Abstract: The present invention relates to a size-adjusting fastening mechanism for stakes comprising fixed locking grooves and a movable locking convex block, whereby when one of the grooves engages with the convex block, tooth position is loosened and toecap is telescopic upon pulling. When the groove and the convex block are rotated to deflect so as not to engage with each other, tooth position is pressed to lock so as to be irremovable. Such a structure requires that the pull handle be pulled horizontally forwards and backwards. Being secured with rivet punching, the claimed device possesses good stability, is simple in structure, low in cost and easy for operation.

Abstract: A two piece fastener for securing at least one sole member to a metal cleat to provide better traction in footwear is disclosed. The fastener comprises a pin member and a sleeve member having an internal locking mechanism. In exemplary embodiments, the internal locking mechanism is defined by axial movement of the pin to engages a sleeve stop shoulder in a through bore located in the sleeve moving it radially inward into the internal locking section of the pin. After the internal locking section has been substantially filled, the pin and sleeve are locked together stopping movement of the pin. The fastener provides both water resistance and easy removability with the use of a tool.

Abstract: This is a two-piece device (known as a “bozzee”) that can be used on all laced footwear. It is an elongate body member configured to fit within the laces of laced footwear. It is comprised of a plastic platform that is tied into the laces and sits on top of the tongue of the footwear and an elastic sleeve retention member that slips over the platform and secures in place any appropriately sized object that one wishes to carry on his or her shoe. The platform has one hooked end that serves as a retainer region in the laces towards the toe of the footwear, a slightly upturned end that serves as a retainer region under the knot in the laces. The hooked end of the device easily slides under the lace so that the shoe does not have to be completely untied to get it off and on, and has a concave bottom that fits comfortably on top of the tongue. The device fits on most types of shoes and is easy to transfer between shoes.

Abstract: There is provided a shoe sole component that has properties such as strength and cushioning property that are suppressed from being changed even under a wide temperature range from severe cold at ?10° C. or lower to high temperature conditions exceeding 30° C. A shoe sole component includes a cross-linked foam of a resin composition, the resin composition containing a thermoplastic polyolefin resin, in which tan ? [?20° C. to 40° C.] at a frequency of 10 Hz measured according to JIS K 7244-4 is 0.01 to 0.5, and tan ? [?20° C.]/tan ? [40° C.] at a frequency of 10 Hz is 0.7 to 1.3.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an aeration system for shoes comprising an aeration device, specifically pumping means like a bellows pump, which constitutes a further object of the invention. More specifically, the present invention concerns an aeration system for shoes, comprising a hollow sole (1) having an aeration device in fluid communication both with the inside of the shoe and with the outside, at least one first and a second cavity (2, 3) being formed inside said hollow sole (1), pumping means (9) being housed in said at least one first cavity (2), wherein said pumping means (9) comprise a shell (10) and a distribution nozzle (11), a flexible core (12) being housed inside said shell (10), and a pad (18) is housed in said second cavity (3).

Abstract: A diagonally twisted sole may include an undersole and a midsole bottom, the midsole bottom being connected to the undersole, and various hard inserts being able to be introduced into the undersole. Together with a twisted, flexible, rigid or elastic plate, the undersole can form a midsole, which may include several parts. The twisted plate may be a flat plate or a plate of different thicknesses.

Abstract: A method for providing an antislip tread and an antislip tread provided with the method. The tread has a plurality of antislip inserts made of fabric or nonwoven fabric which emerge from the surfaces intended for contact with the ground. The inserts made of fabric or nonwoven fabric may also form a substantially continuous surface with the surface made of rubber or plastic material.

Abstract: An integrated mechanical transmission system of an excavator (91), equipped with a diesel engine (140), and comprising an undercarriage (110) carrying a mounted rotary table (104) carrying a tower (95), comprises: an electric generator (142) coupled with the diesel engine (140); a first linear electric motor (100) for commanding the rotation of the rotary table (104); at least a second high torque reversible electric motor (121) with innovative technology for commanding the translation of the vehicle; at least one voltage and current intensity regulating group (144) connected to the electric generator (142); a rotary distributor with contacts (147) provided on the rotary table (104) and electrically connected to the first linear motor (100) and to the second high torque reversible motor (121) with innovative technology; a battery group (145) connected to the regulation group (144).

Abstract: The present invention relates to improvements to ripper boots of the type adapted to be mounted to a bulldozer tyne for use in cleaving through hard ground. The ripper boot embodied in the present invention has particular application in opal mining where sometimes extremely hard ground is to be penetrated and ripped. The ripper boot includes a replaceable ripping tooth which is secured within the boot by way of an interference fit so that during use, it does not rotate. The interference fit prevents particular matter from entering between the walls of the tooth and the associated socket. In further forms of the invention, the replaceable ripping tooth is angled upwardly with respect to the carrier so that the angle of attack of the ripping tooth is raised so that it is almost parallel with the ground. The ripper boot provides a number of benefits including improved cleaving effect, reduced chatter and drag, reduced wear and tear, and reduced load on associated machinery.

Abstract: A steam ironing device (1) comprises a steam generator (20) for heating water to steam, a steam outlet (25) for letting out a burst of steam (27) from the steam generator (20), a device (30) for supplying water to the steam generator (20), a hose (40) connecting the water supplying device (30) to the steam generator (20), and a controller (50) which is adapted to operating the water supplying device (30) during a period of time in a situation in which there is hardly any need or no need at all of a supply of steam in an ironing process, while keeping the steam outlet (25) closed. In this way, a reserve amount of steam is generated, which is stored in an internal space (21) of the steam generator (20), and, as the occasion arises, inside at least a portion of the hose (40). When a burst of steam (27) is required, the reserve amount of steam is released through the steam outlet (25).

Abstract: A tensioning device (11) is arranged on an embroidery hoop (1), which allows the tensioning of the outer frame (3) with a turning knob (33). For protection from damage, a ratchet (37) is inserted in the turning knob (33) and for simple opening after the end of the embroidery process, a free wheel (45) is inserted.

Abstract: A portable ironing board assembly which allows the ironing board to be mounted with magnets on a household appliance for convenient use and storage. The assembly has a portable mounting frame, an ironing board pivotally mounted on the frame for raising to a substantially horizontal position for use and for lowering to a substantially vertical position for storage, an ironing board support to help maintain the ironing board's horizontal position, and magnets affixed to the portable mounting frame for attaching the frame to a mounting surface.

Abstract: A commemorative coin assembly includes a coin, a decorative component, and a holder that couples the component to the coin. The decorative component may be extended substantially perpendicularly from the coin's surface in a first position or alternatively inset into an outlined negative space on the coin's surface in a second position. The commemorative coin assembly depicts a central theme through the incorporation of engravings, etchings, letterings, motifs, numerals, or artistic depictions used on the decorative component or on the faces of the coin itself.

Abstract: Promotional material display devices are provided. The display devices have a unique configuration that improves visual display and organization of promotional material including flyers and business cards. The display devices uniquely integrate a direction indicator with the display device providing an attractive dimension to and purpose for the flyer and business card holder in real estate applications.

Abstract: Pop-up Business Card by this invention is characterized by—information printing part which contains the information of the card such as the company name, personal name, and contact number, —main folding line generated by the line-drawing process on one side of the card so that part of the card can be folded, —cutting-line pattern which contains cutting-lines formed from the main folding-line to the other side of the card, —the 1st folding-line pattern generated by line-drawing process on one side of the card so as to be juxtaposed with the cutting-line pattern, —the 2nd folding-line pattern generated by line-drawing process on the other side of the card paper so as to be juxtaposed with the above cutting-line pattern, *—the generation of the solid figures on the card when it is folded according to the above main folding-line, cutting-line pattern, the 1st folding-line pattern, and 2nd folding-line pattern, —solid figures reversibly popped up when the card is opened from the folded state along the main folding

Abstract: A vehicle plate retention frame and removably affixed cover plate. The retention frame may have at least one first part of a two-part separable fastener disposed thereon. The cover plate has at least one second part of the two-part separable fastener associated therewith so that the cover plate may be removably affixed to the retention frame.

Abstract: A display panel for attachment to a license plate holder having a plurality of mounting holes. The holes are dimensioned and located to align with one or more of the mounting holes of a standard U.S. license plate. The panel is installed by aligning at least one of its mounting holes with the holes in the license plate and then mounting the license plate with the display panel partially behind it on a license plate holder. The panel has an exposed portion that laterally flanks the license plate. A method for mounting the display panel and a kit employing the display panel are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sign system comprises one or more box-like modules having a front section and a corresponding rear section sized to fit together in sliding engagement to define an interior cavity. The sections may be joined together with fasteners which engage the side panels of each section thereby leaving the front and rear surfaces free of discontinuities. The sign modules may be affixed to a generally planar surface or supported on internal or external mounting posts. During installation, the rear section may be mounted first and the front section subsequently attached to the rear section. In this way only approximately one-half of the total weight of the sign need be lifted and manipulated at any one time thereby facilitating installation. The interior cavity defined by the front and rear sections may accommodate lighting means for internally lighting the sign.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a billboard that rotates between display positions and has several sides including each rotating elements which display a different image at each display position.

Abstract: A weather protection system for a sign having a planar surface, the system comprising a frame coupled to the sign, the frame having a plurality of struts, a first end of the frame arranged proximal to the planar surface of the sign and a second end arranged distal to the planar surface of the sign, and a storm protection material coupled to the frame.

Abstract: An apparatus for displaying a child's art work on a magnetic surface. The apparatus comprising a frame member having each of a predetermined shape, a predetermined thickness and a predetermined size viewing area for displaying such children's art work, the frame member being formed from a flexible magnetic material.

Abstract: A mounting system for displaying planar articles (13) comprising a plate (10) of a magnetic material, a plurality of fingers (12) projecting from the plate (10), the fingers (12) having co-planar support surfaces, and magnets (14) that can be placed in register with the support surfaces so that corners of the planar articles (13) are sandwiched between the magnets (14) and the support surfaces of the fingers (12).

Abstract: Framed fabric artwork features an artwork canvas with an artwork body having a first set of tabs and an orthogonal second set of tabs wherein the rectangular artwork body has a back surface configured to be attached to a first composite backing structure. The first set of tabs is folded beneath the first composite backing structure and adhered to it. A second composite backing structure is configured to be attached to a lower side of the first set of tabs and the second set of tabs is folded beneath the second composite backing structure and adhered to it. A third composite backing structure is adhered to the lower side of the second set of tabs and also joined to the artwork body which, in turn, is nested in a unitary frame with a rectangular well with upright walls at an outer periphery. The outer periphery of the frame may have bosses adaptable for jewelry uses.

Abstract: A body shell structure for toy gun (air soft gun BB-gun) formed of two half shells and defining therein a barrel-like upper chamber for accommodating a bullet firing unit and a lower chamber for accommodating a trigger, a transmission mechanism and a bullet supply unit, having horizontal coupling grooves and horizontal coupling ribs formed on the two half shells above the elevation of the barrel-like upper chamber and vertical engagement blocks and vertical engagement holes formed on the two half shells in front of the upper chamber such that the respective horizontal coupling ribs engage the respective horizontal coupling grooves and the respective vertical engagement blocks engage the respective vertical engagement holes to secure the two half shells firmly together against impact during forward stroke the piston of the bullet firing unit.

Abstract: A weapon (104) including a stock, a barrel assembly (105) slidably mounted on said stock whereby, on discharging said weapon, the barrel assembly (105) slidably recoils relative to said stock, and a damper (107) for decelerating the recoiling barrel assembly, wherein said barrel assembly (105) includes a plurality of projectiles axially disposed within a barrel (108) wherein each of said projectiles is associated with a discrete propellant charge for propelling said projectile from the barrel. Suitably the weapon further includes a breech block (109) which slidably recoils relative to said stock and a further damper (106) for decelerating the recoiling breech block.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a gun barrel having striations is provided, which can uniformly clean an inner surface of the gun barrel by making cleaning members in contact with the inner surface of the gun barrel. The apparatus includes a cleaning device being in contact with the inner surface of the gun barrel as it is moved by a drive device installed inside a cylindrical main body.

Abstract: A method of protecting a pre-defined, at least partially open area, such as a outdoor deck, patio or gazebo, from mosquitoes and other biting insects by removing the scents emitted by humans and pets that occupy the pre-defined area. The scents (Carbon Dioxide, Lactic Acid, as well as other body odors and scents) from humans and animals are either vacuumed and exhausted to an area away from the pre-defined area, or pushed out of the predefined area, thus making it difficult or impossible for a mosquito or other biting insect to identify that humans or pets are occupying the pre-defined area. This method is environmentally friendly, does not emit chemicals or poisons, and allows the occupants of the protected, pre-defined, unenclosed area to enjoy the out of doors without having to have windows, roofs, or screens obscuring airflow and the view of the landscape or heavens.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a fishing pole includes a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end receives a grip and the distal end includes at least one line guide for receiving a fishing line. The grip of certain embodiments includes a flexible mounting tube that engages the proximal end of the rod and a sheet including a polymer outside layer and a fibrous inside layer. In some embodiments, the sheet has a configuration corresponding to the exterior shape of the flexible mounting tube, being wrapped about and adhered to the mounting tube, with the side edges of the sheet abutting one another to define a substantially longitudinal seam extending from the interior surface of the sheet to the exterior surface of the polymer layer. In some embodiments, the grip includes a tube and a strip that is spirally wrapped around the tube to form a substantially helical seam.

Abstract: A fishing rod fixing device includes a base that is supported by two suction cups for easy and efficient attachment of the device to a smooth fixture surface. A seat is rotatably mounted on the base and is releasably set any desired horizontal direction by an adjustment knob. The seat includes a tubular bar on which at least one retainer is mounted and rotatable about the bar for setting the retainer at any desired inclination angle. An angle locking member is provided to releasably secure the retainer at the desired inclination angle. The retainer has a base support mounted to the tubular bar and a top wall member spaced from the base support to define a passage therebetween for receiving a fishing rod. A locking member is provided on the top wall and is manually movable to releasably and selectively secure the fishing rod to the base support.

Abstract: The invention relates to a fishing rod (10) which provides optimal casting technique. This is achieved by the fishing rod being equipped with a curved and flexible handle that offers good ergonomic properties.

Abstract: A fishing lure manufactured from a sintered metal powder. The metal powder may be one or more metals, one or more alloys, or any combination or mixture thereof. The lure is of a weight sufficient to sink to a depth in the water and shaped such that, when urged through the water, the lure moves in a substantially oscillating motion. A method of manufacturing a fishing lure is also disclosed.

Abstract: A bait bag and hook combination is provided for use in fishing. The bait bag and hook combination includes a bag that is fixedly mounted on the hook in such a way that the bag does not hinder the hooks ability to impale game fish. The bag includes an easy-opening and re-closing apparatus for efficient refilling of the bag. In addition, the bag is made up of material that is durable enough to withstand the underwater environment, but is also permeable enough to release the scent of the bait contained inside.

Abstract: A pliers-type tool having gripping channels and a longitudinal axis, further comprises gripping ridges disposed at selected angles from the longitudinal axis to facilitate gripping a fishhook in different dispositions for extraction of the fishhook from a fish. An alternate embodiment comprises top and bottom end portions and a middle portion intermediate the top and bottom end portions. A shoulder connected to the top end portion has first and second portions offset from the longitudinal axis. A first hook engaging member joined to the first portion of the shoulder angularly extends toward the longitudinal axis. The first hook engaging member has an inner surface defining a plurality of grooves therein adapted to engage the fish hook to facilitate removal thereof from the fish's mouth.

Abstract: The embodiments described and claimed herein relate to insect traps. One particular embodiment of the insect trap comprises a housing which holds a insect attracting light source, an insect immobilizing device, and a visible-spectrum light source. The housing at least partially conceals the insect attracting light source, the insect immobilizing device, and the visible-spectrum light source from view and includes a channel into which insects can enter the housing and approach the insect immobilizing device and through which a graduated pattern of insect attracting light can be projected into an area desired to be free from insects. The light pattern emitted from the insect trap includes a diffused light component that is reflected off of a reflective surface and an intense light component that is transmitted through a light conduit. The light conduit captures light from the insect attracting light source from a first end that is in close proximity to the insect attracting light source.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for converting organic material into a burnable substance, typically a hydrocarbon fuel, such as ethanol.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for forming hydrocarbon products from triglycerides are disclosed. In one aspect, the methods involve the thermal decomposition of fatty acids, which can be derived from the hydrolysis of triglycerides. The thermal decomposition products can be combined with low molecular weight olefins, such as Fischer-Tropsch synthesis products, and subjected to molecular averaging reactions. Alternatively, the products can be subjected to hydrocracking reactions, isomerization reactions, and the like. The products can be isolated in the gasoline, jet and/or diesel fuel ranges. Thus, vegetable oils and/or animal fats can be converted using water, catalysts, and heat, into conventional products in the gasoline, jet and/or diesel fuel ranges.

Abstract: The present invention provides a dispersion composition containing (a) a metal base selected from the group consisting of: (i) a metal hydroxide with a solids content of greater than about 51 wt % of the composition; (ii) a metal base other than a metal hydroxide with a solids content of greater than about 15 wt % of the composition; and (iii) mixtures thereof; (b) a surfactant; and (c) an organic medium containing less than about 2 wt % of water. The invention further provides a process for preparing the composition and a method for its use.

Abstract: A reduction in the formation and presence of peroxides in low sulfur diesel fuels is obtained through the combination of those fuels with an organic nitrate combustion improver. The reduction in the amount of peroxides means that the fuel system elastomers will be more durable, as they are not being corroded by as much peroxide formed in the fuel, fuel color durability is improved, fuel stability is enhanced, and fuel sediments are reduced.

Abstract: This invention is directed to biomass processing. In one embodiment, the biomass is processed by contacting the biomass with a swelling agent as the biomass and swelling agent are transported through a reactor system. In another embodiment, the processed biomass is fermented. Steam is also applied in the biomass processing. The steam can be applied before, during or after the biomass is first contacted with the swelling agent.

Abstract: A horticultural support includes an upper volute, a middle volute, and a lower volute wherein the upper volute, the lower volute, and the middle volute form a continuous circumvoluted support. Further, the upper volute is adapted to at least partially encircle a flower of a stemmed plant, and the lower volute is adapted to at least partially encircle a stem of the stemmed plant, such that when the support disposed on the stemmed plant, the flower is fixedly positioned with respect to the stem.

Abstract: Flexible materials having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance of cloth suitable for use in the formation of decorative flower pot covers and flower pots are disclosed. The flexible materials include polymeric materials, paper and laminates thereof.

Abstract: A plant packaging and covering system comprising a floral sleeve having a lower portion and optionally an upper detachable portion which may be sized to surround a plant disposed in a pot. The floral sleeve has a lower end having an angular arcuate portion for improving the conformation of the sleeve to the shape of a pot.

Abstract: A hydroponic liquid nutrient circulation system which includes a plurality of liquid reservoirs, each with a sidewall opening that receives the shank of a split tee device that has separate liquid inlet and outlet passages for flow of liquids into, and out of, the internal space of the reservoirs. The system may include a controller reservoir connected to one or more of these liquid reservoirs.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for vaporising and reforming liquid fuels, in particular the catalytic and non-catalytic partial oxidation and the autothermal reforming of liquid fuels with the addition of air- or air-vapour mixtures or air-water mixtures. The invention thereby solves the problems of the mixture formation, soot formation and conversion into low hydrocarbons and hydrogen in conjunction with reforming methods known from the state of the art.

Abstract: An improved apparatus and method for operating an auxiliary door is provided. Preferably, a remote signal, such as a radio signal, is used to initiate the opening of the door by a battery powered cable-retracting device or the like. The device is generally mounted on the wall adjacent to the door, but could also be mounted on the door. A cantilever extends out from the wall and door at the door hinge. A cable operated by a motor and pulley in the device is attached to the door such that when the motor is energized the door is opened to the cantilever overcoming the closing force for the door. This force is normally provided by a spring, hydraulic, pneumatic, or other known door closing device. Controls are provided to stop the opening motion if an obstacle blocks the door.

Abstract: A carrier and balance assembly for installation into the jamb channel of a window frame. The carrier and balance assembly are capable of being installed into the jamb channel optionally either as a single assembly or as two separate components. The two separate components are the carrier and a hanger-balance subassembly. The advantage of installing the carrier and balance assembly as two separate components is that such installation can occur after the assembly of the window frame and even after installation of the window into the wall of a building. Once the carrier and hanger-balance subassembly are separately installed in the jamb channel, they are then non-permanently locked together. Should any part of the carrier and balance assembly become damaged, replacement is performed by simply reversing the process described above without having to damage the jamb channel.

Abstract: A track for a roll-up industrial door. The track may include realigners adapted to divert the path of the industrial door as it is opened or shut. For example, a realigner may include a tapered portion to maintain a portion of the door within the track as the door is shut. Another realigner may have a tapered portion arranged to direct a portion of the door onto the track after it has been removed from the track. The tracks may be utilized in conjunction with a break-away industrial door having a flexible frame that is adapted to come out of the guide track upon application of a predetermined force.

Abstract: A gate opener has a slide gate panel that slides between an open position and a closed position in order to control passage through the gate. A support plate has a lower spindle support and an upper spindle support and is secured to the ground in appropriate fashion. A motor assembly is rotatably disposed between the lower spindle support and the upper spindle support and has a sprocket operationally attached thereto. When the bidirectional motor within the motor assembly is operational, the sprocket, which directly gearably meshes with a drive rack gear on the gate, rotates causing the gate to slide back or forth. A magnetic reed switch on the sprocket, support plate or control box, senses the presence of a magnet located on either end of the gate deactivates the motor reverse its direction for the next cycle.

Abstract: A slider window assembly for a motor vehicle includes a peripheral frame, at least one fixed panel located within the frame and adjacent an opening and a slider panel located within the frame and movable between a closed position wherein the slider panel covers the opening and an open position wherein the slider panel does not entirely close the opening. A drive assembly is operably connected to the slider panel to selectively move the slider panel between the closed and open positions. The drive assembly includes a rack secured to the slider panel, an electric motor secured to a fixed position on the slider window assembly, and a gear operably connected to the motor and operably engaging the rack so that operation of the motor in opposite directions moves the slider panel in opposite directions between the closed and open positions.

Abstract: An astragal boot for mounting onto a lower end of an astragal includes a platform, a first and second lateral fin spaced from each other and projecting downwardly from the platform, and an auxiliary fin disposed between the first and second lateral fins. The auxiliary fin defines an auxiliary fin edge extending from the first lateral fin to the second lateral fin for sealing engagement with the threshold. The auxiliary fin includes a hub portion and a first and second leg portion each extending from the hub portion to the first and second lateral fins, respectively. The first leg portion extends along a first direction defining a portion of the auxiliary fin edge along the first direction and the second leg portion extends along a second direction at an obtuse angle relative to the first direction defining another portion of the auxiliary fin edge along the second direction.