Abstract: An aquatic sports garment having an outer layer, provided with at least one multi-layered zone including at least the outer layer and an underlying layer which, in a protective zone, lines the skin in an elastically deformable manner so as to protect it from contact with the outer layer, in that the underlying layer has a fixing zone, whereby it is fixed directly or indirectly to the outer layer, and wherein, at least in the protective zone, the two layers are free from one another.

Abstract: An air driven muscle toning garment including a suit of lightweight, breathable, moderately elastic material that covers the body from just above the knees to just below the neckline and along the arms to the wrists. Low-elasticity supports are integrated into the suit at several places so that attachmnents can be secured to the suit at key points; these attachments are connected in pairs by pull-through air bladders, which when pressurized pull the pairs of points toward each other, and resist the muscles which oppose the points that are pulled together by the pull-through air bladder mechanisms.

Abstract: A waterproof relief outlet in a breathable chest wader consisting of a zipper having a zipper portion capable of movement from a closed position to an open position, wherein the zipper prevents water from entering the interior of the chest wader when the zipper portion is in said closed position. The wearer of the breathable chest wader thereby has means for relieving himself without having to substantially remove the waders and/or any undergarments. Further, this is accomplished in a highly simplified manner, wherein the wearer need only to grab a tab coupled to a slide fastener of the zipper portion in order to move the zipper portion from the closed position to the open position.

Abstract: A mechanical counter pressure glove system, that can be used in low-pressure environments such as outer space, is provided. The system includes a low friction base glove defining an internal volume for receiving a hand of a wearer. A pressure inducing glove is donned on the low friction glove so as to apply a mechanical pressure on the hand. The low friction material of the base glove facilitates donning of the pressure inducing glove.

Abstract: A counter pressure glove system, that can be used in low pressure environments such as outer space, is provided. The system includes a pressure member, pressure inducing glove and a support member. The pressure member is disposed on the dorsal metacarpals and the palmar knuckles of a hand of a wearer. The pressure member applies a predetermined amount of pressure against the dorsal metacarpals and the palmar knuckles. The pressure inducing glove is donned on the hand. The pressure inducing glove applies a second predetermined pressure against the pressure member as well as against the exposed regions of the hand that are not covered by the pressure member. The support member is disposed on the pressure inducing glove and inhibits lateral and vertical displacement of the pressure member.

Abstract: Disclosed is a glove having a restraining loop attached to the outer peripheral edge of the index finger. The golfer grips a golf club with the little finger of the opposite hand inserted into the restraining loop. When wearing the glove, the golfer is prevented from shifting his hands while gripping the golf club and the proper alignment of the golfer's knuckles is maintained throughout the entire swing. The glove may also be used for baseball and other uses.

Abstract: A glove for pumping gasoline includes an outer layer defining an exterior surface and an interior surface. The exterior surface is adapted for direct contact with objects exterior to the glove, and the interior surface is adapted to define a volume for receiving a hand. The glove is substantially leak-proof and defines a digits portion for covering substantially the fingers and the thumb of the hand and a palm portion for covering substantially the remainder of the hand. The glove is adapted to be partially reversible upon removal from the hand such that the digits portion is disposed substantially entirely within the resulting volume defined by and interior to the palm portion upon turning the interior surface outward so that gasoline disposed upon the digits portion is substantially disposed within the resulting volume defined by and interior to the palm portion.

Abstract: A tanning bed cap includes a pliant body having at least one layer, an interior cavity and a head receiving opening providing access to the interior cavity. The layer is either one of an insulating material, a reflective material or both. The head receiving opening has a peripheral elastic, whereby the head receiving opening engages a head of a person wearing the cap. The tanning bed cap protects ones hair from ultraviolet radiation.

Abstract: A product and process involving pants having customized bands or stripes at their sides. The pants include gaps extending down the sides of the legs. A decorative band fits within the gap and is attached by continuous fasteners, such as zippers and/or discrete fasteners, such as snaps. The process comprises acquiring a relatively small inventory of pants of different sizes, acquiring a relatively large inventory of decorative bands of different colors and/or designs, and receiving and fulfilling orders for the customized pants by inserting and attaching the bands within the gaps as needed to fulfill orders.

Abstract: A protective helmet includes: a shell, a headband with an absorbent brow pad, and a suspension. A key is secured to each end of each of the straps of the suspension for insertion into respective key sockets spaced about the periphery of the shell of the protective helmet along its lower edge. Of particular importance to the protective helmet of the present invention, many (if not all) of the keys are molded directly to and around a strap, rather than sewn to the strap. In the method of the present invention, lengths of strap material are positioned in a mold, and plastic is injected into the mold cavity to encapsulate the straps and form the plastic component, e.g., a key for the suspension of the protective helmet. A trimming die is used to trim any webbing scrap between parts or other extraneous materials resulting from the molding of the plastic component to the straps.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for avoiding the onset of eye discomfort while performing prolonged near point activities such as use of a computer or reading. The method of the invention comprises creation of a high periocular relative humidity over the surface of the eyes when engaged in prolonged near point activities. Preferably, the relative humidity is maintained at least at eighty percent and preferably at least at ninety percent. The increased humidity maintains the thickness of the lipid layer during such activity thereby reducing evaporation from the tear film. The high periocular relative humidity is desirably achieved using frames over the eye to encase the eye in a confined but controlled atmosphere.

Abstract: A liquid delivery device is particularly suited for dosing a toilet bowl with a viscous cleaning agent. Liquid from a reservoir 10 flows through a neck 52 into a cup 18 until the liquid level reaches the mouth 54 of the neck 52. The space 14 in cup 18 is open to atmosphere. Liquid is drawn from the cup 18 by a capillary 66 formed between the wall of cup 18 and an insert 60 and delivered on to the surface 72 of a textile layer 6. Flush water runs over textile layer 6 to carry the liquid into a toilet bowl.

Abstract: A cleaning dispenser assembly to be used in connection with a toilet tank is coupled to a fill valve and an overflow tube of the tank. The dispenser assembly includes a container with a removable lid. A refill tube is coupled to a fill valve of the tank and the container. Tall and short discharge tubes are coupled to the container at different heights to facilitate the withdrawal of fluid from the container while preventing a vacuum from developing within the closed container. U-traps are formed in the refill tube and the discharge tubes to retain a portion of liquid in a steady state so as to seal the passageways in order to prevent gases from escaping into the tank.

Abstract: A waste outlet device adopted for use with a urinal and comprising one-way valve means is disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for flushing a WC bowl, the apparatus allowing reflushing of the bowl soon after the first flushing without filling the water tank to the maximum volume determined by an electric sensor. The movement of a piston part (4) located in a chamber (5) communicating with the water distribution system is controlled by means of a control mechanism (2) operating under the dynamic pressure of supply water and by the force of gravity, this movement, in turn, controlling the movement of the discharge valve (15) and thus regulating the flushing step.

Abstract: A drain assembly for a pool cover which includes a drain fitting positioned in a hole formed in the pool cover; a screen connected to the pool cover and positioned above the drain fitting to minimize the amount of debris entering the drain fitting; a barrier assembly connected to the pool cover adjacent to a perimeter of the screen to maintain a predetermined volume of water on the pool cover; and a flexible conduit connected at a first end to an outlet end of the drain fitting. A second end of the conduit is connected to an opening formed in a side of the pool. The barrier assembly includes a tubular shaped buoyant material housed within a pocket formed by two sections of material.

Abstract: A swimming pool cover for extension over and retraction from a swimming pool and where the cover may engage a portion of the deck surrounding the swimming pool during movement thereof. The swimming pool cover comprises a flexible fabric sheet of the type capable of being spooled or rolled and capable of being unrolled to extend over a swimming pool. The swimming pool cover is comprised of a sheet having a top surface and a bottom surface with the bottom surface extending over and potentially in contact with the upper surface of the water in the swimming pool. In order to reduce frictional effects between the bottom surface of the swimming pool cover and the upper surface of the deck, the swimming pool cover is provided with a surface configuration which is roughened to substantially reduce surface area contact of the sheet with the deck of the swimming pool. In this way, frictional effects between the cover and the deck are reduced during movement thereof.

Abstract: A shower has an elongated C-section holder tube having a laterally open full-length slot open at both ends, a bracket securing the holder tube to the wall, and a shower head. The head has a guide part snugly engageable in and slidable along the holder tube, a narrow neck projecting laterally from the guide part out of the tube through the slot thereof, and a spray part provided with spray holes and mounted on the neck outside the tube. A hose has an inner end connected to the guide part and communicating therethrough with the spray part and an outer end connectable to a source of water under pressure for spraying water from the holes of the spray part. The head is slidable along the holder tube with the hose extending from the guide part inside the holder tube and out of the open end of the holder tube.

Abstract: The head and face washing apparatus of the invention is designed to prevent scattering of fluid and enhance the washing efficiency. The head and face washing apparatus comprises pumps (103a to 103d) for supplying washing fluid through supply pipes (101a to 110d), plural spouts (105) for ejecting the washing fluid, and supply passages (106a to 106d) for supplying the washing fluid supplied through the supply pipes (101a to 101d) into the specified spout (105). Washing fluid is continuously pumped out from the pump (103a), while washing fluid is pumped out intermittently from the pumps. (103b to 103d). As a result, a continuous water stream is ejected from the spout group (105a), and an intermittent water stream is ejected from the spout groups (105b to 105d).

Abstract: A P-trap device for plumbing drainage systems is shown. The device has a first tubing element having a pipe attachment bell at one end and a first coupler portion at the other end and a second tubing element having a pipe attachment bell at one end and a second coupler portion at the other end, wherein said first and second coupler portions are sized and shaped to be coupled together. The device further has at least one of said first or second tubing element being a generally unshaped section sized and shaped to trap water therein. A connector to releasably couple said first and second coupler portions together is included, the connector including a sealing gasket. The sealing gasket, first coupling portion and second coupling portion are sized and shaped to permit the first and second coupler portions to be coupled together over a range of angles to form a leak resistant joint without introducing stresses into the plumbing system.

Abstract: A hospital bed is provided for support of a patient. The hospital bed includes a base, a patient support coupled to the base, and a walker dockable to the patient support.

Abstract: A connection structure for the frames of a playpen including an upper frame, a lower frame and four corner posts. The upper frame is composed of four collapsible rails each having a pair of flat end portions respectively pivoted to the upper portion of the posts, each post being covered by one of four corner members. Four foot members are secured to the lower end of the posts respectively. The lower frame is of a conventional structure which has an octagonal hub at the lower center of the playpen, four elongate rods, each respectively pivoted between the hub and one of the four foot members to make a cross configuration, a pair of collapsible transverse rods spacedly pivoted between the adjacent elongate rods parallel to each other, and a strap connecting the transverse rods through the top of the octagonal hub. When the hub is pulled upward the rails are pushed downward, the four corner posts are forced to move inward so as to collapse the playpen into a compact rectangular configuration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a blanket or cover with a weighted perimeter or border for covering mammals or humans. The blankets or covers of variable thickness and/or weight and made of various known materials or fabrics having a weighted perimeter or border provide an “anchoring” ability to keep the blanket or cover in the position desired and chosen by the user.

Abstract: The bed sheet securing system is a bed sheet having a hem in the bottom edge. The hem has a pair of openings through which a drawstring is inserted such that the two ends thereof protrude through the openings. In use the bed sheet is fitted over a mattress with the bottom edge and drawstring tucked thereunder. The drawstring is then pulled at its ends to draw the sheet taut around the mattress. Finally the drawstring is secured at its ends by for example tying.

Abstract: A bed with adjustable positions comprises head, foot and central units. The head and foot units include respectively an upper and lower structure and a linear actuator for elevating or lowering the upper structure with respect to the lower structure. Two opposite upper structures can be elevated simultaneously or separately. The central unit is provided with a central platen to which a pair of side platens is hinged. A rotation subassembly is located in head and foot units respectively and is intended to turn the central unit, while an inclination subassembly is used to incline the side platens, so as to prevent the patient from sliding during rotation. A pneumatic bag subassembly is formed from upper and lower sections, which can be independently inflated or deflated. A reaction board, having a width slightly narrower than central platen and a length substantially equal to the upper section, is placed on the latter.

Abstract: An inflatable cushioning device is provided that is comprised of three layers of flexible gas-impermeable material. One of such layers of material is formed with spaced protrusions throughout its length and width. This layer, when sealed to a flat layer of similar shape along its periphery and at various locations between the protrusions, forms an inflatable assembly. The ends or tips of the spaced protrusions are connected to another flat layer of similar size and shape for structural support. When inflated the protrusions act as the main structure for supporting a load upon the inflatable device. The protrusions are spaced close enough to provide ample load support but far enough apart to minimize the overall volume of air needed to inflate the device to full size.

Abstract: A mattress support element comprises a fluid filled bladder and a fluid container substantially surrounded by the bladder. The fluid container is in constant fluid communication with ambient fluid outside the bladder. The fluid container is configured to deform from its original shape when an external force is applied to the bladder and to reform to its original shape upon removal of the external force from the bladder.

Abstract: A consolidated pastry forming apparatus is provided that incorporates a separatable roller tool and a finishing tool. The roller tool includes a handle, a first pair of fork arms at one handle end, and a second pair of fork arms at the other handle end. A first cylindrical dough roller is mounted to the first pair of fork arms and a second convex dough roller is mounted to the second pair of fork arms. The finishing tool is removably attachable to the handle. The finishing tool is unitarily formed and somewhat elongated, and includes at one end thereof a plurality of tines suitable for puncturing a pastry crust, and at the other end thereof a protrusion suitable for crimping a pastry crust.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a survival tool that can be used as a spear, a crutch, a walking stick, or in pairs as a stretcher. The present invention discloses an elongated rod like device being segmented with each segment having a specific purpose or use. Segments are provided to serve as a spear, a flare, a strobe light, and, for other purposes.

Abstract: The invention discloses a novel method for dry cleaning of a fabric material characterized by the use of a unique dry cleaning solvent which is a tris(trimethylsiloxy) silane compound represented by the general formula of RSi(—O—SiMe3)3, in which Me is a methyl group and R is a monovalent hydrocarbon group of 1 to 6 carbon atoms or, preferably, a methyl group, or a mixture thereof with a petroleum-based hydrocarbon solvent in a limited proportion. In addition to the excellent effect of dry cleaning equivalent to that of conventional dry cleaning solvents and little unpleasant smell remaining on the fabric material, the solvent used in the inventive method is little liable for the problems of environmental pollution against public and workers' health and the problem of ozone layer destruction in the aerosphere due to emission of vapors of halogenated hydrocarbon solvents can be solved by the inventive method.

Abstract: Laundry items washed and, if necessary, aftertreated in the tunnel washing machine (10) are, upon leaving the tunnel washing machine (10), freed from a portion of the liquid clinging to them (bound liquor) in a hydroextraction press (21). The remaining portion of the bound liquor is removed from the laundry items by subsequent drying, a process which consumes much time and energy.

Abstract: Passenger loading bridge bumper pads for cushioning and sealing a loading bridge to an aircraft structure, the bridge pads providing a resilient environmental seal and surrounding the bridge. The bottom bumper pad comprising a frangible metallic bumper for absorbing excessive docking forces.

Abstract: A swimming pool cleaning device for automatically cleaning a submerged surface includes a forwardly inclined housing forming a flow passage including a flow control valve. A flexible planar disc extends around an inlet to the flow passage for engaging the surface to be cleaned. The flexible planar member includes slits extending from the peripheral edge inward toward the central opening to form a pedal-like segmented flange for splaying of each segment in response to travel of the cleaner over an irregularly contoured surface and facilitate an effective frictional contact with the surface. A steering mechanism driven by fluid flow through the housing causes the housing to rotate about the planar disc.

Abstract: A cleaner (10) for cleaning dross off of the surface of ingot-filled-molds (F) moving along a conveyor (C) is disclosed. The cleaner (10) includes a boom (14) pivotally mounted to a base (12), an arm (16) housed at least partially within the boom (14) and pivotally mounted thereto, a cutting blade (18) slidably mounted on the arm (16) and a rotatable brush (20) pivotally mounted to a brush arm (132). The cutting blade (18) is driven by a piston and cylinder assembly (112) pivotally coupled between the blade (18) and the arm (16). The arm (16) is pivoted by a piston and cylinder unit (120) coupled between the arm (16) and the boom (14). The brush (20) is pivoted by a piston and cylinder combination (168) coupled between the brush (20) and the brush arm (132).

Abstract: This invention provides an ultrasonically driven nail cleaner, where the ultrasonic frequency both loosens hand and nail soil, as well as providing motion to at least a pair of brushes for removing the soil from the user's hands and nails. The moving force for the brushes and the ultrasonic loosening action are enabled by linkages providing straight line bilateral motion for both of the brushes. A rechargeable battery and a battery charger are provided for multiple uses for the structure provided, without the necessity of an AC outlet proximate the user.

Abstract: The present invention discloses the present invention discloses a power toothbrush that includes a body portion 105. An elongated level arm 102 extends from one end of the body portion to a toothbrush head 101 disposed at a distal end of the toothbrush. The toothbrush head includes a plurality of brush bristles. The elongated lever arm 102 is mounted on an vibrating pivot 104 driven by rotational DC motor engaging and pushing a set of permanent magnets attached to a two-arm fork rotating along the lever arm 102. In a preferred embodiment, the DC motor drives a three-leg permanent magnets each disposed at a 120-degree phase from each other for driving the two-arm fork for generating a vibration that three-times the frequency of the DC motor's rotational frequency. A power toothbrush capable of vibrating at a frequency of 30,000 to 40,000 toothbrush strokes per minute is disclosed in this invention.

Abstract: A multiple pig subsea pig launcher is disclosed. The pig launcher can be assembled on a production pipeline subsea with the aid of an ROV. In the preferred embodiment, the pigs are connected to each other and spaced apart by a spine. The pig launcher is configured to capture the next pig to be launched in such a manner that the spine behind it is in alignment with a shearing valve; for example, coiled tubing or wireline. Sequential valve operation shears the spine and applies pressure behind the pig to launch it from the launcher past the pig detector and onto a platform for recapture.

Abstract: A method of molding a plastic brace into a sponge mop head and an apparatus for retaining a sponge mop head within a plastic brace. The method and apparatus includes a sponge assembly for use with wringer-type mops which include a sponge mop head firmly held by a plastic brace thereto. The brace is provided with a plurality of stitching members for retaining the sponge mop head within the plastic brace. The brace has an attachment member for operative attachment in a simple manner to the wringer-type sponge mop.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a toothbrush with tapered bristles and method of manufacturing such toothbrushes. The toothbrush is characterized in that the tapered end of each bristle is 0.02 mm or less of diameter. The bristle is tapered starting at a position of 3.5 mm or less from an end, and is made of polyethylene terephthalate or polybutylene terephthalate. The method of this invention consists of the steps of dipping 3.5 mm portions from ends of monofilaments for toothbrushes into erosive chemicals such as sulfuric acid or sodium hydroxide until the dipped portions of the monofilaments are completely eroded, neutralizing the shortened monofilaments prior to rinsing and drying them, and implanting the shortened monofilaments on a toothbrush. Thereafter, the shortened monofilaments are ground using a 240# mesh paper at 2600 to 2700 rpm for 3 to 10 sec, a 320# mesh paper at same speed for 3 to 10 sec, and a 400# mesh paper at same speed for 3 to 10 sec.

Abstract: In a window and lens glass cleaning system for a window/lens glass of a motor vehicle, a washer nozzle, a heating element and a nonreturn valve are in each case arranged on or in a retaining part. The retaining part is fastened on a wiper arm which can pivot over the window/lens glass. The invention largely prevents washer fluid in the washer nozzle from freezing.

Abstract: A mop wringer (10) in combination with a mophead (28), the wringer (10) comprising a base (12) and one or more sides (14) which, at least in use, define a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical channel (16), and one or more openings (21) in the base (12) and/or side(s) (14) by which fluid can drain from the wringer (10), and the mophead (28) comprising a body (30) and absorbent material (34) supported by the body (30), the mophead (28) being adapted, upon insertion into the wringer (10), to occlude the channel (16) so that fluid which is discharged from the absorbent material (34) is prevented or substantially prevented from rising above the absorbent material (34).

Abstract: An insert has an upper and lower portions used in conjunction with a variety of sizes of a wash buckets and a wringer to eliminate the contamination of clean wash solution with dirty solution during the moping process. The insert allows for a separation of liquids while limiting the volume that is lost in the wash bucket with the use of an insert. A wringer attaches to the insert and when used to wring out a mop the insert collects all the dirty solution that is extracted from the mop. The insert allows for the maximum clean wash solution volume and dirty solution volume while also increasing the height of the wringer when used in conjunction with the insert and wash bucket.

Abstract: An engine decarbonizing system comprises a manifold with one central and four lateral bores. Pressurized air and decarbonizing fluid in separate containers are adapted to be co-mingled and fed to and through the manifold. A tube assembly has an output tube and two parallel input tubes operatively coupled. The output tube is coupled to the central bore and the two parallel input tubes are coupled to the containers for dispensing pressurized decarbonizing fluid. Four short tubes are coupled to the lateral bores and second ends have a rigid cylindrical nozzle selectively positionable within a spark plug for the delivery of a spray of pressurized decarbonizing fluid. Four switches are coupled to the manifold adjacent to the interface between a short tube and a short bore for selectively allowing or precluding the flow of decarbonizing fluid.

Abstract: A cleaning assembly for cleaning surfaces includes a tank and motor housing with a fluid pump assembly, a blower assembly and a vacuum assembly located within the tank and motor housing. The tank and motor housing is adapted to contain a fluid. The fluid pump assembly includes a pump motor configured to pump the fluid in the tank and motor housing through a sprayer hose and onto the surfaces. The blower assembly includes a blower motor configured to blow air through a blower hose and onto the surfaces for directing movement of the fluid on the surfaces. The vacuum assembly includes a recovery tank and a vacuum motor configured to vacuum the fluid with the vacuum motor off of the surfaces, through a separate vacuum hose and into the recovery tank for cleaning the surfaces.

Abstract: Carpet cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning wand having a vacuum head and an elongated member forming a passageway for transporting material removed from a carpet by the vacuum head. A cleaning liquid spray nozzle is located at the front of the vacuum head and another cleaning liquid spray nozzle is located at the back of the vacuum head. Two control valves are attached to the elongated member, each controlled by a separate moveable handle, allowing the operator to selectively spray in front or in back of the vacuum head as desired.

Abstract: A pivoting handle latch for attachment to a first member, such as a panel, to provide controlled actuation for facilitating attachment of the first member to a second member, such as a cabinet, the latch including a handle with a gripping portion, a based portion, a pawl member and and a first pin connecting the pawl member to the handle and extending through a slot provided in the base member to regulate the movement of the pawl when the handle is lifted from a closed horizontal position to a upright vertical position.

Abstract: A balancing spring system for facilitating the opening and the closing of a window sash assembly slidably mounted in channels of opposed window jambs comprises a connector strip. The connector strip has a front surface and a rear surface. The connector strip also has slots extending from the front surface to the rear surface. The connector strip has a connecting head section at a bottom thereof, adapted for connection to the window sash assembly. Curled ribbon springs are adapted to be mounted idle and free to rotate in each of the channels of the window jambs. The curled ribbon springs each have a free end comprising an enlarged head portion at a tip thereof, for connecting the curled ribbon springs to the slots of the connector strip, whereby the curled ribbon springs apply an upward force to the window sash assembly.

Abstract: A glass door hinge is provided which is self-centering and clamps a glass door between two opposed clamps. The hinge includes a mount, a pair of clamps, a hinge block, a spindle, and a biasing member for engaging the spindle to return the clamps and the door to a centered position. Each of the clamps is preferably provided with a lipped gasket which isolates the door from the metal hinge components. One of the clamps has a pair of set screws for holding the spindle in position relative to the clamps, and a pair of locking screws for inhibiting movement of the set screws. The set screws and locking screws are concealed from view by being received entirely within the clamp.

Abstract: A gravity hinge is disclosed that is simple to manufacture and avoids limitations found in known gravity hinges. The hinge includes two cylindrical knuckles joined by a spindle and separated by a polymer bushing. The junction of the knuckles and the bushing is at an angle oblique to the vertical axis of the knuckles and spindle. The oblique angle causes the upper knuckle to rotate upward upon the application of a rotational force thereby storing potential energy. Upon the release of the rotational force the upper knuckle falls or (rotates) back into place thereby returning the hinge to its natural, closed position.

Abstract: An adjustable locking mount system permits rotation about at least one of x, y, and z axes. Methods provide for rotating and rocking the mount to obtain the desired position, fixing the mount in the desired position, and mounting an object onto the mount.