Abstract: A shoring system for concrete slabs is disclosed. One such system includes a drop head with a beam support member which can be moved between lower and upper positions, and a wedge member which locks the beam support member in its upper position by a translational, sliding movement thereof. Wedge member includes a narrower toe portion and a wider heel portion, and the toe portion is insertable past corresponding engagement surfaces on the post of the drop head, to support the wedge member in its upper position. The beam support member has a lower surface engaged by the wedge member and such lower surface is longitudinally spaced from the upper surface of the beam support member, so that there is open space between the wedge member and the bottom surfaces of beam supported by the upper surface of the beam support member.

Abstract: A rooftop fall protection anchor that comprises a horizontal plate, an anchor connection on the top of the horizontal plate, and at least one vertical member on the bottom of the horizontal plate. The horizontal plate and vertical member(s) are designed to butt against the building framing, and have holes to accommodate fasteners to attach the horizontal plate and vertical member(s) to the building framing. The anchor connection may have at least one opening to attach a connection device of a personal fall arrest system (PFAS).

Abstract: A method of remediating a water-damaged masonry building without removing any masonry from the building, and simultaneously providing water proofing to the structure. The method involves installing a parging coat of a reliner to the pest control wire over cleaned weep holes in masonry and to a water damaged interior portions of an installed masonry exterior wall. The reliner is cured. The method involves caulking a sill plate with gasket to a foundation of the water damaged masonry building with a silicon sealant after installing the reliner. Next each wag panel is connected to the water damaged studs forming a continuous seamless structure in the remediated building that prevents water incursion into the building after remediation of at least 95% and without removing the masonry.

Abstract: A support post comprising first and second elongate members, a ceiling engaging member at the upper end of the first elongate member and a floor engaging member at the lower end of the second elongate member. A spring biases the ceiling engaging member away from the upper end of the first elongate member. A lock maintains the spring in a compressed configuration. When in its unlocked position the lock releases the spring and permits it to apply a biasing force to the ceiling engaging member, urging the ceiling engaging member away from the upper end of the first elongate member. A latch is secured to the first elongate member and permits telescopic movement between the elongate members when said lock is in its locked position. The latch engages the second elongate member when the lock is in its unlocked position and resists relative telescopic movement between the elongate members.

Abstract: Improved aisle rail systems and methods for use in conjunction with telescopic or retractable seating systems. A handle portion is at an upper end of a post. A short arm having a roller extends radially from a lower extent of the post. The post is rotationally mounted to a deck of a bleacher system by a support socket. Interaction of the roller with a step mounted on an underlying deck resulting from relative motion of the deck on which the aisle rail system is mounted and the underlying deck results in rotation of the post and associated handle.

Abstract: A pool return fitting assembly with a pool return body, a pool return cover with an opening aligned with the pool return body's opening. The outer surface of the pool return cover may include an uneven surface bordering the opening with barriers projecting out from the pool return cover away from the pool return body, the barriers separated by channels in fluid communication with the opening through the pool return cover. A fin is positioned within the opening of the pool return cover and tapers towards the interior surface of the pool return body as the fin extends farther away from the pool return cover.

Abstract: A cleaning structure is attachable to a submersible pool cleaning vehicle (PCV). In one exemplary embodiment the PCV has an endless loop track and a chassis therefore. The cleaning structure attaches to the chassis and acts as a cap covering the drive wheels and track. The cleaning structure includes a base and bristles extending outwardly therefrom. The bristles define fingers. In one embodiment, the fingers are of a uniform length. In another embodiment, the fingers are of a graduated length. Others embodiments include the fingers being distributed on the base in a random pattern.

Abstract: A vehicle service system allowing a person in a sitting position access to the underside of a vehicle, waste recovery systems, and storage compartments.

Abstract: A suspension lift apparatus includes a platform, a plurality of direction changing sheaves and lifting sheaves mounted to the platform, a plurality of cables and a lifting mechanism positioned on the platform. Ends of cables mounted above the platform extend through the sheaves and are coupled at the opposite cable ends to the lifting mechanism disposed on the platform. Actuation of the lifting mechanism causes the platform to rise or descend. The cables are anchorable to a structure such as a ceiling above the platform. The suspension lift apparatus may include legs to provide an overhead anchor point.

Abstract: A connection assembly for a tower of a wind turbine is provided. The connection assembly includes a first tower section segment having an inner surface spaced apart from an outer surface. A second tower section segment is positioned adjacent to the first tower section segment and includes an inner surface spaced apart from an outer surface. The first tower section segment and the second tower section segment define a vertically extending gap therebetween. A connector plate includes a first connector plate portion, a second connector plate portion spaced apart from the first connector plate portion, and a third connector plate portion positioned between the first connector plate portion and the second connector plate portion. The first connector plate portion couples to the first tower section segment. The second connector plate portion couples to the second tower section segment. The third connector plate portion extends through the vertically extending gap.

Abstract: Protective barriers for protecting assets (e.g., electrical power transformers and other substation components). The protective barrier may include a lower portion and an upper portion. The lower portion may include first and second laterally spaced A-frame structures having a first protective member assembly extending between aligned legs of the respective A-frame structures on one side thereof. The first protective member assembly may include a first plurality of substantially horizontally extending protective members oriented at an angle relative to a horizontal plane. The first and second A-frame structures may have a second protective member assembly extending between aligned legs of the respective A-frame structures on an opposing side thereof. The upper portion may comprise a third protective member assembly. Methods of making a protective barrier are also disclosed.

Abstract: A cylindrical cartridge used for the storage and protection of all types of barrier fencing. The device is designed to extend the life of barrier fencing, reduce waste and reduce cost. The cartridge has an interior hollow pipe shaft with rollers mounted to the shaft to create a spool. The spool shaft extends through the top of the cartridge and is fitted with a manually operated crank handle. A vertical slotted opening in the side of the cartridge of varying widths dependent on the barrier material being used allows the extraction and retraction of the barrier fencing. The bottom of the cartridge has an opening in the center equal to that of the interior dimension of the hollow shaft. The bottom opening allows for the mounting of the cartridge to a ground spike or stabilizing plate.

Abstract: The key and cable-style lock is an alarm system that is configured for use with a cycle selected from the group consisting of a bicycle or motorcycle. The key and cable-style lock: 1) anchors the cycle to an anchor point to prevent the unauthorized use of the cycle; and, 2) generates a notification to an appropriate authority when the key and cable-style lock is compromised. The key and cable-style lock comprises a lock and a control circuit. The lock anchors the cycle to the selected anchor point.

Abstract: A holder for a two-wheeler lock, in particular of the type of a folding lock, has a support region for contacting a tube section of a two-wheeler, and a mount which comprises at least one first holding section and one second holding section, wherein the first holding section and the second holding section are spaced apart from one another and define a reception opening for the two-wheeler lock, and wherein the first holding section includes an angle with the second holding section.

Abstract: A device and process for a vehicle accessory lock are disclosed. The vehicle accessory lock includes a plunger housing defining a plunger bore and mountable through a door jamb. A security plunger, being spring-loaded, is received by the plunger housing. The security plunger, responsive to a closing force imparted by a hinged door surface against the security plunger, being operable to extend and engage a plunger receiver defined by a vehicle accessory to produce a locked vehicle accessory state.

Abstract: The object of the invention is to be able, with little expenditure of electrical energy and within a short time, to change over a lock, which can be opened electrically, such that said lock can also be opened mechanically. To achieve this, a locking device with a lock, in particular for a motor vehicle, is provided with a locking mechanism, the rotary latch of which can be latched to at least one pawl in a main latching position and in a preliminary latching position. The locking device has an electric drive with which the lock can be opened electrically in normal operation. It furthermore has an actuating device with which the lock can be changed over from normal operation to emergency operation in the event of an emergency. During this changeover, the lock is adjusted from the main latching position into the preliminary latching position, and the lock can be opened mechanically in said preliminary latching position.

Abstract: An electronic door latch includes a sensor mounted inside of an outer surface of the door. The sensor may be a proximity sensor, a touch sensor or other suitable sensor configured to determine if a user's hand is present. The door latch release system further includes a powered latch that selectively retains the door latch in a closed position. The system may include a handle formed by a flange or other structure extending across a portion of a recess or pocket in the door. The system may include a receiver that utilizes a signal from a security transmitter (e.g. keyless entry fob).

Abstract: Latch assembly including a latch arm, having first and second length edges and first and second width edges. The latch arm includes a latch pawl, a pivot connector, and a stabilizing member, positioned in a plane. The latch pawl connected to the first width edge and providing spring force resisting deflection non-parallel to the plane. The pivot connector and stabilizing member formed within an area of the latch arm. The stabilizing member extending distally relative to the second width edge to the pivot connector, and providing spring force resisting deflection parallel to the plane. The component and latch assembly including a component having first and second faces being adjacent and perpendicular. The latch arm rotatably mounted on the second face between latched and unlatched positions. Assembly including an embossment positioned to deflect the latch pawl during latching so the latch arm sits raised upon the embossment in the latched position.

Abstract: A door holding device for selectively holding and releasing a vehicle door may include a door holding arm being connected to a vehicle and slidably connected to a door of the vehicle; a plunger shaft for selectively engaging the door holding arm; a guide pin; and a channel; a guide block to guide the plunger shaft; a bearing to stabilize the travel of the door holding arm.

Abstract: A window vent stop for use in a sliding sash window assembly or a sliding door assembly. The vent stop has a housing adapted to be disposed in a recess in the non-movable sash member. This housing includes a cavity with a bottom plate therein. The tumbler has at least one pivot for pivotally securing the tumbler to the housing for movement between an extended position to prevent movement of the sliding member and a retracted position, to allow movement of the sliding member. Also within the housing is a spring for biasing the tumbler. The housing has one or more flexible members extending from the end walls of the housing that secure the housing to an opening in a window sash when a portion of the window sash is positioned between the underside of a lip on said housing and the flexible member.

Abstract: A multi-point sliding door latch intended to fit within standard sized opening in the stile of a sliding door. Preferably the latch has at least two hooks oriented in opposite directions that slide in a generally linear manner between an unlatched and latched position in response to rotation of a pair of actuators located within the latch housing. Preferably, the latch includes reinforcement blocks defining cavities with a portion of the hooks extending into the cavities when the hooks are in the latched position.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a housing fixed adjacent to a door having a hinge, a rotating arm rotatable about the housing and biased toward the door, and a transmitter electronically coupled to the rotating arm, wherein the transmitter broadcasts a position of the door.

Abstract: A constant force window balance assembly for a side-load, hung window is disclosed. A side rail of a window sash disposed in a jamb channel has a first opening. The balance assembly is installed in the jamb channel and engages the sash at the first opening to support the sash with a counterbalance force. A carrier of the balance assembly includes a body having a sash engaging seat located at an upper end that directly engages the first opening in the side wall of the side rail of the window sash. The carrier can also include a lip located at an inner side of the carrier and extending upwardly from the sash engaging seat. The carrier can also include a projection at an upper end of the body to engage a retaining aperture in an uncurled end portion of a curl spring in a pre-installed configuration of the window balance.

Abstract: A sliding door mounting system for a vehicle includes a center track configured to support a sliding door between open and closed positions. The center track member includes a first zone and a second zone with a first bend disposed therebetween at a first angle. The center track member further includes a third zone and a second bend disposed between the second zone and the third zone at a second angle. A support part includes first and second zones and a portion of the center track member is coupled to an outer surface of the support part. The first zone of the support part includes a first thickness, and the second zone of the support part includes a second thickness. The second thickness of the second zone increases from a first end to a second end thereof.

Abstract: A latch assembly connected to the drive unit of a bi-fold door for retaining the bi-fold door secure to a building has elongated straps attached to rotatable latch drums mounted on the outer ends of the drive shaft of the drive unit. Lift drums powered by a motor driven gearbox raise and lower the bi-fold door. Latch assemblies having springs attached to the straps maintain tension on the straps during the opening and closing of the bi-fold door.

Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a lever arm and a channel connected to the lever arm. The channel is adapted to be connected to an associated appliance door. A control link is pivotally connected to the lever arm. A slide body includes an inner end connected to the control link. The slide body is adapted for sliding movement in response to pivoting movement of the channel relative to the lever arm between a first (door-closed) position and a second (door-opened) position. A spring resiliently biases the channel toward the first position. A snubber system includes at least one snubber with a piston that is biased to an extended position and moveable to a retracted position against a fluid or other damping resistance during movement of the slide body away when the channel moves from the first position to the second position.

Abstract: A method for actuating a closing element of a vehicle including optically detecting a directed movement of an object to any point in an area, generating an optical mark for localizing the point if the directed movement has initially been detected; detecting a sequence of movements of the object, wherein the sequence of movements includes the directed movement, and actuating the closing element if the detected sequence of movements meets at least one predetermined requirement.

Abstract: A system and method for remotely controlling loading dock components is disclosed that includes a distribution center having at least one dock station for exchanging materials and a dock component configured to in at least two operational states. An actuator is included that is configured to change the operational state of the dock component in response to an activation signal. A mobile remote control is configured to generate the activation signal to cause the actuator to change the operational state of the dock component and at least one predefined non-activation zone is included such that changing of operational state of the dock component is inhibited when the mobile remote control is located within the at least one predefined non-activation zone.

Abstract: Provided is a vehicle communication system and a mobile device that make it possible to automatically open a vehicle door without impairing security or convenience. A vehicle communication system includes: an on-board device (1) that outputs a control signal for opening a vehicle door (D); and a mobile device (2) that transmits a reservation signal pertaining to a reservation for opening the vehicle door (D), to the on-board device (1), the on-board device (1) outputting the control signal by performing predetermined communication with the mobile device (2) upon receiving the reservation signal. The mobile device (2) includes: a mobile transmission unit that transmits the reservation signal; an acceptance unit that accepts an operation pertaining to transmission of the reservation signal; and a transmission control unit that causes the mobile transmission unit to repeatedly transmit the reservation signal upon the acceptance unit accepting the operation.

Abstract: A garage door opener system having a garage door opener and a remote input device electrically connected to the garage door opener by an electrical conductor. The remote input device receives power by the electrical conductor. The remote input device includes a device controller to communicate an event message, monitor for an acknowledgement message within a time period, and repeat the event message when the acknowledgement message is not received within a time period. The garage door opener includes a master controller. The master controller receives the event message and communicates the acknowledgement message in response to receiving the event message. Also disclosed is a method of operating the garage door opener system.

Abstract: The invention provides an attractive, easy to install, window screen that can fit the open window space adjacent to a window-mounted air conditioner for any nominally-sized window.

Abstract: A barrier includes a main body, a first edge region, and a second edge region. The first edge region can include a first bulging element, and the second edge region can include a second bulging element. The first and second edge regions can be on opposite sides of the barrier and can extend substantially parallel to each other. The main body of the barrier can include one or more regions of increased thickness. The region(s) of increased thickness can be in an intermediate location between the first bulging element and the second bulging element. The region(s) of increased thickness can be spaced from the first edge region and the second edge region such that the region(s) of increased thickness do not contact the first bulging element or the second bulging element. The main body, the first bulging element, and the second bulging element can be configured to be rolled.

Abstract: A triple-shade roller blind includes a reel shaft for reeling a curtain having front and rear shade layers and a plurality of shading strips interconnecting the front and rear shade layers, and an adjusting assembly having a rotatable coupling member journalled on a pivot pin and coupled with the reel shaft to rotate the same, and an adjusting rod extending downwardly of and rotatable relative to the coupling member. A movement converting mechanism is disposed to convert rotation of the adjusting rod into the rotation of the coupling member as well as the reel shaft so as to adjust the distance between the front and rear shade layers and the shading areas of the shading strips.

Abstract: A removable multi-decorative cover for a vertical window blind is disclosed. The cover includes a first portion having a first top portion and a first bottom portion seamed to each other along a first bottom edge, a first left edge, and a first right edge. The first portion is shaped substantially as a sleeve to enclose the vertical blind. The cover includes a second portion having a second top portion and a second bottom portion seamed to each other along a second top edge, a second bottom edge, a second left edge, and a second right edge. The second portion may be seamed to the first left edge or the first right edge of the first portion along the second left edge or the second right edge. The second portion may be configured to fold over the first portion along the first left edge or the first right edge.

Abstract: A smart window controller includes circuitry configured to establish a representative model of one or more building zones based on occupancy, construction, lighting, or cooling properties of a building. A lighting control strategy is implemented for the one or more building zones based on the representative model or one or more user preferences input at a first user interface screen of an external device. Automatic operations of one or more smart windows, cooling systems, or artificial lighting systems are controlled based on trigger points associated with the lighting control strategy, and a performance level of the lighting control strategy for the one or more building zones is determined based on one or more predetermined financial metrics.

Abstract: An extendable/retractable ladder assembly includes a first stile and a second stile and a plurality of rungs extending therebetween. Each stile may comprise a plurality of columns disposed in a nested arrangement for relative axial movement in a telescopic fashion. A connector assembly connects the rungs to respective columns in the first and second stiles. The ladder has improved manufacturability since connector assemblies may be assembled before connecting the rungs to respective columns. The standing surface of the rungs may be angled such that it is rotated towards horizontal when the ladder assembly is leaned against a wall. A latch assembly may be used to selectively lock relative axial movement between adjacent columns. The latch assembly includes a locking pin assembly comprised of a central post and an outer metal sleeve. An air damper may also be used to control airflow through the columns.

Abstract: A method of determining when tool string parameters should be altered to avoid undesirable effects that would likely occur if the tool string were employed to drill a borehole includes, modeling portions or an entirety of the tool string in the borehole under steady state loading conditions, identifying deflections of the tool string with the modeling when buckling would occur for specific tool string parameters, and calculating whether whirl exhibiting similar deflections of the tool string to those identified during buckling would be undesirable.

Abstract: A method and related apparatus for forming a wellbore in a subterranean formation includes forming a drill string that has a drill bit at a distal end, a drilling motor configured to rotate the drill bit with a drive shaft; a joint coupled to the drive shaft; and an actuator assembly displacing the drive shaft between a first and a second deflection angle, the drive shaft being movable at each of the deflection angles until a predetermined weight is applied to the bit. The method also includes conveying the drill bit through the wellbore and fixing the drive shaft in at least one of the first and the second deflection angles by applying a predetermined weight on the bit.

Abstract: A roller cone drill bit is disclosed. The drill bit includes a bit body with a support arm extending therefrom, and a cone assembly mounted on a journal extending from the support arm. The drill bit further includes a lubricant chamber in the support arm, and a compensator assembly in the lubricant chamber. The compensator assembly includes a lubricant container with a securing end. The compensator assembly further includes a clip ring coupled to the lubricant container and configured to retain the lubricant container in the lubricant chamber. Additionally, the compensator assembly includes a ring cap with a securing hole configured to couple to the securing end of the lubricant container. The ring cap includes a shoulder configured to retain the clip ring.

Abstract: An earth-boring tool includes a tool body having an aperture therein defining a nozzle port, a nozzle or nozzle assembly disposed in the nozzle port, and a shape memory material disposed adjacent a surface of at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly. The shape memory material retains at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly by a threadless connection. The threadless connection includes mechanical interference between the shape memory material, the at least one component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly, and the tool body or another component of the nozzle or nozzle assembly. The shape memory material is formulated and configured to transform from a first phase and a first shape upon heating and to transform from a second phase and a second shape upon cooling.

Abstract: Earth-boring tools may comprise rotatable cutting elements rotatably connected to protruding journals, which may be at least partially located within inner bores extending through the rotatable cutting elements. A rotationally leading end of one of the protruding journals may not extend beyond a cutting face of its associated rotatable cutting element. Alternatively, a protruding journal may comprise a chip breaker protruding from a cutting face of a rotatable cutting element. Methods of removing an earth formation may include directing cuttings forward, away from a cutting face of a rotatable cutting element when the cuttings reach an inner bore of the rotatable cutting element, and rotating the rotatable cutting element around a protruding journal at least partially located in the inner bore.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for retaining components in a downhole motor in the event of a mechanical separation or failure of one or more components therein. As described, the retention mechanism does not require a threaded connection to components of the mud motor drivetrain. Downhole motor assemblies including the new catch mechanism also include a structural element to engage the catch assembly and the components to which it is attached in the event of a mechanical failure within the mud motor assembly.

Abstract: A fluidic modulator in accordance to an aspect includes a body forming a flow aperture between an inlet and an outlet, the flow aperture providing a constriction to a fluid flowing axially from the inlet to the outlet, and a moveable element having a shaft portion disposed through the body and a tip end selectively positionable in the flow aperture to alter the flow aperture.

Abstract: A riser system with a primary conduit extends between a surface vessel and a subsea location and an auxiliary conduit that extends adjacent the primary conduit. In one example a composite jumper conduit extends from the surface vessel and is fluidly connected to the auxiliary conduit. The jumper conduit includes a composite material formed of at least a matrix and one or more reinforcing elements embedded within the matrix. In one example a subsea composite jumper conduit extends from subsea infrastructure and is fluidly connected to the auxiliary conduit. The subsea jumper conduit includes a composite material formed of at least a matrix and one or more reinforcing elements embedded within the matrix.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for limiting contact pressure between a flexible pipe and a bending guide member. The apparatus includes a bending guide member extending over a covered region of a flexible pipe in which the flexible pipe can bend wherein a gap between an inner surface of the bending guide member and an outer surface on the flexible pipe in at least a portion of the covered region is tapered and narrows towards an unconstrained end of the bending guide member.

Abstract: A joint for pipes includes male and female portions, trapezoidal threads at taper sealing and bearing end surfaces, with slope angles between thread lead-in flanks and the thread axis normal line of 10-24° and between load flanks and the thread axis normal line of ?4° to +5°. The bearing end surfaces have a 10-20° slope angle from the thread axis normal line. There is 13-18° slope angle between the male portion sealing surface and thread axis normal line, and an 8-12° slope angle between the female portion sealing surface and thread axis normal line. The female portion thread run-out area and mating areas of the sealing and the bearing end surfaces have circumferential grooves. The female element sealing surface and circumferential groove surface and the male portion sealing surface and thread run-out surface are rounded.

Abstract: An enhanced union connection for connecting tubular members together. The enhanced union connection may include a male end member, a female end member, a wing nut, and nut retaining segments. The union connection is configured to quickly and easily connect and disconnect tubular members together, while providing and maintaining a robust connection and seal (e.g. up to 15,000 psi or more) between the tubular members when connected together.

Abstract: A metal-to-metal sealing system connecting first and second tubular members includes a first seal configuration on the first tubular member and a second seal configuration on the second tubular member. The first seal configuration includes a first annular groove and a first annular tooth, and the second seal configuration includes a second annular groove and a second annular tooth. The second annular tooth is positioned within the first annular groove with the second annular tooth face engaging the first annular shoulder face to define a first shoulder. The first annular tooth is positioned within the second annular groove with the first annular tooth face engaging the second annular shoulder face to define a second shoulder. Locations of primary sealing contact of surfaces of the members are spaced axially away from the first and second shoulders.

Abstract: A stress-free centralizer system for wellbore tubulars having a centralizer portion with hollow vanes or solid vanes. An injectable material can be configured to harden at ambient or elevated temperatures and installed into the hollow vanes while coating a portion of the inner surface of the centralizer portion. Alternatively, a swellable encapsulation and shape shifting material can be used instead of the injectable material. Additionally, primers and adhesives can be used with the centralizer portion. Both materials when hardened or swollen can be configured to withstand temperatures and pressures within a wellbore for twenty-four hours without melting or degrading. The centralizer portion can simultaneously prevent axial movement and rotational movement while installed on the wellbore tubular, distribute load evenly around the centralizer portion, and provide cathodic protection to the wellbore tubular without using a stop collar with screws.

Abstract: A larger diameter coiled tubing is run into an extended reach deviated wellbore to a location at or near its horizontal reach limit. The smaller diameter coiled tubing is then run through the larger diameter tubing until the end of the smaller tubing protrudes from the larger tubing. The smaller tubing is then run further into the wellbore to a location further than would have been possible if either tubing had been run alone. Supplementary reach-increasing techniques such as friction reducing vibrators and/or downhole tractors can also be used in combination with the described techniques.