Abstract: A process and method for recycling cigarette butts is disclosed. The process and method involves reacting ground cigarette butts with a solvent and mineral spirits and then shaping and drying the resultant product. Once the processed cigarette butts have hardened or cured the material may be formed into useful objects with no leaching of chemicals upon contact with water.

Abstract: Methods and systems for algae production are provided, the methods and systems generally comprising providing at least one body of water having an algae population in suspension, growing algae, heating the body of water with a heat source, heating the algae process with a heat source, drying the algae with a heat source, and covering the body of water with a cover. Heat recovery systems, algae processing, and covers are also provided.

Abstract: Compressed coconut coir pith granules having unique physical and horticultural characteristics are provided along with methods for producing such compressed products by subjecting coconut coir pith to compaction utilizing a roll compactor and subsequently granulating the compacted material.

Abstract: A method for protecting trees or plants from consumption or damage by animals constitutes the use of sharp and physically agitating material over the trees or plants. In one example of the invention a sharp object like barbed wire is used to wrap around the plant where it is vulnerable.

Abstract: A buoyant planter and its use. In one embodiment, the invention is a buoyant planter comprising: a nonwoven matrix body comprising fibers; a plurality of buoyant foam units integrated into said nonwoven matrix to produce a buoyant mass, said buoyant foam units being comprised of an expanded, cured polymer resin that envelopes a portion of said fibers to produce foamed zones; and a hydrophilic growth medium that is supported by said nonwoven matrix body. In another embodiment, the invention is a buoyant planter comprising: a nonwoven matrix body comprising fibers; a plurality of substantially vertical capillary channels within said nonwoven matrix body, each of said substantially vertical capillary channels having an upper end; and a grass sod disposed on said nonwoven matrix body and in communication with said upper ends.

Abstract: The corner planter is a receptacle having rear walls configured to neatly fit in a corner. Pockets are provided on the rear walls of the planter for housing structure to affix the planter to the walls of the corner. The pockets are designed to allow the planter to fit flush with the walls of the corner.

Abstract: A hydrogen producing fuel comprises a chemical hydride and metal hydride. In one embodiment the chemical hydride evolves hydrogen spontaneously upon exposure to water vapor, and the metal hydride reversibly absorbs/desorbs hydrogen based on temperature and pressure. The hydrogen producing substance may be formed in the shape of a pellet and may be contained within a hydrogen and water vapor permeable, liquid water impermeable membrane.

Abstract: A highly compact reforming system made up of arrangements of individual reactor panels interconnected by a joint piece. This arrangement allows for a compact reforming system to be created while still retaining the low pressure drop characteristic of the panel configuration of the steam reforming reactors. In addition, the performance of a series of reactors is improved by incorporating a mixing process into the joint pieces used between panels to form the structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of controlling a door drive, in particular of a roller door, wherein a capacitive sensor is used for the automatic recognition of obstructions in the region of the door closing path, wherein the recognition of obstructions on the closing of the door takes place by a comparison of the then current change in the capacity of the capacitive sensor with respect to a variable with a reference value or a reference curve. The invention furthermore includes a corresponding system of controlling a door drive.

Abstract: A security window for shielding a secured space against forceful attacks generally includes a lateral profile, a pane having outer and inner surfaces, a clamping assembly adapted to hold the pane, a column protruding from the lateral profile, and a first seal disposed longitudinally along the column. The clamping assembly is rotatably coupled to the lateral profile. In operation, the pane moves between closed and open positions upon rotation of the clamping assembly. The column spans longitudinally along the pane and the clamping assembly. The first seal is adapted to hinder fluid from passing through the pane and the clamping assembly and abuts the outer surface of the pane when the pane is located in the closed position.

Abstract: Mobile partitioning wall with several wall elements displaceably suspended in running rails. The mobile partitioning wall have structural units that are technically simple to manufacture and to mount and are structured to be universally usable and can be easily and variably disposed at the edge sides of individual wall elements. The wall elements have mounting elements that are horizontally and/or vertically disposed at the edge sides. Modular structural units are laterally insertable into the mounting elements.

Abstract: A latch for use in a window, the latch including a faceplate, a pair of opposed sidewalls, each sidewall defining a pawl mounting recess, a bottom wall extending between the sidewalls, an aperture defined by the faceplate that opens into a first cavity defined by the housing, and a pair of mounting arms disposed within the first cavity. Each mounting arm has a distal end extending both toward the face plate and inwardly toward a longitudinal center plane of the housing. A pawl is pivotably received in the first recess, the pawl including a top surface, an engagement surface, and a pair of mounting pins pivotally received in the pawl mounting recesses. The distal ends of the mounting arms engage the pawl adjacent a respective mounting pin such that the mounting pins are pivotably secured in the pawl mounting recesses.

Abstract: A lower guide rail is mounted to a lower surface of a vehicle floor panel. Front and rear cable guides are provided on front and rear ends of the lower guide rail. A lower roller bracket fixed to a slide door is guided by the lower guide rail. An electric actuator unit is mounted to the lower surface of the floor panel. The electric actuator unit includes a cable wind/rewind drum. A watertight cover is mounted to the lower surface of the floor panel in a manner to cover the electric actuator unit. A first inner cable is guided by the front cable guide and has one end portion wound on the wind/rewind drum and the other end fixed to the lower roller bracket. A second inner cable is guided by the rear cable guide and has one end portion wound on the wind/rewind drum and the other end fixed to the lower roller bracket.

Abstract: A window assembly includes a stationary glazing panel, a moving glazing panel, and a drive mechanism to selectively move the moving glazing panel. A window frame supports the stationary glazing panel. A mounting frame is located at least partially below the moving glazing panel and is configured to capture any water entering the vehicle at the moving glazing panel and to direct the water to a drain. Outer surfaces of the glazing panels are flush to each other. In one disclosed embodiment, tops of the stationary glazing panel and the moving glazing panel are exposed. In another disclosed embodiment, the side and top of the stationary glazing panel are flush mounted. In another disclosed embodiment, the side and top of the stationary glazing panel is flush mounted and a trim member visually covers the top of the moving glazing panel when the moving glazing panel is in the closed position.

Abstract: Disclosed is a drive device for the automatic opening and closing of hinged lids, especially motor vehicle lids. The drive device includes a housing, a rotary drive installed in the housing, at least one spindle drive, which can be driven by the rotary drive and which comprises a threaded spindle and a spindle nut, a connecting device mounted on the spindle nut, and at least one actuating pull, comprising a cable and a sleeve, where one end of the cable is attached to the connecting device.

Abstract: A barrier release mechanism (1) for a barrier (3) including at least one barrier latch (170), a latch actuation device (7) disposed adjacent the barrier (3) and coupled to the barrier latch (170), the latch actuation device being movable between an engaged position in which the latch actuation device (7) causes the barrier latch to be engaged thereby latching the barrier (3) and a disengaged position in which the latch actuation device (7) causes the barrier latch (17) to disengage thereby allowing the barrier (3) to be moved, the latch actuation device (7) being resiliently biased by a spring (6) into the disengaged position. A source of fluid pressure is in fluid communication with the latch actuation device (7) and a pressure control valve disposed intermediate the latch actuation device and the source of fluid pressure.

Abstract: An opening and closing support mechanism includes: a main body; an opening and closing member; and a support member includes: a first joint support portion that curves to deform when the opening and closing member is closed, and extends straight when the opening and closing member is opened; and a projection portion that projects to an opposite side of a curving side of the first joint support portion at a side of either one end portion or the other end portion of first joint support portion when the opening and closing member is closed, and is elastically deformed in a direction of approaching the first joint support portion while pressed against a portion of the main body or opening and closing member when the opening and closing member is opened, and the support member being fitted between the main body and the opening and closing member.

Abstract: A device for providing closeable access through a ceiling, wall or floor and into an adjacent space, such as a crawl space or attic, includes a base flange surrounding an open portal and a cover plate attachable to the base flange for closing the open portal. The base flange mounts to the ceiling or wall with the open portal axially aligned with an opening previously formed through the ceiling or wall, wherein movement of the cover plate from the closed position permits access through the open portal and into the adjacent space. In a preferred embodiment, the cover plate is hingedly attached to the base flange to permit swinging movement between the closed and open positions. A pesticide dust can be conveniently applied to the adjacent space by inserting the wand end of a duster blower machine through the open portal. An angled adaptor, attachable to the wand end, allows 360° dispersal of the blown pesticide dust within the adjacent space.

Abstract: A device for guiding a drop window on a guide rail is provided that is inclined relative to the vertical line and a horizontal shaft rail. The device includes, but is not limited to a deflector that is fixed on the guide rail and includes, butt is not limited to a vertical edge. The vertical edge extends up to the shaft rail. The deflector prevents the admission of dirt and noises between the shaft rail and the guide rail.

Abstract: A security window for shielding a secured space from forceful attacks includes a fixed lateral profile, a pane, a pane profile movably mounted on the fixed lateral profile, and a locking mechanism is configured to secure the pane profile to the fixed lateral profile. The pane profile supports the pane and is adapted to move the pane between open and closed positions. The locking mechanism has locked and unlocked positions and includes a movable profile adapted to slide longitudinally and transversely with respect to the fixed lateral profile. The movable profile is positioned between the fixed lateral profile and the pane profile when the locking mechanism is in the locked position. When the locking mechanism is in the unlocked position, the movable profile is located inside the pane profile.

Abstract: To provide a slurry for polishing which is excellent in polishing properties, can suppress scratches and is appropriate for accurate polishing in semiconductor production steps, and fine particles of oxide crystal for it. Fine particles of oxide crystal, characterized in that the ratio of the crystallite size measured by X-ray diffraction method and calculated by Scherrer method to the average primary particle size equivalent to sphere from the specific surface area measured by BET is the crystallite size: the average primary particle size=1:0.8 to 1:2.5. A slurry for polishing, characterized in that the fine particles of oxide crystal are dispersed in a liquid medium, and from 0.1 to 40 mass % of the fine particles of oxide crystal are contained, per the total mass of the slurry for polishing.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for dispersing a powder mixture of at least one metal carbide powder and at least one cobalt powder in at least one apolar medium with at least one dispersant and, optionally, at least one wetting agent. According to the invention, the dispersant is an effective dispersant for both cobalt and metal carbide surfaces. The invention is particularly useful for powder mixtures with a fine grained cobalt powder and a relatively high cobalt content. The dispersant used is an amphiphilic compound with a branched copolymer structure.

Abstract: An abrasive wear-resistant material includes a matrix and sintered and cast tungsten carbide pellets. A device for use in drilling subterranean formations includes a first structure secured to a second structure with bonding material. An abrasive wear-resistant material covers the bonding material. The first structure may include a drill bit body and the second structure may include a cutting element. A method for applying an abrasive wear-resistant material to a drill bit includes providing a bit, mixing sintered and cast tungsten carbide pellets in a matrix material to provide a pre-application material, heating the pre-application material to melt the matrix material, applying the pre-application material to the bit, and solidifying the material. A method for securing a cutting element to a bit body includes providing an abrasive wear-resistant material to a surface of a drill bit that covers a brazing alloy disposed between the cutting element and the bit body.

Abstract: An aluminum-foam structural housing unit that is storm-proof, self-contained, and built to withstand natural disaster conditions resulting from hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and fire, and then assist its inhabitants immediately thereafter when interruptions in public utility system service can be experienced. The combined use of aluminum alloy and foam as its building materials gives the unit its great strength, as well as the versatility needed to face natural disaster conditions while providing absolute resistance to heavy winds, flooding, earthquake and fire. Since the unit is buoyant, during flooding conditions it lifts from the ground and is guided by vertical poles to maintain a horizontal orientation. The unit also automatically disconnects from public utility systems as lifting occurs, and it then provides its inhabitants with self-contained sources of water, electrical energy, and sewage management. Thus, the unit is designed to adjust to the flow of nature, instead of working against it.

Abstract: A supply device, in particular for work rooms such as classrooms, includes a profiled body for providing at least one lighting member and/or at least one user connection, which can be connected with an external media line. At least one mounting device is provided for mounting the profiled body. In order to improve room acoustics in a classroom, for example, the supply device also has at least one acoustic surface with a sound-absorbing surface and/or a sound-reflecting surface.

Abstract: A new monolithic module structure for construction and its manufacture method to build monolithic constructions. The monolithic modules can be easily-transported and easily arranged on the conceived site for the construction of the edification. The method comprises the stages of: a) manufacture of the necessary number of harnesses for the fabrication of modules and panels; b) manufacture of modules, where the foundations are fabricated over which the module exterior walls will be manufactured; c) manufacture of panels and flat roofs and of interior panels, if required, simultaneously to the modules; d) integration of interior panels into the modules; e) assembly of the flat roof over the module walls; f) transport and storage of the already assembled module for its commercialization and distribution. The method permits to obtain construction modules at high volumes to be used for diverse constructions.

Abstract: A tapered hexagon building block and a method for building spherical and hemispherical structures from the building block disclosed. The building block can have both a male and a female element for use as an interlocking mechanism for added strength and fitting guidance during construction. The block can be sized for use both as a toy and for use in building temporary or permanent spherical and hemispherical structures. The blocks can be composed of any suitable building material such as the group composed of glass, wood, metal, plastic, quartz, sand, ceramic, clay, brick, concrete, carbon, compressed soot, or any other such building material suitable for the use of the specific structure. The block can be solid or hollow and can be made of any clear material with thin walls to promote the passage of light or solid and opaque to block the passage of light.

Abstract: In an architectural system, a triangular base engages an extension. The base includes three complete struts substantially aligned along their respective axes. These axes each intersect each other to form a triangle contained in a base plane. The triangle's vertices each correspond to a respective nucleus of nodes called A, B and C. This forms three base angles. The first angle has a positive value about equal to [j×20.9°+k×31.7°+m×36°+n×37.4°], where j, k, m and n are each an integer less than three. The second angle also has a positive value about equal to [q×20.9°+r×31.7°+s×36°+t×37.4°], where q, r, s and t are each an integer less than three. The third node engages the second and third complete struts and must be large enough to maintain the third base angle at a positive value less than 60°. At least one of the base triangle struts comprises two or more rigid pieces able to move apart so as to produce a strut elongation.

Abstract: A method is provided for installing a ventilated eaves closure and tile support apparatus along the eaves of a roof. A vented eaves closure apparatus is disposed along the eaves to support the first course of roof tiles at a desired pitch. The apparatus provides support, ventilation, and drainage, while also providing a barrier to wind-driven precipitation, bird nesting, and animal invasion. The apparatus includes an array of openings configured to allow drainage and facilitate the flow of air beneath the tiles and throughout the air space between the roof deck and the tiles. The method and apparatus can be adapted to fit a variety of roof types and roof tiles having different sizes, shapes, and profiles.

Abstract: A fence post anchor that is easily integrally fabricated and attachable onto any type of fence post of choice. The anchor includes a bottom section that functions as a platform and an outwardly projecting spade section that provides strength and stability for the post. The anchor is pivot able between an installed position and an uninstalled position. Most importantly, the anchor automatically self-sets upon installation.

Abstract: Disclosed is a support frame unit for a swimming pool assembly, which stably withstands hydraulic pressure, transmitted from a wall of the swimming pool assembly.

Abstract: A prefabricated wall system used in constructing a structure, the system including a wall segment configured to be lightweight and easily handled manually while constructing the structure, and a securing system configured to secure the wall segment in place on the structure.

Abstract: A multi-floor building comprising a floor garden unit, set on every floor of all floors or every floor of continuous multiple floors, wherein the floor garden unit has a height of two or more floors and is open to outside. A plane projection of two adjacent floor garden units is non-overlapping. A bottom space of an upper floor garden unit and a upper space of an adjacent lower floor garden unit are at a same floor and partially run through. At least two of the floor garden units are in a superposed state to form a set of superposing garden arrangement. The bottom plate of the upper floor garden unit is a roof plate of the adjacent lower floor garden unit. Every two of the floor garden units run through each other in turn to form a stereo-terraced garden.

Abstract: A photovoltaic membrane system is provided for use on a building and, optionally, incorporated into the building envelope. One or more photovoltaic cells are provided at an upper layer of the system. A thermal barrier is disposed between the one or more photovoltaic cells and the building, isolating the two from one another. The thermal barrier may be provided as a series of wedges that are shaped and oriented to optimize electrical performance of the photovoltaic cells. An air channel assembly may be provided to ventilate heated air from beneath the one or more photovoltaic modules away from the system and the building. The system may be integrally associated with the building or removably coupled therewith. Components may be provided for assembly during installation or preassembled modules may be provided for installation.

Abstract: An off-ridge vent for a roof may comprise a longitudinally-extending main body having an arcuate lateral cross-sectional shape with two ends, a front flange extending from one lateral side of the main body, and a rear flange extending the other lateral side of the main body; two end caps, each end cap attached to and closing one of the ends of the main body, each end cap including a face portion which attaches to the main body and a side flange extending from the face portion; wherein, at least one of the end caps comprises a vented portion. The rear flange of the main body and the side flanges of the end caps may comprise return flanges that assist in redirecting any water that contacts the flange. The vent may overlay an aperture in the roof such that air may flow through the aperture and out the axial vent ends.

Abstract: A skylight shaft is coated with a highly reflective film to maximize the amount of light transmitted from the top of the skylight to a room below the skylight. Surface irregularities are formed in the shaft or adhesive that holds the film onto the shaft to diffuse the light and thereby prevent the formation of focal “hot spots” in the room below.

Abstract: An anti-effraction safety system for a door or window frame comprising a fixed frame and a mobile frame, in which the mobile frame comprises at least one sectional element with a longitudinal groove with two undercut portions set on opposite sides of a longitudinal central opening and in which at least one transmission rod slidably engages said groove and can be displaced in a longitudinal direction by means of a control handle. Fixed to the transmission rod is at least one closing element co-operating with a complementary detent fixed to the fixed frame. The transmission rod has two through openings both open on respective longitudinal edges of the rod. The closing element comprises two separate complementary parts fixed to one another, in which each of said separate parts engages a respective through opening of the transmission rod and has a respective tenon that slidably engages in a longitudinal direction a respective undercut portion of the groove.

Abstract: The current invention relates to a unique and compact self-lock glazing mechanism for heavy glazing needs, composed of two aluminum extrusion profiles—a male profile and a female profile—designed in such a way to self-lock glass panels using rubber beading; the said glazing system functions when glass panel is placed on the setting blocks over the upper leg of the said female profile with a pair of spacers between the vertical tip of the said female profile and the said glass panel, and then the horizontal leg of the said male profile is inserted with its locking tip facing upward into the gap between the lower and upper legs of the said female profile; the locking tips of both the male and female profiles are then engaged by tilting the said male profile on its built-in fulcrum by pulling the vertical leg outward and introducing a pair of wedges into the space so created between the said glass panel and the said vertical tip of the male profile to keep the lock engaged and the said profiles get arrested; eve

Abstract: A metal construction member is disclosed in which the main body is fabricated from a high yield steel sheet which has a thickness dimension of about 0.015 inches to about 0.045 inches, and a yield strength of about 57 ksi to about 65 ksi, and has a cross sectional shape which imparts increased strength to the metal construction member.

Abstract: A form for receiving a filler material to create an island is provided. The form is made essentially entirely out of galvannealed steel that is easily paintable. The form has a substantially continuous wall having an outer surface and an inner surface. The wall is made out of a plurality of galvannealed steel wall sections. The wall has a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The inner surface forms an enclosed chamber for receiving the filler material. A first support made out of galvannealed steel is attached to the inner surface of the first side of the wall and a second support made out of galvannealed steel is attached to the inner surface of the second side of the wall. A brace made out of galvannealed steel is disposed between the supports, wherein the brace removably engages the supports.

Abstract: Disclosed is a three dimensional building element having outer shells formed from cementitious compositions having different densities. The outer shell forming the exterior portion of the building element has a density greater than the interior shell to provide structure strength. The interior shell is formed from a lower density cementitious compound to provide an interior wall portion of a structure with a smooth finished appearance. The lower density of the interior cementitious compound enables the interior shell to obtain a smooth finished appearance without the need to apply various secondary coatings such as plaster or drywall.

Abstract: Metal doors may be more cost-efficient than wood to manufacture and maintain, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing to the consumer. For example, metal garage doors may only be available in limited color lines and often do not simulate a natural wood grain in a very realistic manner. Also, metal garage doors may be limited in design, in that it may be difficult to add three dimensional shaping, such as trim or paneling, to the outer surface of a metal door. For example, some manufacturers apply extrusive plastic panels to the face of a metal garage door to add a design to the face of the door. The plastic and metal components, however, may exhibit different physical properties in response to changes in temperature and humidity and thus, the door may exhibit warping or other types of deformation upon exposure to weather.

Abstract: Structural insulation sheathing (SIS), preferably in the form of a panel, comprises a structural member and an insulation member. The structural member and insulation members are in intimate, planar contact with one another, and the SIS structure meets both the structural (that is, AC 269) and insulation (R>2) requirements for the North American residential market. The structural 23 member of the SIS structure is multi-layer laminated paperboard. The insulation member of the SIS is a foamed sheet of a thermoplastic material such as polyisocyanurate.

Abstract: A grout selector composed of a flat substrate, a coating on the substrate for simulating the color and/or finish of one of a plurality of grouts and fold lines for enabling the substrate to be folded and placed between adjacent bricks, tiles or other coverings to simulate the presence of grout.

Abstract: A metal roof assembly comprising at least two interlocking elongated sheet metal roofing panels, each roofing panel having a top lock portion, a bottom lock portion, a middle portion between the top lock portion and the bottom lock portion, and having a left side and a right side; a cleat having a flat portion and an inverted substantially-V-shaped portion, the inverted substantially-V-shaped portion being in communication with the flat portion, the cleat in the roof assembly interposed between the top lock portion of a first interlocking elongated sheet metal roofing panels and the bottom lock portion of a second interlocking elongated sheet metal roofing panel; wherein a portion of the bottom lock portion of the second elongated sheet metal roofing panel accepts a portion of the top lock portion of the first elongated sheet metal roofing panel.

Abstract: Constructive disposal in socket of floor, or more particularly the present Utility Model, which includes technical and functional improvement specially developed for characterizing a system of socket of floors, shaped by a laminate part (1), preferably made in a material such as plywood, agglomerated or any other wood material having both sides smooth, being one top (2) and one bottom (3) while in its sides, said part (1) presents a male kind socket (4) presenting a projection whose bottom face is in curvilinear (5) and shaping a socket (6) in its back portion in which it is contemplated an slant plan (7) to facilitate the socket between the parts (1).

Abstract: The present invention provides a block useful in the construction of walls and structures that is shaped in the general form of a rectangular solid. A horizontal channel extends along the entire length dimension of the block, open coincident with the top of the block. An open vertical channel associated with each end faces outwards toward an adjacent masonry block end. A protruding portion extends from the flat bottom with the same width of the open channel on the top, so that an interlocking connection is formed. A protruding rectangular portion is optionally incorporated into the front face portion, and also optionally into the rear face portion, leaving a recess along one end, and along the top, so that when assembled into a wall, the recessed parts of the face portion give the appearance of mortar joints. Vertical and horizontal rebar may be set within the aligned channels of the blocks when assembled into a wall.

Abstract: The invention includes a generally parallelepiped-shaped building block which has at least one male engaging formation defined on a first side thereof and at least one complimentary shaped female engaging formation defined on an opposed second side thereof, the engaging formations are shaped and configured to permit at least a portion of the, or each, male engaging formation of a similar building block to be received within the, or each, female engaging formation, thereby aligning and leveling the blocks relative to each other.

Abstract: An artificial stone siding product for use as siding for homes, commercial buildings, and other structures, as well as for hearths, mantles, and other similar indoor structures, is provided. The artificial stone siding product includes a stone body cast of a cement aggregate and having an outer visible surface area shaped and colored to resemble real stone. An integral mounting support extends from at least one edge of the stone body. The mounting support allows the attachment of the artificial stone siding product to a surface of a wall using fasteners inserted through apertures defined by the support. The artificial stone siding product may be used to quickly and easily construct a stone wall by mounting a plurality of the artificial stone siding products to the exterior of a wall in much the same way as standard siding.

Abstract: A water resistant structural board suitable for use in a wall system is disclosed. The structural board has water drainage channels on at least one of its surfaces to drain any water trapped behind the sealed wall system. The water drainage channels may be imparted into the structural board during or applied subsequent to a board production process, and the produced board is shipped to the construction site for a wall installation. When desired, the channeled surface of the structural board may be laminated, coated, or sprayed with a water resistant layer to further enhance the water resistant property of the board. A wall system including the disclosed structural board does not require a layer-by-layer installation of a component having water resistant property and a component having water drainage channel structure at a work site; therefore, labor cost and installation time may be reduced significantly.