Abstract: A lacing system for an article of footwear may include a lateral series of lace-receiving elements and a medial series of lace-receiving elements. A first lace extends consecutively through a first lateral lace-receiving element, a second lateral lace-receiving element, a fourth medial lace-receiving element, a fifth lateral lace-receiving element, a third medial lace-receiving element, and again through the first lateral lace-receiving element. A second lace extends consecutively through a first medial lace-receiving element, a second medial lace-receiving element, a fourth lateral lace-receiving element, a fifth medial lace-receiving element, a third lateral lace-receiving element, and again through the first medial lace-receiving element.

Abstract: An article of footwear has an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The upper includes a knitted component and, in some configurations, a skin layer secured to the knitted component. The knitted component may have a plurality of protruding areas that extend outward and away from a void within the upper for receiving a foot of a wearer. The protruding areas may include one or both of (a) a first tubular structure and an inlaid strand extending through the first tubular structure and (b) a second tubular structure and yarn sections extending across the second tubular structure.

Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a midsole. A first midsole impact force attenuation structure or system is arranged at least within the toe region of the midsole. A second midsole impact force attenuation structure or system is arranged at least within the heel region of the midsole, such that the second midsole impact force attenuation structure or system includes a molded heel region member extending from a lateral side of the article of footwear to a medial side; the heel region member having a hollow central region defined by a first radius of curvature in a direction toward the toe region and a second radius of curvature in a direction toward the heel region. The first radius of curvature is different from the second radius of curvature. The heel region member may be in an asymmetrical stiffness construction.

Abstract: An orthopedic shoe (01), for preventing excess pressure loads on pressure-sensitive foot soles, in particular those of diabetics, has a rigid sole (02) which substantially precludes bending of the forward joint of the foot during walking. A toes and/or heel area has a convexly rounded sole portion (04, 05) allowing rolling. The shoe has a shaft (03) with a fixation device (06, 07) to fix a foot in the shoe. The fixation device has a heel strap (11) and a dorsal strap (12). The dorsal strap has a load-transmitting attachment, with a left and a right connecting element (18, 19), to the left and right portion (11a, 11b) of the heel strap. The connecting elements each have a distance to the two ends (13, 16) of the heel strap attached laterally to the shoe and a distance to the center (20) of the heel strap spanning across the heel bone.

Abstract: A system and method for customizing footwear with interchangeable straps and soles is provided. In one embodiment, an article of footwear includes an upper assembly with at least one fastener. The fastener of the upper assembly can be inserted into a lower assembly and magnetically attracted to a fastener of the lower assembly so as to removably attach the upper assembly to the lower assembly. The removable attachment of the upper assembly to the lower assembly allows for interchangeability with other lower assemblies and upper assemblies, allowing the article of footwear to be quickly customized to several different styles and/or colors of footwear for different occasions.

Abstract: A sole structure for an article of footwear includes an upper element, a lower element positioned below the upper element and a flexure element. The flexure element may be joined to one of the upper element and the lower element. The flexure element may be configured for slidingly contacting the other of the upper element and the lower element when a vertical compressive load is applied to the upper element. A second flexure element may be provided that extends from the upper element toward the lower element (or vice versa). An article of footwear having the sole structure attached to an upper is also provided.

Abstract: Footwear having an outsole including treads spaced about 3.0 mm to about 6.0 mm from one another so that a rocky terrain feature can fit between adjacent treads thereby providing traction through the outsole on the rocky terrain feature, each tread of a height of about 1.5 mm to about 2.5 mm so the tread engages the rocky terrain feature without substantially bending upon such engagement. The treads can include a tread edge defining a right angle to form a substantially non-radiused corner. The outsole can include preselected regions having different durometers, e.g., a harder durometer to assist the treads in holding firm against terrain features, and a softer durometer to add flexibility to the outsole. A footbed with zone pods and secondary pods can be secured to the upper in a Strobel construction, the zone pods and secondary pods interacting with the outsole to provide enhanced feedback to the wearer.

Abstract: Disclosed embodiment relates to a talking shoe for kids. In a preferred embodiment, a communication apparatus is disposed with a detection device. In this embodiment, the detection device comprise of nano sensors embedded in silicon substrate disposed in micro/nano-fibers.

Abstract: A method for making a cleated plate member of an article of footwear includes forming a blade cleat assembly having an anchor member associated with a blade member, the blade member having a planar body, the body having a base portion, a head portion opposite the base portion, and a through hole formed in the base portion, a first molding material of the anchor member surrounding the base portion of the blade member and extending through the through hole formed in the base portion of the blade member, and associating the blade cleat assembly with an exposed surface of a plate body to form a cleated plate member. The base portion of the blade member further may include a pair of opposing shoulder flange portions. A blade cleat assembly may be disposed in a cleat assembly receptacle of a mold system configured to form a cleated plate member.

Abstract: A toe protector adapted to be removably attached to an external portion of the toe-box of cleated athletic footwear having removable cleats to protect an athlete's foot from crush injuries. The toe protector includes a pair of plantar flanges, each having pair of spaced apart threaded cleat stud receiving holes used to attach the toe protector to the cleated athletic footwear. It is formed plastic, or other materials, having sufficient thickness and hardness to withstand deformation and deflect crush forces applied to the toe-box of the cleated athletic footwear. It is designed to be universally applicable to most all athletic footwear having removable cleats available from known manufacturers and can be easily transferable to other similarly sized cleated footwear.

Abstract: A toe protector adapted to be removably attached to an external portion of the toe-box of cleated athletic footwear having removable cleats to protect an athlete's foot from crush injuries. The toe protector includes plantar flanges, each having at least one threaded cleat stud receiving hole used to attach the toe protector to the cleated athletic footwear in an external relationship. It is formed plastic, polycarbonate, or other materials, having sufficient thickness and hardness to withstand deformation and deflect crush forces applied to the toe-box of the cleated athletic footwear. It is designed to be universally applicable to most all athletic footwear having removable cleats available from known manufacturers and can be easily transferable to other similarly sized cleated footwear.

Abstract: A snow plow apparatus comprises a snow plow main blade, end blade sections telescopingly mounted to ends of the main blade for sliding extension and retraction, and mechanical fasteners fixing a selected telescoped position of the end blade sections on the main blade. The main blade has a vertical cross section with linear portions connected by a formed channel-shaped center portion that gives the blade greater bending strength, and includes flanged upper and lower edges. The end blade sections match the main blade's vertical cross section, and include top and bottom flanges that slidably engage the upper and lower edges. Mechanical fasteners engage aligned holes in the flanges to fix a selected extended position of the blade end sections. End plates attached to the blade end sections retain snow on the face of the main blade during use.

Abstract: A vehicle having a long track or wheel-trail wheel combination on one side and a smaller ground engaging member, such as a short track or wheel on the other. The vehicle has a work attachment on one end of its frame, which is provided clearance on the side of the vehicle with the short track or wheel. A control system is provided to allow an operator to properly control a direction of the vehicle despite the fact that different forces may be required to operate the long track and the short track or wheel.

Abstract: A memorial for outdoor display is disclosed. The memorial includes a post for mounting in the ground and a display case. The display case is further comprised of a frame and a center display. The frame comprises three pieces situated on the bottom, left and right of the display case. Each piece includes a groove along an interior surface. Adapted to fit within the groove are two components of the center display: a transparent face and a print. A backing member is adapted to be disposed on the back of the frame pieces.

Abstract: A physically-discrete sign component comprises an internally-electrically-illuminated alphabetic character having a front-facing profile and at least one connecting bar disposed at least substantially horizontally with respect to the front-facing profile of the alphabetic character and at least partially within the front-facing profile of that alphabetic character. By one approach the physically-discrete sign component includes two of the connecting bars. If desired, these two connecting bars are disposed at least substantially parallel to one another. By one approach, a first one of the connecting bars extends partially, but not wholly, above an upper periphery of the aforementioned front-facing profile while the second connecting bar extends partially, but not wholly, below a lower periphery of the front-facing profile. The connecting bars can include a connecting-bar interface configured to physically and electrically interconnect to an adjacent sign component.

Abstract: A suspension type road traffic warning signs and a sign system are provided, which belong to the machinery manufacturing field. To solve the technical problem that warning signs must be set at 150 meters away when a car in operation breaks down, a solution is put forward that the warning signs (1, 2, 3, 4) and the sign system (5, 6, 7, 8) are assembled with balloons (1-2, 2-2, 3-2, 4-2), scrolls (25), heavy objects (14), miniature remote control cars (5-1), miniature helicopters (6-1), small rockets (9), skidding tools and car rods (17). The suspension type road traffic warning signs and the sign system are suitable for the condition that warning signs must be set when cars are broken down in driving.

Abstract: In an outdoor unit, at least the name of a refrigerant used is indicated on the outer side of a cover.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a terminal marker used to identify a terminal block. The terminal marker includes a front having a print surface, a back, sides, and flexible legs. The flexible legs can be positioned in a natural state for installation in the terminal block or a compressed state for obtaining a marking from a printer. In the natural state, the flexible legs extend at an angle with respect to the print surface of the terminal marker. In the compressed state, the flexible legs extend outward beyond of the sides of the terminal marker.

Abstract: A muzzle device for simultaneously mitigating the four major physical effects caused when a projectile is fired; muzzle climb, concussion, and recoil without an increased muzzle flash signature is provided. The muzzle device can include a cylindrical body defining an expansion chamber and can include a securing mechanism arranged at a proximal end and an end wall arranged at a distal end. An opening sized for a projectile can be arranged in the distal end wall. At least one distal tuning vent can be arranged in the distal end wall about the opening. A plurality of radial exhaust vents can be arranged through a cylindrical wall of the cylindrical body. The expansion chamber can define a fixed volume and the tuning and exhaust vents can define an open area.

Abstract: A recoil reducing buffer and stock adaptor having a front portion adapted to fit into and connectively engage with the backplate of an H&K-style rifle and a rear portion comprising an aperture adapted to accept and connectively engage with an AR-15/M16 buffer tube. The adaptor attaches to an H&K-style rifle between the action or receiver and the buttstock and allows the rifle to accept and function with a larger and/or stronger H&K-style rifle buffer than its original factory-installed buffer. The adaptor reduces the recoil of an H&K-style rifle by allowing the rifle to function with a larger and/or stronger H&K-style recoil buffer than its original factory-installed buffer. The adaptor also makes substantially all existing H&K-style rifles compatible with substantially all current and existing H&K-style rifle stocks and AR-style rifle stocks and stock accessories.

Abstract: A magazine release device is affixed to a firearm and operable from either side of the firearm. The device includes a shaft extending between opposite sides of the lower receiver and movable longitudinally between an engaged and a disengaged orientation. A spring biases the shaft into the engaged orientation. A plate, affixed to one end of the shaft, includes an inwardly directed catch that engages with a magazine when the shaft is in the engaged orientation and disengages from the magazine when the shaft is moved to the disengaged orientation. A right hand actuation button is affixed to the shaft on the right side of the lower receiver and a left hand actuation button is affixed to the plate on the left side and each actuation button controls the shaft and plate between the disengaged orientation and the engaged orientation.

Abstract: Ejection assemblies, actions including such ejection assemblies, and firearms including such actions and/or ejection assemblies are provided herein. At least one ejection assembly is provided that is configured to facilitate forward ejection of spent cartridges when a forward-ejection guide cover is in place on a receiver, and to allow for side ejection of spent cartridges when the forward-ejection guide cover is out of place on the receiver. Such a configuration may allow for reliable ejection and access to the action for clearance of jams or malfunctions while providing flexibility with forward or conventional side ejection.

Abstract: Devices and methods for altering a firearm to prevent firing of rounds of a first size while allowing the firing of rounds of a smaller, second size are provided. In one embodiment, a barrel safety device prevents a live round from fully chambering in a firearm, while allowing a blank to be chambered and fired from the firearm. The barrel safety device includes a muzzle block, a rod, and a tip in one embodiment. The rod and the tip can be sized so as obstruct a portion of the barrel and/or the bullet chamber of the firearm, such that a round having a first length, such as a live round, contacts the tip of the barrel safety device and cannot be fully chambered. The rod and the tip can be sized so as to allow a cartridge having a second, smaller length, such as a blank cartridge, to be fully chambered without contacting the tip of the barrel safety device.

Abstract: A firearm control system for a firearm authorized for use by a person having a validated identity comprises a firearm having a frame, barrel, firing mechanism and trigger. An interlock system is provided for enabling and disabling operation of the firearm, the interlock system being disposed on the frame and including a communications/control module, a trigger module operatively connected to the communication/control module, and operatively connected to the trigger to sense attempted operation of the trigger by a user and send signals to the communications/control module, and a firing mechanism module operatively connected to the communication/control module, and to the firing mechanism to enable or disable operation of the firing mechanism. The interlock system operates to enable and disable operation of the firearm based on signals sent to, and received from, the communications/control module.

Abstract: A gun barrel assembly includes an outer casing, an inner liner and a tubular breech insert, all of which extend longitudinally from a muzzle end to a breech end. The casing is composed of a polymeric material or resin matrix material filled with carbon fibers and the liner is composed of a metal material. A muzzle end portion of the insert is disposed within the breech end portion of the casing bore. One or more structures on the breech insert muzzle end portion are interlocked with the casing breech end portion.

Abstract: Disclosed is a firearm assembly that includes a monolithic rail platform that includes an upper receiver, a barrel assembly received in the upper receiver, and a top rail integral with the monolithic rail platform that extends over a portion of the barrel assembly.

Abstract: Implementations of a multiple accessory gun mount are provided. In some implementations, through the use of interchangeable accessory adaptors, a user may configure the multiple accessory gun mount to position and secure a variety of accessories in a variety of configurations on a firearm. In some implementations, the multiple accessory gun mount may comprise a hub having a top side, a bottom side, and a first side. In some implementations, an accessory such as a front sight may be secured directly to the top side of the hub. In some implementations, an accessory adaptor may be secured to the top side, the first side, and/or the second side of the hub. In this way, an end user may use one or more accessory adaptors to secure one or more firearm accessories to the hub in a variety of configurations based on the end user's needs and/or preferences.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a firearm stabilization apparatus having (1) a main body further having a stopped dado which forms a depression on a front surface of the main body; a first magnet positioned within the depression; a slot along a edge of the main body; and a second magnet positioned within the slot; and (2) a firearm further with a third magnet.

Abstract: An adjustable scope mount for a projectile weapon can include a base and a mounting piece pivotally attached to the base. The mounting piece can include a first bore that is substantially the same size as a first bore of the base and a second bore that is substantially the same size as a second bore of the base. The respective first bores of the base and mounting piece can be positioned such that when they completely overlap, the mounting piece is positioned at a first minute of angle setting. Likewise, the respective second bores of the base and mounting piece can be positioned such that when they completely overlap, the mounting piece is positioned at a second minute of angle setting. Related methods of using and manufacturing the adjustable scope mount are also described.

Abstract: A rifle scope having a body and a reticle mounted within the body, an elevation adjustment means for adjusting an elevation sighting of the reticle and including a vertically oriented elevation adjustment knob extending from a side of the body and being rotatable in a vertical plane about a horizontal axis to vertically adjust the elevation sighting of the reticle, and a windage adjustment means for adjusting the windage sighting of the retical and including a horizontally oriented windage adjustment knob extending from the body so as to be rotatable in a horizontal plane about a vertical axis to adjust the windage sighting of the reticle.

Abstract: A decoy suitable for hunting geese comprising a silhouette portion, side body portions attached to the silhouette portion capable of being folded into a one dimensional appearance or unfolded into a three-dimensional honeycomb appearance resembling the body of a goose from below the neck to the tail, and a stake attached to the bottom of the silhouette portion for insertion into the ground.

Abstract: A fishing pole system includes a shaft having a hollow interior with a cap connected to its upper end and a point connected to its lower end. A slide is positioned within the hollow interior and an internal lead is connected to the slide at its lower end, the internal lead extends through the cap and connects to a swivel at its upper end. The slide includes a locking mechanism which engages a locking mechanism connected to the point. In use, the cap end of the fishing pole is banged on the ground which releases the slide from the point and the internal lead is paid-out from the hollow interior. To store the fishing pole, the slide is withdrawn within the hollow interior by gravity. When fully withdrawn, the point is banged into the ground causing the slide to lock to the point and the fishing pole is stored away.

Abstract: A fishing rod retainer is disclosed, the retainer having a retainer body with one or more surfaces forming a perimeter. At least two openings are disposed within the surface and extending into the retainer, each opening forming a channel. A line retention groove extends at least partially along the surface, the retention groove configured to receive a portion of fishing line when the retainer is in use.

Abstract: A support device includes a body and a positioning device mounted on the body for coupling with a fishing reel. A longitudinal hole for receiving a fishing rod extends from a front end through a rear end of the body. A gripping portion is provided on the rear end and includes a coupling portion for coupling with the fishing reel. A finger of a user can grip the front section and can touch a surface section of the fishing rod via a lower opening in a front section of a lower side of the gripping portion. Another finger of the user can grip the rear section and can touch another surface section of the fishing rod via a lateral through-hole formed in a rear section of the lower side and extending from a left side through a right side of the body.

Abstract: A fishing lure imitating a bird has a body having a central long axis with equal longitudinal buoyancy, a set of two simulated eyes, groups of buoyant flexible strands each joined at one end to the body simulating extended bird wings, and a hook element disposed longitudinally through the cylindrical body with a shank extending rearward in the body along the long axis, the shank exiting the body in an upward-facing lengthwise recess, then bending forward to present a hook point.

Abstract: A fish stringer has a locking body that receives an insert, with a loop being formed by means of a cable which is connected to the locking body at a first end and the insert at a second end. To allow the insert to be coupled with the locking body, an insert-receiving cavity traverses into the locking body, creating a receptacle for the insert. The insert has a handle portion that allows the insert to be manipulated even when a tongue portion is within the insert-receiving cavity. A latching mechanism on the insert engages a latch receptacle on the locking body to secure the insert to the locking body. The latching mechanism is a flexible arm with a tab at one end, the flexible arm being deformed from an equilibrium position as the tongue slides into the insert-receiving cavity until the tab becomes aligned and engaged with the latch receptacle.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for damaging a flying pest comprising: a housing connected to a continuous perforated side wall to a laser contacting surface; a laser beam generator and a laser rotating mechanism attached to the housing and positioned to transmit a laser beam generally radially downward toward the laser contacting surface in a 360 degree pattern on the laser contacting surface, wherein the laser beam contacts and damages a flying pest; a control mechanism in communication with the laser beam generator to control the generation of the laser beam and in communication with the laser rotating mechanism to control one or more parameters relating to the pattern; and a power supply in electrical communication with the control mechanism, the laser rotating mechanism, and the laser beam generator.

Abstract: There is provided a method for culturing microalgae in which microalgae capable of forming a biofilm on a liquid surface are cultured so as to form a biofilm on a liquid surface of a liquid medium, and microalgae capable of forming the biofilm on the liquid surface, for example, microalgae closely related to Botryococcus sudeticus.

Abstract: Provided is a method for preparing a coal mixture used for the purpose of producing coke with desired strength by taking into account the compatibility between coals for cokemaking. In the case of preparing a coal mixture, used as at least one portion of a coal blend for cokemaking, containing two or more types of coals with different surface tensions, the blending ratio of each of the coals is adjusted using the surface tension of a semicoke mixture obtained from the coal mixture as an indicator.

Abstract: Root-growth stimulating compounds are applied to plants to stimulate growth of roots on the stem of a plant for air layering. The root-growth stimulating compounds may be applied by wrapping part of the plant with a tape that includes the root-growth stimulating compounds. The tape may include a gel layer that is impregnated or coated with the root-growth stimulating compounds. The root-growth compound may additionally or alternatively be applied to a plant by affixing a clamshell-type device around part of the plant. The device may hold a porous material containing the root-growth stimulating compounds in contact with the plant. Both the tape and the clamshell-type device may block light from reaching the covered portion of the plant thereby causing chlorosis.

Abstract: A flower gift kit, the gift kit comprising: an enclosure (12); a presentation tray (9) for a flower (10); an insert (13) configured to be generally flat beneath said presentation tray between said presentation tray and a flower of said enclosure; and wherein said insert is user-erectable into a 3D stand for said flower.

Abstract: A modular wick for accommodating garden beds of various sizes comprises a generally planar platform Connectors are provided proximate to an outer edge of the platform that allow for connection with an adjacent wick. Each of the wick comprises at least one well that is filled with a wicking medium. Apertures are provided in the walls of the wells to allow water to enter into the wicking medium. By connecting the wicks together, various sizes can be formed.

Abstract: Sap-collecting devices, systems and methods for sap-producing saplings are disclosed. The saplings each have at least one stem, which is cut to form a top end at a reasonable height above ground. The sap-collecting system includes a sap-collecting device that fits over the top end and forms a vacuum-tight seal with the stem. The sap-collecting device includes an interior and an access port open to the interior. The access port can be connected to a line system. A vacuum system is operably connected to the line system and forms a vacuum within the sap-collecting device. This serves to draw the sap from the top end of the sapling, through the sap-collecting device, through the line system and to a collecting tank. A plantation growth, management, and sap-collecting system that comprises the sap-collecting system and a stand of saplings is also disclosed.

Abstract: Crop-specific automated irrigation include environmental medium and management of nutrients. Operation of an irrigation apparatus can be regulated according to specific water demand of a crop. The water demand can be assessed by evaluating water content conditions of the environmental medium comprising the crop, medium characteristics, and/or nutrient delivery and transport characteristics at the medium. Regulation of operation of the irrigation apparatus can comprise control of one or more of water supply to the apparatus, positioning and/or movement of the irrigation apparatus, or configuration of sensing devices for collection of information suitable for such regulation.

Abstract: A plant pot with Elevated Ventilation Hole (EVH) comprises a pot section having a bottom wall and a side wall surrounding and connected to the bottom wall, the bottom wall and the side wall together defining an accommodation space for accommodating soil and plants, a bottom surface of the bottom wall having an inward recess portion with an adjustable height, the height being capable of manually adjusted to form a ventilation hole correspondingly, wherein a position of the ventilation hole corresponds to the adjustable height.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a container for storing and planting seeds, bulbs or tubers, the container comprising a housing made of a non-water soluble material, wherein the housing comprises a first compartment for receiving a seed, bulb or tuber, wherein the first compartment is essentially free of water, and a second compartment arranged below the first compartment, for receiving nutrients promoting growth of the seed, bulb or tuber. Still in accordance with the present invention, the container comprises a separation layer between the first and the second compartments, wherein the housing has a rounded shape at its bottom and the container has a center of gravity arranged such that the container is adapted to erect itself when it is deposited on a supporting surface in a tilted manner.

Abstract: An apparatus for growing living organisms having at least one growing unit adapted to receive at least one living organism, a source of fluid, a conduit operably connecting the source of fluid and the growing unit in fluid supplying relation, and at least one system for supplying the requirements by which the living organism can grow in the growing unit.

Abstract: A device for growing vegetables and plants in aquaponic conditions is disclosed. The device includes a plurality of sheets, each having an inner surface and an outer surface. The plurality of sheets includes a plurality of protruded openings at the outer surface. The plurality of sheets are attached together and then rolled up to form a container like structure for growing plants. The plant seeds are inserted into the plurality of protruded openings. Then water is sprayed inside the container like structure directed away from the center and nutrients are sprayed directly to the roots of the plants. The device provides growth of plants in shorter time and maximum growing area in limited footage.

Abstract: According to certain embodiments, an apparatus for rotating a plurality of plants in and out of a nutrient solution and around a light source, wherein the row of plants is affixed at a specified angle to ensure proper nourishment for the plants, the rows having apertures to hold the plants and annular cross sections to house the nutrient solution, and a driving device to set the apparatus in motion.

Abstract: A method for cogenerating gas-steam based on gasification and methanation of biomass. The method includes: 1) mixing oxygen and water vapor with biomass, transporting the resulting mixture via a nozzle to a gasifier, gasifying the biomass to yield crude gasified gas, and transporting superheated steam having a pressure of 5-6 MPa resulting from sensible heat recovery to a steam turbine; 2) adjusting the hydrogen/carbon ratio of the crude gasified gas generated from step 1) to 3:1, and eluting the crude gasified gas whereby yield purified syngas; 3) introducing the purified syngas from step 2) to a methanation unit and transporting intermediate pressure superheated steam generated in the methanation unit to the steam turbine; and 4) concentrating methane of synthetic natural gas containing trace nitrogen and water vapor obtained from step 3) through pressure swing adsorption.