Abstract: A planar floor covering is formed having a top face and a bottom face opposite the top face, a length, a width perpendicular to the length, a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, a height between the top surface and the bottom surface, and physical properties or characteristics that vary across at least one of the length, the width and the height. The physical properties or characteristics include material composition, weight, density, directionality, stiffness, compressibility, elasticity and thickness.

Abstract: A barrier system includes a substantially vertical structure with a coating layer disposed on and circumscribing a majority of the substantially vertical structure. The coating layer has a height of at least 0.25 inches, has gouge and scratch hardness of at least 2H, and has an average surface roughness (Ra) of less than 10 microns.

Abstract: An animal repelling device is disclosed that may include a first mounting bracket and a second mounting bracket, each of which includes an upper section and a lower section. The upper section may include a vertical tab, a notch formed in the vertical tab, and ribs coupled to opposing sides of the vertical tab. The lower section may include a foot coupled to a sidewall, the sidewall comprising a curved inner surface configured to mateably couple with a fence. A roller may be disposed between, be rotatably coupled to, and extend axially between, the first mounting bracket and the second mounting bracket, the roller comprising an aligner that biases the roller back to an initial at rest position. An attachment clip may be releasably coupled to the notch of the vertical tab.

Abstract: A bird repellent system includes a post assembly and a fastening assembly. The post assembly includes one or more posts that protrude from a base portion. A stabilizer extends perpendicularly from the base portion or from the fastening assembly and is configured to counter a torque or force acting on the post assembly.

Abstract: The bird-nesting prevention device is a mechanical structure. The bird-nesting prevention device is configured for use with a porch roof. The porch roof further comprises with a column. The column further comprises with a capital. The capital comprises the elements of the column that attach to the porch roof. The bird-nesting prevention device forms a barrier that prevents one or more birds from nesting on the capital of the column. The bird-nesting prevention device comprises a master prism structure and a bird's mouth cut. The bird's mouth cut is a negative space formed in the master prism structure. The bird's mouth cut attaches the master prism structure to the capital using a bird's mouth joint. The master prism structure forms a barrier that prevents the one or more birds from nesting on the capital of the column.

Abstract: A device for deterring avian pests includes first and second spikes, each having a terminal retention feature held within an injection molded base. The spikes are preferably arranged in a radial fashion, extending outward from the molded base.

Abstract: A system and method of controlling iguana infestation is provided. The system and method, being harmless to people and pets, can include a wall barrier, sea barrier, ground barrier, and climbing (tree, piling) barrier. The Iguana Sea Wall Barrier prevents iguanas from accessing property from the water. Iguana Piling Wraps can be included to prohibit access to the property via the dock. Iguana Tree Guards can be included to prevent iguanas from climbing up into trees.

Abstract: A scavenging animal deterring feeder assembly may include a feeder support stand including an elevated stand platform. A stand fence having a plurality of spaced-apart, upward-standing fence spikes may be carried by the stand platform. A feed-dispensing wildlife feeder may be carried by the stand platform of the feeder support stand and at least partially enclosed by the stand fence. A feeder retaining assembly may retain the feed-dispensing wildlife feeder on the stand platform.

Abstract: A bird deterrent and repellant device includes a pair of holding members adapted to attach to a surface, base members connecting the main holding members, and spike members protruding upwardly from the base members and extending laterally outwardly with respect to the main holding members for preventing birds from landing on areas adjacent to the device. The base members are pivotally connected to the pair of elongated main holding members at pivot points, which allows the base members to rotate about the pivots points to transition the device between a wide configuration and a narrow configuration. In the wide configuration, the extent at which the spike members extend laterally outwardly relative to the main holding members is maximized for covering larger areas. In the narrow configuration, the extent at which the spike members extend laterally outwardly relative to the holding members is decreased to create a more compact device.

Abstract: A scavenging animal deterring feeder assembly may include a feeder support stand having an elevated stand platform and a stand fence having a plurality of spaced-apart, upward-standing fence spikes carried by the stand platform. A feed-dispensing wildlife feeder may be supported by the stand platform of the feeder support stand and at least partially enclosed by the stand fence. Accordingly, the stand fence deters a wild hog or other scavenging animal from landing its front paws onto the stand platform and collapsing the stand platform in an attempt to access the animal feed in the wildlife feeder.

Abstract: A system and method for increasing friction between cables and surrounding soil is disclosed. In particular, a cable apparatus for use in a sub-surface protective network of intertwined cables is provided which comprises an elongate reinforced polymer cable body having a length. The cable apparatus also includes a plurality of elongate barbs provided along the length of the cable body. The barbs extend from the cable body to a respective free end in both a lengthwise direction and radially. Additionally, the barbs are spaced apart in one or more of the lengthwise direction along the length of the cable body and circumferentially about the cable body. Moreover, according to a further aspect, a plurality of such cables can be provided underground and intertwined to define a protective network cables for protecting buried assets.

Abstract: A modular pest deterrent kit is configured to mate with one or more types of pole tops. The modular pest deterrent kit comprises a spike having a first coupling member and a base having a second coupling member configured to mate with the first coupling member. The base is contemplated to have a first bottom surface. An alternative base is contemplated to have a third coupling member configured to mate with the first coupling member. The alternative base has a second bottom surface, which is differently shaped from the first bottom surface.

Abstract: Squirrels and other climbing vermin cause many millions of dollars damage and otherwise unnecessary maintenance annually to the national power grid and standalone assets. Among the negative effects is when the vermin unwittingly create a short out condition which may simply blow a fuse or trip a circuit out causing loss of service. The current invention utilizes spikes arranged to inhibit egress, rotating surface spines to create an unsteady grasp and a pivot arm having T bars presented for opportunistic climbers. However, as the vermin applies its body weight to the T bar the pivot arm rotates bringing claw spikes from behind the base spike array to create an apparent capture motion combined with the distal ends of the claw spikes giving a tactile tap to the body of the vermin. The Squirrel Creeper also incorporates a hotline clamp as a mounting means which allows installation and removal via a hotline stick.

Abstract: A bird deterrent device for preventing a bird from landing on an area to be protected such as, but not limited to, a marine vessel or boat. The bird deterrent device is easy to install and remove, does not require any new permanent mounting hardware to be installed, and easily adapts to the unique contours, structure, and components of the marine vessel or boat. The device includes a mesh net, integrated flexible cordage, and fasteners.

Abstract: A device for protecting an area against terrestrial gastropods includes at least one barrier that includes a base for securing the barrier to the periphery of the area to be protected, a ceiling wall connected to the base, a grid extending along and spaced apart from the ceiling wall, a space between the ceiling wall and the grid, and at least one blocking means for preventing the gastropods, of the size category targeted by the barrier, from crawling in the said space. Barriers targeting small gastropods can be integrated into barriers targeting large gastropods.

Abstract: The invention relates to a cooling panel assembly (2) for a wind turbine tower (1). It is arranged to be mounted on such a tower (1) on a section thereof as seen in the circumferential direction. The cooling panel assembly (2) includes at least one cooling panel (2a,2b). According to the invention, the cooling panel assembly (2) includes deflector means (6) mounted at the top of the at least one cooling panel (2a, 2b) such that the deflector means (6) shields the cooling panel assembly (2) from above. The deflector means (6) has substantially the same circumferential extension or more as the other parts of the cooling panel assembly (2). The invention also relates to a wind turbine tower (1) provided with at least one such cooling panel assembly (2).

Abstract: A connection means for building components is described. According to the invention, a connection means can be arranged opposite on the external surface of a building component, having a body, this body comprising a case and containing at least one filling material within said case, where said filling material is more elastic than the material forming said case, said case and said filling material being adapted to receive at least one through anchoring element which can be fixed to said building element.

Abstract: A method of protecting an exposed switch mounted on a structural frame in an electrical power transmission system, the switch having one or more insulators extended from the structural frame, first and second conductor connectors supported on the one or more insulators, and a blade connected to pivot to close and open an electrical path between the first and second conductor connectors, the method including mounting a barrier wall adjacent the switch and on the structural frame.

Abstract: A bird deterrent assembly for preventing a bird from defecating on a vehicle mirror includes a pair of clamps that may grip a mirror. A sensing unit is coupled between the clamps to detect when a bird has landed thereupon when the clamps are coupled to the mirror. The sensing unit disturbs the bird thereby preventing the bird from defecating on the mirror.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing modular bird control deterrent devices with spikes for use with overhead electrical wire are provided. A modular bird control segment base provides locking support for one or more bird control spikes by including locking flanges in a spike support cavity of the segment base that engages and locks a spike by engaging a groove in the bottom portion of the respective spike. The bird control segment base provides attachment support for fasteners that secure the bird control segment base to the electrical wire in use by providing opposing slot openings in a groove on the top of the segment base to engage a fastener. The bird control segment base also has opposing fastening mechanisms for connecting multiple segments together.

Abstract: The invention is an assembly for discouraging flying creatures from approaching and/or landing including a housing with a base, a shaft, a shaft mount, a spindle associated with the shaft, a means of turning the spindle, and an actuator.

Abstract: An animal deterrence system projects polarized light in order to deter animals. The light may be plane polarized light and the polarization may be varied over time. The system is particularly suited to deterrence of birds, but may also find application in deterrence of other animals sensitive to polarization of light, such as bees and wasps. The system may be used on vineyards or orchards, or around airports, or in any other place where birds are problematic.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an insecticide-containing polymeric material containing at least one embedded insecticidally active ingredient in the polymeric matrix and having excellent biological activity, and also to the products produced from this polymer and to their use for protecting humans, animals and plants against arthropods, particularly for controlling insects.

Abstract: Apparatus and methods are disclosed for bird deterrence proximate to a marine vessel. The apparatus includes a first support structure and a second support structure. The apparatus includes a first support member configured for height adjustment and a second support member configured for width adjustment. The apparatus includes a plurality of attachment posts with at least one attachment post mounted on the first support structure and at least one attachment post mounted the second support structure, a plurality of wires with at least one wire connected to and extending between the attachment post mounted on the first support structure and the attachment post mounted the second support structure, and at least one resilient member connected to at least one of the wires.

Abstract: An electrical substation is shown and described. The electrical substation has a plurality of substation components selected from a group consisting of circuit breakers, transformers, voltage regulators, switchgear, control houses, and structural members. Each of the plurality of substation components is supported above ground-level. An animal mitigation system surrounds each of the plurality of substation components. The animal mitigation system is a shroud constructed around a substation component or a portion of a substation component to provide a barrier to entry to an internal volume of the shroud in which the component or portion of the component is housed.

Abstract: A deterrent device can include an elongated base having a plurality of spikes coupled to the base that are configured to extend from the base such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base.

Abstract: A barrier for blocking access to an enclosed space so that wildlife cannot enter the space for either nesting or other habitation is disclosed. Plural resilient spikes extend outwardly in an array from a base. When the apparatus is inserted into a space, the spikes bend so that the tips engage the walls of the space to lodge the barrier in place and resist extraction. The spikes discourage wildlife from entering and nesting in the space.

Abstract: Methods of manufacturing an adjustable bird slope are described. A height of the face of the bird slope can be altered as necessary so that the bird slope can effectively fit almost any perching area.

Abstract: A window lighting system may include a frame (1071, 1171, 1271, 1471) defining a perimeter of a window (1070, 1170, 1270, 1470). The frame may have a hollow interior. A driver (30), which may be located within the hollow interior or external to the window lighting system, may be configured to drive one or more light sources (1076, 1176, 1276, 1486). A lens (46) may be disposed along the hollow interior to focus light emitted by the one or more light sources across a surface of the window or into an interior of a building.

Abstract: A barrier for blocking access to an enclosed space so that wildlife cannot enter the space for either nesting or other habitation is disclosed. Plural resilient spikes extend outwardly in an array from a base. When the apparatus is inserted into a space, the spikes bend so that the tips engage the walls of the space to lodge the barrier in place and resist extraction. The spikes discourage wildlife from entering and nesting in the space.

Abstract: A cover apparatus can cover an electrical insulator and an electrical conductor. The cover apparatus includes one or more leg sections for covering a portion of the electrical conductor. The cover apparatus includes a cover section coupled to the one or more leg sections and covering a portion of the electrical insulator. The cover section includes a body portion and an adjustable portion coupled to the body portion at a coupling location. The adjustable portion can be adjusted such that a dimension of the adjustable portion is adjusted according to a dimension of the electrical insulator. An example method of forming a cover apparatus for covering an electrical insulator and an electrical conductor is also provided.

Abstract: A cover apparatus can cover an electrical insulator and an electrical conductor. The cover apparatus includes a leg section that covers a portion of the electrical conductor. A cover section covers a portion of the electrical insulator. The cover section can include a body portion that is coupled to the leg section at a first coupling location. The cover section includes an adjustable portion coupled to the body portion at a second coupling location located on an opposite side of the body portion relative to the first coupling location. The adjustable portion can be adjusted such that a dimension of the adjustable portion is adjusted according to a dimension of the electrical insulator. A method of forming a cover apparatus for covering an electrical insulator and an electrical conductor is also provided.

Abstract: A cover apparatus is provided for covering an electrical insulator and a conductor. The cover apparatus includes a first cover portion extending along a first axis. The first cover portion includes a first segment covering a first portion of the electrical insulator and a second segment coupled to the first segment and covering a first portion of the conductor. The cover apparatus includes a second cover portion extending along a second axis. The second cover portion includes a third segment movably attached to the first segment and a fourth segment coupled to the third segment and covering a portion of the conductor. An example method of forming a cover apparatus for covering an electrical insulator and a conductor is also provided.

Abstract: A deterrent device can include an elongated base having upper and lower raised portions and a plurality of spikes coupled thereto. The spikes can each be configured to extend from the base such that such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base.

Abstract: A parapet protector is disclosed which generally discourages birds, small mammals, and other nuisance animals from the rooftops of buildings. The parapet protector includes a first insulator detachably attached to a surface of a building; a first suspension eye coupled to the first insulator, the first suspension eye extending outwardly from the first insulator in a direction that is perpendicular to a plane defined by the surface of the building; a first spring that is detachably attached to a distal end of the first suspension eye; a wire that that connects the first spring to a second spring located on a second suspension eye coupled to a second insulator; and an electrical input that is configured to electrify the wire.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device includes an elongated carrier having an internal cavity. A conductive trace can be coupled to the carrier by a first fastener that extends from the conductive trace to the cavity, which prevents water from contacting the fastener and shorting the conductive trace.

Abstract: A wildlife guard assembly for use with an electrical insulator body includes first and second guard members and an actuator member. The first and second guard members define a seat to receive the insulator body and are connected to one another to permit relative movement between an open position. The first and second guard members define a sideward opening to laterally receive the insulator body into the seat, and a closed position, wherein the first and second guard members at least partially encircle the insulator body to capture the insulator body in the seat. The actuator member is configured to be inserted between the first and second guard members in the open position and, when forcibly displaced radially to an installed position, to force the first and second guard members to move from the open position to the closed position.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting the migration of termites into a structure is provided including the steps of forming a band across exposed faces of external masonry walls of the structure wherein the band is disposed above ground level and includes, at least in part, a settable composition wherein in a set condition the settable composition is sealably engaged with a physical termite barrier, said physical termite barrier forming at least part of a termite barrier extending between a concrete slab of the structure and a mortar course in the external masonry walls.

Abstract: A device generates a light barrier that can be used for different purposes. The barrier consists of one or more surfaces (or volume) exhibiting an abrupt change in light intensity. In some embodiments the change in intensity affects animals, including insects, approaching or crossing it. In some embodiments, the light generates thermal or density variations in the air that cause air movements that perturb particles, such as pollen, or other pests to human activity. In some embodiments, an approach includes an optical barrier generator configured to emit light of an optical waveform above a threshold power in a portion of space positioned relative to the generator. The optical waveform above the threshold power is effective at perturbing a pest to human activity.

Abstract: A deterrent device can include an elongated base having a plurality of spikes coupled to the base that are configured to extend from the base such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base.

Abstract: A conventional grounded steel tower, or other structure, supports multiple wires (e.g., 6) carrying multi-phase high voltage electricity (e.g., >100 kV). Each wire is supported by a ceramic insulator connected to a horizontal arm of the structure, where an angled strut helps support the arm. There are usually three tiers of wires. The closest distance between a wire and ground is typically between the wire and an angled strut below the wire, where the angled strut helps support a lower-tier wire. A guard formed of a dielectric is affixed to and covers the lower portion of the steel strut as well as any steel that outward extends beyond the strut. The guard prevents flashover between a wire and the underlying grounded strut if a large bird perches on the guard, since the bird will not be grounded by the strut.

Abstract: An animal deterrent device includes an elongated carrier having an internal cavity. A conductive trace can be coupled to the carrier by a first fastener that extends from the conductive trace to the cavity, which prevents water from contacting the fastener and shorting the conductive trace.

Abstract: A deterrent device can include an elongated base having a plurality of spikes coupled to the base that are configured to extend from the base such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base.

Abstract: An adjustable bird slope has a face that can be extended or contracted so that the bird slope can effectively fit almost any perching area.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and apparatus for averting water fowl settlements using a humane, non-lethal, optionally solar and rechargeable battery operated microcontroller controlled by preset code, a multi-patterned and changing light generating apparatus, with at least 500 nm to 570 nm visible and 300-399 nm ultraviolet spectrum LED lights, activated by means for sensing ambient light levels to determine activation periods and resting periods for retraining water fowl to relocate settlements to an alternate location by disrupting their dark-adapted night vision. The apparatus may be in the form of a floating buoy or a land or other structural surface mountable device and includes means to prevent perching thereon.

Abstract: A barrier for blocking access to an enclosed space so that wildlife cannot enter the space for either nesting or other habitation is disclosed. Plural resilient spikes extend outwardly in an array from a base. When the apparatus is inserted into a space, the spikes bend so that the tips engage the walls of the space to lodge the barrier in place and resist extraction. The spikes discourage wildlife from entering and nesting in the space.

Abstract: A roof framing structure (20) is disclosed, and includes a plurality of primary supports (30) (e.g., rafters) that may be disposed in parallel relation and extend along the roof pitch (14). One or more secondary supports (40) extend between each adjacent pair of primary supports (30). Each secondary support (40) is of a triangular cross-sectional configuration, and may extend orthogonally to the various primary supports (30).

Abstract: A deterrent device can include an elongated base having a plurality of spikes coupled to the base that are configured to extend from the base such that such that the spikes alternate on each side of the base between a lower-angled spike and an upper-angled spike. The base can further include first and second wings that each has a width that is at least twice a width of the base.

Abstract: An adjustable bird slope has a face that can be extended or contracted so that the bird slope can effectively fit almost any perching area.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fence stake including a lateral rod side connected to a vertical rod at spaced intervals. An alternative embodiment includes bending the vertical stake in a complete reversal to also connect the end of the vertical rod to the lateral rod to provide a second connection location and directly transfer hammer blow to the lateral rod. A further alternative embodiment includes adding an angled rod that is connected to the lateral rod, connected to the vertical rod, or connected to both the lateral rod and the vertical rod.