Abstract: In certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a frame assembly is described. The frame assembly includes at least two connector elements. Each connector element has two legs with each leg including a tab. The frame assembly also includes at least two frame elements having a pair of first openings. Each first opening can receive a connector element leg. Each frame element further has a pair of second openings that are adjacent to a first opening and that can receive a tab. The frame assembly also includes a panel. Each frame element has a two different connector element legs joined thereto at each respective first opening and two different connector element tabs at each respective second opening such that the at least two frame elements are joined together to form a frame, with the panel being enclosed therein.

Abstract: A firearm includes a breech or firing chamber 101 where the cartridge is made to explode, and a mouth portion 102 adapted to cause the cartridge to pass from the magazine to the breech. The magazine is engaged to the breech and includes a plurality of chambers 21 sequentially mobile with respect to breech 101 so as to present one after another in the loading position in which a charging mechanism 7 inserts the cartridge into breech 101. Each single chamber 21 can slide independently on at least one track 22 placed on the magazine longitudinally with respect to the axis X of breech 101.

Abstract: The present invention is a buffer tube assembly 2 upon which stock modules may be mounted as part of a modular stock system. The best mode buffer tube features a uniform cheek plate 10 with a track 9 disposed underneath the cheek plate 10 on either side. Rail track 8 is disposed on the underside of buffer tube module 2 and is divided in half by a longitudinal groove. Interface detents 5 are provided on the sides of buffer tube module 2. Both rail track 8 and detents 5 are provided for interface with adjustable length stock modules. Individual half-rails of the rail track 8 may be angled to improve interface performance with adjustable for length stock modules. A clip hole 13 is provided as a securement means with fixed length stock modules. The invention may also be practiced as a mounting assembly for those firearms (usually air projection type) that do not require a buffer area.

Abstract: Slip-on handgun grips which contribute to accuracy and speed of target acquisition and make shooting a handgun a more pleasant experience by providing a comfortable, secure grip; and by isolating a shooter's thumb from impact and reducing shock, muzzle jump, twist, and recoil when the handgun is fired. The grip is fabricated from a stretchable elastomeric material. This material plus breakaway technology, external grooving, and a thumb-isolating tab maximize the enumerated benefits.

Abstract: A system is disclosed that includes a selectively positionable brake for a towed fishing body. Additionally, a system is disclosed that includes a speed control for a planer board. The planer board is used for fishing by being towed through water. Moreover, a method is disclosed including positioning a brake attached to a towed fishing body.

Abstract: The retriever/hook remover is a device for retrieving fishing lures that have become hung on various objects below and above the surface of the water. It can also be used to remove the hooks from the mouth of the fish after it has been caught. It consists of a handle that will attach to a standard utility pole. A stiff rod is molded into the handle that attaches to the extension pole. This rod should be made of a rigid metal to ensure that it retains durability, but could possibly be made from other material. At the end of the rod, opposite the handle, the rod is coiled to encase the fishing line to keep it from escaping. Coiling the rod three times seems to work really well, but the rod could be coiled more or less times. The inside diameter of this coil should be 3/16-inch to maybe 2-inches. The minimum rod size should be at least 3/16-inch in diameter to give it rigidity and durability. The length can vary from a few inches up to maybe four feet.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of retrieving a fishing rod having a reel, a connector and a pole from an rod holder. The method begins by positioning a carriage parallel to the rod holder such that the carriage is below the reel. The carriage includes an opening, a top wall, a bottom wall, a first side wall and a second side wall which form a cavity which can maintain the reel. Two channels located on the top and bottom wall of the engaging member having a first prong, a corresponding second prong and a stopper. The carriage also includes a handle affixed to the engaging member. The second step is to encapsulate the reel with the cavity. Next, the method contemplates contacting a connector of the fishing rod with the stopper. The final step is to lift the handle upward to remove the fishing rod from the rod holder.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a fishing pole includes a rod having a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end receives a grip and the distal end includes at least one line guide for receiving a fishing line. The grip of certain embodiments includes a flexible mounting tube that engages the proximal end of the rod and a sheet including a polymer outside layer and a fibrous inside layer. In some embodiments, the sheet has a configuration corresponding to the exterior shape of the flexible mounting tube, being wrapped about and adhered to the mounting tube, with the side edges of the sheet abutting one another to define a substantially longitudinal seam extending from the interior surface of the sheet to the exterior surface of the polymer layer. In some embodiments, the grip includes a tube and a strip that is spirally wrapped around the tube to form a substantially helical seam.

Abstract: A multi-action fishing lure includes a buoyant head section, a tail section, a joint, and a lip. The head section includes a front surface and an opposing rear surface. The tail section includes a lip that protrudes from a forward region of the tail section. The front surface includes a recessed region, and also includes a line connection device extending from the recessed region. A joint flexibly couples the head section to the tail section. The fishing lure can be retrieved to generate multiple different actions.

Abstract: A deep diving fishing lure having a forwardly-extending diving lip is provided with a fore-and-aft pivotable lure positioning arm mounted to the diving lip. The lure positioning arm, when locked in aft position, maintains the lure in a diving position when pulled through a body of water but negates the lure's tendency to dive when released from the aft position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a bait box (1) with means for accommodating a bait or with an accommodated bait (4) in the bait box (1), with at least one port (2, 3) for providing access for a pest, in particular for a small rodent, to the bait (4). It is distinguished by the fact that the bait box (1) is designed in such a way by the fact that it has at least one section (6) which is extendable in a telescope-like fashion from a retracted position (12) into an extended position (13), whereby the volume of the bait box (1) is enlarged. The invention furthermore relates to the use of the bait box, where, in order to activate the bait, the telescopically extendable section of the bait box is brought from the retracted position into the extended position. It furthermore relates to the use of the bait box as packaging for a bait. It furthermore relates to a method of producing the bait box.

Abstract: An insect bait station including a housing forming cavity for holding a liquid insect bait. The housing includes a main chamber, at least two reservoir chambers fluidly connected to the main chamber, and a bait station entrance. The entrance has a downwardly-positioned continuous wall leading from an opening in a top of the main chamber to an interior opening in an interior of the main chamber. A plug is provided for removably sealing the bait station. Various aspects of the bait station are directed to resisting spills and leaks after activation.

Abstract: A flow improver for biodiesel fuels, comprising an ?-olefin polymer with a weight average molecular weight of 50,000 to 500,000 that is obtained by polymerization of an ?-olefin mixture (C), wherein the mole ratio (A)/(B) of an ?-olefin (A) with 10 carbon atoms and an ?-olefin (B) with 14 to 18 carbon atoms is (A)/(B)=10/90 to 60/40.

Abstract: The present invention provides hybrid diesel fuels and methods for manufacturing hybrid diesel fuels. In embodiments, fuel compositions comprise at least one petrochemical fuel, at least one biosynthetic oil and at least one stabilizer mixture. The percentage by volume of the petrochemical fuel can be greater than 0% and less than 100%, and the percentage by volume of the stabilizer mixture can be between about 0.001% and about 0.5%.

Abstract: In an embodiment of the present invention, a renewable energy fuel is prepared by a process including the steps of: a) providing a renewable energy feedstock; b) providing an alcohol; c) providing a catalyst; d) mixing (a), (b), and (c) to form a blend; and e) homogenizing the blend at a pressure greater than 400 kilogram-force per square centimeter (Kg/cm2).

Abstract: A countercurrent process is disclosed for converting solid biomass material. The solid biomass material travels through a reactor system in countercurrent with hot heat carrier materials, such as particulate heat carrier material and hot gases. The solid biomass material is subjected to a first conversion at a first temperature T 1, and a second conversion at a second temperature, T 2, such that T 2>T 1. Bio-oil produced to at T 1 is not exposed to the higher temperature T 2. As a result, secondary reactions of the bio-oil components are minimized.

Abstract: A composition of matter is disclosed comprising an intimate mixture of a particulate solid biomass material and a carbonaceous material. The composition is suitable for conversion to a bio-oil in a pyrolysis reaction. The carbonaceous material acts as a reducing agent during the pyrolysis reaction. The composition of matter produces bio-oil in a greater yield than prior art processes. The bio-oil is of improved quality, as evidenced by its low TAN value.

Abstract: Methods, process, apparatus, equipment, and systems are disclosed for converting biomass into bio-oil fractions for chemicals, materials, feedstocks and fuels using a low-cost, integrated fast pyrolysis system. The system improves upon prior art by creating stable, bio-oil fractions which have unique properties that make them individually superior to conventional bio-oil. The invention enables water and low-molecular weight compounds to be separated into a final value-added fraction suitable for upgrading or extracting into value-added chemicals, fuels and water. Initial bio-oil fractions from the process are chemically distinct, have low-water content and acidity which reduces processing costs normally associated with conventional bio-oil post-production upgrading since fewer separation steps, milder processing conditions and lower auxiliary inputs are required. Biochar is stabilized so that it can be handled safely.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for growing and sequentially processing algae to produce a variety of products including but not limited to biofuels, algal meal, oil, unsaturated fatty acids and recombinant proteins and peptides in a cost-effective and energy efficient manner. Also provided are methods of use for the products.

Abstract: The invention relates to a hydrocarbon composition which can be used as fuel and/or combustible, obtained by means of a process which comprises subjecting a gasoil component, a gasoline component and a component of biological origin to hydrotreatment.

Abstract: Quaternized terpolymer formed from (A) ethylene, (B) C2-C14-alkenyl esters of one or more aliphatic C1-C20-monocarboxylic acids or C1-C24-alkyl esters of acrylic acid or of methacrylic acid and (Cq) ethylenically unsaturated monomers which comprise at least one tertiary nitrogen atom which is partly or fully in quaternized form. The quaternized terpolymer is suitable as a fuel additive for reducing or preventing deposits, for reducing fuel consumption and for minimizing power loss in direct-injection diesel engines, especially in diesel engines with common-rail injection systems.

Abstract: A method for making a combustible material is described. The method includes: (i) receiving one or more types of biomass, each of which includes an inorganic material; (ii) rupturing lignocellulose in one or more types of the biomass to produce ruptured biomass including the inorganic material; (iii) washing the ruptured biomass with solvent to drive the inorganic material from the ruptured biomass into the solvent to produce an inorganic-material-enriched solvent and an inorganic-material-depleted ruptured biomass; (iv) pyrolyzing the inorganic-material-depleted ruptured biomass to produce a combustible biomaterial.

Abstract: A composition of biomass material is disclosed. The composition includes: (i) a lignocellulosic material; and (ii) at least one member selected from a group consisting of potassium, sodium and chlorides, wherein said at least one member comprising not more than about 0.01% (by weight) of said composition. The composition may not include more than 10% of water.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are photobioreactor systems for high productivity aquaculture or aquafarming for growing of algae or other organisms in an aquatic environment featuring aspects that favor improved growth rates by achieving control over the contents of the growth medium, including carbon source, nitrogen source, and essential trace elements necessary for growth.

Abstract: The invention concerns a multi-layered heat insulating window panel for constructing wall and/or roof surfaces of a greenhouse, comprising: a frame structure, a first pane (12), particularly a customary glass pane which has an edge that is framed and attached in the frame structure and which is kept in position by the frame structure, and a supplementary pane, for example, deep drawn from plastic material, a supplementary pane on at least one surface of the first glass pane, forming a double-glazing arrangement, wherein the supplementary pane has a tray-like shape and the circumferential edge region is glued hermetically to the first pane and wherein the cavity is evacuated and in the interior the supplementary pane is supported by means of a number of supporting elements in order to prevent the pane from collapsing because of the external atmospheric pressure.

Abstract: A device for preventing plant growth around a post, comprising an opaque sheet, an opening in the sheet, and a slit extending entirely from the opening to the perimetric edge. A fastener structure is arranged to fasten one of the edge portions to an other of the edge portions in a relationship wherein the edge portions overlap thereby effecting a slope of the sheet downwardly from the opening to the perimetric edge and wherein the opening is shaped to have a first shape when the edge portions are not overlapping and to have a second shape to conform to the post when the edge portions are fastened in the overlapping relationship.

Abstract: A grow tube formed from a sheet of thermoform polymer to include a plurality of longitudinal ribs that protrude in a first direction normal to the plane of the sheet. When rolled into a grow tube, the ribs can extend radially inward and act as cushions that prevent the stem of the resident plant from colliding with or resting on the continuous rim of the grow tube. The ribs can also define vertically oriented channels that are open to the interior of the grow tube. Natural convection currents develop in the channels, promoting air exchange between the interior of the grow tube and the surroundings. The ribs can promote diffusion of the incoming sunlight. In one embodiment, the grow tube includes snap forms that overlap when the sheet is rolled into tubular form to provide a flangeless grow tube.

Abstract: The present invention is in the field of product marking and identification, more in particular to methods of differentiating products or product versions and to methods of product authentication. The present invention further relates to marker systems for product authentication, to a kit of parts for applying a marker system to a product and identifying the marked product, in particular seed, to seed coating compositions and to coated seed.

Abstract: A vertical planter includes stackable planter units each with plural sections in which plural plants can be planted. Each section of a planter unit can have a removable faceplate for placing soil in the planter section and planting plants in the soil, or potted plants can be placed in the faceplate openings. Water is provided to each planter section via a drip irrigation tube fed from a main water supply tube that extends to each planter unit. The drain water from each planter unit drains down through an underlying planter unit and into an underlying water reservoir.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (1) for accommodating plant material (4), such as in particular seed, but also a cutting, a seedling or other plant material. The device (1) comprises at least one holder (2) in which at least the plant material (4), and possibly herein a substrate material (5), can be placed, and the bottom of which is substantially open and can be closed with a closing element (6).

Abstract: The Garden Waterbed is constructed of a durable tube of flexible UV protected material. The ends of the tube have been sealed, enabling it to hold water. Circular holes have been cut out and sealed down the center length of the tube, at regular intervals. A valve is installed at one end of the tube, allowing water to be filled into the large single chamber and hold it with a tight seal. There are multiple purposes of the Garden Waterbed. The water bed's intended use is; to be rolled out in a agriculture environment or garden area, to be filled with water, and to have plants buried in the soil within the growth units. The surrounding water increases the thermal mass surrounding the plants in the circular holes. The thermal mass absorbs the suns energy and increases soil temperature, thus increasing the growing season and boosting production. The opaque plastic stops sunlight from reaching the ground and eliminates weeds and undesirables from competing with your crop.

Abstract: A stackable planter has a generally rectangular base having a base area. A hollow leg is attached to opposite sides of the base. Each leg has an open top, the open top of each leg being adjacent opposite sides of the base. The area of the open top is less than the base area. Interconnected sidewalls extend from the base and the legs to define a cavity for planting soil. A removable cover fits over the open area of each leg. These covers also fit on the rectangular base. The base, covers and open tops of the legs are sized such that the covers may be placed on the base and not extend into the open area of the legs and each cover can be placed over the open area of a leg fully covering the open area. The sidewalls and the legs are sized and configured so that one planter body can be positioned within another planter for storage and shipment.

Abstract: THE PRESENT INVENTION REFERS TO A VERTICAL GARDEN ASSEMBLY, CONCERNED WITH THE FIELD OF GARDENING, MORE PRECISELY FOR USE IN THE DECORATION OF INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENTS BY MEANS OF ADEQUATELY SUSPENDED VASES, TO WHICH AN ORIGINAL CONSTRUCTIVE ARRANGEMENT IS GIVEN, AIMING TO REACH A DIFFERENT FUNCTIONAL OPTION FROM THE MODELS PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED BY THE INVENTOR.

Abstract: A container seal device is provided that comprises a seal device for a shipping container, comprising a first unit that is affixed to a shipping container. A control system is contained in the first unit containing a control system. A second unit is provided that is configured to engage with an element of a door of a shipping container to which the first unit is affixed and to electrically connect with the control system in the first unit. The control system in the first unit is configured to detect a breach of the second unit indicative of access being made to the shipping container.

Abstract: A pinch-protection mechanism adapted for use with a closure panel and method for use of the same, said mechanism comprising at least one structural component defining an adjustable edge section manipulable between first and second configurations and an active material element coupled to the component, such that the change causes or enables the edge section to be manipulated to one of said first and second configurations, and manipulating the edge section between said first and second configurations eliminates, warns of, or mitigates a pinch condition.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a folding security window, in which an end of the security window is mounted to a window sill, the other end of the security window is connected to a window, a height-adjustable movable part is mounted to a vertical pole of the security window, a connecting means for connecting or disconnecting the security window to or from the window is provided, and the folded security window is not exposed to the outside. When the window is opened or closed, the security window is unfolded or folded, so that the security window does not spoil the appearance of the city. The movable parts mounted to upper and lower ends of the vertical pole enhance the adaptability and movability of the security window. The security window efficiently performs its original function without hindering ventilation, views, or light admittance.

Abstract: A mechanized door drive linkage assembly for connection to a track mounted door for mechanized translation of the door along the tracks between a closed position and an open position, a generally linear arm attached at a first end to a movable car bracket mounted upon a rail, the arm extending generally downward from the car bracket and proximate to an upper region of a door when the door is in a closed position, the arm having a linear length and a generally planar central section and one or more flanges which extend from edges of the central section and which extend out of a plane Of the central section and away from a second side of the arm which is defined by the central section, the one or more flanges terminating generally perpendicular to the central section, the one or more flanges extending substantially along a length of the arm, and a plurality of openings in the central section configured for the passage of one-or more fasteners through the central section; an elbow bracket having a first segment

Abstract: Pneumatic door system of fluid lines, valves, switches, and sensors integrated into hinge mechanisms, door frame, and door connected to a fluid pressurization system to inflate and deflate one or more fluid seals attached to outer perimeter of door adjacent to inner perimeter of door frame to close gap between outer perimeter of door and inner perimeter of door frame to provide radio frequency shielding against, for example, high-altitude electromagnetic pulse. Air seal creates a substantially impermeable barrier against radio frequency transmission, as well as air infiltration, when fully inflated. Separate fluid channels in each component interconnect to act as one fluid circuit or network when door is closed. Pneumatic door system can be fluidly connected to a conventional fluid pressurization system in communication with a programmable logic controller to respond to user input or automatic commands with system overrides to react to system air pressure and air flow conditions.

Abstract: A vehicle door assembly includes an outer handle assembly, a latch mechanism, a rod, and a contact surface. The outer handle assembly includes a moveable handle. The latch mechanism includes a latch for engaging a striker and an outer handle lever operably connected to the latch. The rod connects the outer handle assembly to the latch mechanism. The contact surface is associated with the vehicle door and is inwardly offset from the rod. The contact surface is positioned with respect to the rod such that inward lateral movement of the handle during an outer handle intrusion event results in the rod moving laterally inward and impacting the contact surface. Impact with the contact surface by the rod inhibits the rod from moving the outer handle lever in an unlatching direction.

Abstract: Methods of forming a polycrystalline compact for use in an earth-boring tool include sintering a plurality of hard particles with catalyst material to faun a polycrystalline material that includes a plurality of inter-bonded particles of hard material integrally formed with the catalyst material and introducing at least a portion of the polycrystalline material to a reactive material to remove at least a portion of the catalyst material contained within the polycrystalline material. The reactive material may include at least one of a molten glass, an ionic compound, a leaching liquor, and a chemical plasma. The reactive material may be introduced to the polycrystalline material at a temperature of greater than or equal to a melting point thereof.

Abstract: Embodiments relate to superabrasive compacts including a diamond-silicon carbide composite table, and methods of fabricating such superabrasive compacts. In an embodiment, a method of fabricating a superabrasive compact is disclosed. An assembly comprising a mixture including diamond particles and silicon is formed. The silicon comprises amorphous silicon, crystalline silicon crystallized from amorphous silicon formed by a milling process, or combinations thereof. A substrate is positioned in proximity to the mixture. The assembly is subjected to a high-pressure/high-temperature process to form a superabrasive compact comprising a superabrasive table bonded to the substrate. The superabrasive table comprises diamond-silicon carbide composite including diamond grains dispersed through a matrix of silicon carbide grains.

Abstract: Aluminum oxide particles are provided that include primary particles each having a hexahedral shape and an aspect ratio of 1 to 5. The aluminum oxide particles preferably have an average primary particle size of 0.01 to 0.6 ?m. The aluminum oxide particles preferably have an alpha conversion rate of 5 to 70%. Further, the aluminum oxide particles preferably have an average secondary particle size of 0.01 to 2 ?m, and the value obtained by dividing the 90% particle size of the aluminum oxide particles by the 10% particle size of the aluminum oxide particles is preferably 3 or less. The aluminum oxide particles are used, for example, as abrasive grains in the applications of polishing semiconductor device substrates, hard disk substrates, or display substrates.

Abstract: The disclosed subject matter is directed to a method for producing nanoparticles, as well as the nanoparticles produced by this method. In one embodiment, the nanoparticles produced by the disclosed method have a high defect density. A solution including cerium nitrate hexahydrate is combined with a solution including hexamethylenetetramine to form a combined aqueous solution. After a period of time, the combined aqueous solution is combined with a solution including copper nitrate trihydrate to form a further aqueous solution. The further aqueous solution is then mixed to produce nanoparticles.

Abstract: The compressive strength of a fluid-pressurized structure is combined with the tensile strength of interior members to maintain the geometric shape of a structure used to provide support with very low mass. These compressed fluid building structures can be combined with other traditional construction materials in creating columns, beams and other structural support elements.

Abstract: This invention relates to a lightweight housing module comprising at least one stretched fabric intended to form the roof of said module and fixed along its lower edge on a rigid frame maintained at a distance from the ground by a plurality of lateral posts, remarkable in that it comprises vertical panels and/or opening frames in order to close in a substantially sealed manner its vertical facades and a false ceiling arranged in order to be arranged under said fabric inside said lightweight housing module and fixed to the frame. This invention also relates to a modular building remarkable in that it comprises a plurality of lightweight housing modules, according to the invention, arranged next to one another, and a system for sealing between the adjacent lightweight housing modules. This invention also relates to their method of assembly.

Abstract: A multidirectional mounting bracket assembly is utilized in conjunction with exterior siding that covers sheathing of an exterior wall. The assembly has trim member that press fits to a base member along an axis disposed perpendicular to the exterior wall. The base member has a mounting flange secured to the sheathing and circumferentially continuous inner and outer walls disposed co-axially to one another and laterally projecting axially. The trim member has a facial plate disposed substantially perpendicular to the axis and a mating wall that press fits between the inner and outer walls. The outer wall carries a plurality of channeling features for cascading water on top of the mating wall. The mating wall generally carries a dam flange and preferably end dams for diverting water through weep holes in the facial plate.

Abstract: A roof for a modular building comprises a ridge beam extending along a ridge beam axis. The ridge beam includes, when viewed in cross section, a load bearing central section, and first and second roof panel connectors on opposed first and second sides of the central section. The roof further comprises at least a first and a second roof panel extending transversely to the ridge beam axis and downwardly and outwardly from the ridge beam. Each roof panel comprises an inner end portion and an outer end portion. The inner end portion of the first roof panel is engaged by the first roof panel connector, and the inner end portion of the second roof panel is engaged by the second roof panel connector. The roof further comprises a first tie for the outer end portion of the first roof panel, and a second tie for the outer end portion of the second roof panel. Each tie extends parallel to the ridge beam axis and comprises a top portion and a bottom portion.

Abstract: A new concept wall system is provided, wherein the Exterior Insulation and Finish System cladding is created using components with no water absorption, a very low vapor permeability and sealing properties, accommodated with an installation technology which extend the materials properties to the assembly, together with bonding and sealing the intersections and terminations, creating a Non-Permissive to water and vapor diffusion, Exterior Insulation and Finish System (NP-EIFS). The present invention relates to an EIFS cladding having two air and vapor barriers, one applied to the substrate, a continuous liquid membrane with sheathing joints sealed to be moisture barrier for inside vapors, and an exterior weather and vapor barrier which is created using closed cell extruded polystyrene insulation boards, special assembled with joints sealed, to create a non-permissive insulation envelope of the enclosure.

Abstract: A curtain wall unit includes a frame composed of a casting material, which define at least one infill area for receiving and retaining an infill element, and a connector assembly operatively engaged to the frame for attaching the frame to a standing structure. A method of making the curtain wall unit and a curtain wall assembled from the same is also described.

Abstract: A spiral staircase comprises a central supporting element and a plurality of steps which are connected to the supporting element at a first end, there being two types of steps positioned in an alternating fashion, of which a first type of step is substantially “L”-shaped and a second type of step is substantially arrow-shaped.