Abstract: The present invention provides a producing technique of round polished concrete aggregate in which water-absorption characteristics are suppressed as low as possible while rounding an outer shape of the round polished concrete aggregate, and when the round polished concrete aggregate is used as concrete aggregate, a percentage of absolute volume can be enhanced and a unit water volume can be reduced.

Abstract: Scented decorative grasses having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance of paper are disclosed, as are method for making such decorative grasses from materials wherein at least one surface of the materials is modified to simulate the texture or appearance of paper.

Abstract: The present invention solves these needs by providing a building product, and a process for making the building product, that simulates the look of wood, marble, granite or other stone. The product is created by transferring a high-resolution image to a coated substrate using sublimation printing techniques. High-resolution, digital images are taken of a natural surface. These images are used to create an image on a transfer paper using sublimation inks. Building panels such as masonite, hardboard, medium density fiberboard, fiber-reinforced plastics, or cementboard, are provided with a polyester epoxy acrylate coating, or equivalent substrate capable of receiving sublimable inks. The transfer paper with the printed image is placed face-down on the substrate of the building panel. The transfer paper is pressed against the substrate and heated for a time sufficient to gasify the sublimable inks. The gasification causes the image to transfer into the image-receiving substrate.

Abstract: A method of delivering cultivated plant embryos including the step of orientating a plurality of plant embryos in a predetermined orientation. Analyzing each of the plurality of embryos according to a predetermined quality criteria to identify qualified embryos. Determining positional measurements of the qualified embryos and positioning a first seed coat relative to the qualified embryos. The method also includes the step of inserting one of the qualified embryos in the seed coat according to the positional measurements of the qualified embryos to minimize damage to and contamination of the qualified embryos.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for treating a cattail blossom. A cattail blossom is soaked in a thinned adhesive mixture. When dry, the resulting treated blossom does not burst and can be used for a very long period of time as a decorative item.

Abstract: A simulated Christmas tree is comprised of an array, or net, of interconnected light strings, tie wires and semi-rigid hoops. Spaced apart segments of light strings run downwardly from a hub which is at the top of a center pole that extends from a base. The light string segments are fastened to the horizontal hoops; and tie wires run horizontally between the segments, at elevations intermediate the hoops and intermediate the uppermost hoop and the hub which is at the top of the tree. The hoops create the conical shape. They are adapted to nest within one another, with clearance for the wires, and enable a knock down design. A detachable illuminated decoration is mounted on the hub at the pinnacle of the tree. The string light segments and bulbs in the star are electrically connected to blink, and to thus produce a twinkling tree effect.

Abstract: A composition or composite structure having an appearance of soil or a soil mixture and method of making and using the composition are disclosed. The composition comprises a mixture of cellulose particles and a binding adhesive. The mixture of cellulose particles may be selected from wood particles, wood chips, sawdust, or a combination thereof. The cellulose particles comprise a plurality of sizes and a plurality of shapes. The cellulose particles may be color-treated, dyed, stained, or bleached to a desired color such as black, dark brown, tan, or a combination thereof. Also disclosed are kits comprising the cellulose particle mixture and an adhesive packaged together with instructions for use.

Abstract: A method for making decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern which constitutes at least a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. Printed designs or materials and/or embossed materials can also constitute a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. The method includes slitting a material having a three-dimensional pattern on at least a portion of at least one surface thereof and then cutting the slit material into segments of a predetermined length to provide the decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern.

Abstract: A synthetic resin leather comprising a substrate at least one surface of which is arranged with a synthetic resin layer, wherein said synthetic resin layer contains 1 to 70 weight parts of bridged polyalkylene oxide to 100 weight parts of synthetic resin. As the synthetic resin, polyvinyl chloride resin, acrylic soft resin, mixed resin composed of 50-95 wt. % of thermoplastic polyurethane and 50-5 wt. % of acrylic soft resin, copolymer of polyester resin or polyolefin resin can be used. A surface coating layer containing powder of natural organic substance can be arranged over the surface of synthetic resin layer of said synthetic resin leather. As the powder of natural organic substance, collagen can be desirably used. Further, on the surface of the synthetic resin leather, it is desirable to mark a pattern and to make the height of convex part of the pattern higher than 0.05 mm.

Abstract: A replica of fossil or the like can be handily manufactured using color prints obtained by photographing the fossil without preparing a mother mold. An overlaying replica is manufactured by preparing a plurality of prints, each having the same size, and obtained by photographing a collected specimen from given angles, cutting specimen parts to form a plurality of specimen prints, bonding said specimen prints by a solid paste one by one substantially in the same direction while they are overlaid on one another and kept at a given interval therebetween. A heaping replica is manufactured by preparing two prints, each having the same size and obtained by photographing a collected specimen from given angles, cutting specimen parts to form two specimen prints, molding a specimen dimensionally on the first specimen print by plastics using a spatula, and overlaying and bonding the second specimen print onto the molded three-dimensional specimen.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a material having improved mechanical properties, clarity, processability and/or degradation resistance comprising a polyurethane elastomeric composition which includes a soft segment derived from at least one polysiloxane macrodiol and at least one polyether and/or polycarbonate macrodiol. This material can function as a degradation-resistant material or biomaterial and is particularly useful in the manufacture of medical devices, articles or implants which contact living tissue or bodily fluids. The present invention also provides a polyurethane elastomeric composition which includes a soft segment derived from at least one polysiloxane and at least one polyether and/or polycarbonate macrodiol and processes for its preparation.

Abstract: The following artificial stone having a deep color tone and a glaze and having a luminousness is provided at low costs. An artificial mixture in which a fine powder component of an inorganic material having a size of from 5 to 70 mesh is used, the sum of this fine powder component and a finely divided component of an inorganic material of 100 mesh-under is 89% by weight or more of the product and a resin component is 11% or less is struck and integrated into a cured slab which has been cured.

Abstract: This invention is in the area of three-dimensional holiday decorations and their manufacture, and specifically in the area of an illuminated decoration to replace natural stems for the tops of pumpkins, squash and gourd-type fruits as used in Halloween, Thanksgiving, Harvest, Christmas and similar holiday-type decorations. An artificial replacement stem and various assorted appendages such as witches and apparitions are provided.

Abstract: An assembly (10 and 12), the construction of which makes up a taxidermy core or form for small mammals, has a limbless main body (10) and attachable/detachable locking legs (12). Locking is predominantly achieved by a male post (14) inserting inside a female receptive lock (16). When the specimen animal is being mounted, the assembly's parts (10 and 12) are serially slid in through the taxidermist's working opening in the sock-like skin, the succession in general being forelimbs (12) first, then rear limbs (12) or the main body (10). The parts (10 and 12) once slid inside can be shifted about until the male posts (14) and the female receptive locks (16) are engaged. The positional stability of the legs (12) relative to the main body (10) is enhanced by a body key (18).

Abstract: A hollow artificial stone structure includes a mixed material of stone powder and adhesive, molded by a tool having an inner wall with the same shape as a contour of the finished work piece, and a hollow blank having the almost same shape as the molding tool with a size smaller than the molding tool. The hollow blank is placed into a mold room in the molding tool such that a clearance is formed between the inner wall and the bush blank. The mixed material is poured into the clearance so as to fill with the clearance and then solidified as a firm shape with the hollow blank. The molding tool is separated to obtain the hollow artificial stone with a thickness of the clearance and the hollow blank.

Abstract: A synthetic grass assembly for installation on a supporting soil substrate includes a pile fabric with a flexible sheet backing and rows of upstanding synthetic ribbons representing grass blades, extending upwardly from an upper surface of the backing. An infill layer of two distinct graded courses of particulate material is disposed interstitially between the upstanding ribbons upon the upper surface of the backing and of a depth less than the length of the ribbons. A bottom course of intermixed hard sand and resilient rubber granules with substantially identical particle size distribution characteristics is installed upon the backing and a top course exclusively of resilient rubber granules is placed upon the bottom course.

Abstract: Synthetic roofing products such as simulated slate and clay tile shingles, and other products, such as flower pots, floor coverings, plastic pallets and the like are compression molded from a mixture of ultra low density polyethylene binder and a filler which may comprise recycled rubber products such as E.D.P.M (ethylene propylene diene monomer) and S.B.R. (styrene butadiene rubber). Colorants may be added to the mixture prior to final molding. Many of the products, especially synthetic shingles, are less expensive, easier to handle, and more durable than the slate or clay tile shingle product simulated.

Abstract: The present invention includes a safety system for airports and airfields. The present invention includes a method for installing an aesthetically pleasing artificial turf that retards birds and other animals and a sub-surface that supports the weight of an aircraft, enhances water drainage and enables the accessibility of airport vehicles to all parts of a runway or taxiway. The present invention also includes the sub-surface being adapted to slow the motion of a runway airplane. The present invention further includes a repelling artificial turf, which includes the artificial or synthetic fibers as well as stiff fibers or fibers otherwise uncomfortable for an animal or bird to land on, walk on or lay on.

Abstract: The Bead Working Tray is made of a laminate surfaced material and trimmed in wood. Grooves are routed into the surface of the material. A smooth surface is created on the substrate as each groove is routed. Each groove is rounded on the bottom and at both ends. ⅛ inch of the wood trim extends above the surface of the tray to prevent beads from sliding off the surface of the tray. A plastic scoop is provided to facilitate in the transfer of beads to and from the tray. As beading artist gently slides the scoop across the bottom of a groove, the sides and bottom of the scoop mimic the shape of the groove. The scoop effortlessly gathers up all of the beads contained within each groove. The beads are held securely within the walls of the scoop and can then be transferred back to their original storage containers.

Abstract: A synthetic grass assembly for installation on a supporting soil substrate includes a pile fabric with a flexible sheet backing and rows of upstanding synthetic ribbons representing grass blades, extending upwardly from an upper surface of the backing. An infill layer of two distinct graded courses of particulate material is disposed interstitially between the upstanding ribbons upon the upper surface of the backing and of a depth less than the length of the ribbons. A bottom course of intermixed hard sand and resilient rubber granules with substantially identical particle size distribution characteristics is installed upon the backing and a top course exclusively of resilient rubber granules is placed upon the bottom course.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of selectively coating wood composites in a single step, while maintaining registration of the coating to the design of the molded or contoured wood composite. The invention also is directed to a structure provided by preparing a wood composite according to the inventive method.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hardscape surface sheet and a method of representing a hardscape surface. The hardscape surface sheet comprises a substrate or sheet bearing an image of a hardscape surface. The substrate allows an individual to temporarily display the image in the area where the hardscape surface is desired and evaluate the appearance of the hardscape surface in itself, and in relation to its surroundings.

Abstract: A manufactured article made of ceramic, natural or artificial stone, for finishing buildings, claddings, furnishings or the like, comprising at least two substantially flat elements made of ceramic, natural or artificial stone, which are mutually assembled and in which the surfaces that are in mutual contact are different from the respective laying surfaces, the elements being mutually coupled so as to form a monolithic body by fixing elements that are arranged at least proximate to the region where they are joined, the body having a profiled front surface forming the exposed surface of the manufactured article and a rear surface forming the surface for coupling the manufactured article to portions or surfaces of buildings, claddings, furnishings or the like to be finished.

Abstract: Decorative grass having an optical effect constructed of a first sheet of material aligned with and bonded to a substantially iridescent second sheet of material to form an optical effect material. The optical effect material is shredded to produce a plurality of strips of decorative grass having an optical effect. A third sheet of material can be aligned with and bonded to the iridescent second sheet, wherein the first or third sheet of material is light transmitting. The first sheet of material can be constructed from paper, polymeric film, metallized film, foil, fabric, burlap or combinations thereof.

Abstract: To ensure that a camouflage structure will not lose its effectiveness even in changing temperatures (day/night, sunshine/clouds) when protecting against reconnaissance in the IR range, the camouflage structure features varying emissivity tendencies in the atmospheric windows II (3-5 um) and III (8-14 um). In other words, the emissivity in the IR range is not constant and at a certain level, but it has an increasing or decreasing tendency in at least one selected spectral range.

Abstract: The present invention is comprised of a proper number of segments, wherein each segment includes more than one palm-shaped branches, in which the cords is located and hidden on a core shaft by wrapping a belt to fasten a cluster of the needle-shaped leaves synchronously, or by binding a cluster of the needle-shaped leaves molded the cords into directly synchronously to construct a basic unit of the Christmas tree-shaped decorating lamp to meet the functions of improving whole valuation and facility of transportation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a Christmas tree structure. The main trunks have numerous branches; the main trunks and the branches are pre-assembled. The upper end of the tree trunks has a male protrusion; the bottom end of it has a bottom rigid arm connector. Through the upper male protrusion of the main trunks connected into the bottom rigid arm connector of the main trunks, it is to form a shape of the Christmas tree by connecting several main trunks together one layer after another. There is a space near the pivotal end of the branch between branches and branches; therefore, it can be hung all kinds of ornaments or tinseled all sorts of ribbons on each main trunk. There is a circular hole on the treetop for the star ornament as well as the lights.

Abstract: A method for making decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern which constitutes at least a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. Printed designs or materials and/or embossed materials can also constitute a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. The method includes slitting a material having a three-dimensional pattern on at least a portion of at least one surface thereof and then cutting the slit material into segments of a predetermined length to provide the decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern.

Abstract: A method for making decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern which constitutes at least a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. Printed designs or materials and/or embossed materials can also constitute a portion of the decor of the decorative grass. The method includes slitting a material having a three-dimensional pattern on at least a portion of at least one surface thereof and then cutting the slit material into segments of a predetermined length to provide the decorative grass having a three-dimensional pattern.

Abstract: A countertop assembly having a top sheet of about 93% natural quartz material and about 7% of resins and pigments to form a stone-like sheet, with just enough resins to bind the quartz in polymeric chains. The top sheet is about 1 cm in thickness and has a honeycomb backer sheet of about 1-inch thickness and forms a lightweight core material with cell structure of vertical positioned tubular form.

Abstract: A multi-colored rattan stick is made by marking a plurality of subsections along the length of the stick. A first subsection of the stick is dipped into a first color bath containing a coloring agent. After the first subsection has dried, second and subsequent subsections are sequentially dipped into respective color baths, and dried between each dipping. The various coloring agents can be different tones of the same color.

Abstract: A method for forming artificial rocks that possess suitable weight and strength and that allows for the formation of artificial rocks with large undercuts is provided. The method consists of creating an outer mold of a natural rock, then using the mold to create a test artificial rock. The test rock is then structurally tested. Structural reinforcement members are added to the interior of a second test rock to structurally strengthen the test rock until a suitable test rock is created. The suitable test rock is then used to create an inner shell conforming to the inside surface of the test rock. Production rocks are created by molding a cementitious material between the outer mold and the inner shell. Additionally, a stand suitable for holding the artificial rock in a stable position during manufacture and that allows for the easy release of an artificial rock after formation is provided.

Abstract: An article for use in an aquatic environment comprises a translucent polymer material that is configured to reproduce a form of aquarium life. In embodiments of the invention, the translucent polymer material comprises a highly pliable polymer material capable of substantially retaining its shape, such as, but not limited to, thermoplastics, rubbers, silicones, and Plastigoop®. In further embodiments of the invention, the form of aquarium life that the translucent polymer material is configured to reproduce can be a sea anemone, a sea plant, a sea weed, live coral, a scallop, a clam, a sea cucumber, a sea apple, a nudibranch, or a jellyfish. In another aspect of the invention, a process for reproducing articles configured to reproduce aquarium life comprises processing an appropriate polymer material, and in other embodiments, further processing one or more additives, such as dyes, whereby an article reproducing one or more types of aquarium life is formed.

Abstract: In order to create a full grain napa cowhide which exhibits the characteristics with respect to grain pipeyness and water vapor permeability that are required by the automotive and upholstery industries, a finish is applied to the grain side of the full grain leather. The finish includes a pigmented layer with a thickness of between 0.015 mm and 0.04 mm and is formed of a stabilized polyurethane and/or polyacrylate dispersion. The dispersion contains microspheres with a diameter of less than 45 &mgr;m, which form primarily closed cells, and at least 10% open cells by volume. The top side of the layer is provided with a napa embossing. A second layer, placed on the first layer, is formed from a cross-linked polyurethane-based varnish application containing a dulling agent. The leather undergoes a milling treatment.

Abstract: A pre-textured sealing tape is provided for sealing the chink between the stacked logs in a log structure. A woven or textile type of backing support material is coated with a thin layer of flexible moisture impermeable material resembling conventional chinking materials. A suitable adhesive can be applied to the opposite side of the support materials with the adhesive covered by a release layer. The tape is cut to the desired width for the chink that is to be sealed and is finished in a rolled configuration. An acrylic resin mixed with silicon sand has been found to be preferable for the flexible texturing of the tape. The tape can be applied directly to the logs or to objects positioned within the chink, such as splines or insulation sheeting.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing an image on an organic product to provide a communication to the recipient or otherwise individualize the organic product. The image is photo-etched into a photosensitive material of a printing plane or cliché by the use of a film positive. Ink is applied to the cliché and a transfer medium is placed in contact with the cliché. The transfer medium lifts ink from the image area of the cliché and creates a negative image on the medium. The transfer medium transfers the inked image onto an organic product, such as a flower petal or leaf. The printed image is then set so as to remain on the organic product to communicate a message to and/or to individualize the product for the intended recipient.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a simulated limestone, a method of producing the simulated limestone, and a method of achieving a surface texture. The simulated limestone has been specifically formulated and designed in order to overcome the currently existing problems of other simulated or artificial stones that are currently available. The invention additionally discloses a method of producing the simulated limestone which provides unique characteristics. Also disclosed, is a method of preparing a surface texture which provides a product having the enhanced appearance of natural limestone. Both methods disclosed herein may be completed in a time efficient manner and produce a simulated limestone having the appearance of natural limestone and other benefits described herein.

Abstract: The tufted surface covering includes a base formed from particles of a thermosetting polymer compound mixed with a particle binding agent causing a portion of the particles to bind together to form a self supporting web. The base is tufted with a tufting material. Thermosetting vulcanized natural and/or synthetic rubber compounds are employed. The polymer layer is tufted with a tufting material and heated to a temperature of from about 110° C. to about 220° C. at an elevated pressure of up to two tons per square inch, to cause the particles to bind together at elevated temperature and pressure to anchor and seal the tufts in place. Cross-linking agents and polar polymer containing compounds may be employed as particle binding agents. In another aspect of the invention, a second layer of particles of a thermosetting polymer mixed with a particle binding agent may be joined together with the particles of the first layer at elevated temperature and pressure.

Abstract: An artificial turf field comprises a mat with artificial grass stitched to the mat and rubber granules combined with powdered latex or other suitable powdered binding agent activated by water. Mats with the artificial grass affixed are laid on an athletic field. Rubber granules mixed with a bonding agent and the coated rubber granules are poured over the mats and raked until a depth of ½ to ¾ inches is achieved. Water is then misted onto the surface activating the bonding agent. The first layer is allowed to set. The first level of infil material will be bound particle to particle, to the grass and to the mat by the agent, thus ensuring a stablized shock absorbency pad. Additionally, the stabilized layer eliminates substantial migration of loose infil material.

Abstract: A leather-like sheet product comprising (a) a sheet layer (1) composed of a fiber assembly (1) of fine fibers and an elastic polymer (A) existent in a space between fibers of the fiber assembly (1), (b) a sheet layer (2) essentially composed of a fiber assembly (2) or composed of a fiber assembly (2) and an elastic polymer (C) existent in a space between fibers of the fiber assembly (2), and (c) an adhesive layer composed of an elastic polymer (B) for bonding together the sheet layer (1) and the sheet layer (2), wherein

Abstract: The present invention relates to luminescent playthings such as candles, table lights, pen lights, illumination, illuminating playthings for camp, illuminating playthings for night fishing, fish-gathering lamps, safety candles, neon lights, luminescent inks, luminescent pens, luminescent coatings or luminescent writing implements, in which a soft light of an indescribable tone of color not obtainable from flames of conventional candles is emitted via seawater, lake and marsh water, river water, ground water, tap water or mineral drinking water by utilizing 3 components of luciferin, luciferase and ATP or 4 components of these components plus a metal salt, out of components necessary for bioluminescence in fireflies.

Abstract: An artificial leather sheet substrate comprising: a fiber entangled nonwoven fabric composed of bundles of a polyamide-based microfine fibers comprising a polyamide or a polyamide composition having a hot toluene swelling degree of 2 to 10%, and having a fineness of 0.1 decitex or less; and an elastic polymer and a releasing agent between the bundles, the releasing agent being also added to the inside of the bundles. This leather-like sheet substrate is soft and is excellent in denseness, dyeability and color fastness. The sheet is suitable, as a suede-like artificial leather or a grain surface like artificial leather, for fields for which high quality is required, for example, for clothing. The sheet is high in denseness of surface napped fiber and is excellent in hand touch, writing effect and draping ability, especially as a suede-like artificial leather.

Abstract: A decorative composite stone material, the finished face of which is more durable and requires less maintenance than previous composite stone products. The decorative component of the aggregate material is specifically limited to a hard aggregate of enhanced aesthetic appeal, specifically, to granules of quartz or other transparent or semi-transparent material having a Mohs index of at least 7, naturally occurring or synthetic. The granules of quartz are adjustably coated with a metallic, ceramic, plastic or other film, mixed with a binder, cast, and cured. In the surface finishing step, granules close to the surface are ground to create an exposed facet through which light passes in and out, the coating providing reflective properties that add color, sparkle, glitter, metallic or other visual effect to the hard composite stone surface without compromising the hardness and durability of the product.

Abstract: Cellulose-polymer composites characterized by the cellulose component being thoroughly encapsulated by the polymer component, varying density which allows high strength over a wide range of temperatures and generally low weight are provided. Composites may be extruded or coextruded into a variety of products including wood-like decking materials with natural wood coloring and texture. Processes related to the manufacture of the composites are also provided.

Abstract: An artificial marble having appearance remarkably resembling that of a natural stone in which particles (X) containing a vinyl polymer (A) and mica flake (B) and/or a glass flake (C) are dispersed in a matrix (Y) containing a vinyl polymer (E); a mica flake- and/or glass flake-containing cured resin article which is useful as this particle (X); and a mica flake- and/or glass flake-containing polymerizable composition useful for production of the cured resin article.

Abstract: A reusable, fluid-swellable absorbent composition is disclosed. The composition generally includes a superabsorbent polymer, a gum, a film-forming resin and gelatin. The composition may further include a colorant and/or reflective particles, and it is particularly well-suited for use with amusement devices, such as for use by children. The device includes at least one sample of the invented composition, preferably including colorant and/or glitter, a volume of water and a structure including a base and a closed perimeter extending outwardly from the base. The structure includes a plurality of discrete regions, and may collectively resemble an object, scene or other image. Then upon placement of a small quantity of the composition into a particular region and addition of water to the quantity, the composition swells, expands and generally conforms to the shape of the region.

Abstract: A method of making a porcelain flower includes the steps of extending a wire through an apertured finding, twisting the free ends of the wire, forming an amount of porcelain compound into a flat sheet, cutting the shape of a flower petal out of the flat sheet, and wrapping the flower petal around the twisted wires.

Abstract: Provided is an artificial stone molded product in which protrusions or embedded grooves for a figure or a pattern are provided integrally on or in a flat surface of a substrate, and a main composition comprises an aggregate of an inorganic material and a resin, characterized in that at least a part of the above-mentioned protrusions or embedded grooves are luminous or fluorescent, light-emitting portions which contain a luminous or fluorescent material having a luminescence or a luminousness accompanied by ultraviolet absorption and an aggregate of a transparent inorganic material, or an aggregate of a transparent inorganic material having a surface baked with the above-mentioned luminous or fluorescent material as at least a part of the aggregate of the inorganic material.

Abstract: A furan polymer impregnated wood which comprises wood impregnated with a polymerizable furfural alcohol monomer solution containing at least water, stabilizers, and furfuryl alcohol, and at least one further compound selected from the group consisting of anhydrides, acids and combinations thereof is described.

Abstract: The present invention has for its object to provide a molded article of a thermoplastic composite material which is not only durable with little discoloration or fading even on prolonged outdoor exposure and is very satisfactory in physical properties and appearance qualities inclusive of wood-like texture but also has high productivity and good economics.