Abstract: The present invention relates to powder-layer three-dimensional printers (2) having a discrete supply hopper (340) and a recoater (20). The discrete supply hopper (340) is configured to transfer a build powder to the recoater (20) in a manner that enhances the uniformity of build powder layers that are dispensed from the recoater (20). In some embodiments, at least one of the discrete supply hopper and the powder hopper of the recoater is adapted to selectively contact the other, seal against the other, and/or have one partially inserted inside the other so as to diminish or prevent powder pluming during the transfer of build powder from the discrete supply hopper to the recoater.

Abstract: A pair of athletic shorts with removable contoured pads is presented. The elastic shorts have thigh, hip and tailbone pockets permanently affixed to the main shell of the shorts. Each of the pockets has upper flaps, which are fastened to the lower portion of the pocket by VELCRO™ fasteners. The pad itself is a semi-flexible cushioned type pad having a serrated configuration such that only portions of the pad actually come in contact with the athlete's body. These pads have peaks and valleys such that they are fully compressed only during a fall or a collision, remaining only in partial contact with the athlete's body at other times. The pads may be removed, washed, and replaced easily because they are not permanently sewn or attached to the main shell of the athletic shorts.

Abstract: A pair of athletic shorts with removable contoured pads is presented. The elastic shorts have thigh, hip and tailbone pockets permanently affixed to the main shell of the shorts. Each of the pockets has upper flaps, which are fastened to the lower portion of the pocket by VELCRO™ fasteners. The pad itself is a semi-flexible cushioned type pad having a serrated configuration such that only portions of the pad actually come in contact with the athlete's body. These pads have peaks and valleys such that they are fully compressed only during a fall or a collision, remaining only in partial contact with the athlete's body at other times. The pads may be removed, washed, and replaced easily because they are not permanently sewn or attached to the main shell of the athletic shorts.