Abstract: A voice enhanced phone card which allows a caller to place a call by voice activated dialing only when the caller desires it is presented. A caller places a call using a standard calling card switch number and enters a predetermined service code. The voice enhanced phone card system recognizes the service code, and using known telephone switching capabilities, switches the call to a voice activated dialing system at a main feature point in the voice activated dialing system call flow. The call is then connected to a destination using the voice activated dialing routine.

Abstract: Several unique features for an improved espresso/cappuccino maker are disclosed. A method and apparatus for replenishing the steam tank for a cappuccino steam dispenser in which the cold replenishing water can only be added in stepped sequences, and only after the water in the tank has reached its desired operating temperature. The dispensing unit for holding the coffee filter is maintained in a constantly heated condition by direct thermal conductivity from the metal surface of the hot water tank which is nested and in direct contact with the metal of the dispensing assembly. The temperature probe for the steam wand is housed internally of the steam wand with only a tip protruding for ease of cleaning. Also, the entire steam wand assembly and solenoid control valve are pivotally mounted as a unit to eliminate the need for internal slip joints in the steam lines. A portafilter has an integral screen for holding a single, a double, or a double-double portion of ground coffee.

Abstract: A process for the production of graft polyester/polyamide copolymers useful in the manufacture of fibers which comprises intimately mixing derivatized polyester and suitable polyamide to form the graft copolymer, and thereafter spinning the graft copolymer into a fiber which is drawn.

Abstract: A durable, composite safety ball is disclosed which is formed with a soft, resilient, substantially closed-cell plastic foam core. The safety ball, including the cover, has a type A durometer less than about 60 and preferably in the range of about 25 to about 45. Preferably the core is surrounded by an inner skin which is formed to substantially prevent the entry of water into the foam of the core and, together with an outer heavy, tightly knit nylon cover, to provide sufficient strength to hold the soft cellular plastic foam together as a unit. The soft foam core is preferably a urethane foam and enables the formation of balls which have a performance similar to regulation baseballs and softballs and yet will not produce a substantial risk of injury to players or risk of property damage. Examples of balls having a circumference ranging from 9 to 16 inches, a weight ranging from 3.25 to 8.

Abstract: A durable, composite safety ball is disclosed which is formed with a soft, resilient, substantially closed-cell plastic foam core. The safety ball, including the cover, has a type A durometer less than about 60 and preferably in the range of about 25 to about 45. Preferably the core is surrounded by an inner skin which is formed to substantially prevent the entry of water into the foam of the core and, together with an outer heavy, tightly knit nylon cover, to provide sufficient strength to hold the soft cellular plastic foam together as a unit. The soft foam core is preferably a urethane foam and enables the formation of balls which have a performance similar to regulation baseballs and softballs and yet will not produce a substantial risk of injury to players or risk of property damage. The composite safety ball is also sting-free and has a long useful life.