Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for determining the yaw angle of a trailer with respect to the longitudinal axis of a towing vehicle based on at least one feature included in multiple captured images by providing multiple algorithms for calculating at least one angle estimation.

Abstract: Provided is a system and method for replicating drawings or carvings. The system includes three drawing or carving instruments. The three drawing or carving instruments are attached to one another via a fastener between each pair of drawing or carving instruments. A first tip of a first drawing or carving instrument is oriented between 0 and 180 degrees with respect to a second tip of a second drawing or carving instrument. A third tip of a third drawing or carving instrument is oriented between 0 and 180 degrees with respect to the first tip of the first drawing or carving instrument and with respect to the second tip of the second drawing or carving instrument. A first plane defined by the first tip and the second tip is non-coplanar with a second plane defined by the first tip and the third tip.

Abstract: An electrochemical system for measuring the repassivation kinetics of a metallic material under sour oil field conditions comprises a housing made of the metallic material surrounding an internal space; insulating covers positioned on the housing, an electrolyte enclosed within the internal space of the housing and the insulating covers, a scratch tool including a second housing made of an insulting material that one end positioned in the electrolyte, a sample holder for holding a sample composed of the metallic material, and a pin tip positioned to scratch off a passivation film from the sample surface, and an electrical power source coupled to the housing and the sample within the scratch tool so as to generate an electric current between the housing and the sample, wherein the sample holder is movable with respect to the pin tip to create a scratch on the sample within the electrolyte.

Abstract: A laser level with a measurement display window is disclosed herein. The self-leveling laser level and measurement locating instrument includes a rectangular body with multiple laser light outputs wherein the color of the light beam can be changed from either green or red. Additionally, the leveling tool can be secured to a metal surface using a magnet and can be mounted to a tripod or hand carried. The laser level also has a display window for displaying the measurement indicia acquired by the laser lines. Furthermore, the laser level is configured to take measurements either horizontally or vertically.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for measuring spacing between first and second bone screws engaged with first and second bone structures are provided. An apparatus comprises first and second arms operably engaged with a single pivot pin. The first arm includes a distal end adapted to engage the first bone screw, and a proximal end comprising a graduated scale. The second arm, operably engaged with the first arm via the single pivot pin, includes a distal end adapted to engage the second bone screw, and a proximal end comprising an indicator segment slidably engaged with the graduated scale. A position of the indicator segment relative to the graduated scale is therefore indicative of a spacing between the first and second bone screws.

Abstract: A writing instrument that comprises a writing instrument base and a focus tool is provided. The writing instrument base includes a marking system coupled with a barrel. The marking system is configured to provide writings on a writing medium, such as paper. The focus tool is coupled with the writing instrument base. The focus tool is configured to blend in with the writing base. The focus tool includes a device that engages a user's senses and reduces the negative impact of attention deficit disorders when used by the user. The fidget tool stimulates the user's vestibular system and proprioceptive senses through one or more of the following: movement, sound, smell, visual, and tactile action. The fidget tool may be discreet such that the tool is hidden or not viewable when not in use.

Abstract: A writing utensil system for facilitating a pair of writing utensils to be simultaneously used includes a pair of writing utensils. Each of the writing utensils may be manipulated thereby facilitating each of the writing utensils to write. A swivel unit is provided and each of the writing utensils is removably coupled thereto. The swivel unit facilitates each of the writing utensils to be simultaneously available for writing.

Abstract: An angle-adjustable, gravity flow ink refill and pen, each comprising of at least one bendable portion along its length. The bendable portion acts as a concertina-type hinge to allow both the pen and refill to bend to an angle and maintain the bend imparted to it. In a preferred embodiment, the refill is flexible in structure (full or partial) and the pen having a crimped corrugated bendable portion. In an alternate embodiment, intertwined helical wires form the bendable portion for the pen, the refill or both to maintain the angle bent. Alternatively a flexible gooseneck tube is used for the bendable portion of the pen. The pen writes normally on flat surfaces and on inclined surfaces, the rear end of the pen is bent forward such that the rear is pointed upwards towards the sky. This allows ink to flow towards the tip via gravity and facilitate consistent delivery of ink at multiple writing angles.

Abstract: A writing instrument, comprising a tubular body having a longitudinal axis with a first and a second end, and with an opening arranged in the first end; a first building block having a body part with a substantially plane surface and one or more coupling knobs extending from the substantially plane surface, and where the first building block is fixed onto the outside of the tubular body so that the coupling knobs extend away from said longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A digital device and a method of forming a digital device. The digital device includes a body, circuitry and a folding assembly. The body is provided with a body having a pointer end and a tail end opposite the pointer end. Circuitry is disposed within the body for sending or receiving signals representing a position of the pointer end relative to a signal receiving surface disposed on a watch. A folding assembly integral with the body permits the body to fold from a linear shape to a folded shape adapted to circumscribe at least a portion of a watch band. The body may be formed with a plurality of hinges interconnecting a plurality of segments of the body, wherein the plurality of hinges connects the body segments to permit the body to pivot from the linear shape to a geometric shape adapted to circumscribe a portion of the watch band.

Abstract: The method and apparatus described herein allows for the automatic retraction and extension of the writing element of a bistable self-retaining writing instrument. The method and apparatus consists of a writing element that is joined to the end of a flexible tube or material. These are inserted through a longitudinal channel formed along the outer surface of the writing instrument and are anchored only at the end opposite the writing element. When the bistable self-retaining writing instrument transitions from a coiled to straight configuration the writing element is automatically exposed. Conversely, when pushed into its coiled configuration the writing element slides back into the channel and is thereby protected. The flexible tube or material may also act as a reservoir for a writing substrate such as ink.

Abstract: A tool and method for measuring, marking and/or scoring drywall sheets. The tool includes a housing having front and rear housing sections forming an internal chamber; a spool rotatably mounted within the chamber; a flexible tape stored on the spool and expandable and retractable from the housing; a brake mechanism mounted on the housing and engageable to maintain the tape in an extended position; a guide mounted on a second end of the tape; and a contact device extending from the housing for marking and/or scoring the surface of the sheet. The guide is placed in abutting contact with an edge of the drywall sheet and the contact device is positioned on the exterior surface thereof. The housing is moved across the exterior surface while the guide remains in abutting contact with the edge, and the contact device marks or scores the surface as the housing is moved thereover.

Abstract: A marking device incorporates a pair of legs secured at one end to each other for pivotal movement with respect to each other and wherein one of the legs includes a pivot member for positioning at a pivot point located on a surface to be marked. A weight is secured to the other of said legs for contacting the surface and wherein a paint can retainer is positioned at that end of the leg for receiving a spray paint can. A hinge is secured between the paint can retainer and the leg to permit pivotal movement between the paint can retainer, the spray paint can contained therein, and a marking cane secured to said paint can retainer and paint can. A pivoting support rod is attached to the marking cane and one of the legs of the marking device and a spacer bar is pivotally secured between the two legs of the device wherein the two legs may be pivoted towards each other and the marking cane may be pivoted toward the legs to provide a collapsed marking device for convenient transportation and storage.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods for measuring spacing between first and second bone screws engaged with first and second bone structures are provided. An apparatus comprises first and second arms operably engaged with a single pivot pin. The first arm includes a distal end adapted to engage the first bone screw, and a proximal end comprising a graduated scale. The second arm, operably engaged with the first arm via the single pivot pin, includes a distal end adapted to engage the second bone screw, and a proximal end comprising an indicator segment slidably engaged with the graduated scale. A position of the indicator segment relative to the graduated scale is therefore indicative of a spacing between the first and second bone screws.

Abstract: A tool for applying a circular indicia onto a surface, such as a ceiling, wall or other flat surface, with a marking implement has a base that includes a first side with a center punch projecting away therefrom. At least one marker holder is fixed with a second side of the base and configured to hold the marking implement therein, such that a marking point of the marking implement projects through a marking aperture traversing the base. A handle is selectively removable from the base and is adapted for selective engagement with the center punch to assume a collapsed configuration.

Abstract: A combined set of interacting instruments for constructing and analyzing mathematical figures includes a ruler, an adjustable triangle assembly, a compass and a protractor. The ruler includes an elongated strip of rigid or semi-rigid plastic having a length, width and relatively thin thickness. A pivot point is provided in a general middle portion of the ruler together with three parallel longitudinally extending guideways along portions of the ruler. One of the guideways includes a positioning hole for a writing instrument to act as a compass. The triangular assembly includes two moveable elements having first and second ends with the two elements pivotally connected together at one end of each of the elements so they can be disposed in an end to end relationship. The moveable elements also have a guide follower that fits within one of the guideways in the ruler.

Abstract: A line gauge device for constructing lines and contours on auto body components featuring a first pivot arm and a second pivot arm pivotally connected via a pivot component. The pivot arms can pivot toward and away from each other. The pivot component is biased to pivot the pivot arms away from each other. A threaded adjustment rod with a thumb wheel disposed in both the first and second pivot arms functions to secure the pivot arms in a particular position. A utensil holding component is disposed on the second end of the first pivot arm. A surface guide base with surface guide rollers is disposed on the second end of the second pivot arm.

Abstract: A combined set of interacting instruments for constructing and analyzing mathematical figures includes a ruler, an adjustable triangle assembly, a compass and a protractor. The ruler includes an elongated strip of rigid or semi-rigid plastic having a length, width and relatively thin thickness. A pivot point is provided in a general middle portion of the ruler together with three parallel longitudinally extending guideways along portions of the ruler. One of the guideways includes a positioning hole for a writing instrument to act as a compass. The triangular assembly includes two moveable elements having first and second ends with the two elements pivotally connected together at one end of each of the elements so they can be disposed in an end to end relationship. The moveable elements also have a guide follower that fits within one of the guideways in the ruler.

Abstract: Pair of compasses, having a first compass portion and a second compass portion which are connected together via a hinge having a locking device, which hinge comprises a hinge member mounted rotatably relative to the first or second compass portion, the locking device being spaced from the axis of rotation of the hinge member, the locking device having a threaded element generating a clamping force and cooperating with a nut (11, 12) in order to clamp the hinge member (13) in the locked state against the first and second compass portions, the clamping force acting perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hinge member (13).

Abstract: A compass writing implement includes a compass body having two compass legs mutually pivotable between closed and splayed-out states. A writing lead is mounted in one of the compass legs. A protective cap is or can be fitted onto the free end of at least the compass leg holding the writing lead, to shield the free ends of the two compass legs in the closed state from the outside. The protective cap has a passage for the writing lead at a distal end remote from the compass body in the fitted state. The writing lead and the fitted protective cap are mutually displaceable between a release state and a retention state. In the release state, a lead tip of the writing lead protrudes through the passage of the protective cap to the outside and in the retention state, the writing lead is retracted in the interior of the protective cap.

Abstract: A compass includes two legs having upper ends interconnected in a leg joint and lower ends with holders for refills or styluses. An adjusting spindle penetrates the legs, in particular, in vicinity of the leg joint. The legs have carrier zones in the form of widenings serving in a region between the leg joint and the free leg ends as a base of an information bearing surface surpassing the width of the legs in their spreading plane. The information bearing surfaces are disposed on both broad sides of the compass and constructed as undivided surfaces projecting from one leg into the region of the other leg. If the compass is closed, two mounting disks of the information bearing surfaces lie congruently above one another and only two outer information bearing surfaces and can be seen. All four information bearing surfaces can be seen in the open state of the compass.

Abstract: A compass includes two legs having upper ends interconnected in a leg joint and lower ends with holders for refills or styluses. An adjusting spindle penetrates the legs, in particular, in vicinity of the leg joint. The legs have carrier zones in the form of widenings serving in a region between the leg joint and the free leg ends as a base of an information bearing surface surpassing the width of the legs in their spreading plane. The information bearing surfaces are disposed on both broad sides of the compass and constructed as undivided surfaces projecting from one leg into the region of the other leg. If the compass is closed, two mounting disks of the information bearing surfaces lie congruently above one another and only two outer information bearing surfaces and can be seen. All four information bearing surfaces can be seen in the open state of the compass.

Abstract: Pair of compasses, having a first compass portion and a second compass portion which are connected together via a hinge having a locking device, which hinge comprises a hinge member mounted rotatably relative to the first or second compass portion, the locking device being spaced from the axis of rotation of the hinge member, the locking device having a threaded element generating a clamping force and cooperating with a nut (11, 12) in order to clamp the hinge member (13) in the locked state against the first and second compass portions, the clamping force acting perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the hinge member (13).

Abstract: A compasses writing implement includes a compasses body having two compasses legs mutually pivotable between closed and splayed-out states. A writing lead is mounted in one of the compasses legs. A protective cap is or can be fitted onto the free end of at least the compasses leg holding the writing lead, to shield the free ends of the two compasses legs in the closed state from the outside. The protective cap has a passage for the writing lead at a distal end remote from the compasses body in the fitted state. The writing lead and the fitted protective cap are mutually displaceable between a release state and a retention state. In the release state, a lead tip of the writing lead protrudes through the passage of the protective cap to the outside and in the retention state, the writing lead is retracted in the interior of the protective cap.

Abstract: An apparatus for drafting a framework for a pattern and a method of using the apparatus is presented. The apparatus includes a generally rigid planer structure. A pivot point includes a pivot point aperture extending through the rigid planer structure for enabling scribing a center point of the framework and rotating the rigid planer structure about the center point. A plurality of lines pass through the pivot point. Each of the plurality of lines includes a plurality of apertures for enabling scribing marks for forming a basis for lines in the framework. At least one line of generally equally spaced longitudinal apertures, wherein each of the longitudinal apertures is at a first fixed radial distance from the pivot point, enables scribing a circle for the framework, where the circle is scribed by rotation of the rigid planer structure about the pivot point.

Abstract: A measuring compass is disclosed. The compass comprises a marking leg, a pegging leg which symmetrically form into a shape of a pencil. The upper end of the pegging leg and the marking leg is a center plate or gear module, and the bottom end is a protective cover for protecting the marking leg and the pegging leg. When the compass is not in use, the marking leg and the pegging leg are closed to each other and the protective cover caps the legs. The compass can be inserted to a pocket.

Abstract: A measuring compass is disclosed. The compass comprises a marking leg, a pegging leg which symmetrically form into a shape of a pencil. The upper end of the pegging leg and the marking leg is a center plate or gear module, and the bottom end is a protective cover for protecting the marking leg and the pegging leg. When the compass is not in use, the marking leg and the pegging leg are closed to each other and the protective cover caps the legs. The compass can be inserted to a pocket.

Abstract: Current methods for station keeping an object in the ocean or body of water involve mooring assemblies or active and complex navigation and differential thrust or thrust and rudder assemblies. The embodiments herein provide a method and device for compensating for the force of water or ocean currents through the use of a hydrofoil assembly to orient a device in the water current direction, through the use of any number of devices for sensing water current force, and through the use of a motor assembly to produce sufficient thrust to compensate for water current drift. An alternate embodiment allows the method to be employed without sensing the force of the water current. The method does not require directional thrust or active rudder assemblies, is highly portable, utilizes minimal power, is light weight, is scalable, and can be operated in any body of water.

Abstract: The “Pivot Pencil” is a writing instrument: carpenters pencil, mechanical pencil, pen, marking pen, etc; A Pivot Swivel Joint inserted into the center of the Wooden Outer Casing that “allows the tool to pivot in various angles”, which allows the pencil access in tight spots and around corners. If you can't reach the surface you wish to mark, you might as well guess. But the “Pivot Pencil” can take away all the guesswork. The unique pivoting design is all the accuracy you need.

Abstract: A compass includes a leg joint and two compass legs provided at lower ends with holders for refills or styluses and articulated with one another at upper ends. An adjusting spindle penetrates the compass legs, in particular in the vicinity of the leg joint. The compass legs are respectively provided with a carrier zone, in particular as a widening, that serves in the region between the leg joint and the free leg ends as a base of an information bearing surface surpassing the width of the compass legs in their spreading plane. The information bearing surface is disposed on at least one of the two broad sides of the compass and is constructed as an undivided surface that projects from one leg into the region of the other leg and permits the opening and closing of the legs without a gap or interspace being formed in the information bearing surface.

Abstract: The “Pivot Pencil” is a writing instrument: carpenters pencil, mechanical pencil, pen, marking pen, etc; A Pivot Swivel Joint inserted into the center of the Wooden Outer Casing that “allows the tool to pivot in various angles”, which allows the pencil access in tight spots and around corners. If you can't reach the surface you wish to mark, you might as well guess. But the “Pivot Pencil” can take away all the guesswork. The unique pivoting design is all the accuracy you need.

Abstract: A safe, stable compass for making circles and ellipses, having a stable rotating platform with a variably adjustable arm that allows the device to be self-supporting upon a surface and to be easily rotated in any one of a variety of directions around a single rotating point. The invention allows persons of limited manual dexterity to apply force in one location and then to rotate the entire device around this one point.

Abstract: A protractor and ruler combination includes a main ruler having a side formed with a protractor, a secondary ruler rotatably mounted on the main ruler, and an auxiliary ruler having a side secured on the secondary ruler, so that the secondary ruler is moved in concert with the auxiliary ruler on the protractor of the main ruler. Thus, the auxiliary ruler is moved relative to the main ruler, and the secondary ruler is moved in concert with the auxiliary ruler on the protractor of the main ruler, so that the included angle between the ruler section of the main ruler and the ruler section of the auxiliary ruler is measured exactly.

Abstract: There is provided a compass assembly that includes a first member pivotally connected to a second member at a common end. The first member has an anchor point opposite the common end, and the second member retains a marking device opposite the common end. The compass assembly also includes a compressible cover positioned over the anchor point.

Abstract: A circle forming apparatus (100) for a power tool and a method for using the apparatus provides for the formation of circles or circular apertures in a workpiece. A first arm (104) and second arm (106) are rotatably coupled, and a fastener allows a user to secure the first arm relative to the second arm. The second arm includes a pivot point (108), and the first arm includes means (102) for coupling the first arm to a power tool.

Abstract: Auxiliary drafting instrument combination applicable to digital board, including a base seat formed with at least one pivot hole; a compass having a pivot seat for pivotally connecting two legs, a bottom end of one of the legs being snugly pivotally fitted in the pivot hole of the base seat, the other leg being connected with an electronic pen; and a subsidiary ruler one end of which is pivotally connectable on the base seat. By means of the combination of the base seat and the compass, a circle can be input on the digital board or by means of the combination of the base seat and the subsidiary ruler, an oblique line can be input on the digital board.

Abstract: A protective member is provided for a compass device including two pivotably connected legs wherein one leg has a distal end including a projecting pin. This end also includes matching elongate slots in opposed surfaces and matching spaced grooves formed in these opposed surfaces at an upper distal portion. The member includes spaced side wall joined by an orthogonal wall. The side walls include internal shoulders at one end and internal, oppositely projecting lugs. The lugs are received in the slots in the one leg to able movement of the member between one end of the slots wherein the member is maintained in an inoperative position, and a second end wherein the member is disposed in an intermediate position. The member is pivotable about the lugs in to an operative position wherein the pin is shielded by the member.

Abstract: A safe, stable compass for making circles and ellipses, having a stable rotating platform with a variably adjustable arm that allows the device to be self-supporting upon a surface and to be easily rotated in any one of a variety of directions around a single rotating point. The invention allows persons of limited manual dexterity to apply force in one location and then to rotate the entire device around this one point.

Abstract: A measurement device having a pair of legs. Each leg has a measurement point and a fulcrum end, the fulcrum ends providing a pivot point for the legs so that the measurement points arcuately move apart from one another. The measurement device has a transducer assembly connected to at least one of the legs which measures leg displacement and generates a distance signal. The measurement device has a programmable processing unit adapted to process the distance signal and display a distance measurement on an electronic display.

Abstract: Auxiliary drafting instrument combination applicable to digital board, including a base seat formed with at least one pivot hole; a compass having a pivot seat for pivotally connecting two legs, a bottom end of one of the legs being snugly pivotally fitted in the pivot hole of the base seat, the other leg being connected with an electronic pen; and a subsidiary ruler one end of which is pivotally connectable on the base seat. By means of the combination of the base seat and the compass, a circle can be input on the digital board or by means of the combination of the base seat and the subsidiary ruler, an oblique line can be input on the digital board.

Abstract: A measuring apparatus for identifying the boundaries and indicia of a basketball court or street hockey rink, respectively. In a first embodiment, the measuring apparatus comprises the combination of an elongate measuring strip and the casing for containing the same. The casing is preferably attached to the base of a portable basketball backboard and hoop set such that the measuring strip may be extended therefrom and extended across the playing surface to identify the boundaries and indicia inherent to a conventional basketball court. The second embodiment likewise comprises the combination of an elongate measuring strip and the casing for housing the same, and is designed and configured to identify the boundaries and indicia of a street hockey rink. The casing is preferably formed upon the frame of a conventional street hockey goal net with the measuring strip being extensible therefrom to measure out and identify the placement of the boundaries and indicia inherent to a street hockey rink.

Abstract: A tape measure usable for positioning and repositioning an object on a vertical surface comprises a housing having a planar forward surface, a rearward surface spaced from the forward surface, and a cavity having an aperture therein. A flexible, retractable, coiled tape measure is mounted in the housing the working end of which extends through the aperture in the housing. A pin is provided at the distal end of the tape for marking a point on a surface. The housing has a second pin thereon which is axially moveable from an extended position to a retracted position such that it is useable as a marker when the pin is in the extended position. The rearward surface of the housing has a 360° angle measuring device for measuring the angle at which the housing is oriented with respect to an edge defined by the intersection of a side panel and the forward surface of the housing.

Abstract: A compass assembly, a system and a method of using the compass assembly are provided. The compass assembly has a removable marking device attached to one of the legs. The other leg contains a retractable sleeve having a spring and engaging pin therein. In use, pressure is applied to the leg having the sleeve thereby pushing the engaging pin through a hole in the retractable sleeve thereby anchoring the compass and providing a point around which the compass may be spun. The marking device attached to the other leg of the compass may be removed to be changed, replaced or refilled. A marking device with various writing media, such as multiple colors or lead may be attached to the leg. Separate components of the compass may be distinctly colored to provide an instructional aid for using the compass.

Abstract: An insulative caliper type pivotal mounting pivotally secures two elongate arms that at their free ends mount a pair of electrically conductive pointed contacts. Electrical conductors connected to the contacts extend through each of the insulative elongate arms and through the elastic pivotal mounting from which they exit as a coaxial cable. On the distal end of the coaxial cable is positioned a quick connect-disconnect jack adapted for mounting onto a complementary jack in an electronic test instrument. The separation between the pointed ends of the contacts is infinitely adjustable by means of a thumb screw having reversed threaded studs extending from the opposed sides of the center thereof into threaded pivotal mountings on each of the elongate arms. The dual point test probe may be infinitely adjusted, maintained in the predetermined separation and may be manually manipulatable by the single hand of a user when testing current, voltage drop, capacitance, inductance or the like between the contact points.

Abstract: A scribe/guide tool used as a compass and to layout stair stringers. The tool is also used in conjunction with a straightedge or a rule to function as a compass, and is most often used in pairs. A scribe means is removably inserted into the body of the tool. The tool includes a clamping means with smooth surfaces to affix the scribe/guide tool to another cooperating tool. A clamp element is moved up and down relative to the main body via a screw drive. Position indicating edges of the main body of the tool are tapered to a very narrow point to reduce the possibility of accumulated error when marking a workpiece with the tool as a guide.

Abstract: A carpenter's gauge for use as a marking gauge or a compass includes a compass bar, a pin carrier, and a marking instrument holder. The compass bar is an elongated bar having a slot formed along its center. The pin carrier slides along the compass bar and includes a pin holder and a knob located opposite the pin holder along the compass bar. The pin holder includes a reference surface that lies substantially in line with a pin held by the pin holder. The knob allows the pin holder to be rotated between a first position where the reference surface lies parallel to the compass bar, and a second position where the reference surface lies perpendicular to the compass bar. When the reference surface lies perpendicular to the compass bar, the gauge may be used as a marking gauge or a compass by inserting a marking instrument into the marking instrument holder. Etched markings along the compass bar indicate the distance between the reference surface or pin and the marking instrument.