Abstract: A fingertip mountable shaving device is provided by a flexible and breathable substrate layer including a first shaving surface, and a second adhesive surface opposite to the first shaving surface. The first shaving surface includes a plurality of rubber strips along the vertical peripheral edge and a plurality of blade assemblies affixed at predetermined locations. The blade assemblies of include a vertical stack of a plurality of rotary blades of different diameters alternately interspaced by spacers and having a hemi-spherical protective cap with a vertical stem, on the top. The second adhesive surface is coated with an adhesive suitable for temporarily mounting the device on a fingertip and is covered with a releasably connected protective peel off layer. The device can safely and closely shave hair from the face and other difficult to reach body surfaces, such as within the ear or nostrils.

Abstract: A twine cutting apparatus for a bale processor has a guide extending along a length of a floor of the bale chamber, and a knife engaged in the guide and configured such that the knife can slide along the length of the drum and such that a cutting edge of the knife contacts twine wrapped around an outer surface of the drum. A rigid handle is attached at a knife end thereof to the knife and is configured to be gripped by an operator at a grip end thereof outside the bale chamber. A twine access area can be provided on the drum surface to facilitate cutting twine, and the apparatus can be stored inside the bale chamber during operation of the bale processor.

Abstract: A relocating device for locating and relocating a first object relative to a second object is for use in association with a means for defining a location point on the second object. The relocating device includes at least one light source, a power source. The at least one light source is producing at least two beams of light wherein each beam of light is capable of defining a beam location point on the second object. The at least one light source is operably connected to the first object. The power is source operably connected to the at least one light source. The means for defining a location point on the second object defines each beam location point on the second object.

Abstract: A portable target comprising: (a) a complaint, energy-absorbing backer; (b) a target on a surface of said backer; and (c) a support mechanism for holding said surface of said backer in a vertical position.

Abstract: Provided is a measuring head (1) for a feeler (2) of workpieces (3) being machined, including a fixed portion (10) to be secured to an outer fixed support, a movable portion (11) including a constraint element (14) for a feeler arm (4), a rotational hinge (12) adapted to connect the fixed portion (10) to the movable portion (11), wherein the fixed portion (10), movable portion (11) and pivot bearing (12) are of one piece construction.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices and a system for compensating for thermal expansion and contraction of rail mounted solar panel rooftop systems. In one aspect, a floating end clamp that secures a solar panel in slidable captive cooperation with a mounting rail. In another aspect, a rail splice bridges two mounting rails with a gap between the rails for thermal expansion and contraction. The rail splice includes indicia for setting the gap distance between rails based on ambient temperature at the time of installation. In another aspect, a spacing gauge includes indicia for setting the gap distance between rails based on ambient temperature at the time of installation.

Abstract: An adaptor can convert a conventional hot air clothes dryer to draw air from outside instead of inside a building, and comprises an adaptor housing securable over the air intake region of the dryer in fluid communication with the air inlet of the dryer, with an adaptor housing inlet connectable to an air intake linkage. A filter and filter bypass assembly can be used in combination with the adaptor. The assembly comprises an outer enclosure and an inner enclosure inside the outer enclosure. An inner enclosure inlet and inner enclosure outlet define a first airflow path through the inner enclosure and an outer enclosure inlet and outer enclosure outlet define a second airflow path through the outer enclosure and bypassing the inner enclosure. The inner enclosure and the outer enclosure have a common aperture for insertion of a filter into the inner enclosure across the first airflow path.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for drying electronic devices are disclosed. Embodiments include methods and apparatuses that heat and decrease pressure within the electronic device. Some embodiments increase and decrease pressure while adding heat. Other embodiments include a desiccator for removing moisture from the air being evacuated from the electronic device prior to the air reaching an evacuation pump. Further embodiments detect humidity within the low-pressure chamber and determine when to increase and/or decrease pressure based on the humidity. Still further embodiments determine that the device is sufficiently dry to restore proper function based on the detected humidity, and in some embodiments based on the changes in humidity while pressure is being increased and/or decreased. Still further alternate embodiments automatically control some or all aspects of the drying of the electronic device. Additional embodiment disinfect the electronic device.

Abstract: Energy efficiencies are achieved in a dryer or washer/dryer by selectively varying temperature ranges, time periods, heater power levels, and air flow rates. Efficiency improvements on the order of 16% were obtained over typical constant power, constant temperature, timed drying cycles by varying one or more of these parameters. Efficiencies can also be improved by drawing air from alternative warm sources such as an attic or warm external environment, or by heat recovery from dryer exhaust passages.

Abstract: A removable traction device for wearing over an article of footwear includes an outer peripheral band; a traction area defined within the outer peripheral band and including a removable traction member; and a plurality of resilient connecting strands extending between the traction area and the outer peripheral band. The traction area includes an exterior ground engaging surface and an interior surface opposite thereto and the interior surface includes a peripheral flange defining a traction member receiving pocket, such that the removable traction member is insertable into and removable from the traction member receiving pocket.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a shoe including an outsole, an upper, and a lining member integrated into the shoe. The sling includes a receptacle portion and a fastener assembly portion. The receptacle portion, which generally lines the interior of the shoe, is secured along the collar of the upper such that the sock is movably suspended within the foot cavity. The fastener assembly is includes a central web and fasteners that wrap around the ankle of a wearer.

Abstract: A snap-in footbed system according to embodiments of the present invention includes a shoe, wherein the shoe includes an inner surface and an outer surface, an aperture formed in a molded portion of the shoe from the inner surface to the outer surface, a footbed, wherein a top surface of the footbed is configured to receive a user's foot, wherein the footbed comprises a snap-in element, wherein the snap-in element comprises a head portion having at least one dimension that is sized to be larger than the aperture, such that when the head portion is passed through the aperture from the inner surface to the outer surface, one or both of the head portion and the aperture undergo elastic deformation, and such that when the head portion has been passed through the aperture, the snap-in element secures the footbed to the shoe.

Abstract: A fluid-filled chamber may include including an outer barrier, a plate having indentations, and a fluid. The plate may be located within barrier and secured to an inner surface of the barrier. The fluid is also located within the barrier and pressurized to place an outward force upon the barrier. The indentations in the plate may permit flexing of the plate in one direction while obstructing flexing of the plate in another direction. Accordingly, the plate may enhance shape-retention properties of the chamber while also enhancing an overall transparency of the chamber.

Abstract: An insert for soles, particularly for perforated soles made of polymeric material, comprising a membrane that is impermeable to water and permeable to water vapor, the insert comprising a supporting layer made of mesh, felt or other diffusely perforated material, a vapor permeation component, which comprises the membrane arranged above the supporting layer, a layer of polymeric material that impregnates locally the supporting layer, so as to form therein a matrix for the adhesive bonding thereof to other components of the shoe, a region for sealing the supporting layer to the vapor permeation component. The adhesive bonding matrix affects at least the perimetric region of the supporting layer and delimits at least one vapor-permeable portion of the supporting layer, which is free from polymeric material. The sealing region provides for the intimate grip of the polymeric material, which impregnates the supporting layer, to the membrane.

Abstract: A shoe includes a shoe upper, a first lace and a second lace. The shoe upper includes a heel end, a toe end, and a mid-foot portion between the heel end and the toe end. The first lace is connected to the shoe upper and includes a wide portion and a narrow portion with a tapered portion in-between. The wide portion of the first lace is fastened to the mid-foot portion of the shoe upper at a first position that is nearer to the toe end than the heel end. The second lace is also connected to the shoe upper and also includes a wide portion and a narrow portion with a tapered portion in-between. The wide portion of the second lace is fastened to the mid-foot portion of the shoe upper at a second position that is nearer to the heel end than the first position.

Abstract: An article of footwear having an upper secured to an outsole in combination having three toe pockets, the first toe pocket having a configuration to separately receive within a big toe of a wearer, and the second toe pocket having a configuration to separately receive within a second toe of the wearer, and the third toe pocket having a configuration to receive within the remaining third toe, fourth toe and fifth toe of the wearer.

Abstract: An outer sole for a golf shoe includes a plurality of cleats distributed along a forefoot area and a heel area. The cleats are integrated with the outer sole and extend from a surface of the outer sole that faces away from the shoe. The plurality of cleats includes at least a larger sized set of cleats and a smaller sized set of cleats. Such outer sole for a golf shoe gives good traction on the golf course but is also useable as a casual shoe off the golf course.

Abstract: A method to display a foot ornamentation system includes obtaining a foot ornamentation system that has a bottom band constructed from an elastomeric material for compressing the system snugly against a foot. The system has a first side panel and a second side panel that are flexible for conforming to a contour of a foot side. The system has a decorative member with an interior surface that has a smooth profile and a non-slip surface for interfacing with the foot top surface. The method includes donning the system by expanding an interior open area of the system via the stretchable bottom band then sliding over an end of a foot into a first position where the decorative member is located on a foot top surface. The method includes donning footwear with an open top that allows the system to be displayed.

Abstract: An excavation system employing a high-pressure pulsed air jet that may optionally be used 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: Machines are often used to collect and transport materials in a work environment. One of the more common methods of collecting and transporting materials is with a fork having tines. Another common instrument attached to a machine for collecting and transporting materials is a bucket. The present disclosure describes a bucket that engages the tines of a fork, and therefore can be used with a machine that already has a fork attached. The present disclosure also engages with tines of multiple lengths, meaning that the same bucket will engage with forks from different machines. The bucket has first and second side members; a collecting member extending between the first and second side members; and an engagement portion having an engagement surface and a pocket.

Abstract: A dipper assembly includes a dipper, a dipper door, and a closure mechanism. The dipper door is coupled to the dipper, and has a closed position in which the dipper door covers the dipper bottom. The closure mechanism has a first position and a second position. In the first position the closure mechanism is configured to permit movement of the dipper door away from the dipper bottom. In the second position, the closure mechanism is configured to retain the dipper door in the closed position. The closure mechanism includes a link having a first leg and a second leg, one or more side link plates coupled to the link and to the dipper back, and a closure mechanism pin assembly configured to adjust the position of the link relative to the dipper door.

Abstract: A decorated card having at least one leaf, and a cutout formed in the leaf and defined by a cutout outline. The card is characterized by the fact that it has at least two threads extending under tension across the cutout outline, and a plurality of spangles, the spangles being held suspended from each of the threads under tension so as to cover at least part of the area defined by the cutout outline. A manufacturing method is also provided.

Abstract: A device for storing and displaying documents, photographs, and memorabilia objects together. Covers are each rotatably connected to a spine and feature sides that rest upon or engage with each other to close. The device has a plurality of document pockets and a plurality of bound archival sheets. Within the device is a plurality of object compartments, each compartment having a transparent cover that selectively opens for placing and removing objects and selectively closes for safely displaying the objects. The device is included in a kit that further comprises at least one complementary storage box. The device is included a system that further comprises an electronic catalogue for the photographs and objects stored therein.

Abstract: A cube display system uses a frame with upstanding outer periphery side walls. A series of uniform sized cubes has a portion of an overall picture on each face. The cubes are placed into the inner space of the frame in an appropriate position, with the appropriate face facing upwardly and properly oriented. When all of the cubes are so placed, the overall picture is displayed. Different pictures are formed when displaying different faces of the cubes. An opening is located underneath each cube such that a finger or a poking tool is inserted through the opening in order to dislodge a particular cube from the cube matrix. The openings are encompassed by a magnetically attractive material and another magnetically attractive material is disposed on each face in order for the cubes and base to magnetically attract each other. Alternately, the frame is a banding frame that cinches the formed matrix.

Abstract: A magazine is disclosed including a storage tube and a biasing member positioned within the storage tube. A strip engages the follower and extends toward a distal end of the storage tube. A display member is coupled to the strip and is viewable through the storage tube. The display member displays a state of the strip. The strip may be coupled to the follower and wrap around an axle or spool engaging an axle. The display member may be a window such that a portion of the strip around the axle is viewable. The strip may include visual indicators that are visible through the window and indicate a number of rounds within the magazine. A switch may be selectively activated to illuminate a portion of the strip viewable through the window.

Abstract: An electrical weapon system includes a power supply; a control electronics connected to the power supply; and an electrode pair, wherein the control electronics are configured to deliver a voltage having a determined voltage level and modulation across the electrode pair based on the electrode pair coming into contact with a target, and wherein the electrode pair is integrated into clothing or equipment of a user.

Abstract: The present invention is an ammunition magazine, preferably made of a reinforced polymer, utilizing a structurally enhancing ridge, angular guide rails and a follower made to interface with said guide rails to reduce wobble. The preferred embodiment also features a protective cover that distributes forces from the spring to more structurally sound areas of the magazine, thus reducing feed end splay, and an ammunition indication system comprised of at least one window and a noticeable marker on the follower spring. The follower and magazine casing are also designed to interface to prevent the follower from popping out of the feed end and the floor plate of the magazine utilizes a locking plate and sliding relationship between the floor plate, locking plate and magazine to secure the floor plate onto the magazine casing. The cover features built in tools for, among other things, unloading and disassembling the magazine.

Abstract: A trigger lock for a gun having a trigger and a trigger guard. The trigger lock has a first housing part and a second housing part and at least one of the parts includes a shackle which is insertable through the trigger guard so that the housing parts are on opposite sides of the trigger guard and so that the shackle prevents actuation of the trigger. A latch is mounted to one of the housing parts and movable between a locked and an unlocked position. In its locked position, the latch engages the shackle and secures the housing parts together. Conversely, in the unlocked position, the latch releases the shackle so that the housing parts may be separated from each other. A fingerprint scanner on one of the housing parts generates an output signal when swiped by a fingerprint. That signal is received by a processor programmed to identify one or more authorized users of the gun and, when the authorized user fingerprint swipe is identified, activates a mechanism to move the latch to the unlocked position.

Abstract: An innovative design described in this application retains the buffer and recoil spring within the folded portion of the buttstock or buffer tube so the stock can fold. There are alternative ways to retain the buffer and recoil spring within a folded buttstock. The bolt carrier is not physically attached to the buffer and recoil spring. A folding stock assembly which contains the buffer and buffer spring within the folded portion of the stock for a firearm that uses a direct gas impingement system.

Abstract: A ramrod for a muzzleloader is provided. The ramrod includes a shaft having a knob releasably coupled to one end thereof, the knob having a rounded end and a tapered end that oppose one another. The knob may have a central bore therein, and the shaft may be inserted into the central bore. The tapered end of the knob is configured with respect to the shaft to allow any object that contacts the shaft and slides along the shaft to also slide along and eventually off of the tapered end of the knob without snagging or catching the knob. The rounded end of the knob is positioned at a distal end of the shaft and is configured with respect to the shaft to allow a user of the ramrod to place his/her palm against the rounded end while operating the ramrod to load a muzzleloader.

Abstract: A bullet-free training magazine designed to simulate real firing sounds and sights. The magazine is part of a magazine assembly which includes a magazine adaptor, a push to fire (PTF) trigger shaped to fit over a regular weapon trigger and to a fire flashlight. The PTF trigger and the fire flashlight are connected physically to the adaptor through two separate electrical cables. The magazine and the adaptor are coupled electrically through matching electrical interfaces and are designed for combined insertion into the magazine housing of a weapon. The magazine adaptor includes a first section adapted to attach to a magazine insertion member and including an adaptor electrical interface, a second section with two electrical sockets connected to the electrical cables, and a mounting adaptor member for mounting the magazine adaptor to fit into the magazine housing and into a firing chamber of the weapon.

Abstract: A launcher system, advantageously in kit form, is provided. The system generally includes a launching device, a pistol grip frame, and stock assembly. The pistol grip frame is characterized by a frame body and a pistol grip extending therefrom, the frame body having a first frame body portion adapted for select operative union with the launching device, and a second frame body portion adapted for select operative union with the stock assembly. The stock assembly is adapted for select operative union with the second frame body portion of the frame body of the pistol grip frame. No-tool select operator union of elements of the system is enabled.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a tool body having parallel columns extending from a common base. The base includes a lip extending outward from the columns defining an anvil for receiving a delta ring. A cutter has a body slidably disposed between the columns. A blade extends outward from the cutter body in opposition to the anvil and is aligned by transverse guide pins extending through guide slots in the columns. In operation, a section of the delta ring is positioned between the blade and the anvil. The blade is driven toward the anvil by any of various mechanical, pneumatic, and/or hydraulic mechanisms connected to the stanchion and blade, the simplest of which is a bolt extending through the cutter body and received in a threaded bore in the base. Preferably, the anvil includes a slot for receiving the blade at the extreme of its travel as the ring is severed.

Abstract: An underwater firearm system includes a gun; a sealable plastic bag; a tube; and a plastic material sealing the tube. The sealable plastic bag seals in the firearm and keeps it dry when moved underwater. The sealable plastic bag is configured to enable a shooter to hold the firearm therein placed and pull the trigger, which for example may include a finger cavity that extends through the trigger guard so that a shooter's finger may be inserted into the tubular cavity to engage the trigger. The tube has an inner dimension at least as large as the bore of the gun. The plastic material seals the tube against the inflow of water when the tube is moved underwater. A removable watertight cap optionally fits over the barrel and plastic bag at the muzzle to reseal the sealable plastic bag after having been breached by discharge of the firearm.

Abstract: The present invention includes improvements for fishing lures. In some embodiments, a blade of a fishing lure includes a louvered hole. The louvered hole increases the blade turning action as water moves through the hole making the lure more enticing to fish resulting in more bites/strikes. The size, shape, type, color, texture and other characteristics of the blade and the overall lure are all changeable. In a second embodiment, a lure includes one or more elongated tails. In some embodiments, the elongated tails float, spin, slow down the lure and/or generate an appearance similar to a living creature. Again, the other characteristics of the lure with elongated tails are all changeable.

Abstract: A fishing lure includes a weighted body, a first eye hook, a second eye hook, and a fish hook. The weighted body has a first end and a second end. The first eye hook is coupled near the first end of the weighted body. The second eye hook is coupled near the second end of the weighted body. The fish hook has an eyelet formed at one end. The eyelet is coupled to the second eye hook allowing the fish hook to freely move about the eyelet.

Abstract: A fishing hook has a head having at least two vertically arranged holes through which a fishing line is inserted. When the fishing line is threaded through both of the vertically disposed holes, the hook is stabilized in a substantially orthogonal posture relative to the fishing line, thus enhancing the likelihood of catching fish, especially with a drop-shot technique. Because the single head is small and compact, it is not exposed when the lure is affixed to the hook, thereby improving the likelihood that fish will be tempted by the lure.

Abstract: A tomato booster is disclosed with stackable hollow cylinders and vertical interlocking doors adapted to allow a tomato plant space for growth of secondary root systems in a vertical position. A method of using the tomato booster is also disclosed.

Abstract: An improved plant breeding system for high throughput analysis of plant phenotype and genotype is provided. A method for analyzing the impact of genetic modifications on plants and selecting a plant with a genetic modification of interest is also provided. Also provided is a method for developing marketable information for improved plant breeding and a method for collecting data on a selected plant phenotype for rapid analysis of the effect of a genetic modification on the selected phenotype.

Abstract: A multi-panel door assembly is arrangeable into multiple configurations. The multi-panel door assembly includes at least three panel positions, including a first side position, a second side position, and a center position between the first and second side positions, and a corresponding at least three door panels. A fixed door panel is fixed in the first side position, and a secondary door panel is displaceable between the first side position and the second side position. A swinging door jamb is selectively displaceable between an engaged position where the primary door panel is displaceable between the center position and the second side position, and a disengaged position, where the primary door panel is displaceable between the first side position and the second side position.

Abstract: A door entryway system can include a door sweep capable of attachment to a bottom of a door panel. The system also includes a threshold assembly having a self-articulating threshold cap configured to be biased toward the door sweep and interact therewith to form a sealing barrier when the door panel is in a closed position.

Abstract: A door entryway system can include a door sweep capable of attachment to a bottom of a door panel. The system also includes a threshold assembly having a self-articulating threshold cap configured to self-adjust toward the door sweep and interact therewith to form a sealing barrier when the door panel is in a closed position.

Abstract: A door weather strip for a motor vehicle, which can be readily produced, and readily and securely attached to a corner of a door frame without coming off the same. In an upper side section and an upper side part of a corner section of the door weather strip, the door weather strip includes an exterior weather strip, an interior weather strip and a connecting section. The exterior weather strip includes an exterior base portion for attachment to the door frame or a door molding, and an exterior seal portion for contacting a door opening portion of a vehicle body when a door is closed, and the interior weather strip includes an interior base portion and an interior seal portion. A reinforcing rib is formed in a rear surface of the exterior base portion in the upper side part of the corner section.

Abstract: An anti-trap protection unit for an electric window lifter of a vehicle or generally to efficiently limit excess forces of an adjusting element that can be driven by means of a drive unit is provided. For this purpose, a compensation trajectory of the drive unit is determined independent of the temperature, and a variable threshold function which is dependent on the temperature is determined as a function of the drive trajectory or the drive time, the threshold function approaching a defined threshold value asymptotically, and the drive force especially in the form of a measured speed of a drive motor being continuously determined and being monitored in accordance with the determined threshold function.

Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an attachment and an air beam comprising a hug strap attached to a hug strap pad, the hug strap adapted to connect with the attachment, and the hug strap pad adapted to attach to the air beam. A method of securing an attachment to an air beam comprising providing an air beam, attaching a hug strap to a hug strap pad, securing the hug strap pad (with the hug strap attached) to the air beam, and securing the attachment to the hug strap.

Abstract: A structure includes a base, a first side wall rotatably attached to the base, a second side wall rotatably attached to the base, a roof guidingly coupled to both the first side wall and the second side wall, and a biasing assembly selectively urging the building into a fully erected configuration.

Abstract: Devices, methods, and systems are provided herein for spacing an outer skin of a roof from the supporting structure of the roof such that the roof shields against weather elements, admits light, and allows advantageous air circulation. In one embodiment, a wedge-shaped device for spacing panels on a roof includes a bottom surface, a top surface inclined at an angle relative to the bottom surface, and an integral support structure connecting the top surface and the bottom surface, the support structure including a plurality of ribs and a plurality of nail boxes.

Abstract: A reclosable mast (2) for drilling rig includes two opposed latticed structures (22), constrained at one end to the base structure (10) placed in the drilling site “P” and to each other, defining side faces (2b) of the mast (2). U-shaped structures, each include a rear bar (40), adapted to get compressed when closing the mast (2), and two side shoulders (41) parallel to each other and perpendicular to the an associated bar (40). The U-shaped structures are arranged at preset intervals between the two latticed structures (22), the rear bars defining the rear face or back (2a) of the mast (2). The mast (2) includes a diagonal members (3) located on the rear face 2a of the mast and constrained, between two superimposed U-shaped structures, the diagonal members (3) being adapted to split into at least two portions; reducing their longitudinal extension, and to allow reducing the dimension.

Abstract: An automated system which anchors the moving unit(s) of a self propelled irrigation machine to the ground in order to prevent said unit(s) from tipping over under extreme weather conditions. The automatic anchor for a self-propelled irrigation system includes a tubular body, a driving mechanism, a mounting mechanism, a shaft, a screwpile, and a control unit. The screwpile is sleeved by the tubular body and mounted onto the main frame of the moving unit(s) via the mounting mechanism. The medium shaft is telescopically connected to the screwpile on one end and operatively coupled to the driving mechanism at the other end. The control unit is communicably coupled to the driving mechanism and thus controls the rotation, position, and state of the screwpile. In the extended state, the screwpile anchors the moving unit to the ground and in the withdrawn state the screwpile is retracted thus allowing for standard operations.

Abstract: An anchorage system is provided which includes: a composite tendon (2) comprising an assembly of elongate elements (4, 5) held together and an anchor head including a casing (6). The individual elongate elements (4, 5) are separated from each other at one end extending into the anchor head, and the anchor head casing (6) is filled with an adhesive medium (10) to secure the separated elements (4, 5) in the casing (6). A method for installing an anchorage system is also provided including the steps of: inserting in a borehole at least one composite tendon (2) comprising an assembly of elongate elements (4, 5) held together; separating the individual elongate elements (4, 5) from each other over a pre-determined bonded anchor head length (22); placing an anchor head casing (6) around the separated elements (4, 5); and filling the anchor head casing (6) with an adhesive medium (10), whereby once the adhesive medium has set, the separated elements (4, 5) are securely fixed into the anchor head (6).