Abstract: A new and distinct variety of Maackia amurensis tree, characterized particularly as to novelty by its straight trunk with attractive peeling coppery bark, exceptionally vigorous grwoth and its very large showy and abundant white panicles of flowers, born upright in closely clustered panicles at the ends of thick twigs.

Abstract: A new cultivar of Japanese elm tree (ie., Ulmus davidiana Japonica) is provided that exhibits excellent form and resistance to Dutch elm disease. Unlike other Japanese elm trees the growth habit is clean, symmetrical, upright, and vase-shaped. The foliage is obovate to oval in configuration and is slightly smaller than is typical for the species. Good cold hardiness and resistance to elm leaf beetles are exhibited. The new cultivar is particularly suited for growing as an attractive landscape shade tree.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of African violet named Leonardo da Vinci, as described and illustrated, and particularly characterized by its single violet-shaped multi-colored flowers which have a white center and some white edges and an intensive purplish red patch on each of the three large petals (occasionnally on the two small petals also) that fades out to a lighter purplish red color; strong, upright flower stems that curve slightly toward the center to form a compact bouquet above the leaves; medium green, oval to heart-shaped leaves; profuse flowering; vigorous and compact growth habit; flowering 9-10 weeks after potting, and by its long lasting and non-dropping flowers.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of African violet named `Monet`, as described and illustrated, and particularly characterized by its single violet-shaped, bi-colored flowers with unique markings of large white centers contrasting with the purplish blue petals; strong, upright flower stems that curve slightly toward the center to form a compact bouquet above the leaves; medium green, oval to heart-shaped leaves; profuse flowering; vigorous and compact growth habit; flowering 9-10 weeks after potting, and by its long lasting and non-dropping flowers.

Abstract: The new cultivar is an early, continuous flowering variety. Its elegant coral red flowers have big umbels and continuously flower. It demonstrates good garden performance and greenhouse propagation. It also has a medium mound habit with more controlled and uniform growth for bench run finishing. The new cultivar is an improvement in comparison to the variety "Sunbelt Coral.

Abstract: A new and distinctive variety of Stevia characterized by a high ratio of stevioside to rebaudioside C, a high ratio of stevioside to rebaudioside A, and a high ratio of stevioside to dulcoside A.

Abstract: A novel Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni variety characterized by a high ratio of rebaudioside C to stevioside, a high ratio of rebaudioside C to rebaudioside A, and a high ratio of rebaudioside C to dulcoside A in its leaves.

Abstract: A new and distinctive variety of stevia characterized by: (1) a high ratio of rebaudioside A to stevioside; (2) a high ratio of rebaudioside A to rebaudioside C; (3) a high ratio of rebaudioside A to dulcoside A; (4) a high percentage of steviol glycosides consists of rebaudioside A; (5) a high concentration of rebaudioside A; and (6) a high sweetener concentration (i.e., the sum of stevioside, rebaudioside A, rebaudioside C, and dulcoside).

Abstract: A transport pallet includes a support surface which may be constituted by a support plate (2) or by cross-planks (20) as well as three beams (3a-3c) which are fixed beneath the support surface. The beams are fixed to the support surface by pins (5) having a latch of the bayonet type, which pins are provided to traverse the support surface as well as an upper portion of the beams before being locked by a 90.degree. rotation. The beams are fabricated of an injected plastic material, and the pins, as well as the support surface may be made of any material including injected plastic materials. The beams may include straps (24) which permit fastening of a load (30) onto the pallet (1).

Abstract: A system for reclaiming water which has been previously used for such purposes as washing vehicles includes both a diatomaceous earth filter for removing particulates and a carbon filter for removing organic contaminants. Reclaimed water which is in the system and not immediately required for use is continuously recycled by a pump so as to increase the removal of contaminants. A second pump moves the cleaned water into a pressure tank for use in washing. A substantial portion of the system is disposed below ground level with a lockable cover above.

Abstract: An array of superconducting bolometers, assembled with a superposed interference layer of graduated thickness, provides a microelectronic detector assembly that discriminates radiation impinging thereon, as a function of wavelength, and that can be used for transform spectroscopy, color-imaging, and the like. The interference coating will preferably be of step-like form, with each plateau of the structure being of the same spatial extent as the bolometer with which it is associated.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a fully shielded printed circuit (PC) card holder, that may be readily "snapped" into the assembly, or disassembled, as the case may be. The holder is intended to receive a PC card, where at least one end of the card is adapted to be electrically connected to an I/O type connector. The holder comprises a generally rectangular bottom cover member formed of a conductive material, corner supports integrally molded to the bottom cover member at the respective corners thereof, where each support includes a lower flange portion to which the bottom cover member is exposed. Further, a generally rectangular upper cover member is provided where the periphery thereof includes a downwardly extending flange adapted to engage the lower flange portion in electrical contact with the bottom cover member over a substantial portion of the periphery thereof.

Abstract: A head protection system providing several types of head protection comprised of at least three cavities called C1, C2, C3, defining three volumes V1, V2, V3 wherein:C1 is a cavity defined by a mask M for including the mouth and the nose of the wearer.C2 is a cavity defined by the front face of the head component for including at least the eyes of the wearer.C3 is a cavity defined by the rest of the head protection system and for including a large part of the hair of the wearer.Three seals J1, J, J3 insulate the three cavities C1, C2 and C3. These three seals are continuous and close up on themselves.The seal J1 insulates the cavity C1 from the cavity C2, the seal J2 insulates the cavity C2 from the cavity C3, the seal J3 insulates the cavity C3 from the ambient atmosphere.

Abstract: A protective joint guard for use in contact sports particularly adapted for providing maximum protection and mobility over jointed body parts. The protective guard comprises a multiplicity of identical graduated interlocking rigid segments connected directly to one another by a pivot fastener and stop pin connection. The protective joint guard can be used as the joint portion of protective wear such as a leg guard by simply connecting a thigh guard and shin guard to opposing ends of the multiplicity of segments, in which case the protective joint guard is used to protect the knee from impact. The thigh guard, shin guard and joint guard are all made of a rigid material each having interior and exterior shells. To provide protection against contact with the interior shell, and to provided added cushion and comfort for the wearer, a first pad is detachably affixed to the interior shell of the thigh guard, said first pad extends the entire length of the joint guard.

Abstract: There is described a fire-proof protective outfit for activities involving a risk of burns.

Abstract: An insect proof garment capable of being worn to fully or partially protect the head while fully protecting the torso and arms utilizing a zipper system running around the face cover where it joins the hood. The supportive effect of pleating the top of the face cover section and darting the hood top results in maximum protection and minimum visual interference, which is further minimized by use of a darker color fabric in the face cover than the rest of the garment. An integral pouch provides transport and storage of the garment plus a pocket when garment is worn.

Abstract: A stow-away traveler's jacket made from a one or two piece modular construction. The upper jacket or torso covering section has arm outlet and resembles a shortened version of a conventional jacket. The lower section has a belted portion or some other user fastening device and at least one storage liner pocket into which the folded upper section may be stowed and then worn like a belt. There may be storage pockets made of two flapped front pockets.

Abstract: A garment sleeve of relatively long length with an open distal end and an opposite proximate end secured to the garment contains a hollow flexible article of relatively short length and having first and second opposite ends. The article has a relatively small thumb receiving hole intermediate its first and second ends. One of the ends of the article is disposed within the distal end and is peripherally sealed to the interior of the sleeve.

Abstract: A glove made with thin latex or rubber material is suitable for carrying out medical or other delicate procedures while maintaining comfort by creating air pockets inside the glove. The inner layer of the glove has projections or granules so that the contact surface between the glove and the hand is reduced. The glove has a plurality of convexed projections formed on the inner surface so that the convexed projections are in contact with the hand and creates air pockets or buffers in the immediate vicinity of the convexed projections. The glove can be easily made by using a mold having concaved indents or spots and dipping the mold into a pool of liquid latex or rubber and then peeling the glove off of the mold. Each finger tip of the glove may be devoid of the convexed projections to enhance sensitivity.

Abstract: An article of apparel having at least one outer panel (32) that can be manipulated to conceal or disclose one or more inner panels (34, 36,and 38) with exterior surfaces bearing indicia thereto. The panels have fixedly attached adhering strips of material, consisting of either a multiplicity of loops; a multiplicity of hooks and; a combination of both, in some instances. These strips releasably attach the panels to each other and to the garment, via a corresponding strip, fixedly attached to garment material (30).

Abstract: A garment includes a stretchable external envelope having an opening that is openable via a longitudinal slit. The opening is formed by two lateral borders which are spaced apart and closable such that the two lateral borders of the longitudinal slit are joined together by a fastener system. The garment also includes an impervious part inside the stretchable external envelope. The impervious part consists of a panel surrounded by an upper border, a lower border, and two side borders. Edges of the lateral borders of the impervious part are connected to edges of the lateral borders of the longitudinal slit in the external envelope.

Abstract: Protective headwear, comprising:a first head covering for covering at least one portion of a person's head;a second head covering for covering at least one portion of the person's head, at least one portion of said second head covering being within, or adapted to be at least partly within said first head covering, such that the first and second head coverings are in a joint relationship whereby the second head covering is movable relative to the first head covering.

Abstract: A helmet shell structure utilizing a first inner layer of epoxy resin shaped into a head covering of a desired size and configuration. A second layer of woven fabric is placed atop the first layer of epoxy. A third outer layer of epoxy resin is laid atop the second layer and is cured to a transparent state such that the second layer of woven fabric is visible through the third outer layer of cured epoxy.

Abstract: The invention relates to a protective bicycling helmet with a retention system having a rear support member for providing a more comfortable and secure fit on a user's head for greater protection and safety. One embodiment of the helmet has a rear stabilizer mounted at its first end to the rear portion of a helmet body. The other elements of the helmet retention system engage the front portion of the helmet body and engage the second end of the rear stabilizer. The rear stabilizer is shaped to conform to the back of the user's head and extends down from the helmet body such that the helmet retention system engages the nape of the neck of the user.

Abstract: A chin protector for helmets, such as football helmets, includes an inner member and an outer member, and a suspension arrangement for at least partially suspending, in a spaced relationship, a portion of the outer member from a central portion of the inner member with a gap formed between the inner and outer members, whereby upon an impact force striking the outer surface of the outer member, the force transmitted to a wearer's chin may be attenuated.

Abstract: An improved street sport impact absorbing shield including ball bearings positioned along the outer surface of the shield for providing a rolling impact surface upon a fall to translate a tangential moment of impact. The recesses include sockets or channels for retaining the ball bearings along the outer surface and allowing rotary motion in every direction upon impact.

Abstract: A disposable neck protection device that not only covers the neck region, but is constructed such that it prevents particles from coming into contact with the wearer's neck region while at the same time, allowing the wearer's skin to breathe. The device covers the cheeks and other areas below the level of the wearer's eyes. The device attaches to the front of a mask via sticky tabs or Velcro, having its main portion draping down the front of the neck just below the clavicles, its lower portion including a gusset to form fit the device around the wearer's neck. The neck protection device can be manufactured to accommodate any standard or custom size. The device is made of an absorbent outer layer and an impermeable inner layer which prevents debris from contacting the user's skin yet allows for air flow. The lower end of the device may fit under a gown whereas at the top, it attaches directly to the mask.

Abstract: A device automatically closes the cover of a container after a predetermined time interval and is used in combination with a timing member, such as a conventional mechanical timer, that includes timer mechanism for measuring a predetermined time interval, a shaft that is rotatable between a de-activated position and an activated position, and an arm that is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. The device includes a plate member, a first hinge assembly, a first hinge member, a coupling mechanism, a gear, and a connection mechanism. The first hinge assembly includes a cylindrical member that is rotatable in a first direction and a second direction and has a chamber which is sized to receive a portion of the shaft. The hinge member is secured to the cylindrical member and rotates concurrently with the cylindrical member.

Abstract: A tank flushing apparatus comprises the instant invention. The tank is a typical water tank used to flush toilets. The tank includes an opening at the bottom thereof which opening supplies water to the toilet bowl. The operation of the flushing of the tank, or put another way the emptying of the tank, is controlled by an assembly which includes a cage, a cylinder, a full flush stopper, and a half flush stopper. The cylinder is affixed to the full flush stopper and the cage is affixed to the full flush stopper. The half flush stopper sealingly engages the cylinder. The half flush stopper is movable within the cage and out of engagement with the cylinder. The full flush stopper sealingly engages the opening in the tank. The cage, the cylinder, and the full flush stopper are movable together away from the opening in the tank. When this occurs the tank is fully flushed. The tank is half flushed when the half flush stopper is moved away from the cylinder.

Abstract: A water saver attachment for toilets being pivotally connected to selectively cover a drain pipe within a flush tank of the toilets. The water saver attachment includes a hollow L-shaped water weight box having a horizontal section with an open top side and a vertical section connected thereto. A support arm is connected to the hollow L-shaped water weight box and a cover is connected to the support arm. The water saver attachment is pivotally connected within the flush tank by a connection device. The water saver attachment is pivotable between a first at rest position in which the cover seals the drain pipe to prevent water from flowing therethrough and a second flushing position in which the water saver attachment is pivoted whereby the cover is pivoted to selectively allow water to flow through the drain pipe. The water saver attachment automatically pivots back to the first at rest position upon completion of flushing of the toilet to limit an amount of water flowing through the drain pipe.

Abstract: A heated therapeutic spa which comprises a spa tub containing water and having plumbing attached thereto, the tub having a wall which is a relatively good thermal conductor; a thermally efficient, insulating container comprising a load bearing outer wall, and a bottom wall; a plenum chamber formed between the tub wall and the container wall and extending about the tub wall; a motor and pump supplying circulating water to the tub and extending in the plenum chamber; a fan located to circulate air that converts heat from the motor into hot air exhausted into the plenum chamber; the fan operating to force the hot exhaust air to circulate around the tub wall, whereby the temperature of the air drops in flowing about the tub wall before returning to the motor.

Abstract: A shower curtain assembly having a vertically moveable flexible water barrier is disclosed wherein the water barrier is extendable from and retractable into a support assembly traversing an upper portion of a shower enclosure opening. Additionally, the support assembly is pivotally retractable to a vertical position adjacent a wall of the shower enclosure. Thus, in the retracted configuration, the shower enclosure opening is left unencumbered by the support assembly and the water barrier, and in an extended configuration wherein the support assembly is supported across the upper portion of the shower enclosure opening, the flexible water barrier can be extended downward to form a barrier to water escaping from the shower enclosure.

Abstract: A water diverter for placement in a water delivery spout, and a water delivery spout in association with the water diverter. The diverter has a water diverting member for directing water flowing through the spout to a selectable delivery destination, a temperature sensor to be disposed in the flowing water, and a temperature display for reporting the temperature of the water as measured by the temperature sensor. Preferably, the water diverter member, temperature sensor and temperature display are connected to each other, with a hand-operable knob disposed exteriorly of the spout to effectuate movement of the water diverting member while being in communication with the temperature sensor to thereby function as the temperature display.

Abstract: A convertible furniture that in one configuration is a bed and in another is a chair, coach or sofa, depending on its dimensions. Telescopically mounted housing members extend out a sufficient amount to define an upper surface over which cushions are positioned to provide a suitable horizontal resting surface. The upper surface is defined with hingedly mounted closure members that cover a storage cavities below. One of the closures at one end includes a frame with one of its sides being slidably mounted to the underside of the closure. The opposite side of the frame is hingedly mounted to the inner wall of the cavity of the largest housing member. The underside of the closure includes a stop member against which the sliding side of the frame engages when it reaches a predetermined position. Two cord or flexible elongated members are attached to the upper end of the frame so that a user by pulling it causes the collapse of the closure back to the horizontal position.

Abstract: Apparatus for aiding persons in rising or descending between seated and standing positions provides stability to a conventional walker. In a preferred embodiment, an apparatus has a platform portion and two flexible connection members. The platform portion is substantially rigid and includes two parallel rails. At forward end portions of the rails, openings are formed for pivotable attachment therethrough of the connection members. The connection members are also pivotably attached to a forward portion of the walker, so that when a person places his or her weight on the platform portion, the connection members transmit the weight to the walker, thereby stabilizing the walker.

Abstract: A bed cover assembly for a mattress is provided. The assembly includes a bottom sheet adapted for covering a top surface and sides of the mattress. A top sheet overlies the bottom sheet. Elastic attachment sections are provided along a perimeter portion of the top sheet for elastically interconnecting the top sheet and the bottom sheet together. The elastic sections cooperate with the top sheet and bottom sheet to form a resilient sleeping pocket around a bed occupant positioned therebetween. The elastic sections accommodate movement of the top sheet relative to the bottom sheet upon movement of the bed occupant while maintaining the top sheet in an assembled condition over the bottom sheet and mattress.

Abstract: Treatment apparatus supporting a patient lying in a generally prone or supine position for manipulation includes a base and a table supported thereabove for movement between selected different horizontal positions or working levels for treatment of the patient. The table is tiltable toward and away from an upright position for facilitating the patient in mounting and dismounting before and after treatment and includes a foot piece adjacent an end of the table for supporting the patient when mounting and dismounting. A plurality of cushions are mounted for movement along the table to selectably adjustable positions for accommodating patients of different size and shape.

Abstract: A water bag for a water bed, including a hollow shell dividing into two inflating chambers at two oposite ends and a plurality of transverse water chambers between the inflating chambers, and a plurality of air bags longitudinally mounted in the transverse water chambers in parallel and respectively connected between the inflating chambers.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the pressure of fluid within a chamber upon which a person rests includes a manifold having a wall defining an interior region in fluid communication with a source of pressurized fluid and an air sack defining the chamber. The air sack includes a wall defining an interior region of the air sack. The wall is formed to include an air loss opening in fluid communication with the interior region of the air sack. The apparatus also includes a flow control assembly having a conduit in fluid communication with the interior region of the air sack and with the interior region of the manifold. The flow control assembly also includes a check valve mounted in the conduit to prevent the flow of pressurized fluid through the conduit from the interior region of the air sack to the interior region of the manifold.

Abstract: A mattress wherein at least one fabric strip bridges a foam crib for an inflatable cushion to provide lateral stability thereto such as when the mattress is tilted for turning a patient over or otherwise. The fabric strip position is selected so as not to interfere with pressure relief to a portion of the patient's body where pressure ulcers frequently occur. In order to accurately and quickly monitor the tilt of a mattress, transmitting and receiving coils are provided on opposite sides of an assembly of lifting bladders for the side of the mattress being lifted, and the signal strength is measured when a signal is transmitted therebetween, and the angle of tilt is determined therefrom. In order to reduce exposure of lines leading to an inflatable mattress, a notch is provided in a crib for receiving a pump for pressurizing a cushion within the crib so that the pump is positioned to face exteriorly of the crib to allow heat dissipation.

Abstract: A washing method performed in a washing machine having a wash basket for containing wash water and a wash load includes the step of attaching a tile 10 of a ceramic material to the inside of the wash basket 12 so that the tile 10 is exposed to the wash water in the wash basket 12. A laundry tile 10 of ceramic material for use in the method is provided. It comprises a front side 14 and a rear side 18, wherein the front side 14 is at least partially unglazed. In one embodiment attachment strips 20,22 are provided for attaching the tile 10 by its rear side 18 to the inside of the wash basket 12 of a washing machine.

Abstract: A ramp for loading and unloading snowmobiles and other vehicles from a load bed such as a trailer or transport vehicle. The ramp comprises a pair of longitudinal tracks joined by a plurality of transverse members. Such transverse members are adapted to receive the wheels of the objects being transported or, in the case of snowmobiles, the belt grip thereof. In the case of snowmobiles, the skis of such vehicle are received on the longitudinal tracks. The ramp includes a pair of wheels for use in moving the ramp across the load bed. The wheels are positioned at a location on the ramp corresponding to the center of mass of such ramp when supporting the snowmobile or other such vehicle. The tracks of the ramp are preferably angled upwards to avoid contact with the load bed when being moved across same. The spacing of such tracks is adjustable so as to permit transport of the vehicles having a variety of widths.

Abstract: A gangway to accommodate passage from one floor, platform level, deck surface, or the like to another includes a rigid support structure defining a main frame assembly having a pair of longitudinal frame members extending in spaced, parallel relation to one another substantially along a length of the main frame assembly between opposite ends. A series of step members, each including a substantially flat top step surface, are supported transversely between the longitudinal frame members in close relation to one another; each of the step members being rotatable relative to the main frame assembly about a transverse axle.

Abstract: A pool sweep device comprised of two suction tubes that are attachable to a single suction pump. The suction pump preferably consists of a suction pump that is part of the pool's filtration system. The two suction tubes both define openings in a central plenum and the central plenum is in communication with a water intake opening or orifice. Water is sucked through the intake opening and the device is configured so that the intake opening is maintained in contact with the inner surfaces of the pool so that particulate matter resting on the inner surfaces of the pool can be sucked through the opening, the plenum and one of the suction tubes into the hose that is attached to the pool's suction pump. Positioned within the plenum is a wedge that moves between the two openings so as to alternatively cover one of the two openings. When an opening is covered, a suction force is exerted against the wedge which results in mechanical movement of the device over the inner surfaces of the pool.

Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning work pieces is disclosed, having a tub structure wherein cleaning liquid is introduced and a predetermined number of play balls are placed. A motor is coupled to the supporting frame. The motor generates the power to a brush mechanism which comprises an arm and a pair of brushes, with the arm's first end coupled to the first brush and the second end coupled to the second brush. The link between the motor and the brush mechanism is provided by a drive shaft structure. The drive shaft structure is substantially vertical, meeting the arm of the brush mechanism at a right angle. When the motor is functioning, the brush mechanism is activated and the brushes will clean the work pieces for a predetermined time. Once cleaning is complete, the supporting frame is rolled to one side of the tub structure and the work pieces may be removed.

Abstract: An electrically operated oscillatory toothbrush comprises generally a housing, a motor in the housing, an actuator, an oscillator and a sleeve member sequentially secured to the top of the housing and protected by a cap member, and a toothbrush secured into the upper portion of the cap member. The character of this disclosure is that the sleeve member has a transverse slot in cooperation with a recoil spring connected between the oscillator and the sleeve member so as to limit the oscillator to swing within a certain range of angle in order that the toothbrush oscillates with intermittent elastic vibrations to an extent to perfectly clean a user's teeth.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush is disclosed having a power driven rotary brush in which the direction of rotation of the brush is automatically controlled depending on whether the top or the bottom teeth are being brushed in order to brush any food debris present on the teeth and gums in a direction away from the gums. The toothbrush of the present invention utilizes a direction controller that is placed inside the mouth between the top and bottom teeth. The direction controller controls the direction of brush rotation and serves to stabilize the toothbrush relative to the teeth during the brushing operation. The movement of the direction controller operates a reversing switch to change the direction of rotation of the brush as required to brush in a direction away from the gums and towards the teeth without removing the toothbrush from the mouth.

Abstract: A cleaning member having reduced manufacturing cost is provided for effectively sweeping out fine dust, pieces of thread, pieces of cotton waste and the like, and otherwise improving dust collecting performance. The cleaning members for cleaning areas nearby walls are fitted to a floor cleaner that stirs up dust on the surface of a floor by means of a rotary member mounted on its main body casing. The floor cleaner receives and contains the stirred-up dust in dust collecting chambers. The cleaning member includes a mounting section which is molded integrally from a soft and flexible material and which is for mounting the cleaning member onto the main body casing, and at least one downwardly extending plate.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for handling a brush head for cleaning the surfaces of large objects like aircraft, ships or buildings. The handling device has a multi-joint assembly carrying a brush head (18) on the end extension (14) of an angled mast (13) having, extending from the end extension (14), three motor-driven rotary units (60, 62, 64) arranged one behind the other and having alternately perpendicular axes (60', 62', 64') and a motor-driven telescopic linear unit (66') secured to the last rotary unit (64) and aligned with its axis of rotation (64'). In order to ensure that the brush roller is always perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned along its entire travel, even at points which are difficult of access, the invention proposes that axes (60', 66') of the rotary unit (60) on the end extension side and of the linear unit (66) be arranged in laterally staggered, mutually parallel planes.

Abstract: A semiconductor processing system, such as a system for scrubbing both sides of a wafer at the same time, that includes a brush box containment apparatus for use with highly-acidic or other volatile chemical solutions, a roller positioning apparatus and a (brush) placement device.