Abstract: A method for determining an empty load in a clothes dryer having a drying chamber with an air inlet, an air outlet and operable according to a predetermined cycle of operation.

Abstract: A method for determining an end of cycle in a clothes dryer having a drying chamber with an air inlet, an air outlet and operable according to a predetermined cycle of operation.

Abstract: Universal sole designed to help a user adapt his walking or running gait to the surface over which he is moving or to the peculiarities of his individual leg/foot System by individually adjusting the hardness and thickness of several areas of the sole. Each area consists of one or more layers of a flat coil of elastic extensible airtight and optionally reinforced rubber tube which may be flattened or inflated beyond its nominal diameter as a function of the pressure introduced by the action, as the user walks, of a small pump located inside the sole underneath the user's heel and adjustments and isolations performed manually with a System of valves built into the thickness of the sole. The coils, the valve System and the pumping System are either located and bonded between layers of foam containing the impression of the coils and filling the spaces between laces or placed in a mould or in a sole in the shape of a boat, a filling material then being introduced to fill the empty spaces.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for manufacturing inflatable bladders for use in articles of manufacture. The method includes the steps of providing a first polymer film, applying a curable release coating to the polymer film in a pattern that corresponds to the configuration of the inflatable bladder, curing the release coating to the first polymer film, providing a second polymer film with the first polymer film to form a layered element such that the release coating is disposed between the polymer films, positioning the layered element between two plies of material, applying heat and pressure to adhere the polymer films together except in the area where the release coating has been applied to form an inflatable compartment surrounded by a sealed perimeter, and removing the plies of material from the adhered first and second polymer films.

Abstract: An adjustable height shoe heel system having a low heel member and a high heel member. The high heel portion has a Y shape. The low heel portion has a W shape. The top legs of the Y shape can of nest into the recesses of the W shape when in the low heel mode. The legs of the Y shape rotatably pinned to the central portion of the W shape so that the high heel can pivot down when in the high heel mode. A heel retaining spring member is fixed at its lowest point to a post protruding from the high heel member and at its highest points are removably retained by apertures located in the side walls of the low heel member. A high heel cover member surrounds the high heel member when in high heel mode.

Abstract: A foot orthotic device is disclosed. More specifically described is an individualized foot orthotic device to correct and/or restore the ideal alignment and/or positioning of foot structures. The device is designed using a method and system that applies sequential pressure to regions on a plantar foot surface, and obtaining positional information about each region. Based on the positional information, an orthotic profile is determined, for design of one or more custom, individualized foot orthotic devices for a subject.

Abstract: A suspension heel is provided for use with footwear, such as high heeled shoes, to provide cushioning to the wearer. The suspension heel includes a heel shaft connected to the shoe sole and a compliant heel plug attached to the heel shaft. The shaft includes a cavity or other receptacle for receiving the compliant heel plug. The suspension heel provides cushioning as well as stability for the wearer of the footwear, while maintaining aesthetic style. A relief detail formed by the compliant heel plug and the shaft provides compliance by compressing when a force is applied. For instance, as a person walks in the shoe, ground contact applies a force to the suspension heel. The relief detail deforms or compresses in response to the force, attenuating it and providing cushioning to the wearer.

Abstract: In a dredging apparatus, a suction head relocates matter by sucking particulate matter from a bed of a body of water. The suction head includes a first conduit (C1) having an inlet; a second conduit (C2) having an inlet and an outlet, connected in series with C1. The C2 outlet opens to the C1 inlet via a mixing region. A third conduit (C3) has an inlet and an outlet, the latter opening to C1 via a restriction and the mixing region. A fluid may be fed under pressure through the C3 inlet and conveyed to the mixing region via the restriction, reducing the pressure of the fluid passing into the mixing region, the reduction causing matter to be sucked through the C2 inlet and conveyed though C2 to the mixing region, the matter being entrained with the fluid and exiting the mixing region via C1.

Abstract: An article, such as a towel, having an opening to secure a twirling mechanism thereto. The twirling mechanism having a handle extending from a bottom portion thereof and having a mechanism to permit rotating of the handle with respect to the fabric-article, such that the fabric article is capable of twirling around the twirling mechanism. The twirling mechanism may in other embodiments include noise maker when the handle is rotated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a solar power generation display assembly and methods for providing same involving solar arrays in a display of designated indicia, each solar array containing one or more electronically linked solar modules or cells of a crystalline or amorphous type and other modules. The solar modules and/or portions of the solar modules and other module portions and/or portions of the other module portions within each specific array or display may be static or manipulated electronically or mechanically to provide an enhanced indicia while a programmable display management system enables operation of electrical and mechanical management sub-systems for displaying the indicia.

Abstract: A lighting fixture comprising a mounting frame adapted to be mounted to a vertical mounting surface. The mounting frame supports a panel. The panel may include decorative indicia on a front surface thereof. Further, the panel may include an array of tiles thereon. The lighting fixture also comprises a mounting frame adapted to support the panel and a plurality of support arms projecting from the mounting frame. Each of the arms supports at least one lamp socket. The lighting fixture further comprises a secondary light source coupled to the mounting frame at a location between the front surface of the panel and the wall. The lighting fixture comprises control electronics adapted to selectively apply power to the light source and the at least one lamp socket. In some embodiments, the secondary light source is responsive to an activation signal from at least one of a presence detector and a photodetector.

Abstract: A door opening indicator device comprising a signaler that uses a color code based on the color red and the color green for an anticipated arrangement of people accessing through them.

Abstract: A sign assembly includes a substantially rigid framework such as a rectangular or other shaped frame, and a flexible display sheet, typically of cloth or fabric material. The display sheet wraps around an outer portion of the framework and enters a channel, where it is retained at a flexible retainer element disposed in the channel. Optionally, the flexible retainer element may be a strip of resilient sheet material defining one or more slit or slot patterns and/or openings that are configured to releasably engage portions of the display sheet. A cover element may be used to cover the channel and to present a finished appearance along the outside portion of the framework.

Abstract: A rifle bedding block is a one-piece, unitary structure that incorporates an integral magazine aperture and an integral trigger guard. The unitary structure enhances rifle performance and makes the rifle more easily broken down and re-assembled when such is desired or required. An added advantage is that such a structure also eliminates any height differential relative to a magazine that is received within the integral magazine aperture and the height of the action.

Abstract: A handgun is provided with a frame including a magazine receiver and trigger guard. A breech-slide is slidably coupled with the frame. A magazine safety assembly includes a safety tab that engages a trigger assembly, when a cartridge magazine is not seated within the magazine receiver, and prevents actuation of the trigger assembly. The safety tab engages the cartridge magazine when it is seated within the magazine receiver, which displaces the safety tab from within the trigger assembly and allows the trigger assembly to actuate. Embodiments of the handgun are provided in a compact size. A finger recess in the trigger guard increases available surface area along a grip portion despite the overall compact size.

Abstract: An unloading tool and methods of manipulating a load condition of a muzzle loading firearm. The unloading tool includes a tube having a breech end and a distal end. The unloading tool may have threads at the breech end of the tube for releasably engaging a breech of a firearm so as to facilitate the removal and reloading of powder with respect to the breech of the firearm.

Abstract: Adjustable firearm supports, and more specifically adjustable bipods, are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a firearm support includes a stock mount assembly configured to support a forestock of the firearm and an attachment assembly carried by the stock mount assembly. The attachment assembly is configured to releasably attach to the forestock of the firearm. The firearm support also includes first and second legs operably coupled to the support plate. Each leg is pivotable between a stowed position and an extended position. In the stowed position the legs are generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the firearm, and in the extended position the legs are generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the firearm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rail cover for a firearm rail, and more particularly to a rail cover with a base and an insert. In one embodiment, a cover for a firearm rail includes a base with an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion has a groove dimensioned to engage a firearm rail. The cover also includes an insert for engaging the upper portion of the base. The upper portion of the base includes an overhang dimensioned to receive the insert. The groove retains the base to a firearm rail, and the overhang retains the insert to the base. The base is substantially rigid, and the insert is substantially flexible.

Abstract: Mount assemblies for securing laser sights (designators) to a wide variety of guns through mounting of the designator directly to an existing conventional scope. The mount assembly includes a base adapted for attaching the mount assembly to a scope, a rail pivotally attached to the base, and a ring assembly on the rail for mounting the designator to the rail. A first adjustment mechanism is provided for pivoting the rail in a first plane toward and away from the base to effect elevation changes in the trajectory of a laser beam generated by the designator, and a second adjustment mechanism is provided for pivoting the rail relative to the base in a second plane to effect windage changes in the trajectory of the laser beam.

Abstract: A toy gun having a laser sight includes a gun body, a laser sight and a trigger assembly. The laser sight is selectively located in a first position or a second position. The laser sight includes a light-emitting element for aiming a beam toward the front of the gun body and an activating element for controlling the ON/OFF state of the light-emitting element. The trigger assembly includes a trigger and a connecting rod driven by the trigger to bias the activating element. When the laser sight is in the first position, the trigger is pressed to drive the connecting rod to move forwards, thereby biasing the activating element to turn on the light-emitting element. When the laser sight is in the second position, the activating element is located farther away from the connecting rod and unable to be biased by the connecting rod, thereby turning off the light-emitting element.

Abstract: A fishing lure capable of sufficiently catching fish, while not getting caught in weeds or similar environments. The lure generally comprises a hook and a main body, with the hook having a barbed portion abutting the underside or belly of the main body when in a normal position and being located externally of the main body when engaging a fish.

Abstract: One exemplary embodiment of the invention is a translation stage including a receiving portion adapted to receive a fishing reel, a mounting portion adapted for mounting to a fishing pole, wherein the receiving portion is movably affixed to said mounting portion along a first direction; and a force measurement device configured to produce a response indicative of the force between the base portion and the mounting portion along the first direction. Another embodiment is a fishing reel including a frame for supporting a line spool, a base portion, a line spool rotatably mounted within the frame, a mounting portion adapted for mounting to a fishing pole, the base portion is movably affixed to the mounting portion along a first direction; and a force measurement device.

Abstract: A fishing hook with elasmobranch-repelling qualities is disclosed. The fishing hook, comprised of a ferromagnetic material, is rendered repellent to elasmobranchs through the incorporation of an exterior coating of an electropositive metal, and contact or impulse magnetization.

Abstract: A live aqueous animal container having: a) an insulated housing; b) the insulated housing having an insulated base and insulated water tight walls forming a water-retaining volume having a maximum internal height within which water can be retained in the volume while the housing insulated base is seated on a flat surface; c) the insulated housing having an openable top; d) at least one wall or the base having a port therein; e) a hollow tube having a first end connected to the port and a second end connected to a water-submersible, electric fluid pump; f) the electric pump connected to a battery powering the electric pump; g) the insulated housing having a self-leveling water system that levels water in the water-retaining volume to a level at least 5% below the maximum internal height.

Abstract: A transmitting device for use in a pest control station has an antenna and a housing sealingly enclosing the antenna therein.

Abstract: A fuel for splitting water into hydrogen and an oxide component comprises a substantially solid pellet formed from a solid-like mixture of a solid-state source material capable of oxidizing in water to form hydrogen and a passivation surface layer of the oxide component, and a passivation preventing agent that is substantially inert to water in an effective amount to prevent passivation of the solid-state material during oxidation. The pellets are brought into contact with an alloy of the passivation preventing agent having a melting point temperature below that of the solid-like mixture to initiate the hydrogen-producing reaction at a lower temperature.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process and apparatus for the production of diesel fuel from feedstocks containing fatty acids, glycerated fatty acids, and glycerin by catalytic and/or non-catalytic pyrolysis followed by esterification. Specifically, the present invention relates to the production of Renewable Diesel having low glycerin, water, and sulfur content.

Abstract: A biomass torrefaction system is provided which enables a continuous torrefaction process that involves the introduction of biomass particles into a rotating reactor drum having a low oxygen environment. The particles are conveyed through the drum by a heated gas stream and simultaneously torrefied thereby. Gas exiting the drum is recirculated back to a heat source for reheating the gas prior to reentering the drum. A method of biomass torrefaction is also provided.

Abstract: An environment-friendly planting device with automatic percolation and irrigation of hermetic liquid includes a planting container and draining and irrigating pipes. An inner part of the planting container is orderly provided with a first layer having ceramic aggregates and sand, a second layer having medical stones, sand and perlites, and an organic substrate layer from bottom to top. The first layer and the second layer are for storing water. The first layer has a first draining and irrigating pipe having a U-shaped inner cavity. The second layer has a second draining and irrigating pipe having a U-shaped inner cavity as a snorkel. The first draining and irrigating pipe and the second draining and irrigating pipe respectively have a first end connected to a vertical water inlet pipe, and a second end sealed. A bottom of the water inlet pipe is sealed. The organic substrate layer is for cultivating plants therein.

Abstract: A plant package includes a flower pot containing a floral grouping and a flexible sleeve which may be provided with detaching elements at preselected areas. When the sleeve is positioned about the flower pot, a decorative lower portion of the sleeve contains the flower pot, and a skirt portion of the sleeve is disposed about a lower portion of the floral grouping contained within the flower pot.

Abstract: An expandible aeroponic grow system capable of adding additional stay systems horizontally or vertically to the support structure of the base grow system so as to utilize a common pump, valves, filter, drain, supply tank and nutrient supply media. It utilizes a root spray that has an adjustable pattern to accommodate different placements of plants in the enclosed spray tray. It also uses a spray pattern designed to maximize the water and nutrient delivery to the plant's entire root as well as increasing the oxygen content of the nutrient media.

Abstract: A gasification apparatus includes a pressure wave pulverizer and a gasifier. The pressure wave pulverizer includes a first gas flow generator and a passage with a pulverizer inlet, a pulverizer outlet, and a gas inlet. The pulverizer inlet is supplied with the solid feedstock. The passage includes a gas acceleration section. The gas flow generator is configured to draw high speed gas through the gas inlet so as to induce pressure waves in the gas acceleration section thereby drying the solid feedstock and disintegrating the solid feedstock into particles. The gasifier is in flow communication with the pulverizer outlet.

Abstract: A system, including a gasifier comprising a wall defining a chamber, an inlet, an outlet, and a port, a combination feed injector coupled to the inlet, wherein the combination feed injector is configured to inject a first fuel and air or oxygen into the chamber to preheat the gasifier, and the combination feed injector is configured to inject a second fuel and oxygen into the gasifier after preheating to gasify the second fuel, an optical device coupled to the port, a sensor coupled to the optical device, and a monitoring system coupled to the sensor, wherein the monitoring system is configured to acquire data from the sensor, process the data, and provide an output representative of a condition of the gasifier based on the data.

Abstract: A sensing assembly for sensing a body part in a window opening or a boot opening is described. The sensing assembly includes first and second electrically conductive members and electrically oscillating means for applying an electrically oscillating signal to the second electrically conductive member. The electric field generated by the applied signal is concentrated in the opening region, and if a body part is within the opening closing movement of the window or hoot is halted.

Abstract: A shutter of the type having a frame, and louvres extending from side to side within the frame, the louvres being rotatable about parallel axes, the side frames having a hollow interior, and defining longitudinal slots, and having a louvre control member within the frame for operating all louvres, drive connector members connected to the louvre control member for engaging respective louvres, and each drive connector member in turn having a first gear operated by the louvre control member, a second gear supporting and driving an end of a louvre, a drive housing supporting the first and second gears in meshing engagement, and, drive surfaces on the first gear for interengaging with the louvre control member.

Abstract: A window covering louvered blind system for horizontal and vertical orientations has a plurality of structurally sound and aesthetically appealing louvers within the body of the window-covering unit. A primary main body or middle segment of the louver is substantially planar with opposed fins that extend integrally in the same downward direction from the elongated edges of the main body at an obtuse angle. The preferred embodiments have a matching head-rail and bottom rail. Both symmetrical and asymmetrical versions of fins are disclosed. The louvers hereof are shown being used in blinds and shutters.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a method and an arrangement for opening and closing a suspended ceiling or corresponding of an elevator car and also a locking device. The suspended ceiling or corresponding is supported in place at least partly by one or more locking devices. In the method the suspended ceiling or corresponding is opened from its locking and lowered away from its position and fixed again into its position. In the opening phase of the suspended ceiling the locking devices supporting the suspended ceiling are pre-tuned into a state where the suspended ceiling continues to stay in place in the upper position and after pre-tuning the suspended ceiling is released from its locking by lifting the suspended ceiling first upwards and after this by letting the suspended ceiling lower downwards.

Abstract: The invention concerns an ejection system for a window pane or panel which is affixed to a frame structure with at least one clamping seal. The system has means for ejecting the panel or window pane from the clamping seal and (a) a frame part with a housing which surrounds the inner face of the window pane or panel along a peripheral path, wherein the housing has an open end facing the window pane or panel; (b) an inflatable seal arranged in the housing; (c) a pressure source which is joined to the inflatable seal; and (d) an emergency actuation means to release pressure from the gas pressure source. The released air or gas expands the inflatable seal which pushes the window pane or panel out of the clamping seal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are embodiments of vehicle storage compartments having closure panel assemblies that can comprise a first lid portion having a first lid surface on which a locating channel having opposing side walls is formed and a second lid portion on which first and second locating projections are formed. At least a portion of each of the first and second locating projections is received within the locating channel when the first and second lid portions are engaged. One of the first and second lid portions is moveable relative the other of the first and second lid portions between extended and retracted positions. The first and second locating projections are spaced apart in a direction of travel of the one of the first and second lid portions. The locating channel includes first and second reduced-width sections that contact the first and second locating projections, respectively, in the retracted position.

Abstract: A retrofit conversion kit for facilitating the conversion of a door operating apparatus conventionally mounted above the door, to a position mounted and anchored underground for operating a swinging door therefrom. The conversion to an anchored underground position is facilitated by incorporating positional adjustment mechanisms covering any or all possible adjustment dimensions.

Abstract: A rotating mechanism includes a biasing device (4) and a damper device. When a movable body (2) is changed over from a first position to a second position and from the second position to the first position of a main body (1), the rotating mechanism operates to rotate the movable body (2) against a biasing force of the biasing device (4) up to midway of a changeover operation thereof, rotates the movable body (2) by the biasing force of the biasing device (4) after the midway, and brakes the movable body (2) by the damper device in a predetermined interval in which the movable body (2) is rotated by the biasing force. The movable body (2) includes an arm (21) integrally rotated. The damper device is a piston damper (3) which is rotatably and pivotally supported on the main body (1), connected directly or indirectly relative to the arm (21), and provided so that an extending/retracting direction thereof is changed over on the midway of the changeover operation of the movable body (2).

Abstract: An adjustable door sill assembly can include a threshold. A threshold cap can be on the threshold and have at least one opening formed therein. A carriage can be beneath the threshold cap and positioned proximate the at least one opening. At least one adjustment element on the carriage is capable of causing the threshold cap to move vertically with respect to the threshold. The adjustment element can be accessible through the opening on the threshold cap. A cap plug can cover the opening, the cap plug being removably attachable with the carriage.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for producing a porous sheet, including the steps of a) producing a polymer resin sheet containing an object to be processed by supercritical fluid extraction which is dissolved in supercritical fluid; and b) injecting the supercritical fluid into the polymer resin sheet to extract the object to be processed by supercritical fluid extraction that is contained in the polymer resin sheet, thereby forming pores in the polymer resin sheet, and a porous sheet produced by the same.

Abstract: A wind mitigation system is disclosed, including a panel engageable with a drain channel of a roof, the panel dimensioned to extend above a top edge defined by the drain channel, wherein the panel defines a plurality of openings; and a structural support member coupled to the panel, the structural support member providing increased rigidity of the panel.

Abstract: An electrical connection system is presented that is especially suited for use with a solar shingle application disposed on a rooftop of a building structure. The electrical connection system, when underlying roof shingles disposed on the rooftop, has a low profile that prevents an undesired buckled visual appearance from occurring to the roof shingles over a service life of the roof shingles. The electrical connection system has a thickness that is about a diameter thickness of at least one wire conductor that attaches with at least one connector body of the electrical connection system. The electrical connection system further includes at least one latch mechanism, that when sufficiently engaged against by a tool, allows a plug connector body to unmate from a socket connector body or a shunt socket connector body. A method to construct the at least one connector of the electrical connection system is also presented.

Abstract: Support structures and systems for electrical panels, such as solar panels or collectors, and other materials and devices are described. The structures are relatively strong and lightweight and include cable management features.

Abstract: Wall panel systems are provided. The systems use interlocking components to attach photovoltaic (PV), ceramic, or other rigid wall panels to an exterior wall of a building.

Abstract: A modular tile configured to interlock with multiple tiles to form a modular floor covering over a floor. The tile includes a top surface having a periphery defining side walls extending downward from the top surface, the side walls having a coupling portion configured to couple with other tiles adjacent thereto to form the modular floor covering. The tile also includes a bottom side, opposite the top surface, having a support grid including an array of downward extending polymeric post structures, at least some of the post structures including at least one resilient end portion with a radial end surface configured to be positioned against the floor to facilitate controlled deflection of the post structures. The post structures may comprise primary and secondary post structures, with the secondary post structures limiting the deflection of the primary post structures.

Abstract: A protecting wall board assembly for houses, including two “?” shaped column and a plurality of hollow flat plates. The “?” shaped column has a guiding slot and corresponding first arm and second arm. The first arm is connected with a bent section. The second arm is connected with a protruding rib. Corresponding first engaging portion and second engaging portion are provided on an upper end portion and a lower end portion of the hollow flat plate. A plurality of hollow flat plates are accommodated in the guiding slot of the two “?” shaped column, and are fixedly joined together with the first and second engaging portions. The hollow flat plates are fixed between the bent section and the protrusion tube. The parts are of simple structure, can be easily manufactured, assembled, and disassembled, and can be used for the windows and doors having different widths and heights.

Abstract: The present invention is in a first part is a door security system including an elongate J-frame to attach to a door-frame having a recessed groove defined within a first vertical piece. The J-frame snugly nestles within, and extends entirely along the groove. An elongate vertical member attaches to a door first vertical surface to entirely cover same and traverse at least the door thickness. The vertical member mates with the J-frame, to prevent unwanted force entry. In a second part, the invention includes an elongate U-frame to attach to a door having a recessed groove defined within a second vertical surface. The U-frame snugly nestles within and extends entirely along the recessed groove. An elongate T-frame attaches to, and extends axially entirely along, a second vertical door-frame piece. The T-frame mates with the U-frame to prevent the door from being removed from its frame.