Abstract: A small mammal taxidermy form with detachable locking legs of the type that is comprised of a male post (14) and a female receptive lock (16).

Abstract: A three-dimensional hanging ornament transformed from a flexible sheet printed with various patterns, which includes a body portion and at least one ornamental portion. At least one multiple connecting strip is connected with the body portion at a lower end thereof and connected with the ornamental portion at an upper end thereof. A perforated line is defined around outer edges of the body portion, the ornamental portion and the connecting strip, whereby the ornamental portion and the connecting strip, or the ornamental portion, the connecting strip and the body portion can be separated either partly or wholly from the sheet. When the hanging ornament is hung in various statuses, the ornamental portion is suspended and streamed in the air, in such a way the sheet with patterns is transformed into a three-dimensional hanging ornament.

Abstract: A door or other entryway component of synthetic resin composite construction and closely resembling the appearance of stained real wood. Skin portions of doors and other structures have a surface layer of clear gel coat resin molded to include the texture of a wood grain surface. A subsurface layer adjacent the clear gel coat layer is of pigmented gel coat resin. A structural support layer of the skin is of reinforced resin. Skins of a door or similar article are mounted on frames, and dense micro porous resin foam is provided between the skins to form a solid structure such as a door. Moldings retaining glass panels in openings defined in the door or similar structure are attached to the skins by adhesively fastening the moldings to the skins. Fasteners mounted in the moldings so that there are no plugged holes in the exterior surfaces of the moldings are used to locate the moldings properly with respect to the skins by inserting the fasteners into predrilled holes in the skins.

Abstract: FIG.

Abstract: A decorative device includes a supporting release layer, a flexible backing layer, an adhesive layer on the backing layer, the adhesive layer being covered by the release layer such that the backing layer is removable from the release layer to expose the adhesive layer on the backing layer, and a decorative layer disposed on a surface of the flexible backing layer opposite to the adhesive layer. A decorative article is printed on the decorative layer, the decorative article having a pair of wings, with a cut extending peripherally about the decorative article and penetrating through the decorative layer and the flexible backing layer, but not through the supporting release layer, the cut defining a decorative element which includes the wings. A strip of adhesive located between the wings adheres the decorative layer to the flexible backing layer, and enables the wings to be folded to stand out from the backing layer.

Abstract: A decorative emblem with an enhanced depth of vision is provided. The decorative emblem comprises a decorative substrate, at least one layer of transparent plastic material formed on the top surface of the decorative substrate, and image or design printed on the substantially flat surface of the layer of plastic material, and a transparent plastic overlay flow coated over the image or design, the transparent plastic overlay has radiused edges to give an enhanced depth of vision to the decorative emblem by creating a lens effect and providing a floating appearance to the image or design.

Abstract: An artificial snow tile system made up of one or more artificial snow tiles, which are optionally backlightable and wind-resistant, for affixing to a surface; an artificial snow tile having a rough surface having a dull white luster to resemble one or more layers of fallen snow, and at least two edges that are opposite each other and mirror images of each other, such that an edge may be lined up with a respective opposite edge of another tile so as to create a smooth continuous snow drift appearance without visible gaps between the edges.

Abstract: The invention relates to a continuous process for obtaining a thread or strand, made of a plastic or textile material for manufacturing special fabrics, particularly artificial grass, comprising extrusion of a plastic material to obtain a given strand or flat thread and a helicoidal winding section. The extrusion and winding sections operate synchronically.

Abstract: The present invention provides molded fireplace articles comprising a plurality of non-white inorganic fibers that are substantially uniformly coated with a colored metal oxide. The present invention further provides a method of manufacturing molded fireplace articles comprising: providing a plurality of non-white inorganic fibers; mixing the fibers with a binder and a liquid to form a slurry; pouring the slurry into a mold having a desired shape; and forming the slurry into a shaped article. A method of preparing non-white inorganic fibers is also provided, the method comprising the steps of: providing a colorant solution formed by dispersing or dissolving a metal compound into a carrier liquid, providing an inorganic fiber, applying the colorant solution to the inorganic fiber to form a colorant coated fiber, and heating the colorant coated fiber to a temperature sufficient to decompose the metal compound to a non-white metal oxide that is substantially uniformly coated on said fibers.

Abstract: A pattern for camouflage and a method for making the pattern. Rely on photographic images arranged in a synthetic perspective relationship, appearing to extend toward the horizon. The photographic images are images of landscape features in a selected environment. The pattern blends in with landscape features both in proximity to and distant from the camouflage pattern. In one embodiment, the pattern is adapted to be seamlessly repeatable across a surface. In one or two dimensions the method for making the camouflage includes taking photographs and selecting photographic images that represent the landscape features in the selected environment. The method also includes separating those images and arranging them into a repeating pattern. Photographic images are arranged in synthetic perspective which includes obscuring background images with foreground images in a manner that simulates the perspective in the selected environment.

Abstract: An organic shell inlay blank is provided including a first layer of organic shell matter having two opposed surfaces defining a first thickness therebetween rendering the first layer flexible, a second layer of organic shell matter having two opposed surfaces defining a second thickness therebetween rendering the second layer flexible. One of the surfaces of the first layer substantially overlaps and is secured to one of the surfaces of the second layer. A bonding agent secures the layers together to form the inlay blank. A method for manufacturing an organic shell inlay blank is also disclosed and includes the steps of cutting a plurality of flexible pieces of organic shell matter from an organic shell, stacking the pieces in a substantially overlapping relationship with a bonding agent between the pieces, and urging the pieces together while the bonding agent cures to form the inlay blank.

Abstract: The present invention is a component having a synthetic wood layer that is secured to a foamed polymer layer. The foamed polymer layer is comprised of a polymer selected from the group consisting of high density polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, low density polyethylene, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, ethyl-vinyl acetate, and polystyrene. The component can be used for a variety of different purposes such as fencing, furniture, cabinets, storage devices, lawn edging, flower boxes, flooring, roofing, wall covering, building siding, basement flooring, basement wall covering, interior and exterior decorative house moldings, crown moldings, chair rails, picture frames, porch decks, deck railings, window moldings, window components, door components, door moldings, various other lawn and garden uses, various other below grade uses, and various other indoor and outdoor uses.

Abstract: A fabric having plant material adhered between layers of silk or hand-made paper. The silk or paper layers are translucent to allow the fabric to have the appearance of plant material. The fabric is manufactured by soaking dry plant material in water, pressing and drying the plant material to flatten it, adhering bottom and top layers of silk or paper to the plant material, and applying a stiffening agent to the fabric. Articles of various shapes may be formed by shaping the fabric into a predetermined shape prior to the step of applying the stiffening material.

Abstract: The following artificial stone having a deep color tone and a glaze and having a luminousness is provided at low costs.

Abstract: A visual effect, such as a granite-look, is produced in a thermoplastic product by directly applying a sufficient amount of at least one color-containing thermoplastic resin system to the surface of an extruded sheet of a thermoplastic resin. The color-containing thermoplastic resin system is applied onto the extruded sheet after it emerges from the die and prior to it entering the rollstack.

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: In accordance with the present invention, there are provided methods for enhancing the color of minerals useful as gemstones. Invention methods are relatively inexpensive to carry out, avoid the use of hazardous materials, and require no specialized equipment.

Abstract: An artificial stone veneer product has a thin substrate covered by a stone veneer having a pitted, uneven surface having an appearance similar to travertine. To make the product, layers of polymer resin and particulate matter are applied to a substrate. A thin layer of polymer resin is first applied to the substrate, followed by a layer of fine particulate matter that at least partially settles into the resin, and the resin is allowed to set partially. Another layer of polymer resin is applied to the underlying layers in a manner that only partially covers the underlying layers. A final layer of particulate matter is then spread over the polymer layer, and the resin is allowed to set completely. In an optional step, the surface of the final product is finished to smooth it, during which some of the larger particulate matter is dislodged and removed, enhancing the uneven rough appearance of the veneer.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for removal of VOCs from wood products prior to drying the wood products. The method of the invention includes the steps of providing a chamber having an opening for receiving wood and loading the chamber with green wood. The wood is loaded to an extent sufficient to provide a limited headspace in the chamber. The chamber is then closed and the wood is heated in the chamber for a time and at a temperature sufficient to saturate the headspace with moisture and to substantially transfer VOCs from the wood product to the moisture in the headspace.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a simulated fireplace formed, at least partially, from a compressible material, and to a method of forming a simulated fireplace from a compressible material that has a surface that simulates surfaces found in real fireplaces. In particular, this invention forms a simulated fireplace using a compressible material, such as wood, wood composites, or plastics. A pattern is pressed into a surface of the compressible material forming a sculptured surface. The surface is also coated. In one embodiment of the invention the surface is coated with a solvent based coating, for example, a sealer, a primer, and a finish that can include color and/or gloss. In another embodiment of the invention the surface is coated with a powder coating, such as a low temperature epoxy. In yet a further alternative the surface is coated with a polymer film.

Abstract: A pattern for camouflage and a method for making the pattern. Rely on photographic images arranged in a synthetic perspective relationship, appearing to extend toward the horizon. The photographic images are images of landscape features in a selected environment. The pattern blends in with landscape features both in proximity to and distant from the camouflage pattern. In one embodiment, the pattern is adapted to be seamlessly repeatable across a surface. In one or two dimensions the method for making the camouflage includes taking photographs and selecting photographic images that represent the landscape features in the selected environment. The method also includes separating those images and arranging them into a repeating pattern. Photographic images are arranged in synthetic perspective which includes obscuring background images with foreground images in a manner that simulates the perspective in the selected environment.

Abstract: Flexible polymeric materials having a cloth-like appearance suitable for use in the formation of flower pot covers, floral wrappings and ribbon materials are disclosed.

Abstract: A decorative preformed flower pot cover formed of at least one sheet of polymeric material has a base and a decorative border and is provided with at least a portion of one surface thereof having a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance of paper. The texture or appearance simulating paper provides a decorative appearance to the decorative preformed flower pot cover, while the decorative preformed flower pot cover maintains the mechanical and structural characteristics of the sheet of polymeric material.

Abstract: A decorative polymeric ribbon material produced by cutting a sheet or web of flexible material into strips of decorative polymeric ribbon material such that the decorative polymeric ribbon material can be wrapped about items and formed into bows and decorative ornamentations containing ruffles, loops and curved segments. The decorative polymeric ribbon material can be a polymeric material or a laminated polymeric material having at least a portion of one surface thereof modified to provide a texture or appearance simulating the texture or appearance of paper while maintaining the structural and mechanical characteristics of the polymeric material from which the decorative polymeric ribbon material is formed.

Abstract: Vibrantly colored stones for use as decorative landscape elements are disclosed. The invention includes a process, including coating formulations, apparatus, and a method for preparing and applying specific acrylic-based color coatings to river rocks, stones, and the like thereby resulting in brightly colored decorative stones suitable for use in landscaping. End use stabilizers prevent color degradation, while the addition of faceted grains of mineral material enhance visual appearance. Colored stones produced according to the process herein are durable, colorfast, non-toxic, mildew resistant, algae resistant and otherwise environmentally safe. The stones may be used as decorative elements in a wide variety of landscape settings.

Abstract: Unique designs are associated with articles of personal use, such as hairbrushes, hand mirrors, jewelry and the like. The unique designs include creating unusual three-dimensional faces on the articles to associate characters with the articles. The characters are given names and storylines to create unique identities for the articles.

Abstract: An applique for garments is provided having multiple layers, and a decoratively shaped perimeter and relief pattern having a relatively high profile and side wall being substantially perpendicular to the plain in which the raised and lowered portions lie. Methods for manufacturing are also provided.

Abstract: A novel method of advertising in appropriate bound or unbound publications wherein the pages of the publication are folded in half and may be bound along one edge by either saddle-stitching or perfect-binding the pages at the center of the publication together, wherein a carrier member formed of a folded member that is appropriately bound into the publication and has at least one adhesive strip or a plurality of adhesive spots positioned adjacent one edge for mounting a substantially thinner mouse pad thereon for ease of removal and subsequent use. The mouse pad is formed of a thin generally transparent plastic material and carries advertising printed on the undersurface of the pad, which advertising is viewed through the transparent pad; the mouse pad acting to insure that the publication will flip open at the position of the pad so that the viewer or reader will see the advertising early in the inspection of the publication.

Abstract: An article comprising wood can be preserved by applying to the wood an effective amount for the preservation of the wood of a polymeric phenol sulfide having a tri- or higher sulfide bridge therein, which can be a polymeric alkyl phenol sulfide, such as one containing an alkyl group containing from one to about four carbon atoms in the alkyl group contained therein of the following formula, where R is the alkyl group,: where R is alkyl, m is from 1 to 3, n ranges from about 2 to about 10, and x is 3 or higher.

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 tissues or bodily fluids. The present invention also provides a polyurethane elastomeric composition which includes a soft segment derived from about 60 to 98 wt % of at least one polysiloxane macrodiol and about 2 to 40 wt % of at least one polyether and/or polycarbonate macrodiol and processes for its preparation.

Abstract: A combination door stopper and mat is made with natural fibre twisted into fiber rods, and with pads and binding wire. The components are tied with binding wire to take the shape of a turtle having a shell and a belly, legs, head, tail and anti-skid pads or any other animal or inanimate object.

Abstract: Sets of tessellatable elements are disclosed, in which a relatively low number of different elements may be combined together to provide very attractive tessellating patterns. The elements may be in the form of tiles, for paving or for covering flooring or walls, for example, game pieces, including television and computer games, pieces for use in maze construction and for many other applications.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fragrant article that delivers fragrance over a period of time by an article comprising a polymer matrix, a fragrance and a decorative object. The decorative object is contained within a polymer matrix and in a preferred embodiment is the similar to the fragrance that is being released. The article is particularly well suited to be used as a room freshener, which because of its attractive appearance does not need to be hidden.

Abstract: An artificial turf that includes a first face yarn, a second face yarn, and a stitch-in yarn. The second face yarn is textured in some embodiments, for at least the reason of creating a zone such as a textured zone. A knot is formed by knitting the first face yarn, the second face yarn, and the stitch-in yarn together. A row of knots is also formed in this manner. A backing is formed when a lay-in yarn is extended between at least two rows of the knots and knitted to hold the at least two rows of knots together. A coating is coupled to the backing to prevent, among other things, detachment of the yarns after extended use of the artificial turf. An underlayment is positioned beneath the backing such that a stable base is provided for the artificial turf.

Abstract: An expandable three-dimensional display device is provided with a cover and a support post at least partially disposed within the cover. The display device includes a mechanism associated with the cover and support post that is operable alternately to expand the cover to an enlarged configuration about the post to provide a three-dimensional display and collapse the covers to a collapsed configuration. A light is mounted within the cover to illuminate it. Addition display structure is formed to be mounted on the upper end of the support post which projects through the cover and additionally to be secured to the cover in order to provide the assembled display with further texture and interest.

Abstract: A standable sticker is provided comprising an integral one-piece shape that is divided into a figure portion and a base portion. The base portion is adapted for permanent or removable adherence to a surface, and is coated on one side with a pressure sensitive adhesive. A perforated or scored line defines a boundary between the figure portion and base portion and the figure portion in foldable at an angle to the base portion at the perforated or scored line to permit the figure portion to be presented in a substantially vertical orientation. The sticker is adapted for releasable adhesion to liner material or substrate.

Abstract: A hollow decorative rock protects and provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance by covering utility implements or access covers. Hidden slots in the hollow rock provide for an air flow through the rock, when combined with the uneven bottom edge of the molded hollow rock.

Abstract: A practical joke device which when removably mounted onto a glass surface of user choice, will create an illusion that an object has penetrated into the glass surface and the glass has been shattered.

Abstract: A simple foldable greeting card wherein, upon opening, decorative display elements self-generate a 3-D effect.

Abstract: A semi-finished wood simulating product and method is disclosed. The product is manufactured by providing a substrate having at least one surface to be finished. A liquid basecoat is applied on the substrate and dried. A wood grain pattern is deposited, in liquid form, on the basecoat. Some of the pattern is transferred from the originally deposited position on the basecoat to a subsequent position. The pattern is then cured. A polymerizable protective coating is applied onto the substrate overlying the basecoat and the pattern. The protective coating seals the substrate and is adapted for accepting a colorant to be applied by an end user. The protective coating is then polymerized. Additionally, if a porous substrate is provided, a sealer is applied prior to the liquid basecoat and is then cured.

Abstract: A composite jewelry stone is provided. The composite jewelry stone includes a first half stone having a mating edge and an opposing apex and a second half stone having a mating edge and an opposing apex. A baguette having a first mating edge and a second, opposing mating edge is provided. The baguette is mounted between the first and second half stones such that the first half stone mating edge is in alignment with the first mating edge of the baguette and the second half stone mating edge is in alignment with the second mating edge of the baguette.

Abstract: A soft sculpted article includes a first substantially flat surface and a soft sculpted face affixed to the first substantially flat surface. The face includes at least a muzzle portion extending outwardly of the first substantially flat surface.

Abstract: A polymer surface in contact with a liquid crystal medium is exposed to polarized light, whereby a covalently bound anisotropic component of the polymer surface aligns in response to the polarized light. Alignment of the anisotropic component causes alignment of the liquid crystal medium. An interference pattern of two polarized lights causes the covalently bound anisotropic component to form microgrooves on the polymer surface. A liquid crystal cell includes at least one polymer surface that has a covalently bound anisotropic component that can align in response to polarized light and a liquid crystal in contact with the polymer surface.

Abstract: A method for providing a decorative cover for a floral grouping wherein the decorative cover is provided with a design indicia bearing portion which extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of the decorative cover. The decorative cover is formed from a sheet of material having a design indicia and an opening extending therethrough wherein the opening is offset from a central portion of the sheet of material in a direction generally away from the indicia bearing portion of the sheet of material. A lower portion of a stem end of a floral grouping is inserted through the opening in the sheet of material and the sheet of material is wrapped about the floral grouping to provide a decorative cover having a design indicia bearing portion which extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of the decorative cover.

Abstract: An ornament 2 is floated in a water tank 5 holding water. A water pump 3 draws up water from the water tank 5 through a filter 7. The water is led to the uppermost part of the ornamental segment of the ornament 2 through a conduit 4 returns to the water tank 5 by following a circulating course passing through a first reservoir 6a, a first channel 6b, a second reservoir 6c, a second channel 6d, a third reservoir 6e and a third channel 6f. This ornament having a water circulating course enhances the decorative effect of water tanks and ponds.

Abstract: A clear crystalline faceted substrate is provided with a coating of a colored transparent ink in order to enhance the appearance of the otherwise inexpensive gem stone. The ink is a permanent type ink made from n-propanol, n-butanol and diacetone alcohol which is soluble in a solution having a isopropyl alcohol 99% strength. Once the coating has been applied to a substrate such as a cubic zirconia to enhance the appearance of the gem stone, the coating can be removed by use of the solvent. A fresh coating of a different color may then be applied.

Abstract: A polymer laminate essentially consisting of at least two cholesteric, liquid-crystalline polymer layers and a light-absorbent layer in between is suitable as starting material for effect pigments having a color impression which is dependent on the viewing angle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for providing a decorative cover for a flower pot. The method includes the steps of (a) providing a sheet of material having a design indicia bearing portion and an opening adapted to receive a lower portion of a flower pot wherein the opening is offset from a central portion of the sheet of material in a direction generally away from the indicia bearing portion of the sheet of material; (b) disposing a lower portion of a flower pot in the opening in the sheet of material; and (c) forming the sheet of material into a decorative cover about the flower pot such that the indicia bearing portion of the decorative cover extends above the remainder of the decorative cover and thereby enhances the visual aesthetic effect of decorative cover.

Abstract: A simulated rock and a method of producing it, using Portland Cement, Bentonite or lime, polystyrene, and water. Ground polystyrene is mixed with cement, Bentonite or lime, and water, to form a settable cement formulation which is poured into removable forms. Reinforcing members are included in the mold, and a lifting hook is provided for later lifting and transporting of the resultant simulated rock. One or more base coats can be applied using a different formula, and a color coat can be applied. The method is use for making landscaping rocks, rock fountains, stone barbecues, light pillars, planters, room dividers, artificial masonry panels, and any structure which uses rocks or masonry.

Abstract: A three-dimensional soft sculpture wall adornment is made of a pliable and lightweight material. The wall adornment has a raised relief front surface and a back that is at least partially flat. The raised relief has a minimum total relief contrast that assures a three-dimensional visual quality. The raised relief also has a maximum projection. The back has a mounting element attached to the flat portion for securing the wall adornment to a wall.