Abstract: A method of manufacturing an elongate shaft for delivery of a medical device may include disposing a polymeric sheath having a lumen extending therethrough over a mandrel; sliding a proximal portion of the polymeric sheath into a lumen of a metallic tubular member; placing a polymeric tubular member over the distal portion of the polymeric sheath and a distal portion of the metallic tubular member; fixedly attaching a proximal coupler to a distal end of a longitudinal support filament; inserting a proximal end of the longitudinal support filament between the polymeric sheath and the polymeric tubular member to position the longitudinal support filament alongside the distal portion of the metallic tubular member and a distal portion of the polymeric sheath; and reflowing the polymeric tubular member to secure the longitudinal support filament relative to the polymeric sheath and the metallic tubular member.

Abstract: An article having a nanoporous membrane and a nanoporous graphene sheet layered on the nanoporous membrane. A method of: depositing a layer of a diblock copolymer onto a graphene sheet, and etching a minor phase of the diblock copolymer and a portion of the graphene in contact with the minor phase to form a nanoporous article having a nanoporous graphene sheet and a nanoporous layer of a polymer. A method of: depositing a hexaiodo-substituted macrocycle onto a substrate having a Ag(111) surface; coupling the macrocycle to form a nanoporous graphene sheet; layering the graphene sheet and substrate onto a nanoporous membrane with the graphene sheet in contact with the nanoporous membrane; and etching away the substrate.

Abstract: A brushless DC motor (BLDC) includes a stator having a ring-shaped body with multiple stator posts extending axially outward from the ring-shaped body. A plurality of stator windings are each wound about a corresponding one of the stator posts. A rotor support structure is positioned radially inward of the multiple stator posts. A rotor including a shaft is received in the rotor support structure. A first rotor disk is fixed to a first end of the shaft. At least a first set of magnets is disposed about the rotor disk and positioned radially adjacent to the stator posts such that the first set of magnets and the stator windings define a first radial flux flowpath. A second set of magnets positioned relative to the stator posts in one of an axial adjacency or a radial adjacency such that a second flux flowpath is defined.

Abstract: A system for automatically correcting bicycle handlebar and warehousing the bicycle includes a bicycle and a warehouse box for storing the bicycle. The bicycle includes a bicycle frame, a handlebar, a stem, a front wheel and a rear wheel; an encoder is mounted on a bicycle frame for recording a rotation angle of a stem and sensing whether the handlebar is corrected. A rear-wheel correcting and fine-adjusting device is provided in the warehousing box or on the bicycle frame. The rear-wheel correcting and fine-adjusting device automatically twists a rear wheel according to a deviation angle record of the encoder on the bicycle frame so that the rear wheel and a front wheel form a plane. The system is capable of automatically correcting the handlebar and warehousing the bicycle, thereby facilitating the automatic storage and greatly reducing the storage space in the warehousing box.

Abstract: After grinding is performed on a semiconductor wafer, the semiconductor wafer is fixed on the electrostatic chuck so as to cause the front surface side of the semiconductor wafer to face the electrostatic chuck. Next, a masking material layer is formed on the rear surface of the ground semiconductor wafer in a state where a surface protection tape is bonded thereto. Then, a masking tape is cut by irradiating, from the rear surface side, portions thereof corresponding to a plurality of streets appropriately formed in a grid shape in a pattern surface with a laser beam so as to form openings for the streets in the semiconductor wafer. Then, SF6 plasma irradiation is performed from the rear surface side so as to etch the semiconductor wafer that has been exposed in the street portions. Finally, ashing is performed using O2 plasma.

Abstract: An automatic fiber cleaning system comprises a first cleaning module, a second cleaning module, and a sprayer. Each of the first cleaning module and the second cleaning module has a cleaning belt, a driven belt wheel on which an unused portion of the cleaning belt is wound, a driving belt wheel on which a used portion of the cleaning belt is wound, and a pressing tool on which the cleaning belt is tightened. The sprayer sprays a cleaning agent onto the cleaning belts. The pressing tools press the cleaning belts on both sides of an optical fiber and clamp the optical fiber. The cleaning belts move relative to the optical fiber by the driving belt wheels to wipe the optical fiber.

Abstract: A virtual stop station is provided having a carriage straddling an assembly line operation. This provides an independently moving platform upon which one or more manufacturing robots are affixed. The carriage is coordinated with and tracked to the linear motion of the assembly line. A vision guidance system centers the workpiece, and lifting arms mounted on the moving carriage will locate the workpiece and lift the workpiece up off of the conveyor, while being coordinated with it. The workpiece and robots thus are now fixtured to the same frame, thus eliminating movement relative to one another creating a virtual stop station. Once subassembly is complete, the coordinated robotic gantry will disengage from the conveyor and return home. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: Methods and systems for configuring a manual and/or automated processing system to conform to a contoured surface of a structure are disclosed. One example includes an automated processing system with a flexible rail configuration. One or more turnbuckles and/or other actuators configure and hold the flexible rail configuration into conformity with the surface (which could be flat or of a curvature) during processing by the automated processing system. Additionally, one or more combination suction-cup pressurized-air devices may be coupled to the flexible rail configuration for selectively attaching the flexible rail configuration to the contoured surface and also for selectively releasing and/or facilitating elevation and movement of the flexible rail configuration above and about the contoured surface. A multi-function end effector may be associated with the flexible rail configuration and be moveable relative thereto.

Abstract: A concrete lid for an in-ground utilities box includes a plastic reinforcement structure filled with concrete. The plastic reinforcement structure includes one or more plastic sidewalls that protect the edges of the lid from damage. The upper and lower surfaces of the lid are exposed concrete (with the exception of the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls). The one or more plastic sidewalls laterally surround a plastic reinforcement grid, which is centrally located between the upper and lower edges of the one or more plastic sidewalls. The one or more plastic sidewalls can be integrally formed with the plastic reinforcement grid. The plastic reinforcement grid reinforces the concrete lid, eliminating the need for separate reinforcement material. Support struts can be used to support the plastic reinforcement grid while wet concrete is being poured into the plastic reinforcing structure.

Abstract: A collapsible, reusable bulk material container assembly, kit and method for assembling and using same are disclosed. Upper ring and base members are locked together by peripheral post members, forming an upright rigid framework that operatively supports a woven fabric bulk material receiving bag. A cover connected to the upper ring seals the container. Intermediate support bands may be attached to and along the post members to resist outwardly directed forces applied to the bag by contained bulk material. The container is reconfigurable to a collapsed storage or shipping module that retainably contains the post members, support bands and woven fabric bag. The post members may be segmentable or collapsible for containment within the collapsed module. Component parts of the container assembly are detachable, reusable and recyclable. One configuration of the container is sized to replace a conventional 55 gallon drum.

Abstract: A method of modifying an engine after the engine has been initially sold by the manufacturer of the engine, wherein the engine has an air intake pipe and an air flow sensor, wherein the air intake pipe has an exterior wall surface and an interior wall surface, and wherein the air flow sensor has a sensing head disposed at a first location within the air intake pipe spaced apart from the interior wall surface of the air intake pipe, includes the step of: repositioning the sensing head from the first location to a second location, wherein the second location is closer to the interior wall surface of the air intake pipe than the position of the sensing head at the first location.

Abstract: A pick tool for pavement degradation or mining, comprising an insert and a holder, the insert comprising a super-hard strike tip joined to a proximate end of an insertion shaft. The insertion shaft is secured by an interference fit within a bore provided in the holder, the insertion shaft having a longitudinal axis and a distal end of the insertion shaft positioned at an insertion depth within the bore. A wear limit marker is provided on an external surface of the holder and positioned to correspond to an axial distance along the insertion shaft from the distal end, the distance being at least 20 percent and at most 35 percent of the insertion depth.

Abstract: A motorized latch assembly includes an electric motor, an eccentric cam attached via gears to a shaft of the motor and a latch plate configured to lock the reagent cartridge to the coupler. The eccentric cam is rotated when the shaft of the motor rotates. When the eccentric cam is rotated so that the eccentric cam presses down upon the latch plate, the latch plate moves a sufficient distance to permit the reagent cartridge to be disconnected from the coupler.

Abstract: A urinary tubing for mitigating against microbial migration, as well as a system and method for forming and maintaining a closed-system of urinary tubing are described. Such tubing may comprise: a first terminal end; a second terminal end, longitudinally opposing the first terminal end; a wettable region, which may comprise a surface which may be wetted by a fluid flowing within the tubing; and a means for mitigating against microbial migration in a direction opposite of intended flow. Such means may be selected from one or more of the group comprising at least one check-valve, at least one biofilm abater, and the wettable region treated with an antimicrobial coating. Such means may be located within the tubing, at the first terminal end, or at the second terminal end.

Abstract: A locking assembly is provided for securing an electronic module to a chassis of a rack enclosure within a mounting slot of the chassis. The locking assembly includes a lock configured to be secured to a vertical rail of the chassis. The lock further is configured to prevent the electronic module from being slidably installed into and removed from its respective mounting slot and to prevent a latch of the electronic module from being opened when the electronic module is secured in place within the chassis of the rack enclosure. The locking assembly further includes a key configured to enable the lock to be removed from the chassis thereby enabling the installation and removal of the electronic module from the chassis.

Abstract: A method of attaching two or more different refills to a volatile material dispenser includes the steps of providing a volatile material dispenser that includes a housing and a cavity adapted to accept two or more different refills containing volatile materials and attaching a first refill within the cavity of the volatile material dispenser. The method further includes the steps of removing the first refill from the cavity and attaching a second refill within the cavity of the volatile material dispenser, wherein the second refill has at least one feature that is different than at least one feature of the first refill.

Abstract: Disclosed is a privacy screen assembly comprising: a screen; a support having a first end and a second end, the screen attached to the support proximate to the first end; and a mount assembly, the mount assembly attached to the support proximate to the second end, the support offsetting the screen from the mount assembly.

Abstract: An adapter for a dielectric hot stick, the hot stick having a hook, the hook being movable along an axis of travel that includes a retracted position where the hook is within an axial passage in the hot stick, and an extended position where the hook is extended past a work end of the hot stick, the adapter comprising: a frame with a hot stick seat shaped to be mounted on the work end of the hot stick, the frame defining a lever passage positioned to at least partially align with the axial passage in use; and a lever assembly pivotally connected to the frame, the lever assembly having a first end with a connector for the hook and being at least partially within the lever passage, and the lever assembly having a second end defining or connected to a tool part to move the tool part relative to the frame to carry out a function when the hook moves along the axis of travel.

Abstract: An all truss foundation unit, method of making the foundation unit, and a foundation unit kit. The foundation unit is formed of multiple cross trusses interconnected by bridging top and bottom side rails. This results in a flat surface on both the top and the bottom of the foundation unit. The kit is formed of a plurality of the trusses and four side rails, with the trusses and side rails being oriented together with their longitudinal dimensions aligned in a generally parallel orientation and with at least some of their flat sides in contact with one another. When the foundation unit is constructed, a truss locator guide is provided on at least two of the side rails, and the cross trusses are oriented in a parallel, spaced relationship in accordance with the truss locator guide.

Abstract: An organizer station for conveniently organizing and retaining a plurality of essential tools in provided. The organizer station may comprise a cabinet base defining a compartment space, wherein a front portion of the cabinet base forms an access opening to the compartment space; a plurality of hooks provided by the cabinet base; a cabinet top provided by the cabinet base; a cookbook stand pivotably mounted to the cabinet top so that the cookbook stand pivots to a visually accessible position and a prone position; at least one door pivotably mounted along the access opening so as to be positionable in an open position and a closed position encasing the compartment space; at least one door shelf operably attached along each door; a plurality of storage components housed within the compartment space; and a plurality of sub-compartment spaces defined by the compartment spaces and the plurality of storage components.

Abstract: A portable, modular display system and method for use that can esthetically display food or other items on a rigid surface(s) or a series of steps that are illuminated, and these modules can be assembled into a variety of decorative configurations enabling adaptation to an event venue.

Abstract: An ornamental fixture having a support structure and a plurality of ornaments mounted to the support structure in a substantially completely spherical arrangement of ornaments. The ornaments may be glass crystal ornaments, for example, octagonal glass crystals, and a light may be mounted within the fixture. The support structure may include an upper support ring and at least one lower support ring vertically spaced from the upper support ring and a plurality of arcuate sector assemblies removably mounted to the upper support ring and the at least one lower support ring. The sector assemblies retain the ornaments to provide a substantially continuous 360-degree array of ornaments. The sector assemblies can also be disassembled from the support structure for maintenance, servicing, relamping, and cleaning of the fixture. For example, the disassembled components of the fixture may be washed in a dishwasher without damaging the ornaments or the support structure.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a positioning system for electromagnetic riveting. The apparatus comprises a plate and a biasing system physically associated with the plate. The plate is configured to be positioned relative to a first workpiece, and is further configured to electromagnetically engage an electromagnetic tool. The biasing system is configured to physically engage a second workpiece. The biasing system is further configured to hold the plate in a desired position relative to the first workpiece during a number of operations performed by the electromagnetic tool while the plate is electromagnetically engaged with the first workpiece.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for facilitating rotation of a mattress in a horizontal plane carried by a box spring or a platform. In order to facilitate rotation, slick surfaces between the mattress and the box spring or platform are selectively placed in engagement with each other, in one embodiment of the invention. The slick surfaces may be provided by two (2) separate covers; one cover for the mattress and one cover for the box spring, platform or bed skirt. One cover is provided with a slick and non-slick surface. The other cover may be the same as the first cover or may have sock surfaces on two sides. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, one of the covers may be provided as a protective cover that encapsulates the entire mattress. In another alternate embodiment, one cover may be provided that cooperates with a suck surface that is integrally provided on one or the other of the mattress or box spring or platform.

Abstract: A remotely-operable cleaning device having a claw assembly that can manipulate tools and instruments within a vessel. The cleaning device has collapsible tracks allowing it to be placed into small openings and to be expanded once it is passed through the small openings. The claw assembly may include opposing fingerlike projections. The cleaning device may be configured to handle forces from high pressure water lines. The cleaning device may be configured to assembly and disassembly via locking pins. The cleaning device may be transported and/or lowered into a vessel via a lift box or crane of the present invention. The crane may be configured for assembly at a location of interest.

Abstract: A vehicle and a method of attaching a sunroof assembly to the vehicle are disclosed. A structural frame is provided having a roof portion. The structural frame defines a passenger compartment adjacent to the roof portion. The structural frame includes a flange extending along at least a segment of the roof portion. The flange includes a first side facing inwardly toward the passenger compartment and a second side facing outwardly away from the passenger compartment. A sunroof frame is attached to the first side of the flange from inside the passenger compartment. Furthermore, a glass apparatus is operatively connected to the sunroof frame from the second side of the flange outside of the passenger compartment. Attaching the sunroof frame to the first side of the flange occurs before operatively connecting the glass apparatus to the sunroof frame. The sunroof frame and the glass apparatus define the sunroof assembly.

Abstract: Retractor systems and methods for retracting body tissue during surgery. The retractor system includes a rail having two opposed widened rail portions separated by a narrowed portion, each widened portion engageable by a separate clamp. The clamps are configured to support the rail to a fixed surface, or to support a surgical device. Each clamp may independently be positioned or slid along the rail to a desired location without interference with a clamp on an opposing widened rail portion. A device clamp is formed of spherical mating portions which enable alignment of a surgical device along six degrees of freedom, and tightenable by securing a single fastener. A retractor blade mount enables an angular and tilting disposition of a retractor blade, as well as remote manipulation of the retractor blade.

Abstract: To move a filter along a manifold assembly the filter may be seated on a moveable shuttle assembly. Seating the filter on the shuttle assembly may include mating a key portion on the filter with a key portion on the shuttle assembly, each key portion corresponding to a filtration characteristic of the filter. The shuttle assembly and the seated filter may then be moved between a first position, wherein the key portions of the filter and the shuttle assembly are mated to one another and first and second fittings of the filter are spaced from first and second fittings of the manifold assembly, and a second position, wherein the key portions of the filter and the shuttle assembly are mated to one another and the first and second fittings of the filter sealingly engage the first and second fittings of the manifold assembly.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a strong, flexible catheter shaft for use in a catheter system. The flexible catheter shaft includes a braided polyimide tube including one or more outer layers of material of varying flexibility. The flexible catheter shaft provides a shaft having sufficient stiffness and kink resistance to allow an operator to advance an electrode basket connected to the flexible catheter shaft through a guide catheter to a target ablation site without causing vessel trauma. The distal tip of the flexible catheter shaft is designed to have sufficient flexibility to reduce any risk of kicking out a guide catheter when tracking the electrode basket around turns into side branches or bifurcations in the vasculature of a patient and includes a distal spring coil.

Abstract: A growth chamber or a Czochralski crystal growth station has one or more re-sealable caps that are inserted into the chamber body. An O-ring seals the cap within its mating portion of the chamber body. The re-sealable caps facilitate re-use of the chamber body for a future crystal growth cycle.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to extrusion-coated structural systems including one or more reinforced structural members, as well as methods of making and using the same. Structural systems of the present invention that include at least one reinforced member may exhibit enhanced strength, functionality, and/or durability, while being simpler to assemble and more aesthetic than similar conventional systems. Structural systems according to embodiments of the present invention can be suitable for use in a variety of applications, including as ready-to-assemble furniture or cabinetry or as building and construction materials such as wall board, flooring, trim, and the like.

Abstract: The invention provides a dispense interface for an ejection device comprising a first part and a second part, at least a first opening, a second opening and a third opening, a fluidic channel and a connection element for each of the openings, wherein the first part is joined to said second part to form at least a part of said fluidic channel connecting said openings with each other and wherein each connection element is configured to accept a needle assembly for a fluid tight connection with said corresponding opening in order to reduce the complexity and provide an easy usage of the dispense interface and at the same time overcome the problems of material compatibility and cross contamination. The invention also relates to a system comprising a dispense interface according to the invention and a needle assembly for each opening. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for preparing a dispense interface according to the invention.

Abstract: A refillable lipstick is provided. In one implementation, a high-quality permanent lipstick dispenser incorporates a magnetic catch that enables replacement of the lipstick within the dispenser. Lipstick refills may be installed and removed from the dispenser with a refill cap that has an extraction lever. The refill cap may be made decorative. In one implementation, the refill cap and extraction lever make and break an attachment between a magnetic cup provided with the lipstick and the magnetic catch inside the permanent decorative dispenser. In an implementation, a swivel-up dispenser extends and retracts the lipstick. At extension, the user can twist a derailer, which then provides an additional groove for further extending and raising the lipstick from the dispenser for removal by the refill cap. A working cap is provided to cap the lipstick between refills.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to extrusion-coated hardware integrated structural systems, as well as methods of making and using the same. Hardware integrated structural systems of the present invention may exhibit enhanced strength, functionality, and/or durability, while being simpler to assemble and more aesthetic than similar conventional systems. Structural systems according to embodiments of the present invention can be suitable for use in a variety of applications, including as ready-to-assemble furniture or cabinetry or as building and construction materials such as wall board, flooring, trim, and the like.

Abstract: A system, apparatus, kit, and method is disclosed to organize and configure pictures in a desired image on a surface without needing to determine the alignment of individual pictures. The pictures are generally organized to create a shape, letter, word, or object that is separate and distinct from the shape of the pictures creating the image. Therefore, a series of pictures of one or more size, configuration, orientation, and or shape may be used in combination to create the image. A picture template is therefore provided having a base with an exterior boarder, and a plurality of holes in the base. The plurality of holes are arranged such that an exterior perimeter circumscribing the plurality of holes creates the desired image.

Abstract: A bevel etcher for cleaning a bevel edge of a semiconductor substrate with plasma includes a lower electrode assembly having a lower support having a cylindrical top portion. An upper dielectric component is disposed above the lower electrode assembly having a cylindrical bottom portion opposing the top portion of the lower support. A tunable upper plasma exclusion zone (PEZ) ring surrounds the bottom portion of the dielectric component, wherein a lower surface of the tunable upper PEZ ring includes an upwardly tapered outer portion extending outwardly from the bottom portion of the upper dielectric component, wherein a vertical height of an adjustable gap between the lower surface of the upper PEZ ring and an upper surface of a substrate supported on the lower support can be increased or decreased such that the extent of the bevel edge of the substrate to be cleaned by the plasma can respectively be adjusted radially inward or radially outward.

Abstract: A passive mattress encasement is disclosed which can be relatively easily installed or removed over a mattress supported by a foundation. The encasement is formed to encapsulate a mattress and includes a top panel, a bottom panel and multiple side panels. One or more of the side panels are zippered together. The unzippered side panels, i.e., the panels without zippers, fixedly connect the top panel to the bottom panel. The top and bottom panels as well as the side panels may be made from conventional materials. The underside of the top panel and optionally the inside of the side panels may be coated with a waterproof coating, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU/PU), silicone, or urethane to form a waterproof membrane. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the bottom panel is formed with a slick interior surface and a non-slick exterior surface.

Abstract: A filter cartridge in accordance with the present disclosure has a longitudinal axis and comprises a housing, a filter element, and a collar. The housing has a generally cylindrical sidewall and defines an open first end, an axially opposite second end, and a flange projecting radially away from the axis at the first end. The filter element has a ring of filter media circumscribing the axis and extending between first and second end caps. The first end cap has a generally cylindrical wall extending axially between first and second peripheral rims. The wall defines first and second seal glands adjacent the first and second rims which receive first and second seal members, respectively. A ledge projects radially outwardly from the cylindrical wall. The collar has an annular sidewall having a shoulder projecting from an inner surface. The ledge and the shoulder radially overlap and retain the flange therebetween.

Abstract: A flush mounted, vehicle door handle includes a housing having an outer wall defining an interior recess and a handle pivotally coupled to the housing. A first portion of the handle is configured for pressing on a first side of a fulcrum and a second portion of the handle is configured for pulling on a second side of the fulcrum. The handle is disposed within the interior recess of the housing when positioned in a first, resting position. The first portion of the door handle has a back surface provided for actuating a door latch mechanism of an existing vehicle door when the housing is mounted to a door panel of a vehicle. Thus, when the handle is pivoted about the fulcrum to a second position, the door latch mechanism is actuated causing the door latch mechanism to release the automobile door allowing the door to open.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the, preferably automated, changing of spacers in a plant having at least one applicator head for applying spacers to panel-shaped workpieces, in particular glass panes. Spacers from at least two sources are fed to the applicator head in an offset manner with respect to one another. A first spacer from a first source is separated. The resulting end of the first spacer and a start of the second spacer, which comes from a second source, are moved into a mutually assigned position by a changing device. Then, the end of the first spacer is connected to the start of the second spacer. A resulting connection of the first spacer with the second spacer runs through the plant until the connection has passed the applicator head. Thereafter, the second spacer is separated in a region between the connection and the applicator head.

Abstract: A shelf-type display module includes a carrier tray assembly including a carrier tray having a top, a bottom, a plurality of tracks and at least one light. The plurality of tracks protrude from the top of the carrier tray and the at least one light is mounted to the bottom of the carrier tray. An insert tray includes a main body having components for holding products for display and components for mating with the plurality of tracks on the carrier tray. The components of the main body that mate with the plurality of tracks on the carrier tray slide along the plurality of tracks from a right side to a left side of the carrier tray or from the left side to the right side of the carrier tray.

Abstract: An edge beveling tool for working leather including a handle; a cutting member comprising an arm with first and second ends, cutting surface(s) being provided on the second end, and a spring assembly for removably engaging the cutting member with the handle. The first end of the cutting member is inserted into a slot defined in the handle and is engaged by the spring assembly. The spring assembly is a spring clip which urges the first end of the cutting member into contact with an interior wall of the handle. When it is desired to replace the first cutting member with a second cutting member having a different cutting profile, the first cutting member is grasped and pulled out of the slot. A first end of the second cutting member is then inserted into the slot where the spring clip urges it contact with the interior wall of the handle.

Abstract: A hydraulic drive assembly for a large pre-existing pressurized digester vessel and a method of installation of the hydraulic drive assembly have been conceived. Such a device includes a stub shaft which has a lower end and an upper end. The lower end engages with a hydraulic drive and the upper end is coupled to a drive shaft. The coupling further includes a top coupling and a bottom coupling. The top coupling is coupled to the drive shaft, and the bottom coupling is coupled to the stub shaft. A drive support bracket is attached to the hydraulic drive and then attached to the drive support bracket by at least one sole plate that is fixed to a foundation. The hydraulic drive assembly installation method is utilized when removing an electric motor and mechanical transmission device and replacing it with a hydraulic drive assembly.

Abstract: A fishing reel includes a frame, a drag assembly and a spool. The drag assembly connects the spool to the frame and includes a base, a brake housing and a nose connected together and sealed as a single unit that can be removed and replaced from the reel.

Abstract: A post cap assembly for covering an upper end of a post is provided. The post cap assembly may include a post cap body having an internal post cavity that is sized and shaped to receive the upper end of the post and having a topper receiving aperture extending at least partially through the post cap body. An interchangeable topper may be positioned within the topper receiving aperture and projecting from the top side of the post cap body. Other post caps and related systems and methods are also provided.

Abstract: A device for collecting feces includes a loop attachable to a toilet seat having a width dimension and a height dimension, whereby the loop has a width and a circumferential length greater than twice the width and the height of the toilet seat, such that the loop encircles the toilet seat, with a portion of the loop between covered parts of the toilet seat extending downwards, forming a collection portion to collect the feces. A method for manufacturing the device, includes: providing at least one layer of sheet material; separating the sheet of material in portions having a length dimension and a width dimension, whereby the length dimension is larger than the width direction; and separating the portion of sheet material in a longitudinal direction into several strips of sheet material having a first end and a second end. A method of using the device is also described.

Abstract: A reinstalling method which, when reinstalling an object to be supported, precisely restores the object to an initial installing state in a short period of time without requiring special skills. In a state before supporting of an object to be supported by support tools is released and in each of states in which the supporting is sequentially released, load acting on at least one support tool selected from among the support tools being in a supporting state is obtained. When reinstalling, the object is sequentially supported at the same positions as those before the release by the support tools in the reverse order to that of the release, and, a vertical-direction supporting position of each support tool is adjusted so that a load cell of the selected support tool detects the same value as the load obtained in the supporting state before the support tool was released.

Abstract: A method of disassembling reinforcement from a part, the method including: fastening at least one metal stud on one side wall of the reinforcement and at least one other metal stud on the other side wall of the reinforcement, the studs extending substantially perpendicularly to the side walls on which they are fastened; moving the studs apart from each other to space apart the side walls of reinforcement and disengage snap-fastener mechanisms thereof from complementary mechanisms of the part; and removing the reinforcement from the part.

Abstract: A container or case for cosmetics or other products that are applied by an applicator tool, the container or case comprising a housing adapted to receive an exchangeable cartridge and a handle adapted to receive an exchangeable applicator tool. In some embodiments, the housing comprises a window for viewing the substance contained in the exchangeable cartridge.

Abstract: A writing instrument with a decorative element is provided including a housing having a first portion and a second portion, wherein at least one of the first and second housing portions has a recess positioned at a terminal edge thereof, and an decorative insert having a body and at least one decorative portion positioned on the body, the decorative portion having a shape that substantially corresponds to the shape of the recess such that only the decorative portion is visible when the first and second housing portions are connected together.