Abstract: Electric chain saw with static cooling features a cutting chain fitted so as to turn around a drive sprocket and a guide bar of oblong shape, and an electric motor effecting the drive of this chain, through the intermediary of the sprocket. The electric drive motor drive of the cutting chain is a brushless direct current motor enclosed in a housing formed by at least two components and made of a light metallic alloy, with one surface of the housing being in contact with the drive motor drive, to provide static cooling.

Abstract: An apparatus for drafting a framework for a pattern and a method of using the apparatus is presented. The apparatus includes a generally rigid planer structure. A pivot point includes a pivot point aperture extending through the rigid planer structure for enabling scribing a center point of the framework and rotating the rigid planer structure about the center point. A plurality of lines pass through the pivot point. Each of the plurality of lines includes a plurality of apertures for enabling scribing marks for forming a basis for lines in the framework. At least one line of generally equally spaced longitudinal apertures, wherein each of the longitudinal apertures is at a first fixed radial distance from the pivot point, enables scribing a circle for the framework, where the circle is scribed by rotation of the rigid planer structure about the pivot point.

Abstract: The “PT RULER”, an improvement on the typical triangular architectural scale ruler, in the following ways: 1) improvement of the view angle of the ruler eliminating the need for the user to “bend over” the ruler, 2) improvement of the arrangement or placement of the scales on the ruler to enable the user to simply “rotate” the ruler to view related scales, 3) improvement of the color of the individual scales, with each scale having its own distinctive color, 4) improvement of the font of each individual scales, using different font sizes for better readability, and 5) improvement of the ruler by changing the 16 scale with a 16? on center scale (based on ¼? scale).

Abstract: A method and device for measuring an amount of wear on a flank of a gear tooth is provided. The method includes positioning a template comprising a first template tooth adjacent a gear comprising a first gear tooth. The method also includes adjusting the position of the template in a rotational direction with respect to a known rotational reference point of the gear, adjusting the position of the template in an axial direction with respect to a known axial reference point of the gear, and adjusting the position of the template in a radial direction with respect to a known radial reference point of the gear. The method further includes measuring an extent of a gap between an edge of the first template tooth and an adjacent flank of the first gear tooth, wherein the gap corresponds to the amount of wear on the flank.

Abstract: A measuring machine comprising a measuring column, which can move vertically with respect to a carriage, and a device for balancing the weight of the column, which is provided with a pneumatic cylinder having its liner fixed to the column and the stem constrained to a supporting structure, carried by the carriage via an elastic-suspension assembly that enables the stem to follow the liner in the case of adhesion and to return into a position of equilibrium when the elastic reaction of the elastic-suspension assembly overcomes the force of friction between the piston and the liner; stick-slip phenomena are thus neutralized.

Abstract: A putter fitting device (1) having a base plate (2) with a fixation device (5) for a putter head (14), which provides a first fixation state for a first, torque-proof fixation of the putter head (14) and a second fixation state for a second, rotational fixation of the putter head (14) in reference to the base plate (2), with the putter head (14) in the second fixation state being rotational in a plate plane of the base plate (2). An adjustable positioning body (11) is connected to the base plate to predetermine a stance of a person in reference to the base plate (2), and alignment markings (9, 27, 29) are provided for a targeted alignment of the putter head (14) in the second fixation state and for controlling a selected alignment of the putter head (14).

Abstract: A construction bracket to aid in framing steel stud walls.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning a simulated hair article such as a wig or other hairpiece. In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a housing, an ozone generator, an ultraviolet light source, and a gas recirculation structure. The apparatus reduces or eliminates microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi from the simulated hair article, and also eliminates odors therefrom.

Abstract: A laundry machine includes a cabinet and a partition wall dividing an inner space of the cabinet into a first space for main laundry treatment and a second space for auxiliary laundry treatment. An air supply unit is provided outside of the second space and supplies a downward airflow into the second space.

Abstract: A configurable hoof drying apparatus. The drying components of the apparatus are selectable, configurable and inter-changeable for desired drying needs and change a pressure, speed and temperature of an original drying air source. Therefore it can be used with a hot/warm/cool/cold air drying source. The hoof drying apparatus is portable and specifically designed, but is not limited to, drying hooves for the purposes of: hoof wall repair, preparation for medication for hoof diseases and preparation of the hoof for application of hoof dressings and hoof shoes. The hoof drying apparatus can also be used for drying non-hoofed animals.

Abstract: A method for drying a material such as a polymer hydrogel which passes through a cohesive phase as it dries is disclosed. The method comprises agitating a composition while removing liquid until the solids content of the composition reaches a level at which the composition enters a cohesive phase, halting agitation, removing liquid from the composition in the absence of agitation, and resuming agitation. Practice of the present invention can eliminate the problems associated with adhesion of a material to itself and to process equipment during the cohesive phase.

Abstract: An apparatus for drying laundry including a process air system for guiding a process air stream along a process air path having a treatment chamber therealong at which the process air stream contacts laundry, a first fan for moving the process air stream, a cooling location of a heat exchanger, a heating location of a heat pump downstream of the heat exchanger, and a heater in addition to the heat pump for heating the process air stream; and a secondary air system for guiding a secondary air stream along a secondary air path, the secondary air path including a second fan for imparting motion to the secondary air stream, a heating location of the heat exchanger, and a cooling location of the heat pump, and, within the secondary air path, the cooling location of the heat pump is located downstream of the heating location of the heat exchanger.

Abstract: A device for heat-treating a pourable plant product, in particular for roasting coffee beans, comprises a roasting vessel. The roasting vessel is formed by a rotor bowl and a lid device. The rotor bowl is rotated relative to the lid device about a vertical axis by means of a drive means. A hot air generator is connected to the roasting vessel via a feed channel. According to the invention, the hot air generator and the feed channel are components of the, in particular fixed, lid device.

Abstract: A vehicle dryer includes an energy-conserving rotatable inlet butterfly valve to selectively admit or block air to a fan encased in a blower housing. The valve includes a plate mounted on a shaft that extends across the inlet portion of the blower housing. The plate is rotated by its shaft to either an opened position for admitting air into a blower housing, or a closed position for blocking air from entering into the blower housing. A crank arm is coupled to the valve shaft, and a pneumatic cylinder includes a piston rod for turning the crank arm through a ninety-degree angle, thereby rotating the valve plate between its opened and closed positions.

Abstract: A condensation dryer is provided that includes a drying chamber for articles to be dried and a process air circuit in which a heater for heating the process air is located. The heated process air can be guided across the articles to be dried along a circulation route that includes a blower, an air/air heat exchanger, and a heat pump circuit having an evaporator, a compressor and a condenser. An additional heat exchanger is arranged in the heat pump circuit between the condenser and the evaporator, the additional heat exchanger being functionally coupled to the air/air heat exchanger.

Abstract: The method of drying of the present invention includes providing a dryer with a payment receiving means providing a heat source in thermal communication with the dryer. Clothes are then inserted into the dryer and a means of payment to the payment receiving means of the dryer is provided. A drying cycle is then initiated to operate the dryer. Moisture is sensed in the clothes ax the dryer is being operated. The dryer is turned off when the moisture in the clothes exceeds a predetermined amount representing a dry load. Payment is received from the means of payment while the dryer is in operation. Payment is stopped from the means of payment when the dryer has ceased operation. As a result, the user has paid only for the time for the dryer to provide a dry load of laundry.

Abstract: A process and system for drying and cooling products by which relatively low air flow is used such that a substantial amount of the heat added to the products during manufacturing is recaptured to dry the product. The products have starting temperature and moisture content conditions higher than ambient conditions, and the process and system comprise drying and cooling the product using ambient air with minimal additional heated air, if any. The product may move through various drying and cooling sections where air being counterflowed removes both heat and moisture from the product, heating that air and allowing it to further dry the product.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for torrefaction of water containing cellulosic materials is performed in an inert atmosphere. The cellulosic material is cascaded through the apparatus between a plurality of rotatable trays vertically stacked within multiple processing zones. Steam being generated from heating of the cellulosic material is recycled back to the apparatus to provide an inert atmosphere. The steam may be superheated in a heat exchanger. Exhaust from the torrefaction zone of the apparatus has some moisture and other volatiles removed prior to being reheated in a burner. The heated exhaust is used in the heat exchanger to superheat the recycled steam.

Abstract: A clothes drying machine, particularly a safe clothes drying machine with a large space structure is disclosed. It includes a clothes drying chamber, a warm air buffer chamber, a fan chamber for heat supply and a controller, wherein the clothes drying chamber, warm air buffer chamber and fan chamber for heat supply are independent parts assembled in turn from top down, and the warm air buffer chamber disposed under the clothes drying chamber is a basin-shaped casing with an opening upwards and an air inlet attached to the fan chamber for heat supply is disposed at the bottom of the basin-shaped casing is provided with a fixing device for clothes drying chamber.

Abstract: The invention relates to a nozzle arrangement (6) adapted to supply at least one fluid-phase additive into a storing compartment (4) of a textiles treatment apparatus (2), in particular an exhaust air and/or condenser dryer, a refreshment apparatus or a washing machine having drying function. The nozzle arrangement comprises at least one nozzle (8), each being adapted to feed an additive; and at least one trapping device (10) adapted to trap and/or to remove liquid and/or particles leaving the at least one nozzle (8) or forming at or close to said nozzle. Further, the invention relates to an additive supply arrangement (6, 18, 20, 22, 12) adapted to supply at least one additive, comprising at least one nozzle (8), each being adapted to feed an additive; at least one additive supply source (12); and at least one fluid channel (18, 20) connecting the at least one additive supply source (12) to the at least one nozzle (8); wherein at least one fluid channel comprises at least one capillary element.

Abstract: A method of assembling customized footwear on-site and a customized on-site footwear system. The method of assembling customized footwear on-site includes the steps of displaying a plurality of shoe bases; displaying a plurality of heels; displaying a plurality of lower fore-foot straps; receiving from an on-site customer a selection of one of a plurality of shoe bases; and assembling the selected heel, shoe base, and lower fore-foot strap into the customized footwear on-site. The customized on-site footwear system includes a chosen-on-site shoe base, a chosen-on-site heel, and a chosen-on-site lower fore-foot strap.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multilayer laminate footwear insole with a top layer and a bottom layer with at least one cushioning layer, in which a channel transects the top layer of the insole and one or more punctuations in the channel transect the bottom layer of the insole.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper, a sole attached to the upper, and an impact absorber attached to the upper at least along a midfoot region of the upper and capable of absorbing a portion of a lateral impact when the impact absorber is moved into contact with a top surface of the sole. The impact absorber is be integrally formed with the sole and has a width that varies along a length of the impact absorber. The width of the impact absorber decreases in a forefoot region and a heel region. The upper rolls to contact the top surface of the sole upon lateral impact. The sole and the upper may be attached asymmetrically.

Abstract: The technology described herein provides a graphics plate bearing a graphic and configured for placement on a bottom surface of a sole of a shoe. The graphics plate is removable and interchangeable. In a second embodiment, a shoe is provided having a graphics plate bearing a graphic and configured for placement in a shoe, a sole of the shoe being molded and configured for receipt of the graphics plate. In a third embodiment, a footwear system is provided for imprinting customized messages on a surface below. The footwear system includes a shoe having a molded sole and a graphics plate bearing a graphic and configured for placement on a bottom surface of the molded sole of the shoe. Once inserted into the shoe, the graphics plate leaves an imprint of a surface below the sole of the shoe as a wearer of the shoes walks and runs.

Abstract: A sub-assembly for incorporation into a shoe, in particular a ladies shoe, comprises a base having at least an arch portion and a heel portion, and a heel, which is adjustable between a first, relatively low position and a second, relatively high position. The heel is at least partially detachable from the base and, once at least partially detached, is freely rotatable or rotatable about a pivot that is movable with respect to the base.

Abstract: Embodiments provide for an easily interchangeable footwear component, such as an upper portion of an article of footwear. In one embodiment, an article of footwear can comprise a fixed upper portion of an article of footwear, a sole fixedly connected to the fixed upper portion, and an interchangeable upper portion. Both the sole and the interchangeable upper portion can include one or more releasable fasteners, which allow the interchangeable upper portion to be releasably fastened to the article of footwear.

Abstract: An outsole for a golf shoe having a plurality of lateral and medial cleats spaced apart longitudinally adjacent the perimeter on each of the lateral and medial sides of the foresole region, and least one cleat adjacent the perimeter on each of the lateral and medial sides of the heel region, with a groove running longitudinally through the foresole region between the medial and lateral cleats, in substantially vertical registry with a region of the foot defined by the center phalange and the lateral and medial phalanges adjacent the center phalange. Preferably another groove extends between the lateral and media sides of the foresole region, having an inverted “V” shape with the apex of the “V” directed forwardly and intersecting the longitudinal groove, in substantially vertical registry with all of the five phalange joints lying midway between the toes and the arches of the foot. In a further preference, a raised pad is provided at the medial side of the arch region.

Abstract: A surface protector is disclosed that is adapted to be removably affixed to at least a portion of a surface-contacting layer of a mobile entity. The surface protector may include a protective cover corresponding to a surface-contacting layer of the mobile entity, the protective cover defining first and second opposing sides. A first fastening element may be disposed on the first side of the protective cover for attaching the first side of the protective cover to the surface-contacting layer of the mobile entity. The protector may aid in preventing a transfer of substances located on the mobile entity from a first environment to a second environment. In alternative aspects of the invention, the surface protector may be used to protect the mobile entity itself from unwanted substances coming into contact with the mobile entity.

Abstract: Articles of manufacture and articles of wear may include one or more traction elements. Portions of the traction elements may be extendable and/or retractable. The traction elements have at least a two-plate construction that is designed to moderate a force that is applied to one of the plates. This construction may be used in articles of footwear having cleats or other traction elements. force applied by a wearer's foot may be moderated by the two-plate construction.

Abstract: A remotely operated underwater dredging system that can excavate many hundreds of feet below the surface of a water body. By placing dredge pump at the bottom of the water body, the vacuum to lift water and dredged material to the pump is minimized. In addition, the mechanical advantage of the cutterhead can be greatly enhanced by mounting it directly to a submerged dredging chassis close to the pump.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ground-working machine (11) equipped with a drive and with advancement members (21). Its advancement members (21) serve inter alia to carry a supporting structure (23) set apart from the positioning plane of the machine, on which supporting structure (23) there is arranged, in the region of a central axis (Z), a kirving tool (25) with at least one transverse kirving roller (13) for working a substrate on which the ground-working machine is standing. The kirving roller (13) is rotatable about its roller axis (V). The roller axis (V) is pivotable about a steering axis (W), which steering axis (W) is arranged in the direction of the central axis (Z) set apart from the advancement members (21).

Abstract: A planar sign (16) is retained by a sign holder (1) suitable for mounting on a shelf (18). The sign holder includes a prong (8) that fits within an orifice (11) so that the sign is gripped between panel 7 and the half 12, thereby securing the sign to the shelf 18. The sign includes a tab (20) that is formed with a series of edges (23, 25, 27, 29) that define a circuitous pathway leading to a radius (34) that prevents the further advance of the prong (8). By aligning the circuitous pathway of the sign (16) with the prong (8) and advancing the sign so as to guide the prong through the pathway, the sign may be inserted into the holder (1) even if the holder has been folded and the prong secured while previously used to hold a sign.

Abstract: An advertisement system comprises a visible cover for a merchandise-carrying container of a vehicle, the cover being shaped and/or decorated in association with the merchandise to be contained therein and/or with the advertisement provided on the cover. The cover can include a shell adapted to be mounted to the container of the vehicle. The cover is typically removably mounted to the container. Also, the advertisement system can be embodied in a merchandise-carrying container for a vehicle, the container being shaped and/or decorated in association with the merchandise to be contained therein and/or with the advertisement provided on the container. Furthermore, wraps may be applied on the container with images being provided on the wrap to provide various 3D or 3D-type advertisement effects.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a guide and tensioning system for a billboard, comprising a facing area surrounded by trim pieces. The trim pieces each comprise a back plate, a side plate and a front plate. Guide groups may be located at various locations along the outside edge of the back plate. The guide groups may comprise an arced guide located between two tab guides or a keeper tab may be centered over the arced guide. The guide group may also comprise a clip that selectively secures to the arced guide. The clip has a complimentary shape to the arced guide and to a gap in the back plate. Hook-like structures on the clip selectively engage with the end edge portions of the arced guide. When engaged with the arced guide, the clip preferably prevents a cable member from falling behind the back plate.

Abstract: The present invention provides weather and use-protected sign posts, and methods of beautifying and extending the useful life of sign posts by protecting them against weather and use, through the application of a heat shrinkable material onto the post.

Abstract: A picture frame for holding and displaying content. The picture frame has an edge with a channel receiving the content. An edge segment is attachable to and detachable from the remainder of the edge, using magnets, to allow insertion and removal of the content. A back has a front face to which the edge remainder is attached and a rear face including one or more magnets for attaching the back to a magnetically attractive surface. An optional stand has a plurality of elements that engage at least one of the back magnets to support the back in multiple directions and orientations. An optional hanger is made of a magnetically attracted material for engaging at least one of the back magnets and attach the hanger to the back. The hanger is configured to engage a fastener and hang the picture frame from the fastener when the stand is not in use.

Abstract: A method of interconnecting locations and time events, which includes the steps of (a) replaceably selecting a first image at a first memorial location and selectively setting a first reference time corresponding to the first image in responsive to a present time; (b) replaceably selecting a second image at a second memorial location and selectively setting a second reference time corresponding to second image in responsive to the present time; and (c) interconnecting the first image and the second image to interlink the first and second memorial locations with the first and second reference times for creating a location-time chain relationship as a reminder to remind the user to live in the moment.

Abstract: A trigger blocking device comprised of a frame removably affixed around a trigger guard of a rifle. The trigger blocking device holds a blocking shaft behind the trigger, the shaft being capable of sliding longitudinally or axially into two separate positions, one position where the shaft blocks the operation of the trigger and the other position where a recessed area in the shaft forms a trigger channel, when moved into position, allows the operation of the trigger. The blocking shaft extends across the frame and is positioned behind the trigger. When the blocking shaft is behind the trigger in a first position with the trigger channel not aligned with the trigger, the blocking shaft prevents rearward movement of the trigger, preventing the firearm from firing.

Abstract: A rifle construction includes an action and barrel that seat within a stock. Vibration-damping material, such as a foam or gel, is interposed between at least portions of the stock and action that would normally be in contact with each other. The material may be secured to the stock or metal parts as adhesively backed strips or may be sprayed or extruded. The action is fastened to the stock with flexible fasteners that allow the action to seat properly and maintain alignment in the presence of recoil forces or other forces acting on the fasteners.

Abstract: A method of loading individual caseless cartridges sequentially into a firearm firing chamber by the expansive force of a small detonation in the magazine focused locally on the current top cartridge in a magazine without damaging remaining cartridges. Small individual propelling charges containing an igniter microchip located in the magazine behind each cartridge provides the loading thrust. More energetic charges containing igniter microchips are imbedded in the cartridges to fire the cartridge in the firing chamber at will.

Abstract: There is disclosed an automatic or semiautomatic firearm having one or a plurality of parallel rail attachments for weapon attachments (accessories) with a central power source capable of powering the accessory devices electrically connects through a series of parallel rails circumferentially surrounding a barrel of the firearm. More specifically, there is disclosed a central power source to power up one or a plurality of rail accessories that provides power to each rail accessory through, preferably, a copper or brass strip located on each rail element. In addition, there is disclosed a method for transmitting information among and between weapon attachments using the rails as an antenna and radio frequency transmission of digital or analog signals to receiver units in each attachment of within a central bus.

Abstract: An optical sight is provided and may include an optical element and a reticle displayed on the optical element. A housing of the optical sight may include a base, a first post extending from the base, a second post extending from the base, and a cross member extending between the first post and the second post to define an opening receiving the optical element therein. The first post and the second post may extend above the opening and away from the base a greater distance than a top surface of the cross member.

Abstract: An auto light intensity adjustment system is provided. The auto light intensity adjustment system includes a light sensing unit, a charge/discharge circuit, a comparator unit and a light source module. The light sensing unit outputs a sensing signal according to an ambient light intensity detected thereby. The charge/discharge circuit is coupled to the light sensing unit for receiving the sensing signal, and generating a voltage signal with regular variation periods according to the sensing signal. The comparator unit compares the voltage signal to a threshold value signal, and outputs a result signal accordingly. The light source module modifies a light intensity according to the result signal. The invention automatically controls the light intensity according to the ambient light intensity.

Abstract: A device and related method for monitoring, detecting and/or controlling pests such as rodents and insects, including termites, are disclosed which comprises: (a) encouraging a first characteristic behavior by the pests that is indicative of the presence of one or more of the pests; (b) discouraging a second characteristic behavior by the pests that at least partially interferes with detection of the first characteristic behavior; and (c) observing, detecting or sensing an occurrence of the first characteristic behavior by one or more of the pests. In one embodiment, the device comprises at least one photonic device; a light conductive assembly in optical association with the at least one photonic device, the assembly comprising first and second spaced apart components having first and second opposed light transmitting surfaces forming between them a spatial region adapted to contain a pest bait member comprised of one or more materials susceptible to consumption or displacement by the pests.

Abstract: The present invention is a multiple use fishing assembly. This assembly includes a fishing rod holding unit capable of holding at least one fishing rod. This fishing rod holding unit is designed and configured to have various components removably secured thereto. One component is a removable outrigger assembly. When attached the fishing assembly of the present invention will be a combined fishing rod holding unit and outrigger. If the outrigger is not desired, then the user can remove the outrigger and optionally can removably secure an additional fishing rod holding apparatus. Such a configuration enables the user to select his desired fishing option. Consequently providing an apparatus that can successfully be used for trolling, kite, drift and bottom fishing.

Abstract: A fishing hook retaining apparatus is provided. In a first aspect, a first member and a second member of the fishing hook retaining apparatus oppose one another and pivotally rotate about a shaft from a closed position to an open position when compressive force is applied to lower portions of the first and second members. While open, an operator may insert a fishing hook into the fishing hook retaining device and subsequently release the applied force to permit the first and second members to close and thus secure the fishing hook within the fishing hook retaining device. In a second aspect, when in the closed position, the first and second members not only secure the fishing hook therewithin, but compressively grip a cylindrical rod placed therebetween, which secures the fishing hook retaining apparatus to the cylindrical rod, wherein the cylindrical rod is a fishing pole.

Abstract: Anti-snag fishing devices suitable for attachment to a fishing hook are disclosed. The fishing hook has a hook eye, a shank, at least one curved hook section and at least one hook point. The anti-snag fishing device includes an elongated body member which when fitted to the fishing hook forms an arc which projects upwardly from at or near the hook eye, reaches its highest point above the plane of the hook point substantially parallel to the shank, then projects downwardly passing by and under the hook point, where it terminates behind the curved section of the fishing hook.

Abstract: A snag-proof multi-purpose fishing weight apparatus combined with fish hook and a fish attractant/fish feeding stimulant delivery system generally comprises a slender tubular hollow shaft with small holes along its length which can be filled with fish attractant/feeding stimulant and then seep or ooze out of the small holes along the shaft into the surrounding water. The shaft has attached to it on one end (top) a flotation device and a flexible wire to which is attached a fish hook and main fishing line. The other end of the shaft (bottom), has a weight of the same diameter as the shaft and attached to it and extending from it on the same plane creating a smooth extension of the shaft. This configuration, underwater will naturally orient the apparatus in the upright vertical position with the float end and fish hook on top and the weighted end resting on bottom, while positioning the baited hook outward and away from shaft in view of foraging fish.

Abstract: A device for trapping and collecting snails in an aquatic environment. The device includes a basin with a lid having a top opening through which snails may enter, a floating screen to keep snails retained, and a standpipe to anchor the device to the bottom of a water body and to serve as a location for the deposit of snail eggs.

Abstract: The present invention is a container for capturing mosquito larvae comprising: a water container (8) in which natural water can be pooled; an open-top concave induction pipe (1) which is to be intruded into the water container (8); a passage opening (4) formed in the lower part of the concave induction pipe (1); a passage-blocking member (5) for blocking the passage opening (4) in the case where the water levels in the water container (8) and in the concave induction pipe (1) are not higher at least than the top end of the passage opening (4); and a closed space (11) formed in the upper part between the water container (8) and the concave induction pipe (1), characterized in that the above members are so constructed that, after spawning in the concave induction pipe (1), hatched mosquito larvae migrate via the passage opening (4) to the space between the water container (8) and the concave induction pipe (1) and, after emerging, the imagoes die in the closed space (11) and accumulated therein.