Abstract: A ball glove including front and back portions, at least one notch, and at least one elastic strip. The front and back portions have front and back lower edges, respectively. The back portion is coupled to the front portion to form a hand cavity. The front and back portions are separated along the front and back lower edges to define a hand-receiving opening. The notch is formed into the back portion and upwardly extends from the back lower edge. The at least one elastic strip extends across the notch generally parallel with the back lower edge. The strip at least partially fills the notch and is fixedly secured to the back portion. The at least one elastic strip enables the hand-receiving opening to resiliently expand to receive a user's hand and then to generally conform to the user's wrist.

Abstract: An item of apparel for the visible indication of sexual proclivity, availability, and safety, in which the apparel has an exterior surface and a cavity-forming pouch attached to the exterior surface, which is generally rectilinear and preferable square, having a width greater than or equal to 2½ inches in width. The pouch is comprised of a material, preferably elasticized, like spandex, and potentially of a clear material for rendering visible a removably retained condom. The apparel is an undergarment, shirt or trousers.

Abstract: A carotid cooling jacket keeps the wearer cool during outside sporting events, for example. The jacket is reusable, and constructed of a waterproof inner lining and a soft outer cover. The outer cover can be made of various materials and in various colors. Filler caps are provided to fill the jacket inner liner with cooling fluid.

Abstract: A protective sports glove for the game of lacrosse having a cuff portion, a hand portion, a plurality of finger portions, and a thumb portion. The hand portion has a palm portion and a back portion. The back portion has a plurality of protective padded portions disposed thereon. A wrist guard is elastically coupled to the hand portion. A plurality of vent openings are formed in the back portion of the hand portion. A plurality of mesh portions are disposed on the palm portion in areas that are not intended to provide primary contact with a stick.

Abstract: A head gear apparatus (10) is provided that moves air to cool a caregiver's head. The head gear apparatus (10) includes a helmet (12) that has a shell (114) configured to rest upon a head of a user and a fan housing (120) movably coupled to shell (114), a fan (122) is positioned to lie within fan housing (120) and moves with fan housing (120) relative to shell (114), and a garment (14) selectively coupled to helmet (12). Garment (14) includes a face shield (20).

Abstract: A leg support garment of a tights type that has stretchability and is applied in close contact with the human body so as to support the legs is provided with a stretchable part having a relatively great straining force. The stretchable part having a relatively great straining force includes a stretchable portion (A) having a relatively great straining force that substantially covers the ligamentum collateralle on a medial side of the knee joint of the human body, and on a superior side of the knee joint, extends through a length of not less than ¼ of that of the thigh, along at least one selected from the musculus group consisting of the musculus sartorius, the musculus semitendinosus, the musculus semimembranosus, and the musculus gracilis.

Abstract: A goggle having at least one side arm. The arms may be used to support the goggle on a wearer's head, and may be pivotally mounted to the goggle frame inward of an outermost portion of the goggle lens(es) or frame. The arms may reinforce the frame, in some cases, to help better retain a lens in the goggle frame. The arms may nest within a groove, cut out or other feature in the goggle frame, e.g., to enhance the aerodynamic performance or aesthetic appearance of the goggle. The arms may closely follow and/or continue a smooth natural contour of the goggle frame, e.g., to make the arms less obtrusive.

Abstract: A load-carrying assembly (10) [FIG. 2] is disclosed comprising a panel (14) having a grid of holes (54) formed therein and at least one load-carrying pouch (26) attached to the panel by means of stud-like fasteners (40, 41) that pass through the holes (54) and through perforations (56, 72) formed in the pouch (26). The panel (14) is preferably formed from a woven textile mesh in which the total area of the holes is less than 75% of the area of the panel, in which the mesh is less extensible in the vertical (load-carrying) direction than in the lateral or horizontal direction, and in which the studs are preferably a close fit in the holes of the mesh and the perforations of the pouch.

Abstract: A flush toilet comprises a toilet body, a first means for supplying wash water, a second means for discharging wash water, a third means for operating as a valve disposed between the first means and the second means, a fourth means for switching the third means, a fifth means for driving the fourth means, a mechanical timer and a sixth means for being manipulated to supply the fifth means with strain energy. The fifth means releases the strain energy accumulated in it to drive the fourth means, and the mechanical timer consumes a part of the strain energy released from the fifth means to regulate duration of the operation of the fifth means.

Abstract: This invention relates to a hot and cold water mixer tap for bath tubs, showers and the like which incorporates a multi-functional group comprising a thermostatic unit (14) to control mixing and temperature of the water, and of a flow diverter unit (15) to selectively deliver water to one or at least two outlets. The thermostatic unit (14) and the flow diverter unit (15) are pre-assembled in a cartridge configuration and one part of the thermostatic unit forms a means for controlling the flow deviator.

Abstract: A device having an equipment cover configuration and a sleeping apparatus configuration is provided for protecting equipment when the device is in the equipment cover configuration and for protecting a user from the elements when the device is in a sleeping apparatus configuration. The device can contain both an outer layer and an inner layer with padding sandwiched between the outer and inner layer. In addition, the device can, contain an insulation layer to increase the comfort level of the device when used as a sleeping apparatus. The device can also contain a liner that prevents contaminants from the equipment from staining the interior of the device. In an alternative embodiment, the device can have a plurality of suspension structures for suspending the device above the ground when used as a sleeping apparatus.

Abstract: An adjustable instrument shelf or tray and anesthesia screen for use in surgical operating rooms.

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: This invention is an adjustable, ergonomically sound apparatus for the human body to assume many positions such as kneeling, sitting or lying. The main components of the invention are comprised adjustable cushions with adjustable supports for the knees, ankles, feet, toes, buttocks, back legs and head. This invention is portable and allows the user to assume the positions of kneeling, sitting and laying for long periods of time on a mobile basis with out the pain, discomfort and lasting damage associated with going long periods of time in these positions without proper supports.

Abstract: A Device for Correcting a Sagging Bed is disclosed. The device may be configured to be placed under the center region of a sagging or new mattress, after which the device is inflated to correct the sagging portion, or to provide additional support. The device may further be divided up into two or more chambers in order to prove additional control and adjustment. The device further may include between two and four lobes extending outwardly at ninety degrees from one another.

Abstract: An inflatable bed includes an inflatable mattress that is attached to the top surface of an inflatable air box spring. An inflatable, stabilizing tube is attached to the bottom of the air box spring to provide additional stability and height by increasing the footprint of the inflatable bed. The interiors of the inflatable mattress and air box spring contain a plurality of I-beam structures arranged longitudinally to provide further support and stability. Alternatively, the inflatable mattress is separate and detachable and can be fastened to the top surface of the air box spring. An additional stabilizing tube is attached to the periphery of the top surface of the air box spring to cradle and support the detachable inflatable mattress.

Abstract: Disclosed are an elastic body having a good elasticity and an impact absorbing efficiency, a method of manufacturing the same and a mattress employing the same. The elastic body is a foamed polyurethane body including polystyrene and has a plurality of foams in which air is contained. The elastic body is prepared by a method comprising the steps of preparing polyether polyol by mixing poly alcohol and a polyether compound in a mixing ratio of 3-5 to 5-7 by weight, obtaining a polyol mixture by adding 2-20 parts by weight of polystyrene and a trace amount of a catalyst and water to 30-50 parts by weight of the obtained polyether polyol, adding and stirring 20-60 parts by weight of an isocyanate compound to 40-80 parts by weight of the polyol mixture at 20-80° C., and pouring the resulting product into a mold to foam cast. A mattress manufactured by using such elastic bodies has a good elasticity and is capable of absorbing pressure, thereby providing comfort for users.

Abstract: This invention is directed to fabric finishes or treatment preparations for nylon, polyester, and other textile and fibrous substrate materials that will render them hydrophilic. The finishes of the invention are comprised primarily of polymers that contain carboxyl groups, salts of carboxyl groups, or moieties that can be converted to carboxyl groups by some chemical reaction.

Abstract: A method and system for dynamically balancing a rotating system or rotating device, such that sensor measurements and responses to control actions can be compiled utilizing one or more sensors associated with the rotating system is disclosed. The rotating system or rotating device may be represented utilizing sensor measurements and responses to control actions through an associated control model, such that the control model and the sensor measurements are determinative of future control actions. The rotating system may be perturbed utilizing a control action while improving a balance condition associated with the rotating system. Sensor data may be measured from one or more sensors associated with the rotating system. One or more responses thereof may be determined based on the control action. The sensor data may be manipulated in order to remove measurements and responses thereof that do not well represent the rotating system.

Abstract: The object of the invention is a preparation for dyeing fibers, especially hair, which is prepared before use by mixing an acidic component (A1), containing at least an enamine of formula (I) or its acid addition salt of Formula (Ia) 1

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of adsorbing dye by cross-linked chitosan beads comprising the steps of providing chitosan and dissolving the chitosan to form a chitosan solution, mixing the chitosan solution with a tripolyphosphate (TPP) solution to form ionic cross-linked chitosan beads, cross-linking the ionic cross-linked beads to form the cross-linked chitosan beads by adding NaOH and cross-linking agent and shaking for about a first period at temperature about 25-55 centigrade; and adding the cross-linked chitosan beads in dye solution to adsorb the dye. The cross-linked chitosan beads is used in acid or neutral solution to adsorb reactive type dye, acid type dye or direct type dye.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to polymeric treatment preparations for textiles and other fibrous substrates that impart water and oil repellency to fibers, yarns, textiles, or other fibrous substrates. More particularly, this invention comprises an aqueous solution, emulsion or suspension of (a) a fluorinated polymer that contains reactive groups that can complex with metal atoms that have a formal charge of 2 or greater, and (b) one or more metal atoms that have a formal charge of 2 or greater. The invention is further directed to the process for treating fibrous substrates with textile preparations in one step that provide water/soil repellency that is durable to repeated cleanings and to abrasion. This invention is further directed to the yarns, fibers, fabrics, textiles, webs, finished goods, or nonwovens (encompassed herein under the terms “textiles” and “fibrous substrates”) treated with the textile-reactive water- and soil-resistant preparation of the invention.

Abstract: A portable battery operated water vacuum intended for cleaning debris from the bottom of a hot tub, spa or shallow pool. A device handle houses the standard dry cell batteries, motor and on/off switch. A rigid tube connects the handle to the pump assembly. The rigid tube is sufficiently long to keep the handle assembly out of the liquid while the pump assembly is submerged, during use. The pump assembly comprises: a pump housing, impeller, inlet and outlet port. The impeller is located inside the pump housing and is connected to the motor by a shaft supported coaxially within the rigid tube. An inlet tip is connected to the inlet port and a removable filter bag is attached to the outlet port. When the unit is switched on, the impeller pulls water from the inlet tip and pushes it to the outlet port, trapping any debris in the filter bag.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for food handling, comprising a member for the support of a food item; and a covering for the member, wherein said covering is formed with an anti-microbial agent to retard the growth of microbes. In a particular embodiment, the covering comprises a foam padding.

Abstract: The case comprises a housing to receive at least one safety razor and a closing cover movable between a closed and an open position of said housing, and is characterized in that it combines:

Abstract: An electric toothbrush with a removable brush section having a transponder communicating with a handle portion of the toothbrush via a non-contacting inductive coupling.

Abstract: Disclosed is a butterfly mop having an elongate shaft with a channel body disposed at one end of the shaft, the channel body having first and second leg portions defining a channel therebetween, the mop further having a mop element including a foldable, compressible, liquid-absorbent member. The mop element and channel body are hingedly movable along a hinge line relative to one another, whereby the mop element may be drawn into the channel causing the mop element to fold along a transverse axis and to become compressed between the channel body leg portions. A manual actuation mechanism includes a handle and a tension rod connecting the handle to one of the mop element and channel body for effecting relative hinged movement thereof. The mop element preferably includes plural pairs of apertures for allowing mounting of the mop element to variously sized mop element supports.

Abstract: A cleaning attachment for converting a cleaning implement to a mop includes a cover having end sections which are interconnected by a central section. The end sections are secured together to form an enclosure around the cleaning head of an implement. The central section is of V-shape to provide a pair of support surfaces. A wipe or cleaning cloth is attached to the central section thereby resulting in two separate cleaning areas.

Abstract: A wiper device for a window, in particular in a motor vehicle, including a wiper blade, a mechanical system that drives the wiper blade, and a control device that compensates for the clearances of the mechanical system as a function of load changes and/or as a function of service life and a method for operating such a wiper device.

Abstract: The invention is based on a wiper arm (10) that is comprised of a mounting part (12) and an articulating part (14), which is pivotably connected to a first region (16) of the mounting part (12) by means of a hinge joint (22) and has a wiper rod (24), to which a wiper blade is pivotably connected, wherein the mounting part (12) is securely affixed with a second region (18) to a drive shaft (20) and braced in relation to the articulating part (14) by means of a tension spring (28). The invention proposes that the mounting part (12) have a device (34, 36, 42), which permits the first region (16) of the mounting part (12) oriented toward the articulating part (14) to collapse toward a vehicle windshield in a defined manner.

Abstract: Insertion of a dust wand into a portable vacuum filtration canister removes foreign matter therefrom when and where necessary without polluting the air. A powerpack provides cordless (rechargeable or non-rechargeable) and corded operation. A readily serviceable grid filter, and a HEPA or other filter provides cleaned air free of dirt, dust and allergens.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and an apparatus for the ultrasound-aided cleaning of stationary utility surfaces, comprising one or more ultrasonic generators (1), ultrasonic transducer devices (2) and one or more sonotrodes (3) which are substantially of an areal configuration, wherein the unit of the sonotrode (3), the ultrasonic transducer device (2) and the generator (1) can be guided in mobile fashion on a fluid cushion delimited by a sealing lip system (8, 9), over the utility surface to be cleaned.

Abstract: A canister type vacuum cleaning appliance with a collapsible handle, attached to the housing, that is adjustable to the height of the user and positioned such that the user can use the handle to move and guide the housing unit with one hand while moving about a room, or between rooms, while manipulating the hose assembly with the other hand.

Abstract: A canister type vacuum cleaning appliance with a collapsible handle, attached to the housing, that is adjustable to the height of the user and positioned such that the user can use the handle to move and guide the housing unit with one hand while moving about a room, or between rooms, while manipulating the hose assembly with the other hand.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner (100) comprises a main body (3), separating apparatus, a flexible hose (20) having one end for coupling to an input of the separating apparatus and the other end terminating in a connecting part (40), a rigid pipe (9, 10) being selectively connectable to the main body (3) (see FIG. 2A) so as to provide a handle for the cleaner when connected to the main body (3), or a wand when released from the main body (3). The pipe (9) has an opening at each of first and second ends (16, 17) and a gripping portion (11) at the first end (17) for allowing a user to grasp the pipe (9). The hose connecting part (40) is connectable to the opening at either end (16, 17) of the pipe (9). Thus, the pipe (9) can be more conveniently used during a cylinder mode of cleaning.

Abstract: The invention relates to an improved cleaning device for moving stairways or sidewalks that is characterized in that it comprises in addition to its cleaning head (7) an off-set support leg (13). The cleaning device is further provided with a gripper, guide, steering and/or control device (3) that comes to rest above the support (16) of the support leg (13), and/or the cleaning head can be swiveled by 180° with respect to its operative position and/or the cleaning device is further provided with a strip-shaped broom device (41) that has the function of a sealing strip for a suction strip (23).

Abstract: A door checker for an automobile includes a case secured to a door, and a check plate mounted to extend through the case and supported on a body. A pair of detent members and resilient means for urging the detent members against opposite sides of the check plate are accommodated in the case. The check plate is provided with notches in which the detent members are brought into engagement to retain the door at a predetermined medium opening degree, and with a full-opening stopper means adapted to receive an outer side of the case to define an opening limit for the door. In the door checker, a section of each of the opposite sides of said check plate, where each of the detent members is moved from the medium opening degree to the opening limit for the door, is formed as a continuous surface having no unevenness.

Abstract: The present invention provides a hinge assembly (1) in which a projection and a cam face for converting a biasing force of bias means (9) into a turn biasing force for turning a turnable member (3) disposed at one end portion of a hinge main body (2) in one direction are disposed between the turnable member (3) and a movable member (4) disposed at the hinge main body (2) in such a manner as to be non-turnable but movable in the axial direction, wherein a second movable member (6) and a second turnable member (5) are disposed at the other end portion of the hinge main body (2), and a second projection and a second cam face for converting a biasing force of the bias means (9) in the same direction as the above-mentioned turn biasing force are disposed between the second movable member (6) and the second turnable member (5).

Abstract: A sprung hinge for a two-way door has a body. The body has two side ends curled to form two barrels. Two springs are respectively mounted inside the barrels. Two adjusting seats are respectively mounted on top of the barrels. Two bases are respectively mounted under the barrels. The adjusting seats and the bases are made of durable plastic. Each spring has a top end and a lower end respectively connected to the corresponding adjusting seat and base. Each barrel is further pivotally connected to a pivoting member. Two axles respectively extend through the barrels and the corresponding adjusting seats and bases. Each axle has two ends respectively and securely mounted with a top cap and a bottom cap, wherein fillers made of the durable plastic are disposed in the top caps and the bottom caps.

Abstract: A handle of an adhesive-tape cutter includes a recessed groove formed at a preset position of the handle, having insert holes preset in number formed around its circumference. A cover member is provided at a bottom side with a plurality of insert studs for correspondingly inserting in the insert holes of the handle. The cover member has a cover plate provided with at least one engraved groove on its faceplate for words, designs or a trademark to be embedded therein. A resilient covering covers up a preset portion of the handle and filled up the engraved groove. Words, designs or a trademark is embedded and protected in the engraved groove so they will not be worn out, fade in color or fall off.

Abstract: A sprung surface handle for flat surfaces, such as the end of a trunk, or box, comprising a base plate 1 having edges 2, 3, 4; a handle 6 having a cross arm 7, side arms 8, 9, and turned-in arms 11, 12; a handle-mounting plate 13 on the base plate 1, having bearings 19, 20 at least partially surrounding the turned-in arms 11, 12; a spring 33 to bias handle 6 adjacent base plate 1; stops 21, 22 to engage the side arms 8, 9 to stop rotation of the handle, after it has rotated away from the base plate 1; and raised handle protecting parts 29, 30, 31, 32, on the base plate 1, between the edges 2, 3, 4 thereof and the arms 7, 8, 9, to protect the handle from other objects.

Abstract: An eyeglass retainer is configured to retain an eyeglass in a desired position on the body of a user, such as the head or neck of the user. The retainer includes (i) a cord having a first end and a second end; (ii) a first connector coupled to the first end of the cord; and (iii) a second connector coupled to the second end of the cord. Each of the first and second connectors have: (i) a tubular wall defining a hollow chamber configured to receive an eyeglass earpiece therein; and (ii) an expandable opening extending through the tubular wall. The expandable opening may comprise: (i) a hole extending through the tubular wall; and (ii) a slit extending through the tubular wall. An eyeglass earpiece can be selectively mounted in each connector or a temple of the eyeglass can be mounted in each connector. Thus, the eyeglass retainer etains the eyeglass in one of a plurality of possible orientations on the body of the user.

Abstract: A two piece cable tie is provided having an improved metal locking device anchoring system. The cable tie includes a strap including a first end and a free end and a locking head secured to the first end of the strap that defines a strap accepting channel in the head having a strap entry end and a strap exit end. The locking head further includes a metal locking device receiving cavity adjacent to and open toward the strap exit end of the locking head and a mounting slot having an inner support wall, an outer support wall and a support slot communicating the mounting slot with the receiving cavity. A metal locking device is mounted through the metal locking device receiving cavity into the mounting slot. The metal locking device has a free end positioned within the strap accepting channel and a fixed end having at least one bent tang protruding outwardly from a surface of the metal locking device. The fixed end having the at least one bent tang is insertable through the support slot.

Abstract: A boot band includes a locking hole formed in an outer overlapping portion of a band body, a locking nail formed on an inner overlapping portion, and an ear portion which can be plastically deformed into a shape that decreases the circumferential length of the band body. When being inserted in the locking hole, the locking nail can move between an engaging position to engage with a ridge of the locking hole and a disengaging position to disengage from the ridge. A narrow portion is formed at an intermediate portion in the longitudinal direction of the locking hole to restrain the locking nail from returning from the engaging position to the disengaging position side.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved paper clip, which is applied on different thicknesses of documents, even only one single paper. The improved paper clip includes three elements, which are a first clipping piece, a second clipping piece and a support beam. The first clipping piece is with a sunken slot; the second clipping piece consists of a bending curve part and a horizontal part, a bottom curve surface of the bending curve part protrudes into the sunken slot and is roughened to become a rough surface for increasing friction to tightly clamp documents or one paper; the support beam, first clamping piece and second clamping piece form a capacity to store thicker documents.

Abstract: The invention provides a fastening component for use in anchoring agricultural sheet, textile or film to a support, and a system and method of anchoring agricultural sheeting, textile or film. The fastening component including one or more prongs arranged to engage the sheeting, textile or film to connect the component to the sheeting, textile or film, and attachment means enabling a length of resiliently extensible and/or inextensible material to be attached to the component and to the support. The fastening component may be used in combination with a length of resiliently extensible material and/or inextensible material, arranged to be releasably fastened at the other end to the support.

Abstract: A structure of a magnetic belt buckle is disclosed. The magnetic belt buckle comprises a top cover, magnets, a pulling ring, an iron block and a bottom housing and at least one moving-type magnet, characterized in that the top cover, the bottom housing and one end of the belt are mounted with magnets of same poles to facilitate and rapid adjustment of belt by means of repelling force between the magnets so as to attain the optimum fastening, and by means of the moving-type magnets to mutually repel with each other, and to attract with the iron block, the tightening of belt is maintained.

Abstract: The present invention provides a zipper's pull hook structure having a replaceable pull sheet. The pull hook comprises a first ring portion, a second ring portion, a hook portion, and a resilient sheet portion, which are integrally formed. The first ring portion and the second ring portion are folded and stacked together. The hook portion is bent into a hook shape, and has an opening. The resilient sheet portion is situated at the opening of the hook portion. One end of the resilient sheet portion forms a free end. The opening is closed flexibly through the help of the resilient sheet portion. The hook portion can be hooked at a joint ring of a pull sheet. A zipper's pull hook having a replaceable pull sheet is thus formed.

Abstract: A woven fastener product includes an array of hook elements and an array of loop elements that extend from the surface of different respective regions of a common fabric base. The arrays are formed by warp yarns, the arrays being separated in the warp direction of the fabric base. To form a self-engaged fastening, the fastener product is conformed so that the hook elements overlie the loop elements. Monofilament loops are shown sized and located to provide pin-receiving mounting sleeves as part of the woven structure.

Abstract: A clamp for clamping sheets and like material has opposed clongate clamping jaws (2, 4) mounted for pivotal movement between a clamping condition and a relatively open, released condition, and a latch device for effecting movement of the jaws (2, 4). The latch device comprises a member (12) of channel section within which an upper part of the jaws (2, 4) is mounted whereby opposite sides of the member (12) cooperate with the two jaws (2, 4), and latch levers (26) pivotal between a stable latched position and a released position. The latch levers (26) are linked to the jaws (2, 4) by a screw mechanism (22) and co-operate with the member (12) such that movement of the latch levers (26) to their released positions effects relative movement between the jaws (2, 4) and member (12) to enable opening of the jaws (2, 4). Adjustment of the clamping and open condition of the jaws (2, 4) is effected by rotation of the latch levers (26) about the axis of the screw mechanism (22).