Engineering Patents

Rigid-Flex Circuit Board System
A rigid-flex circuit board system that can be manufactured using less expensive and more reliable rigid circuit board methods and equipment, and can maintain rigidity and dimensional stability until the time when it is first desired to flex.

Electronic Image Display Systems
An electronic image display system that provides a wall-mounted television/electronic display. Dual display screens are oriented back-to-back such that one display screen is visible in a first room and one display screen is visible in an adjacent room. The invention provides theft-resistance and provides built-in content monitoring and parental control options.

Portable Electric Fence Systems
A temporary electrified fence enclosure system utilizing movable storable fence posts and flexible electrified ribbons that are retractably reeled within the fence post. Each fence post comprises an internal power source. Each electrified ribbon is coupled mechanically to other fence posts to create the enclosure. The system is preferably stored or removably attached to a trailer, such as a horse trailer, and is quickly and easily set-up.

VARIABLE-ALTITUDE TESTING SYSTEMS
A ground-based system for simulating dynamic suborbital-flight environments occurring during substantially complete suborbital-flights by a flight vehicle.

Memento Timepiece systems
A memento timepiece system adapted to assist an individual in the daily observance of at least one daily event memorable to the individual. Many individuals have within their experience, a person, life event, or other occasion that they wish to remember daily, weekly or monthly. The present invention comprises a timepiece, such as a wristwatch, having a factory preset alarm time to mark a daily act of remembrance. Business methods relating to the manufacture and distribution of the memento timepiece systems are also disclosed.

Waste Oil Electrical Generation Systems
An on-site electrical power generation system utilizing environmentally hazardous waste oils as a combustible fuel. The disclosed invention utilizes environmentally hazardous waste oils generated by one or more on-site processes, such as, for example, by the maintenance of transportation vehicles. In addition, the system is adapted to provide local space heating and hot water as a byproduct of the combustion process.

Entertainment Display Systems
An analog to digital system for improved audio driven control of electrical devices, especially those relating to synchronizing lighting displays to music. Methods relating to modular system designs used to produce pleasurable visual effects responsive to analog music sounds are also disclosed.

LOAD SAFEGUARD SYSTEMS
A system for improved monitoring of changes in the location and conditions surrounding vehicles and shippable property, utilizing fixed and moveable logic processors, which communicate with each other as well as receivers. Non-continuous signaling may be used to provide for reduced power consumption, and network coupling may be used to provided for exporting information to anywhere in the world by means of, for example GSM/GPS infrastructures.

Projector Systems
A vehicle projection system relating to use of a light projecting system comprising at least one light projector adapted to project at least one decorative light design onto at least one exterior portion of a vehicle. The system preferably uses a laser projector and user-selectable controller to select and control decorative designs projected onto the vehicle exterior. The controller may be manually operated, computer programmed, remote controlled or utilize pre-selected programming.

Entertainment Display Systems
An analog to digital system for improved audio driven control of electrical devices, especially those relating to synchronizing lighting displays to music. Methods relating to modular system designs used to produce pleasurable visual effects responsive to analog music sounds are also disclosed.

Charging Monitoring Systems
An electronic system for the continuous monitoring of voltage charge within the electrical system of a motor vehicle having an electrical generation source and a secondary electrochemical cell or battery. The system comprises a programmable in-vehicle monitor having a flashing LED indicator that alerts the vehicle operator of the condition of the electrical system. An example of the invention comprises a plug-in housing for use in a vehicle accessory-power-socket. Additionally, a method of market distribution is disclosed.

Heat exchanger systems
A heat exchanger system, for transferring waste heat from a stream of exhaust air produced in a dryer to a stream of fresh air directed to flow into the dryer, including a retriever, or retriever, comprising an array of a plurality of substantially mutually parallel, substantially vertical heat-transfer conduits having square cross-sections arrayed in alternating staggered rows relative to a perpendicular to the general direction of the flow of the stream of fresh air into the dryer, wherein each heat-transfer conduit is oriented to have one corner facing in the general direction of the flow of the stream of fresh air into the dryer. Associated structure for housing the retriever, supporting it in the flow of fresh air, and directing dryer exhaust air into the heat-transfer conduits is also included. The heat exchanger system is adaptable to a wide variety of dryers, and may be built-in.

Memento Timepiece systems
A memento timepiece system adapted to assist an individual in the daily observance of at least one daily event memorable to the individual. Many individuals have within their experience, a person, life event, or other occasion that they wish to remember daily, weekly or monthly. The present invention comprises a timepiece, such as a wristwatch, having a factory preset alarm time to mark a daily act of remembrance. Business methods relating to the manufacture and distribution of the memento timepiece systems are also disclosed.

Disc repair system systems
A disc repair system which is provided for the purpose of consumer-repairing of scratches on optically-read discs (e.g., digitally recorded discs, known commonly, as "CD" discs or "DVD" discs, etc., containing audio or video or other formats of data information), such that an optical reader, which uses a laser to read digital information stored on a compact disc, can read the digital information without the optical distortion caused by a scratch. The system utilizes diamond grit as an abrading compound to recondition the disc surface.

Heat-transfer systems
An improved system (102) for transferring heat, utilizing diols, specifically 1,3-propanediol (PDO). The system reduces the energy consumption, maintenance costs, corrosion, toxicity, and the risk of the fire associated with such heat-dependent processes (106). Unlike traditional hydrocarbon heating fluids, diols do not require draining and replacement if a purifier (118) is installed in the system. Business methods are also disclosed.

On-location electronics troubleshooting services system
A method and system for providing on-location troubleshooting services to homeowners and businesses for low-voltage electronic equipment and other on-location services. It employs the use of an Internet-based system for recording customer requests for service and subsequently automatically dispatching technicians and managing provision of the requested services. It also provides functions to support customer and technician recruitment and sign up. Additionally, it provides functions for recording customer satisfaction, requesting repair services and links to low-voltage electronics equipment suppliers for purchasing desired low-voltage electronics equipment. Service areas, work cells are established for groups of customers which are closely located geographically. Technicians are recruited and assigned responsibility for work cells based on whether their residence is in or close to a particular work cell or group of work cells. Customers and technicians may also access certain functions of the Internet-based system through telephones and telephone interface to the Internet-based system.

Heat-transfer systems
An improved system for transferring heat, utilizing diols, specifically 1,3-propanediol (PDO). The system reduces the energy consumption, maintenance costs, corrosion, toxicity, and the risk of fire associated with such heat-dependent processes. Unlike traditional hydrocarbon heating fluids, diols do not require draining and replacement if a purifier is installed in the system. Business methods are also disclosed.

Monitoring system
A system for improved monitoring of changes in the location and conditions surrounding people and property, utilizing fixed and moveable logic processors, which communicate with each other as well as receivers. Non-continuous signaling may be used to provide for reduced power consumption, and network coupling may be used to provided for exporting information to anywhere in the world.

Mobile phone power adapter system
The ornamental design for a "mobile phone power adapter system", as shown and described.

Battery Filling System
A battery filling system for use in efficiently adding water to, for example, those lead-acid batteries which are located in inconvenient or hard-to-reach places. The battery filling system includes a first flexible tube for use in transferring distilled water from the interior of a water-filled vessel to the hard-to-reach cell of a lead-acid battery. A second flexible tube transfers pressurized air from an external pressurized air source (typically human lungs) to the interior of the vessel in a quantity sufficient to cause the water to advance into and fill the first tube. A cap is used to snugly attach both tubes to the vessel. A means is also provided to minimize loss of air pressure from the vessel.

Hands free cellular system
The ornamental design for a "hands free cellular system", as shown and described.

Hands free cellular system
The ornamental design for a "hands free cellular system", as shown and described.

Trailer Tire Pressure-Monitoring System
A tire pressure-monitoring system for use with a trailer. The monitoring system includes an inductive proximity sensor mounted adjacent each wheel. To activate the sensors, a target is mounted on each brake drum. Rotational speed data for each wheel is relayed from each sensor to a programmable logic controller which compares the rotational speed of a wheel with another wheel. Sensitivity parameters written into the program contained in the programmable logic controller compares the input data and, if the data falls outside the safe parameters, alerts the driver by activating and audio or visual alarm mounted within the tow vehicle. The sensitivity of the programmed logic may be optimized to differentiate changes in a tire diameter due to turning versus an actual loss in tire pressure.

Dome Switch Assembly Method
A machine method for providing a dome switch sub-assembly used for providing a keyboard-type user input to electronic devices. A spacer layer, attached to a retaining layer, having a plurality of spacer layer openings for receiving a plurality of dome switches is placed upon a moveable machine table. The dome switches, arranged in reel form, are machine removed and placed into the spacer layer openings. A removable release liner is then attached to the spacer layer. Also a complete dome switch assembly is provided. A spacer layer, attached to a circuit board, having a plurality of dome switch openings is placed on a moveable machine table. The dome switches, arranged in reel form, are machine removed and placed into the spacer layer openings. A retaining cover is attached to the spacer layer. An overlay layer, attached to the retaining cover layer, may also be provided.

Hand-Held Hair Dryer with Vibration and Noise Control
Described is a quiet hand-held hair dryer with configuration and component combinations for making the hair dryer exceptionally quiet and efficient. The hair dryer includes a housing having a lower handle portion and an upper body portion separated by an air-directing wall. A large impeller moves air downward from a large top air inlet and passes it outward through a side air outlet in a hair drying stream. An electric motor is mounted in the handle housing adjacent its bottom and is connected in driving relation with the impeller by a long vertical shaft. The motor is mounted in a rubber casing permitting cooling air flow and minimizing vibration to the housing; and the upper end of the shaft is stabilized by a bearing mounted in a rubber housing for the same purpose. The configuration of the described hair dryer permits high air flow with relatively low motor speeds.

Therapeutic Device Using Pulsed and Colored Light
An improved non-coherent pulsed and colored light stimulation device used for therapeutic effects in living creatures. Pulsed/colored light is applied to local areas, or acupuncture macro or micro systems, by means of a small diameter optic fiber (10) housed in a pen-like handpiece (18) which makes application comfortable and precise. The light source is an adjustable rate strobe (4) with a housing attached to the front (6) which allows color gel slides (12) to be interchanged. The light passes through the slides (12) and through a length of jacketed flexible optic fiber (10) where it becomes visible again at the radiant tip (20) of the handpiece (18).

Infrared Location System
An improved IR detector system is described which uses a plurality of IR detection modules coupled to a central computer to determine the location of an intrusion to the system. Each IR detection module has a plurality of optically isolated lens and detector pairs arranged in an arcuate array coupled to a local microprocessor chip which is unique to that module such that each lens and detector pair produces a response to a sensed intrusion along a particular radial of the array's arc to allow the local microprocessor to produce a coded signal to the central computer which corresponds to the direction of the sensed intrusion. Using a triangulation algorithm, the central computer combines the coded signals from whichever of the plurality of IR detection modules are active to compute the location of the intrusion.

Vehicle Data Recorder
Vehicle data recorder system including method and apparatus which, without constant attention of the operator, makes a printed recording of the velocity, direction of travel of each vehicle actuating the recorder and the time of day each vehicle actuates the recorder. One preferred embodiment has concentric printing platens which move relative to one another and relative to a printing zone so that the current time of day and the velocity of the actuating vehicle are simultaneously disposed within the printing zone. A clock mechanism determines the position of the time of day platen so that the correct time of day is in the printing zone. Spaced vehicle sensors serially sense a moving vehicle and generate an electrical signal which causes the velocity printing platen to move until the vehicle velocity is within the printing zone. A predetermined sequence of activation of the sensors causes the direction of travel of be printed. A total vehicle count is accumulated on a tabular readout. Another presently preferred embodiment converts the vehicle speed and time of day into encoded pulses which actuate a punch or printer to encode punch tape or print out with the data described above.

Linear Motion Indicator
A linear motion indicator for use on power-driven machinery. The indicator has a slidable plunger that communicates with the movable portion of the machine. A hydraulic system, responsive to movement of the plunger, includes a resiliently compressible slave piston proximate a delineated scale.

Mobile Phone Power Adapter System
The ornamental design for a "mobile phone power adapter system", as shown and described.

Hands Free Cellular System
The ornamental design for a "hands free cellular system", as shown and described.

Hands Free Cellular System 2
The ornamental design for a "hands free cellular system", as shown and described.

Above-Ground Fuel Tank System
In an above ground fuel storage system, a containment vessel is selected to resist impact shock, as well as deformation from fire's heat and internal hydraulic pressures in the presence of such heat. The fuel delivery input port, the fuel tank, all fuel lines and dispensing equipment are mounted fully enclosed within the confines of the containment vessel. The containment vessel may be transportable or be permanently emplaced on use site. Solar energy is utilized to allow operation in undeveloped areas. A remote control device permits system shut down to be initiated from a distance.

PAINTBALL LOADER SYSTEMS
A paintball loader system designed to efficiently deliver paintballs to a paintball gun. The drive mechanism is a screw-type design comprising a resilient auger. A microcontroller is programmed to automatically adjust the rotation of the auger based on data from multiple sensor points within the loader. The auger is mounted such that both rotational axial movements are enabled during operation. The axial movement of the auger is used to maintain a constant force on the paintballs awaiting loading within the paintball gun.

Retractable Tailgate Barrier and Accessory Systems
A tailgate barrier system designed to maintain cargo within the cargo bed of a transport vehicle when the tailgate of the vehicle's cargo bed is lowered. The barrier stores within a storage compartment in or on the tailgate of a vehicle, and extends linearly upward from the storage compartment for use. An arrangement of extendable supports, pivotally coupled to the tailgate and top rail of the barrier system, enable the preferred upward movement. The system further comprises electrical connections. Groups of accessories mountable to the tailgate barrier system are also disclosed.

MATERIAL MAGNETIZER SYSTEMS
A system for improved magnetization of flexible magnetic sheet material, such as magnetic rubber. More particularly, this invention relates to providing a system for magnetization of pre-printed flexible magnetic sheet material.

MOTOR BATTERY SYSTEMS
A combined motor-battery system comprising an electric power source adapted to convert self-originating electrical current to mechanical power utilizing a set of common functional structures. Preferred embodiments include an electrochemical cell comprising field reactive electrodes that directly produce extractable mechanical forces in the presence of a magnetic field.

Truck Cover Systems
A system for covering the cargo bed of a truck is provided having a motorized drive system which stores entirely within the primary cover of the system. Screw shaft connectors provide for automated opening of the cover vertically from the cargo bed of the truck. Demountable enclosure parts, stored within the cover when the cover is closed, are also provided for enclosing the truck bed when the cover is open. The primary cover comprises a removable cover portion that is stored over the cab of the truck.

Hairbrush cleaner
The ornamental design for a hairbrush cleaner, as shown and described.

Fishing Rod and Reel Protection System
A housing system related to the protective housing of a fishing rod and reel, particularly, a fly-fishing rod and reel, during transport. The system comprises a two-part housing adapted to separately compartmentalize the fishing rod and attached fishing reel. A specialized access slot allows easy installation into, and removal from, the housing. The specialized access slot also functions to fixably suspend the fishing reel in the housing interior, thus providing improved protection against damage during transport. A method of manufacture and sale is also disclosed.

TRAVEL STORAGE SYSTEMS
A re-usable, portable, storage travel system for storing flowable substance products such as lotions, shampoos, creams, liquid medicines, and the like for transport, particularly when traveling and, specifically designed for assisting traveler conformance to travel security recommendations for carrying such flowable substance products. The system provides methods and means for transferring flowable materials from larger containers to smaller containers, particularly small-volume, flexible, sealable, plastic squeezable-tubes. This system also provides a re-usable, portable, storage travel system for storing a flowable food-grade substance such as, for example, liquor.

Mobile Music Entertainment Systems
A system relating to improving the usefulness of one or more electronic pianos by providing a multifunctional outer housing. Such outer housing is assembled substantially from modular components, preferably adapted for rapid set-up and breakdown. The housings are designed to generally resemble traditional acoustic pianos. The system incorporates a number of hardware components including an onboard computer device adapted to query and display information contained within a music-related database. A method of commercial distribution is also disclosed.

Sports Ball Bag Systems
A system and related manufacturing and business methods based on bags comprising three-dimensional representations of items necessary to sports contests.

Ball Cap Stretching and Blocking Systems
A portable apparatus that allows users to block, steam, stretch, and/or dry ball caps, including a kit and methods. The ball cap is placed onto the steamer. The steamer has a hemispherical back portion that provides steam, and a front portion that moves to stretch the ball cap while excluding steam from the decorated front portion of the ball cap. The ball cap can be stretched, with or without steam, to adjust the size of the cap. The ball cap can be hot-air dried by the apparatus to block the ball cap to the correct shape. The front portions may be interchangeable with different front portions having different shapes.

SHADING SYSTEMS
A system for improved exterior shading devices of highly adaptable configurations. The system comprises several cantilever shade structures usable in the shading of land vehicles.

BEVERAGE CONTAINER STOPPER SYSTEMS
A system for preventing beverage spills from disposable cup lids. More particularly this invention comprises a circumferential Iy ridged stopper (100) adapted to fit within the non-circular sipping aperture (106) of a disposable cup lid (108). Preferred embodiments of the system comprise indicia, packaging, and methods of use.

INFANT ACTIVITY SYSTEMS
A safe and fun exercise and walking-training apparatus and method that is ideal for infants in the approximate age range of 10 months to 18 months is disclosed. The apparatus is lightweight, very sturdy, very simple, consisting of only six unique elements, and may be assembled and disassembled by hand without tools. A system of attachable play features is also disclosed.

CONCEALED AUTOMATIC POOL VACUUM SYSTEMS
A vacuum pool-cleaning storage system that is housed in the side of a swimming pool substantially below the waterline. The pool vacuum cleaner automatically deploys to clean the pool when the central pool vacuum pump is activated, and automatically retracts to a stored position when the central pool vacuum pump is turned off. The system is adapted to store the vacuum hose in a substantially linear tube located substantially underground. A reel-type hose storage embodiment is also disclosed. The system is preferably powered by vacuum pressure generated by a water circulation pump of the pool plumbing system.

Decorative headplate
The ornamental design for a "decorative headplate", as shown and described.

Stylized mounting bracket
The ornamental design for a "stylized mounting bracket", as shown and described.

Hexagonal brush
The ornamental design for a hexagonal brush, as shown and described.

Retractable Tailgate Barrier And Accessory Systems
A tailgate barrier system is provided having telescoping supports, which stores entirely within a storage compartment in the tailgate, and which extends directly perpendicular from the tailgate surface for use. The telescoping supports are hingedly connected to the tailgate within the storage compartment and are slidingly connected to the top rail of the tailgate extender. Groups of accessories mountable to the tailgate barrier system are also disclosed.

Decorative peg display
The ornamental design for a "decorative peg display", as shown and described.

Semi-Custom Ankle Brace System
Disclosed are methods and apparatus of semi-custom ankle brace systems adapted to be heat-formed onto a patient's foot. The system laces around the lower calf, ankle, heel, and arch, and also provides compression and assists the unitary ankle support in preventing pronation, suppination, and plantarflexion. The boot is custom heat-molded to the end user by heating it to about one-hundred-eighty degrees and then applying it to the patient's foot while it cools. The system comprises a unitary, heat-moldable ankle and full arch support encased in soft inner and outer linings. The inner lining, outer lining, and unitary ankle support form a toeless boot with minimum bulk.

Fire-control Sprinkler Riser Systems
A fire-control riser system that provides a multi-function unitary valve system including providing pressure test, pressure relief, and drain/test fluid flow capability for fire-control sprinkler systems. Furthermore, the fire-control riser system comprises an enclosure that provides for easier installation, pre-assembled components and protects such riser systems from damage during the construction process. Additionally, the fire-control riser system may be substantially comprised of plastic material. The system utilizes an improved flow switch coupling-attachment system that includes no-thread attachment or threaded attachment. The system also provides for multi-function components as well as reduced ports for component installation thereby reducing potential leak areas.

Well Cap Systems
A system for capping the upper opening of a well having an accommodation for a remotely-located control device. More specifically, a well cap system for a water-well having a pipe casing that permits one or more well control apparatus to be located within the well cap. The system is a two-part assembly, comprising a base and hollow cover, both arranged to be supported by the pipe casing. Further, a constant pressure well system utilizing the water-well cap system.

Load Safeguard Systems
A system for improved monitoring of changes in the location and conditions surrounding vehicles and shippable property, utilizing fixed and moveable logic processors, which communicate with each other as well as receivers. Non-continuous signaling may be used to provide for reduced power consumption, and network coupling may be used to provided for exporting information to anywhere in the world by means of, for example GSM/GPS infrastructures.

Tailgate Extender Systems
A tailgate extender system is provided having telescoping supports, which stores entirely within a storage compartment in the tailgate, and which extends directly perpendicular to the tailgate surface for use. The telescoping supports are hingedly connected to the tailgate within the storage compartment and are slidingly connected to the top rail of the tailgate extender. Further, a cargo netting system that retracts into the tailgate extender top rail is provided.

Projector Systems
A vehicle projection system relating to use of a light projecting system comprising at least one light projector adapted to project at least one decorative light design onto at least one exterior portion of a vehicle. The system preferably uses a laser projector and user-selectable controller to select and control decorative designs projected onto the vehicle exterior. The controller may be manually operated, computer programmed, remote controlled or utilize pre-selected programming.

Aircraft Fluid Drip Pan System
A system for improved collection and containment of fluids such as oils that commonly drip from an aircraft during service maintenance operations and during normal periods of storage. The system comprises a ground-supported drip pan incorporating a peripheral cutout adapted to accommodate a landing wheel of the aircraft to permit effective positioning under the engine. An embodiment for exterior use utilizing the weight of the aircraft to prevent movement of the system is also disclosed. 

Paintball Pod Holder Systems
This invention provides a paintball pod holder system for convenient one-handed removal and replacement of paintball pods. Preferably, one or more rigid paintball pod holders are attached to a belt or other support. A stiff lining of the inside of the paintball pod holder keeps the holder open at the ends and permits convenient insertion of paintball pods. The lining also has a spring clip function to securely hold the paintball pod. There is also a non-slip surface to prevent the system from slipping against the body during use.

Harness System
A harness system for aiding a mounted rider in maintaining a substantially upright position during a riding procedure. Additionally, it specifically provides a harness system that aids a rider in maintaining a substantially upright position in the saddle during the delivery of a roping procedure.

Security Handbag System
A security handbag system comprising a purse with a detachable portion removably coupled to the side of the purse and attached to the waist of a user. The detachable portion has pockets to hold the users valuables including cash, credit cards, defensive chemical spray and cellular phone. Upon extraordinary pulling away of the purse, the detachable portion remains attached to the user and uncouples from the purse.

Heeling/Heading Roping Practicing System
A compact lightweight portable heeling/heading rope practicing system with a detachable head portion that provides automated movement simulating the movement of bovine legs using pendular motion driven by a hand cranked spring mechanism and/or electric powered motor, and a method of promoting the sale of such rope practicing systems in conjunction with events in which potential purchasers already participate.

Method and System for Mounting Radio Avionics
A mounting bar system permitting infinite adjustability in mounting avionics-components trays and Dzus-mounted avionics in at least one aircraft cockpit instrument panel assembly. Each mounting bar is slotted along its longitudinal axis. The slot is made to include the shape of a T such that a wider channel exists below the opening of the slot. Spring-loaded nut assemblies set to receive mounting screws from the avionics-components trays are fit within the T slot. Friction provided by the spring holds the nut assembly at any desired location within the T slot. As the nut assembly can be positioned at any location within the T slot, the mounting bar can readily be adjusted to support any avionics-components tray intended for at least one aircraft cockpit instrument panel assembly.

Turf Aerator Core-Cleaning Systems
An aerator plug-core cleaning system for ground surface collection of turf cores extracted from a turf core-aerating apparatus. The core-cleaning system comprises a core-cleaner that primarily attaches to either a walk-behind or tractor pulled aerator machine. The core-cleaner entraps and pushes the extracted cores along behind the core-aeration machine until being lifted in about a vertical manner by secondary attachment to a rear raise-able portion of the core-aeration machine at which point the cores are left in a pile for disposal.

Slope Determination System
A hand-held system for determining the slope of an element having an irregular surface, such as a shingled roof, or along a surface that is partially obscured by adjacent elements. The system comprises an inclinometer having a double indicator to provide two simultaneous readings of slope.

Disc Repair System
A disc repair system which is provided for the purpose of consumer-repairing of scratches on optically-read discs (e.g., digitally recorded discs, known commonly, as "CD" discs or "DVD" discs, etc., containing audio or video or other formats of data information), such that an optical reader, which uses a laser to read digital information stored on a compact disc, can read the digital information without the optical distortion caused by a scratch. The system utilizes diamond grit as an abrading compound to recondition the disc surface.

Tool Drive System
A tool drive system for transferring rotational power from a rotational tool, such as a drill or ratchet, to at least one input drive shaft which then transfers the power to at least one output drive shaft. The angle of at least one input drive shaft being adjustable relative to at least one output shaft. The tool drive system comprises a round housing with an angle adjuster attached to the input shaft that assists in adjusting and locking the angle of the input shaft relative to the output shaft in an almost circular span. The input and output shafts may be positioned in a user-selected gear ratio from the input to output shafts or vice versa.

Backflow Prevention System
A backflow prevention system that helps prevent contamination of potable water distribution systems from backflow at fire hydrant connections.

Golf Cart Shading System
A golf cart shading system shading of the occupants of a golf cart without limiting access to the rear golf cart storage area from the rear of the golf cart. Additionally, it provides a golf cart shade that is fitted to the golf cart, portable, easily installed and removed, and attachable to a wide range of golf cart designs. Even further, the shade has optional viewing windows with shade screening.

Lashing System
An improved lashing system for use with open-bed transport cargo. More specifically, an efficient system for the manual tie-down of tarpaulins or netting used to protect flatbed trailer cargo. The system comprises a plurality of hook-shaped cord positioning components, adjustably supported on the perimeter side rail of a flatbed trailer. The hook-shaped components allow a lasher to secure the tie-down cord of the tarp or net by simple looping action over a rod or similar open member.

Cluster Mailbox Protective Gate System
A system for protecting cluster mailboxes such as neighborhood delivery and collection box units (NDCBU's) and Cluster Box Units (CBU's)from vandalism or theft of the mail. A custom-fit protective gate is built and installed around the mail carrier access doors of a cluster mailbox. The protective gate is built to aesthetically blend in with the neighborhood environment and may include decorative accoutrements such as decorative screening. Further, the system provides a means to install USPTO locks thereby providing uniform access by mail carriers. Even further, the system provides for double nesting doors to access a flat wall unit collection box, such that users may have secured access to individual mailboxes and a mail person may have secured master access to all mailboxes.

Manhole Debris-Catching System
A debris-catching system for preventing debris from falling into the pipe opening at the bottom of a manhole catch basin. The debris-catcher comprises two semi-circular halves hinged together such that the two halves may be folded and inserted into a manhole opening. The debris-catcher comprises aligned apertures that allow it to be hooked and lowered into a manhole. The two halves are opened up to form a circular blocker which sets on the manhole bottom flat base. The debris-catcher allows normal effluent flow through the manhole while in place. The debris-catcher floats and will do so during an overflow condition. Further, the debris-catcher will resume its protective function after an overflow condition has subsided.

Automatic Disc Repair System
An automatic system for repairing scratches on optically-read discs, (e.g., compact discs often called "CD's" or DVD's). More specifically, an automatic system for refurbishing a plurality of disc surfaces at substantially the same time, such that when refurbished, an optical reader, which uses a laser to read digital information stored on such a disc, can read the digital information on the disc without the optical distortion caused by a scratch.

Trailer Electrical Connector Cleaning System
A system for the cleaning of male and female terminals comprised within electrical connectors. The system is a small, compact, portable system that comprises at least one cleaning element wherein the cleaning element may be a brush cleaning element, or alternatively may be a helical cleaning element, and wherein the cleaning element may be used for the cleaning of female electrical terminals. Further, the system may comprise an additional helical cleaning element that may be used for the cleaning of male electrical terminals. The system further comprises enclosing structure that isolates the cleaning element, or elements, from the environment to prevent the dropping of debris from the cleaning elements into the pocket of a user carrying the cleaning system. The system further comprises a pocket clip for the carrying of the system.

Utensil Cooling System
A cooling system, for cooling the contents of a utensil, utilizing a removable, reusable, refillable, freezable toroidal-shaped cooling insert and a toroidal-shaped insulator. The cooling insert and insulator stack in a nested manner within the utensil to provide improved insulating and longer cooling of the utensil contents. Furthermore, a secured bottom holder removably holds the cooling insert and insulator within the utensil. The cooling system includes the use of a temperature sensor and display which provides a visual indicator when the contents have reached a temperature indicating the contents are no longer being properly cooled. Such utensils may include, for example, dog dishes, bait containers and food containers.

Disc Repair System
A disc repair system embodied by a consumer kit, which is provided for the purpose of consumer-repairing of scratches on optically-read discs (e.g., digitally recorded discs, known commonly, as "CD" discs or "DVD" discs, containing audio or video or other formats of data information), such that an optical reader, which uses a laser to read digital information stored on a compact disc, can read the digital information without the optical distortion caused by a scratch. The consumer kit (in a special box package) contains a hand-held rotator which is preferably used in combination with abrading compounds, abrasive discs, and wiping cloths to recondition the disc surface.

Fire-Control Sprinkler System
This invention provides for a valve system for use in fire suppression systems that provides pressure relief, pressure testing, and drain/test fluid flow capability. The valve system consists of a valve body with an attached riser. Adjustably attached to the riser is a rotary handle for raising and lowering a spring loaded valve stem. A blocking plug is provided for attachment to the handle which operates to block the movement of the valve stem during pressure testing of the fire suppression system. A tension disk is adjustably attached to the inside of the riser to manually adjust the spring tension. In addition, a means is provided for preventing system fluid from contacting the spring.

Bed Lifting System
A bed lifting system utilizing a unitary block having bed leg receiving cavities, each of different depth, on reversable top and bottom sides of the block. One of these sides has four round cylindrical bore holes for stably supporting a bed leg (with or without a small wheel) at each of four different elevations. The other side has four cavities shaped to support a large bed leg wheel at each of four elevations. Extension blocks are provided for fitting over the unitary block to further raise the bed leg.

Bi-Fold Box Door System
A utility box, of the type found on utility trucks, having a vertically-openable door which stores by resting on the top of the utility box. The door has as upper segment and a lower segment connected by a first hinge; and the upper segment is connected to the utility box top by a second hinge. The lower segment is about twice the height of the upper segment. Because of this construction, the door may be opened and closed nearby another vehicle or structure, since the maximum horizontal extension needed (from the box) to operate the door is about the same as the height of the smaller upper door segment.

Pipe Connection System
A pipe connection system has a non-threaded, quick-pipe connection for connecting pipe in a pressurized system, for connecting piping components within a fire sprinkler system, including a flow switch to a fire sprinkler system riser port. A male and female member are attached through the use of a through-slot in the female member that aligns with a groove in the male member such that a locking clip may be inserted through the female and male members when they are joined, thereby blocking the members from being dis-joined. An O-ring seal in a groove on the male member and sealable bore on the female member allow for a sealed and pressurized piping system.

Overflow Drain Outlet Cover System
A system for covering drain pipe outlets, particularly, as they exit a building. The system includes a band that is tightened around the exterior of a pipe as it protrudes through the side of a building. Attached to the band is a hinged cover which is sized to entirely cover the pipe and hidden hinge. The cover may be covered with material to match or complement the building exterior surfacing, such as paint or stucco. In addition, the band portion may also include one or more restictors, such as bars, to prevent unauthorized access or debris from entering the pipe. The system provides for multiple size covers and bands for a wide variety of pipe sizes.

Lure Retrieval System
A fishing lure retriever system for retrieving an artificial fishing lure that has become snagged in underwater debris. The fishing lure retriever provides a round cylindrical hollow body, preferably a heavy metal such as steel in construction, which is removably attached to a fishing line through a spiraling diagonal slot in the body such that the retriever is centered around the fishing line and can impact the debris that has snagged the fishing lure. The fishing line is prevented from slipping out of the retriever by the spiral shape of the slot and U-shaped blockers blocking the slot ends. In addition, the retriever has chains weldably attached to the bottom end portion of the retriever to capture the hooks of the snagged fishing lure. Furthermore, the fishing lure retriever has a retrieval line attached to an upside-down-V-shaped bar welded to the top of the body for pulling on the retriever. The capturing of the hooks and combined impacting of the debris and pulling of the retrieval line attached to the V-shaped bar combine to efficiently retrieve a snagged lure.

Fuel-Efficient Tractor-Trailer System
A fuel-efficient tractor-trailer system for improving the fuel mileage of a tractor-trailer combination by improving the air resistance that occurs in the area between the rear of the tractor and the front of the semi-trailer. The fuel-efficient tractor-trailer system provides an improved roof extension, which automatically raises when the tractor is put into reverse gear and an improved wheel mechanism for assisting the side extensions to slide around the semi-trailer ends when the tractor-trailer is turning. The fuel-efficient tractor-trailer system requires only modification to the tractor and not the trailer.

Battery Filling System
A battery filling system for use in efficiently adding water to, for example, those lead-acid batteries which are located in inconvenient or hard-to-reach places. The battery filling system includes a first flexible tube for use in transferring distilled water from the interior of a water-filled vessel to the hard-to-reach cell of a lead-acid battery. A second flexible tube transfers pressurized air from an external pressurized air source (typically human lungs) to the interior of the vessel in a quantity sufficient to cause the water to advance into and fill the first tube. A cap is used to snugly attach both tubes to the vessel. A means is also provided to minimize loss of air pressure from the vessel.

Palette System
A palette system for use in storing and holding substances such as paint or glue, and for maintaining these substances in a usably moist condition for extended periods of time, is provided. The palette system is provided with a sealable open-top box structure for containing a moisture-retaining structure (preferably a substantially-wood-fiber flat sponge) whose cell structure provides a "wick effect" thereby maintaining the paint or glue in a moist condition. A water-permeable paper sheet, placed atop the moisture-retaining structure, is provided for supporting a plurality of paint or glue dabs. Also provided is a lid for sealing the open-top box structure.

Semitrailer Cargo, Door Locking System
A semitrailer cargo door locking system is described for use with a semitrailer cargo door having as part of its opening mechanism a rotatable handle which secured within a hasp mechanism comprising a rigid lower hasp and a swivelable upper hasp. The locking system includes a shackleless keyed lock having an internal bolt for engaging aligned holes provided in the upper and lower hasps, thereby preventing unauthorized opening of the cargo doors when in a locked state. The lock housing is provided both with a protective extension to minimize attempts to pry the lock, and with a tapered side wall to prevent removal by the application of a destructive torque applied by a wrench or other like device. The lock is further provided with a anchor line for either permanently or removably securing the lock to the cargo door. To provide the lock with the ability to be used with regulated loads, a means may also be provided to attach a sealing structure to the lock.

Semitrailer Antitheft System
A semitrailer antitheft system is described for use with a semitrailer landing gear of the type having a housing-enclosed gear train coupled to a telescoping lower strut. The antitheft system includes a non-rotatable shaft-mounted gear segment for engaging the gear on the stationary shaft of the existing gear train, thereby preventing unauthorized raising or lowering of the telescoping lower strut. A lock is provided on one end of the non-rotatable shaft to prevent unauthorized disengagement of the gear segment from the gear train. The antitheft system may be incorporated into an existing housing, if room permits, or the housing may be modified so as to provide for incorporation. Alternatively, the antitheft system may be provided as an add-on kit to be attached to the existing housing.

Fire-Control Sprinkler System Riser Means
This invention provides a fire-control sprinkler system riser for a residence, including a unitary manifold for porting to system components. The longitudinal manifold has pipe threads on its ends to connect to an inlet water pipe and an outlet sprinkler system; and it has ports all to one side of the manifold for mounting the riser system components in the following order from inlet to outlet: flow switch means; test and drain valve means; pressure gauge means; and relief valve means. On the other side of the manifold are support connections, as for attachment to a beam of the residence. The manifold may be connected facing either way, i.e., left support or right support, and it has indicia on both manifold facing sides for indicating flow direction and port identifications to a user from either side. Dimensions provide high efficiency in use of space, etc.

Hand-Held Hair Dryer with Vibration and Noise Control
Described is a quiet hand-held hair dryer with configuration and component combinations for making the hair dryer exceptionally quiet and efficient. The hair dryer includes a housing having a lower handle portion and an upper body portion separated by an air-directing wall. A large impeller moves air downward from a large top air inlet and passes it outward through a side air outlet in a hair drying stream. An electric motor is mounted in the handle housing adjacent its bottom and is connected in driving relation with the impeller by a long vertical shaft. The motor is mounted in a rubber casing permitting cooling air flow and minimizing vibration to the housing; and the upper end of the shaft is stabilized by a bearing mounted in a rubber housing for the same purpose. The configuration of the described hair dryer permits high air flow with relatively low motor speeds.

Truckbed Security System
This invention provides a truckbed security system which includes a substantially-horizontal platform designed to cover the entire top opening of the cargo bed of a pickup truck, lockably, thereby providing security and protection to the contents within. The horizontal platform is strong and rigid enough to carry a heavy payload and is attached by hinge to the rear of the cargo bed allowing the platform's front end to be raised to a convenient height for providing access to the interior of the cargo bed and the contents within. To raise the platform, there is a hydraulic cylinder operated by an integral hydraulic power unit, powered by the battery of the pickup truck, and operator-controlled with a locking key switch. The top of the platform may be used to carry the payload which would normally be carried within the cargo bed. The platform, when raised hydraulically to a substantial angle, can serve as a dump bed with limited capacity.

Security Door-Locking System
A security door-locking system is described for locking closed doors of tractor cabs on truck tractors, for example, of the type used to pull over-the-road common truck trailers, and vehicles, etc., with similar pre-existing door latching systems. A flat rigid bar has a hole near one end for fitting over the striker pin on the door jamb; and the other end of the bar may be attached to a lock outside the tractor cab after the door is closed. A retainer between the lock and the door/door-jamb provides a secure locking arrangement. And a system like a ratchet provides for attaching the lock to the bar in a tight position with the door.

Hole Saw Guide Clamp System
This invention provides a system for using a portable tool for assisting the making of holes in installed pipes, such as water pipes and the like, to prepare for interconnected piping. Such system preferably utilizes a hole saw guide bushing which is contained in a clamp-head at the end of the fixed jaw of a "Vise-Grip.TM."-like device. Such clamp-head accommodates various sizes of guide bushings and hole-saws for making various size holes in various size pipes. Other features assist accurate hole positioning, e.g., horizontal and vertical levels, center marks, and V-shaped holding surfaces on the clamp-heads.

Palette Transport System
An improved palette transport system is provided. More particularly, a palette transport system is provided whereby multiple artist's palettes may be efficiently stored or transported, and without fast drying of the paints on the palettes. A system of open-top boxes which may be stacked in an air-tight manner is disclosed, in which each box may carry a water source and a water-permeable paper sheet to support paint dabs.

Combination Grab Bar and Door Lock
This invention provides a combination grab bar and door lock for grab bar systems of the type wherein a grab bar is mounted outside a recreational vehicle and adjacent an outward-opening door. It provides a grab bar system wherein the grab bar means may be optionally positioned adjacent to an outside portion of the door and locked into such position, thereby barring the opening of the door.

Sleeper Bed for Over-the-Road Tractors
This invention provides a vibration-free sleeper bed for over-the-road tractors. More particularly, this invention concerns a sleeper compartment device which provides a system whereby an off-duty driver may sleep in a vibration-free bed which remains at a preselected height, even during the over-the-road operation of the tractor. This is accomplished by providing a vertically-slidable support for the bed and using an air spring alongside a shock absorber to damp vibrations. Also, the bed itself is mounted on vibration-damping hard rubber mounts.

Telescopic-Sight System for AK-47-type Rifles
This invention provides an improved telescopic sight system for rifles, particularly by providing for AK47-type rifles an improved telescopic sight system utilizing a pistol-type telescopic sight and a mounting method which does not require disassembly of the rifle for mounting or for cleaning and which provides maximum stability and rigidity. The pistol-type telescopic sight is mounted above the normal front gunsight and its mounting there does not interfere with "fast" normal-size sighting of a target.

Over the Arrow Shaft Broad Head
An overshaft hunting broadhead is used to duplicate practice arrow balance point and flight characteristics. Assuming the optimal balance point of the practice arrow is in accord with manufacturer's recommendations, removal of the practice arrow point and converting to an overshaft hunting broadhead will duplicate the balance point, weight and flight characteristics of the arrow the archer has become accustomed to while practicing. The arrow shaft enters the ferrule of the overshaft hunting broadhead. The ferrule is free to rotate about the axis of the arrow's shaft to be properly positioned, then securely tightened by rotating the arrow tip. The ferrule is equipped to hold cutting edges (razors). The ferrule is coupled securely to the end of the arrow shaft by a hunting point tip that couples into a standard threaded insert in the arrow shaft. The broad head ferrule will not experience the load at impact that is typical to existing broad head styles due to the reinforcement of the arrow shaft by an arrow shaft insert located concentrically and internally beneath the overshaft broadhead ferrule.

Expandable Camper Apparatus
An expandable camper apparatus for use with a pick-up truck, the apparatus including a false floor for the pick-up bed with storage space therebeneath in which is stored a hinged, foldable floor member for a tent. To use the apparatus, the floor member is essentially removed from the pick-up bed, unfolded, and becomes the floor of a large tent constructed adjacent to the rear of the pick-up truck.

Vehicle Trailer
A vehicle trailer for attachment to automobiles and the like having a luggage-type form in its closed position but being adapted by structure and hinge location to open to a first alternative position of a tool trailer and a second alternative position of a standard utility trailer.