Abstract: A sleep shield adapted to exclude ambient light from the eyes of an adult wearer. The masking region which covers the eyes of the wearer and the portion of the forehead directly thereabove is provided at its midpoint on the lower edge thereof with an arcuate indentation to accommodate the nose bridge of the wearer. The sleep shield formed of inner layer of soft fabric and an outer layer of see-through flexible plastic both cooperate in a narrow pocket-like receptacle to facilitate the insertion of various accessories.

Abstract: A protective garment comprises a porous, breathable body portion and sleeves made of a nonwoven synthetic fabric. The sleeves and a front part of the body portion are covered at their outer surfaces by outer layers of plastic film. In one embodiment, a protective skirt of plastic film extends down below a lower edge of the body portion for covering parts of the wearer that extend below the body portion. The protective skirt can include perforations facilitating adjustment of a vertical extent of the skirt.

Abstract: The present invention relates to various types of garments to be worn by outdoors people such as hunters and fishermen. The garments include stretch fabric portions in strategic locations to provide mobility as well as comfort and thereby allow the wearer to engage in a wide range of activities. The garments having such stretch fabric portions include pants-type garments, bib overall type garments, and coat-type garments and coverall-type garments.

Abstract: Protective headwear for use under a hair dryer includes a strap which extends across the forehead of the wearer. A visor is attached to the bottom of the strap and covers and protects the eyes and nose of the wearer. A pair of earpieces are connected to opposite sides of the forehead strap by means of elastic connectors. Each earpiece has a first section and a bendable end section which extends around an ear of the wearer. Flaps are attached to and hang down from the first section to cover the ears. The forehead strap may be elastic and extendable, and the visor may be fan shaped.

Abstract: In a waist expanding and contracting structure for pants or the like of a type having waist pockets, a waist part 1 consists of a front waist part 2, a back waist part 3, and a side waist part 4. The structure includes a first elastic member 14 which is positioned between a front waist surface cloth 6 and a front waist reverse cloth 8 with its one end sewn to the side waist part and with its other end sewn to both the front waist surface cloth and the front waist reverse cloth by sewing together, and a second elastic member 15 which is positioned at the rear of the side waist part 4 with its one end sewn to the back waist part 3 and with its other end sewn to the front waist reverse cloth 8. A side cloth 13 is folded back to be sewn to a hemmed edge P1 of the waist pocket, and a pocket bag 17 to be opened and closed by a fastener 16 is provided between the front body part 5 and a reverse cloth 7 of the front body part.

Abstract: The protective attachments of the present invention provide protection that removably attaches to the bottom of the foot, hands, elbow, knees, shins, and animal pads, in a snug tight fit, and that conforms to the contour of the body part covered. The side of the protective attachment worn against the body is covered with a layer of adhesive. In addition, the protective attachment of the present invention can be easily trimmed to provide a perfect fit to the user.

Abstract: A shield fixing structure in which convenience in shield fixing or removing operation is further improved while superior effect in the fixing structure is being assured. This fixing structure is set such that when the stopper is oppositely faced against the passing notch at its full-opened upper limit position, the holding part holds the state to enable a turning of the shield over the full-opened upper limit position of the shield.

Abstract: A dual single-eye swimming goggles system for swimming pool purposes comprising: a first single-eye swimming goggle and a second single-eye swimming goggle as well as a method for being worn single-eye swimming goggles on a wearer's head, each single-eye swimming goggles having a lens frame with a lens fixed therein, and a head strap mean mounted to the lens frame, each single-eye swimming goggle can respectively adjusting to match the periphery of a wearer's eyehole, so as to both eye of a user get more comfortable during use the dual single-eye swimming goggles; beside, to prevent consequently the seepage of water.

Abstract: A system is for flushing material, including a tank for containing flushing fluid, and a tube for transporting flushing fluid from the tank, wherein the tube is located in the tank and includes a first opening located at a low volume level and a second opening located directly adjacent to a bottom surface of the tank.

Abstract: The present invention “safety device for baby's game-bed” includes a safety device installed between the stand and the joint of the game-bed. The safety device consists of a pressure-board and the elastic components installed inside the stands. When the pressure-board is not pressed, the projecting blocking-object of the elastic component forces the stand and the joint to lock together. When user presses the pressure-board, the stand bends against the joint. The safety device of present invention is designed to prevent babies from folding the game-beds carelessly, thereby prevents accidents from happening and upgrades safety for babies.

Abstract: A warming system, mounted to the foot of a bed, warms a person's lower extremities by directing air into the space between the mattress and overlaying blankets. A blower directs air into an elongated distribution chamber having many tiny exit apertures. The chamber is mounted at the foot of the bed, so that air exiting the apertures warms the person's feet. For maximum thermal transfer, the chamber is placed under the sheet and any blankets, but above the mattress cover and fitted sheet. The chamber may be implemented by a length of open cell foam, a hollow manifold with many punctures or other tiny distribution apertures, collapsible pocket, etc. While the person is lying on the bed beneath the blankets, with feet proximate the foot of the bed, the blower directs temperature-regulated air into the chamber and through the exit apertures, thereby warming the person's feet. A temperature regulator ensures a normothermic air temperature (or alternatively, hyperthermic air temperature.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for securing a bed linen proximate a mattress includes a planar member with at least one tapered portion that is adapted to receive a portion of a bed linen therein. In use, the bed linen is urged into the tapered portion and is secured thereto. The planar member is then rotated approximately 180 degrees and is placed under a corner of the mattress, thereby securing the corner of the linen in position under the mattress. Alternate embodiments for the planar member and for the tapered portion are described.

Abstract: A patient table, which is movable in at least one of a vertical direction and a tiltable direction. The patient table comprises: a base; a patient support surface; a support mechanism connected to said base and said support mechanism moving said patient support surface in at least one of a vertical direction and a tiltable direction; and a telescopic cover enclosing said support mechanism, said telescopic cover expanding and constructing with movement of said support mechanism.

Abstract: A hospital bed adapted for use with an open geometry imaging system, such as a C-arm imager, is provided. The hospital bed includes a mobile base, a frame, a bed top, and a patient support. At least one portion of the bed top and patient support are substantially radiotransparent. The radiotransparent portions are capable of axial displacement along the lengthwise axis of the bed, thereby allowing the use of an imager on a patient in the bed without interference from the base. The axial displacement is preferably indexed to at least one predetermined stop position. One or more independent lateral sections can be selectively moved away from the radiotransparent portion, allowing for a reduction in the overall width of the bed. A patient transport system is also provided, in which the bed top and attached patient support can be used as a portable support, such as a stretcher, and may be secured to the base for subsequent transport and/or imaging when appropriate.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame and a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis and a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame. A special head restraint apparatus maintains proper patient alignment during rotation. A weight monitoring system monitors a patient's weight over time. A touch screen user interface provides programmable therapy settings and displays statistics about past treatment. Circuitry is provided to minimize the risk that the failure of any single device or software program could endanger a patient. A “CPR” button is provided to arrest any program of therapy and return the patient support platform to a supine position.

Abstract: A prone positioning therapeutic bed comprises a base frame, a patient support platform rotatably mounted on the base frame for rotational movement about a longitudinal rotational axis, a drive system for rotating the patient support platform on the base frame, and an upright end ring at the head of the bed with a central opening for routing patient care lines and a removable upper section for improved access to a patient's head. The patient support platform preferably has pivotally mounted side rails that fold underneath the patient support platform and straps with strap connectors that indicate whether the straps are sufficiently tensioned. A direct, wired electrical connection between the patient support platform and the base frame allows full rotation of the patient support platform in either direction. A manually operable lever disengages the patient support platform from the drive system to allow manual rotation of the patient support platform.

Abstract: An ergonomic pillow comprises a body including an inclined surface on either side, an arcuate central recess, and a slope near either side extended from the inclined surface to the recess so that either slope has the highest elevation on a top surface of the case; a front lengthwise projection member having a front slant extended from a bottom of the body adjacent to the recess; first and second cavities on the bottom of the body adjacent to either side and disposed corresponding to either slope; and an elongate third cavity at an underside of the projection member having the same orientation as the projection member. The pillow appropriately support face, ear, spine and shoulder for relaxing head and spine of a user in face-up or side sleeping.

Abstract: An improved adjustable pillow includes a first pillow body which has a first opening and a second pillow body disposed at a selected location in the first opening. The first and second pillow bodies have a plurality of stuffing materials held therein. User may adjust the pillow to a height and curvature desired by shuffling the stuffing materials between the first and second pillow body and then wrap and fold the second pillow body to form a stable state for use. The second pillow body may be used to support user's neck to conform ergonomics and to enable the user to get most comfortable sleep.

Abstract: An air mattress includes a first inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The first compartment having a top, a bottom, and sides and is composed of at least two layers of vinyl, one layer of vinyl forming the top of the compartment and the second forming the bottom. A second inflatable compartment is disposed on the top of the first inflatable compartment and is secured to the first compartment along a portion of the first inflatable compartment. The second compartment extends generally the length and width of the top of the first compartment and is of a size, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The second compartment is composed of at least two layers of vinyl distinct from the two layers of vinyl forming the first compartment.

Abstract: An air mattress includes a first inflatable compartment having a length and width, when inflated, sufficient to support a human body. The first compartment is composed of at least two layers of vinyl, one layer of vinyl forming the top of the compartment and the second forming the bottom. A second inflatable compartment extends generally the length and width of the first compartment and is attached to the first compartment through a perimeter seal that is recessed from the periphery of the air mattress. The second compartment is tufted and so contain a layer of resilient material.

Abstract: A self-inflating mattress includes a resilient, air pressure adjustable, self-inflating foam core and a flexible, airtight covering that encloses the core. One or more drain valves extend through the covering and are communicably connected an interior of the mattress. The valves are opened for exhausting air from and at least partially collapsing the core and for allowing a core that is at least partially collapsed to draw in air and expand. The valves are closed for maintaining a selected air pressure within the core. A vacuum unit may be sealably interengaged with a valve to exhaust air from the mattress and deflate the foam core.

Abstract: An air inflatable support element includes: (a) two identical circular outer sections, one being an upper outer section and the other being a lower outer section; and (b) two or more circular middle sections, each middle section being affixed at its periphery to the adjacent middle section, each middle section being identical to the other middle sections, each middle section being affixed to an outer section; wherein the outer sections are parallel, but not affixed, to one another; the outer and middle sections each include an identically sized central aperture, the central aperture extending through the center of the support element; and the support element includes a flexible, nonmetallic material. Also included is an air support surface containing the support elements.

Abstract: A foldable multi-tool having a pair of jaws pivotally mounted to each other with each jaw having a head and a shank. A handle is pivotally mounted at one end to each of the shanks and foldable relative to the jaws along a first pivot pin. The handle has a hollow area comprising side walls, a bottom wall and an open top. The interior of the hollow area has a space to receive the jaws when the handles are folded relative to the jaws. The hollow area has a seat on which the jaws are seated when the jaws are in their folded position. The jaws have outer surfaces and the seats have an area which is contoured in a manner similar to the contour of the outer surfaces of the jaws.

Abstract: A tool head device is adapted to be mounted on a head of a hammer, and includes an operating portion in the form of a hatchet or trowel blade, and a coupling portion formed integrally with and extending from the operating portion. The coupling portion has a concavity for inserting a bell portion of the head of the hammer, and an internally threaded wall for engaging threadedly a screw fastener so as to position releasably the coupling portion on the head of the hammer. The assembly of the tool head device and the hammer permits multiple operating functions.

Abstract: A striking tool is provided for interlocking with a bar-like tool having a fork end and/or a pike end. The striking tool uses two retaining features for retaining a bar-like tool. The pike can be replaced by or supplemented with an adz, or any other type of extrusion. The bar-like tool is preferably a halligan. The striking tool is preferably an axe having a handle and a striking head anchored to the handle. Both of the bar-like-tool retaining features are located on the handle. The two tools are detachably interlocked for storage or carrying purposes. The present invention is especially useful in the firefighting field.

Abstract: A process for treating a textile fabric to impart or enhance at least one property of the fabric comprising:

Abstract: A process for treating a textile fabric to impart or enhance at least one property of the fabric comprising:

Abstract: A control device for a laundry appliance includes a member which need only be manually shifted through a limited range of travel, from a neutral position to which the control member is biased, in either of first and second opposing directions, to establish a desired cycle and to adjust an operational time for the cycle. The control member is provided with numerous movable contacts which are interposed between fixed contacts. Shifting of the control member a limited amount in either direction will function to engage a single pair of the contacts, while shifting the control member a further amount in the same direction causes another pair of the contacts to become engaged. In this manner, the contacts are paired to slowly increase or decrease the operational time and to also select either the next or previous operational cycle. User feedback of the selected setting is preferably provided through the use of a illuminated indicator that shifts around a track adjacent operational indicia.

Abstract: Couplers for hair coloring compositions for oxidative dyeing of hair are compounds of the formula (1): 1

Abstract: A process for printing a textile material which has been dyed with a dischargeable dye is provided. The process includes the steps of applying to a first selected portion of the textile material a discharge composition comprising a discharge agent in an amount sufficient to at least partially discharge the dye from the first selected portion of the textile material where the discharge composition is applied, applying to a second selected portion of the textile material a coloring composition comprising a pigment in an amount sufficient to color the dye in the second selected potion of the textile material where the coloring composition is applied, and heating the textile material to a drying temperature for a time sufficient to discharge the dye from the material and fix the pigment. A textile material having a multi-toned colored design or pattern is also provided by the process of the present invention.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method which comprises irradiating at least one face of an article with UV radiation, causing the article to be photodegraded over a thickness of at least 1 &mgr;.m. and contacting the irradiated face of the article with a coloring agent, so as to diffuse the coloring agent in the entire thickness of the photodegraded surface layer of the article. The invention is useful for optical and ophthalmologic articles.

Abstract: Reactive dyes of formula 1

Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing individually contoured shoe inserts. The apparatus scans a foot of a user and generates data signal representative of the shape of the scanned foot. The data signal is analyzed and modified by a processor based upon characteristics of the user's foot, qualities desired by the user and the manner in which the user walks. The modified data signals are provide to control an insert forming device which molds a blank template to produce an insert of a desired shape. The insert is provided to the user for the placement in a shoe. modified data may be stored in a memory device or on a recording medium for use at a future date to produce other inserts.

Abstract: An extensible platform on an extensible passenger loading bridge is disclosed in the present invention. When a loading bridge is connected to a small aircraft to allow passengers to board or deplane, a large size difference exists between the aperture of a loading bridge and the entry/exit hatch of a small aircraft; the loading bridge aperture being larger than the aircraft hatch. Accordingly, the size difference creates a potentially dangerous gap. The extensible platform on an extensible passenger loading bridge is for alleviating the gap and as such for providing a safe pathway to passengers when they board or deplane.

Abstract: An expansion joint in which by means of movability of expansion shim assemblies in a sustaining pedestal and a stepped bench unit formed of a pair of benches at different elevation disposed beneath the sustaining pedestal so as to withstand vibration of roadway or bridge and instantly rescue the roadway or bridge from collapsing.

Abstract: A head for an electric toothbrush includes a support member having a plurality of holes extending completely therethrough. A plurality of tufts of bristles each extends through one of the holes. A first brushing end of each tuft projects from a first side of the support member. Each tuft is prevented from being withdrawn from its hole when a tensile force is applied to the first end of each tuft along a long axis of the tuft. A resilient cushion is positioned adjacent a second side of the support member such that a second end of each tuft can contact the cushion. When a compressive force is applied to the first end of each tuft along the long axis of each tuft, each tuft can move in its hole in a first direction into the cushion. When the compressive force is removed the cushion causes each tuft to move in its hole in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to replaceable dental brush units useful in an electric toothbrush. In particular, the invention provides for a replaceable dental brush unit useful in an electric toothbrush that uses gear links for connecting and driving motions of bristle head by motors.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush comprises a handle and a head, characterized in that the head has a rubbery cleaning element.

Abstract: A hygienic utensil having improved cleansing members for effectively cleaning and massaging the scalp is provided. The utensil for cleansing and massaging skin includes, a body and a plurality of branched bristle bundles. The plurality of branched bristle bundles extend outward from the body. The branched bristle bundles are grouped together to form cleansing members and attached to pedestals extending from the body. The cleansing members have a centermost portion in which the bristle lengths are shorter relative to the outermost bristle lengths.

Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a foot scrubber and massager formed of modular parts. The foot scrubber has a base module that defines a foot print shaped recess. Inside the recess are a number of holes that aid in securing the bristle module and retaining module in the recess. The bristle module corresponds in size and shape to the recess in the base module has bristles extending outward from the bristle module. A securing module secures the bristle module in the base module.

Abstract: Toothbrush comprising a handle (1) and a head (2), the handle (1) made out of a plastics material and having a general handle surface (3) and a grip portion (4), characterized in that the grip portion (4) comprises a projection (5) made out of said plastics material and which projects from the handle surface (3), said projection (5) having a gripping surface (6) which is raised from the handle surface (3) and has an elastomeric edge (7).

Abstract: A golf ball cleaning device includes opposing panels joined by a hinge. The panels have a layer of a waterproof material defining an edge, a layer of a water absorbent material defining a perimeter and being affixed to the waterproof material of at least one of the panels, and a margin of waterproof material extending between the perimeter of the layer of water absorbent material and the edge of the layer of the waterproof material to which the water absorbent material is affixed. The golf ball cleaning device has a closed position in which the opposing panels contact one another, with the water absorbent material positioned between the layers of waterproof material. The margin of waterproof material prevents moisture in the water absorbent material from wicking out of the golf ball cleaning device.

Abstract: A floor coating applicator having a pad affixed to a frame and having cord strands extending outwardly from part of the periphery of the pad and adapted to be manipulated over a floor surface by a handle affixed to the frame.

Abstract: A dust mop comprises a handle connected to a flexible base member of unibody configuration. The base member has a flexibly resilient top wall and flexibly resilient side and end walls. Cleaning strands of cloth or like material are attached to and extend from the base member. The top wall of the base member comprises an integrally molded spring which maintains the base member in a flat configuration. The cloth strands can be used for cleaning dust or other accumulated dirt or a disposable cleaning sheet can be wrapped around the cleaning strands and retained in position over the strands and the base member by resilient biased members integrally molded from the top wall.

Abstract: A paint roller cage body is provided to support the length of a paint roller cover in substantially entirely untensioned engagement except at a single predetermined point located on the cage framework at a predetermined axially outwardly spaced distance from the inner end cap member of the cage body, at which point radial projections on the cage framework frictionally and tensionably engage the inner surface of a roller cover core to secure it releasably on the roller cage during painting operations and permit axial sliding of a roller cover under tensioned engagement for the distance required for the cover to clear tensioned engagement under the impact force of a single downward rap of a paint roller against the rim of a paint bucket, the cover then free to simply slide by gravity off of the remaining length of the roller cage and into the bucket whereby to avoid paint splatter and other inconveniences during removal of a roller cover after painting operations.

Abstract: A self-running vacuum cleaner comprises a homing mode of following a back of a user with receiving a signal from a light emitting means or a transmitting means of a position indicator means held by the user, an instruction operation mode, in which the user instructs a cleaning area to the self-running vacuum cleaner, and an execution mode for cleaning up the cleaning area instructed. When the self-running vacuum cleaner operates under the homing mode or the instruction mode, a signal from the light-emitting means or the transmitting means is received by a receiver means attached on a periphery portion of a measuring means, which is provided in an upper portion of the vacuum cleaner. Comparing the signals from the two (2) receiver means in strength thereof determines the distance and the direction from the position indicated by the light-emitting means or the transmitting means up to the vacuum cleaner.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner has a cord retainer for holding looped cord in a horizontal position against the housing of the vacuum cleaner. The cord retainer includes two cord locks that are pivotally mounted to the vacuum cleaner housing. The cord locks are limited in their pivotal movement from a horizontal or near horizontal position to a vertical or near vertical position. The cord locks are mounted onto shafts which, in turn, are either integrally molded with the vacuum cleaner housing or connected to the vacuum cleaner housing in a suitable fashion.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is provided which includes a housing and a latch assembly disposed on the housing. The latch assembly includes a latch that is movable relative to the housing between a first state and a second state. The vacuum cleaner also includes a blower that is disposable on the housing and has a first state wherein the blower is detached from the housing and a second state wherein the blower is disposed on the housing. The blower includes a latching surface disposed adjacent the latch with the blower in the second state. The blower moves the latch between the first state and the second state as the blower is moved between the first state and the second state, and the latch engages the latching surface with the blower in the second state and the latch in the first state to secure the blower to the housing.

Abstract: A mobile litter pickup vehicle has a pair of forward corner brushes independently mounted on articulated arms so that the brushes may be moved in the event an obstacle is encountered to avoid damage to the brushes or to the object. An air recirculating system is employed for prolonging the life of the final outlet filter, and an impermeable trash bag may be used for disposing of the contents of a primary scrim collection bag.

Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner (10) includes an upper housing (12) and a nozzle base (14). An underside (20) of the nozzle base includes a main suction opening (26) formed therein which is in fluid communication with the upper housing via a hose assembly (28). The hose assembly is coupled to the nozzle suction opening via a coupling member (40). The coupling member is substantially cylindrical in shape and is dimensioned to be inserted into a receiving portion (42) of the nozzle base. The coupling member includes a first tapered end (60) dimensioned to be frictionally fit within a suction inlet (44) of the receiving portion. A second end (62) of the coupling member is configured to be supported on a rear wall (50) of the receiving portion. A quarter turn thread segment (72) is disposed on the coupling member's peripheral surface.