension member is retained along its length by a device 10 having a body 12 with a plunger 18 that is movably located in an internal cavity 14 of the body. The body provides a first surface 16 to engage the tension member and the plunger provides a second surface 24 that is disposed in substantially parallel relationship to the first surface. A biasing means 26 is used to urge the plunger upwardly in the internal cavity, so that the first and second surfaces are urged towards registration. Opposing ends 28, 30 of the body may be shaped in a manner to provide a cleat upon which the tension member may be wound or tied off. Mounting means 32, 34 in the body permit the body to be fixed to a surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a clamping device including a collar having at least one pair of projecting lugs and tightening means co-operating with said lugs. Each lug of a pair is equipped with reinforcement means suitable for opposing deformation of said lugs under the action of the tightening means. Each lug has a connection portion via which it is connected to a belt portion of the collar, which connection portion is upstanding relative to said belt portion, and a tightening wall, with which the tightening means come into engagement and which is folded back towards the belt portion. A space is formed between the connection portion and the tightening wall.

Abstract: A magnetic coupling device for releasably attaching a foldable protective panel (made of a durable fabric) to the interior walls of a conventional storage locker (of the type commonly used in schools, gymnasia, clubs and work places) comprises the combination of a magnetic member adapted to magnetically engage the locker wall, a mechanism (e.g., a button) adapted to engage the panel, and various mechanisms for interconnecting the magnetic member and such panel-engaging mechanism.

Abstract: A zip tie is disclosed that has a substantial longitudinal rigidity enabling pushing through fabrics. Associated with this tie is a catch with integral, tapered and rigid barbs. The tie strip has teeth that are tapered and essentially rigid, unlike other tie strips with mere bumps or rounded strips acting as teeth to engage flexing engaging catches. This zip anchor is intended for one time use. Though the catch may be forced off the tie for removal the catch barbs are deformed and unable to be used to anchor thereafter. This zip tie combination is most useful in attaching, anchoring members to fabric of web gear or clothing.

Abstract: An elastic engaging element engages a second component with a first component. The engaging element includes an elastic coil having a first end and a second end having an exterior diameter at least larger than a second diameter of a through hole of the second component, an extension wire extending from the first end of the elastic coil, passing through the whole elastic coil, and to the second end of the elastic coil, and a hooking portion integrated with the extension wire and located in a region outside of the elastic coil, the hooking portion having a contour size at least larger than a first diameter of a through hole of the first component and being capable of elastically deformed and passing through the through holes of the first and second components and then hooking up to a top surface of the first component.

Abstract: The present invention broadly comprises a hook including a hook body having first and second ends, the first end includes a bent portion having inner and outer surfaces and a nose, and the second end includes an opening, a release lever having a first locking means and spaced apart parallel side walls, the first locking means arranged proximate to the inner surface of the hook body and a gate having spaced apart parallel side walls, the side walls including a second locking means and, the gate arranged to engage the nose, the second locking means arranged to complimentarily engage the first locking means, wherein pivoting of the release lever about a first rotational axis disengages the first and second locking means and permits pivoting of the gate about a second rotational axis.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a purse ring for coupling a purse seine and a purse line to each other. The purse ring of the present invention includes a frame, which is coupled at a first end thereof to the purse seine and passes the purse line through a second end thereof, and at least three rollers, which are rotatably provided in the frame at positions at which the purse line are brought into contact with the frame. The purse seine having the multiple rollers according to the present invention has a structure such that friction between the purse line and the purse ring is reduced, thus increasing the lifetime thereof, thereby reducing costs of replacement thereof.

Abstract: A system for separating ICs, including a controller, a fixture and a support material supply. The fixture is coupled to a stretchable substrate and the stretchable substrate has a diced semiconductor wafer secured thereto. The diced semiconductor wafer including the plurality of ICs. The fixture being capable of stretching the stretchable substrate so as to form a corresponding plurality of spaces between each of the plurality of ICs.

Abstract: A semiconductor device manufacturing method capable of preventing an infliction of damage upon an interlayer insulating film and moisture adsorption thereto due to opening to atmosphere in a process of forming a CuSiN barrier by infiltrating Si into a surface of a copper-containing metal film and nitrifying a Si-infiltrated portion is disclosed. When a semiconductor device is manufactured through the processes of preparing a semiconductor substrate having a copper-containing metal film exposed on a surface thereof; purifying a surface of the copper-containing metal film by using radicals or by using a thermo-chemical method; infiltrating Si into the surface of the copper-containing metal film; and nitrifying a Si-infiltrated portion of the copper-containing metal film by radicals, the purification process, the Si introduction process and the nitrification process are successively performed without breaking a vacuum.

Abstract: A hemming processing apparatus (10a, 10b) is provided with a hemming roller (30), a roller moving apparatus (74), a movable mold (18), and a mold moving apparatus (72). The roller moving apparatus (74) moves the hemming roller (30) on a flange (17) of a work (12). The movable mold (18) supports the work (12). The mold moving apparatus (72) adjusts a direction of the movable mold (18) in accordance with a movement of the hemming roller (30).

Abstract: A pulling head having jaws that have a conical angle of at least forty-five degrees, and preferably sixty degrees, relative to a longitudinal axis about which the jaws are arranged. Another pulling head includes an elastic collet that has a plurality of fingers. Each of the fingers includes an internal jaw area, and a back end of the elastic collet preferably contacts a bushing. Preferably, the bushing provides high and reliable push force and also acts as a shock absorber during operation. The fingers of the elastic collet are configured to open and close during tool operation, and are configured to grip a break stem of a fastener such that there is no side loading. The elastic collet is also configured such that the fingers stay accurately centered and positioned, eliminating any possibility of jaw damage caused by the jaws tumbling, being off-center, or being otherwise positioned incorrectly.

Abstract: A semi-automatic loader for needle boards (2) includes a filling device (51) that presents felting needles (17) arranged at a ratio that is consistent with the ratio of holes of a needle board. A machine operator can then grasp the felting needles (17) by means of a multiple collet chuck (45) and set them in groups in the rows of holes of the needle board (2). This provides a loading method featuring extremely high productivity.

Abstract: A textile display including a frame including a first vertical support and a second vertical support, at least one base support extending from an end of each of the first and second vertical supports and at least one side panel removably attached to the frame.

Abstract: Tubular, especially can-shaped, receptacle for the accommodation of fluids, especially drinks, with a tubular body and a base and top section attached to this, wherein the top section is constructed in the shape of a shoulder and is suitable for attaching a closure device, especially a resealable one. The shoulder-shaped top section is at least partially enclosed, especially in the shape of a shoulder, by an upper edge of the tubular body and sealed with this.

Abstract: A micro-machined ultrasonic transducer substrate for immersion operation is formed by a particular arrangement of a plurality of micro-machined membranes that are supported on a silicon substrate. The membranes, together with the substrate, form surface microcavities that are vacuum sealed to provide electrostatic cells. The cells can operate at high frequency and can cover a broader bandwidth in comparison with conventional piezoelectric bulk transducers.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing an integrated circuit device having antenna conductors is provided. The method includes the steps of providing a wafer with a plurality of integrated circuit components; forming a first antenna conductor on the surface of each integrated circuit component; forming a plurality of metal bumps above the first antenna conductor; coating an insulating layer to encapsulate the plurality of integrated circuit components and to cover the plurality of metal bumps; removing a portion of the insulating layer to expose a top portion of each metal bump; and forming a second antenna conductor on the insulating layer by screen printing.