Abstract: A dust collection cover capable of efficiently collecting cutting chips and residues generated as a result of cutting a workpiece. A cutter includes a motor and a rotary blade driven by the motor, and the dust collection cover is attached to the cover for covering a part of the blade. The cover is formed with a dust discharge port through which cutting chips and residues are discharged. The cover has a guide arrangement for directing the cutting chips and residues toward an interior of the cover body. The arrangement provides a blowing-out air blowing to the workpiece, or a rod-like member removing the cutting chips and residues.

Abstract: A combined set of interacting instruments for constructing and analyzing mathematical figures includes a ruler, an adjustable triangle assembly, a compass and a protractor. The ruler includes an elongated strip of rigid or semi-rigid plastic having a length, width and relatively thin thickness. A pivot point is provided in a general middle portion of the ruler together with three parallel longitudinally extending guideways along portions of the ruler. One of the guideways includes a positioning hole for a writing instrument to act as a compass. The triangular assembly includes two moveable elements having first and second ends with the two elements pivotally connected together at one end of each of the elements so they can be disposed in an end to end relationship. The moveable elements also have a guide follower that fits within one of the guideways in the ruler.

Abstract: A method and template enable the testing of fusion joints of plastic pipes to be conducted by a single operator in the field at the welding site by the efficient and precise extraction from the joints to be tested of a number of high quality tensile coupons. The coupons are tested to failure in a field-suitable, well controlled, self contained, tensile testing apparatus. A narrowing bow-tie-like pattern of the coupon ensures that the failure of the coupon in the tensile test will occur at the narrowest section of the coupon. The template can be visually aligned with the joint to ensure that it is the joint that will be tested.

Abstract: A system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a cuttings dryer, a pump, and a transfer line fluidly connecting the cuttings dryer and the pump, the transfer line having a fluid inlet for receiving a fluid. Furthermore, the system for slurrifying drill cuttings including a storage vessel fluidly connected to the pump for storing a slurry. Additionally, a method for slurrifying drill cuttings including drying drill cuttings in a cuttings drying to produce dry cuttings and combining a fluid with the dry cuttings to produce a slurry. Furthermore, the method includes mixing the slurry and the dry cuttings in a mixing pump and transferring the slurry to a storage vessel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved method for using heat energy in a gypsum board plant. More specifically, the method contemplates taking heat from a gasifier, or other alternative heat source, and using it to dry gypsum boards. In order to control humidity levels, this heat is delivered to one or more board dryers via a heat exchanger.

Abstract: A device for supporting at least one vessel containing a target material to be lyophilized generally includes a support panel, a central region, a perimeter region, a thermal shield, and at least one shielding cavity. The support panel has a support surface. The central region is defined by the support panel for supporting the at least one vessel. The perimeter region is also defined by the support panel and surrounding the central region. The thermal shield is positioned about the perimeter region and extends transverse to the support surface of the support panel such that the thermal shield and the support panel define a storage space for accommodating the at least one vessel. The at least one shielding cavity is defined by the thermal shield and contains a shielding material during a lyophilization process. The shielding material is distinct from the target material.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a cover for a dryer. The dryer is adapted, when in operation, to heat a gas stream. The dryer includes a cover mounted to at least one section of an outer wall of the dryer, in particular a rear wall of the dryer. A passage through which the gas stream can flow is formed, at least sectionwise, by the cover. The cover can include a heating unit having at least one heating element such that the gas stream flows around the heating element when the dryer is in operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for upgrading coal comprising a baffle tower, inlet and exhaust plenums, and one or more cooling augers. The baffle tower comprises a plurality of alternating rows of inverted v-shaped inlet and outlet baffles. The inlet and outlet plenums are affixed to side walls of the baffle tower. Process gas enters the baffle tower from the inlet plenum via baffle holes in the side wall and dries the coal in the baffle tower. Process exhaust gas exits the baffle tower into the exhaust plenum via baffle holes in a different side wall of the baffle tower. Coal that enters the baffle tower descends by gravity downward through the baffle tower and enters a cooling auger, where the dried coal from the baffle tower is mixed with non-dried coal. A method of using the apparatus described above to upgrade coal.

Abstract: An article of infant footwear comprising an upper sock portion attached to a lower sole portion. The lower sole portion comprises a toe region and a heel region. A toe region, comprising a lip portion and a toe-cap, rises up from the front of the lower sole portion to surround and protect the toes of an infant's foot. The heel region comprises a heel member to protect the heel and surrounding tendons of an infant. The lower sole portion has an underside, a protruding layer, and stud protrusions providing traction, protection, and balance for an infant wearing the article of infant footwear.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a molded shoe featuring a 3 dimensional figure (e.g., an animal or character). The shoe has a sole having a bottom surface that comprises a series of projections and recesses that form a print for an animal or character, to thereby obtain an imprinting surface; and an upper, attached to the sole, having an outer surface that comprises a series of projections and recesses that form a three dimensional figure (e.g., an animal figure or a character figure). The sole and upper are substantially formed from molded plastic; the projections and recesses of the animal imprinting surface allow one wearing the shoe to make imprints on a soft surface, and the three dimensional figure on the outer surface of the upper relates to the print of the imprinting surface. The methods of the present invention further include making imprints with the bottom surface of the shoe.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a molded shoe featuring a 3 dimensional figure (e.g., an animal or character). The shoe has a sole having a bottom surface that comprises a series of projections and recesses that form a print for an animal or character, to thereby obtain an imprinting surface; and an upper, attached to the sole, having an outer surface that comprises a series of projections and recesses that form a three dimensional figure (e.g., an animal figure or a character figure). The sole and upper are substantially formed from molded plastic; the projections and recesses of the animal imprinting surface allow one wearing the shoe to make imprints on a soft surface, and the three dimensional figure on the outer surface of the upper relates to the print of the imprinting surface. The methods of the present invention further include making imprints with the bottom surface of the shoe.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a hiking boot attachment is provided that assists in the descent of slopes. The hiking boot attachment includes a platform that engages the underside of a mid-portion of a sole of a hiking boot, in a region under a ball of a hiker's foot. A strap system is attached to the platform and secures the platform to the hiking boot. Further, one or more supports are secured to the platform. The one or more supports each have a portion that extends downward from a bottom face of the platform to engage the ground and lift the platform above the ground. This may reduce incline of the hiking boot when descending a slope. The portions of the one or more supports that engage the ground deliver downward force to regions of ground disposed to lateral sides of the hiking boot, to promote stability.

Abstract: A riding boot for use with a stirrup, the riding boot including a sole for engaging the stirrup, the sole coupled to the riding boot and a magnetic member coupled to the sole. The magnetic member is a polymer including a magnetic metal.

Abstract: The present invention provides devices, methods, and kits for reducing joint pain and treating conditions of weight-bearing joints. The methods are accomplished through the use of a cushioned wedged insole kit that selectively reduces pressure by cushioning impact and redistributing forces away from affected joints or joint compartments. The kit includes a wedged slab and a neutral slab. The slabs may be trimmed using the kit's sizing chart to create medial or lateral wedged insoles for either the right or left foot. The slab construction may mimic the combination of fatty globules and the surrounding restricting fibrous network cushioning structures found in the foot.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides an excavation machine that is configured to minimize or otherwise account for the unintended stoppage (i.e., jamming/stalling) of a digger tool. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure a machine is provided with one or more drive systems that automatically stop and reverse to avoid excavation tool jamming. The machine and methods of the present disclosure provide an efficient method and machine for excavation operations.

Abstract: A hydraulically-operated ripper tool mounted as an attachment on a hydraulic arm of a carrier or excavator is used for demolition of large metal walled structures such as storage tanks in a very short time. The ripper tool has a sharp point for punching entry holes into the tank walls, so that no torch cutting of entry holes needs to be used, particularly where there might be volatile residues left in the tank. The ripper tool has a concave, sharp inner edge and is operated by the hydraulic arm in reciprocation so as to provide a shearing force to cut quickly through metal walls in “can-opener” fashion. The ripper tool facilitates making long vertical cuts into the tank wall from top to bottom, so that a series of vertical cuts can be made to weaken a side of the tank and allow the top of the tank structure to be brought down.

Abstract: A device for displaying advertisements has a plate member. An opening is formed in the plate member, wherein the opening is sized to fit a display screen of a desired dimension. Support arms are coupled to the plate member for securing the device to a storage device to which the device is installed.

Abstract: A label for a multi-well plate is provided including a visually observable indicia in a predetermined position on at least an upper side of a portion of the multi-well plate. The indicia has a color in contrast to the multi-well plate and is substantially permanently affixed to at least the upper side of the plate. A method for orienting plates using the label and a system of labeling are also provided.

Abstract: An illuminated sign that includes a base configured to face a front direction and configured to be placed in a first orientation and a second orientation when the base faces the front direction. A first character is configured to rotate with respect to the base between a first position facing the front direction and a second position facing the front direction. A second character is configured to rotate with respect to the base between the first position facing the front direction and the second position facing the front direction. A rotation mechanism is configured to enable at least one of the first character and the second character to rotate between the first and the second positions.

Abstract: A nameplate includes a fixing bracket and a plate. The fixing bracket includes a main body, a latching portion, and a resilient portion. The main body defines a mounting hole. The latching portion is formed on the main body and positioned adjacent to a periphery of the mounting hole. The resilient resisting portion protrudes radially from the main body and is partially received in the mounting hole of the main body. The plate is detachably and adjustably assembled to the fixing bracket and resists the resilient resisting portion of the fixing bracket. The plate has a latching member formed thereon. The latching member passes through the mounting hole and latches with the corresponding latching portion of the fixing bracket.

Abstract: An artwork protection device (2) having a set of brackets (1) that mount into a wall (18) which support a clear protective cover (14) over the front of a piece of hanging artwork (16). Each bracket has a footing (3) with a proximal end (4) and a distal end (5). The proximal end is attached to the wall using a screw, a bolt and a wall anchor and so forth. An extension (8) having a distal end (9) and a proximal end (10) that attaches to the distal end of the footing. The proximal end of the extension preferably has a recessed edge (12) that is placed through an aperture (13) located on a periphery of the protective cover. A cap (15) attaches to the proximal end of the extension, thereby locking the protective cover in place. The device allows a user to easily remove the protective cover and bracket extensions when the user wants to fully display the painting and to attach the caps directly to the footings to give an aesthetic appearance to the footings.

Abstract: A method and system for an inductively powering rail on a firearm to power accessories such as: telescopic sights, tactical sights, laser sighting modules, and night vision scopes. This is achieved by having primary and secondary electromagnets (U-Cores) on both the inductively powering rail and the accessory. Once the electromagnets are in contact, the accessory is able to obtain power through induction via the inductively powering rail. Accessories may be attached to various fixture points on the inductively powering rail and are detected by the firearm when attached and detached. When attached, power and data communications may flow between the accessory and a master CPU located on the firearm. Accessories that are attached to the inductively powering rail and have rechargeable power systems may be recharged via the inductive power rail. Further, accessories that have power that is not needed may be transferred to other accessories.

Abstract: A firearm accessory rail adaptor bracket includes a bracket body, a rifle attachment jaw assembly carried by the bracket body, a first jaw operating mechanism provided in the rifle attachment jaw assembly, a pistol attachment jaw assembly carried by the bracket body and a second jaw operating mechanism provided in the pistol attachment jaw assembly.

Abstract: A firearm cleaning apparatus for cleaning the bore of a firearm barrel with firearm cleaning solvent. The apparatus has a cleaning patch holding device for removable attachment to a cleaning rod. The cleaning patch holding device has a body for holding a cleaning cloth containing firearm cleaning solvent. The body has a core material and a protective coating covering the core material to prevent the core material from contacting the cleaning solvent.

Abstract: A mechanism for the disassembly of a handgun without triggering, which prevents the consequential accidental firing of a cartridge in the chamber upon triggering. The mechanism including a disassembler, sear catcher lever, sear catcher and a sear catcher spring. The disassembler has an eccentric pin. Rotation of the dissembler moves the sear catcher lever forward. The sear catcher spring pushes the sear catcher which abuts the other end of sear catcher lever. The sear catcher can catch the sear as soon as the sear is pressed downwards around the sear pin by the slide, and it can hold the sear beneath the plane of cocking of the firing pin. At the same time, the sear catcher blocks the firing pin safety lever if the sear catcher lever is in its utmost forward position. That way the cocking of the firing pin is prevented and the triggering is blocked.

Abstract: An improved aiming post light configuration wherein a luminescent material in conjunction with an optical taper or other magnification structure is positioned within the body of the aiming post along with a recharge circuit which recharges the luminescent material periodically or when light output from the luminescent material falls below a predetermined threshold. Advantageously, the entire configuration may be integral to the aiming post itself.

Abstract: A concealed hook fish lure is disclosed. In one embodiment, a lure body contains an interior body cavity wherein is placed a hook that is pivotally mounted on a bar with a spring biased to rotate the hook. In the non-deployed position, the hook is concealed and retracted within the lure up to the moment of the strike. At the moment of the strike, the fish compresses a hook trigger clip which releases the hook, which is then pivoted upwardly into the mouth of the fish, thereby facilitating the setting of the hook in the fish's mouth. The lure is useful in waters containing weeds and other debris, and provides improvements with respect to a simple mechanism for deploying the hook, and the ability to deploy hooks in multiple directions relative to the lure body. The hook may also be readily retracted to and cocked in its concealed position following a strike.

Abstract: The fish sack carrier is of a fish-like shape especially designed to carry a single, large fish, such as a mature salmon, secured upon the fisherman's back in a longitudinal position with its head downward. This position comfortably distributes the weight of the fish over the fisherman's shoulder and back and allows the fisherman to use his hands to carry other equipment. A unique shoulder strap system stabilizes and balances the fish in this position, and allows the simultaneous carrying of more fish by connecting additional fish sacks to a common shoulder strap. The fish sack carrier is constructed of lightweight and durable materials, is washable after use, and can be folded into a small packet for pocket storage.

Abstract: The animal trap of the present invention includes a tubular body with an open forward end and a closed rear end. A spring loaded restraint is pivotally mounted on the body so as to be movable between open and closed positions. A latch on the body engages the restraint to set the restraint in the open position. A trigger on the body engages the latch to set the trap. The trigger is movable in opposite forward and rearward directions by an animal, such as a raccoon, reaching its paw into the housing and pushing or pulling the trigger leg, such that the latch is disengaged and releases the restraint, which is forced by a spring to the closed position to catch the animal's paw in the tubular body.

Abstract: This device consists of a portable frame of non-conductive material that has a plurality of separate grids of conductive material. The grid is broken into two or three separate pieces depending on the model. The first piece is the positive electric potential, the second is the negative electric potential and the third, (if used) is the grounded safety shield. The apparatus attaches to a surface, such as a window, mirror, wall, etc, via devices that connect to the frame such as: suction cups, hooks, dowels, etc. Power the electric grid is provided using either 110VAC or batteries. A removable tray is located at the base of the grid to catch dead insects for convenient disposal.

Abstract: An insect and arachnid trap (10, 100) comprises a substrate (12) having a top surface (14) onto which a sticky substance (24) is deposited. One embodiment of the trap (10) is provided with a reinforcing rib (26) to reinforce the thin sheet substrate. The trap (10, 100) may also have a channel (22, 22) into which the sticky substance (24) is deposited. The top surface (14) may have a smooth finish and be inclined to the horizontal in order to prevent trapped insects and arachnids from extricating themselves from the sticky substance. The sticky substance is a composition which includes polybutene oil and polyisobutylene. The sticky substance preferably includes 5-15 wt % polyisobutylene. This sticky substance in combination with the channel and smooth top surface provides an insect and arachnid trap which is more effective than known examples. The reinforcing rib ensures that the substrate (12) does not fold back upon itself when handled after use. Contact with trapped insects or arachnids is thus avoided.

Abstract: A root watering system has a porous body and an end assembly connected to the porous body. The end assembly has a fluid emitter and integrally defines an inlet passage for directing fluid to the fluid emitter for providing fluid to the porous body. The assembly also may be fitted with an integral valve.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device comprising a trough (2) with a base wall (4) and side walls (5), said trough (2) designed to contain a liquid and a tray (3) for placing in the trough (2), for supporting a growing substrate with at least one well (15), the bottom of which communicates with the liquid in the trough (2) each of which has an adjacent breaking zone (7, 12), the cutting of which permits the device to be divided up.

Abstract: An improved plant container comprised of a cement or stucco exterior coating over wire mesh enclosed polystyrene block segments formed from smaller cube segments. This provides for a planter lighter in weight with effective drainage and moisture retention. The planter allows for effective illuminated signage displays for various advertising.

Abstract: A counterbalance system for a tilt-in window and its method of operation. Posts are provided on the sides of a tilt-in window sash that rotate when the sash is tilted. A brake structure is attached to each post. Each brake structure has a first contoured surface that rotates with the post when said sash is tilted. A second contoured surface is provided within the window track. The second contoured surface moves up and down in the track with the post but does not rotate with the post when the sash is tilted. When the window sash is tilted for cleaning, the first contoured surface moves against the second contoured surface within the window track. A cam action occurs that moves the first contoured surface away from the second contoured surface. This causes the brake structure to be biased against the track and lock in a fixed position within the track.

Abstract: A fastening strip (10, 30) and seal (40) arrangement are described. By use of a plurality of individual retention elements (20) that are coupled—either integrally or separate—to the fastening strip it is possible to effect inter-engagement of the seal and strip. The retention elements are received into the seal, which is deformable and engages with the retention elements to effect the retention of the fastening strip to the seal.

Abstract: A retractable load-bearing cover apparatus is selectively deployable and retractable along a track defining a path of travel between first and second terminus points. The load-bearing cover apparatus includes a plurality of sections that are deployable along the track in a first direction, and retractable along the track in a second, opposite direction, wherein adjacent ones of the plurality of sections are releasably engagable to one another. The cover apparatus includes a drive system for deploying and retracting the sections along the track, and a storage system for disengaging the sections and arranging such disengaged sections into a vertically stacked orientation.

Abstract: A stepped structure (100) comprising a plurality of separate run portions (1), wherein at least one of said plurality of separate run portions (1) comprises upper and lower sheets (20) each sheet having a forward longitudinal end portion (14, 24) bent downwards and a rear longitudinal end portion (12, 22) bent upwards, and a core material (30) between said upper and lower sheets (10, 20).

Abstract: A molded hip, ridge or rake shingle is provided that is shaped to fit over angled intersecting planar surface of a roof hip, ridge or rake, by making a shingle precursor and draping it in heated condition over a rack having surfaces that have an included angle therebetween to cool and take form, such that portions of the shingle precursor conform to the surfaces of the rack, at a desired predetermined included angle between the shingle precursor portions, to form a hip, ridge or rake shingle with shingle portions having the desired included angle between the shingle portions. The shingle is formed according to the process, and on an apparatus, to produce the shingles that can be applied to a roof, in an array of shingles.

Abstract: A building is provided with integrated natural systems that reduce dependency on external resources to operate and maintain the building. A source of electricity is provided through an extensive set of solar panels that may be incorporated on louvers mounted to the exterior of the building. The building has a double insulative layer to include an outer airtight membrane or cover, and an internal building structure that defines habitable space within the structure. Rainwater may be collected and stored within a subsurface well. The space between the internal structure and outer membrane may support the growth of vegetation in a greenhouse environment. A flow of temperature regulated air is provided through the structure by a set of underground pipes in which the air is circulated through a central core of the building, into the habitable space, and then outward into the greenhouse space.

Abstract: A mast assembly having a base, and a mast pivotally connected to the base for movement between a horizontal and an upright position. A linear actuator is connected between the base and the mast and is extensible to move mast about the pivot. A strut is selectively positioned between the mast and the base to inhibit pivotal movement toward the horizontal position during lifting of the mast. A plurality of abutments on the base permits selective connection between the actuator and the base. The strut position supports the mast while said actuator is moved between the abutments.

Abstract: For uncoupling a building structure from the ground a sliding pendulum bearing is suitable for the protection of building structures in the case of movements of the ground, due to earthquakes for example, or as an alternative for conventional deformation bearings. The bearing has a first sliding face with a first concave sliding face and a sliding shoe, which is in sliding contact with the first sliding face of the first sliding plate. A low friction material of a low-friction plastic is entrapped in the sliding shoe which has elastoplastic equilibrium properties. In particular as a low friction material a ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is utilized. After a displacement entailed by an external force the sliding shoe returns of its own accord into a stable equilibrium position.

Abstract: A solar panel array support system including a plurality of removable, interengaged adjacent support modules of similar configuration. Each support module mounts a PV solar panel, and also a DC-AC inverter electrically connected to the solar panel. The DC-AC inverter is also electrically connectable to additional DC-AC inverters mounted to the adjacent solar panel support modules. Each support module includes flexible male connector elements that enter a slot forming a female connector element in an adjacent support module to pivotally and removably engage each support module to another. Individual modules or a plurality of solar panel support modules can be readily removed from and replaced in a solar panel array, and can be readily removed and installed to form a second modular solar panel array.

Abstract: This invention relates generally to a staircase that can roll to an upright position when not in use and considers safety standards. More particularly, the invention is directed to a staircase that can be used where space is limited as the staircase's footprint can be minimized when not in use.

Abstract: In some embodiments, a sunlight collection system has an upper portion with prismatic elements and a lower cylindrical portion extending from the periphery of the upper portion down to terminate in an open lower end through which light can pass. In certain embodiments, a prism ring is positioned within the cylindrical portion and is configured to refract sunlight entering the sunlight collection system.

Abstract: A composite reinforced mull post is disclosed for use in an entryway assembly. The mull post may engage a door on one side and a side light window on the other side. The mull post may comprise a one or two piece outer portion and one or more internal reinforcing members. The outer portion may comprise a plurality of interlocking pieces. The pieces may include a stop portion and a support portion, each with interlocking ribs. A first internal reinforcing member may be formed of engineered material such as a wood laminate, and a second reinforcing member may comprise a channel that extends partially around the first reinforcing member. The reinforcing member may include orthogonal portions conterminously received within a correspondingly shaped central chamber formed by the housing formed by the joined interlocking pieces.

Abstract: A building structure comprises a post having a vertically extending longitudinal face. A plurality of horizontal logs extends from said longitudinal face and has an end face in abutment with said longitudinal face. The post having an undercut channel in said longitudinal face and extends along said post. At least one of said end faces has a recess aligned with said undercut channel, and a spline assembly extends between said post and said log to secure said log to said post. The spline assembly includes a key located in and extends between said channel and said recess and an insert in one of said undercut channel and said recess. The insert co operates with said key to facilitate relative sliding movement therebetween.

Abstract: A wall guard for use around wall corners is disclosed in which the wall guard includes a pair of retainers are flexibly mounted to one another. The retainers are coupled to one another by way of an adhesive tape material that extends over the back sides of the retainers. A cover is secured to the pair of retainers for absorbing impacts from passing traffic to thereby protect the corner of the wall against wear and tear.

Abstract: A wall forming system that uses a pair of panels in combination with a furring strip assembly and retainer The pair of panels are placed in spaced relation using the combination of the furring strip assembly and the retainer wherein the furring strip assembly holds the exterior of the panels while the retainer is disposed between the panels to hold them at a predetermined distance. By holding the panels at a predetermined distance concrete is poured within the cavity formed between the panels to create a wall.

Abstract: Disclosed is a retrofit arrangement for securing a new roof structure above an already existing roof structure. The system uses thermal blocks placed crosswise between the ribs on the existing roof structure. Above a series of these thermal blocks, a longitudinal support strip is provided onto which a plurality of clips can be fastened. The blocks provide thermal resistance, and enable a reduction in number of fasteners required for assembly.