Abstract: A new variety of rose plant of the shrub class distinctive in its character by its fully double flowers of yellowish white with abundant, continual blooming and the unusual blend of colouring and shaping of the flower.

Abstract: A hybrid tea rose variety initially having very large, high centered flower, but flat when fully open, many small thorns on new and old wood, susceptibility to powdery mildew, heavy petal substance, deep glossy green foliage, vigorous upright growth, and exhibition quality of blooms.

Abstract: A new and distinct strawberry plant named Darline particularly characterized by its vigorous growth habit, large fruit with firm surface, orange-red fruit color, medium season variety, erect leaves, and its long picking period.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Geranium plant named Fisrom, particularly characterized by the combined features of dark red flower color which does not fade, double flower type, good branching, dark green leaves, relatively short internodes, and red spider mite tolerance.

Abstract: A Begonia plant named Sweet Dianne characterized by its light pink flower color; floriferous habit producing numerous pendulous flowering shoots; distinct sweet fragrance, and its fully double male flowers which have no pollen or male reproductive parts under normal conditions.

Abstract: A new Begonia plant named Golden Anniversary, characterized by its distinct fragrance, fully double male flowers, rich apricot petal color at its center, changing to a brighter yellow-orange in the center and then to a generally coral color at the edge, its full and pendulous habit, and its floriferousness.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Impatiens plant named Vulcain characterized by its dark rose and light pink bicolored flowers, early, continuous and prolific flowering, dark reddish-green foliage, and strong compact growth habit with good self-branching giving the plant a full appearance.

Abstract: A new and distinct plant variety of the cactaceae family is of the type known commercially as a "Christmas Cactus" and has growth characteristics which are similar to those of the "Christmas Fantasy" variety (U.S. Plant Pat. No. 6,046), but which are nevertheless modified by a combination of characteristics that include among others: phylloclades with shorter and thicker midribs, thicker and wider wings, and thicker teeth that are also greater in number; and flowers that have longer and wider sepaloid tepals, longer and wider tube laminating tepals, shorter and wider tube forming tepals, a perianth tube with longer major and minor axis, and ovaries with longer major and minor axes.

Abstract: Improved piezoelectric ceramic switching devices are described along with their .[.method.]. .Iadd.methods .Iaddend.of fabrication. In addition to the devices themselves, novel electric circuits are described for the energization as well as the use of such devices as switching elements in electrical systems. Parts of both the energization circuits and/or utilization circuits employing the piezo ceramic switching device are physically mounted on and supported by non-polarized parts of the piezoelectric ceramic plate elements comprising the switching devices so that lightweight compact construction is achieved along with substantial reduction of stray inductance intercoupling.

Abstract: A refrigeration compressor system using a reciprocating compressor with continuously variable capacity. The speed of the compressor can be varied substantially continuously over predefined range of speeds. A controller for the compressor monitors one or more physical parameters indicative of the temperature of the application being refrigerated, such as the temperature itself and/or the pressure in the compressor's refrigerant suction line. Using a predefined algorithm, the controller adjusts the speed of said compressor so as to keep said monitored parameter within a predefined target range. In a preferred embodiment, the compressor is an open direct drive compressor. The compressor's motor has a substantially continuous range of useable operating speeds which varies by a ratio of more than two to one.

Abstract: An anatomic fracture brace mechanism for knee braces to provide lateral restraint and delimited supportive motion of the knee joint permitting weight bearing ambulation of the patient during healing of leg fractures or other traumas, a fracture brace being constructed with a brace mechanism utilizing an asymmetrical four-bar, cross-linkage to follow, as closely as mechanically practical, the polycentric motion of the human knee.

Abstract: Deposited silicon dioxide may be used as a field oxide layer or for other dielectric purposes in integrated circuits. However, etching a pattern in the layer usually produces steep sidewalls that prevent good step coverage of subsequently deposited conductor layers. The present technique forms the dielectric in at least two layers having different densities. A sequence of anisotropic and isotropic etching results in stepped sidewalls, providing good linewidth control and good step coverage of subsequently deposited material.

Abstract: A honeycomb structure formed of two continuous lengths of pleated materials secured together intermediate the pleats. Each length of pleated material defines one side of the honeycomb structure. The two continuous lengths are secured together by feeding them longitudinally of their length and toward each other. At the location where the two lengths meet, they are joined together intermediate their pleats.

Abstract: In order to maximize protection against bacteria, this medical garment includes a double front. The medical garment includes a sleeve portion having first and second main sleeves extending continuously from the neck opening to an outer edge thereof. A first body portion of the garment has a first front panel extending continuously from the neck portion downwardly to a first bottom edge thereof, and a rear panel extending from the neck opening to the first bottom. A second body portion is secured to the rear panel and has a second front panel overlying the first front panel to provide the aforementioned double-layered front form the garment. The second front panel runs continuously from the neck opening to a second bottom edge thereof which is not attached to the first front panel such that an open passageway is formed between the first and second front panels to provide an added protective air space layer.

Abstract: A glove is equipped with a mouthpiece containing an air passage. The mouthpiece allows the wearer to puff air into the space between the glove and the skin of the hand. The puffed up glove is much easier to doff and don than a conventional glove. A puff-off wetsuit glove for use in underwater activities is described in detail.

Abstract: An improved glove (10) is disclosed which forms part of a continuous roll of gloves (12) which is particularly suitable for use with a dispensing machine (28). The machine dispenses one or a pair of the gloves (10) off the roll (12) for use by an individual at a gas station or vegetable section of a grocery store, or the like.

Abstract: A liner for helmets, hats, caps or other head coverings has a body with a central section and tapered end sections. The body includes liquid absorbing material and is releasably secured to the head covering for easy replacement. The liners are typically disposable and may be formed with a core of thermoplastic containing other fibers sandwiched between facing and backing sheets. The edges and transversed sections of the body may be densified. Optionally, the liner may be cut in these transverse densified areas to adjust its length.

Abstract: An adjustable-fit flat-top hat having two separate rearwardly positioned spaced-apart reverse foldable rim portions each with intermittently detachable and securable mating mechanism inclusive of a common intermediate anchoring element as a part of the entire mating and securing mechanism, with the common anchoring element being mounted on an rearwardly positioned intermediate hat rim portion positioned within a gap between rearwardly positioned opposite ends of the discontinuous hat band, and spaced-apart parallel stitching securing together circumscribing edges of the hat's flat crown top and crown rim upper edge, typically utilizing opposing male hook and female loops elements as a part of the securable mating mechanism.

Abstract: A face mask able to appropriately cover the nose is made of a sheet of flexible material which forms the body of the mask. The upper portion of the body is so folded that two opposing sides of the folded upper portion are folded downward and decline toward the center of the body of the mask to positions whereat each of the two sides of the folded upper portion are stitched to the mask body at an appropriate distance apart, thereby forming an inverted, concave, V-shaped flange which provides a space which accommodates the nose of the wearer, without leaving a gap between the mask and the face of the wearer at each side of the nose.

Abstract: A face mask including a sheet of flexible material for concealing at least a portion of a hunter's face utilizes a wire secured to the sheet of material for positioning adjacent the eyes of the hunter and an elastic strap associated with the wire for securing the mask about the hunter's head. When the mask is operatively worn, at least a portion of the wire is positioned beneath and adjacent the hunter's eyes and is biased by the strap into close-fitting relationship with the skin of the hunter's face. The wire can be manually shaped along the length thereof to conform the contour of the wire to the general contours of the portions of the face across which the wire is adapted to overlie so that when the wire is biased against the wearer's face during wear of the mask, the mask is worn with relative comfort.

Abstract: A scarf construction is set forth wherein a triangular scarf member formed of flexible sheet-like construction configured as an isosceles triangle includes a series of buttons aligned with a bisecting line of a first apex with an opposing series of button slot apertures for receiving the buttons aligned with a bisecting line of an opposing apex corner for securement of the scarf about an individual. An alternative embodiment utilizes zippered segments spaced apart along the base of the triangular construction. A further embodiment includes a plurality of scarves, wherein a first triangular scarf member includes a plurality of pairs of button slots for securement to button pairs of a second scarf, wherein the button pairs of the second scarf are displaced relative to a positioning of the button slots to provide an elongate scarf arrangement when the two scarf portions are secured together.

Abstract: An overflow level controller for a bathtub is provided with an adapter ring to facilitate connection with a conventional bathtub fixture base, and includes a housing with a removable covering. Rotation of the housing adjusts the overflow level of the bathtub.

Abstract: Novel toilets and toilet seats having hygienic cleaning apparatus are provided which include valve-regulated water sources and flexible conduit means for transferring a flow of water to a point of application. The flexible conduit is disposed to be resiliently extendable from a position integral with the toilet or seat. Alternative embodiments include magnetically-attracting elements for attaching nozzles, connected to the flexible conduit, to either the toilet seat or bowl rim for keeping the nozzles out of sight when not in use. Further embodiments include a separate compartment for housing a portion of the flexible conduit and the nozzle. This compartment includes a lid which can be opened by the user when hygienic washing is required, and may further include a removable drainage seal.

Abstract: A human private parts washing apparatus is provided with a nozzle supporter, a washing nozzle and a washing water supply tube which extends in the washing nozzle with one end protruding into the washing nozzle. The washing nozzle includes an outer nozzle operated slidably back and forth by a washing nozzle driving device and an inner nozzle operated slidably by the hydraulic pressure of the supplied washing water. An auxiliary washing nozzle driving device operates the washing nozzle over an additional stroke. Thus, the washing water is supplied independent of the washing nozzle's operation positions. The washing nozzle reaches the bidet washing position ahead of the anus region washing position by 30 to 35 mm without any trouble, and the washing nozzle can be advanced and retracted by 10 to 30 mm additionally with respect to the bidet washing position.

Abstract: The flooring apparatus for pool or the like comprises an elevating floor formed almost identically with an opening area of a pool or the like, an elevator for moving the elevating floor vertically, and a means for holding the elevating floor at a desired level position, the elevating floor can be set securely and solidly at a desired level position on a small power by sealing the elevating floor hermetically with air for a buoyancy coming almost zero underwater, further one pool can be used for multiple purpose of adults' use, children's use, infants' use and others, thus providing a flooring apparatus for pool or the like which is simple in construction and moderate in cost.

Abstract: A pool cover has a compressible safety edge providing resilient conformance to obstructions over a wide range of atmospheric and loading conditions. Pool covers can be stretched over the water surface of a swimming pool, extending securely onto the surrounding apron except in the area of poolside obstructions. A safety edge may include a resilient compressible foam core supported and protected by a tough flexible fabric enclosure attached to the edge of the pool cover so as to be held against and conform to the obstruction to secure the opening. Solid or hollow foam cylinders of different shapes may be used and forms of extruded plastic elements are shown.

Abstract: Automatic hair and scalp treatment machines are known which include a bowl, and a closure therefor, adapted to enclose the head with the face outside the closure. Also included are spray manifolds on an oscillating arcuate header, and driving means imparting partial rotation to the arcuate header. It has been found that dermatoses characterized by the formation of skin cells too rapidly to be eliminated, such as psoriasis, can be treated with this apparatus. Without the machine, removal of the dead cells or plaques is both time consuming and messy. In this treatment it is desirable to begin with low pressure sprays, and increase the pressure to the maximum which the patient can tolerate. One form of apparatus which could be used for this purpose is the machine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,121. In that prior art device the pressure regulator was a conventional regulator ahead of the header. By this invention an adjustable pressure means is provided.

Abstract: A portable bath tub apparatus 10 is provided for facilitating the bathing of bedridden persons. The portable bath tub apparatus 10 includes an inflatable bath tub 16. An air pump 60 and tank 61 are provided to inflate the bath tub 16. A movable water storage tank 40 is coupled to the bath tub 16 by a water pump 46 which facilitates the movement of water from the tank to the bath tub 16 . A heat dispenser 56 is provided to heat the water in the tank 40 so that the water in the bath tub 16 can be maintained at a desired temperature.

Abstract: A faucet for automatic operation defining a base and an elongated cantilvered spout body provided with a discharge outlet. A sensing means for automatic operation in the form of an emitter and detector are mounted on the spout body intermediate the base and discharge outlet. The emitter and detector are positioned on the longitudinal center of the spout body and provide a concentrated zone of effective detection disposed intermediate the area of discharge from the faucet and the base. The zone shape is transversely elongated relative to the longitudinal center of the faucet spout body.

Abstract: A collaphible structure suitable for use as a childrens' play yard. The collapsible structure includes opposing end members movably connected by articulated elongated members. By rotating the articulated elongated members, the elongated members can be folded to bring the end members into juxtaposition; thus, encasing a base, side walls and the elongated members of the play yard.

Abstract: An orthopedic pillow in accordance with the present invention comprises a unitary body of feathers, foam or other resilient material with a deep generally hemispherical depression or aperture. The aperture receives the back of a user's head in such a manner that a portion of the weight of the head is supported generally on or substantially close to a mattress or the like beneath the pillow while the rest of the weight of the user's head is supported by the surrounding portion of the pillow. This design allows the user's head to rest generally on the same horizontal surface on which the remainder of the user's body rests. As a result, the head can shift backwardly into an ideal postural position in relation to the long axis of the user's body. Also, the aperture is eccentrically positioned in the body to provide different distances between the edge of the body and the aperture. Preferably, the pillow is rectangular with the aperture offset from the axes of the pillow.

Abstract: A polyurethane foam mattress overlay has several sections defined in a relatively flat support surface thereof. The sections are longitudinally disposed so as to correspond with different parts of a user's body. Each such section has predetermined support characteristics which are selected in relationship with such characteristics for the other sections so as to define systematized support. Specific numerical ranges and interrelationships for such sections are disclosed. A plurality of projections are formed in each surface section. In general, the cross-sectional area of such projections at the overlay support surface or at a given depth therefrom is the same within each section, but differs from one section to another. Separation distances between such projections may also vary with the respective sections. In such manner, tailored support characteristics in respective sections provide engineered support for all parts of a user's body.

Abstract: A combination tool includes a retractable knife and a pitch gage which provides pitch measurements directly in terms of inches of vertical rise per foot of horizontal distance. The tool can also be provided with indicia to permit vertical and horizontal alignment of shingles, as well as uniform overlapping of boards, and a liquid level device. The tool has a casing with a storage compartment for holding extra knife blades or different types of knife blades. A method is disclosed which permits the tool to be used for obtaining uniform shingle overhang, horizontal and vertical alignment of the shingles, and uniform overlap of siding boards.

Abstract: A wiper assembly (120, 220) for a pulling over and toe lasting machine provides for variation of the configuration of the continuous wiping surface (146, 246) and of the leading edge (144, 244) of the wiper assembly. This is achieved by each wiper plate arrangement comprising two wiper plates (132, 152; 232, 252) pivotally connected to one another whereby their angular relationship can be varied. In one embodiment the wiper plate configuration is varied while the machine is in the rest position, and the wiper plates are then clamped in such position; in another embodiment the individual wiper plates (232, 252) are driven independently of one another whereby the configuration can be varied not only at the start of the lasting operation but during the course of the lasting operation; furthermore, by this independent means, the configuration can be varied differently for left and right shoes.

Abstract: A bridge deck panel support system and method for supporting precast bridge deck panels on a bridge girder. The bridge deck panel support system (10) comprises at least one grade bar support member (24) which is anchored to the bridge girder (14) with a grade bar support anchor (16) so as to extend upwardly from the bridge girder (14). At least one grade bar (28) for supporting one or more deck panels (12) is secured to the upper portion (26) of the grade bar support member (24), the grade bar (28) being selectively spaced from the girder (14) such that a grout receiving space (32) is defined between the grade bar (28) and the girder (14). The grout receiving space (32) is filed with non-shrink grout (34) such that the load of the deck panels (12) is transferred from the grade bar (28) to the grout (34).

Abstract: Apparatus and method for remotely decontaminating, cleaning, scrubbing or polishing the surface of a nuclear reactor cavity wall. The apparatus includes brushes for scrubbing the surface and a drive mechanism for rotating the brushes. The drive mechanism may be a gear drive, a chain and sprocket drive, or a belt and pulley drive. Connected to the brushes and enclosing the drive mechanism is an sealable enclosure. A drive axle extends from the drive mechanism to a motor which is disposed in a housing connected to and located proximate the enclosure. The motor is capable of rotating the drive axle which in turn operates the drive mechanism for rotating the brushes. A fluid dispenser is also provided for dispensing a cleaning agent against the surface to enhance the cleaning ability of the brushes. A container is attached to the housing for receiving ballast therein so that the brushes may exert a bearing pressure against the surface of the wall for suitably scrubbing the surface.

Abstract: The disposable toilet seat wipe apparatus of this invention includes a pre-moistened, cleansing pad within a carrying container having a pair of component sections separable one from another, and by a pull-apart action, for example. The cleansing pad is initially stored in one of the two sections, and is coupled with a rod extending from within the other section. As the two sections are separated, an inner lip of the first section contacts with the pad to "blossom" it outwardly, as the sections continue to part. The pre-moistened cleansing pad so deployed can then be used in wiping the seat.

Abstract: The tooth brush having an anatomically compatible structure has a handle which is twisted in comparison to that of the conventional tooth brush so that a plane passing through the head of the tooth brush bearing the bristles and another plane passing through the handle cross each other at a certain angle. The handle is however preferably divided into two parts, a concavo-convex oblong section contiguous to the neck inclined with respect to the plane of the head and a rhombus-like cross sectioned end part which is also inclined with respect to the plane of the head, but in the opposite direction to that of the oblong section. The handle can be provided with a depression and shaped to fit the thumb and forefinger when gripped by the hand. Because of the structure of tooth brush, the bristles can be applied upright on the teeth, when the hand holds the handle in a more comfortable unstrained position than the conventional tooth brush.

Abstract: Cleaning apparatus for an electronic game console and associated game cartridges, wherein the game console is of the type having a first edge connector adapted to engage a mating second edge connector provided in the game cartridge. The cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning cartridge having a housing portion at one end and a handle portion at the other end, the housing portion having first and second separable portions, and having a recessed forward end. A first cleaning element is mounted within the recessed forward end, the cleaning element being sized and shaped to correspond substantially to the first edge connector, so that the cleaning pad engages the second edge connector upon insertion into the game console port. A second cleaning element is carried within the housing portion of the cartridge, the second cleaning element including an elongated member having a washing pad on one end thereof and a drying pad on the other end thereof, for cleaning the edge connector of the game cartridge.

Abstract: An escalator cleaning device is disclosd having a brush adapted to cover the tread of an escalator and a frame for supporting the brush. The cleaning device is further constructed so that the frame can engage the side walls of an escaltor in order to support the cleaning device in place during use.

Abstract: An apparatus for brushing and/or cleaning shoes and other footwear which includes a number of sequential stations. The apparatus includes a machine having a plurality of upstanding brushes mounted for rotation about respective generally vertical axes. The vertical axes of the upstanding brushes are sequentially spaced apart and each of the brushing stations is defined by a sequential pair of the upstanding brushes. Between sequential pairs of the upstanding brushes, a respective flat circular brush is mounted. Each of the brushes is driven by a single motor. Further, a casing is provided for housing the brushes and at least a portion of the driving transmission from the motor. The casing has a lateral opening at each of the brushing stations for introducing a shoe or boot for brushing or cleaning. A cleaning fluid for the brushing and/or cleaning stations can be merely water or water with an additive such as a detergent or disinfectant. In addition, heated air can be provided for drying the cleaned shoes.

Abstract: A portable hand held vacuum cleaner is disclosed as having a housing with a handle to lift and operate the vacuum cleaner, and a nozzle/debris container releasably locked to the housing. The housing contains a motor driven blower that draws air and debris (wet or dry) into the nozzle/debris container for depositing the debris therein, while allowing air to be exhausted through the blower and then through the housing to atmosphere. The blower is constructed with first and second jointly rotatable elements having a series of circumferentially spaced blower exhaust passageways and a transversely extending blower passageway adjacent the nozzle/debris container, for increased efficiency. A combined filter and seal is positioned in sealing engagement between the housing and the nozzle/debris container while affording filtering of debris from air between the nozzle/debris container and the blower in the housing.

Abstract: A hinge, in particular for furniture doors, of the type in which a wing is designed to be fitted to a base secured to the piece of furniture, comprises an intermediate element for connecting the wing to the base having a substantially U-shaped transverse configuration to determine two rigid sides which laterally embrace the base.The intermediate element is provided with fastening means for securing it to the wing, and unfastenable means connecting it to the base comprising members yieldingly fitted onto the intermediate element in two portions spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the wing. The yielding members are elastically biased to move into a position in which they engage with complementary housings in the base in order to couple the intermediate element to the latter, the movement of approach between the base and the wing for the coupling being amply indeterminate.

Abstract: A gravity swing door hinge includes flange guards for protecting the hinge from damage and a telescopic cover assembly for protecting the cam and eliminating pinch points between cam parts and between the door and the hinge body. The hinge may be flush mounted to a door jamb while providing a broad range of pivotal movement on each side of its closed position.

Abstract: A circular textile fiber bale opener with a goosenecked transition from separately chambered dual plucker rolls provide for larger laydown area and greater production. The transition causes uniform air velocity at the top of the fiber bales across the full length of the plucker rolls. Plucked fibers from the transition are delivered through a centrally disposed hollow shaft for delivery downstream. The shaft carries electrical collector rings with which are associated brushes which rotate with the opener for completing connections between the external and internal wiring required for the apparatus.

Abstract: Individual fiber components are blended in accordance with the properties of a required intermediate product such as a card sliver or an end product such as a yarn. The fiber bales are combined into component groups and the fiber components in the groups are accurately supplied by metering devices to a blender in which the components are uniformly mixed. The product from the blender may be cleaned and thereafter carded into a sliver. The characteristics of the sliver, such as the color, fiber, fineness and quantity, are tested and adjustments made in the blending in dependence upon any deviation from preset values for the characteristics.

Abstract: The chest strap of a three-point safety belt of a vehicle is positioned, particularly for small passengers, by a substantially triangular plate with two elongated slots which lie at an acute angle with respect to each other. One slot has an upwardly directed open end for receiving the chest strap. By moving the device along the abdomen strap, the position of the chest strap across the wearer's chest can be adjusted.

Abstract: A bottom end stop for a slide fastener is disclosed, which is formed by injection molding of a plastics material into a multi-shape structure designed to eliminate unintentional separation or "chain crack" of the fastener which would otherwise take place at the joint between the end stop and an endmost or terminal one of discrete coupling elements when upwardly directed thrust force is exerted from under the fastener.

Abstract: A pant's clip apparatus comprising an elongated, generally flattened, elliptical clip member with straight sides and overlapping ends. One of the ends of the clip member is formed into a curved hook portion which overlies the other end of the flat clip member. The intermediate portion of the clip member forms a curved resilient hinge element.

Abstract: Denim fabric having warp yarns containing cotton and high shrinkage synthetic staple fiber is desized, preshrunk and compressively shrunk.