Abstract: A temperature measuring device comprises a ring oscillator having a nominal oscillating frequency positioned at a location where temperature is to be measured. The ring oscillator emits electromagnetic radiation to an antenna located at a convenient distance from the ring oscillator. The antenna transforms the electromagnetic radiation into an electrical signal. A receiver receives the electrical signal and measures the frequency of the electrical signal to determine the corresponding temperature. The temperature may then be visually monitored from a display or electronically monitored by other devices.

Abstract: An electrosurgical hemostatic instrument is provided in which the coagulation status of tissue engaged by two elements delivering an electrosurgical energy to tissue may be observed, and in which damage from thermal spread may be minimized. A preferred embodiment of the invention provides a bipolar endoscopic clamping, coagulation and cutting device. In this device, the outer conductive surface of the tissue engaging elements is substantially covered by an insulative coating which confines current flow to the clamped tissue and limited regions around the tissue engaging elements. Coagulation may be observed by watching the region around the tissue engaging elements. Coagulation around the tissue engaging elements may be controlled by selectively coating the outside of the elements with insulation to control current flow from the surface of the engaging elements.

Abstract: An absorbent article is disclosed for absorbing liquids, including body fluids such as menstrual discharges or urine. The absorbent article has a liquid impermeable backsheet on which is disposed an absorbent core, and first and second liquid permeable topsheet layers. The edge of the absorbent core defines a perimeter, and the first and second topsheet layers and the backsheet each extend laterally beyond the perimeter to define a continuous border segment surrounding the absorbent core. A liquid impermeable seal is formed in the border segment which surrounds the perimeter for preventing lateral migration of liquid from the absorbent core beyond the seal. The seal is formed to extend from an outer surface of the first topsheet layer to an outer surface of the backsheet, for establishing a capillary gradient in the second topsheet layer, thereby inhibiting wicking of fluid therethrough.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of ground cover rose plant is provided which forms attractive soft light yellow blossoms. The new variety exhibits a compact growth habit that renders it suitable for growing as an ornamental ground cover in the landscape. The foliage is glossy and contrasts well with the light yellow blossoms. The reproductive organs and pollen provide a darker bright yellow coloration at the center of each fully open blossom. The petals drop off cleanly as the blossoms mature. The new variety propagates well from cuttings and by budding and exhibits an excellent resistance to blackspot, mildew, and rust.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing pink and cream/white bicolor flowers of good form and suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing white to yellow-white colored flowers of good form and suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing deep yellow flowers of good form and suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing light yellow to orange bicolor flowers of good form and suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing salmon pink flowers of good form and suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: A new variety of hybrid tea rose plant producing bright red flowers suitable for growing under glass.

Abstract: This invention relates to a new and distinct variety of strawberry plant named `Lido`, botanically identified as Fragaria .times. ananassa. The closest known variety is `Swede`. The new variety is partially everbearing. The new variety is distinguished from `Swede` by its glossier upper leaf surface, dense petiole pubescence and longer petiole pubescence. The cull rate for `Lido` was 42% of that for `Swede`. Following prolonged storage, the percent fruit that had rotted for `Lido` was about 57% of that for `Swede`. The reaction to disease was similar between `Lido` and `Swede`, but `Lido` is moderately resistant to Botrytis fruit rot, whereas `Swede` is susceptible. The PGI isozyme banding pattern for `Lido`, is A3, while that for, `Swede` is A1. The LAP and PGM banding patterns are B3 and C2, respectively, for both `Lido` and `Swede`.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of African violet named Mexico City, as described and illustrated, and particularly characterized by its extra large growth habit (35-45 cm in diameter); large, star-shaped, dark purplish blue flowers with wavy petal tips; strong stems which curve toward the center to form a bouquet above the leaves; profuse flowering; very large, dark green, heart-shaped leaves; flowering 10-11 weeks after planting of unrooted shoot, and by its long lasting and non-dropping flowers.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Impatiens plant named `Danimaz`, characterized by the combined features of bright red flower color, relatively large flowers, solid dark green leaves, and by its round, compact growth habit but relatively large plant diameter, with the flowers developing slightly above the foliage.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of impatiens plant named `Daniboss`, characterized by the combined features of bright red-purple flower color, very large flowers, solid dark red-green leaves, round, very compact growth habit with excellent self branching, and by its unique leaves, which are more round and thicker than other known cultivars of the species.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Impatiens plant named `Danitara`, characterized by the combined features of bright red-purple flower color, solid dark green leaves, compact growth habit, and long pedicels which carry the flowers evenly well above the foliage.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Kalanchoe plant named `Pink Carnation`, characterized by its dark hot pink fringed flowers with white margins giving a bi-colored appearance; moderately vigorous plant growth habit and moderate growth rate; upright plant habit; dark green and glossy leaves; floriferous with numerous flowers per plant; and good postproduction longevity.

Abstract: A distinctive cultivar of Elatior Begonia plant named Dina, characterized by its numerous fully pink flowers with darker pink petal margin; upright, spreading and moderately vigorous growth habit; freely branching; good stem and stem base strength; dark green foliage; strong and vigorous root system that develops rapidly; resistant to Powdery Mildew under greenhouse conditions; and excellent postproduction longevity.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Spathiphyllum plant named Pollux, characterized by its very compact plant habit; moderate vigor; rapid growth rate; large dark green leaves are held horizontal to the petiole; early flowering numerous white flowers that are positioned just above the foliage on strong and erect peduncles; and long-lasting flowers.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Spathiphyllum plant named Himalaya, characterized by its compact plant habit; moderate vigor; rapid growth rate; large dark green leaves are held horizontal to the petiole; early flowering; numerous large white flowers that are positioned just above the foliage on strong and erect peduncles; and long-lasting flowers.

Abstract: Fountain apparatus in which a valve (40B) in the liquid circulating system of a fountain is adapted to control liquid flow to one or more nozzles (73, 74) to effect movement and interaction of the streams dispersed therefrom to produce fountain displays. The valve includes a valve body having two or more outlets (71A, 71B, 72A, 72B), each connected by a conduit (71C, 71D, 71E, 71F) to deliver liquid to one or more single entry or multiple entry nozzles (73, 74), and a hollow valve element (46A) provided with two or more lateral openings (67-69) and an inlet port (66) connected to receive the circulating fountain liquid for transmission through said lateral openings. Reversible drive motors (56, 65) in drive connection with the valve element are adapted to impart linear axial movement and reversible axial rotation of the valve element to periodically position the valve element lateral openings in communication with the valve outlets to control the distribution of liquid to the nozzles.

Abstract: A method or apparatus for controlling coefficients of an adaptive filter (3) for identifying unknown system or predicting periodic signals by correcting coefficients of the adaptive filter (3) in such a manner that the difference signal obtained by subtracting an output signal of the adaptive filter (3) from a mixed signal of the output signal from the unknown system and an interference signal comprises steps or means (9) for obtaining the information relating to the magnitude of the coefficients or output of the adaptive filter, and adaptively varying the amount of correction in coefficients of the adaptive filter in response to the obtained information.

Abstract: A body harness for securing to and movement of a victim from harm's way, comprising an elongated belt for extending around the chest of a victim and under his armpits, having a quick lock-quick release buckle to rapidly buckle the ends of the belt together around the victim's chest and to rapidly unbuckle the ends for removal of the harness after the victim has been moved to a safe location so he can be quickly transported to a hospital for observation and treatment, and having an elongated hand grasp loop that is long enough to extend from its connection to the belt around the victim's chest in the direction toward the victim's head to a location beyond the victim's head where the rescuer can feel for, locate and grasp the hand grasp loop to drag the victim to safety. The hand grasp loop is attached to the belt at a diagonal so it extends diagonally in the direction toward the victim's head when the belt is secured around a victim lying on his back.

Abstract: The protective hand and wrist guard includes a front portion which is substantially rigid. The front portion includes a first section which extends over the inner wrist area of the user. A second section extends therefrom and curves over the heel area of the hand and into the palm area, extending upwardly to an upper end which extends across the hand just below the base of the fingers. One side edge curves partially around a lower edge of the hand, while an opposing edge curves below the base of the thumb and includes an outwardly extending portion which at its free end curves partially around an upper edge of the hand between the forefinger and the thumb. A protective pad is attached to the inner surface of the front portion, while straps at the upper and lower ends secure the article firmly on the user.

Abstract: A thermoinsulative protective garment comprising a first, outer, waterproof but vapor permeable, garment part for covering at least a part of the body of a wearer (preferably the whole body) and a second, inner, thermoinsulative garment part constituting a lining for the first garment part and sealingly bonded to the first garment part at least at the aperture(s) of the garment, so as to provide a layer of air between the garment parts, the second garment part including a thermoinsulative fabric sheet comprising a substantially impermeable closed-cell elastomeric (e.g.

Abstract: A double layer sweater which is knit simultaneously of two independent layers, one being an inner layer, and the other layer being an outer layer. Joining the two layers together is a polygonal-shaped quilting stitch pattern forming insulating pockets between the layers. Each layer is different and may be comprised of a blend of wool and acrylic yarn in the outer layer and a synthetic wicking enhanced yarn, such as polyester or acrylic, in the inner layer, such that there is a hydrophilic inner layer and a hydrophobic outer layer. The inner layer is comprised of synthetic yarn with enhanced wicking features. The outer layer of yarn is treated in a bath of teflon material such that the teflon-coated yarn produces the hydrophobic outer layer. The sweater has the properties of insulation to provide warmth to the wearer; has a water repellant and stain resistant outer layer.

Abstract: A foldable bag attached to a fabric article mainly including a fabric article, such as a coat, and small and larger bag sewn at one edge to the fabric article, such that the fabric article can be easily folded and received in the small bag via an opening of the small bag, and the small bag with the fabric-made article received therein can be easily contained in the larger bag by turning the big bag inside out. The larger bag also has an opening through which many other articles can be put into the larger bag along with the small bag and the folded fabric article packed in the small bag for convenient carrying and managment.

Abstract: In combination with a shirt, one or more pouches which receives a cooling and/or warming pack. The cooling pack comprises sealed compartments containing water or other material which changes state thereby absorbing heat to cool the wearer when the cooling pack is exposed to a predetermined temperature for wearing of the shirt. The warming pack sealingly contains a material which is heatable to store heat and to release the stored heat when the warming pack is exposed to a predetermined temperature for wearing of the shirt. The cooling pack may also be provided as part of a wrist band.

Abstract: A glove for use in playing hockey is provided with ventilation holes extending through the glove to allow air to circulate directly to the skin of the hand in the glove. Segmented foam pads of the glove have cutaway sides substantially conforming to the shape of the holes. Preferably, the glove includes a floating cuff at the wrist for free yet protected movement of the wrist. Also preferably, the thumb, fingers, and palm have additional layers for reinforcement and enhanced gripping of a hockey stick.

Abstract: A headgear stabilizing and venting apparatus comprises a flexible material having attachment means provided on a first side thereof and a plurality of resilient flexible spacing means provided in a second side thereof. The length of the flexible material enables the apparatus to be positioned within a crown portion of an article of headgear enabling the spacing means to engage the user's head when the headgear is worn. The spacing means serves to space the headgear with respect to the user's head to permit air to flow therebetween and further to flex against the user's head in order to stabilize the headgear in position.

Abstract: A decorative mask assembly having a first and a second flexible material panel, and at least one perimeter securement segment defined generally about a perimeter of the first and second flexible material panels so as to define an interior chamber structured to receive and contain a quantity of a gas therein. The assembly further including a plurality of interior securement segments defined between the first and second flexible material panels and which at least partially defining a plurality of interior compartments in the interior chamber.

Abstract: A fine hosiery stocking has a comfort foot area. The comfort area encompasses the toe, sole and heel areas of the foot. A pad is sized to cover and be secured to the comfort area or integrally knit or woven into the comfort area to act as a liner to protect and comfort the foot of the wearer of the stocking. The pad is made out of a thicker, absorbent fiber material to absorb wetness and allow the foot to breathe.

Abstract: Provided is a high stretch composite elastic waistband that includes a relatively large ratio of drawcord to the relaxed length of the elastic web. The drawcord is fixed to the elastic web in such a way that the drawcord is allowed to oscillate to form multiple drawcord protrusions, such as protruding loops or partial loops, as the elastic web returns to its relaxed size. The drawcord protrusions extend relative to the elastic web. The composite elastic waistband is constructed so that at least a section of the drawcord is capable of being pulled away from the elastic web so that the protrusions are at least partially flattened. Then the elastic web is capable of being stretched and released so that the elastic web contracts and cooperates with the drawcord to form the plurality of drawcord protrusions. This accumulates excess portions of the drawcord. The drawcord is movably attached to the elastic band by connecting stitches so that the drawcord extends in the longitudinal direction.

Abstract: A temporary hemming device includes a flexible member having a first end and a second end and being made of a material which feels comfortable on skin, and a fastening device for fastening the first end to the second end through a garment, wherein the fastening device comprises a first part and a second part, wherein the first part is attached to the first end and the second part is attached to the second end. A method for making a temporary hem includes folding an edge of a garment, placing a temporary hemming device over the folded edge, and affixing the temporary hemming device to make the temporary hem. A temporary hemming device includes a folded edge of a garment and a temporary hemming device securing the folded edge in place.

Abstract: A garment having integrally knit underabdominal and back support panels is described. The garment desirably has a rear panel and a front panel which includes a substantially U-shaped support panel which is more resistant to stretch than the portion of the front panel which the substantially U-shaped panel surrounds, i.e. the abdominal section. The garment can be knit from a single or a pair of circularly knit tubular blanks, and preferably is formed so that the support panels are integrally knit with the garment. The abdominal section desirably has additional courses provided therein, in order to form a pouch area for accommodating the expanded abdominal region of a wearer. The garment also desirably includes an integrally knit back support panel which has a greater resistance to stretch than the abdominal section. In this way, when the garment is worn, the weight of the wearer's expanded abdominal region can be supported and distributed over a greater portion of his or her body.

Abstract: A helmet that provides protection to the head and neck regions of a wearer is disclosed and is comprised of separable front and rear portions so as to allow easy removal from the head of the wearer. The easy removal of the helmet prevents further agitation to any head and/or neck injuries always created by the wearer suffering from a sudden impact.

Abstract: A reduction seat for chamber pots or toilet bowls comprises a plurality of substantially stiff portions (2a, 2b, 3a, 3b) adapted to be selectively disposed in an engagement position on a sanitary bowl, in which they are substantially in coplanar relation with each other, and in a folded position for transport, and application means (12a, 12b) comprising stiff engagement elements (13a, 13b) adapted to abut at mutually facing positions against an upper rim (4b) of the sanitary bowl.

Abstract: The assist device comprises a gate rotatable about a horizontal axis and attached to a vertical frame, which forms a protective enclosure around an infirm person when wishing to sit down or rise from a seat. The vertical frame is connected to a base which holds securely the seating accommodation. The base further incorporates structure to anchor the assist device to a heavier piece of furniture. The device can be operated by an infirm person with no or little assistance by another.

Abstract: A multi-purpose water pressure plunger is provided having a compressible cup defining an interior cavity and having a solid rubber upper portion with a top and a bottom. The cup has an outer wall which extends to form a barrel-like bottom with edges for partially extending into and sealing against walls of a drain opening. The upper portion of the compressible cup has a central passage defined therethrough beginning in a first opening at the top of the upper portion and terminating in a second opening at the bottom of the upper portion. An elongated handle is attached to the top of the upper portion and has a lengthwise aperture therethrough. The water pressure plunger includes a rubber member with a central passage removably and interchangeably attachable to the bottom of the upper portion inside the interior cavity of the compressible cup and to the handle or a valve thereon. The central passage of the rubber member terminates in a nipple-shaped end for fitting into and sealing against a drain opening.

Abstract: A standing urinal includes an elongate, generally cylindrical housing having an elongate opening in a side of the housing. The opening extends radially a suitable but not exaggerated distance to provide side wall components of the housing, and the housing is positionable at an oblique angle to a wall to which it can be mounted, and is of such a size that when mounted to the wall a male can straddle the housing and urinate into the opening. A drain is provided in the lower portion of the housing. A supply of water can be provided for discharge inside the housing during urination so as to rinse urine away down the lower drain of the housing, and the water rinsing can be activated by an automatic switch for each urinal user.

Abstract: A unitary lavatory seat assembly including a seat adapted for sitting thereon for lavatory purposes, the seat including a non-pivoting extension which extends from a forward portion of the seat, and a base pivotally attached to the seat along a pivot axis and arrangeable therewith in a first and a second orientation, wherein in the first orientation, the seat is supported by the extension and at least partially supported by a portion of the base at a rearward portion of the seat, the base being swung about the pivot axis to be positioned underneath the seat, and in the second orientation, the seat is placeable on a portion of a lavatory bowl and the base is swung about the pivot axis to be positioned forward of the extension, the base being adapted for stepping thereon, thereby to aid a user to climb and sit on the seat.

Abstract: A compact, free-standing swimming pool (900) adapted for vigorous exercising by a harness-restrained swimmer; the pool including a surrounding gutter (903) behind a skimming sill (904) and in front of a ledge, so that most of the water splashed about is retained and so that waves are largely absorbed by falling over the sill and not returning. Baffles (917) placed deep within the pool can break up "slop" type waves. The gutter is emptied by drain pipes (916) leading to a pump (910) for recirculating the water shifted by the swimmer into the gutter back through conduits (914) into the pool. The pump instead recirculates pool water when gutter water is not present. Optional heating, filtration, chlorination, and recirculation current devices (912, 913) may be included.

Abstract: Two cooperating members for sealing a shower curtain to an associated shower stall. One member is stationary, and is permanently fixed to the shower stall. The other member attaches to the shower curtain, magnetically adhering to the stationary member, and has a handle for maneuvering. The stationary member is triangular, contacting and attaching to the sill of the bathtub and to a vertical wall of the stall at two faces, and presenting the third face to the handle member. The handle member has a flat surface for cooperating with the third face of the stationary member. The handle member is formed in two mating parts which close around the shower curtain.

Abstract: A remotely operated plug unit (13) for use in a sink or basin (12) with a sink waste unit (11). The drain pipe requires minor modification, by the insertion of two holes (18, 19) opposite one another part way down the threaded sides (17). The plug (13) is spring biassed to an open position and retained in a closed position by two pins (31, 34). The second pin 34 is remotely activated (by cabling (14)) by an actuator (44) and opening mechanism (15). The plug (13) is closed manually by direct downward pressure on the top of the plug (13). All components for operation of the plug (13) which are contained within the sink waste unit (11) are circumferentially positioned. Three preferred embodiments of the opening mechanism (15) are disclosed (two being capable of incorporation in a tap for the sink (12)). Various embodiments in the manner of operation of the plug (13) are also disclosed.

Abstract: A sofa-bed assembly in a recreational vehicle or van has a seat and a back. There is a storage space under the seat. The back can be moved in a simple roll-over action from an upright position at the rear of the seat to a horizontal, bed-forming position at the front edge of the seat. Two mounting brackets are fixed to the vehicle, one at each side of the seat. The back is connected to mounting brackets by two links on each side of the brackets and back to facilitate this action. The mounting brackets also serve to control the seat which is connected to the brackets by a pair of seat-connecting pivot links.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a low friction bed sheet or the like for facilitating changing the position of a person or part of a person in prone position. The low friction bed sheet includes at least a low friction surface comprising a material with low friction and adjacent to the low friction surface are high friction surfaces comprising materials with high friction. The low friction surface is placed only on the side against the person in bed while the underside against the bed is mainly comprised of at least one high friction surface. The width of the low friction surface is less than the width of the bedding for which the low friction bed sheet is intended. In the transition between the low friction surface and the high friction surface there are transition zones at least lengthwise in the bed which can be perceived by the person in the bed.

Abstract: A crib for more than one infant has multiple sleeping areas. In a first embodiment, there are two sleeping areas separated by a clear plexiglass divider. In another embodiment, there are three sleeping areas separated by clear plexiglass dividers. Front panels of the sleeping areas are adjustable to two different heights.

Abstract: Proposed is a fabric mattress having a layered structure as a kind of health-promoting bedding goods, which comprises an upper fabric layer, a lower fabric layer and an intermediate fabric layer sandwiched between the upper and lower fabric layers, at least a part of these fabric layers being formed from fibers such as rayon fibers containing very fine particles of tourmaline in an amount of up to 7% by weight. This unique ingredient in the fibers has an effect to emit active electrons and far-infrared light which exhibit an invigorating effect on the human body cells of the person lying on the mattress to promote blood circulation so that even a patient lastingly lying on the bed never suffers from bedsores by using the mattress which can be constructed to have good air permeation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a passive restraining device for hospital bed occupants that envelopes the bed mattress and the raised side rails and reduces the risk of the occupant of the hospital bed from falling to the floor. This is useful with debilitated, confused or patients recovering from injury or illness.

Abstract: A cover for a child's rest mat includes an upper cover section and a lower cover section that conforms to the upper cover section and is interconnected thereto along respective peripheral edges of the upper and lower cover sections to form an interior space. An opening is formed into the interior space through one of the upper and lower cover sections exclusively. A child's rest mat is inserted into the interior space though the opening and the upper and lower cover section have a size and shape such that the cover snugly engages the mat.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that allows a bed system to recall bed functions is accomplished by providing a bed controller with additional memory and processing steps. The additional memory is used to store current bed function data, desired bed function data, and recall bed function instructions. The additional processing, when executing the recall bed function instructions, compares the current bed function data with the desired bed function data. When the data does not match, the additional processing generates a function adjust signal which causes the bed to readjust itself to the desired function.