Abstract: A dual-line spout for maple syrup production is disclosed. The spout has a nose section with an input channel, and an interior chamber having first and second flow paths each fluidly connected to the input channel and to respective first and second output channels. The spout is designed for use with vacuum-based maple syrup productions systems that use a dual-line line system. The dry-line portion of the line system fluidly connects to the first output channel and the wet-line portion of the line system fluidly connected to the second output channel. Example spouts have no chambers, a single chamber or two sub-chambers, to facilitate air-liquid separation. Methods of using the spout in a vacuum-based, dual-line maple syrup production system are also disclosed.

Abstract: A hanging basket for plants, flowers, etc. is provided which may be moved from a collapsed position to an extended position. When in the extended position, the hanging basket may support plants, flowers or the like therein; but which when collapsed, occupies very little space for shipping and storage purposes.

Abstract: A method of containing a floral grouping or potted plant in a sleeve is disclosed. The sleeve has first and second panels, and at least a portion of at least one of the first and second panels is constructed of at least two layers of material. At least a portion of the at least two layers of material may be connected.

Abstract: An auto-irrigation apparatus is provided. A control panel and a water-level indicator light are inserted in a side of an irrigating case. A water pump, a cell box, and a control circuit are inserted in the irrigating case. The control panel, water-level indicator light, cell box, and water pump are coupled to the control circuit. A solar panel is embedded in each of two cover panels. Each of the two cover panels are mounted on opposite sides of the irrigating case. The embedded solar panels are coupled to the cell box. A water conduit adapter is connected to an outlet of the water pump. A planter box is placed in the irrigating case above a built-in water reservoir so that the water conduit adapter passes through an aperture in the planter box. Then, the water conduit adapter is connected to a spray pipe positioned above the planter box.

Abstract: A fuel supply system for supplying pulverized feedstock to a gasifier includes a feedstock storage apparatus for storing pulverized feedstock. The feedstock storage apparatus operates at a first pressure. The fuel supply system also includes a mechanical conveyance apparatus linking the feedstock storage apparatus to a fuel distribution apparatus. The mechanical conveyance apparatus is operable to continuously convey the pulverized feedstock from the feedstock storage apparatus to the fuel distribution apparatus at a first flow rate. The fuel distribution apparatus operates at a second pressure that is greater than the first pressure. The fuel distribution apparatus includes at least one outlet communicably connected to at least one burner on the gasifier for transferring pulverized feedstock from the fuel distribution apparatus to the at least one burner.

Abstract: With a method and a system for treatment of a hot crude gas generated by an entrained flow gasification system, removal of the compounds that contain sulfur and carbon is supposed to be undertaken in such a manner that hot gas is made available for further use. This is achieved in that a desulfurization (7) follows the gasifier (2), in series, in the flow path of the hot gas, followed by a solid separation (8, 9), whereby behind the solid separation (8, 9), a partial stream (13) of the gas is provided downstream by way of a water quench (14), a Venturi scrubber (15), a crude gas cooler (16), as well as an H2O separation (17) and a compressor (18), the flow path (19) of which is passed back, cooled, into the circuit, behind the gasification (2) and ahead of the desulfurization system.

Abstract: A means for improving prior art combined cycle combustor and/or gasifiers and/or plural thermodynamic cycle gasification systems by introducing and utilizing an auger for the continuous feeding, agitation, tumbling, advancement and discharge of heterogeneous carbonaceous fuel. In addition to the aforementioned improvement, I have included provisions for Fontana's water gas shift reaction utilizing refractory embedded down-tubes that convey steam and oxygen into and through the chambers fluidized bed.

Abstract: A pretreatment process of a biomass feedstock for gasification for the production of syngas. The biomass feed, which is preferably a cellulosic feed, is subjected to a two stage torrefaction that comminutes the biomass and increases its energy density.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for detecting a break-in attempt on an opening (2) moveably mounted relative to a frame (3), characterised in that it comprises a sensor (4) connected to a supply and processing circuit, said sensor (4) including two electrically conductive layers between which an insulating layer is provided, each of the conductive layers being connected to an electric power supply, wherein said sensor (4) is to be inserted between the frame (3) and the opening (2).

Abstract: A housing for protecting a garage door safety beam emitter or receiver from impact and from the elements. The housing has a transverse plane of symmetry such that the same style housing may be used over the emitter and over the receiver, the housings being minor images of each other when installed. The housing includes a flange by which the housing may be attached to a garage door track or to the framework around the garage door. The housing preferably is formed of plastic such that it can be trimmed to accommodate installation, for example, around a foundation and includes a side wall with an aperture through which LED diagnostic lights associated with the emitter or receiver may be viewed.

Abstract: Apparatus and system comprising a release assembly configured to unlock a sliding door panel from left and right sides of the sliding door panel. The left and right sides of the sliding door panel are opposed in the sliding direction.

Abstract: A drive component for a motor vehicle unit, in particular a motor vehicle door unit, especially a closing/opening device (1) in or on a motor vehicle door lock (2), comprising at least one motor (3) and at least one rubber-elastic bearing (4) for fixing the motor (3) on a base (5), wherein the bearing (4) has different spring rates (D1, D2) in the axial direction (A) and/or the radial direction (R).

Abstract: A movement device has a longitudinal translation guide which can be joined to a fixed frame and is suitable for allowing translation of a mobile element along a primary translation axis between a configuration of at least partial superimposition of the mobile element with the frame opening, and at least one configuration of non-alignment with the opening. When the mobile element is in the configuration of superimposition, it can be moved along a secondary movement axis, incident to the primary translation axis, between the configuration of superimposition and a closing configuration where the mobile element is engaged in the frame opening. The secondary trajectory is substantially linear or rectilinear at least in its terminal section towards the frame opening.

Abstract: A protective cover mechanism includes a housing, a protective cover and a latching piece. The housing includes an opening defined therethrough. The latching piece is assembled to the housing adjacent to the opening and comprises two holding arms. One holding arm defines a first locating portion and a second locating portion. A protective cover comprises a hinged post formed thereon, the protective cover is rotatably assembled to the housing by means of the latching piece with the hinged post held between the two holding arms. The protective cover is configured for selectively covering or exposing the opening of the housing as the hinged post is rotated from the first locating portion to the second locating portion.

Abstract: A window opening control assembly that includes a first member for attachment to one of a sash or a window frame. The first member includes a locking assembly. The window opening control assembly further includes a second member for attachment to the other of the sash or the window frame. The second member includes a flexible element that extends to the first member. The flexible element is secured by the locking assembly such that the flexible element is fed from the second member as the second member is moved away from the first member until the flexible element is anchored within the second element and the second element is correspondingly restrained from moving further away from the first member. The locking assembly is selectively unlocked to permit removal of the flexible element from the locking assembly and permit continued movement of the second member away from the first member.

Abstract: A method for forming a borehole enlargement tool that includes providing a steel body structure, forming at least one rib structure from a matrix material and abrasive particles, affixing the at least one rib structure to the body structure, and affixing the steel body structure to an elongated tubular body is disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus and method provides for protecting a downspout elbow or extension of a rain gutter from suffering and inflicting harm. The apparatus has a protective outer surface to guard against one or more sharp edges or surfaces of the downspout elbow or extension from suffering or inflicting harm. Methods of protecting the downspout elbow or extension include at least elastically deforming, sliding, rolling, or inverting a portion or all of the apparatus onto the opening and adjacent portions of the downspout elbow or extension.

Abstract: Self-contained medical care unit consisting of a module forming a container (1) in which there is situated at least one care room (2), the container being equipped with a self-supporting structure and comprising at least one collection of peripheral walls (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d), the care unit comprising means allowing it to be attached removably to a central medical care structure (13), characterized in that, in the attached position, the said module is incorporated into the central structure (13), whereas the module is such that at least some of its peripheral walls are removable to allow access to the space from the central structure (13), and in that the space comprises means (12) of connection to corresponding connections of the central structure (13), allowing the care unit to be connected to all necessary supplies, such as supplies of electricity, oxygen and the like, and in that the module (1) comprises at its lower part rolling and bearing means allowing, on the one hand, the said module to be moved around

Abstract: A pre-cast housing shelter unit includes: a polygonal floor surface; a plurality of pre-cast wall panels arranged in a polygonal shape adjacent the floor surface; a plurality of pre-made connectors positioned between each of the wall panels at corners of the polygonal floor surface, wherein the connectors are attached in place on the floor surface on-site; and at least one ceiling panel attached to the wall panels, wherein the housing shelter is sealed, in which the building structure is configured to support life and provide protection from disasters.

Abstract: A mounting system is provided for supporting equipment such as solar module arrays on a rooftop or other underlying surface. The mounting system includes a pipe, and a grasp section. These couple to a base that is extended into or otherwise integrated with the underlying surface. The pipe may be coupled so as to extend a height from the underlying surface. The grasp section is coupled to a top section of the pipe and is structured to secure to a section of the solar module array when the solar module array is installed on the underlying surface.

Abstract: A paver support system includes an edging rail or bracket that engages an underlayment layer. The paver support system contains a plurality of paving elements within a prescribed area bordered by the edging rail and supported on the underlayment layer. The cooperating underlayment layer and edging rail are self-supporting to maintain the relative spatial relationship of the plurality of paving elements supported thereon.

Abstract: Anchoring systems for use in cavity wall structures having an inner wythe constructed of interengaged composite panels and a veneer outer wythe are disclosed. The wall anchor is disposed within the juncture of the interengaged composite panels and fastened to the frame. The wall anchor maintains a strong interlock with the composite panels and backup wall, maintains insulation integrity and limits thermal transfer, without obstructing the juncture of the composite panels. The anchoring system interlocks with varied veneer ties, allowing vertical and horizontal adjustment for alignment with the bed joints. The anchoring system for composite panels provides an economical, high strength, low weight, insulated backup wall construction for interengagement with a veneer outer wythe.

Abstract: A light control process, a light control system and a building, which are capable of increasing, in a short period of time, the amount of light passing through a multiple sheet including a plurality of transparent sheet layers are provided.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to an apparatus for assisted walking on stairs or other sloped surfaces. The apparatus may also be used for assisted walking on slippery surfaces. The apparatus comprises a fixed support and a moveable support. The fixed support is fixed relative to the stairs or other walking surface, while the movable support is selectively moveable relative to the stairs and fixed support in a direction substantially parallel to an incline of the stairs. The movable support is selectively positionable relative to the fixed support in one of a plurality of closely spaced discrete locking positions in which the movable support can support a personal relative to the stairs.

Abstract: An improved building technique includes setting at least one wall for a building into a final position, and then subsequently match-casting a foundation or floor for the building, the foundation/floor being in contact with the base of the wall and helping to secure the wall.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a floor gland for covering an access hole provided in a raised floor structure to allow cabling to pass through the floor structure. A problem with this arrangement is that cooling air passing underneath the raised floor structure can escape through the access hole. A floor gland is provided to fit into the access hole, the floor gland having sealing means that are secured to a sealing member mounted across the open area of the floor gland at a distance from the edges of the access hole such that the sealing means extend out from the sealing member towards the edges, thereby effectively sealing the access hole to prevent the passage of cooling air.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of building a building having a plurality of levels using. The building includes a plurality of building unit assemblies (2) wherein each building unit assembly is structurally self supporting and has at least one sidewall (4), a floor (8) and a roof (10), the method including the steps of: lifting the building unit assemblies (2) into position in the building so that each level of the building includes a predetermined number of units (2); connecting adjacent units (2) to one another in each level; and connecting units (2) in one level to corresponding units in at least one adjacent level that is vertically above or below the one level. In one form the building unit assembly (2) includes a building unit including two sidewalls (4) and (6) floor (8) and roof (10) with structural frame segments (16, 18, 20, 22) attached thereto.

Abstract: Structures and methods use a high-albedo fabric to cover the surface of building roofs, thereby shielding the roof from solar radiation that would otherwise be absorbed into the roof as heat. The high-albedo fabric may be standard or a modified version of SunTex® 90% woven polyester-polyvinyl fabric. Produced in large sizes, the material may be placed on the roof similar to how wall-to-wall carpet is installed, with bonded seams and cutouts for the vents, stacks, and other roof structures. The high-albedo fabric may be adhered to the roof surface and attached the roof edges with fabric binding clips, thereby ensuring the fabric is resistant to wind damage. The high-albedo fabric may be printed with designs (e.g., shingle or roof tile patterns) that enable the fabric to be applied to existing structures without altering the aesthetic appearance of the roof.

Abstract: A modular stone panel is disclosed. The panel is adapted to be mounted or fastened to a structural wall to provide a stone wall façade therefor. The panel is generally comprised of a shaped backboard and a plurality of stones solidly fastened on a front face thereof. The backboard is adapted to be fastened to the structural wall such that the front face thereof faces away from the wall to provide the stone wall façade. The stones may comprise natural or synthetic molded stones. The backboard may also be ventilated to provide ventilation to the stones fastened thereto. The panels may be fabricated to provide key-cut edges allowing an interlocking of adjacent panels. A method of fabricating such panels is also disclosed.

Abstract: Composite roofing boards and methods for installing a composite roofing board are presented herein. In one embodiment, the roofing board comprises at least nine layers: two outer polymeric layers; two adhesive layers disposed between the two outer polymeric layers; two inner polymeric layers disposed between the two adhesive layers; and a substrate layer disposed between the two inner polymeric layers. A polymeric adhesive, such as an acrylate-polymer adhesive, is preformed on an outer surface of the first and/or second outer polymeric layer. A removable release liner, such as a siliconized polyester film, covers the polymeric adhesive.

Abstract: A building panel structure is disclosed, in which composite building panels are used to form a structure. A composite building panel is disclosed which includes a core and a coating applied over the core. In some embodiments the core consists of a frame and one or more than one insulating structural block. The insulating structural blocks can be encapsulated polystyrene (EPS) foam blocks. In some embodiments the coating includes an inner scratch layer and an outer main brown layer. The inner scratch layer can be formed of at least two layers. The outer main brown layer can include a fiberglass mesh embedded into the outer main brown layer. A method of forming a building panel structure is disclosed which includes forming a core using a frame and one or more than block, applying an inner scratch layer to the core, and applying an outer main brown layer over the inner scratch layer.

Abstract: An architectural unit having an extruded core of wood fiber and a thermoset resin, the extruded core having a central hole coaxial with a major axis of the core and an exterior; a plurality of shaped staves forming a shell, each stave of the plurality of staves disposed about the exterior of the core and parallel to the major axis.

Abstract: A bracket apparatus for an insulated building structure includes: a sheathing mounting element including a mounting surface configured to receive a mechanical fastener; and at least one elongated spacer extending away from the sheathing mounting element by a predetermined stand-off distance, the spacer configured to penetrate fibrous insulation, and defining a contact pattern configured to prevent pivoting motion of the spacer relative to a planar surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a set of panels, preferably of floor panels, consisting of a first panel and at least a second panel with, in each case, a top side and an underside, wherein the first panel comprises at an edge a first retaining profile with a hook directed towards the top side, the second panel comprises at an edge a second retaining profile with a hook directed towards the underside, the first retaining profile and the second retaining profile can be connected by a relative movement directed perpendicular to a plane of laying, and wherein a separate clip is provided, which comprises a clip head, a clip body and a clip base. Moreover, the invention relates to a method for inserting the clip into a retaining profile.

Abstract: A platform (2) in an interior platform for a tubular tower such as a windmill tower (24) made from steel is disclosed—and more specifically, a platform (2) adapted to be assembled in situ from construction element members in order to fit the inside wall (22) of the tower (24), comprising a basic, preferably circular, centre module (4), radial, telescoping supporting beam members (6), wherein the construction element members are modules (10, 12 and 14) which are independent of the diameter of the platform (2), and two-piece pivotable modules (16) which incline for mounting as a periphery ring next to the inside wall (22) of the tower (24).

Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing construction for terrace floors with the following features: support beams (1) and bearing beams (2), wherein the bearing beams (2) are fixed to the support beams (1) by means of fixing elements (3) and the fixing elements (3) each comprise a pair of rectangular plastic plates (3a, 3b), each plate having a thickness (d) and a swelling (4).Said particular embodiment of the plastic plates and the alternating fixing thereof to the bearing beams gives a plug connection which is also fixed to the support beams.

Abstract: The present invention includes two first frame strips, one side of each of the first frame strips is fitted with a first gripping portion, and the two first gripping portions are disposed so as to mutually correspond; and two second frame strips, which are respectively disposed at the upper and lower two ends of the two first frame strips, and together with the two first frame strips fabricate a frame. One side of each of the second frame strips is fitted with a second gripping portion, and the two second gripping portions are disposed so as to mutually correspond. Accordingly, a door or window structure is fabricated by means of the two first gripping portions and the two second gripping portions gripping a plate body.

Abstract: An adjustable wall brace may include: (a) an adjustment portion including a right-hand threaded portion and a left-hand threaded portion; (b) an extension portion including a threaded aperture configured to received at least one of the right-hand threaded portion and the left-hand threaded portion; and (c) a base portion including a threaded aperture configured to received at least one of the right-hand threaded portion and the left-hand threaded portion. A method for manufacturing an adjustable wall brace may include: (a) disposing an extension member within an extension receiving member; (b) receiving a first threaded portion of a dual-threaded adjustment mechanism within a threaded receiving aperture of at least one of the extension member and the extension receiving member; and (c) receiving a second threaded portion of the dual-threaded adjustment within a second threaded receiving aperture.

Abstract: A prefabricated wall element comprises a wood-cement plate-like body, a reinforcement embedded in the body and one or more plate-bracket units with a connecting plate rigidly connected to one or more anchoring brackets embedded in the plate-like body and engaged to the reinforcement, in which the plate-like body together with a rear surface of the connecting plate facing inwards the plate-like body define an assembling seat with an access opening lateral to the connecting plate.

Abstract: A channel anchoring device (100) having predetermined structural properties, for securing construction elements to a metallic structure, the anchoring device (100) comprising a generally elongate metallic channel rail (110) having an engagement surface for engagement with a fastener, the fastener providing fixation of a construction element to the channel rail (110), and a generally elongate metallic fixation member (120) abutted against and engaged with said channel rail (110), wherein the fixation member (120) is engaged with the channel rail (110), said fixation member being formed from a material suitable for allowing welded fixation of the anchoring device (100) to a structure.

Abstract: A clip guide apparatus for installation of decking members to an underlying joist structure by means of a clip with a pneumatic screw gun. The clip guide apparatus is comprised of a guide apparatus and a clip installation guide which are attached to the screw gun. The clip installation guide slides in the guide apparatus in response to the operative movement of the screw gun to advance the clip into a decking member. The clip is secured in position with a screw fastener whereby the decking member is secured to the underlying joist structure.

Abstract: A trim kit for trimming an opening such as a door or window opening in a building structure or the like is provided. The trim kit comprises a starter strip including a securing leg, a trim panel abutment flange and a first groove and a trim panel including a pre-cast body. The pre-cast body includes at least one decorative element, a tongue, a projecting nose and a channel between the tongue and projecting nose. When installed the tongue of the trim panel is received in the first groove of the starter strip and the abutment flange of the starter strip is received in the channel of the trim panel with the projecting nose overlying the abutment flange.

Abstract: Seal Guard Lip & Tape System provides users with an efficient means and method for applying underlay for various types of flooring. The system entails the joining of two laminate floor underlay sections to create a vapor barrier. The vapor barrier provides superior sealing by utilizing vapor barrier tape with release liner, and also reduces harm to installed flooring. Seal Guard Lip & Tape System may comprise foam underlay with vapor barrier qualities, vapor barrier tape, and release liner, all of which can be laminated together. The specially formulated vapor barrier tape can be attached to a 1½? release liner, which may be made of siliconized paper plastic, covering approximately half of the tape. The vapor barrier tape/release liner combination may be joined to the laminate underlay with 1½? of the tape and liner exposed beyond the foam underlay. The entire assembly can be easily affixed to an adjacent underlay sheet, thereby creating a sealing means.

Abstract: A recycled energy absorptive/moisture resistive underlayment includes a recycled energy absorbing layer comprised of either a nonwoven fiber batt formed from shoddy fibers or a foam pad formed from bonded foam. To protect the recycled energy absorbing layer from moisture, a moisture barrier is laminated on either one or preferably both side surfaces of the recycled energy absorbing layer. The moisture barrier laminated on a lower side surface of the recycled energy absorbing layer has a projecting flap which projects from first and second edge surfaces of the recycled energy absorbing layer to which the moisture barrier is laminated to the lower side surface thereof. The projecting flap enhances protection of the recycled energy absorbing layer from moisture by preventing moisture from migrating through seams and/or other exposed portions of the recycled energy absorbing layer.

Abstract: A structural insulated panel system includes a frame having a first and second vertical frame members and top and bottom frame members. First and second siding members are attached to opposite sides of the frame, the frame and the first and second siding members forming a cavity, with an insulation material within the cavity. The first vertical frame member includes recesses having a first depth and the second vertical frame member includes projections having a second depth. A first compressible seal is disposed within the recesses and is compressed by the projections of an adjacent panel upon assembly. A second compressible seal is disposed adjacent to each outside edge of the first or second vertical frame member and is compressed by the other frame member upon assembly. A plurality of voids are formed in at least one of the frame members and filled with the insulation fill material.

Abstract: A medicine dispensing device including: a device body 3; a medicine containing unit 4 mounted in the device body 3 and including a plurality of medicine containers 9 configured to dispense medicines contained therein through a medicine ejecting portion; a medicine receiving unit 5 movably provided in the device body 3 and having at least two medicine receiving sections 26 that are moved to each of the medicine containers 9 of the medicine containing unit 4 to receive the medicine dispensed from the medicine ejecting portion and are moved to a discharging position to discharge the received medicines; a medicine collecting unit 6 having a plurality of medicine collecting sections 44 each collecting the medicines discharged from each of the medicine receiving sections 26 in the discharging position; and a control unit 7 configured to move each of the medicine receiving sections 26 to allow the medicine receiving section to receive the medicines dispensed from a corresponding medicine containing section and to di

Abstract: Provided is a blood collection tube preparing apparatus which is simple, downsized, portable, capable of being easily placed on a desk or the like, excellent in responding to an emergency such as a disaster, and capable of preparing various kinds of blood collection tubes depending on a blood collection instruction from a doctor. A blood collection tube holding member is arranged along one transferring belt and between a forward-side transferring belt and a backward-side transferring belt of the one transferring belt, and lower end surfaces of a cap of a blood collection tube is supported on upper end surfaces of the blood collection tube holding member and the forward-side transferring belt. The forward-side transferring belt applies a transferring force to the blood collection tube through the cap. Further, the members constituting a storage box are accommodated in one module, and the storage box is detachably mounted onto a mounting portion of an apparatus main body.

Abstract: The present invention describes in particular a method for stabilizing a pharmaceutical composition by contacting said composition with a polymeric material comprising in particular an ethylene oxide sterilization step.

Abstract: A wrapper for wrapping a flower pot and/or floral grouping is disclosed. The wrapper is constructed of a sheet of material having an extension attached to a portion of the sheet of material. When the wrapper is formed about a flower pot to form a decorative cover, upper edges of the sheet of material and extension cooperate to form a skirt portion preferably having at least two separate edges providing a “two-sheet” effect in the decorative cover. The wrapper may have extensions on opposing ends of the sheet of material and may have one or more additional overlapping extensions.

Abstract: A system for packaging articles, which system comprises a first conveyor (6) for conveying items to form a first stream of items (7), and a second conveyor (23) for conveying items to form a second stream of items, and a first tool (16) capable of engaging items from one or more of the two streams, and of transferring any items so engaged from one of the two streams, in a direction substantially transverse to that stream, and to deposit those items at an adjacent point in the other of the two streams, whilst at least one of those two streams is in continuous motion.