Abstract: An expandable osteosynthesis implant has branches (5) each connected at one end to a seat (7) which is pierced by an orifice (8), suitable for being slid from a posterior direction between the facing faces of two consecutive vertebrae in order to hold them a given distance apart and restore stability of the spinal column. According to the invention, the branches (5) and the seat (7) define a hollow cage (1) which, in a “rest” position, has an outside general shape that is a cylinder of circular section, and a portion at least of the inside volume (9) of the cage (1) towards the distal ends of the branches (5) is in the form of a circular truncated cone whose large base is towards the seat (7), which implant has at least three branches (5) and, inside the inside volume (9) at least one spacer (2) suitable for passing through the orifice (8) and the large base of the truncated cone.

Abstract: A rotary brush sweeper includes a debris pan with an inlet portion that glides on a surface being cleaned. The debris pan automatically disengages from the sweeper upon being engaged by an obstacle in the path of the sweeper. The debris pan is configured with an inlet portion or scoop for directing debris propelled by a rotary brush into the debris pan. The scoop portion has a first upwardly and rearwardly inclined surface and a second surface beneath the first surface and facing downwardly. A low friction material covers the first and second surfaces of the scoop to facilitate collection of debris into the debris pan. The covering may include an integrally formed tip portion of abrasion-resistant material, and is preferably configured in cooperation with the scoop to mechanically grip onto the scoop without the need for screws or adhesives.

Abstract: A pad is disclosed for removing facial powder from a compact and for applying the powder to the skin, wherein the pad includes a mesh material on a second side for abrading a surface of the facial powder the compact and for loosening the facial powder. The mesh has a thickness of between 60 and 90 mils and comprises a mesh size of approximately 400 openings per square inch.