Abstract: A ball joint 10 includes a first member 12 having a ball section 14 and a second member 15 having a socket 16. Ball section 14 is accommodated and supported inside socket 16. A pair of dies 20, 30 sandwich a wall 18 surrounding an opening 17 of the socket 16, and are configured to approach each other gradually, utilizing small repetitive vibrations that include an approaching and separating action, thereby intermittently pressing the wall in an inward radial direction. During each interval of the intermittent pressing action, a supporting and rotating device 40 rotates socket 16 (second member 15) in small increments about a central axis C2 of socket 16. Consequently, dies 20 and 30 successively press against a multitude of points on the circumference of the outer surface of wall 18 of the socket, thereby bending wall 18 inward so as to reduce the diameter thereof.

Abstract: A shaving system comprises a bifurcated razor handle (1,90) comprising a unitary, two-shot plastics moulding having a pair of hinges (4) with elastomeric springs (11) joined by a cartridge mounting portion (30,91) which receives the bottom side of a generally flat, multi-blade cartridge (60) in fixed, snap-fit relation. The cartridge is retained in a dispenser (80) beneath a resilient leaf (84) and pressed onto the mounting portion along an engagement axis E normal to the shaving plane, the leaf being received in a recess (48) between the mounting portion and the cartridge. The cartridge is then retracted from the dispenser along a retraction axis R generally parallel with the shaving plane. The mounting portion includes digit-receiving regions 40 for pressing the mounting portion onto the cartridge, an ejection element (41,141) for disengaging the cartridge from the handle, and an elastomeric skin-engaging platform (51) arranged in advance of the shaving plane.

Abstract: The invention relates to a pipe disconnecting device, comprising a disconnecting device, which has a rotary body. The rotary body comprises a tool carrier for a disconnecting tool. A protrusion projects transversely to the rotational axis of the rotary body away from the rotary body or away from the tool carrier. At least one handle is attached to the protrusion, the handle extending across a region of the surface of the protrusion and forming a reach-through opening between the handle and the surface of the protrusion for a hand reaching for the handle.

Abstract: A household press for material that is to be pressed, comprising a nut and a screw. The nut has a head part in the shape of a hollow cylinder. One end of the nut part is delimited by a base and an opposite end continues as a coaxially extending half shell having an internal thread provided with an undercut. The screw has a base at one end and a threaded part delimited by the base, with a thread of the threaded part having an undercut. A grip part adjoins the threaded part remote from the screw base. The threaded part can be placed into the thread of the nut to form a receiving chamber between the bases. The receiving chamber is closed down or shortened upon rotation of the nut and screw relative to one another.

Abstract: A blade assembly of a hedge trimmer (16) includes at least one cutting blade (1, 1?) having cutting teeth (2, 3). At least one portion of the cutting teeth (2) is configured as protective teeth (7) which, referred to the cutting blade axis (4), has an inner cutting region (8) and from which an outer protective finger (9) extends. The protective tooth (7) is, referred to its tooth axis (5), configured unsymmetrically. The protective tooth has a cutting side (10) and an opposite-lying holding side (11) and a cutting edge (12) in the cutting region (8) on the cutting side (10) and a holding edge (13) on the holding side (11). The protective finger (9) has a forward edge (14) on the cutting side (10) and a rearward edge (15) on the holding side (11). Starting from the blade axis (4), the forward edge (14) is inclined to the tooth axis (5) and the rearward edge (15), starting from the blade axis (4), is inclined away from the tooth axis (5).

Abstract: This invention relates to a dual-blade cutting device used for cutting strips from films and sheets. Particularly, in the cutting device of the invention, the blades are not exposed to the outside during the non-use position. Also, in the use position, the exposure is minimal to the operator. Therefore, using the cutting device of the invention renders the operation safe for the cutting operator.

Abstract: An ice-axe gripping shaft comprising a grip made from plastic material, equipped with a stop for the user's hand to rest against, and an intermediate finger brace for positioning the user's finger, Adjustment means of the finger brace comprise a locking lever articulated on the finger brace, and a plurality of notches staggered at regular intervals along a positioning zone to form a rack. The locking lever is equipped with a cam designed to engage in the locked position in one of the notches to immobilize the finger brace in a predefined adjustment position.

Abstract: A level tool has a body including a vial opening, a vial positioned at least partially within the vial opening, a passageway formed in the body such that the passageway intersects the vial opening and is axially aligned with the vial, and a plug positioned within the passageway to secure the vial, the plug being pre-formed at one end thereof to generally conform to a cross-sectional profile of a wall of the body.

Abstract: A method is disclosed which is suitable for the calibration of a measuring table (20) of a coordinate measuring machine (1). For this purpose, a mask (2) is deposited in a three-point support of the measuring table (20), wherein the mask (2) used for the calibration of the measuring table (20) is a mask (2), which is used for the semiconductor production. The measurement of positions of a plurality of different structures (3) which are arranged in a distributed manner on the mask (2) is carried out. The structures (3) are available in an initial orientation on the mask (2). The mask (2) is rotated and the position of the structures (3) is determined in the rotated orientation. Afterwards, the mask (2) is shifted and the position of the structures (3) is also determined. A total correction function for eliminating coordinate-dependant measuring errors is determined, wherein the total correction function has a first correction function and a second correction function.

Abstract: A method for integrating a measurement device for use in measuring a machine component includes providing a coordinate measuring device, such as a coordinate measuring machine (CMM), and integrating with a plurality of nondestructive examination (NDE) capabilities with a plurality of coordinate measuring device capabilities to form an inspection probe. The method further includes integrating the NDE inspection probe with the coordinate measuring device such that the inspection probe substantially simultaneously measures a plurality of NDE measurements and external/internal geometry and defects of machine component, which are linked to actual component dimensional information provided by CMM. The inspection data can be simultaneously linked to and/or displayed together with a CAD model to enable a direct comparison between the inspection data and the nominal requirements carried on the CAD model.

Abstract: A multifunctional airway evaluator for oratracheal intubation includes first and second connected elongated arms, movable relative to each other about a pivot axis, a planar plate connected to the first arm and extending upwardly therefrom, and a gravity-operated angular indicator attached to the planar plate. The plate includes a distance scale on its front face, and the distance scale includes a plurality of spaced apart grade lines aligned radially with the pivotal axis and distance parameters associated with the grade lines, each of the distance parameters indicating a distance between the distal ends of the first and second arms when the arms are in a relative position. The gravity-operated angular indicator includes an axial pin disposed perpendicular to the planar plate, a rotating disk pivotally attached to and rotatable around the axial pin by gravity, and one or more angular measurement marker provided adjacent the rotating disk.

Abstract: A contour measuring device includes a guide rail, a slidable assembly, and a measuring probe. The slidable assembly is slidably engaged with the guide rail. The slidable assembly includes a weight adjusting unit connected to the slidable assembly. At least part of the weight adjusting unit is detachable from the slidable assembly. The measuring probe is fixed on the slidable assembly. A weight of the slidable assembly provides a measuring force and a weight of the weight adjusting unit is adjustable to adjust a value of the measuring force.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of determining the presence of a drying rack based on image data of the laundry located in a treating chamber of a laundry treating appliance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a laundry treating appliance and method for controlling the operation of the laundry treating appliance by determining the surface area of the laundry based on image data of the laundry.

Abstract: A system for dehumidifying and drying a powdered or granular material having a drying hopper, a dehumidifying unit, and a circulation route having a processing gas supply route and a processing gas dehumidifying route that interconnect the drying hopper and the dehumidifying unit to allow processing gas to circulate is proposed. The system repeatedly supplies and circulates the processing gas in the circulation route. The processing gas supply route and the processing gas dehumidifying route are interconnected by a bypass route having a regulation valve. A temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of processing gas exhausted from the drying hopper is installed in the processing gas dehumidifying route. The system further has a control means for controlling opening or closing of the regulation valve, provided in the bypass route, based on a temperature detection signal detected by the temperature sensor.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a method of drying a tubular string to prevent bedwrap corrosion. In one embodiment, a method of drying a tubular string includes deploying a first bypass pig in the tubular string. The method further includes injecting propellant behind the first bypass pig, thereby driving the first bypass pig through the tubular string. A portion of the propellant bypasses the first bypass pig, thereby drying an inner surface of the tubular string.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of operating a laundry treating appliance having a rotatable drum defining a laundry treating chamber. The laundry in the laundry treating chamber may be imaged and a fluffing state of the laundry determined based on the imaging of the laundry. The operation of the laundry treating appliance may be based on the determined fluffing state.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of determining a fluffing state of laundry based on a determined temperature indicative of the surface of the laundry.

Abstract: A laundry treating appliance and method for controlling the operation of a laundry treating appliance comprising a treating chamber by determining the presence of a bulky laundry item based on image data of the laundry.

Abstract: A laundry treating appliance having a rotatable drum defining a laundry treating chamber, where the laundry in the laundry treating chamber may be imaged and a motion condition of the laundry determined based on the imaging of the laundry. The operation of the laundry treating appliance may be based on the determined motion condition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a foot drying apparatus comprising: a platform; a plurality of air blowers positioned at one end of the platform; flexible arms, where the flexible arms support the air blowers and extend from one end of the platform; and a power supply. The flexible arms include a conduit for the flow of forced air. The plurality of air blowers may direct either hot or room temperature air onto the platform to flow onto someone's feet that are positioned on the platform. The flexible arms enable a user to adjust the direction of the forced airflow as desired.

Abstract: Insoles with sock liners are provided for shoes. An insole in accordance with the invention is most useful in a shoe that has a transparent portion in its sole, although it is not required to be used in that type of shoe. The insole is formed of at least two portions a window and a sock liner. In some embodiments the sock liner also acts as an insole board. In other embodiments the sock liner is in addition to the insole board.

Abstract: An article of footwear including an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper and including a support assembly having an upper member and a lower member spaced from the upper member. A first layer is positioned beneath and in contact with the upper member and has a wave shaped profile with a plurality of first wave crests and first wave troughs. A second layer is positioned above the lower member and has a wave shaped profile with a plurality of second wave crests and second wave troughs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a shoe bottom moulded from one piece, which is provided with a first and second chamber (3, 30), which do not communicate, which respectively house elastically flexible protuberances (2, 40), which are able to generate both an “anti-shock” action for the foot and a pumping action to create forced air ventilation inside the shoe.

Abstract: A triple density replacement insole which has at least two coextensive layers of different densities which are adjacent one another and extending the length of the insole comprising a first top cloth layer and a second gel layer and a third density layer comprising a stability cradle adjacent said gel layer is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the stability cradle, which extends from the arch area to the heel area and secures to the gel layer, defines a first metatarsal region gap which exposes the gel layer and a second heel region gap which exposes the gel layer, In the preferred embodiment, a heel cushion is positioned in the second heel region gap adjacent to said gel layer and is secured to said gel layer exposed in that region and a metatarsal arch support is integrally formed in the first metatarsal region gap area from the first top cloth and second gel layer.

Abstract: A shoe having a lace fitting structure of the present invention includes, as its primary components, a first side panel 51 extending in an upward or diagonally upward direction along a medial side surface in a space inside a main upper 2M so as to wrap around the medial side surface of the foot, and a second side panel 52 extending in an upward or diagonally upward direction along a lateral side surface in the space inside the main upper so as to wrap around the lateral side surface of the foot, and a third eyelet 23 provided at a tip of each of the first and second side panels 51 and 52, shoelace means passing through and engaging with the third eyelets.

Abstract: An anti-static sole is provided with a pad body between a midsole and an insole. In the pad body is provided a chip resistor. The chip resistor includes a connecting pin at each of two opposite ends thereof. The two connecting pins of the chip resistor are electrically connected to the insole and the midsole, respectively. Since the chip resistor has no exposed wires, damage to the wires is avoided. Further, the anti-static effect can be improved since the resistance of the chip resistor is stable.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method of clearing an accumulation of matter from a surface is provided. The apparatus includes a collecting section, a casting section, and a shifting section. The shifting section is at least one of a diverting section, a sweeping section, and an air blowing section. The collecting section includes a blade and is in matter communication with the casting section. The diverting section includes an auxiliary blade oriented at an angle about an axis transverse to a direction of travel. The sweeping section includes a rotatable broom with bristles. The air blowing section is configured to blow air in a predetermined direction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cutting tooth for a trench wall cutter having a tongue-shaped tooth base for reception in a cutting wheel, whereby the tongue-shaped tooth base has a circumferentially surrounding holding groove, and at least one cut-ter which is arranged at the head-side of the tooth base. Provision is made for the cutting tooth with the tooth base and the cutter to be designed mirror-symmetrically to a plane of symmetry so that at least two opposite arranged cutters are present on the tooth base.

Abstract: The invention relates to a steam generating device comprising a steam chamber provided with a hydrophilic coating. The hydrophilic coating comprises an acid phosphate compound and boron, preferably a salt of boron with a metallic element. The coating promotes steaming and is resistant to flaking. The invention also relates to a method of producing the hydrophilic coating in the steam chamber of a steam generating device, and to an iron comprising the steam generating device.

Abstract: A marketing sign is constructed of a sheet material. The sheet material includes a free portion, a base portion and a connecting portion that couples the base portion to the free portion. The base portion includes an engaging piece and a support piece. The engaging piece is coupled to the support piece at a base bend line and configured to engage with a portion of a product display structure having a price holder. The connecting portion is defined between a first connecting bend line spaced apart from a second connecting bend line by a first distance. The first connecting bend line is adjacent the support piece of the base portion and the second connecting bend line is adjacent the free portion. The first distance substantially corresponds with a top edge thickness of the price holder.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electric fireplace flame curtain with fixed simulated charcoal bed comprises a transparent plate, a imaging mechanism and a charcoal bed being disposed on the transparent plate, and a number of fixed light-holding charcoals with plurality of transparent surfaces being disposed on the charcoal bed. The charcoal bed is fixed directly on the transparent plate with imaging mechanism, so the image of charcoal flame after optimization appears on the image screen, which has the best visual effect. The essential effect of the present invention is to solve the monotone flame and poor visual effect of the exiting electric fireplace. Meanwhile, the problems such as constant charcoal flame brightness, lack of reality are solved as well. The present invention could simulate a plurality of independent charcoal burning spots, with various styles. The light-spots of the flame are sparkling intermittently with bright and shade, and the flame is of light-holding effect.

Abstract: The invention relates to a An electric fireplace with a flame curtain comprises a housing, a light source, a flame curtain with integral structure being disposed on the electric fireplace and in front of an electric fireplace flame generator, an imaging mechanism and a charcoal bed being disposed on the flame curtain, and a number of light-holding charcoal with a plurality of transparent surfaces being disposed on the charcoal bed. The essential effect of the present invention is to solve the problems of constant charcoal flame brightness, the lacking of reality and the bad charcoal flame simulation effect in conventional electric fireplaces. Meanwhile, the problems of constant charcoal flame shape, dull appearance and poor visual effect in conventional electric fireplace are solved as well.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an electric fireplace flame curtain with flexible simulated charcoal bed, the flame curtain is a structure of vessel, comprises a front wall and a rear wall with transparent structure, an imaging mechanism disposed on the front wall of the vessel, a number of movable light-holding charcoals with a plurality of transparent surfaces disposed in the vessel. The essential effect of the present invention is to solve the monotone flame, dull appearance and poor visual effect of the exiting electric fireplace. Meanwhile, the problems such as constant charcoal flame brightness, lack of reality, bad simulative effect are solved as well. The present invention could simulate a plurality of independent charcoal burning spots, with various styles. The light-spots of the flame are sparkling intermittently with bright and shade, and the flame is of light-holding effect. The visual effect and the authenticity are both perfect.

Abstract: Sign display devices are described herein. The sign display devices comprise panel assemblies for attaching to beams and attachment assemblies for attaching to signs. The panel assemblies include a front panel, two side panels, and, optionally, rear panels. The attachment assemblies include various combinations of clip assemblies, C-channel assemblies, and extension assemblies. The display device can be used to display signs in retail establishments to advertise the goods situated on shelving units.

Abstract: A hanging display tag for supporting a product, such as a flexible hose, includes a substantially planar body. A first opening formed in the body can extend over a horizontally extending bar of a point of sale product display area, to suspend the tag therefrom. A second opening formed in the body can retain a product such as flexible hose. The second opening includes a central opening, first slots extending from the central opening, and second slots extending from the first slots.

Abstract: Corner mounts for decoratively releasably retaining and displaying a photo or other sheet provided with and area of adhesive on bottom of mount and top of mount. Each mount includes a top piece and a bottom piece, joined at peripheral edges forming a pocket. Adhesive is covered and protected by a sheet of protective adhesive release paper.

Abstract: A device and method for recovering articles inadvertently submerged in a body of water are disclosed. The device comprises a housing attachable to the article, the housing defining a storage chamber with a storage chamber opening at one end. The storage chamber contains a buoyant flotation element held in the storage chamber by a water-activated release mechanism that permits the flotation element to move toward and through the storage chamber opening when the device is submerged in water. The flotation element remains connected to the housing by a connection mechanism. The device housing also may include a biasing mechanism configured to bias the flotation element toward the storage chamber opening. The method includes attaching the housing to the article to be retrieved, having the flotation element release from the housing and float to the surface of the water and following the connection mechanism from the flotation element to the housing.

Abstract: A bipod rifle support which may be incorporated into the stock of the rifle itself or which may be incorporated into a body member which is attachable to the forward end of the rifle stock. Support legs are normally stowed within the elongated bores with the same being removable therefrom and inserted into sockets or bores so that the support legs extend downwardly and outwardly from the stock for engagement with a supporting surface such as the ground or the like. The support legs have elastic cords secured thereto which maintain the support legs in their stowed position and in their rifle support position.

Abstract: The present invention is a modular gunstock utilizing a two-piece mounting structure and a stock module. The structure comprises a weapon attachment, in the case of an AR15/M16 rifle a receiver extension tube, and a sleeve slidable over said attachment and containing mounting structure for the stock module. The disclosed stock module is adjustable for length and features a length pre-set system, a latch with independent dual-pawls and an integrated impact buffer, modular tailpiece, and storage. The sleeve also features a position selectable fixed cheek plate.

Abstract: A Fishing Rod Holder Extension is for insertion into an existing rod holder mounted high on a T-top. Formed in the shape of an inverted U with one leg of the U bing longer then the other leg. The shorter leg of the U is inserted into a fishing rod holder on the T-top so the longer leg will hang down below the existing rod holder where an additional rod holder may be attached in a lower position.

Abstract: A fishing lure includes a leading lure body shaped like a fish; and a trailing lure body shaped like a fish. The leading lure body includes a passage therethrough to enable a fishing line to slidably pass through the passage for connection to the trailing lure body. The trailing lure body includes a front portion and a curved front surface. The front portion of the trailing lure body is weighted such that the trailing lure body tends to sink front portion first in water. The curved front surface of the trailing fishing lure facilitates a swimming motion for the trailing lure body when the trailing lure body moves through water, and tends to lift the trailing lure body if the trailing lure body is pulled through water.

Abstract: A lure of the present invention comprises a lure body formed as a hollow body by using a transparent material, wherein a plurality of long projections are arranged parallel at predetermined intervals on an inner face of the hollow lure body, a first coloring part is provided on one side face of the long projection, and a second coloring part expressing a color different from the first coloring part is provided on the other side face of the long projection. In the lure of the present invention, the first and second coloring parts provided on the inner face of the lure body can be seen through via the lure body. For example, in the case of viewing the lure from one direction, only the color of the first coloring part can be seen through. On the other hand, in the case of viewing the lure from the other direction, only the color of the second coloring part can be seen through.

Abstract: An insect bait station that is pre-filled with a suitable bait, preferably a combination of attractant and toxicant, and is activated for use by a snap-open closure that exposes an entrance/exit disposed on the upper part of the bait station for providing insects with access to the bait. The entrance is disposed above the level of the contained bait and an internal ramp structure allows insects to traverse downward to the bait from the opening, as well as upward to exit the bait station. Providing a ramp structure ensures continual access even as the level of the bait within the station drops, due to evaporation, consumption, spillage etc. By enabling egress from the bait station, the ramp further prevents the accumulation of dead insects inside the bait station, the scent of which, would nullify effectiveness. A cradle is provided for receiving the bait station in two alternate configurations, namely a non-activated and sealed stowed configuration and an activated and un-sealed deployed configuration.

Abstract: A hybrid wax compositions that are suitable for use in manufacturing wax articles (e.g., candles) by compression molding. The combination of a hydrogenated natural oil-based wax and a paraffin wax having a select distribution of hydrocarbon chain lengths provides the hybrid wax compositions with improved properties, such as improved compressive strength and improved de-molding characteristics, for example, as evidenced by reducing scarring and/or flashing. The hybrid wax compositions comprise: (a) a wax comprising a hydrogenated natural oil; and (b) a paraffin wax, wherein the paraffin wax comprises less than about 50% by weight of the hybrid wax composition, and wherein about 52% or greater of hydrocarbons in the paraffin wax have carbon chain lengths ranging from C25 to C29.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of polyamines having at least one terminal secondary or tertiary amine function as a detergent additive for fuels and lubricants; to additive concentrates comprising such polyamines; to fuels and lubricants additized with these polyamines and to processes for their preparation.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improved process for the preparation of biodiesel from crude vegetable oils especially Jatropha (Jatropha curcas) and Karanja (Pongamia pinnata). In the preset invention the bio-active constituents, fatty acids and polar materials are selectively removed from the crude oils by liquid-liquid extraction with a polar solvent into the solvent phase in a non-destructive manner in specially designed equipment either in a batch mode or continuous mode and the oil left as residue is amenable for direct transesterification. After transesterification, the glycerol phase is separated and the crude biodiesel is neutralized, purified by adsorption of undesirable constituents like the residual glycerol, gums, soap, salts etc over a bed of adsorbent like Celite thereby circumventing the conventional water washing step.

Abstract: In the present invention, a fuel composition and a process for making the same are disclosed. Specifically, in the present invention, triglycerides useful for distillate fuels are described along with their method for preparation from Fischer-Tropsch acid by-products and the glycerol by-product from biodiesel generation. By using these two by-product streams, the overall efficiency of both processes is improved and a new source of distillate fuels is created. These triglycerides can be used to improve the lubricity of Fischer-Tropsch derived distillate fuels. In addition, these triglycerides also have low melting points and have viscosities compatible with distillate fuels.

Abstract: The invention provides for a method for producing a 5-carbon alcohol in a genetically modified host cell. In one embodiment, the method comprises culturing a genetically modified host cell which expresses a first enzyme capable of catalyzing the dephosphorylation of an isopentenyl disphosphate (IPP) or dimethylallyl diphosphate (DMAPP), such as a Bacillus subtilis phosphatase (YhfR), under a suitable condition so that 5-carbon alcohol is 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol and/or 3-methyl-3-buten-1-ol is produced. Optionally, the host cell may further comprise a second enzyme capable of reducing a 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol to 3-methyl-butan-1-ol, such as a reductase.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to providing a method of producing synthetic fuels and organic chemicals from atmospheric carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide gas is extracted from the atmosphere, hydrogen gas is obtained by splitting water, a mixture of the carbon dioxide gas and the hydrogen gas (synthesis gas) is generated, and the synthesis gas is converted into synthetic fuels and/or organic products. The present invention is also directed to utilizing a nuclear power reactor to provide power for the method of the present invention.