Abstract: A customizable insole is provided. A base layer having a substantially flat surface shaped to a sole of a foot extends from a heel of the foot to a ball of the foot. One or more support pads each having a different contoured shape of varying height is removably affixed on a top surface of the base layer. An upper layer having a substantially flat surface shaped to the sole of the foot is affixed on top of the support pads and base layer.

Abstract: An orthotic is disclosed. The orthotic may include a cushioning layer configured to extend from at least the metatarsal region to the proximal heel region, the cushioning layer having a heel region with a protruding heel piece integrally molded as part of the cushioning layer. The orthotic may also include an outer shell layer fixedly coupled to the cushioning layer, the outer shell layer extending longitudinally from at least the medial cuneiform-first metatarsal joint region to the calcaneus bone region of the user, the outer shell layer configured to receive the protruding heel piece.

Abstract: A footwear insole system for use with an article of footwear including a base insole component and an upper insole component. The base insole includes a chassis and first and a second shock absorbing inserts. The upper insole includes a spacer panel, first and a second gel insert members, and a fabric sheet layer. The insole system may be permanently secured to an article of footwear or the insole system may be replaceable or interchangeable for installation and removal to and from an article of footwear by a user.

Abstract: A footwear insole system for use with an article of footwear including a base insole component and an upper insole component. The base insole includes a chassis and first and a second shock absorbing inserts. The upper insole includes a spacer panel, first and a second gel insert members, and a fabric sheet layer. The insole system may be permanently secured to an article of footwear or the insole system may be replaceable or interchangeable for installation and removal to and from an article of footwear by a user.

Abstract: An article of footwear has an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper includes a knitted component and a polymer layer. The knitted component is formed of unitary knit construction and extends along a lateral side of the upper, along a medial side of the upper, over a forefoot region of the upper, and around a heel region of the upper. The polymer layer is bonded to the knitted component and may form a majority of an exterior surface of the upper. The polymer layer may be formed from a thermoplastic polymer material.

Abstract: A shoelace protector can include a fastening member, enclosure and upper section. The fastening member can be inserted into to an eyelet of a shoe to properly support the shoelace protector. The shoelace can be strung into the fastening member and through the enclosure. The enclosure can surround the shoe lace on an exterior portion of the shoe. The shoelace can then be placed through the upper section. The upper section can provide a narrow slit such that the shoelace can be fit therethrough. Two or more shoelace protectors can be fitted into the eyelets of the shoe. The protectors can be positioned on the lower eyelets such that the bend created by the eyelet on the shoelace can be protected during use.

Abstract: Shoe soles with and without removable/replaceable gripping pods for athletic or sport shoes are provided with enhanced traction. The sole portions or gripping pods may be provided with a supply of a substance that exhibits a tackiness for enhancing friction between the shoe sole and the any hard floor. The tackiness-enhancing substance may be time-released or discharged from within the shoe sole onto the lower surface(s) of the sole that make(s) contact with the smooth hard playing surface or may be in response to compression or shear forces acting on the sole during play to prolong the tacky properties and reduce slippage. A visual indicator may be provided for notifying the player that it is time to replace the worn or used pod and insert a fresh pod or insert into the pod(s) to maintain high levels of gripping.

Abstract: An adjustable snow shovel system for facilitating effective removal of accumulated snow has a generally tubular, three-way adjustable shovel frame. The system has a generally tubular, adjustable handle bar horizontally located on the shovel frame. The handle bar is adjustable for facilitating effective removal of accumulated snow. The system has a pivotally adjustable shovel assembly having a first shovel member and a second shovel member. The shovel assembly is generally horizontally located on the shovel frame. The shovel assembly can be affixed into a position having the first shovel member and the second shovel member in-line with one another maximizing a shovel assembly width for facilitating effective removal of accumulated snow. The shovel assembly can be affixed into a position having the first shovel member and the second shovel member located at an angle with respect to one another for facilitating effective removal of accumulated snow.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an underwater excavation apparatus and a method of excavation with the same. The apparatus of the invention performs the excavation by both mass flow and jet flow. Mass flow excavation takes place at a pressure that is lower than the jet flow excavation performed by the apparatus, and the volume flow rate of the mass flow excavation is greater than the volume flow rate of the jet flow excavation performed by the apparatus. The outlet for jet flow excavation is provided within the outlet for mass flow excavation of the apparatus.

Abstract: An excavation system employing a high-pressure pulsed air jet in combination with a low-pressure high velocity blower for excavating improvised explosive devices or other buried objects. The excavation system may also be employed to operate a pneumatic tool such as a cut-off tool or a chisel. The high velocity blower may incorporate a bifurcated fan duct having two air outlets. The system may include a pressure control module for regulating the from a high-pressure air source to an evacuation valve. The evacuation valve employs first and second valves where the second valve controls the operation of the first valve.

Abstract: A coupling system for coupling a wear element to an adapter for excavators and similar machinery and the components thereof. The coupling system is formed by a wear element, preferably a tooth though possibly a bucket protection element, a tooth bar or adaptor element and a securing system for securing the two elements, formed mainly by a pin. In addition, the securing system can include a retaining element with resilient properties, associated with the pin.

Abstract: A loader coupler includes a body with spaced-apart inner rib mounts for mating respectively with ribs of a first type of attachment. The body also includes inner locking regions that are aligned with the inner rib mounts. Spaced-apart outer rib mounts are also provided on the body and are adapted to mate respectively with a second type of attachment. Outer locking regions are aligned with the outer rib mounts. A lock system is connected to the body and includes: (i) a first actuator operatively connected to left and right first lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right first lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions; and, (ii) a second actuator operatively connected to left and right second lock plungers and adapted to move the left and right second lock plungers between locked and unlocked positions.

Abstract: A steam ironing device (1), comprising: an iron, including a soleplate (18) provided with at least one steam outlet opening (20); soleplate heating means (22) configured to heat the soleplate (18); a steam generator (50) including a heatable steam generation chamber (51) that is fluidly connectable to the at least one steam outlet opening (20) in the soleplate; and control means (24, 56), operably connected to the soleplate heating means (22) and the steam generator (50), and configured to control a soleplate temperature and a steam rate of the steam ironing device, wherein the control means (24, 56) are configured to heat the soleplate to a non user-adjustable temperature in the range of 105-145° C., and to provide for a time-averaged steam rate of at least 50 grams/minute.

Abstract: A luggage tag system includes a main portion comprising an elongated portion for forming a loop to attach the luggage tag system to a piece of luggage; a removable portion detachable from the main portion; a unique serial number provided on both the main portion and the removable portion; an area of the removable portion comprising a printed coupon or prize indicator; and an adhesive panel covering the area to prevent the area from being seen until the adhesive panel is removed. Any portion of the adhesive panel that is separated from the removable portion of the tag system loses its ability to adhere to the removable portion so that premature removal of the adhesive panel, in whole or in part, is detectable.

Abstract: Disclosed is a plastic film with concealed tearable strip, which includes a film body; at least one first tearable strip having two sides respectively forming first and second joint sections; and at least one second tearable strip having two sides respectively forming a third joint section and an internal tear line. The first and second tearable strips each have one side connected to the film body. The first joint section has two sides each forming a tear line. The third joint section has one side forming at least one tear line. The third joint section and the internal tear line have inside faces respectively coupled to the first and second joint sections, whereby the first and second tearable strips are respectively located at outside and inside of the film body and the second tearable strip is concealed at the inside of the film body.

Abstract: A picture has a paint receiving substrate covered by an array of bowl-shape indentations, each of which is marked around an interior periphery with different colors such that different amounts of said different colors are exposed to spectator view at respectively different angles of view together forming composite visual subject matter which varies in color when viewed from different angles. Some indentations have vertically extending surface portions adjacent their mouths and spaced apart from their mouths which can be round or hexagonal in shape.

Abstract: A mouth guard system for displaying a message using interchangeable tiles resembling teeth features an upper mouth guard. A plurality of tile channels, tile openings, and tile insertion apertures is located in the upper mouth guard. The system features a lower mouth guard. A plurality of tile channels, tile openings, and tile insertion apertures is located in the upper mouth guard. Each tile opening features a shape resembling a tooth. The system features a plurality of tiles designed to snuggly slide into the tile channel via the tile insertion aperture. The tile is visible via the tile opening. A tile cutout of a symbol, a character, or a picture is located throughout a cross-section of the tile from a tile front surface to a tile rear surface. A back wall of the tile channel is visible through the tile cutout. Each tile features rounded edges and rounded corners.

Abstract: An interchangeable graphic display system of method of using same, in conjunction with an in-line skate frame, wherein the system includes a graphic display apparatus having a first and second layer, wherein each layer is attachable by a separate mounting means, and wherein the system enables an individual to display and replace different pictorial and graphic representations during operation of in-line skates.

Abstract: A shaking inflatable figure has a body, an inflating unit and a vibrating unit. The body has an inflatable air chamber. The inflating unit and the vibrating unit are mounted inside the body. The inflating unit pumps air into the air chamber. The vibrating unit has a driving motor. A weight is connected to a spindle of the driving motor at an eccentric direction to the spindle of the driving motor. The vibrating unit is mounted on a partition diaphragm inside the body. Vibrations arising from the shift of center of gravity of the eccentric weight are transmitted to the body through the partition diaphragm so that the body is also vibrated to increase animated visual effect and entertaining pleasure to viewers.

Abstract: A method for protecting an advertising sign from weathering conditions is disclosed. The method includes the operation of providing a frame configured to hold a plurality of sign segments, the sign segments having a front side and a back side each configured to carry graphical images. The front and back sides of each sign segment can be covered with a substantially transparent covering configured to enable each sign segment to be essentially undamaged by weathering effects for a period of at least seven years. The plurality of sign segments can be configured to be stacked on top of one another within the frame. The frame can be configured to enable removal and replacement of one or more of the plurality of sign segments.

Abstract: A picture frame tray system for supporting at least one object adjacent a wall is provided. The picture tray system comprises a picture frame having a front side, a rear side substantially opposite the front side, a top edge, a bottom edge substantially opposite the top edge, and a pair of side edges between the top edge and the bottom edge. At least one image positioned on the front side of the picture frame. At least one hinge mechanism is secured between the bottom edge of the picture frame and the wall. The at least one hinge mechanism allows the picture frame to move between a displaying position with the top edge of the picture frame adjacent the wall and the image facing away from the wall and a tray position with the top edge of the picture frame distant from the wall.

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

Abstract: A reciprocating sensory sighting system with a movable cheek weld member is translationally received by a firearm frame which defines a firing chamber and a passageway from an ammunition supply to the chamber. The cheek weld member includes a body, and a frame engagement portion extending therefrom. The frame engagement portion translationally couples to the frame, reciprocating between charging and firing positions to move an ammunition round from the supply, through the passageway, and to the firing chamber. The body has an exterior surface defining a cheek seat for shooter engagement when in the firing position, and an optional rear sight. A reciprocating sensory system, with or without the reciprocating sighting system, is provided with a sensory assisting element supported by the body. A firearm having such a reciprocating cheek weld member and/or a reciprocating sensory system, are also provided, along with a retrofit charging handle system for a firearm.

Abstract: A firearm barrel cleaning brush includes a body, a first swab portion affixed to the body, a bristle brush portion affixed to the body, and a second swab portion affixed to the body. The bristle brush portion is proximate to the first swab portion, and is positioned closer to an end of the body than the first swab portion. The second swab portion is proximate to the bristle brush portion, and is positioned closer to the end of the body than the bristle brush portion. In one embodiment, the cleaning brush is secured to a flexible cleaning rod having a pull-through handle having a base, a swivel, and a handle portion attached to the base by the swivel. The handle portion has a closed position adapted for passage through the firearm barrel, and an open position adapted for pulling the cleaning rod and barrel cleaning brush through the firearm barrel.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a firearm having a receiver defining a bore with the receiver extending along a longitudinal axis. The receiver defines an ejection port transverse to the longitudinal axis with the bore defining an inner surface. The firearm further includes a bolt carrier disposed in the bore and moveable relative to the receiver along the longitudinal axis between a firing position and a rearward position. The firearm also includes a shield longitudinally affixed to the bolt carrier and movable with the bolt carrier as a unit between the firing and rearward positions along the longitudinal axis with the shield blocking the ejection port when in the firing position and the shield sliding along the inner surface away from the ejection port when moving to the rearward position in conjunction with the bolt carrier.

Abstract: A bushing wrench for a pistol, the bushing wrench having a reciprocating ejection plunger, which facilitates the installation and removal of a recoil spring plunger in a controlled and properly timed manner by way of a receiving and ejection position.

Abstract: An improved clamping device and method for a weapon accessory rail of a type having an elongate mounting structure of generally T-shaped cross-sectional shape, such as a Picatinny mounting rail, is provided.

Abstract: In one example, an accessory mount for a gun, such as a machine gun, can include a base configured for attachment of the accessory mount to the gun, a holding mechanism for fixing the position of the base in relation to the gun, and an elongated accessory mounting arm coupled to the base and extending forwardly therefrom, the arm comprising a beam having a vertical web with at least one flange disposed at an upper and/or a lower end thereof.

Abstract: An improved portable, fishing rod holder, for holding the handle of a fishing rod while it is in use and that is capable of being detachably secured to an assortment of environmental support structures, includes: (a) a container whose first end has an opening that is adapted to removably receive a fishing rod handle and whose second end has a threaded hole, (b) a threaded rod having proximal and distal ends, and a thread configuration adapted to allow this rod's proximal end to be detachably threaded into the threaded hole of the container's second end, and (c) a plurality of two-part (i.e., active and passive) clamps, each of which is capable of detachably securing this container to one of an assortment of possibly available environmental support structures.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a fishing rod holder having a generally annular mounting bezel which generally surrounds the mouth of a tube for receiving the butt of a fishing rod. The underside of the mounting bezel includes at least one blind hole or projecting mounting stud for receiving a fastener for mounting the rod holder without penetrating the exposed surface of the mounting bezel, providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance. A rod engaging member or pin engages grooves in the butt of a rod, allowing it to swivel. The amount of resistance of the rod engaging member or pin to swivel motion can be adjusted.

Abstract: An insect trap includes an internal source of multi-directional illumination mounted within the housing. The outer surface of the housing has an adhesive layer. The internal source of illumination attracts insects which fly onto the adhesive layer and become ensnared on the surface of the housing.

Abstract: A fossorial animal control product and related methods are disclosed herein. The fossorial animal control product is a non-toxic and biodegradable super absorbent polymer combined with a compost agent. The fossorial animal control product is disposed in a fossorial animal burrow. When hydrated and allowed a sufficient amount time to expand, the fossorial animal control product obstructs the entrance to the burrow, a portion of the burrow or substantially fully obstructs burrow. The fossorial animal control product releases water and nutrients over time within the burrow. This assists flora proximate to the burrow that were damaged by fossorial animal activity to recover. Use of the fossorial animal control product also fills ground surface voids created by fossorial animals thus reducing trip hazards commonly encountered in playgrounds or sporting facilities.

Abstract: A self-contained, cart-mounted extermination device having an internal combustion engine which produces an exhaust gas containing an asphyxiant is disclosed. The disclosed device provides an effective and humane means to eradicate subterranean pests which is portable, rugged, compact and simple to use and maneuver.

Abstract: The present invention provides a bait station and method for securing it using a receptacle for holding a weight to weight a bait enclosure and by stakes formed as a unitary part of the enclosure for securing the enclosure.

Abstract: Biomass production apparatus is disclosed and comprises a stack of trays, each tray, in use, being in receipt of a respective layer of liquid, the layers being spaced apart from one another such that each layer has associated therewith a respective headspace. Light sources are provided for each layer and are disposed in the headspace associated with said each layer, to illuminate, at least in part, said each layer.

Abstract: A planting container body (1) has a bottom wall (3) and side walls (4) forming a planting space (2) and also has a water-holding section for holding planting water supplied to the planting space (2). The water-holding section has a water discharge opening (12) for overflow. In a horizontal position (A) in which the planting space (2) opens upward, the bottom wall (3) and the side walls (4) form a horizontal water-holding section for holding planting water. In a vertical position in which the planting space (2) opens sideways, a vertical water-holding section for holding planting water is formed by the bottom wall (3), side walls (4), and a dam section (8) formed facing the bottom wall (3) on the side wall (4) that is the bottom surface. A water discharge start section of the water discharge opening (12) is located at a position a predetermined distance away from the bottom wall (3) and a predetermined distance away from a side wall (4).

Abstract: A mine door system comprising at least one mine door leaf hinged at one side thereof to a door frame defining an entry. The system includes an articulated door-moving mechanism that articulates between a first configuration in which the mechanism applies a relatively small door-moving force to the door leaf to move the door leaf at a first speed and a second configuration in which the mechanism applies a larger door-moving force to the door leaf to move the door leaf at a second speed less than the first speed. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A door opening-and-closing apparatus for a vehicle includes a rotatably driven drum, a first cable and a second cable, which cables are wound around the drum, a rotating shaft, a first pulley supported by the rotating shaft, a second pulley supported by the rotating shaft, an attachment member supporting the rotating shaft, a rigid protruding portion integral with one of the first and second pulleys, and an annular recessed portion integrally formed in the other one of the first and second pulleys. When the first and second pulleys are correctly assembled on the rotating shaft, a relative rotation between the first and second pulleys is allowed, and when the first and second pulleys are not correctly assembly on the rotating shaft, the predetermined length of the rotating shaft is not sufficient to support both the first and second pulleys.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to motorized closure assembly, comprising: an opening frame configured to fit around the opening; a substantially rectangular closure slab having a closure slab frame configured to surround the substantially rectangular closure slab and sealingly fit within the opening frame; and a motorized driver, wherein the motorized driver is entirely embedded within the closure slab frame or within a combination of the closure slab frame and the opening frame, the motorized driver configured to slidably move the slab between an open position and a closed position.

Abstract: An integrated retainer in which an inner part of a retainer upper part extending above a door belt line and an inner part of a retainer lower part extending below the door belt are continuous without a joint line is employed for an automobile door. The retainer lower part has an approximate U shape including an inner part and an outer part as glass-run holding parts. The retainer upper part includes only an inner part as a glass-run holding part.

Abstract: A system and methods for controlling operation of hydraulic cylinders includes monitoring position of the cylinders relative to one another, and correction of misalignment of the cylinders should they become misaligned. Further, monitoring can be of a swing-type door operated using the cylinders, which can operate the door at different speeds. Further, as the door creeps open from a closed position or closed from an open position, correction is also made.

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

Abstract: An example of the disclosed seating system includes a plurality of seating risers configured to telescope relative to one another. At least one of the seating risers is a powered seating riser having a drive system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rainwater gutter for mounting on a building to collect rainwater from the roof. It is shaped similar to a letter S. The rainwater flows from the roof covering onto the top section of the S shaped curved element, where, due to the contour of the gutter and surface tension will flow down from the upper curved section into the cylindrical section via the opening formed by the bottom section of the S returning to terminate as an open end close to the top section. The small opening also emits daylight thus reducing the possibility of vegetation growing in the gutter. This will reduce expensive and dangerous maintenance of eave gutters. Because the water gathered from the eave of the roof is cleaner it would reduce filtration costs for rainwater harvesting. The gutter can be formed in plastic, aluminum, copper or zinc.

Abstract: Wall mounting assemblies and methods are disclosed. The assembly includes a bracket that has two frame members coupled at a hinge. Each frame member has a hook for engaging a recess or slot on a panel. The assembly further includes a panel that has edges that are configured to engage the edges of adjacent panels, without the need for tilting the panel to engage. Each panel has two slots for receiving the bracket. Bending the two frame members on the bracket causes the bracket's hooks to lock into the slots on the panel.

Abstract: An assembly for sealing an exposed surface including a plurality of thermoformed and individually sealing membrane sections, each provided in sheet form and configured for applying over an exterior of the surface. The membranes are directly heat welded to one another along overlapping edges in order to create a sectionalized and continuous vapor barrier across the surface. A sensor is integrated into any one or more selected membrane sections. The sensor incorporates a power supply, a processor and a transmitter which is communicable with a remote monitoring device in order to notify of a problem within any specified membrane section.

Abstract: A covering system includes a flexible, web-like membrane having first and second portions. A first cross support is connected to the first portion of the membrane, and a second cross support is connected to the second portion of the membrane. A drive mechanism is provided for moving the second cross support relative to the first cross support so that the membrane is movable between a first, retracted position and a second, deployed position. The drive mechanism includes a force multiplication mechanism for facilitating a longitudinal tensile stress application to the membrane when it is in the second, deployed position. A transverse tensioning mechanism that includes a catenary linkage is also provided for tensioning the membrane in a direction that is transverse to the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A self-contained portable habitat apparatus may be used in a radiological environment. The habitat apparatus includes a outer container adapted for being portable and freestanding, and the outer container is outfitted to include a chamber structure within the outer container. The chamber structure at least partially defines in interior space for being occupied by one or more humans. The chamber structure may be adapted for attenuating gamma radiation. Regarding the chamber structure being adapted for attenuating gamma radiation, the chamber structure may comprise one or more liners and/or panels, such as structural insulated panels. The one or more liners and/or panels may comprise a flexible layer, and the flexible layer may comprise polymeric material and metal, wherein the metal is for attenuating radiation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system or kit of connectors and panels which can be readily assembled to form a structure with the use of a minimal number of tools. Panels are precut so that measurements and cutting of the panel component materials is eliminated. Connectors are provided for attachment to the panels which allow the panels to be assembled to the floor and roof panels without the need for fasteners. The roof and floor structures are formed from interlocking plastic panels. The roof and floor panels include a structure that cooperates with the connectors secured to the wall panels to allow for the construction of a plurality of structures using like constructed connectors. Wall panels may be chosen from a variety of materials which allow a consumer to construct a building such as a storage shed that best suits his/her needs.

Abstract: A building utilizing Panel construction that has a floor assembly, wall assemblies and a roof assembly. The assemblies are manufactured off site and delivered ready to install. After a foundation is prepared, the Floor Joist Assembly (FJA) system is installed. The walls have three main components—a Stationary Structural Wall (SSW) that is delivered assembled; a Removable Facade Wall (RFW) that is delivered assembled; and a Crawlspace Insulation Assembly (CIA) that is partially assembled on site. The Roof Assembly Material (RAM) has trusses, an exterior weatherproof cover; and a finished ceiling assembly. The system is designed to provide an easy assembly of a complete structure that meets all hurricane and other building code measures in an economical package. The Electrical, Plumbing and Mechanical systems are installed with/as the floor and walls are installed. The lines are then connected after the structure is in place.