Abstract: A method is provided for recovering pulp fibers having little damage from a used absorbent article which includes a water permeable front sheet, a water impermeable back sheet and an absorbent body that contains pulp fibers and a superabsorbent polymer. At least one opening with a circle equivalent diameter of 5-45 mm, or 10-45 mm cut, is made in the front sheet and/or the back sheet of the used absorbent article, which is then agitated in an organic acid aqueous solution with a pH of less than or equal to 2.5, and the superabsorbent polymer is deactivated and the pulp fibers and superabsorbent polymer are discharged from the used absorbent article through the opening or cut.

Abstract: A dispersible moist wipe includes regenerated cellulose fibers in an amount equal to or less than 20 percent by weight and natural cellulose fibers in an amount equal to or greater than 80 percent by weight. At least 50 percent of the natural cellulose fibers are fibrillated. The regenerated cellulose fibers and the natural cellulose fibers are hydroentangled such that the web has a wet CD tensile strength of at least 200 grams per inch. A method of making a dispersible nonwoven sheet includes dispersing natural cellulose fibers and regenerated cellulose fibers in a liquid medium to form a liquid suspension and depositing the liquid suspension over a forming surface to form a nonwoven web. The natural cellulose fibers and regenerated cellulose fibers of the web are hydroentangled using a plurality of hydroentangling jets.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for detackifying organic contaminants in the process of pulping and papermaking and a composition used for the same. Specifically, the invention discloses that the water circulation system of pulping and papermaking process can be provided with non-ionic cellulose ether and cationic coagulant in lower amount, through which, the deposition of organic contaminants can be inhibited under the synergistic action of pre-coagulation and detackification.

Abstract: Fibrous structures, and more particularly sanitary tissue products containing fibrous structures having a surface exhibiting a three-dimensional (3D) pattern such that the fibrous structure and/or sanitary tissue product exhibits novel properties compared to known fibrous structures and/or sanitary tissue products, and methods for making same are provided.

Abstract: A disposable tissue or paper towel product including at least two plies, an exposed outer surface of at least one of the two plies comprising a plurality of pockets, the plurality of pockets having an average volume greater than 0.4 mm3 and an average surface area of 2.5 mm2, wherein the product is formed using a structured fabric with both a left handed and right handed twill pattern that reverses itself periodically.

Abstract: A foam-based expansion joint seal system packaging which facilitates transport and reduces the need for internal splices.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an asphalt paving system comprising an asphalt paving machine, a plurality of dispensing shafts, and a roll of pavement reinforcing membrane. The asphalt paving machine comprising a hopper, a screed, and support tracks. The plurality of dispensing shafts are mounted on the asphalt paving machine. Each roll of pavement reinforcing membrane is supported by at least one of the plurality of dispensing shafts. The plurality of mounted membrane dispensing shafts dispense the pavement reinforcing membrane continuously beneath the asphalt paving machine as the asphalt paving moves forward.

Abstract: A soil compactor includes at least one compactor roller supported on a machine chassis to be rotatable about a roller axis of rotation. The at least one compactor roller is supported in its two axial end areas respectively via a suspension assembly on the machine chassis to be movable with respect to the same. The suspension assembly includes at least one helical spring which couples the compactor roller movably to the machine chassis.

Abstract: A road paver comprises a generator, a control device and a screed, the screed comprising a basic screed and being suited to be modified, by selectively attaching or detaching broadening parts, from a first to at least a second, different screed configuration. The basic screed and the broadening parts each comprise one compacting unit and one electric heating element to be supplied with power from the generator for heating the compacting unit to prevent the laying material from adhering to the compacting unit and to finish a high-quality road pavement. The control device is configured to individually switch on or off each one of the two resistance wire windings of the heating element of the basic screed depending on the screed configuration determined by the control device to distribute electrical power generated by the generator to the individual resistance wire windings.

Abstract: An adjustable structural connection—a connection which can be adjusted to alter the location and angle of member attachment—transforms the traditional notion of connections as a static means of connecting members at specific angles to a dynamic means of assembling a variety of structurally efficient forms. The adjustable connection connects a diagonal member to a vertical or horizontal member using either curved plate mounted to both of the structural members or a temporarily rotatable link. The adjustable connection can be used in a kit-of-parts type system, using multiple versions of the adjustable connection, which can join members at a wide variety of angles using a small number of unique components.

Abstract: The present invention is a water soluble collection bag for the disposal of bodily waste and pet fecal matter in a toilet. The present invention includes a method of use that prevents plumbing system clogs when disposing of bodily fluids and pet fecal matter in a toilet.

Abstract: A system and method to create or elevate a berm of a liquid retention facility by placement of lightweight fill material anchored by impervious liner material(s). The liner materials can be part of the liquid retention pond. The system and method can also be used to elevate the height of the berm in combination with impervious liner retention material. By constructing the berm system on an existing berm, earth embankment or levee, the effective height of the system structure can be increased. The liquid impervious liner material provides a watertight surface, joining media, and the anchoring of the lightweight fill material to the existing berm. The system may use solid wall hollow body structures. The system may also use flexible and liquid porous geotextile structures including geotubes. The liquid impervious liners retain the liquid in the retention pond.

Abstract: A hydraulic ship lift, including: a mechanical synchronizing system; a stabilizing and equalizing hydraulic driving system; and a self-feedback stabilizing system. The stabilizing and equalizing hydraulic driving system includes first resistance equalizing members arranged at corners of branch water pipes or/and second resistance equalizing members arranged at bifurcated pipes, circular forced ventilating mechanisms arranged at front of water delivery valves of a water delivery main pipe, and pressure-stabilizing and vibration-reducing boxes arranged behind the water delivery valves. The self-feedback stabilizing system includes a plurality of guide wheels; each guide wheel of the self-feedback stabilizing system is fixed on a ship reception chamber through a supporting mechanism.

Abstract: Provided are a testing instrument and method for checking the degree of saturation of a pressure sensor unit of a piezocone.

Abstract: A hydraulic impact hammer for striking a pile has a main housing, a ram supported, a coupler rod, a conversion housing, a hydraulic actuator, and a ram connector. The hydraulic actuator defines an actuator rod, a lifting head, and a lift connector. The lifting head defines an upper wall and a lower wall. The lift connector attaches the actuator rod to the upper wall of the lifting head. The ram connector attaches the coupler rod to the lower wall of the lifting head. Operation of the hydraulic actuator raises and lowers the ram to strike the pile.

Abstract: A cement form includes a first surface arranged vertically and configured to support a volume of cement, a second surface arranged horizontally and configured to contact a ground support surface. The cement form includes a foam material and has a wedge cross-sectional shape.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for mixing two or more materials underground. The apparatus comprises at least one hose in fluid communication with containers of the materials that are to be mixed. The apparatus further comprises a mixer in which the at least one hose is terminated. The mixer has at least one aperture for receiving the at least one hose. The mixer further defines a mixing chamber in fluid communication with the at least one aperture to receive the materials entering into each aperture through each hose for facilitating mixing thereof in the mixing chamber. The mixer further includes an outlet for discharging the mixture.

Abstract: An implement attachment device for tractors allowing for easy and quick attachment of implements and tools to a tractor bucket along with correspondingly easy and quick detachment of such implements and tools, wherein such device may itself may be readily connected or disconnected to the bucket and while connected may be easily switched from a bottom use-ready position to a top stowed position in relation to the tractor bucket.

Abstract: A hoist drum is disclosed for use with a power shovel. The hoist drum may have a body that is hollow and generally cylindrical, and an anchor connected to an outer annular surface of the body. The hoist drum may also have at least one stiffener located inside the body and extending in an axial direction of the body across the anchor.

Abstract: An excavation machine includes a detector detecting a state of an object to be excavated, a storage storing a plurality of pieces of excavation information in which a state of a first portion before excavated by a learning excavation device, and a first operation of when the learning excavation device excavates the first portion are associated with each other, and a processor including an estimation unit obtaining a state of a second portion intended to be excavated, the state having been detected by the detector, an operation determining unit selecting the state of the first portion corresponding to the state of the obtained second portion, from among the states of the first portions of the excavation information, and determining the first operation corresponding to the selected state, as a second operation of when excavating the second portion, and an excavation controller operating an excavation device with the second operation.

Abstract: A device for coupling to a working end of a hydrovac boom hose includes a tubular suction tube for removably coupling to the working end of the hydrovac boom hose such that an opening of the working end remains unobstructed. A plurality of high pressure turbo nozzles configured for emitting high pressure water are located around a circumference of the tubular suction tube such that the turbo nozzles surround the working end of the hydrovac boom hose to dislodge earthly materials under the device. An outer housing to enclose and protect the tubular suction tube, turbo nozzles, and onboard locating device, and to provide an air duct for ambient air to pass down threw. A plurality of air vents in the outer housing that provide flow of ambient air to an area being excavated. The conduit coupled with the outer housing, for allowing ingress of water to the plurality of high pressure turbo nozzles.

Abstract: An implement assembly includes an implement having a forward edge and an edge protection system. The edge protection system includes at least one edge shroud having a lower leg that includes a lower end and a lower end inner surface, an upper leg, and a wedge portion, the upper leg including an upper end portion and a connecting portion. The upper end portion has an upper end inner portion that may be angled to the lower end inner surface and/or a horizontal plane extending between the upper leg and the lower leg. The system also includes a boss assembly structured to couple the edge shroud to the implement, and including a pry boss. The angle of the upper end inner surface may be such that a clearance is formed between the upper end inner surface and the pry boss when moving the edge shroud forward in a disengaging direction relative to the implement. The clearance reduces frictional force opposing movement of the edge shroud in the disengaging direction.

Abstract: A wear member for attachment with a work tool includes a body portion configured to be coupled to the work tool. The body portion includes a first outer surface, a second outer surface positioned opposite the first outer surface, a coupling surface configured to engage the work tool, and a wear surface disposed along a front edge of the body portion. The wear member further includes a lifting passage extending through the body portion from the first outer surface to the second outer surface and is positioned between the wear surface and the coupling surface.

Abstract: Modular electrical appliance for recycling greywater, connected to: a drainage pipe (S1) via which greywater enters into the greywater reservoir (1) thereof; a sanitary water supply (S) via which sanitary water enters into the auxiliary reservoir (7) thereof; and a flush pipe (D) which connects to the standard opening of the tank (WC) of a toilet. The electrical appliance has a built-in three-way valve (4) which opens the outlet of said greywater reservoir (1) if it contains a sufficient amount for a full flush. If not, the outlet of said auxiliary reservoir (7) is opened. A hydraulic pump (3) connected to the electrovalve (4) pumps the flush water, grey or sanitary, through the flush pipe (D).

Abstract: A plumbing system for a shower or the like includes a mixing valve operable for delivering a water flow of adjustable temperature from a water source to a dispensing device downstream from the mixing valve. The system further includes a diverter valve between the mixing valve and the dispensing device, and operable to divert a selectively variable portion of the water from the mixing valve back to the water source. A thermochromic thermal indicator, downstream from the mixing valve, may advantageously provide a visible indication of the water flow having achieved a predetermined temperature. The thermal indicator may be a thermochromic PVC conduit, or it may be a fitting having an inlet, an outlet, a thermochromic PVC element therebetween, and a barrier located between the inlet and the outlet so as to define a flow path that includes an interior surface of the thermochromic element.

Abstract: A sink plug arrangement comprises a first permanent magnet arranged to counteract movement of a sink plug within a sink outlet, wherein said sink plug is movable between a first and second state relative the sink outlet. A second permanent magnet arranged to, in the second state, repel the first magnet. A well-defined position is thereby achieved without any moving parts in the sink plug.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a sanitary washing device includes a main part, a toilet seat, and a radio wave sensor. The main part includes a toilet seat movable part including a metal. The toilet seat is supported by the toilet seat movable part to be rotatable. The radio wave sensor is provided in an interior of the main part and uses a radio wave to detect a user in front of the main part. The radio wave sensor includes a controller that determines a state of the user and outputs a signal relating to a determination result. The toilet seat movable part opens and closes the toilet seat based on the signal. The controller is positioned further rearward than the toilet seat movable part. At least a part of the controller overlaps at least a part of the toilet seat movable part in a frontward/rearward direction.

Abstract: Disclosed is a modular building system including, in some embodiments, one or more wall panels, one or more floor panels, and one or more roof panels. The modular building components of the modular building system including the one or more wall panels, the one or more floor panels, and the one or more roof panels can form housing or storage structures with electrical wiring, plumbing, or both wiring and plumbing. The housing or storage structures can be erected by one or more persons without a need for a plumber, an electrician, or power tools. Also disclosed is a method for erecting one or more housing or storage structure in accordance with the modular building system.

Abstract: A construction system definable in terms of an X, Y, and Z coordinate axes which provides a first part having a hollow three-walled web elongate in the Z axis, having a series series of securement brackets with geometric cut-outs on the upper Z edges of the elongate Z axis member; and a second part having at least one open end for complemental engagement of the first part wherein the second part may fit over distal ends of said first part in which a cross-section of the second part is generally that of the first part, but wide and tall enough to allow the first part to slip within the second part, and said second part having an opposite end of said opening, wherein said second part securing the first part to a structural support.

Abstract: A modular assembly for forming a shear wall includes a modular frame having a first side, and formwork. The formwork has a reinforcing bar cage and a first wall each coupled to the first side of the modular frame. The first wall is disposed between the reinforcing bar cage and the first side of the modular frame.

Abstract: A shelter and associated methodology for operating a shelter that is selectively positionable between an operable raised mode and an idle lowered mode. The shelter has an outer frame with a first upstanding perimeter wall defining an open top. An inner frame has a second upstanding perimeter wall nested within the first upstanding perimeter wall in the lowered mode. Means are provided for raising the inner frame through the outer frame's open top and above the outer frame in the raised mode. The shelter can further include a second inner frame having a third upstanding perimeter wall nested within the second upstanding perimeter wall in the lowered mode. In that case, the means for raising is further configured for raising the second inner frame through the inner frame's open top and above the inner and outer frames in the raised mode.

Abstract: A tension tie assembly for attachment of a first building member to a second building member under tension. The assembly includes a tie with a ball on one end that attaches to a first anchoring member on the first building member and a threaded stud on the opposite end that attaches to a second anchoring member on the second building member. A cable extends between the ball and the stud. The ball may be retained in a rotatable engagement by the first anchoring member. The force of tension on the tie can be adjusted after attachment to the first and second building members. The adjustability of tension can be provided by a threaded connection between sub-elements of the tie such a nut threaded to the stud.

Abstract: An anchor for being embedded in concrete for attachment to a fastener to support a load comprises a plug having a main body portion extending upwardly from a base portion, the plug for being attached to a form board prior to pouring of concrete, the plug having an end portion disposed a distance from the form board; and an anchor body attached to the end portion. The plug is separable from the anchor body and removable from the concrete after the concrete is cured, leaving the anchor body embedded in the concrete, the plug providing a void in the concrete after removal to provide an access opening for a threaded portion of a fastener to attach to the anchor body.

Abstract: A flooring product is disclosed herein. The flooring product comprises a pair of oriented strand boards and an acoustic barrier layer. Each oriented strand board includes a first surface, a second surface, a first profiled edge, a stepped section, a second profiled edge, and a recessed section. The acoustic barrier layer is positioned between and at least partially secured to the oriented strand boards. Upon the securing of the acoustic barrier layer to the oriented strand boards, the stepped sections are arranged to form a tongue, where the acoustic barrier layer extends from the tongue to form a first rounded bulge. The recessed sections are arranged to form a groove, where the acoustic barrier layer extends into the groove to form a second rounded bulge. When two flooring products are assembled, the first rounded bulge of one flooring product contacts the second rounded bulge of the other flooring product.

Abstract: A sound-deadening product for a flooring system with a subfloor may be installed by a single installer. The sound-deadening product has a sound-deadening upper portion with a bottom surface and a subfloor contacting layer affixed to the bottom surface of the sound-deadening upper portion. The subfloor contacting layer may include a film or be a laminate. The laminate may includes a nonwoven sheet and a film. The nonwoven sheet is generally co-extensive with the sound-deadening upper portion. The nonwoven sheet is adhered to the bottom surface of the sound-deadening upper portion. The film is generally co-extensive with the nonwoven sheet. The film is a polymer film with a thickness ?3 mils. An upper surface of the film is adhered to a bottom surface of the nonwoven sheet, and a bottom surface of the film is in contact with the subflooring. A method for single installer installation of the sound-deadening product is also disclosed.

Abstract: A connection for a subarchitectural workspace includes a first structure with a first end and a second end opposite the first end and a second structure with a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The connection assembly further includes a first bracket with a first fine adjustment surface mounted to the first structure, a second bracket with a second fine adjustment surface that engages the first fine adjustment surface, and a clamping mechanism that applies a clamping force to the first and second fine adjustment surfaces to pull the first and second structures together.

Abstract: A glass panel system including: a lower guide track and an upper guide track; and a first glass panel coupled to the lower guide track and the upper guide track in such a way that the first glass panel is movable along the lower guide track and the upper guide track in their longitudinal direction a guide track placed by the side of the first glass panel; and at least one locking element fastened to the first glass panel and configured to engage the guide track, along which the locking element is movable when the first glass panel is moving. When coupled to the guide track, the locking element supports the first glass panel and is configured to prevent any movement caused by bending of the first glass panel in either one lateral direction or two opposite lateral directions with respect to the guide track.

Abstract: A process for assembling a fire-, smoke-, sound- and/or water-proof system within a dynamic curtain wall façade uses a tubular sealing element containing a thermally resistant flexible foam material for insulating and sealing.

Abstract: Lightweight masonry hollow bricks of a substantially rectangular cuboid shape having central cavities and side indentations. A concrete composition of the masonry hollow bricks includes cement, water, sand, a coarse aggregate, and an insulating material, e.g. perlite, polyethylene, crumb rubber. The developed masonry hollow bricks met the ASTM requirements for non-load bearing masonry bricks in addition to satisfying the ASTM standard as being lightweight masonry bricks.

Abstract: Apparatus for retaining a glass panel, comprising: an anchor member for attaching to a wall and including a channel into which an edge of the glass panel will extend and a header member for fitting into abutment to the anchor member and including a channel for retaining an edge of the glass panel.

Abstract: An exemplary shingle includes at least one coated shingle sheet defining a headlap portion and a tab portion each having opposed upper and lower surfaces. A first line of adhesive is adhered to one of the upper surface of the headlap portion and the lower surface of the tab portion, and includes a first thermally activated adhesive material. A second line of adhesive is adhered to one of the upper surface of the headlap portion and the lower surface of the tab portion, and includes a second thermally activated adhesive material having a minimum activation temperature less than a minimum activation temperature of the first thermally activated adhesive material.

Abstract: A roof ventilation system is provided that is configured to be mounted on a profiled paneled roof for venting air from a vent opening in the roof. The roof ventilation system can include a vent part having a plurality of vent passages, a plurality of plies configured to be mounted substantially horizontal to the profiled roof panels and a plurality of cross members extending between each ply, wherein the plies and cross members define the vent passages; and a filter member attached to outer surfaces of the vent part. The filter member can be made from a resilient material, and the filter member may include extensions extending beyond a length of the vent part.

Abstract: The method includes dispersing copper or other material ions through the water receiving area of a gutter guard for the prevention of moss or mold growth. The method includes the utilization of thread(s) sewn into or embroidered onto or otherwised affixed to or immediately preceding the water receiving areas of a gutter guard, such thread(s) being comprised of moss killing materials. The thread(s) comprise only a portion of the water receiving area, so if corrosive elements form and wash over the water receiving area, they will be in sufficient amounts to kill moss but not in so great an amount as to clog any water receiving apertures. The method includes the utilization of staples or other objects comprised of copper or other moss killing materials fastened to or adhered or welded to the body or water receiving areas of a gutter guard or areas immediately preceding such.

Abstract: A gutter cover, the central portion of which comprises a plurality of spaced-apart deflectable fastener-receiving flaps hingedly connected at a junction with the rear portion, the deflectable fastener receiving flaps being pivoted into the trough, below the adjacent section of the central portion, upon insertion of a mechanical fastener therein and into the rear wall of the gutter to secure the gutter to the supporting surface. The rear portion of the cover may also comprise a fastener-abutment extending in the trough, below the central portion, and defining an oblique angle with the rear wall of the gutter, when the gutter cover is engaged with the gutter. The fastener abutment and the rear wall of the gutter are configured to receive a mechanical fastener therein to secure the gutter to a wall, the fastener abutment maintains the mechanical fastener in an oblique angle with the rear wall of the gutter.

Abstract: Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system that may be locked with a vertical displacement of a first panel against a second panel. The locking system includes a first rigid and a second flexible joint edge section with different locking functions. The first edge section provides a horizontal locking and the second section provides a vertical locking.

Abstract: A flooring assembly includes a base for supporting at least one flooring element. A pin is secured to the base and extends from the upper surface of the base. The pin has a body portion adjacent to the base and a head portion extending upwardly from the body portion. The head portion has a lower head surface. A recess is formed in a flooring element. A collar is positioned adjacent to the recess. The collar has an inner diameter that is less than a diameter of the recess. The collar has an upper collar surface configured to engage the lower head surface to limit a vertical motion of the flooring element with respect to the base when a central vertical axis of the pin is laterally offset from a central vertical axis of the recess. In some embodiments, petals secured in the recess are used instead of a collar.

Abstract: A spacer member for spacing boards or tiles includes a plurality of spacing wings extending from a core, where at least two of the spacing wings are movably connected to the core such that the spacer member has both a working configuration and a collapsed configuration.

Abstract: A knob is screwable to a tile spacer-leveler for together defining a tile alignment device. The knob comprises (i) a body, (ii) elastically-deformable connectors on the knob body, (iii) first and second fixing elements comprising respective threaded slots, supported by the connectors and arrangeable in a first arrangement wherein the threaded rod of a tile separator can be inserted into and removed from the threaded slots without screwing in a second arrangement in which the rod insertion and removal takes place only by screwing, (iv) a blocking element separated from the knob body for elastically deforming the connectors to change the arrangement of the first and second fixing elements to (a) insert the rod between the threaded slots of the first and second fixing means without screw-tightening thereof, (b) screw the knob to the threaded rod with the fixing elements in the second arrangement to align the tiles, and (c) remove the threaded rod without screwing.

Abstract: A lifting anchor assembly that is configured to be embedded in a tilt-up concrete structure includes an anchor member that has a central portion configured to engage a lift apparatus and a pair of legs that extend downward from the central portion. A lower portion of each of the pair of legs includes a curved section configured to engage within a concrete structure during its forming process. A spacer may be selected to attach at an end portion of each the pair of legs, where the spacers each extend downward from the anchor member and rest on a floor surface of a concrete form to support the anchor member at a desired spacing from the floor and upright within the concrete structure that is cast in the concrete form.

Abstract: A construction template system includes a first template configured to removably secure to a structure, the first template having: a marker configured to mark a location for construction on the structure; and a first laser target and a second laser target; an alignment laser configured to emit a plurality of beams directed to predetermined locations.