Abstract: A humidifier includes a base defining a reservoir for retaining liquid, a humidification device for inducing dispersion of liquid withdrawn from the reservoir into the environment and a liquid storage tank having an outlet for feeding liquid into the reservoir. The humidification device includes a heated disc for evaporating a stream of liquid delivered from the reservoir to the heated disc by a delivery mechanism. The delivery mechanism may deliver the stream of liquid as a mist, a thin film or a controlled stream of liquid onto the disc.

Abstract: An apparatus for the distribution of air includes a fan unit having a first and second portion, where the second portion is pivotable relative to the first portion about a common axis. A base supports the fan unit, and the fan unit may oscillate relative to the base. The fan unit may have a height greater than the width of the fan unit. The fan unit may also be capable of tilting relative to the base to a desired angle.

Abstract: A humidifier includes a base defining a reservoir for retaining liquid, a humidification device for inducing dispersion of liquid withdrawn from the reservoir into the environment and a liquid storage tank having an outlet for feeding liquid into the reservoir. The humidification device includes a heated disc for evaporating a stream of liquid delivered from the reservoir to the heated disc by a delivery mechanism. The delivery mechanism may deliver the stream of liquid as a mist, a thin film or a controlled stream of liquid onto the disc.

Abstract: An apparatus for the distribution of air includes a fan unit having a first and second portion, where the second portion is pivotable relative to the first portion about a common axis. A base supports the fan unit, and the fan unit may oscillate relative to the base. The fan unit may have a height greater than the width of the fan unit. The fan unit may also be capable of tilting relative to the base to a desired angle.

Abstract: A fan assembly includes a fan housing and a fan mount that is mountable on surfaces of many orientations. The fan assembly additionally has indexed positions, so that the direction of airflow emanating from the fan can be oriented in one of a number of different directions.

Abstract: A portable electric appliance including a housing defining an air inlet, an air outlet and an air flow path therebetween; a conditioner disposed in the air flow path and operable to condition air in the air flow path; a power source; and an electrical switch connected between the conditioner and the power source and having an actuator movable between an inactive position and at least one active position, the switch in its one active position transmitting power from the source to the conditioner, and in its inactive position preventing power transmission therebetween. Also included is a lock mechanism including a release element adapted for predetermined movement between a locked position and an unlocked position, the actuator and release element being shaped and arranged to require independent manipulation by, respectively, first and second body parts; and in its locked position the element prevents the given movement of the actuator, and in its unlocked position allows the given movement of the actuator.