Abstract: In a sheet stitching apparatus in which a wire W reeled out from a wire reel 5 is cut only a predetermined length, the cut wire is bent into a U-shape and driven into a set of sheets S, both ends of the U-shaped wire are bent and the set of sheets are stitched, there is provided a detector 10-15 arranged for movement according to a change in a degree of bending of the wire guide 4 effected by a change in a remaining amount of the wire of the wire reel 5 for detection of a change of position of the wire guide effected by a pull-in operation of wire by the stitching head 2.

Abstract: The nail presser lid structure for a nailer includes a coupling end and a swinging end. The swinging end is provided with a flexible presser, formed of a presser portion and a spring. The presser portion protrudes from the swinging end to press on the closing side of the removable cover. An inclined guide plane is placed outside of the presser portion. When the removable cover presses the inclined guide plane, the presser portion is forced to return and press the spring to accumulate elastic restoring force. When the closing side of the removable cover overpasses the inclined guide plane, the presser portion will recover again and press the positioning portion of the closing side, such that the nail presser lid and removable cover of the nail box are closed flexibly, offering greater operational friendliness and practicability.

Abstract: An improved fabrication apparatus is provided for the placing screws accurately and reliably into body panels of cargo trailers. The apparatus uses a template that is positioned over the aluminum body panels of a cargo trailer to guide the placement of automatic screwdriver tools, so that the body panels are quickly and accurately mounted to vertical ribs that are part of the framework of the trailer. The invention includes a fabrication fixture that holds the template at predetermined positions to align the template with the ribs of the trailer's framework.

Abstract: A surgical instrument including a firing drive configured to selectively advance a firing member and/or cutting member relative to an end effector and, in addition, a reversing drive configured to selectively retract the firing member and/or cutting member relative to the end effector. The firing drive can include a pawl which can be selectively engaged with the firing member in order to advance the firing member, wherein the pawl can be disengaged from the firing member when the reversing drive is engaged with the firing member. The reversing drive can include a gear train having a first gear operably engaged with the firing member and, in addition, a second gear operably engaged with the first gear, wherein the second gear can be selectively operable with the trigger such that an actuation of the trigger can retract the firing member and/or cutting element via the first and second gears.

Abstract: A surgical instrument with articulated jaw structure includes a frame and two jaws. The jaws have proximal portions that are mounted to each other for movement in a substantially parallel relation between a fully open position wherein the jaws are separated for receiving tissue therebetween and an approximated position wherein the jaws are closer together. Preferably, the jaws are in the fully open position when the distal portion of at least of the jaws is located in an extended position and are in the approximated position when the distal portion of the extended jaw or jaws is located in a retracted position. The surgical instrument may further include a detachable knife assembly and knife actuating mechanism.

Abstract: A ball forming device and method used in a bonding apparatus, including a bonding arm, a capillary attached to the bonding arm, an electronic flame off prove for forming a ball at the tip of a wire passing through the capillary, and a gas atmosphere forming unit for bringing the vicinity of the tip end of the wire into a gas atmosphere. The gas atmosphere forming unit is made of an inner wall element and an outer wall element with a hollow space section in between. The bonding arm side of the inner wall element has an inside open space which is wider than the portion of the bonding arm where the capillary is attached, and gas ejection ports are formed in the inner wall element. A gas supply pipe is connected to the outer wall element to supply, for instance, a reducing gas into the hollow space section.

Abstract: A tail wire cutting method and bonding apparatus executing the same, in which a capillary raised to a predetermined height and a clamper disposed above the capillary and gripping a wire are caused to make reciprocating oscillation movement on, for instance, a circular arc that has an apex at the above-described predetermined height, thus forming (minute) cracks in a portion between the tail wire and a bonding end of a bonding point, and then cutting of a tail wire sticking out of the tip end of the capillary is executed by way of raising the capillary and clamper.

Abstract: A process for brazing components formed of superalloys that contain elements prone to oxidation during brazing. At least one braze tape is applied to at least one faying surface of at least a first of the components being joined by brazing. The braze tape comprises a braze tape alloy containing the base metal of the superalloys and a melting point suppressant, and is applied so as to substantially cover the faying surface. The braze tape is then bonded to the faying surface by heating the first component to a temperature not exceeding the brazing temperature required to join the components. Thereafter, the components are assembled so that the bonded braze tape are between the respective faying surfaces of the components. The components are then brazed together by applying and heating a braze alloy to the braze temperature.

Abstract: A packing container includes: an outer case; a partition member disposed inside the outer case; and a pair of holding plates connected to upper edges of a pair of side plates of the outer case and inserted into the inside of the outer case, the pair of holding plates holding the partition member.

Abstract: There is provided a paperboard carton for receiving articles in two or more layers separated by a divider pad which is secured relative to an end panel arrangement at one end of the carton. The carton has a top panel, a base panel and a pair of opposite sides. One of the side panels has a removable portion adjacent one end which when removed defines a roll out aperture for article removal when the carton is lying on said one end panel arrangement.

Abstract: Cartons are formed from two or more continuous webs that can individually or concurrently provided with cuts, scores, or other lines of disruption.

Abstract: Methods and devices are provided for identifying, locating and provisioning individual RFID devices in a network with “personalities” that are appropriate for the roles of the RFID devices. According to some implementations of the invention, a combination of EPC code information and existing networking standards form the basis of identifying and provisioning methods. For example, MAC address information and EPC information can be combined to identify a particular device and its location in a network. For implementations using the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (“DHCP”), DHCP Options may be used to pass provisioning information. Some implementations employ Domain Name Service (“DNS”) and dynamic DNS (“DDNS”) to allow easy identification of RFID devices.

Abstract: An automated banking machine includes a lower fascia covering the door of the chest or secure enclosure. The lower fascia is movably mounted in supporting connection to the chest housing to permit access to the chest door. An inwardly extending flange supported on the lower fascia engages the chest door when the lower fascia is in an accessible position and the chest door is open. The chest door is thus retained in an open condition for access to the secure area for restocking a currency dispensing mechanism or servicing ATM components.

Abstract: An automated banking machine (10) is operative to carry out financial transactions and includes a user interface (15). The user interface includes a card reader (16) which is operative to read data on user cards which identify user's financial accounts. A fascia of the machine includes a keypad (404, 438, 458) through which users input confidential data. Covers (400, 422, 430) prevent unauthorized persons from viewing confidential inputs to the keypad. Alternatively, movable panels (462, 464) are movable to prevent unauthorized viewing of confidential inputs. Alternatively a keypad cover is selectively collapsible to prevent digit access. A visual indicator is operative to indicate to a user that keypad inputs are being encrypted. Disinfecting techniques may be used to disinfect manual contact surfaces of the machine.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and software are described for authorizing transactions undertaken with a negotiable instrument which is pre-allocated a specific amount of funds. A host computer system may receive a request to allocate funds to a negotiable instrument. The host may verify the availability of funds, and allocate the funds to the negotiable instrument. The host may then receive a request to authorize the transaction in which the negotiable instrument is used. The host may verify that the particular instrument has been allocated the specific amount indicated, and thereby authorize the transaction.

Abstract: A system for using compatible point-of-service (POS) applications to access and control devices of a POS unit. A server runs a POS application and a set of peripheral drivers (or device controls). A networked POS unit communicates with the host server via a communication network, and the networked POS unit includes peripherals connected locally to its I/O ports. The POS unit further includes a device communications management module processing output received from the host server that is generated by the POS application and is targeted at one of the connected peripheral ports. The device communications management module transfers POS device input from the peripherals over the communication network to the host server for processing by the POS application. The POS application interfaces with the peripheral drivers, and the output is provided by one of the peripheral drivers that corresponds to the target peripheral of the networked POS unit.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are systems and methods that provide a temporary payment instrument having a barcode with an encrypted account number and expiration date assigned to a consumer. For example, such systems and methods screen a consumer to determine whether he or she meets credit eligibility requirements established by a merchant card provider. If the candidate meets the credit eligibility, such systems and methods may assign a payment card account number and expiration date to the consumer, encrypt the payment card account number and expiration date, and generate a barcode that includes the payment card and account number embedded therein.

Abstract: A system for authenticating an object is provided having means for sensing coded tags printed on the object which each encode an identity of the object, a signature fragment and a signature fragment identifier associated with the signature fragment, means for identifying a determined signature from the identity, signature fragment and signature fragment identifier encoded by at least one sensed coded tag, means for generating, using the determined signature and a key, a generated identity, means for comparing the identity encoded by the sensed coded tag with the generated identity, and means for authenticating the object using the results of the comparison.

Abstract: The present invention, as embodied in the claims, relates to customer care management via a communications systems and methods including, in embodiments, a combination of automated and human services to be provided to a customer in a retail store environment in real time. For example, one embodiment of the present invention provides an automated method for assisting a customer in a retail store comprising: identifying the customer; periodically identifying the customer's position in the store; identifying a product of interest to the customer; and communicating information to the customer via a remote specialized sales agent or other audio, visual and/or computer data relevant to the customer.

Abstract: The invention relates to an authorization verification method and devices suited therefor, which play back authorization data via a user interface (11) of an electronic playback device (1). During the playback of authorization data via the user interface (11) of a first playback device (1), the playback attributes are modified. The playback of authorization data via the user interface (11) of the first playback device (1) is compared with the playback of reference data via a user interface (21) of a second electronic playback device (2). Authorization is granted in the event the playback of authorization data via the user interface (11) of the first playback device (1) matches the playback of reference data via the user interface (21) of the second playback device (2), and modifications of the playback attributes are, in essence, time-synchronized.

Abstract: A consumer product package bearing a remotely-alterable electronic-ink based display label employing an addressable display assembly including a layer of electronic ink including a bi-stable non-volatile imaging material. The display label includes an integrated circuit layer having a storage element for storing instructions, programs and data, and a programmed processor in electrical communication with the addressable display assembly and a data antenna layer. A signal transmitting layer transmits signals from the data antenna layer to a remote activator module. A signal receiving layer receives electromagnetic signals from the remote activator module, using the data antenna layer.

Abstract: An automatic digital image capturing and processing system for use in a POS environment, comprising a system housing having vertical housing section provided with an imaging window, and containing an area-type illumination and imaging station for generating and projecting an area-type illumination and imaging zone through the imaging window, and into a 3D imaging volume definable relative to the imaging window. An object motion detection subsystem automatically detects the motion of objects passing through the 3D imaging volume, and generates motion data representative of detected object motion within the 3D imaging volume. And a control subsystem, responsive to the object motion detection subsystem, automatically controls operations within the area-type illumination and imaging station during system operation.

Abstract: A checkout device which can be gripped for carrying, installation, and removal. The checkout device includes a generally L-shaped housing including a first housing portion suited to placement within a checkout counter, and a second housing portion mounted above the first housing portion and suited to extending above the checkout counter. The first and second housing portions include a barcode reader for sending scanning light beams from a first aperture in the first housing portion and a second aperture in the second housing portion to form a multi-line scan pattern. The second housing portion has a rear surface including a hand grip.

Abstract: An overlay is provided which can be adhered over the front and/or rear faces of a transaction card (e.g., a credit card) to protect it from wear, and also to lend it a personalized appearance. The overlay is preferably defined by transparent film having window portions that may be situated over important card indicia (such as card numbers, signature panels, and the like), and printed portions that may rest over and maskless critical regions of the transaction card, and which may bear images and/or text for personalizing the transaction card. The overlay is preferably provided with an adhesive rear face and a peelable backing so that a cardholder may peel the overlay from the backing and apply it to a transaction card.

Abstract: A semiconductor device used as an ID chip is provided, of which operation is terminated when its role is finished or expires. According to the invention, an antenna circuit, a voltage detecting circuit, a current amplifier circuit, a signal processing circuit, and a fuse are provided over an insulating substrate. When large power is applied to the antenna circuit, a voltage is detected by voltage detecting circuit and a corresponding current is amplified by the current amplifier circuit, thereby the fuse is melted down. Also, when an anti-fuse is used, the anti-fuse can short an insulating film by applying an excessive voltage. In this manner, the semiconductor device has a function for making it invalid by stopping operation of the signal processing circuit when the role of the device is finished or expires.

Abstract: System (10) for remotely controlling and monitoring a food refrigerator (1), and its content, of the type intended to be given in rental or in free loan from a manufacturer to a vendor of cold products, comprising a control unit (2) for checking and storing a plurality of functioning parameters of the food refrigerator (1), an RFID reader (3) intended to read data stored in a plurality of RFID tags attached to the cold products, a communication unit (4) for interconnecting an external device, the RFID reader (3) comprising means for retrieving data from said RFID tags when the cold products are still stocked inside the food refrigerator (1) and the communication unit (4) localization means for transmitting information to the external device about a geographical localization of the food refrigerator (1). System (10) according to claim 1 wherein said means produce a radio frequency signal at predetermined time intervals for activating said RFID tags.

Abstract: A hydronic heating system for a building includes condensing and non-condensing boilers in a hybrid arrangement. A control apparatus receives information from one or more condition sensors, such as air temperature or water flow, and calculates heating load requirements. The control apparatus then independently selects and operates the various boilers of the system to optimize boiler efficiency and operating characteristics.

Abstract: An irrigation system comprises sprinkler heads with an electrically configurable spray pattern, moisture sensors, and a controller. Based upon input signals from the moisture sensors, the controller dynamically configures the spray pattern of the sprinkler head to allow more water to fall on areas that need to be watered and less water to fall on areas that do not require additional water. The irrigation system can additionally comprise fire sensors. Based upon input from the fire sensors, the controller activates the sprinklers.

Abstract: A fluid vectoring nozzle comprises flow vectoring means suitable for selectively producing a fluid dynamic throat in the nozzle in a plane oblique to the axis of the nozzle, such that in operation fluid flow passing through the throat is rotated about an axis parallel to and coincident with the plane of the throat. That is to say, the present invention comprises flow vectoring means suitable for selectively producing a fluid dynamic throat in the nozzle in a plane oblique to the axis of the nozzle, such that, in operation, fluid passing through the fluid dynamic throat is turned towards an angle perpendicular to the plane of the throat. Fluid injection means are provided to inject a control fluid into the nozzle through a perforate region provided in at least one nozzle wall, thereby generating a fluid dynamic restriction which initiates the formation of the fluid dynamic throat.

Abstract: A subdivided fixed amount distributing apparatus for aerosol containers is provided in which aerosol contents exceeding a specified amount is prevented from being used in one cycle by keeping constant in total number of injection times at all times. A structure is simplified by making it possible to eject total amount to the outside every one time by means of a fixed amount injection valve, so that damage to the distributing apparatus due to outside air temperature is prevented and movement of the distributing apparatus is made smooth when it is pushed and released.

Abstract: A modular fuel nozzle air swirler for a gas turbine engine has a body defining a fuel passage extending between an inlet end and a discharge end of the body. An annular cap is removably secured to the discharge end of the body via cooperating interlocking members.

Abstract: With the coupling of an external field and aeration (or a flow of another gas), nanoparticles can be smoothly and vigorously fluidized. A magnetic force and/or pre-treatment may be employed with the fluidizing gas and, when coupled with a fluidizing medium, provide excellent means for achieving homogenous nanofluidization. The magnetic force interacts with non-fluidizing magnetic particles and helps to break channels as well as provide enough energy to disrupt the strong interparticle forces, thereby establishing an advantageous agglomerate size distribution. Enhanced fluidization is reflected by improved performance-related attributes. The fluidized nanoparticles may be coated, surface-treated and/or surface-modified in the fluidized state. In addition, the fluidized nanoparticles may participate in a reaction, either as a reactant or a catalyst, while in the fluidized state.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a flow-through dispersion device for the dispersion of cell aggregates, the device comprising a first or upstream inlet obstacle and a second or downstream outlet obstacle, each obstacle having at least one traversing hole wherein no two holes align. Between the two obstacles is a turbulence chamber, such that when a cell suspension is passed through the inlet holes, into the chamber and then exits the second obstacle, the turbulence within the chamber disrupts and disperses cell aggregates. The device optionally may have more than two obstacles and turbulence chambers and multiple units may be placed in series to increase the amount of turbulence and time applied to a volume of cells. The invention further encompasses methods of using the device to disperse cell aggregates, and methods of culturing cells that involve seeding cultures and maintaining dispersed individual cells.

Abstract: Disclosed is an auto-feed built-in a paper shredder, including a pair of bisecting lids that are each provided at an inside thereof with a paper press, a paper receiving compartment, an auto-feed, and a paper shredding device located exactly below the auto-feed, wherein the auto-feed includes a paper tray, a paper inlet and two roller assemblies; the paper inlet and the paper shredding device located therebelow are aligned along an identical central axis; the two roller assemblies are provided at opposing sides of the paper inlet in parallel and project into the paper tray, whereby after placing a pile of paper into the paper receiving compartment to be supported by the paper tray, and closing the bisecting lids, the paper presses provided at the insides of the lids would apply a force against the pile of paper, such that a bottommost paper of the pile of paper would be folded in half by the two rollers rotating towards each other and then fed into the paper inlet to be subsequently shredded by the paper shre

Abstract: A mineral breaker including a pair of breaker drum assemblies rotatably housed in a housing with their axes parallel, each drum assembly including circumferentially extending groups of teeth, the groups being spaced axially along the drum assembly to define a circumferentially extending channel between adjacent circumferential groups of teeth, the drum assemblies being arranged such that each circumferential group of teeth on one drum assembly is located to enter a circumferentially extending channel between a pair of neighboring circumferential groups of teeth on the other drum assembly, the cross-sectional shape and size of each tooth and channel being complementary such that the sides and tip of a tooth when entering a channel are closely spaced from the sides and bottom of the channel, and an elongate breaker bar extending longitudinally in a direction parallel to the axes of the drum assemblies, the breaker bar being located with its longitudinal axis positioned inbetween and beneath the axes of rotation

Abstract: A method to write information to, or retrieve information from, an information storage medium disposed within a portable data storage cartridge moveably disposed in a data storage and retrieval system, wherein the data storage and retrieval system further comprises a data storage device. The portable data storage cartridge comprises a moveable curved door slidingly disposed within the enclosure, and a tape reel rotatably disposed within the enclosure, wherein the moveable curved door and the tape reel are non-concentric. The method retrieves the portable data storage cartridge from a storage slot, transports that portable data storage cartridge to a data storage device, disposes the portable data storage cartridge in the data storage device. The method further moves the moveable curved door from said a position to a second position, and reads information from and/or writes information to, the information storage medium.

Abstract: A fiber axis cart includes a series of spools arranged side-by-side on a common shaft where the spools may be locked to turn with the shaft, or they may be made to turn independent of the shaft. A cable is wound onto the spools. The cable winding progresses to the next spool at each access point on the cable. Cable slack for working on each access point is obtained by unlocking the spools and allowing the spools to rotate with respect to an adjacent spool.

Abstract: A dual ducted fan arrangement in which the duct components, engine, and avionics/payload pods are capable of being quickly disassembled to fit within common backpacking systems. Each duct is identical in fan, stator, and control vane design. Assembly connections between ducted fans and electronic modules are also identical. An engine or APU drives the dual ducted fans through a splined shaft to a differential or through electric motors. Energy is transferred to the ducted fans by a single gear mounted to the stator hub. Relative speeds of the individual ducted fans are controlled through separate frictional or generator load control braking mechanisms on each of the splined shafts between the differential and ducted fans. In the electric motor case relative speed is through electronic speed control. The fans are counter rotating for torque balancing. The electronic module locations are vertically variable for longitudinal center of gravity for variations in payloads.

Abstract: A Micro Air-Vehicle (MAV) starting system that provides the combined functions of: packing protection of sensitive vehicle components, a mechanical starting assembly, and a launch pad. The preferred embodiment comprises a container and a container lid with the MAV clamped to the lid. Also disposed on the container lid is a starting assembly. The lid which doubles as a launching pad with the attached MAV is removed from the container, placed on the ground, the MAV is started with the starting mechanism and launched. The arrangement minimizes the physical risk to the operator, minimizes weight of the total MAV system, consumes minimum space in the operators transport system, and eliminates dependence on supply lines for battery replacement or charging.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for modifying aircraft having a fuselage and center fuselage carry through structure that support wing structures, comprising placing a load transferring member to extend through the center fuselage carry through structure, and transferring the tension loads from the wing structures to the center fuselage carry through structure so as to provide a redundant load path that is resistant to the hazards of single point failures modes.

Abstract: A pilot flight control stick haptic feedback system includes a pilot user interface, a position sensor, a pilot motor, and a control circuit. The pilot user interface is movable to a position at a movement rate. The position sensor senses the position of the pilot user interface and supplies a pilot user interface position signal. The pilot motor is coupled to the pilot user interface, and receives pilot motor feedback signals. The pilot motor, in response to the pilot motor feedback signals, supplies feedback force to the pilot user interface. The control circuit determines one or more of the pilot user interface position, movement rate, aircraft control surface slew rate capacity, aircraft control surface load rate capacity, and aerodynamic stall risk and, based on at least a subset of these determinations, supplies pilot motor feedback signals to the pilot motor.

Abstract: A retaining member for holding and supporting an elongated element from a support includes a base portion and a holding portion. The base portion is attachable to the support. The holding portion is connected to the base portion and has a recess for holding the elongated element therein. The recess includes a tubular portion and a plurality of spaced ribs extending radially inwardly from the tubular portion to have different radial heights.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a member for guiding and supporting elongated flexible members such as wires, cables and other flexible lines that can introduce services and utilities into a residential, commercial or similar building structures. The guiding and support members receive and support at least one of the elongated flexible members so that it can be pulled around a corner without being damaged. Additionally, the guiding and support members can be used when the elongated member is only being pulled in a straight run or to organize elongated members that have already been run. Sweeps, including roller sweeps and cradles, can be secured to the guiding and supporting members to maintain a predetermined radius in the flexible members and reduce the amount of friction on the flexible member as it is pulled. This reduction in friction results in a smoother pull of the flexible member and a reduction in the amount of force needed to pull the flexible member.

Abstract: An attaching mechanism to attach to a paintbrush. The attaching mechanism comprises a hook so that when the attaching mechanism is attached to a paintbrush, the paintbrush can be hung by the hook on a rim of a paint can.

Abstract: The present invention is an adjustable support for installing a planar sheet of material between opposed surfaces for protection from events such as storms. The supports secure the planar sheet to an opening such as a door and window, thereby holding it in place during storms, etc. The supports are easily removed and include a substantially L-shaped base and a clamp. The clamp is removably and adjustably attached to the first side of the L-shaped base, thereby forming an aperture between the second side of the L-shaped base and the bottom surface of the clamp. The aperture is adaptable to accept various thicknesses of substantially planar objects. A device is provided for engaging the adjustable support with a support structure, passing through the clamp and passing through a hole in the first side of the L-shaped base and interfacing with support surfaces to hold the substantially planar object between the first support surface and a substantially opposed second support surface.

Abstract: A suction device includes a sucking member having a connecting body connected integrally to a flexible disc body that is disposed under an upright sleeve, a connecting member disposed in the sleeve and connected to the connecting body, an operating member connected to a pivot rod extending through the sleeve, and a cam body accommodated in a cam-accommodating space in the connecting member and pivotable together with the pivot rod. The operating member is operable so as to pivot the pivot rod and the cam body such that an assembly of the connecting member and the connecting body is pulled upwardly by the cam body, thereby forming a vacant space between a central portion of the disc body and a supporting surface to which a peripheral portion of the disc body is attached sealingly.

Abstract: The invention provides a support arm for an apparatus, preferably for a display screen, comprising a first fastening part for attachment to a frame or a wall, a first member, at one end coupled to the first fastening part and at another end coupled to a first pivot joint which allows rotation about a first axis of rotation, a second member which, at a first end, is coupled to the first pivot joint, and, at a second end, is provided with a second pivot joint which allows rotation about a second axis of rotation, a second fastening part for attaching the apparatus to the support arm, coupled to the second pivot joint, the first and second axes of rotation essentially being parallel to one another. The second fastening part is connected to a substantially L-shaped third member via a third pivot coupled to the second pivot joint.

Abstract: A bracket is disclosed for attaching solar panels to roof structures. The bracket may comprise first, second and third planar portions, the first and third portions generally parallel to each other, and the second planar portion disposed at an oblique angle with respect to first and third portions. The first portion may have a plurality of elongated stiffening members disposed at oblique angles with respect to a longitudinal axis of the bracket. Gussets may be provided across the transition between the first and second portions, and the transition between the second and third portions. The gussets and stiffening members are shaped, sized and oriented to enhance the strength of the bracket. The bracket may have a drain hole to allow water to pass through the bracket, and a plurality of fastener holes are provided to enable the bracket to attach to a variety of different solar panels and roof structures.

Abstract: A mounting bracket for an automotive console of an automotive vehicle having at least one sidewall which extends upwardly from the floor of a vehicle. The mounting bracket includes a base adapted for connection to the floor of the vehicle. A central leg extends upwardly from the base and has a top attached to its upper end. The top includes a portion which lies in a substantially horizontal plane and is adapted for connection to the console. In addition, a side flange is attached to and extends outwardly from the top and abuts against the console sidewall to provide additional lateral support. The mounting bracket is of a one-piece construction.

Abstract: A rotatable base apparatus for use with a hose reel enclosure. The base comprises an upper and a lower portion. A bearing is located in between the upper and lower portions and allows the portions to rotate with respect to each other. The bearing can comprise balls mounted in sockets in the lower base portion which ride in a track in the upper base portion. Clips are provided on the upper base portion to secure the hose reel enclosure thereto. This arrangement allows the user to remove the hose from the reel in any direction without the danger of the hose reel enclosure tipping over. The hose reel enclosure will rotate to the direction in which the hose is being removed. It also allows the hose reel enclosure to rotate to the direction that the hose is being wound onto the reel. This prevents the hose from being unevenly wound onto the reel, i.e. piling up on one side of the reel.