Abstract: Image processing utilizing numerical calculation of fractional exponential powers of a diagonalizable numerical transform operator for use in an iterative or other larger computational environments. In one implementation, a computation involving a similarity transformation is partitioned so that one part remains fixed and may be reused in subsequent iterations. The numerical transform operator may be a discrete Fourier transform operator, discrete fractional Fourier transform operator, centered discrete fractional Fourier transform operator, and other operators, modeling propagation through physical media. Such iterative environments for these types of numerical calculations are useful in correcting the focus of misfocused images which may originate from optical processes involving light (for example, with a lens or lens system) or from particle beams (for example, in electron microscopy or ion lithography).

Abstract: This invention provides security articles comprising fibers, threads and fiber sections (“dots”) possessing multiple verification characteristics. The fibers possess unique and difficulty duplicated combinations of complex cross-sections, components, and multiple luminescent responses. The many verifiable characteristics of the security fibers, threads and dots provide high levels of protection against fraudulent duplication of articles in which they are incorporated. The manifold security features provide means of tailoring specific identity characteristics for specific use and users.

Abstract: The present invention provides a single-layer type electrophotosensitive material comprising a conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer formed on the conductive substrate, wherein the photosensitive layer contains a phthalocyanine compound as an electric charge generating material, a hole transferring material and an electron transferring material in a binder resin, and that a difference in absolute value between a plus polarity sensitivity and a minus polarity sensitivity measured under the conditions of an exposure wavelength of 780 nm and an exposure energy of 1.0 ?J/cm2 is not more than 500 312 V, and a reversal development type digital image forming apparatus using the electrophotosensitive material, which does not include a charge neutralizing step.

Abstract: The invention disclosed in this patent document relates to transmembrane receptors, more particularly to endogenous, human orphan G protein-coupled receptors.

Abstract: The present invention relates to improved methods for the production, isolation and purification of epothilone B. These methods include, for example, a fermentation process for the production of epothilone B, isolation via adsorption onto a resin, and subsequent purification.

Abstract: Generally, this invention relates to the development of field monitoring methodology for new substances and sensing chemical warfare agents (CWAs) and terrorist substances. It also relates to a portable test kit which may be utilized to measure concentrations of halogenated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the field. Specifically it relates to systems for reliably field sensing the potential presence of such items while also distinguishing them from other elements potentially present. It also relates to overall systems and processes for sensing, reacting, and responding to an indicated presence of such substance, including modifications of existing halogenated sensors and arrayed sensing systems and methods.

Abstract: A decapsulation apparatus 100 has a laser 8 that removes plastic encapsulant from a device 24. Chamber 20 is sealed. Exhaust port 9 removes debris and fumes. The device 24 is positioned and scanned using an X, Y table 2. A hinged end 4 rotates the device to an acute angle of incidence with respect to a laser 8. Endpoint detector 10 senses the exposed integrated circuit and moves or shuts down the laser 8.

Abstract: An apparatus and procedures for percutaneous placement of surgical implants and instruments such as, for example, screws, rods, wires and plates into various body parts using image guided surgery. The invention includes an apparatus for use with a surgical navigation system, an attaching device rigidly connected to a body part, such as the spinous process of a vertebrae, with an identification superstructure rigidly but removably connected to the attaching device. This identification superstructure, for example, is a reference arc and fiducial array which accomplishes the function of identifying the location of the superstructure, and, therefore, the body part to which it is fixed, during imaging by CAT scan or MRI, and later during medical procedures.

Abstract: A method for controlling one or more computer room air conditioning (CRAC) units for energy efficient operation, in which, the temperature of the air returned (Trat) into the one or more CRAC units and the temperature of the air supplied (Tsat) by the one or more CRAC units is detected. The caloric heat transfer level (Q) is calculated based upon the Trat and the Tsat and it is determined whether the Q is within a predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range. In addition, at least one operation of the one or more CRAC units is reduced in response to the Q being within the predetermined setpoint caloric heat transfer range to thereby increase the efficiencies of the one or more CRAC units.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for diagnosing, remedying and blocking harmful information including computer viruses online over a computer network via which a web server and a client are linked to each other. The method includes, on a computer network through which a web server and a client system are linked to each other, the web server receiving a connection request from the client system over the computer network. Then, the web server transmits a harmful information blocking code module to the client system. Once the transmission of the harmful information blocking code module is completed the harmful information blocking code module automatically runs on the client system to block in real time harmful information including computer viruses.

Abstract: A hunting and sporting garment that conceals a user's face includes a hood, a face covering, an attachment between the face covering and the hood, and at least one pocket and/or collar to store the face covering and hood. The garment further includes a lower portion having a crotch opening between the leg portions conforming to the contour of the crotch seam, wherein the crotch opening is capable of being closed.

Abstract: A nursing apron for a breastfeeding mother is disclosed. The apron comprises a blanket of sufficiently large size to wrap around an upper portion of the mother's torso, and fixing means arranged so as to retain the blanket around the mother's torso. The fixing means includes first fixing means attached to the blanket at a first end portion of the blanket, and second fixing means attached to the blanket at a second end portion of the blanket. The locations of the first and second fixing means is such that the first and second ends overlap to a sufficient degree during use that the mother's breasts are not exposed whilst the mother is breastfeeding a baby.

Abstract: A batting glove particularly for baseball and softball includes padding along the palmar side of at least the proximal ends of the metacarpals of the ring finger and the small finger. Padding is absent over the hook of the hamate and preferably the carpometacarpal joints of the ring finger and the small finger.

Abstract: A glove is provided to flex as the user clinches his fist. The glove is provided with expandable zones on both sides of the top portion of the glove. Two expandable zones are positioned over the metacarpalphalangeal joints of the one small finger and the index finger. A third expandable zone is positioned to overly the center axis of rotation of the metacarpalphalangeal joints of the long finger and the ring finger. Cooperating relationship between the three expandable zones allow for expansion of the glove, both longitudinally and laterally, over the metacarpalphalangeal joints of the hand.

Abstract: A finger protecting device for protecting at least one finger against chafing resulting from rubbing against the shaft when practicing a sport with the shaft, such as golfing. The device comprises a sleeve for the thumb. The sleeve has front and rear surfaces, the front surface being positioned before a digital area of the thumb for acting as a barrier between the thumb and the shaft. The sleeve has first and second opposite ends, the second end being open-ended for allowing the thumb to be inserted into the sleeve. The device comprises fastening means connected to the sleeve for selectively adjusting and fastening the sleeve onto the thumb. The device may comprise extension portions, as well as additional sleeves for other fingers of the hand, the other sleeves exposing the fingertips of the fingers to enable a better feel for the shaft.

Abstract: A head covering bonnet with an opening for the head and an elastic spandex band below the opening for holding the bonnet to the head. The spandex band is of a width so as not to apply high localized pressure on the hair, and spandex is not rough or abrasive when stretched, unlike typical elastic material which becomes rough and possibly abrasive to hair when the elastic is stretched.

Abstract: A waistband extender comprises a plurality of joined loops, at least a portion of at least one of the loops being substantially composed of a material having elastic properties. At least one loop, an engaging loop, is configured to engage a waistband button. A remaining portion of the waistband extender is configured to thread through the buttonhole with which the button mates. A second loop within the remaining portion of the waistband extender engages the button, thereby securing the waistband's button/buttonhole combination, while providing a greater separation than the button/buttonhole combination alone normally would provide.

Abstract: A belt and garment fasten around a user's waist to support the garment at a selected waistline position. The belt has first and second arches with each arch having a front end a rear end fastened to the belt. The front end of each arch is located so it fastens to the belt adjacent the user's crotch during use. The rear end of each arch is located so it fastens to the belt at or before the hips of the user during use. Two first fasteners are connected to each of the arches adjacent a top of the arch. The garment has two second fasteners connected to a waistband of the garment. The second fasteners are located to releasably engage the first fasteners to fasten the arch to the garment so the arches hold the waistline of the garment above the belt. The garment covers the belt and arches. The garment is optionally connected to the belt by a third fastener located between the arches, along the user's back.

Abstract: A weighted belt is provided. The weighted belt comprises a belt body that defines a body pocket; a plurality of weights disposed within the body pocket; a first cinching end that extends from an end of the belt body; and, a second cinching end that extends from an opposite end of the belt body. The first and second cinching ends comprise a suitable dress-belt material disposed on at least a portion of the surface of the belt body sufficient to conceal at least partially the belt body when worn and viewed face on, and are configured for releasable engagement.

Abstract: The invention relates to men's underwear that provides options with respect to waist size and pouch size. The pouch size may vary in order to accommodate males of varying genital sizes. For a given waist size there may be at least two pouch sizes, wherein each pouch size is different from the other. The present invention provides multiple options for pouch size within each waist size. Therefore, rather than being limited to selecting from waist size only, providers and/or user may also select from varying pouch sizes. This effectively increases the number of undergarment options.

Abstract: A chin guard has a shell with a cup suitable for fitting upon a human chin and a resilient layer received within the cup of the shell. The resilient layer has a periphery overlying the outer peripheral edge of the shell. The resilient layer has an interior surface opposite the shell. The interior surface has bumps formed thereon and extending substantially over an entirety of the interior surface. A netting material is affixed to the resilient layer and extends around the bumps.

Abstract: A helmet is provided that includes a shell, an eyeport formed in the shell, a shield on the shell movable between a closed position and an open position, and a lever assembly on the shell. The lever assembly includes a lever and a hub having at least one dowel. The lever assembly is rotatable about an axis of the hub between a home position, a shield cracking position, and a shield restraining position. A motion plate is on the shield and located to cover at least a portion of the hub when the shield is in its closed position. The motion plate is formed with a plurality of surfaces, where one of the surfaces is engaged by the dowel when the shield is closed and the lever assembly is rotated to the shield cracking position to cause the shield to be raised slightly from its closed position to a cracked position.

Abstract: Goggles include a lens frame and connection arms for a wearing belt. The connection arms are provided respectively at right and left parts on a side of a front surface of the lens frame. Each of the connection arms is selectively kept in a state that the arm overlaps and rests on the front surface of the lens frame, or in a state that the arm stays at a position with a space from the front surface of the lens frame after having moved rotationally on its inner end from the front surface of the lens frame outwardly. The goggles provide a preferable fitted comfortability to a wearer's face regardless of whether he uses a helmet or not and regardless of the thickness of the inner liner of the helmet.

Abstract: Disclosed is a protective mask of the kind having particular application for covering the eyes, ears, nose and chin of one playing the game of paintball. The protective mask has a lens that can be quickly and easily removed for replacement as a consequence of paint splatter or cracking such as that caused by the impact thereagainst of a paintball traveling at high speed. The protective mask also has a detachable head strap that is coupled to the lens through the mask. More particularly, a hole formed through an ear covering section of the mask is axially aligned with a hole formed through an ear covering section of the removable lens. One end of the detachable head strap is tied to a first connector. The first connector includes an upstanding locking catch that is moved into the axially aligned holes formed through the mask and the lens.

Abstract: A protective structure for protecting a body from impact includes an inner layer of relatively flexible material, and which has a plurality of spaced-apart openings extending between opposite faces thereof and a corresponding plurality of protective units. Each protective unit includes a thin-wall, collapsible, fluid-tight enclosure with a volume of fluid filling the enclosure and at least one orifice in an enclosure wall that resistively vents fluid from the enclosure at a selected rate in response to an impact on the structure. The plurality of protective units are received in the plurality of openings so that corresponding first segments of the enclosures projecting form one face of the first layer together form a middle layer. Cooperating surfaces on the inner layer and each protective unit retain each protective unit in the corresponding opening in the inner layer. A method of making the protective units is also disclosed.

Abstract: Negative pressure is: (a) applied through a shallow manifold inlet fitted between the rear of a toilet porcelain bowl and hinged seat; (b) created by a remote blower; (c) conveyed via conduit. An adjustable hood in front of the manifold optimizes odor collection. The blower can be located in a housing possessing multiple inlet ports for connection to a plurality of manifolds. The blower can also be used in line with conduit and multiple blowers utilized. A sensor port in a manifold extension facilitates empirical verification of air flow. Electrical supply to the blower can be controlled by a light switch: (a) independently; or with: (b) a vent that can be exhausted through the same conduit, or (c) a humidity blower. Plastic and metal conduit of differing cross section are joined with an adapter and either connected to a blower housing inlet port. PVC conduit is disposed within wall frames hung from the sill.

Abstract: A device for spraying an inner surface of a toilet bowl with a cleaning and/or deodorizing chemical is disclosed. The device includes a container for the chemical, a spray nozzle through which the chemical can be sprayed laterally around a perimeter of the nozzle, a conduit in fluid communication with the container and the spray nozzle, fluid delivery means for delivering chemical from the container through the conduit and to the spray nozzle, and means for attaching the spray nozzle near a rim of the toilet bowl. The spray nozzle of the automatic or manual toilet bowl cleaning device can operate such that the chemical is applied to the entire circumference of the inner surface of the toilet bowl whereby the entire toilet bowl is cleaned around the inner circumference of the toilet bowl.

Abstract: A canister type flush valve has an upright cup-shaped hollow float working under buoyancy forces without a captured air volume that controls the valve during a flush cycle. Hooded bleed openings at a bottom wall of the float can be sized and numbered to selectively control the closuring timing of the valve. Baffles of the hood bleed openings redirect water bleeding into the float to prevent the water from spraying up against the top of the tank. The geometry of a seal retaining groove is designed to reduce leakage at the float/seal interface. For example, the groove has an annular wall with a compound profile forming a non-cylindrical, preferably serpentine, seal contact area. The seal is backed by a slotted flange located just above the retaining groove.

Abstract: A soaking basin is provided having a disposable liner and a base unit. The liner defines an air chamber and a plurality of apertures defined in a floor of the liner. The base unit includes an air blower system connected to the liner such that air is forced out the apertures of the liner into the liquid. The liner can further include a water-soluble coating of soaking additives adhered thereto. In this manner, the liner and the base unit cooperatively provide a therapeutic soak, even in a salon setting, without sacrificing hygienic practices. Moreover, the basin is cost-effective to manufacture and use.

Abstract: A folding hammock has a frame formed of seven segments including elongated members connected in swivel connection to each other. The frame includes a front segment, a rear segment, a middle segment formed between the front segment and the rear segment and a pair of right segments and a pair of left segments. The pair of right segments and the pair of left segments join the front segment, the rear segment and the middle segment together. The pair of right segments includes a rear right segment and a rear left segment. The pair of left segments includes a rear left segment and a front left segment. Each segment is made of a crossing scissor structure having ‘x’ shaped configuration. A pair of front inside connection members is attached to a pair of front corner posts. The pair of front corner posts defines the bounds of the front segment.

Abstract: A cross bar system for supporting a bed having a pair of bed rails is disclosed in which the cross bar system comprises a cross bar member, a bracket member for attachment to one of the bed rails with the bracket member for receiving the cross bar member, and a leg member for attachment to the cross bar member for supporting the cross bar member.

Abstract: A system and procedure for preventing and enhancing healing of Decubiti ulcers on patients, comprising the steps of placing the patient on a web adapted to support the patient, the web having a patient contacting portion and a non-patient contacting portion, the web having an opening through the web, positioned so that the opening surrounds the ulcer and prevents contact of the web with the ulcer, and using a web support system adapted to support the web by attachment only to the non-patient contacting portion, to solely support the web with a patient on it. The procedure may also include a step wherein a rocking device is used that acts through the web support system to selectively tilt the web and thereby to tilt the patient on the patient contact portion of the web, so that the pressure between the patient and the web is cyclically altered.

Abstract: A bed assembly (10) includes a frame (22) which supports four curved mattress support panels (50-56) which are able to move with pivoting of the various parts of the frame (22). The curved panels (50-56) better conform to a patient's body shape and provide an effective lengthening of the mattress support (50-56), particularly when the back rest (30, 50) is raised to a sitting position. The support panels (50-56) are located below the pivot points of the frame (22), which further enhances the lengthening effect. The assembly also includes first and second patient retention panels (80, 82) with complementary edges (92, 94) which can slide over one another. A key pad unit (100) protrudes from the retention panel (80) at a convenient patient position and can be gripped by a patient's hand.

Abstract: An infant hugging and comforting device including the combination of a cloth hugging device and a vibrating device. Preferably, the cloth hugging device has adjustable arm portions to accommodate different size infants, and allow the device to be fitted to a particular infant. Further, the vibrating device is preferably a separate device removably attached to the soft cloth hugging device.

Abstract: An individual crib rail bumper providing protective padding in and around a child's crib to increase bodily protection and to provide additional comfort, support, and aesthetic design. An individual crib rail bumper is a long, cushioned, 2-sided, rectangular shaped soft protective material that securely wraps 360 degrees around each individual crib rail by use of strategically placed fasteners. A set of individual crib bumpers offers different fabric choices on each side and is designed to accommodate any size crib rail. They can easily be applied and are simple to remove for washing. The individual vertical crib bumpers also provide critical safety features that resolve long outstanding safety hazards of the standard and widely used conventional crib bumper.

Abstract: The portable collapsible baby mattress apparatus provides multiple caregiving functions for an infant. The inflatable mattresses pads are selectively fastened to provide a horizontal mattress assembly, and selectively disassembled for portability and compact state. Functions include simulation of a caregivers heartbeat and breathing, entertainment and education for an infant via the view screen and speaker/mic, infant monitoring with alarm, and height and swivel adjustment of the view screen.

Abstract: A tactical footbridge comprises two or more bridge segments and one or more pivotal connection assemblies. The one or more pivotal connection assemblies engage two of the at two or more bridge segments. Each pivotal connection assembly comprises a first member, a second member, a first axial connector, and a second axial connector. The first member engages a first of the two bridge segments. The first member has a pivot hole and a bridge hole. The second member engages a second of the two bridge segments. The second member also has a pivot hole and a bridge hole. The first axial connector selectively extends through the pivot holes of the first and second members to pivotally connect the two bridge segments such that the connected bridge segments selectively pivot between a collapsed position in which the connected bridge segments are proximal to one another, and a bridge position in which the connected bridge segments are in an expanded angularly-disposed relationship with one another.

Abstract: This relates generally to devices used in the removal of excess spray-applied insulation from building components, and more particularly to an improved rotary scrubber that is readily extendable for reaching areas of extended elevation. To facilitate the scrubbing of insulation from areas of extended elevation, one embodiment of the scrubber has an adjustable handle assembly connected to the housing. The adjustable handle assembly preferably comprises a receiver connected to the housing and an extension and a support handle adjustably connected with the receiver. The extension preferably defines an extension handle, with the support handle adjustably connected with the receiver forward of the extension handle when the extension is adjustably connected with the receiver. In other embodiments, the scrubber further comprises at least one extender optionally removably connectable between the scrubber's housing and the framework.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the field of tooth cleaning. According to the present invention a tooth cleaning device is provided, adapted to be introduced into the mouth. The tooth cleaning device can be engaged by the tongue, and this allows it to be displaced all around the mouth by the tongue, thus performing a cleaning process.

Abstract: A convertible implement is provided having a first implement with a first operable head connected to a first handle. The first implement is removably connected to a second implement having a second operable head connected to a second handle.

Abstract: An adjoined flexible two-piece swivel joint type floor cleaning attachment in which either upper or lower and/or both sections are made from a unitary flexible elastomer material allowing for a unitary quick release clamp mechanism that adjoins to a cleaning head apparatuses. The combination of the quick release unitary flexible clamp mechanism adjoined to a jam/stop swivel mechanism allows for small cleaning devices, such as scrub brushes, wall washers, abrasive pad holders, etc. to be easily engaged and disengaged allowing the cleaning device to also be used as a hand held device. Furthermore, swivel type floor cleaning devices will no longer need their own swivel type connector affixed onto the cleaning head thus making the cleaning products more cost efficient.

Abstract: An applicator brush for applying a material to a surface is provided having a brush head of a width X arranged along a central axis. The brush head includes a first set of bristles having proximal base ends attached to a ferrule and distal ends defining a first edge situated in a substantially straight first plane perpendicular to the central axis. The first set of bristles have a first width Y, wherein Y<X. A second set of bristles is provided having proximal ends attached to the ferrule and distal ends defining a second edge situated in a second plane having a second width (X-Y). A length of each bristle in the first and second sets is defined as a distance between its proximal attachment point and its distal end.

Abstract: An edgeless mop utilizing a relatively narrow diameter, knit tubular material to form the strands of a mop head wherein the tubular material incorporates an arrangement of elongate depressed channels and raised profile segments extending along its surface in the length direction. This construction increases the overall fluid retaining or sorbency capacity of the mop even while lowering the overall mass of the mop head.

Abstract: Disclosed is a cleaning device having a cleaning head to which a cleaning sheet is to be attached. The cleaning head has a pad whose bottom face functions as a cleaning part. The cleaning part has a recess, side contact parts on both sides of the recess and a rear contact part behind the recess. When a front portion of the cleaning head is pressed against a floor surface by a pushing force acting on the shaft, the recess prevents excessive frictional resistance. In addition, the cleaning sheet can be efficiently exploited because dirt can be collected also in the center of the cleaning part.

Abstract: An opposite type wiper apparatus which can prevent interference of each wiper blade even if reference position data is lost. When at least one of reference position data memory sections is in abnormal condition, angle range calculation sections correct operation angle ranges of a DR-side and an AS-side wiper motor so as to shift an upper and a lower reversal positions of a DR-side and an AS-side wiper blade toward storage positions, and so as to make a correction value from the AS-side angle range calculation section larger than a correction value from the DR-side angle range calculation section. Therefore, even when reference position data individually memorized in reference position data memory sections are lost, the DR-side and the AS-side wiper blades can be prevented from interfering with each other.

Abstract: In order to ensure, when the drive (1) is in a non-operating state, a self-locking that counters a change in position of the wiper (5), an electronically implemented self-locking is provided. To this end, the controller (S) of the wiper system monitors the wiper (5) during the non-operating state of the drive (1) by evaluating the position sensor signals for a change in position and, in response to the position monitoring, activates the drive (1) in order to return the wiper (5) into a set position (U, P).

Abstract: A backdoor apparatus includes a backdoor panel, a rear spoiler and a wiper mechanism. The wiper mechanism includes a motor assembly, a wiper arm and a wiper blade. A motor installation recess is formed in a top portion of the backdoor panel to receive the motor assembly. The motor assembly includes a cover, which covers a portion of a motor, which is exposed from the rear spoiler. The cover has a flange, which covers a top end part of the glass. The cover, which includes the flange, does not contact the glass.

Abstract: Provided is an apparatus for cleaning a rubbing-cloth. The apparatus includes a rubbing-cloth fixing unit, a pile removing head, and a transferring unit. The rubbing-cloth fixing unit is fixed to a base body and fixes a rubbing-cloth that is substantially unfolded. The pile removing head is disposed on the rubbing-cloth fixing unit and sucks and removes the piles attached onto the rubbing-cloth. The transferring unit is fixed to the base body and transfers the pile removing head along an upper surface of the rubbing-cloth with respect to the rubbing-cloth fixing unit. Accordingly, particles that are generated when a rubbing-cloth is cut out from a fabric are quickly removed from the rubbing-cloth, so that scratches may be prevented from being generated on an alignment film.

Abstract: A steam cleaning apparatus includes water and wax containers to supply water and wax, a pump to discharge a mixture of water and wax, a combustion chamber to receive the discharged mixture in an internal pipe and to spray the mixture through a nozzle such that the mixture can be discharged along the pipe, a burner to heat the pipe of the combustion chamber with a fuel from a fuel container to convert the mixture into steam having high temperature and high pressure, a steam gun to discharge the high temperature and pressure steam from the combustion chamber to an outside, and a controller to control the water container, wax container, pump, combustion chamber, fuel container, and burner and to allow the mixture to be discharged to the outside after being converted to the high temperature and pressure steam. A method of driving the apparatus is also provided.

Abstract: A surface treating head assembly for an appliance such as a vacuum cleaner includes a head and a drivable agitator in the form of a brush bar, rotatably housed in a housing. A motor is arranged to drive a mechanism, such as cams arranged to adjust the position of the brush bar with respect to the housing. An electro-mechanical feedback arrangement, which may include an actuator, is arranged to bear against microswitches to control operation of the motor. Different faces of the actuator are arranged to act against different ones of the microswitches in accordance with different positions of the brush bar. The height of the brush bar is selectively controllable between the predetermined positions, such that the depth of penetration of the bristles of the brush bar may be optimized for different types of carpet.