Abstract: A wringer has a support surface and a first wringer surface depending from the support surface to a second wringer surface having perforations and curving to a free edge substantially below the support surface. The second wringer surface may be curved in an approximately 180 degree arc. The first wringer surface may be flat and also perforated. The support surface may be formed as an inverted channel structure with a closed upper surface and an angled surface extending away from the first wringer surface. The angled surface may extend at an angle approximately 45 degrees. The wringer may be used with one or more buckets, where the wringer is supported from the rim of one bucket or from the adjacent rims of two buckets. A flat first wringer surface may be used to ring a flat mop, and the curved second wringer surface may be used to wring a round mop.

Abstract: This invention relates to a dusting system (1) comprising a dusting tool (20) with a cleaning portion (21) connected to a handle (22), and an elongated chamber (10) for holding the dusting tool. The chamber comprises a storage compartment (15) arranged for storing at least a part of the cleaning portion as the dusting tool is inserted into the chamber, and a cleaning compartment (11) arranged between the opening (13) of the chamber and the storing compartment (15). Further, an outlet channel (12) is arranged for enabling fluid communication between the chamber and a vacuum source. The outlet channel is arranged at the cleaning compartment, thereby enabling a cleaning of the cleaning portion upon insertion or extraction of the cleaning portion into or from the storage compartment. The system may be a self standing unit or be integrated into a vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: A robot cleaner system includes docking structure to allow a dust discharge port of a robot cleaner to come into close contact with a dust suction port of a docking station without an additional drive device. The robot cleaner system includes a robot cleaner having a dust discharge port, a docking station having a dust suction port to suction dust collected in the robot cleaner, and a docking device to perform a seesaw movement as it contacts the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner docks with the docking station, to allow the dust suction port to come into close contact with the dust discharge port. The docking device includes a link member installed in the docking station in a pivotally rotatable manner, one end having a contact portion to come into contact with the robot cleaner, and the other end having a docking portion defining the dust suction port therein.

Abstract: An extractor cleaning machine includes a base or foot having a distribution nozzle and a suction nozzle. A suction source fluidly communicates with the suction nozzle, and a distributor fluidly communicates with the distribution nozzle. The distributor delivers cleaning fluid to the distribution nozzle and has first and second non-zero operating speeds. A first manually operable actuator associated with the distributor changes the distributor from the first operating speed to the second operating speed. The distributor also includes a third non-zero operating speed, and a second manually operable actuator associated with the distributor changes the distributor from the second operating speed to the third operating speed.

Abstract: An auxiliary apparatus for better vacuum cleaning effect, comprising: a first frame, formed with a first entrance and a first exit connected to the first entrance by a channel; a second frame, formed with a second entrance and a second exit, both arranged at positions between the first entrance and the first exit while being connected to the channel; and an energy harvester, wherein an airflow entering the first frame through the first entrance is split into a first airflow and a second airflow while enabling the first airflow to flow toward the first exit and the second airflow to flow into the second frame through the second entrance where it is guided toward the energy harvester for driving the same, and then the second airflow is guided to flow out of the second exit and enters the first frame for merging with the first airflow.

Abstract: A mobility apparatus for transporting objects along a surface includes first and second slider arrangements for supporting an object to be transported. The first and second slider arrangements have a low friction lower surface and a high friction upper surface. The first and second slider arrangements are coupled by a common strap having first and second ends. The mobility apparatus further comprises a loop located near the second end, securing the second slider arrangement to a fixedly attached connection with the common strap. The mobility apparatus further includes first and second openings located in the first slider arrangement such that the first slider arrangement in an unloaded condition freely moves along an adjustment length of the common strap.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hinge for a buggy, stroller, etc. for infants. The hinge includes a first hinge member and a second hinge member. Hinge member includes a first hinge end and a connecting end to connect to a first structural member of an infant support apparatus along a first axis. The second hinge member includes a hinge end and a connecting end to connect to structural member of the infant support apparatus along a second axis. The hinge members are pivotal about an axis between a bent condition wherein the first and second longitudinal axes are non-aligned and a straight condition wherein the first and second longitudinal axes are generally aligned. The hinge ends are configured such that the amount of the profiles which overlap prevent the formation of a finger trap.

Abstract: Resiliently movable fingers receive a portion of a foldable handle therebetween to retain the handle against folding relative to a frame.

Abstract: The metal locking tie includes a tie body and a bi-level head. The tie body includes a first end and a second end. The first end of the tie body is secured to the bi-level head. The bi-level head includes a roof, a bottom wall, a primary head floor and a secondary head floor. The bi-level head also includes a locking ball positioned within the head. The primary head floor includes a locking displacement hole for receiving the locking ball. When the second end of the tie body is tensioned, the locking ball moves toward the locking displacement hole to secure the tie body in the bi-level head.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to closure mechanisms, such as a closure latch device for clamping a band. The closure latch comprises a first and second latch member engaged to pivot relative to each other. Certain embodiments relate to methods of clamping a band. Certain embodiments relate to methods of manufacturing a clamping device.

Abstract: A clamping device (1) for bridging two elements (2a, 2b, 200a), which can be brought closer to each other, with at least one tensioning belt (6, 60) connected with an element (2a, 200a). The tensioning belt engages into an allocated turnbuckle (4) connected with the other element (2b) and is movable with it. The tensioning belt (6, 60) and the turnbuckle (4) are each mountable on the allocated element (2a, 2b, 200a) by a positive plug-in connection. The elements, which can be brought closer to each other (2a, 2b, 200a), are provided with formed retaining structure (10, 100) defined as projections emerging from their plane. The end portion of the tensioning belt (6, 60) facing away from the turnbuckle (4) and a turnbuckle belt (5) defined as a belt lug being applied on the turnbuckle (4) and in opposite direction to the tensioning belt (6, 60) are provided with counter-retaining structure (13, 130) which can be attached on the retaining means (10, 100) of the elements.

Abstract: A slider is provided which can be mounted on a zipper without any pre-activation, particularly zippers which are opened by squeezing together a portion of the profiles wherein a fulcrum effect is achieved to separate the profiles. The slider omits at least part of the zipper opening elements so that the user must squeeze the slider together in order to urge the zipper profiles apart thereby opening the zipper.

Abstract: Disclosed are adhesive systems and methods of making and using such systems. Exemplary adhesive systems include protrusions and/or grooves that can interleave to form a reversible adhesive interaction.

Abstract: A device for handling or storing one or more items, has a pair of generally rigid jaw members each having a hinge end and an outer end. The jaw members have a first, open position in which the outer ends are spaced apart to define a receiving space and a plurality of closed positions. The jaw members are self aligned and one of them has an engagement member to engage the other. The engagement member is separate from either jaw member, and may therefore be made of a different material.

Abstract: A clamping system with a clamping nut and a wrench for tightening the clamping nut, wherein the clamping nut includes at least one recess on either the outside edge or the inside edge of the end face of the clamping nut to receive projections of the wrench. The edge opposite the edge with at least one recess is closed. The at least one recess is provided with at least one undercut, which the projections of the wrench can grip from underneath.

Abstract: A stent crimping and coating apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of crimping blades positioned in a radial array and collectively forming a central crimping lumen, wherein the plurality of crimping blades radially movable to alter the diameter of the central crimping lumen. Each of the crimping blades includes a first surface configured to at least in part define the central crimping lumen. One or more of the crimping blades includes a fluid channel extending therein and a plurality of openings in fluid communication with the fluid channel. The plurality of openings are located at the first surface of the one or more crimping blades and adapted to discharge a fluid into the central crimping lumen.

Abstract: A lateral pipe lining material having a flange on one end thereof is installed on a head collar which is hermetically mounted on a pressure bag that stores the lateral pipe lining material. The head collar comprises a curved section and a cylindrical section projecting from the curved section. An expandable member is mounted to the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical section of the head collar, and expanded so that the outer circumferential surface of the expanding member comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface near the flange, and the inner circumferential surface thereof comes into close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical section of the head collar. This allows a hermetical connection between the lateral pipe lining material and the head collar and ensures a reliable eversion and insertion of the lining material into a lateral pipe.

Abstract: A method of rebuilding an off-highway truck body by replacing the entire body floor with a replacement body floor specifically built for the intended application of the truck body. Custom-built replacement body floors are thus used to successfully rebuild the off-highway truck body to specific applications with minimum effort.

Abstract: A method for producing doctor blades from metal, in particular from steel, the doctor blades to be produced having a reduced material thickness in a region of a working edge. The material thickness is essentially constant in the region of reduced material thickness. By a planing operation being used upon a basic body with an essentially constant material thickness, the region of reduced material thickness is generated. By the region of reduced material thickness being generated by means of a planing operation, an efficient and cost-effective method for the production of doctor blades is achieved.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for reducing and constraining EMI (electronic magnetic radiation) emissions without affecting the internals of data storage system components. A baffle is attached to the exterior of the housing of a data storage system component by baffle mounts. The baffle is operable between a closed position, where the baffle blocks EMI emitted by connectors on the data storage system component, and an open position, where the connectors are not blocked allowing for servicing and cable management. The baffle may comprise an EMI absorbing material and be tuned to meet specific EMI requirements. The baffle mounts offsets the baffle from the data storage system component and the baffle includes a number of holes to allow airflow. The adjustable EMI baffling apparatus does not interfere with other mounted components while the data storage system component is mounted in a cabinet.

Abstract: A method for installing a spring-assisted liftgate in opposition to the gravity force includes temporarily fixing a coupling rod in a defined position corresponding to an installation position of the liftgate, and holding the in an open position or in an intermediate position above the installation position and placing the apparatus in the vehicle. After lowering the liftgate from the open position or intermediate position into the installation position, the coupling rod is connected to the hinge lever and then released.

Abstract: A method and system of affixing a plaque to a solid surface is provided. The method includes the steps of providing at least one opening in a face of the solid surface and inserting a plaque support into the at least one opening. The plaque support includes a body defining a passageway therethrough and having a first end and a second end. The first end has a flange portion. Further, at least one outer tab member extends radially outward toward the first end and at least one inner tab member extends radially inward toward the second end. The outer tab member engages the solid surface upon insertion of the plaque support into the at least one opening. The method and system further include providing the plaque with at least one installation fastener. The at least one installation fastener is inserted into the passageway of the plaque support, such that the at least one inner tab member engages the at least one installation fastener.

Abstract: A method for clamping a plate on a sheet or fabric material support, comprises the step of providing a plate and a counter-plate, the plate comprising a plurality of oin supporting elements bearing, on a non exposed to the view rear side thereof a plurality of pins for engagement each in a corresponding hole of the counter-plate, characterized in that method further comprises the step of providing a pre-plate including a plurality of temporary attachment points on non exposed to the view parts of said elements.

Abstract: In a method for producing a commutator ring for a commutator of an electric machine, the lamellae of a commutator ring are formed of an electrically conductive, deformable band material, and they have at least one recess running in the longitudinal direction of the band material, before a desired number of the formed lamellae are closed to form the commutator ring. After the closing of the lamellae to form the commutator ring, a reinforcing ring made of an electrically nonconductive, deformation-resistant material is introduced into the recess and is fixed in the recess by plastic deformation of the lamellae of the commutator ring.

Abstract: A method for printing an electrical conductor on a substrate has been developed. In the method, a reverse image of the electrical conductor pattern is printed on a substrate with an electrically non-conductive material to form a second pattern that exposes a portion of the surface area of the substrate. The entire surface area of the substrate is then covered with an electrically conductive material. The non-conductive material of the reverse image electrically isolates the electrically conductive material covering the reverse image from the electrically conductive material covering the second pattern.

Abstract: A method for attaching antennae to RFID tags is disclosed. Included is the use of RFID tags having asymmetrical interconnect system for one or more antennae, such that virtually any rotational orientation of the RFID tag will result in a successful antennae attachment. Two oversized and “L” shaped gold-bumped holes can be arranged on the same side of the ship in an opposing action, such that at least one axis of symmetry is formed. Accordingly, virtually all rotational orientations of the chip are then acceptable when attaching a pair of opposing pole antenna leads. Alternatively, a pair of poles can be located on opposing chips surfaces, such that antenna substrates can be attached to both the top and bottom of the chip to form a product “sandwich”, whereby the rotational orientation of the chip is irrelevant at an antenna attachment step.

Abstract: A method for assembling a portable computing device is disclosed. A number of operational components can be inserted into an extruded seamless housing through either a top or bottom opening in the housing. In some embodiments the housing can be radio frequency transparent so that the operational components disposed within the housing can send and receive wireless signals. The operational components can be aligned by internal rails disposed within the housing for positioning and supporting the operational components in an assembled position.

Abstract: A system is provided that increases the spindle stiffness of a disk drive while optimizing power consumption. A multipurpose bearing provides axial stiffness and enhanced stiffness against radial and pitch loads applied to the spindle. When used in combination with a journal bearing, conventional thrust bearings may be eliminated without sacrificing overall stiffness. As a result, the height of the disk drive may be reduced, thereby making the system desirable to be used in smaller electronic devices.

Abstract: A method of forming a micro-electrical-mechanical structure (MEMS), includes forming a plurality of electrodes on a substrate, forming a beam structure in electrical contact with a first of the electrodes, and bending the beam structure with a thermal process. The method further includes forming a cantilevered electrode extending over an end of the bent beam structure, and returning the beam structure to its original position, which will contact the cantilevered electrode in a normally closed position.

Abstract: A component supplying apparatus which is appended to the electronic component working apparatus, for supplying electronic components to the electronic component working apparatus is provided. The component supplying apparatus includes a component storing section which stores the electronic components, and movement range regulator. The movement range regulator allows the component storing section to move between a supply position P1 which is set for supplying the electronic components and a retracted position P2 to which the component storing section is retracted for the purpose of maintenance of the electronic component working apparatus. In addition, the movement range regulator regulates the range of relative movement of the component storing section with respect to the electronic component working apparatus to a movement amount L4 that is previously established.

Abstract: A microcircuit deposition system incorporates a first printing engine for depositing a dielectric on a substrate. A microwire spooling machine houses a microwire spool and incorporates a tension guide to position a microwire trace onto the dielectric layer. A second printing engine trails the microwire spooling machine to deposit a covering dielectric layer over the microwire trace.

Abstract: A magazine for mounting twist locks includes a rotatably mounted drum having a plurality of axially oriented elongated guide elements, which are arranged at a distance from each other on the circumference of the drum and the longitudinal axes of which are oriented parallel to each other. The distance between the guide elements is larger than the diameter of a concave section of a respective twist lock and the guide elements form the support for the terminal sections of the twist lock. Closing elements are arranged at each end of the drum and delimit the intermediate spaces formed by the guide elements in the radial direction. One closing element is arranged in a non-rotatable manner and has a radially oriented recess for inserting twist locks between two guide elements in the axial direction.

Abstract: A light strip includes a conductive plate including at least two first conductive strips, at least one column second conductive strips; first electric conductors including light sources soldered at said distance between said second conductive strips, second electric conductors soldered between said first conductive strips and said second conductive strips the light strip of the present invention not only has simple structures, but also has good stability.

Abstract: A method for insulating wires is disclosed. A portion of the plurality of wires and an insulating material are placed in a tube having an open end. Pressure is applied to the tube. During the application of pressure, the tube, the plurality of wires, and the insulating material are heated to a temperature above a melting point of the insulating material. As a result, the insulating material is melted and driven toward the open end of the tube. Upon removal of the heat, the insulating material solidifies and forms a barrier proximal to the open end of the tube.

Abstract: A method of modifying the oil cooling system of a diesel engine an engine oil supply outlet located in a horizontal plan includes the steps of removing the original equipment liquid-to-liquid heat exchanger and installing a manifold having an oil outlet port directed to a remote oil cooler and a bypass water passage providing an un-branched flow of water, whereby the flow of oil is directed to a remote oil cooler and the entirety of the flow of water in the bypass water passage is discharged back to the water cooling system of the engine without passing through an oil cooling or water cooling heat exchanger.

Abstract: A method for the milling machining of components is disclosed. The method produces recesses with one or more lateral walls, in particular for the production of integrally bladed rotors for gas turbines, the recesses forming flow channels and the lateral walls forming blade surfaces of an integrally bladed rotor. The component to be machined by milling is clamped in a locating device for the milling machining. To adjust the vibrational properties of the component to be machined by milling, areas of the component are embedded in and/or filled with a machinable plastic.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the automated installation of solar (photovoltaic or PV) modules is disclosed. Embodiments comprise a conveyor system configured to support and deliver a plurality of photovoltaic modules, and a clampless mounting framework comprising an upper rail and a lower rail, the upper and lower rails configured and spaced apart to receive and secure a photovoltaic module. The mounting framework does not require clamps, so once the modules are delivered into place, physical installation is complete.

Abstract: Among other things, a printhead is formed by actions that include providing a body of silicon material, forming in the body of silicon material at least a portion of a flow path in which fluid is to be pressurized, and forming in the body of silicon material at least a portion of a deaerator partition between a first region and a second region that are connected by a passageway. The deaerator partition is configured to remove gases or bubbles from the fluid. The first region is to be characterized by a first air pressure and the second region is to be characterized by an air pressure different for the first air pressure.

Abstract: This invention provided a manufacturing method to process a small-diameter step section 18 on an inside end section of a hub body 13a that comprises an outward facing flange 15 and a positioning cylinder 16 stably and with high precision. In this invention, an intermediate material 40 is pressed between a lower punch 36 and an upper punch 46 with an outer peripheral surface of the intermediate material 40 being held by a lower die 37 and an upper die 43, and then a part of the intermediate material 40 is pressed into the lower punch 36 such that the small-diameter step section 18 is formed by cold plastic working.

Abstract: A body hanger bracket aligns and attaches an accent panel to a vehicle body panel. The hanger bracket includes selectively detachable first and second alignment tabs. The first alignment tab engages a horizontal indexing feature on the vehicle body panel for aligning the hanger bracket horizontally and the second alignment tab engages a vertical indexing feature on the vehicle body panel for aligning the hanger bracket vertically. After the hanger bracket is aligned and attached to the body panel, the first and second alignment tabs are detached. The accent panel is then attached to the hanger bracket.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel draw and return system including a plate, a first fuel tube secured to the plate, and a second fuel tube secured to the plate, wherein the first and second fuel tubes are secured to one another and to the plate to define a triangular shaped connection configuration.

Abstract: This is an improved method of manufacturing building panels and wall sections so that the manufacture of these panels and walls will be more efficient and economical. The building panels and walls have an inner insulator core and two substantially parallel surface materials which are connected together by connector ties. The panels and walls are described in an earlier invention by the present inventor in U.S. Pat. No. 7,073,306 by Hagaman (2006). Included in the present invention are mechanisms and manufacturing machines which produce building panels in a continuous manner. This continuous manufacturing machinery is economical to build, economical to use, and energy efficient in its operation. Other improvements of the present invention are the manufacturing ability to readily make building panels of different thicknesses, widths and heights, quickly insert and attach connecting ties, and improve quality of the building panels.

Abstract: A method for servicing a coupling connecting two non-collinear shafts, which coupling includes a pair of sleeves each having a yoke provided at an end portion thereof, a knuckle provided between each yoke that includes a body having a plurality of openings, a plurality of bushings each positioned in one of the openings, and a plurality of separate pins threadingly engaged to the yokes for releasably connecting the yokes to the knuckle. The method includes loosening a pair of opposed pins on one of the yokes such that an end portion of each pin is spaced from the corresponding bushing, which disengages that yoke from the knuckle, separating the disengaged yoke from the coupling, removing a worn bushing, inserting a different bushing in the opening, positioning the yoke to reengage the knuckle and tightening the pins on the yoke until the end portion of each pin engages the corresponding bushing.

Abstract: The utensil attachments for a portable knife assembly include at least one utensil attachment having an elongate handle and a working section disposed at the distal end thereof. The working section can be in the shape of eating utensils, such as a spoon bowl or fork tines. An elongate, hollow connection socket is formed inside the handle and constructed to mount the utensil attachment to an existing corkscrew in the knife assembly. When assembled, the relatively large, elongate body of the knife assembly provides an easy to manipulate ergonomic handle requiring minimal physical effort from the disabled or those with limited motor control.

Abstract: This invention relates to a dual-blade cutting device used for cutting strips from films and sheets. Particularly, in the cutting device of the invention, the blades are not exposed to the outside during the non-use position. Also, in the use position, the exposure is minimal to the operator. Therefore, using the cutting device of the invention renders the operation safe for the cutting operator.

Abstract: A knife having an interlocking arrangement between handle assembly and the blade assembly provides a durable connection between the knife's blade and handle. Additionally, by directly connecting the blade assembly to the hilt section of the knife, the connection between the blade assembly and handle assembly is not only strong, but also, the size of the blade is not limited by the size of the hilt section on the handle assembly.

Abstract: A method of determining a correction parameter for use in effecting alignment of a component of a metrological apparatus in at least one direction is described which includes: positioning an artefact on a support surface of a turntable of the metrological apparatus so that a measurement surface of the artefact is asymmetric with respect to a rotation axis of the turntable in the at least one direction; using a measurement probe of the measurement instrument to make a first measurement of the measurement surface; rotating the turntable; using the measurement probe of the measurement instrument to make a second measurement of the measurement surface after rotation of the turntable; and determining a correction parameter from the first and second measurements.

Abstract: In a first aspect, a method of drying at least a portion of a substrate located within a fluid is provided. The method includes contacting an edge of the substrate that is located within the fluid with a pusher pin. The pusher pin has (a) a shaft portion; and (b) a tip portion having a knife edge of a width of 0.42 inches or less, the tip portion adapted to contact and support the substrate with the knife edge. The method further includes lifting the substrate from the fluid with the pusher pin; and exposing the substrate to a drying vapor as the substrate is lifted from the fluid. Numerous other aspects are provided.

Abstract: A midsole for a shoe comprising an upper midsole and a lower midsole, and further comprising a reinforcing member being embedded in between the upper midsole and the lower midsole. The reinforcing member includes a foot-shaped reinforcing plate and a plurality of wings being repeatedly rounded alternately upwards and downwards, and a plurality of grooves being formed on both sides of a bottom surface of the upper midsole, and a plurality of ribs forming both sides of the lower midsole, in which the ribs correspond to the wings of the reinforcing member and the wings are exposed to the outside of the midsole. The midsole disperses shock and allows for an easy walking motion.

Abstract: Impact-attenuation systems, e.g., for use in footwear, can help control foot positioning during a step cycle, e.g., to help reduce or eliminate misorientation of the foot, and the fatigue and/or strain that may result from such misorientation. Articles of footwear including such impact-attenuation systems may include: (a) an upper member; and (b) a sole structure engaged with the upper member. The sole structure may include: (i) a first impact-attenuating member located in a heel portion of the foot-supporting member, and (ii) a second, separate impact-attenuating member located at a rear, lateral heel portion. The second impact-attenuating member may be designed and/or configured to provide less resistance to an impact force as compared with the first impact-attenuating member.