Abstract: A game comprising: a board, game pieces, money, game cards, assets, charitable objects, dice and rules, the game so constructed and arranged that acquisition of the assets must be balanced by contribution to a community in order to win the game.

Abstract: A compressible sealing ring assembly seals an annulus between a radially outer member and a radially inner member. The sealing ring comprises one or more sealing ring members (28), a radially outer wall for sealing with the inner wall of the radially outer member and radially inner wall for sealing with the outer wall of the radially inner member. A compression ring member (10) having a concave lower surface and a convex upper surface exerts an axial force on a sealing ring member to deform the sealing ring member to maintain a seal.

Abstract: A high-thermal-conductivity piston ring having excellent scuffing resistance and wear resistance, which can be used in a high-heat-load environment in engines is provided. Also, to provide a piston ring with low friction for contributing to the improvement of fuel efficiency, a TiN coating as thick as 10-60 ?m, in which the texture coefficient of a (111) plane is 1.2-1.65 in X-ray diffraction on the coating surface, with the texture coefficient of a (111) plane>the texture coefficient of a (220) plane>the texture coefficient of a (200) plane, is formed under the optimized ion plating conditions on a peripheral surface of the piston ring. Further, to obtain excellent sliding characteristics with low friction without losing excellent thermal conductivity of TiN, a hard amorphous carbon coating is formed on the TiN coating.

Abstract: A seal assembly includes a semi-tubular sealing element defining a longitudinal axis, and a retainer configured to retain the sealing element. The sealing element has a longitudinal center portion and first and second longitudinal side portions, an array of resilient arcuate fingers extending from the first longitudinal side portion and curving partially around the longitudinal axis, and a depressor portion extending from the second longitudinal side portion and having a free edge diametrically opposed to the center portion. The retainer defines a channel with an entrance opening, the channel being configured to receive the sealing element in a position in which the depressor portion extends outside of the entrance opening in position to bear a load, the channel being defined by a pair of opposed side walls configured to resiliently capture the sealing element.

Abstract: A boot unit may comprise a boot that includes a small diameter portion formed at one side, a large diameter portion form at the other side, and a wrinkle portion formed between the small diameter portion and the large diameter portion, a bushing that is integrally formed with an interior circumference or an exterior circumference in a circumferential direction and having a predetermined thickness, and a band that is formed in the bushing along the circumferential direction of the bushing and has substantially a ring shape.

Abstract: A multiple pivoted lathe chuck jaw assembly utilizes a plurality of baseplates each having one or more sub-jaws pivotably attached thereto. Each baseplate is configured for attachment to, or is part of, the radially movable elements of a lathe chuck. Further, each baseplate has two pivotably attached sub-jaws. Each sub-jaw has two compression and two expansion workpiece gripping surfaces extending generally outwards from the front face of the baseplate: a first tier compression gripping surface, a second tier compression gripping surface, a first tier expansion gripping surface, and a second tier expansion gripping surface. The gripping surfaces each approximate a curved shape that matches the shape of a circle of a given radius allowing the sub-jaws to pivot and self-align to the workpiece surface for maximum surface contact and gripping force. Force-directed serrations can provide additional holding force toward the face of the chuck.

Abstract: A vehicle height adjustment apparatus, includes: a front wheel side changing unit capable of changing a front wheel side relative position; a rear wheel side changing unit capable of changing a rear wheel side relative position; and a control unit for adjusting a height of the main body of the vehicle by controlling the front wheel side changing unit and the rear wheel side changing unit so as to change the front wheel side relative position and the rear wheel side relative position, in which the control unit controls the front wheel side changing unit and the rear wheel side changing unit in such a manner that a rate of change of the front wheel side relative position and a rate of change of the rear wheel side relative position satisfy a predetermined relationship.

Abstract: A damping control system for a vehicle having a suspension located between a plurality of ground engaging members and a vehicle frame includes at least one adjustable shock absorber having an adjustable damping characteristic. The system also includes a controller coupled to each adjustable shock absorber to adjust the damping characteristic of each adjustable shock absorber, and a user interface coupled to the controller and accessible to a driver of the vehicle. The user interface includes at least one user input to permit manual adjustment of the damping characteristic of the at least one adjustable shock absorber during operation of the vehicle. Vehicle sensors may also be coupled to the controller to adjust the damping characteristic of the at least one adjustable shock absorber based on sensor output signals.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for tracking and controlling shopping carts and other types of human propelled vehicles. The system includes a wheel assembly that attaches to a cart. The wheel assembly includes a brake unit for inhibiting cart motion, and includes wireless communication circuitry. The wheel assembly is capable of activating the brake unit in response to one or more conditions, such as the receipt of an RF signal or command. In some embodiments, the system also includes a display unit that displays information to a user of the cart, including information regarding the cart's proximity to a lock zone in which the brake unit will become activated.

Abstract: A changing pad stroller assembly provides a selectively deployable diaper changing support on a stroller. The assembly includes a frame and a handle coupled to the frame. A plurality of wheels is coupled to the frame. A seat coupled to the frame and an upper tray is also coupled to the frame. The upper tray extends around a forward end of the seat. A main panel has a first edge pivotally coupled to a first side of the upper tray. The main panel is positionable to extend across the seat such that a second edge of the main panel engages second side of the upper tray.

Abstract: A self-propelled vehicle (10) suitable for use as a golfing accessory, the vehicle comprising: a plurality of wheels (14, 21), a base part (12) and a control arm (18), wherein the control arm and base part are moveable relative to one another so that said vehicle can be arranged in one of a plurality of different operating configurations.

Abstract: The present invention the present invention relates to methods and systems for performing security screening using trays and a cart to facilitate the management and flow of those trays.

Abstract: A mobile support system for supporting a concrete pouring hose supports ten to sixteen feet of hose while providing sufficient ground clearance to avoid common obstacles. The mobile support system features large castors and conveniently placed hand holds to permit the mobile support system to be moved safely and easily. The system provides for socketed leg attachment, thereby allowing for ease of disassembly and storage.

Abstract: A method of forming a tie rod tube assembly by magnetic pulse welding is provided. The method can be used to form tie rod assemblies with a tie rod tube centerpiece that is parabolic in shape. In addition, the method can be used to form a tie rod assembly where the end fittings and centerpiece are made from different materials. Also described is a tie rod assembly manufactured using the method or methods of the invention.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rear suspension system of a coupled torsion beam which comprises a torsion beam and trailing arms connected to ends of the torsion beam by welding, wherein a gap with a predetermined length is formed between the torsion beam and the trailing arm.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention may include an axle support structure. The axle support structure has first and second axle supports, an axle and a bolt mechanism. The axle supports are provided on a vehicle body member of an industrial vehicle and have respectively a support hole. The axle is arranged between the first and second axle supports, and has a pair of center pins. Each of the center pins is rotatably supported by the support hole. The bolt mechanism configured to detachably attach each of the axle supports to the vehicle body member.

Abstract: A land vehicle, according to various aspects of the present invention allows the driver to lean with a frame that supports the driver and that pivots on a base. Motion of the frame is coupled to the wheels to adjust a camber of the wheels. The wheels are coupled to the base that provides a reference for independent wheel suspension mechanisms. As a result, banking of the vehicle does not affect the suspension of the wheels. Hydraulic assistance to counteract the forces of the suspension systems is unnecessary.

Abstract: A stabilizer arrangement for a chassis of a motor vehicle, having at least one actuator which compensates for vehicle movements entirely or partially in the region of a wheel suspension which is connected to the stabilizer arrangement, wherein the actuator can be actuated via flexible lines. The actuator is connected to a central control unit via flexible lines to be routed from the central control unit, via openings which are arranged in a stabilizer bearing, to the actuator which interacts with a stabilizer, wherein the flexible lines are arranged around the stabilizer in a helical manner, and operation of the actuator causes a change in the diameter of the helix or the helix shape of the flexible lines which are laid in a helical manner.

Abstract: A suspension assembly for a vehicle including an elongated central torsion axle shaft of a rubber torsion axle assembly, a torsion axle shaft pivot point about which the torsion axle shaft pivots, a spring and an elongated spindle swing arm. The spring has a first end and a second end and the first end of the spring is connected to a fixed point relative to a vehicle frame. The spindle swing arm has a second end with the first end connected to the torsion axle shaft with the second end of the spindle swing arm connected to the second end of the spring. The spring can set the torsion axle shaft to a predetermined position, such as at or near a no-load position, when only static forces are present. This provides for a torsion axle with a greater range of movement and significantly improves its lifespan.

Abstract: A vehicle body front part structure includes: a lower arm that supports a front wheel; a first transverse member that is connected to a supporting part on a rear side of the lower arm in a vehicle body; a second transverse member that connects between parts on a front end side of a rocker, the rocker is disposed in a rear of the wheel; and a connecting structure that integrally connects between the first transverse member and the second transverse member.

Abstract: An intelligent side step apparatus for a vehicle may include a linear motor having a stator fixed to a vehicle body, with both ends thereof being positioned in a traverse direction of the vehicle, and a mover engaged to the stator and slidable along the stator when a current may be supplied to the stator, a side step that may be rotatably combined with the mover, and a step actuator that may be connected to the mover and engaged to an end of the side step to selectively rotate the side step.

Abstract: An independent shaft driven front wheel drive transmission (20) powers the front wheel of a velocipede by rotating a pair of coextensive handles (23 L R). Standard foot pedals power a rear shaft drive assembly (17) or a standard chain drive (FIG. 9). Forward rotation of the handles sets in motion the shaft driver assembly (10). The drive shaft (35) rotates and transfers energy to the multi-geared front hub assembly (14) that drives the front wheel forward. Triple tree brackets (73), position and support the front forks and steer tube. The steer tube (24) in combination with the triple tree brackets attaches the front wheel shaft drive system to the head tube of the velocipede. The modified front fork tube (53 R) houses the drive shaft (35) and bearings, (56 a b). The fork tube also has an attached modified drop out (77) that has clearance for rotatable bottom gear (51).

Abstract: A steerer tube suitable for a bicycle fork assembly. The steerer tube comprises an inner tube formed of a metal, an outer layer, the outer layer being wrapped around a section of the metal inner tube; and the outer layer being formed of a material, wherein the material is lighter than the metal for the inner tube.

Abstract: A hitch apparatus includes a frame configured to be secured to a vehicle and that is pivotable about a first axis, a guide that is movably secured to the frame and pivotable about a second axis substantially transverse to the first axis, and a tow bar movably secured to the guide and movable relative to the guide between retracted and extended positions. The hitch apparatus includes a user controlled positioning system with a user input device that is configured to allow a user to extend and retract the tow bar and to articulate the tow bar up-down and left-right so as to position the tow bar distal end at a desired position within a three-dimensional coordinate system.

Abstract: A clevis pin combination comprises a clevis made of aluminum alloy; and a pin made of steel. This combination of parts and materials results in lighter weight and improved performance of maximum load carrying capacity over similar combinations of all aluminum or all steel. The clevis further comprises a first clevis leg having a first clevis aperture in a first clevis end and a second clevis leg having a second clevis aperture in a second clevis end. The second clevis end is spaced apart from the first clevis end forming an open end. A curved portion connecting the first clevis leg and the second clevis leg forms a closed end. The first clevis aperture and the second clevis aperture are axially aligned and the steel pin is sized to fit through the first clevis aperture and second clevis aperture allowing pivoting movement between the clevis and the pin. The clevis may be substantially U-shaped.

Abstract: A foldable frame includes first and second upper bars, first and second lower bars, and first and second pin joint pieces. The first and second pin joint pieces are respectively provided with first and second pin joint holes. The first and second lower bars are respectively fixed with the first and second pin joint pieces. The first pin joint piece is pin-jointed with the second pin joint piece through the first pin joint hole, and end surfaces of the first and second pin joint pieces respectively abut against end portions of the second and first lower bars. Two ends of the first upper bar are respectively pin-jointed with an upper end of a front wheel support and at the second pin joint hole of the second pin joint piece. Two ends of the second upper bar are respectively pin-jointed with a rear wheel support and at the second pin joint hole of the first pin joint piece.

Abstract: A rolling walker comprises a frame, a seat supported by that frame, and a backrest supported by the frame. By one approach the backrest is configured to selectively move between a first position that provides back support for a person sitting in the seat facing in a forward direction and a second position that provides back support for a person sitting in the seat facing in a rearward direction. If desired, this backrest can be comprised of a material (such as a memory foam material) that biases the backrest towards that first position when the backrest is in the first position and that biases the backrest towards the second position when the backrest is in the second position.

Abstract: A foldable golf bag cart includes a connecting seat that has two tubular walls, each of which is formed with an interior pivot hole and a swing hole, and a positioning member that is movably mounted on a rear wheel leg. The swing hole has a swing section, an abutment section, and an insert section. When the positioning member is moved in the insert section, the rear wheel leg is pushed into the abutment section so that the rear wheel leg is prevented from moving forwardly and rearwardly. When the positioning member is disengaged from the insert section, the rear wheel leg extends into the swing section and is movable forwardly to a folded position.

Abstract: A vehicle occupant restraint system comprises an inflatable knee airbag (10). The knee airbag (10) includes an airbag sheath (12) and at least one vent hole (18) formed therein. The vent hole (18) is arranged in the upper half of the knee airbag (10) and is provided on a side of the knee airbag (10) facing away from the vehicle occupant which in the operating position of the knee airbag (10) is directly opposed to a fixed component (28) in the vehicle interior.

Abstract: An inflatable cushion for a side of a vehicle is provided, the inflatable cushion having a first portion of material; a second portion of material, the first portion of material being secured to the second portion of material to define the inflatable cushion; wherein at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the inflatable cushion is defined by a seam wherein an inner surface of the first portion is secured to an inner surface of the second portion only by a plurality of stitches; and wherein a strip of a third portion of material is applied to the seam of an outer surface of either the first portion or the second portion when the plurality of stitches are applied.

Abstract: An improved airbag assembly (20) has an inflator (40), an airbag (20) and a diffuser (70). The diffuser (70) is formed from two folded inner and outer pocket panel layers of fabric and sewn to the airbag (20). The folded inner pocket layer (71) is configured to fit inside the outer pocket layer (73) forming a two-layer structure. The fold (75) in the inner layer (71) is oriented in a first direction relative to the weave of the fabric and the fold of the outer layer (73) is oriented at a second direction relative to the weave of the fabric wherein the second direction is different from the first direction. The first direction and second direction of folds (75, 77) are inclined relative to the other so upon assembly the inner pocket layer (71) fabric weave is directionally inclined on a bias relative to the outer pocket layer (73) fabric weave.

Abstract: The invention refers to a valve (1) with a housing (2) that has a first media opening (7) and encloses a pressure space (6), and a valve element (8) actuated by at least one wire-shaped SMA element (9) arranged in a pressure space that in a first position (I) closes the media opening and in a second position (II) closes the first media opening that opens the valve element (8). The valve housing is formed by a housing shell (3) open on one side and a circuit board (11) closing it with which the SMA element (9) is electrically connected to.

Abstract: A knee collision protection structure for a vehicle includes a glove box provided at a lower portion of an instrument panel and including a storage part and a panel part provided to stand on a cabin side of the storage part and configuring part of the instrument panel, and a shaft member provided on the vehicle front side than the panel part of the glove box and on the upper side than the storage part and extending in a vehicle widthwise direction. The glove box is provided so as to rotate around the shaft member when a knee of an occupant seated on a seat opposed to the glove box collides with a lower portion of the panel part than the shaft member.

Abstract: A roll-bar structural arrangement featuring symmetrical covers that can be mounted both internally and externally of the structure of the accessory, on both sides, without the need for separate parts, said cover (30) being attached to the extension (11) of the roll-bar and ends fitted onto the central bar (10), and comprising single body parts shaped in the form of two symmetrical parts (301) and (302) and welded together via tongue and groove (not shown) placed on the edges, with a hollow inner region and featuring a leading segment (31) with a curvature coinciding with the curvature of the extreme portion of the central bar (10), and a secondary segment (32) projecting from the vicinity of the end of the leading segment (31), said secondary segment (32) accompanying the curvature of the extension (11) of the roll-bar, with ends of the leading segment (31) and of the extension (32) with an opening (33) with a section coinciding with the diameter of the central bar (10) and of the extension (11) of the roll-b

Abstract: The present invention is a rack system or bicycle carrier configured to prevent contact or damage onto vehicle body accessories such as a spoiler or fin. The bicycle carrier pivotally engages or mounts onto the rear end of a vehicle and preferably has a clearance frame, which is an additional frame extension, which provides the clearance needed over the spoiler or fin. The clearance frame is preferably attached to the upper frame or portion of the bicycle carrier and can be adjusted or rotationally positioned. The bicycle carrier is configured for all vehicle types such as sedans, hatchbacks, and sport utility vehicles.

Abstract: A fender flare includes a side portion and an inner portion. The inner portion includes troughs at a front area of the inner portion.

Abstract: The invention relates to a stationery item comprising a cover (2) and removable contents forming a refill. The refill comprises: a block (6) of stacked pages forming two main outer surfaces (6a, 6b) separated by a certain thickness; a binding (7) that binds the pages of the block together at the back (6c) of the block; and a flexible covering strip (8) that covers the binding. The covering strip includes: a back portion which outwardly covers the binding and which is provided with magnetic elements (9a-9b), and two side portions that are attached to both of the main surfaces of the block, respectively. The refill can be removably attached to the back (2c) of the cover which includes built-in magnetic means (3a, 3b) for attracting the magnetic elements (9a-9b) of the refill.

Abstract: A media binder has an inner assembly and a case assembly, The inner assembly includes inside boards pre-attached to a binding mechanism. Adhesive is placed on outward surfaces of the inside boards. The case assembly includes a cover sheet with at least one marginal edge attached to surface boards and at least one loose edge. To customize cover, a printed cover is inserted in-between the cover sheet and the surface board through an opening formed by the loose edge. The case assembly is then laminated. The laminated case assembly is combined with the inner assembly using the adhesive on the inside boards. A one-piece media binder has cover sheets wrapping around surface boards forming pockets. The surface boards are partially attached to paste downs. To customize cover, printed covers are inserted into the pockets, and the paste downs are then attached to the surface boards to seal loose edges.

Abstract: File folders are provided having bent hangers from which a receptacle is suspended so that the top of the receptacle is beneath a rail-engaging portion of the hangers and/or beneath a top of the rail or other supporting structure of office storage equipment. The hangers of the file folder may also be collapsible for use outside the office storage equipment. The hangers may also have a grip, or handle, for removal of the file folder from the office storage equipment.

Abstract: A sheet document is based on a one-pieced, coextruded composite strip layer having a thickness of 10 to 110 ?m defining over its area at least two different materials that are configured side by side as strips. At least one of the strips is transparent or translucent and at least one strip opaque. On the composite strip layer there is applied an ink-receiving layer and/or a printed pattern that has a recess that at least partly is configured above a transparent/translucent strip and together with the non-covered region of the transparent/translucent strip forms a window.

Abstract: Quick connector coupling having a connector body to receive a male member with a radial upset comprised of two separate, interconnected components, a head element and a sealing element which define a through-hole from a male member entry port at the end of the head element axially to an exit port at the end of the sealing element. A retainer for releasably securing the male member to the connector body is ring-shaped, and encircles the connector body head element. It includes at least one retainer element, which reaches through a window in the head element and interacts with the radial upset of the male member to secure the male member in the connector body.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and/or detecting the flow of one or more fluids in a fluid system including leak detection system integral to the fluid system (e.g., at any point along a conduit, at a connection between conduits such as at a fitting assembly, etc.) configured to detect incipient, early stage levels of the leak. Based on one or more factors related to the fluid and/or the leak, the methods, devices, and systems disclosed herein can provide an indication of a suitable action or process in response to the fluid or the leak including performing preventative maintenance or providing an indication of the need of maintenance in response to the leak.

Abstract: A broach style anti-rotation device for connected tubular members is described. In embodiments, the broach tool is inserted into a slot in an outer diameter surface of the pin, and teeth of the broach, which have a successively greater height when moving from the front to the tail of the broach, cut a slot in a surface of the box. Sidewalls of the broach and its teeth engage shoulders of each slot to prevent the rotation of the tubular members relative to each other.

Abstract: A coupling includes at least one coupling segment, each segment including an outer surface, an inner surface, at least two ends, fastener pads protruding proximate to each end, and a parting line extending around each segment, the parting line forming an axially outermost edge along each axial side of each coupling segment, the parting line offset from a top surface of each fastener pad.

Abstract: An apparatus for sealing an open end of a pipe includes a clamp for frictionally being secured to the exterior of the pipe, a sealing plate for covering the open end of the pipe and being connectable to the clamp, and an urging mechanism for urging the sealing plate towards the clamp and for forming a seal between the sealing plate and the open end of the pipe. In one aspect, the clamp comprises an annular body formed by at least two sections that are radially tightened over the pipe exterior. In another aspect, the clamp comprises cooperating annular bodies, one capable of radially narrowing the other for frictionally engaging the pipe outer surface. In another aspect the method provides a method of sealing an end of a pipe. According to the invention, once the open end is sealed, the interior of the pipe may be pressurized, for example for testing the integrity thereof.

Abstract: A screw connection device for connecting two pipes with flared ends, comprises a screw, a nut and a spacer. The nut has a front end aperture from which an accommodating space extends to a rear end aperture in a rear end wall. A surface of the nut in the accommodating space has a threaded section which extends toward the rear end wall which has a flange face in the accommodating space. In a pre-installed state, the spacer and a first pipe end with a first flare are accommodated in the nut, such that the spacer is held undetachable between the first flare and the internal thread. A second pipe end with a second flare can be held in the accommodating space by the screw, threaded into the nut such that the second flare is pressed against a sealing surface of the spacer and the spacer is pressed with a further sealing surface against the first flare.

Abstract: A connection flange for connecting an industrial machine is intended to bear against a collar provided on the body of the machine and to collaborate in clamping with a corresponding connection flange. The connection flange includes an annular one-piece flange body and a split locking piece which fits around a cylindrical part of the body of the machine. The locking piece includes a first face intended to bear against a bearing surface provided on the collar and a second face constituting a thrust surface against which the flange body presses at the time of clamping.

Abstract: The invention comprises a wind turbine optical wind sensor 10 mounted on the rotor 4 of a wind turbine, either on the blades 5 or on the hub 5. The sensor comprises a plurality of light sources, each generating respective sensor beams made up of at least two individual parallel component sensor beams. Transit times for particulate matter carried in the wind breaking the at least two component sensor beams are used to provide one or more of an indication of wind speed and/or a component of vertical wind speed. The data received from the sensor can be used in control processes for the operation of the wind turbine, particularly for temporarily pitching the rotor blades in adverse wind conditions, such as when vertical wind gusts are detected.

Abstract: An electric vehicle comprises an air tank (11, 21, 31) and an air turbine (12, 22, 32) connected to the air tank and an electrical power generator (13, 23, 33) respectively. The air tank is provided with an air charging interface and a switching valve, external compressed air is stored into the air tank through the air charging interface, and the stored compressed air is output to the air turbine under the control of the switching valve. The air turbine converts air energy of the input compressed air into kinetic energy for driving the electrical power generator to generator power. The electrical power generator is connected to the driving motor (14, 24, 34) and is used for supplying power to the driving motor when generating power. The electric vehicle has increased travel distance per charge and elongated service life of the storage battery, and is environmental friendly and energy saving.

Abstract: A solar energy driven power generation system includes a solar energy receiver configured to collect solar energy. A vapor generator is operably connected to the solar energy receiver. A vapor turbine is operably connected to the vapor generator and is configured to be driven by a flow of vapor from the vapor generator. An electrical power generator is operably connected to the vapor turbine and driven thereby. A thermal conditioning system is operably connected to the vapor turbine and is driven by a flow of output vapor or hot liquid from the vapor turbine. A method of power generation includes collecting solar thermal energy and generating vapor utilizing the solar thermal energy. A vapor turbine is driven by the vapor and electrical power is produced via the rotation of the vapor turbine. Output vapor from the vapor turbine is utilized to drive a thermal conditioning system.