Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Heather plant named `Amethyst`, characterized by its dark purple flower buds; upright plant habit which allows for ease of mechanical pruning; freely branching habit; strong stems; and good keeping quality at low temperatures.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Heather plant named `Alicia`, characterized by its large, pure white flower buds; upright plant habit which allows for ease of mechanical pruning; freely branching habit; strong stems; and good keeping quality at low temperatures.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Hibiscus plant named `Light Wind`, characterized by its very dark leaves; long leaf petioles; upright and compact, uniform and symmetrical plant habit; very freely branching; freely flowering with numerous light pink-colored flowers with white throat color; long peduncles; good resistance to flower bud abscission; and excellent postproduction longevity.

Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Hibiscus plant named `Kona Wind`, characterized by its very dark green leaves; upright and outwardly spreading, uniform and symmetrical plant habit; early flowering; freely flowering, numerous bright orange and golden yellow-colored flowers with dark red throats; good resistance to flower bud abscission; and excellent postproduction longevity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of the Compositae family, Osteospermum fruticosum (L.) Norl., common name Cape Daisy, denominated `Highside.`The new variety is distinguished from its parents and all other members of the genera known to the inventor by: the ability of its flower heads to remain open in low light conditions, its distinctive coloring--the ray florets being red-purple and the disk florets being violet blue; its strong peduncles; and its dwarf, vigorous, medium-spreading growth habit.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of the Compositae family, Osteospermum fruticosum (L.) Norl., common name Cape Daisy, denominated `Brightside.`The new variety is distinguished from its parents and all other members of the genera known to the inventor by: the ability of its flower heads to remain open in low light conditions, its distinctive coloring -- the ray florets being pure white and the disk florets being violet blue; its strong peduncles; and its dwarf, vigorous, broad-spreading growth habit.

Abstract: A new and distinct variety of Pulmonaria having uniquely ruffled leaf margins and raspberry-pink flowers.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Lysimachia punctata plant named `Alexander`, characterized by its upright, vigorous and freely branching growth habit; green and cream-white variegated foliage; numerous yellow flowers that flower continuously throughout the summer; and good garden performance.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Dahlia plant named `Gallery Pablo`, characterized by its suitability for potted plants, garden or patio plants, or as cut flowers; upright and spreading, compact and freely branching plant habit; medium green foliage; early and profuse flowering; rapid growth rate; decorative-type inflorescences that are about 10 cm in diameter; yellow and dark pink bi-colored ray florets; and good postproduction longevity.

Abstract: A distinct cultivar of Dracaena plant named `Riki`, characterized by its upright and outwardly arching growth habit; striking dark green and yellowish green variegated leaves that are thick, strong and leathery; and excellent post-production longevity.

Abstract: A conversion efficiency of a catalyst is estimated by a correlation function concerning output signals of upper and down stream side air fuel ratio sensors. The conversion efficiency is measured by comparing the correlation function and a complementary value of the correlation function with a comparing standard value.

Abstract: An offset strip fin for use in compact automotive heat exchangers is disclosed. The offset strip fin has multiple transverse rows of corrugations extending in the axial direction wherein the corrugations in adjacent rows overlap in order that the oil boundary layer is continually re-started. The fin dimensions have been optimized in order to achieve superior ratio of heat transfer to pressure drop along the axial direction. In one aspect, .?.an.!. .Iadd.a .Iaddend.compact concentric tube heat exchanger has an offset set strip tin located in an annular fluid flow passageway located between a pair of concentric tubes. The preferred range of lanced lengths is determined to be between 0.035" to 0.075" for periodically developed flow. Maintaining the lanced length in the regime of periodically developed flow is advantageous in that it gives a higher heat transfer coefficient than is achievable with fully developed flow.

Abstract: A method of increasing the near-wellbore permeability of porous formation comprises exposing formation to an elevated temperature of .?.400.degree..!. .Iadd.600.degree. .Iaddend.C. or greater to cause dehydration of the clay lattices, vaporization of any blocked water, mud filtrate or other fluids, and/or destruction of the clay structure.

Abstract: A defoaming or antifoaming composition comprises a free flowing granular combinate of 50 to 90 weight percent of a water soluble carbohydrate-based agglomerate selected from the group consisting of maltodextrin agglomerates, maltodextrin/dextrose co-agglomerates, dextrose agglomerates, maltodextrin/sucrose co-agglomerates, maltodextrin/fructose co-agglomerates, sucrose agglomerates, fructose agglomerates, mannitol agglomerates, sorbitol agglomerates, agglomerates of hydrolyzed cereal solids, and agglomerates of corn syrup solids and about 10 to 50 weight percent of a liquid, nonaqueous, defoaming or antifoaming composition such as simethicone, hydrocarbon-based oils or silicone oils. The composition may be combined with one or more suitable excipients and prepared as a unit dosage in the form of a compressed tablet, filled capsule, packet, or granule for various defoaming applications.

Abstract: Molded articles having contoured, decorative outer surfaces are disclosed. The articles comprise a molded polymer substrate and a decorative surfacing film adhered to one side of the substrate. The decorative surfacing film comprises a substantially molecularly unoriented cast polymer film formed from a weatherable polymer. The articles are particularly suited for use as automobile body panels and the like. Also disclosed is a method for making such articles, and a method for making sets of such articles for assembly into automobile bodies and the like.

Abstract: A garment for use in electronically-scored, contact-sports competitions is described. The garment is in the form of a fencing jacket or vest, is substantially wireless, and is woven from electrically conductive threads which cooperate with an electric sports implement to register a score when the implement contacts the electrically conductive garment. The fabric can be woven with the electrically-conductive threads extending in only one of the warp and weft directions, and preferably only in the weft direction.

Abstract: A device which improves the method for identifying athletes during sporting activities, particularly practices and physical education classes, comprised of a wide colored garment worn around the midsection of the participant. An elastic belt having cloth panels attached and hanging therefrom is pulled around the waist of the participant and fastened by means of hook and loop or other simple attachment. It provides freedom of motion when worn, while being easy to put on and remove. The highly visible surface area is nearly continuous and allows teachers, referees, participants, scorers, coaches, fans, and the like to differentiate between the various athletes.

Abstract: A water-tight diving suit has the edges of the open extremities of the sleeves and the trousers of the suit and the neck provided with a hem which is folded inwards and secured, for example by stitching, to the inside edge of the suit, so as to form a tubular pocket. A tape-like stiffening element made of elastomeric material is housed inside this pocket. The suit can be made as a one-piece or two-piece suit. In the case of one-piece suits, which combine both jacket and trouser parts, these have, in the region of the access opening which can be closed by a zipper, an edge with a hem folded inwards and secured, for example by stitching, to the inside edge of the suit, so as to form a tubular pocket, inside which a tape-like element made of elastomeric material is housed. The suit may be further provided with a separate hood.

Abstract: A multi-layer disposable bib is provided. The layers of material of the bib are ultrasonically bonded together. The first layer is located at the exterior surface of the bib and is made of a lightweight, non-woven material which is tear resistant. The second and third layers are composed of highly absorbent tissue paper to absorb liquids. The fourth layer is a waterproof, polypropylene film that is impermeable to liquids and also provides additional strength to the bib. The fifth layer is located at the other exterior surface of the bib and is made of the same lightweight, non-woven material as the first layer. The two outer layers of non-woven material are soft to the touch and liquid permeable. The bib may be adjustably secured about one's neck by means of straps which extend from the bib and which include an adhesive tab for attaching the straps together.

Abstract: The present invention relates to clothing specifically designed for incapacitated or bedridden patients. The clothing includes trousers, shorts, a shirt and an undergarment each having separable seams allowing the garments to be easily removed from a patient with minimal movement or manipulation of the patient's body. Each garment has an integrated moisture detection means which will emit an audible alarm upon sensing a predetermined amount of moisture. The clothing also has a temperature detecting means, for instantaneously providing the patient's body temperature, removably attached thereto. Preferably, each garment is constructed with a fabric like material that has been pretreated with an antibacterial, an anti-fugal or an antiviral agent in order to minimize bed sores, skin rashes and other skin irritations.

Abstract: A removable clothing conjoiner to attach the waistband of a pants or skirt to a user's shirt or blouse. The base of the conjoiner is made of a material or dimensioned so that it is stiffer in one direction than the other, with the stiffer direction being aligned vertically, thereby preventing rolling, folding, or bunching of the material during use while allowing flexibility in the horizontal direction. The base is coated with adhesive, and the adhesive is covered by removable liners which the user peels off when applying the conjoiner to his/her clothing. The removal tab permits easy separation of the liners from the conjoiner and also permits easy removal of the conjoiner from the clothing so that it can be discarded after use.

Abstract: A device for the storage of valuables in decorative fabric neckwear consisting of a hidden or stealth storage pocket removably attached to decorative neckwear such as a tie, scarf, ascot, or kerchief. The dismountable storage pocket may be removed and reattached to one or multiple pieces of neckwear having fasteners such as buttons, snaps, hook and loop, or other conventional fasteners mounted in positions corresponding to mating fasteners mounted upon the storage pocket. The dismountable storage pocket may be removed and remounted to many different pieces of decorative neckwear as a unit, without disturbing the contents of the storage pocket allowing the storage pocket to function as a wallet or purse for valuables while concurrently offering a non obvious hiding place for valuables or other contents.

Abstract: A glove which supports and stabilizes the wrist and hand during sports and includes:an inner glove conforming to the hand, fingers and thumb,an outer glove conforming to the hand, fingers and thumb from the wrist beyond the finger and thumb joints;a first wrist strap surrounding the wrist Having an opening positioned to accommodate the distal ulna head protrusion; anda second wrist strap attached to the thumb side of the outer glove and extending diagonally across the back of the hand, and then around and encompassing the front and back of the wrist over the first strap.

Abstract: A new Weighted Golf Glove for improving a golfer's golf swing and thereby helping a golfer improve his or her golf game. The inventive device includes a glove including a palm portion, a back portion, finger stalls, a thumb stall, and a wrist portion cooperatively joined together to fit a wearer's hand and a pocket provided intermediate the wrist portion and the thumb stall of the glove wherein the pocket is adapted for receiving and holding a generally flexible conforming weight capable of conforming in use to the shape of the ball of the thumb of a wearer's hand.

Abstract: A folding hat includes a crown and a brim which extends around the entire periphery of the crown. The brim is relatively stiff and flat so that it extends outwardly from the crown. The brim is provided with a hinge for folding the brim into a compact configuration for storage.

Abstract: A hat or other headgear having a cord, preferably an elongated flexible plastic tube, with a portion extending across the interior of the hat between opposite sides of a lower portion of the crown, at a location to contact the user's forehead and position the hat relative thereto, with the forehead contacting portion of the cord being spaced rearwardly of the lower portion of the crown at the front of the hat to define a front air circulation space through which air can flow upwardly and downwardly between the crown and the cord. At opposite ends of the forehead contacting portion, the cord extends through openings in opposite sides of the hat and then downwardly to form a chin strap. The hat may have an additional air circulation opening, desirably near the rear of the hat, formed by a generally horizontal slit in a generally vertical wall of the hat, with a lower portion of the wall being deformed inwardly beneath the slit.

Abstract: An instantaneous reversible scarf consisting of a neckpiece, built out of two similar patterns (1 and 2), and a bib or chestpiece, constructed of 2 similar patterns (13,14), and a hook 15. Patterns 1 and 13, and patterns 2 and 14 are fastenened separately prior to constructing the scarf. The single pieces obtained from fastening the conjugate patterns are then fastened together so as to construct a single double sided piece having a chestpiece and a neckpiece. A fastener 16 and its mate 17 are placed on opposite ends and opposite faces of neckpiece and a hook 15 is attached to the resulting shape for ease of storing.

Abstract: A skirt suitable for cheerleading is described which is formed by a body and a waistband. The body forms the main section of the skirt and attached along its top edge to the waistband which fits snugly to the wearer's waist, yet still allows for extreme athletic movements. The waistband is formed by an elastic band attached at its ends to two fabric ends which are connected to each other by a closure mechanism such as a button. The elastic band is protected and concealed by a cover material which forms a passageway through which the elastic band passes. The fabric ends and the cover material are attached to the top edge of the body of the skirt to act as the waistband. The elastic band is not permanently attached to the body or the cover material to allow it to stretch freely in response to movements by the wearer. The body of the skirt includes another closure mechanism such as a zipper which works in conjunction with the button on the fabric ends to allow the skirt to be easily put on and taken off.

Abstract: A swimming goggle structure includes two frames each having a lens fixed therein with a bridge connecting between inner sides of the frames. The bridge comprises a bendable insert embedded therein and substantially extending across the bridge to provide conformity of the bridge to a wearer's nose contour.

Abstract: A pair of swimming goggles includes two lenses formed of transparent rigid material, a goggle frame for receiving the lenses, and a length-adjustable strap having two ends attached to one of the goggle frame and the lenses. Each lens includes a peripheral surface formed therearound and extended inwardly to provide an increased visual angle, and a flange is formed around the peripheral surface. Each lens further includes a rigid engaging section having a hook formed thereon. The goggle frame is integrally formed of plastic material and includes two rings interconnected by a connecting section. Each ring includes an annular groove defined in an annular periphery thereof for receiving the flange of an associated lens. Each ring further includes an protective wall for close contact with an eye socket. The connecting section includes two engaging recesses for respectively, securely receiving the hooks on the lenses.

Abstract: Protective goggles having a rigid, ballistically resistant transparent shield sealingly fittable over the eyes of a wearer via a resilient gasket having airing ports and a head gear for supporting the goggles. A second transparent radiation protective shield is detachably retained exterior to the ballistically resistant shield and in parallel relation thereto with impervious sealing means provided between both shields along their peripheries so as to provide an air-tight space therebetween.

Abstract: An electronic air oxidizer deodorizing system includes an air conduit including inlet and outlet ends. The air conduit houses therein a zapper comprising a pair of spaced apart highly charged electrodes which create an electrical discharge therebetween. A blower is also provided for drawing air through the inlet end and past the electrodes.

Abstract: A sectional toilet seat and a method of using such a seat by disabled individuals. The toilet seat includes a lower seat member that supports an upper seat member having a removable section, with the removable section constituting less than a majority of the seating surface of the upper seat member. The method involves removing an upper seat section, transferring a person onto the remaining upper seat member and replacing the removed upper seat section while the person is supported by remaining upper seat member.

Abstract: A sanitary unit such as a child's potty or a commode for the elderly or infirm, includes a container (13) for receiving human waste. A seat (24) is arranged relative to the container such that waste from a person sitting on the seat is received in the container. A water reservoir (10) communicates with the container by way of a valve (12). A valve actuator is responsive to the weight of a person sitting on the seat so as to open the valve and to release water from the reservoir into the container in response to a person sitting on the seat.

Abstract: A foot-operated device for the flushing valve of a wall-mounted urinal is shown. The device has a spring-biassed vertical rod which is connected to a pivot bar installed at the flushing valve of the urinal. The flushing valve may be actuated by a foot pedal provided at the lower end of the vertical rod. All components of the device is located in a spaced manner from the washroom floor such that they are not subject to contamination by water and other corrosive substances that are present on the washroom floor.

Abstract: A toilet including a frame defining a chamber, a toilet bowl disposed within the chamber between an upper and a lower chamber region, and a tilting bowl in the lower chamber region of the frame. The toilet bowl has a lower discharge opening in communication between the upper and lower chamber regions. The tilting bowl defines a fluid-receiving volume, and is mounted for pivoting movement relative to the toilet bowl between a first position with the fluid-receiving volume at least partially overlapping the toilet bowl and containing the lower discharge opening, and a second position permitting flow of fluid from the toilet bowl, through the lower discharge opening, and from the fluid-receiving volume into the lower chamber region. At standby, the tilting bowl, in first position, retains a first volume of fluid sufficient to engage the lower discharge opening and restrict flow of gas therethrough.

Abstract: A pressure flush system for use within a toilet tank includes a pressure flush tank which has an air inlet and a water inlet. Water is maintained with the pressure flush tank under air pressure. There is a water discharge for said tank to direct water to a toilet bowl. The tank contains a flushing valve system, which, when operated, will direct water under air pressure through said water discharge opening. The water discharge includes a housing which is attached to the bottom of the pressure flush tank and there is a one way check valve in the water discharge housing and located outside of the pressure flush tank. The one way check valve prevents water passing therethrough when the pressure flush tank is discharged and it permits the draining of water outside of the pressure flush tank and within the toilet tank through the water discharge opening.

Abstract: An apparatus for the self draining of a pool cover includes a pool cover having a surface area that is at a lower elevation than a remaining surface area of the pool cover to remove accumulations from the pool cover by gravity. A drain fitting having a passageway is attached to the aperture in the pool cover. A first hose, to remove accumulations, is connected to the drain fittings. There is also provided in the apparatus disposal means which include an outlet on a wall of the pool and a second hose on the other side of the wall connected to the outlet. Accumulations flowing through the first hose exit the pool through the pool wall for final disposal by a second hose to direct where desired.

Abstract: An improved insulated cover is provided for removable mounting onto a spa or hot tub or the like to minimize thermal and evaporative losses, while additionally safeguarding against foreign objects and/or persons falling into the tub. In the preferred form, the insulated cover comprises a frame ring in combination with a structural membrane stretched across the frame ring with a peripheral margin of the membrane wrapped over the outer rim and radially constricted for retention thereon by a drawstring or the like. The constricted drawstring additionally secures an insulation plate or disk relative to the structural membrane and frame ring. The insulation plate fits with close clearance into the spa tub, when the frame ring is supported on the top of the tub wall. An outer insulation skirt may also be provided to project downwardly about the tub wall.

Abstract: A method for installing a liner in a swimming pool including a wall having a liner edge retainer extending along the upper periphery. With the pool containing water, an edge of a liner is attached to the retainer at a first position on the wall and a pulling device is attached to the liner edge at a position opposite the retainer attachment. The pulling device is manipulated to drag the liner along the pool bottom and up the wall to a position opposite the first position where the edge is then attached to the retainer. A substantial portion of the pool water is scooped up in the liner and the remaining water can be pumped from between the wall and liner. The method can be used to install a second liner over an existing first liner by using different liner edge retainers. More than one embodiment of the pulling device is disclosed.

Abstract: A patient transferring apparatus comprised of an elongated board portion having a flat bottom level and two side walls extending upwardly from opposing side edges of the flat bottom level. The flat bottom level and the two side walls define a pair of end portions. The elongated board portion has a top level secured between the two side walls tangential to the flat bottom level. A pair of rollers are rotatably secured within each of the pair of end portions of the elongated board portion. An endless belt extends about the pair of rollers and being movable with respect to the pair of rollers.

Abstract: A portable patient lift assembly (10) for lifting and transporting a patient comprises a base (12), a support frame (18) extending vertically upward to top ends (20) and a lift frame (28) extending outwardly in a cantilevered fashion from a cross beam (26), and interconnecting the top ends (20). The support frame (18) includes a pair of vertical legs (22) and angled leg braces (24) which are spaced at the base (12) but overlap at the cross beam (26). The lift frame (28) includes one pair of braces (34) extending horizontally between the lift frame (28) and the joint at the ends of the cross beam (26) and the legs (22) and the leg braces (24). A second pair of braces (32) braces the lift frame (28) to the leg braces (24).

Abstract: An adjustable bed, suitable for use from infancy to adulthood includes a bed frame body having pivoting end panels and a height adjustable base. In one adjusted position, with the end panels pivoted to near vertical and the height adjustable base fully raised, the bed is swingable like a cradle, with the bed frame body swingably suspended from the height adjustable base. By lowering the height adjustable base, the near vertical end panels contact the floor, and the bed is useful as a playpen for an infant or a chair for an adult. By pivoting the end panels to intermediate or horizontal positions, the bed becomes useful as a lounge chair or as a bed for a child. With the height adjustable base at its lowest, and the end panels pivoted to horizontal positions, the bed may be used as a rigid support for an adult mattress.

Abstract: A foldable cradle includes a pair of frames pivotally coupled together at a pivot shaft for allowing the frames to be rotated about the pivot shaft and to be rotated between an open position and a folded position. One of the frames includes a beam secured on top and two rods secured to the beam and perpendicular to the beam. A flexible support of soft weaving material is secured to the rods for comfortably supporting the baby and for allowing the parents to hold the baby without disturbing the baby when the baby fall asleep.

Abstract: A rail apparatus is configured to be mounted to a frame of a bed. The apparatus includes a siderail, a support having a first end pivotably coupled to the siderail and a second end, and a bottom mounting pivotably coupled to the second end of the support. The bottom mounting including at least one mounting bracket for coupling the bottom mounting to the frame of the bed, and an accessory rail configured to permit mounting of accessory items on the rail apparatus.

Abstract: An improved dust ruffle or fabric skirt design is provided, which is readily placeable about and removable from a bed or other structures in the home. The skirt comprises an elongated fabric sleeve having a first end and a second end and includes an outer fabric wall and an inner fabric wall. The fabric walls define an elongated passage in which an elongated elastic tape member is received intermediate the two walls. The tape member is elasticized in order to provide, when stretched and in place around a box spring or other structure, an inwardly directed force against the inner fabric wall in order that the skirt or ruffle can be fixed in place on a bedding assembly, a furniture piece, or some other home fixture. The tape member may be removed from the passageway of the fabric sleeve before washing or laundering the skirt or dust ruffle.

Abstract: A rest portion is used to support a load at an adjustable height relative to a base which is connected to the rest portion by a pivotal linkage. A hydraulic ram coupled to a gas spring cylinder applies a spring force between the linkage and the base, the geometry of the linkage and ram being such that the upward component of spring force is invariant with respect to height adjustment. A control valve allows the ram to be locked at a selected height and the spring force provided by the gas spring is adjustable by movement of a second piston within the gas spring cylinder to vary the available volume of gas. A hydraulic pump is used to supply hydraulic fluid to the cylinder for adjusting movement of the second cylinder. The apparatus is suited for use in a chair-bed enabling a patient to be supported at an adjustable height during medical treatment.

Abstract: A variable force clutch for use with a linear actuator power screw assembly including a threaded drive screw with a stop member secured at each end, the screw assembly used in an application apparatus having at least one cable provided with a barreled end for engaging the assembly. The clutch includes a nut configured for engagement in the bore and having a threaded interior surface for engaging the threads of the drive screw, a grooved exterior surface, upper and lower ends each having a stop lug, the nut being vertically movable resulting from axial rotation of the screw. At least one variable force clutch dog has a grooved formation for slidingly engaging the grooves on the nut, and a cable end retainer configured for securely retaining a barreled cable end.

Abstract: A bed comprises an inflatable mattress supported on a platform of articulable links by a support system mounted on a weigh frame. The weigh frame is supported on a base frame supported relative to a floor. A pneumatic system includes a platform-mounted blower directing air through passageways in the articulable links. An exhaust passageway parallels the pressure passageway for exhausting opposite the blower. Air flow into and out of air cells in the mattress are controlled by valves coupling the pressurized air chamber and exhaust chamber to cell ports. A connector assembly is used to couple the cells to the platform, to adjacent cells, and to tubes connected to other cells. An alternative pneumatic system includes fans distributed on the platform in association with sets of mattress cells. A footboard assembly is formed as two gates that swing out from the foot of the bed. Each gate has a storable tray that is positionable on either side of the gate.

Abstract: A leg holder system for simultaneously positioning in the abduction and lithotomy dimensions including a support device for supporting a leg cradle; a clamping device for mounting the proximate end of the support device to a mounting device having a first axis and selectively clamping and releasing motion of the support device about the first axis and about a second axis transverse to the first axis. An actuator device for actuating the clamp to selectively clamp and release simultaneously the support device and the mounting device; and an operator device remote from the clamping device and actuator device for operating the actuator device to enable the support device to move simultaneously about the first and second axis in both the lithotomy and abduction dimensions.