Abstract: A vacuum appliance capable of picking up both wet and dry material is described, wherein the vacuum appliance includes an impeller configured to induce liquid into the vacuum appliance, a motor configured to turn the impeller, a restrictor assembly to prevent the liquid from being ingested into the motor, and a bypass vent assembly configured to allow sufficient air to reach the motor in order to keep the motor cool while the restrictor is preventing the liquid from being ingested into the motor. The vacuum appliance also includes a drum configured to retain the liquid and an impeller intake between the impeller and the drum. The restrictor may comprise a float configured to rise with a level of the liquid in the drum and prevent the liquid from entering the impeller intake. The bypass vent assembly may be configured to allow airflow to bypass the restrictor and/or the drum.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer having ergonomic and efficiency features. The thermometer includes a display and a control panel, defined by at least one button, disposed above the display. The thermometer is easy and comfortable to hold and allows the user to operate the thermometer with one hand. The thermometer holds a probe and a container of probe covers in a convenient and compact configuration. A battery door is particularly constructed to avoid accidental opening. A bottom of the thermometer is formed to hold the housing in an upright position when the bottom is placed one a horizontal surface.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs.

Abstract: A medical measurement device, such as an electronic thermometer, having a probe. The probe includes a molded plastic substrate having a conductive circuit pattern formed directly on its surface. The circuit pattern extends at least from a first end margin of the molded plastic substrate to a second end margin opposite the first. The device also includes a sensor mounted on the molded plastic substrate for detecting a physiological parameter, such as temperature. The sensor is positioned on the molded plastic substrate at the first end margin by at least one positioning element integrally formed in the substrate. The conductive circuit pattern provides an electrical connection between the sensor and a processor.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method and system to supply pumping capabilities to a wet and dry vacuum cleaner. A single motor can operate a vacuum unit and the pump distinct from the vacuum unit. A port in the vacuum flow path can act as a vacuum tap to prime the pump when necessary. The pump can directly pump the fluids without having to flow first into the drum container of the vacuum cleaner. The system can allow independent operation of the vacuum unit and the pump and at different, more optimal speeds for each, allowing a higher performance on each of the vacuum unit and the pump, since maximum power for the system can be provided to either the operating device while the other one is not operating. Accordingly, the disclosure further provides a system and method for separately engaging and disengaging the vacuum unit and the pump.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a filter for mounting in a vacuum cleaner, such as a wet and dry vacuum cleaner, having a seal at generally each end, and a corresponding mounting structure that focuses compressive sealing forces on specific seal components rather than the filter body as a whole. The sealing is directed primarily to portions of the seals on the filter ends that are compressed or “pinched” between adjacent surfaces. The concentrated compressive stress provides a well-defined region to consistently provide a sealing engagement. The compressive force can thereby remain relatively constant through multiple uses of the filter.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system for mounting and sealing a filter in a vacuum cleaner, such as a wet and dry vacuum cleaner, that concentrates compressive sealing forces on a specific, relatively thin seal portion rather than the filter body as a whole. The concentrated compressive stress provides a well-defined region to consistently provide a sealing engagement. A portion of the seal is positioned into an undercut portion of a mounting assembly and is compressed or “pinched” between opposing surfaces to cause the sealing. Further, one or more of the surfaces are movable to compress the seal portion therebetween by actuation of a rotatable filter clamp engageable with a cam. The filter clamp translates toward the seal portion as the filter clamp is rotated along a sloped surface of the cam to engage and clamp the seal portion between the surfaces.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for selectable predictive modes based upon the same predictive algorithm. A mode selector is adapted for user selection between several modes of operation of the thermometer. Each mode of operation utilizes the same predictive algorithm for estimating the temperature of the subject before the thermometer reaches full equilibrium. Different modes offer users a selection for striking the appropriate balance between response time and precision, based upon user preferences and needs.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer is configured for ease and accuracy in construction. A probe of the thermometer includes a flex circuit containing electronic components used to measure temperature and transmit signals to a calculating unit of the thermometer. A locating member supported by the probe can function to pre-position the flex circuit prior to final fixation so that the electronic components are reliably positioned in manufacture.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a system having a cage mounted in an air-moving system, such as a wet and dry vacuum cleaner, which provides energy-absorbing structural ribbing for a more robust cage. The energy-absorbing ribs can tolerate impacts better than the relatively stiff, axial ribs aligned in a longitudinal direction of the cage found in prior efforts. The energy-absorbing ribs are formed in a non-aligned direction to the longitudinal axis, that is, at some non-zero angle to the axis. Circumferential ribs can be formed at some angle to the energy-absorbing ribs.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a shock absorbing hammer and handle assembly. The shock absorbing hammer includes a hammer head including a striking portion, a shaft connected to the hammer head, and a hand grip. In accordance with aspects of the present invention, a hand grip assembly suitable for use with the shock absorbing hammer includes a shell defining an outer surface and an inner cavity. An inner elastomeric layer lines the inner cavity and defines an opening adapted to receive the shaft of the item. An outer elastomeric layer surrounds the outer surface of the shell. In particular embodiments of the handle grip, the outer elastomeric layer is formed with first and second elastomeric materials, which may define different durometer hardnesses. Still further, the inner elastomeric layer may also be formed with the first elastomeric material. In accordance with another aspects of the present invention, methods of making the novel handle grip are also presented.

Abstract: A switched reluctance motor having a rotor and a stator is disclosed. The stator has a plurality of peripherally spaced stator poles, each being defined by an inner curvilinear face, which is generally aligned with the curvilinear faces of adjacent stator poles in a circumferential path. A plurality of stator inserts are also provided that are disposed between adjacently spaced stator poles. Each stator insert has a curvilinear face that is generally aligned in the same circumferential path with the curvilinear faces of adjacently spaced stator poles to reduce siren noise. Each stator insert is also constructed to include at least one pocket opposite its curvilinear face for receiving a magnet to facilitate positioning of the rotor relative to the stator poles. Each stator insert is further provided with oppositely extending arms for receiving and mounting a pre-wound stator coil or “wound-in-place” coils.

Abstract: A shock-absorbing claw hammer includes a handle, a claw and a striking head. Vibrations in the handle caused by the striking head striking an object are at least partially reduced by shock-absorbing means. In one embodiment, the head includes a top surface and a lower surface, with the lower surface of the head coupled to the handle. The claw includes a first slit for pulling nails, and the head further defines a second slit extending from the top surface of the head towards the lower surface of the head situated generally between the striking head and the claw. In another embodiment, tension and compression rebars are positioned within the handle, with the striking head coupled to the compression rebar and the claw coupled to the tension rebar such that the striking head and the claw move relative to one another upon striking an object.

Abstract: A vacuum appliance is disclosed, comprising a collection canister and a powerhead housing a motor and impeller assembly for establishing vacuum pressure within said canister. In one embodiment, the appliance is of the wet/dry variety. A filter assembly comprising a rigid filter cage around which a filter is disposed. The filter cage is supported on an underside of the powerhead and extends into the collection canister such that the bottom of the filter assembly is at or substantially near the bottom of the collection canister. As a result, deflection of the collection canister as a result of vacuum pressure built up in the canister is resisted by the rigidity of the filter cage. In one embodiment, a frame within the powerhead serves the dual functions of supporting the motor and defining one wall or surface of an impeller chamber in which an impeller rotates to create the vacuum pressure.