Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for a self-deploying tree are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, a self-deploying tree system comprises a top tree assembly, a main tree assembly, and a base. The lower end of the top tree assembly may be coupled to the upper end of the main tree assembly, and the lower end of the main tree assembly may be coupled to the base, providing a vertical orientation of the self-deploying tree system. The self-deploying tree system further comprises a deployment mechanism which may be activated to automatically convert the tree from a collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration or from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration. The collapsed configuration comprises a reduced height and a reduced circumference to allow for ease of handling and storage. The deployed configuration provides for the tree to be extended to a desired height and for deployment of the limbs as desired for display.

Abstract: Decorative systems that include an elongated decorative element and associated methods of manufacture and use are described. An example decorative system has a frame and an elongated decorative element attached to the frame. The frame has a first end, a second end, a length, and a main body that defines a slot and a central passageway. The slot provides access to the central passageway. The frame is moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration. The slot has a first width when the frame is in the first configuration and a second width when the frame is in the second configuration. The second width is greater than the first width. The first elongated decorative element has a first end, a second end, and a length. The length of the first elongated decorative element is greater than the length of the frame.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree includes a central trunk broken into at least two separate portions including a fixed trunk portion and at least one rotating trunk portion. The fixed trunk extends up from an underlying base. Rotating trunks rotatably attach at midpoints thereof at least indirectly to an upper end of the fixed trunk. Limbs are pivotably attached to the rotating trunks with optional lights coupled thereto. These limbs pivot between a perpendicular orientation extending from the rotating trunks and a collapsed configuration closer to a centerline of the rotating trunks. The rotating trunks can be pivoted from a first collapsed configuration with a first end above a second end to a deployed configuration with the second end above the first end. During pivoting, the limbs attached to the rotating trunk transition between a collapsed to a deployed configuration automatically. A wheeled base and cover further facilitate storage and deployment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a building piece toy including a first container comprising a first cavity with a first opening, a second container comprising a second cavity with a second opening, and a flexible belt connecting said two containers. The container is tapered monotonously in all dimensions from the opening to the rest of the container's body. Many of the building pieces are interlockable to each other, so a player can create toys with a shape of human, animal, or plant such as lobster, butterfly, peacock and chicken.

Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods may relate to an artificial tree apparatus having a plurality of branch segments hingedbly connected to a trunk segment and adapted to be releasably secured in a stowed position. In an illustrative example, the branch segments may be secured in the stowed position by cinching a control member. For example, each branch segment may include a control member guide having an aperture, wherein the control member may be routed through the apertures of the control member guides for a given layer of branch segments. As the control member is cinched, the branch segments may be hinged inwardly to the stowed position. In an exemplary embodiment, the control member may include a releasable securing apparatus for retaining the branch segments in the stowed position. Releasing the control member from the cinched position may permit the branch segments to freely hinge outwardly to a deployed position.

Abstract: A decorative light display used with a decorative string of lights comprises an inner and an outer flexible circular-shaped substructure, the flexible substructures including a pair of interlocking notches allowing the substructures to be assembled together to form a generally spherically shaped framework; the substructures having inner and outer circumferences, wherein the notches are formed on the inner circumference of the outer flexible substructure and the outer circumference of the inner flexible substructure; further comprising a sinusoidal wave shape formed on the outer circumferences of the flexible substructures for securing the decorative string of lights in contact therewith.

Abstract: This invention provides a printed and die-cut, new, three-dimensional ornament, (in this case an octahedron), that can be mailed flat, that pops up into its final shape without assembly by the recipient when removed from the included flat envelope. Manufactured from paper card stock or other sheet material. There are three glue flaps forming four equally shaped triangles on the top and bottom portions of the ornament, joined by a center fold. Attached to hook-and-ball finding at each longitudinal end is an elastic or tensioner which recovers the size and shape of the ornament after it is extended to fold the ornament flat. Ornament returns to its final shape once released from sleeve. This item is used to communicate with recipient by means of a combination gift and greeting or promotional message or advertising through corporate branding of ornament and/or sleeve when combined with ornament.

Abstract: An umbrella Christmas tree comprising a slide ring, legs pivotably connected to the slide ring and branches rotationally connected to the legs is described. The tree is able to be transformed from a storage position into a continuum of display positions in one motion by sliding a slide ring along the tree trunk, while the legs extend outward increasing the in radius of the base of the tree. Likewise, the transition from a display position to a storage position is accomplished by moving the slide ring in the opposite direction along the tree trunk. These transitions resemble umbrella-like movement. The umbrella tree is pre-embellished with various decorations, including lights and other ornaments, as can be the components of the tree, obviating the need to decorate the tree after it has been set up. The one slide ring design simplifies assembly and disassembly and gives the umbrella tree a neater appearance.

Abstract: The invention relates to a layered structure comprising a first intermediate layer, said first intermediate layer comprising at least one element of group IVB, group VB or group VIB; a second intermediate layer deposited on top of said first intermediate layer, said second intermediate layer comprising a diamond-like nanocomposite composition; a diamond-like carbon layer deposited on top of said second intermediate layer. The invention further relates to the use of a substrate coated with such a layered structure for high shear and/or high impact applications and to a method to cover a substrate with such a layered structure.

Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree includes a central trunk broken into at least two separate portions including a fixed trunk portion and at least one rotating trunk portion. The fixed trunk extends up from an underlying base. Rotating trunks rotatably attach at midpoints thereof at least indirectly to an upper end of the fixed trunk. Limbs are pivotably attached to the rotating trunks with optional lights coupled thereto. These limbs pivot between a perpendicular orientation extending from the rotating trunks and a collapsed configuration closer to a centerline of the rotating trunks. The rotating trunks can be pivoted from a first collapsed configuration with a first end above a second end to a deployed configuration with the second end above the first end. During pivoting, the limbs attached to the rotating trunk transition between a collapsed to a deployed configuration automatically. A wheeled base and cover further facilitate storage and deployment.

Abstract: The artificial tree is collapsible by inverting a main trunk thereof to swap positions of a first end and second end. The limbs are pivotably attached to the main trunk so that they sag under force of gravity from a deployed more horizontally extending orientation to a collapsed more vertically extending orientation when the main trunk is inverted. A base is preferably provided which has wheels and static portions in contact with the ground for supporting the tree thereon. A riser extending up from the base is configured to have an end of the main trunk rest therein. A lock is also preferably provided to hold an end of the trunk within the riser of the base. A separate treetop portion is removably attachable to ends of the trunk to complete the tree when in a deployed configuration and for storage of the treetop when the tree is not collapsed.

Abstract: A semi-private partition or covering includes a collapsible structure having a plurality of uniform perforations formed therein. The plurality of uniform perforations can be configured in size, shape, and dimension to provide not only aesthetic but functional differences from one partition to the next. A manufacturer can make a partition by forming a collapsible structure, such as by bonding a plurality of elongate cells along a plurality of different horizontal seams. The manufacturer can then position a plurality of cutout apparatus about the structure and apply the cutout apparatus to create hollow perforations passing through the entire depth of the collapsible structure (e.g., when expanded). The partition can be mounted to a top or side support structure for any combination of vertical or horizontal expansion/contraction of the partition.

Abstract: A snap mobile is disclosed for advertising a product or event and includes a display card having a first printed surface and an oppositely aligned second surface. The display card has a width divided by at least five score lines into first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth panels, with the first and sixth panels having an equal width. The snap mobile contains no adhesive between the second, third, fourth and fifth panels. This lack of adhesive enables the snap mobile to be manipulated into three separate and distinct positions after the first panel is secured to the sixth panel.

Abstract: Disclosed is an adjuvant capable of imparting a hydrophilic or superhydrophilic function to various materials or interfaces. The hydrophilic adjuvant comprises: a composite metal oxide containing Si and at least one metal element selected from the group consisting of Ti(IV), Zr(IV), Sn(IV) and Al(III); and a hydrophilic group-containing organic compound physically or chemically bonded with the Ti(IV), Zr(IV), Sn(IV) or Al of the composite metal oxide.

Abstract: An improved three dimensional display such as a Holiday decoration having collapsible constructions having a shape memory internal frame. In one embodied form, the unique display includes a collapsible internal frame formed, in part, from metal wire imparted with suitable memory characteristics. Such metals are referred to as “shape memory alloys” (SMAs) because much metals “remember” their original shapes. Accordingly, the present invention uses a deformable internal metal frame supporting an outer sheath formed from suitable materials such as fabric, or plastic film for the skin of the inventive three dimensional displays.

Abstract: A decoration includes a main body. The main body forms an outer edge portion and an inner edge portion. The outer edge portion is formed around a periphery of the inner edge portion. The inner edge portion has at least two disconnected coil cutting lines. The cutting lines equidistantly wrap around to a center of the main body and connect with each other, for the main body separately forming adjacent corresponded first convolution and second convolution by the cutting lines. By means of the convolutions being respectively pulled out toward opposite sides of the outer edge portion along an axial direction for positioning, making the convolutions respectively form conical revolutions at opposite sides of the outer edge portion, achieving tri-dimensional decoration.

Abstract: A pop-up Christmas tree that is formed by translucent spandex printed fabric member, printed with a graphic of a real Christmas tree, wrapped into a cone shape. An electrically motorized power antenna assembly is located within the hollow trunk of the tree display. A plurality of supporting frames and cords are mounted inside the fabric cone shape. The antenna tip is attached to the internal apex of the fabric cone shape. The base of the cone shape is attached to the perimeter of a molded plastic tree base housing. When the user activates the power antenna via a remote control switch, the tree shape rises from its base housing to instantly form a realistic Christmas tree shape. The walls of the fabric cone shape include apertures that hold standard Christmas lights and hooks for ornaments.

Abstract: A gift wrapping package is provided which provides enhanced ornamentation and ease of wrapping of gifts for special events. The gift wrapping package includes a flat base and a dome-like cover which forms a central cavity. The dome-like cover is retractable and expandable. In a retracted condition, gifts can be placed within the central cavity. Thereafter, the cover can be closed by expanding and rotating the cover until the dome-like structure is formed. In a preferred embodiment, the gift wrapping package includes a hook or handle for enabling a person to carry a wrapped gift or to hang the gift wrapped package upon objects such as a Christmas tree.

Abstract: Gift Popup Decoration and Card and Method providing a popup decoration for a gift which is substantially flat for transport and storage and which expands into a three-dimensional decoration for a wrapped gift, and an aesthetically-coordinated “to-from” card detachable from the decoration for placement on the same wrapped gift.

Abstract: A balloon display comprised of at least one or at least two frameworks as specified in different embodiments. Each framework has apertures that circumscribe inflatable chambers. The inflatable chambers are arranged in at least one or at least two layers as specified in different embodiments. The inflatable chambers are secured in the apertures by any of a variety of means specified. Elements of the display may be arranged in a variety of relationships to one another as specified. Elements of the display are connected by any of a variety of means specified. The display is designed for viewing in any of a variety of directions specified in different embodiments.

Abstract: A decoration in a variety of shapes and including a substantially flat main body and a string. The main body has a plurality of extensions extending from a base portion. Each extension has an aperture therethrough at its free end. The string passes through each aperture in a same direction. The extensions are foldable such that the ends with the apertures are stacked and the string passes through the apertures in a line. Accordingly, the decoration forms a curved surface. Two edges of the main body can be attached to form a closed loop structure. The extensions may extend from both ends of the base portion to form fully enclosed surfaces, for example a sphere.

Abstract: Collapsible piñata devices and methods to manufacture collapsible piñata devices are provided. According to some embodiments of the present invention, a piñata can comprise an exterior shell and one or more internal support frame members. The internal frame members can support the exterior shell when the exterior shell is fully expanded in an uncollapsed position to form a piñata. The internal frame members can also support the exterior shell during transition from expanded to collapsed position and from collapsed to expanded position. The piñata can also be collapsed into a state for storage, travel, and to preserve the exterior appearance of the piñata. Other embodiments are also claimed and described.

Abstract: A rotating inflatable ornament has a main chamber, a bottom chamber, a blower, a rotating chamber, a rotating device and a joint tube. The bottom chamber is attached to the main chamber. The blower is mounted in the bottom chamber and fills the bottom chamber with air. The rotating chamber is mounted in the main chamber and has a main air tube and multiple inflatable adornments. The main air tube communicates with the bottom chamber. The rotating device is attached rotatably to the main chamber. The joint tube has an outer tube, an inner tube and a motor. The outer tube is attached to the bottom chamber. The inner tube is mounted rotatably in the outer tube and is attached to the main air tube. The motor rotates the rotating chamber to give a lively impression.

Abstract: Collapsible piñata devices and methods to manufacture collapsible piñata devices are provided. According to some embodiments of the present invention, a piñata can comprise an exterior layer, a plurality of internal support frame members, and a support for carrying at least a portion of the exterior layer. The internal frame members can support the exterior layer when the exterior layer is fully expanded in an uncollapsed position to form a piñata. The piñata can also be collapsed into a state for storage, travel, and to preserve the exterior appearance of the piñata. Other embodiments are also claimed and described.

Abstract: A novel decorative structure includes a length of strand material, having a plurality of individual strands twisted with respect to one another and fixed with respect to one another near a first end of the strands, a twisting member having a plurality of apertures formed therein, each adapted to receive a respective one of the individual strands therethrough, and an anchoring member adapted to support the decorative structure on a support surface. In a particular embodiment the twisting member is a disc, such that when the twisting member is advanced from a second end of the strands to the first end, the strand material is caused to unwind. Similarly, when the twisting member is advanced from the first end to the second end of the strands, the strand material is caused to wind up. When unwound, the strands can support a container within the unwound ends of the strand material.

Abstract: A human-shaped adornment includes a supporting holder, which comprising a base and a supporting component; and a spiraled frame having a same axis with the supporting component. The spiraled frame includes a plurality of rings, which outline along its axis direction is a curve which is constituted by three arcs smoothly connecting with each other in a predetermined sequence; wherein the center of the three arcs are on a same line and their diameters gradually increase from top to bottom; the spiraled frame connecting with the supporting component through a connector having a plurality of connecting strings connected therewith for keeping the space between every two rings of the spiraled frame; wherein the connecting strings sequentially connects with each ring of the spiraled frame from top to bottom.

Abstract: A rotating inflatable ornament has a main chamber, a bottom chamber, a rotating chamber, a rotating device, a joint tube and a blower. The bottom chamber is attached to a bottom of the main chamber. The rotating chamber is mounted in the main chamber and has a main air-entering tube, multiple jet tubes and multiple inflatable adornments. The main air-entering tube communicates with the bottom chamber. The rotating device is attached rotatably to the main chamber. The joint tube is attached to the main air-entering tube and is mounted rotatably in the bottom chamber. The blower is mounted in the bottom chamber and fills air into the bottom chamber. The air coming out of the jet tubes makes the rotating chamber rotate.

Abstract: A gift wrapping package is provided which furnishes enhanced ornamentation and ease of wrapping of gifts for special events. The gift wrapping package includes a housing which is retractable and expandable for forming a central cavity. In a retracted condition, gifts can be placed within the central cavity. Thereafter, the housing can be closed by expanding and rotating the housing's body portion 360 degrees until an enclosed structure is formed. In preferred embodiments, the gift wrapping package includes various ornaments and features including fanciful appendages. In addition, the gift wrapping package may include a hook or handle or other construction for enabling persons to carry a wrapped gift or to hang the gift wrapped package upon objects, such as a holiday tree.

Abstract: An expandable tree-shaped device is formed from a sheet of material which includes a central apex and a plurality of spaced apart spiral strips extending therefrom, with the spiral strips being substantially coaxial to the central apex and to one another. The central apex and the spiral strips, in the operative position, are positioned in a vertically spaced, tiered array, with the central apex at an uppermost position such that the tiered array is configured to have a generally conical tree-shape. A plurality of connecting segments join each spiral strip or tier of the array to a next adjacent spiral strip or tier of the array to form a unitary structure. The width of each spiral strip increases proportionately with the increase in radial distance from the central point.

Abstract: A three-dimensional, hanging decoration comprised of a connecting portion and at least one spiraling portion. The device transformed from a flat, lightweight sheet of flexible material (for easy shipping, storage and sale) into a three-dimensional, fanciful, eye-catching and air-current movable party decoration. The visual look and feel of the hanging decoration is that of a spent, thrown or unwound serpentine or party streamer. The three-dimensional hanging decoration may be provided with decorative ornaments which hang downwardly from various points along the connecting portion and/or the spiraling portion. When laid on a flat surface (for shipping and storage), the three-dimensional hanging decoration consumes a minimum of space in that it rests substantially flat.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a Christmas tree with foldable branches, which includes a trunk and several sets of the branches, wherein a connector and a cap are mounted on the trunk. The branches are connected with the connector and are capable of being folded near to the trunk for decreasing the volume of the tree. So the tree can be stored or moved easily with being disassembled.

Abstract: A novel decorative structure includes a length of strand material, having a plurality of individual strands twisted with respect to one another and fixed with respect to one another near a first end of the strands, and a twisting member having a plurality of apertures formed therein, each adapted to receive a respective one of the individual strands therethrough. In a particular embodiment the twisting member is a disc, such that when the twisting member is advanced from a second end of the strands to the first end, the strand material is caused to unwind. Similarly, when the twisting member is advanced from the first end to the second end of the strands, the strand material is caused to wind up. When unwound, the strands retain a decorative helical shape, and give the appearance of a Christmas tree.

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 three-dimensional ornamental device adapted for rotation about an axis to produce a changing perspective that creates an interesting visual effect includes a series of angularly spaced apart strips, each strip having opposite ends and a length corresponding to the curvilinear distance along the strip between the opposite ends of the strip, wherein each strip is connected at one end to a first spine and connected at an opposite end to a second spine. The device can be made by cutting a sheet of material into a desired geometric shape, making cuts into the sheet material to form a series of disconnected adjacent strips, and bending the strips from a reference plane so that the strips are angularly spaced apart from each other.

Abstract: A foldable ornament frame structure of the invention includes a first movable part, a second movable part, and a plurality of support rods. The first and second movable parts are respectively mounted at a top and a bottom of the ornament frame structure. The support rods connect the first movable part to the second movable part around the ornament frame to outline the ornamental shape of the ornament frame. The first and second movable parts respectively include a plurality of strips that are superposed and cross over one another at approximately respective central portions thereof. A hinge passes through the central portions to pivotally connect the strips together, the support rods connecting the strips of the first and second movable parts to outline the ornamental shape of the ornament frame.

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 decorative article includes a plurality of members hingedly connected to one another and movable between a folded storage position and an unfolded display position. Each of the members includes a top surface, a bottom surface, and first and second sides. A hinge interconnects adjacent members between respective first and second sides. Ones of the top surfaces overlay each other and ones of the bottom surfaces overlay each other in the article folded storage position, such that in the article folded storage position, the article has a height equal to the sum of the heights of the members, and in the article unfolded display position, the article has a height equal to the height of one of the members and wherein the members are arranged in a circular pattern.

Abstract: A hot melt adhesive polyolefin composition having a viscosity from 7,000 to less than 500,000 mPa·sec, at 190° C. including (by weight): I) 5-85% of a crystalline propylene polymer selected from a propylene homopolymer and a copolymer of propylene and ethylene or a C4-C10 &agr;-olefin or blends thereof, having an isotactic index from 80 to 98%; II) 5-85% of an heterophasic polyolefin composition including: (i) a crystalline propylene polymer and (ii) and an amorphous copolymer of ethylene and propylene or a C4-C10 &agr;-olefin or blends thereof, containing less than 40% of ethylene; III) 10-75% of a material selected from aliphatic hydrocarbon resins, terpene/phenolic resin, polyterpenes, rosin, rosin esters and blends thereof; and optionally IV) a mineral paraffinic or naphthalenic oil, an amorphous poly(&agr;-olefin) having low molecular weight or a mixture thereof.

Abstract: An animated light sculpture framework is configured for enabling the framework to be quickly and easily unfolded and erected for use and to be quickly and easily folded together into a compact configuration for transport and/or storage. A head and neck portion of the light sculpture framework is vertically movable in an oscillating manner to simulate natural movement by use of a motor connected to the framework and a counterweight operably positioned between the head and neck portion and the motor.

Abstract: A processing technique and a composition which allow compositions of PBT polymers or copolymers to be formed into blow molded articles, especially medical balloons such as dilatation or stent placement balloons, from extruded tubular parisons. The process includes a longitudinal stretch step run at a temperature below the Tg of the polymeric material and a radial expansion step run at a temperature above the Tg of the polymeric material. During the longitudinal stretch step, the tubing is subjected to high internal pressure. In the composition a small amount of boric acid is added to the polybutylene terephthalate in a melt blend to give a formulation which has reduced crystallinity after extrusion and which can more readily fashioned into high strength blow molded articles than PBT by itself. Articles, which may be formed using the invention include medical device balloon articles in which the polymer consists essentially of PBT optionally blended with boric acid.

Abstract: A quartz glass jig having large irregularities on the surface thereof, wherein said irregularities have a center line roughness Ra in the range of from 2 to 30 &mgr;m, a maximum height Rmax in the range of from 10 to 150 &mgr;m, and a width in the range of from 10 to 500 &mgr;m, and by a method which comprises forming an inorganic thin film on the surface of a quartz glass jig free from microcracks and having fine irregularities on the surface thereof and thereafter rinsing it a plurality of times.

Abstract: Artificial icicles, artificial Christmas trees, garlands, ribbons and the like composed of non-flammable polypropylene film.

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 decorative folding star is made of star pieces, preferably straight strips and/or strips with ends bent to an angle, such as 36°. One end of each strip is fastened to the corresponding end of an adjoining strip. When all the star pieces are end-coupled, they form a topological loop. The structure is reinforced with extra fasteners at the crossing points. When these reinforcements and also one of the end fasteners are removed, the pieces can fold about the pivots of the remaining end fasteners and the star collapses for shipment or storage. The ends may be offset to provide clearance and aid in folding. The end fastener may be shaped to permit rotation only in the direction toward the collapsed position of the star. Lights or light holders may be mounted on the strips.

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: An improved joint socket structure used in artificial Christmas trees has enhanced safety, avoiding electrical wires from being squeezed and damaged by rotary branches. The main improvement is an arcuate shield disposed on each pivotal joint socket that connects the branches to the main trunk. The shield covers the space above the joint socket so that electrical wires wound around the Christmas trees will not get into the movement space of rotary branches. By way of this, the joint socket structure according to the invention can prevent electrical current leakage and electrical shocks caused by broken electrical wires.

Abstract: A construction diagram affixed to a construction paper, for constructing a three-dimensional figure out of paper, or out of any other printable foldable surface, according to the principles of origami and papercraft. The construction diagram includes an image matrix and fold lines. The image matrix indicates what areas of the paper will be visible when the three-dimensional figure is constructed according to the construction diagram and the principles of origami, and the fold lines indicate how to fold the paper. Some of the fold lines may be truncated, depending on the shape of the paper used, compared to how long the fold lines would be if the paper were of a standard shape for the particular three-dimensional figure to be constructed. The result is a three-dimensional figure that is as large as could be constructed from the paper used.

Abstract: According to the present invention, an artificial tree is provided which includes a tree element having a central generally disc-shaped member and a plurality of generally annular rings concentric to the central disc-shaped member and to one another such that the central disc-shaped member and the rings, in the operative position, are positioned in a vertically spaced, tiered array, with the central disc-shaped member at an uppermost position such that the tiered array is configured to have a tree-shape. A plurality of connecting strips connect each tier of the array to a next adjacent tier of the array. The disc-shaped member, the concentric rings, and the connecting strips may be formed from a unitary sheet of material, and the disc-shaped member and the concentric rings may be formed by providing a plurality of discontinuous generally spiral slits in the sheet of material.

Abstract: A method for making a honeycomb carrier body and product formed thereby in which a corrugated foil strip is provided having opposite side edges and corrugations oriented at an oblique angle to the side edges. The corrugated foil strip is folded on lines perpendicular to the side edges to provide a core body having fluid passages between opposite ends and a shaped periphery defined by parallel outside folds in the corrugated strip. The core body thus formed is inserted into a jacket tube so that folds at the core body periphery are in compressive contact with the jacket tube, and the periphery of the core body is joined to the jacket tube. Preferably, the corrugated foil strip is coated before the folding step, such as with an oxide layer, a catalytic coating or both, prior to the folding step.

Abstract: An ornament includes a collapsible housing constructed preferably of polyvinyl chloride and provided with an air valve allowing of selective inflation and deflation of the housing. Contained within the interior of the housing is a tethered figurine, along with a measured amount of particulate material simulating snowflakes. By employing foamed polystyrene as the particulate material, a composition is utilized which exhibits a natural affinity towards clinging to the inner wall of the housing. Upon inflation of the housing, which includes a hanger formation at its top, the figurine is displayed as a freely suspended member within the housing while the particles of foamed polystyrene are attracted to and cling to the wall of the housing in a scattered or random manner. The material of the housing may be transparent or alternatively, be translucent with a slight degree of opacity.