Abstract: A reclining mechanism for use on a chair is disclosed that allows the chair to be placed in close proximity to a wall, and allows the chair back to recline, in part, by moving the seat forwardly, but not upwardly. A chaise option is also disclosed that allows the seating portion of the chaise to move forwardly as the back reclines. In an alternative arrangement, an extendable ottoman is disclosed that is independently operable from the back recline.

Abstract: In various embodiments, self-adjusting reclinable seating is disclosed. When the user applies a force to the seating by shifting his or her center of gravity, the backrest and seat portions of the seating move in response to the force to recline the seating. The user can return the seating to an upright position by again shifting his or her center of gravity. Such a configuration eliminates the need for manual recline controls. The seating is further configured to continuously vary the angle of the seat and backrest portions relative to the ground as the user moves. In particular, vertical distance between the front of the seat and the ground increases as the backrest reclines. Continuously varying the angle of both the seat and the backrest portions of the seating relative to the ground may improve a user's seating comfort, for example, by decreasing or eliminating the user's need to shift position on the seat when reclined.

Abstract: The invention relates to an active dynamic seating (1) comprising a foot part (2), a seat (3) and a deflectable pendulum column (4) that is designed as a main pillar. The pendulum column is connected to the foot part (2) by means of a pendulum joint (5) that counteracts a deflection with a restoring force, and the seat (3) is resiliently arranged at/on the pendulum column. The seating further comprises a device (6) for defining the rearward direction, e.g. a backrest or a similar design element, which device is arranged on the seat. The foot part (2) of the seating is provided with a safety element (7) which counteracts a rearward pendulum motion of the pendulum column (4) with a higher resistance than the resistance of the restoring force in the other directions, said safety element (7) having a deflection limiter (8) formed in the pendulum joint (5).

Abstract: Organic fibers and inorganic fibers, used as materials, are mixed, thereby forming a web 18. Inter-fiber bonding is then performed on the web, forming a non-woven fabric web. The non-woven fabric web is cut, providing a web piece 18a shaped like a seat pad 30. The web piece is set in a metal mold and then compressed in the metal mold. Next, the metal mold is heated, thereby heating the organic fibers of the web piece, at surface, thereby welding the organic fibers together and molding a seat pad. The seat pad is covered with a trim cover, producing a cushion. The organic fibers are used in mixing ratio of 50% by weight or more, and the inorganic fibers are used in mixing ratio of 50% by weight or less. The organic fibers are made of simple high-molecular substance such as polyethylene fibers.

Abstract: A thoracic support for a seat back of a seat is provided. The thoracic support structure is pivotally attached to the seat back and pivots between a first position and a second position. In the second position the support structure supports at least a portion of the thoracic region of the user's spine. An actuator disposed between a support surface and the support structure pivots the support structure from the first position to the second position upon actuation.

Abstract: The invention relates to a back rest arrangement, in particular for an office chair, comprising a deformable back rest extending in vertical (H) and transverse direction (Q) comprising a lordosis support region that can be adjusted in terms of height and curvature, wherein an adjustment device for adjusting the height and the curvature of the lordosis support region is arranged on the back rest support arm in an adjustable manner in terms of height and wherein the adjustment device is connected to the back rest on fastening arms protruding in the transverse direction (Q) by means of bearings comprising counter bearings on the back rest side.

Abstract: A split ottoman linkage having a plurality of interconnected links that move a middle ottoman and a front ottoman from a closed position to an extended position. The middle ottoman moves in a relatively constant radial arc, such that a chaise pad can be used on the chair. The middle ottoman and the front ottoman are positioned adjacent one another in the closed position, and are spaced from one another in the extended position.

Abstract: A wall bench for use in a school building is disclosed. The wall bench is comprised of a platform and a vertical support. In front of the vertical support is a bench and a backing positioned angularly that supports a black board, white board, or electronic screen. Beneath the bench is storage space. Behind the vertical support is additional storage space.

Abstract: A bed step device is provided for assisting a human or pet in climbing into and/or out of a bed. The device includes a base, at least one step attached to the base, and a retention member attached to the base. The retention member is configured to be disposed and retained between opposed surfaces of a bed, typically either the opposed surfaces of a mattress and a box spring or those of a box spring and a bed frame. The disposition of the retention member between the opposed surfaces results in a retention force, typically a friction force, to resist sliding movement of the device across a floor surface on which the device is supported. The retention member may be a rigid panel or a flexible sheet. The base and step or steps may comprise a folding staircase linkage or a rigid, unitary housing including a storage compartment.

Abstract: A bed apparatus has a housing with an intake duct, a closeable vent, and an exhaust port. The intake duct is configured to intake air from an area outside of a bed. The closeable vent is configured to selectively supply the air to the bed. The exhaust port is configured to selectively return the air to the area outside of the bed. At least one electric fan is disposed within the housing between the closeable vent and the intake duct. In operation, the bed apparatus can be switched from a sound-enrichment-only function, to a sound-enrichment-and-bed-air-delivery function, simply by closing and opening the vent, respectively. The bed apparatus may further include a clamp for securing a bed cover above the housing.

Abstract: A main mattress and a supplement mattress attached thereto. The supplement mattress may have a main body having two lateral extensions, a footboard extension, a headboard extension, and a tubular structure. Extensions can be rotated 90° or 180° together with the tubular structure. A fitted sheet may also be provided. The surface of the mattress assembly can be expanded and it may provide a safety barrier for preventing the user from falling to the ground.

Abstract: A release valve for connection to an inflatable cushion comprising an air conduit, a fitting at a first end of the air conduit for insertion into an air tube in fluid communication with the interior of the cushion, and an air inlet port at the opposite end of the air conduit and a filter assembly at the air inlet port. There is first, vertically orientated, spring biased ball valve centrally positioned in the air conduit including at least one air egress vent and being operatively associated with a spring biased actuator in the ball valve housing for opening the first ball valve. The button and first ball valve define a gap to minimize accidental air release. A second longitudinally orientated, spring biased ball valve is positioned in the air conduit adjacent the air inlet port.

Abstract: An access-optimized infant support device comprising a lower support frame and a seat or resting portion supported on the lower support frame, whereby the lower support frame maintains the seat or resting portion at a height allowing a line-of-sight eye-contact interaction between an infant on the seat or resting portion and an adult seated at a standard dining table, and also allows close proximity between the infant on the seat or resting portion and an adult seated on a standard sofa.

Abstract: A baby and small child carrier, includes a waist strap and a carry bag that extends from a lower end to an upper end. At least during the use of the baby and small child carrier a main section of the lower end of the carry bag is connected to the waist strap, so that during a first use state, a first connecting width is obtained between the carry bag and the waist strap. At least one additional element, or at least one additional section of the carry bag, or at least one additional section of the waist strap is provided, so that the carry bag can be connected adjacent to the lower end of the main section to the waist strap, so that for a second use state a wider, second connecting width is obtained between the carry bag and the waist strap, compared to the first connecting width.

Abstract: A foldable frame assembly for a playpen includes a collapsible bottom frame which has a central support mount, a plurality of linking elements, a plurality of first linking rods and a plurality of second linking rods. The linking elements are pivoted between the central support mount and the lower end of the plurality of pillars respectively. Each of the linking elements is provided with a sliding part for moving along the linking elements. When the central support mount was lifted upward, the second linking rods are associated with the first linking rods through the sliding parts thereby incurring an inward torque to prevent the pillars from deflecting outward. By such of the inward torque, users can save their troublesome of stretching hands to hold and keep the pillars uprightly while converting the playpen into its folded configuration.

Abstract: A bumper attachment for a child carrier generally comprised of a locking mechanism, a handle placement guide, a rigid body contour, and a layer of cushioning material. The locking mechanism locks the handle of a child carrier into the handle placement guide, thereby positioning the layer of cushioning material that abuts the rigid body contour against the body of the user.

Abstract: A cooling cassette for a refrigerated merchandiser and a refrigerated merchandiser is provided. The cassette contains a housing and a cooling section and heating section disposed within the housing. The cooling section contains a receptacle that houses an evaporator and an evaporator fan. The heating section contains a compressor, a condenser, and a condenser fan. The receptacle forms a partition within the housing and thermally insulates the cooling section from the heating section. The cooling cassette provides a more compact design with a reduced height and volume while meeting the performance and cooling requirements for a refrigerated cabinet operatively associated with the cooling cassette. As such, the cooling cassette also provides a more efficient cooling operation and a refrigerated cabinet with more usable storage and cooling space.

Abstract: A merchandiser panel assembly including a panel body at least partially defining a cavity. The merchandiser panel assembly includes a trim base attached to the panel body and partially enclosing the cavity along an edge of the panel body. The trim base is defined by an elongated body and includes an attachment feature positioned along at least one edge of the elongated body. The merchandiser panel assembly includes trim coupled to an exterior surface of the trim base. The merchandiser panel assembly includes insulation disposed within the cavity and captured by the panel body and the trim base.

Abstract: The present invention includes various types of open-air display cases for displaying, storing, and/or vending food, beverages, or other products having a movable barrier that can be automatically positioned over an open front or side of such a unit to prevent access to the products therein when temperatures or other conditions reach unacceptable levels, and methods of using such units. Embodiments of such units may include a temperature-controlled compartment having an open front or side for displaying items, an automatic barrier system that includes a barrier for covering the open portion, a motor engaged with the barrier for closing or opening the barrier, at least one sensor for measuring at least one internal condition (e.g.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a bracket or support member (119.771) including a body (119.770), at least one arm or hook extending away from the body that can be inserted through an aperture (104.704) in a support means (104.700), the at least one arm or hook (119.722) including an end portion (119.720) which is adapted to be received into a recess (104.702) on a rear surface of the support means (104.700). A support system (FIG. 124) is also disclosed which utilises the bracket or support member (119.771) in combination with an apertured panel (124.700). The invention also relates to bracket systems and brackets.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a checkout counter which includes loading areas, registration area and packing comprising; a loading area, a registration area comprising means for parallel checkout and registration of purchased goods where the means at least comprises; a first registration zone, a second registration zone, and at least one registration means adapted to register goods from the first and the second registration zone, and a packing area configured to receive goods from two registration zones in parallel. It is also disclosed a method for operation of a checkout counter according to one embodiment of the invention.

Abstract: A picture frame device includes generally sturdy and rigid base section having a plurality of connectors disposed thereon. A frame unit having central aperture and a plurality of complementary connectors is secured to the base section in a removable manner. A picture is removably positioned within the central aperture.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for displaying a ribbon by providing a fascia board that is mounted onto a mounting surface. The ribbon is wrapped around the fascia board so as to position a medallion to hang at the end of the ribbon. Once the ribbon and medallion are properly positioned, then a pin is used to secure the placement of the ribbon relative to the fascia board.

Abstract: A mounting system and method for displaying viewable content on a supporting surface includes a frame assembly having a backing, a frame, means for securing viewable content between the backing and frame, and means for removing and replacing viewable content. The system includes a mount removable connected to the supporting surface and having an outer conduit having an inner surface, an aperture extending in a longitudinal direction, and a circumferential groove disposed within the inner surface. An anchor is integrally connected to the backing of the frame assembly and has a central axis. The anchor has an inner conduit and a spring-loaded pin having a longitudinal axis and configured to be inserted into the aperture of the outer conduit of the mount along the longitudinal direction. The system includes means for connecting the anchor and mount in a rotatable relationship about the central axis.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes and teaches a low cost, lightweight adjustable hanger and system that can be used in conjunction with any number of hangable objects. The adjustable hanger includes a hanger as the uppermost portion of the device. The mounting bracket of the adjustable hanger is attached to a wall with adhesives or mechanical means such as nails or screws. Once secured, the adjuster can be manipulated to cause the hanging and positioning bracket to move up or down depending on the user's preference. Once the proper height is reached, a hangable object is hung from a hanging portion of the adjustable hanger. In some instances, multiple adjustable hangers may be used to precisely position a single hangable object.

Abstract: A support cushion is provided that includes a core comprised of a first flexible foam and a second flexible foam. Both the first flexible foam and the second flexible foam include a reticulated cellular structure, with the first flexible foam having a density less than the second flexible foam. A sleeve is also included in the support cushion and encapsulates the core.

Abstract: A pillow includes an upper surface, a lower surface and side edges wherein the upper surface includes a raised edge proximate the upper and lower edges of the upper surface. The upper surface includes at least one cut out through either the raised edge proximate the upper or lower edge that is configured to support the user's neck in an anatomically correct position. A recessed surface in the upper surface for supporting the back surface of the user's neck and cranium and the sides of the user's head extends from proximate a left edge to proximate a right edge and is in communication with the at least one cut out. The pillow is of a sufficient height to extend from the user's neck to above the user's ears and face. The pillow includes at least one internal armature that is flexible and bendable such that the pillow can be manipulated into a selected configuration with manual force.

Abstract: Disclosed is a disposable tablecloth that can adjustably cover tabletops of various sizes and shapes. In one embodiment, the tablecloth includes a planar sheet of material having a substantially rectangular shape with a defined perimeter having elastic attached thereto, wherein the elastic may be stitched to the perimeter. The tablecloth further includes a plurality of folds that is parallel to the longitudinal sides of thereof. In this way, the tablecloth resembles an accordion like construction, whereby the folds can be flattened or stretched to expand the tablecloth. The tablecloth of the present invention is adapted to snugly fit the tabletop on which it is installed to provide a neat appearance while preventing the tablecloth from easily disengaging from the tabletop.

Abstract: Drink holder and food container (1) comprising an upper portion (2) formed by a set of side walls (8) and a bearing surface (9) joined and connected in an articulated manner to a lower portion (3), formed by a set of side walls (8) and a bearing surface (9), wherein at least one of the bearing surfaces (9) comprises a hole (6), which forms part of the container in which a cup (5) is inserted, such that when a single container (1) contains both a cup (5) and food, the consumer can carry everything with just one hand or arm. The container (1) can be held by holding the cup (5). The hole (6) may be circular, polygonal or of different geometric shapes and is always complementary to the shape of the cup (5).

Abstract: A lid assembly for sealingly closing an interior of a container that is configured to receive a liquid substance. The lid assembly has a lid and a collapsible funnel. The lid defines an opening, a hinge, and a sealing element. The sealing element is configured for pivotal movement relative to the hinge about and between an open position and a closed position. The collapsible funnel defines a spout and is operatively coupled to the lid. The collapsible funnel is positioned in a compressed state when the sealing element of the lid is in the closed position. When the sealing element of the lid is moved from the closed position to the open position, the collapsible funnel moves from the compressed state to an expanded state. In the expanded state, the collapsible funnel extends outwardly from the outer surface of the lid relative to the central axis of the opening of the lid. Optionally, the lid assembly can be integrally formed with a body of a liquid container.

Abstract: A reclosable cup lid that can include an upper surface having at least one recess formed therein, that is arcuate in shape. The reclosable cup lid can also include a tab configured to fit within the recess. The tab having an arcuate shape corresponding to the arcuate shape of the recess. The reclosable cup lid can also include an opening disposed within the recess to allow fluid flow therethrough. The tab can be adapted to move within the recess from a first position to a second position so that the opening is at least partially blocked when the tab is located in the first position and the opening is at least partially unobstructed when the tab is located in the second position.

Abstract: A combined baby bottle, sippy cup, and dry storage container holds wet or dry material, and may support a nipple top, sippy top, or closed top on an interchangeable basis. Each top may also be removed, such that the contents may be eaten with fingers or a utensil. A telescoping spoon, suitable for use by a toddler, is stored within the sippy top in a separate chamber. All components are shatterproof and dishwasher safe.

Abstract: A vessel has an inner flap and an outer flap that fold across a base of the vessel to form a cover. The inner flap includes a dam tab along the outer edge of the inner flap. When the inner flap is folded down, the free edge of this tab contacts the wall of the vessel and bends upward forming a “folded edge” dam. This folded edge dam can either be one segment or be made of two or more segments divided by one or more V-shaped cuts to allow each segment to fold down and fit together seamlessly. A restrictive channel is formed by the outer and inner flaps together with the “folded edge” dam, which is present in-between the outer and inner flaps.

Abstract: A cooking utensil having a metal food holding member, a shaft member, a nut, and a handle is provided. The shaft member has a body portion and a threaded portion. The body portion has a slot therein. The threaded portion extends from the body portion and defines first threads thereon. An end portion of the metal food holding member is received in the slot and is coupled to the body portion. The nut is threadably received on the first threads of the threaded portion. The handle includes internal threads communicating with a first aperture of the handle. The first threads of the threaded portion are threadably received on the internal threads of the handle, such that the nut abuts against the handle and is disposed between the handle and the body portion of the shaft member.

Abstract: A table edge cup holder; said cup holder comprising a cup holder portion and a handle portion; said handle portion formed to engage with an element of said table.

Abstract: This invention relates to a clothes hanger for supporting an item of clothing. The clothes hanger includes a hanging means for hanging the clothes hanger from a support means, and further includes an electronic display device located in the region of the neck portion 5 of the clothes hanger, the electronic display device including a viewing screen adapted to display promotional and/or informational material. The arrangement and construction is such that the electronic display device is adapted to be activated, or activatable, upon the clothes hanger being removed from the support means by a user.

Abstract: A bootie application device that provides booties that slide along a rail system on tabs that releasably connect the booties to the rail system. A tensioning apparatus connects the rail system to the bootie application device. When an increased tension is applied to the rail system, the tensioning apparatus permits the rail system to move away from the application device by the expansion of the tensioning apparatus. When the increased tension is removed from the rail system, the rail system is drawn back toward the application device by the contraction of the tensioning apparatus.

Abstract: A shoe remover includes a first member having first and second end portions, the first end portion having at least one aperture associated therewith and the second end portion being configured to engage a shoe. The shoe remover further includes a second member having first and second end portions, the first end portion being positioned proximate the first end portion of the first member and the second end portion being configured to contact a support surface. The shoe remover still further includes a pin pivotally coupling the first member and the second member and a lock member coupled to the second member. The lock member has at least one rod extending therefrom, the at least one rod being configured to releasably engage with the at least one aperture.

Abstract: The Z-Hook is a new wall hanging device because it uses a single, bent, flat or round piece of metal which increases strength and load carrying ability, has much simpler manufacturing (a minimum of 2 bends and a point), and can be made by modifying current hooks and nails. The Z-Hook resembles a slightly modified letter “Z” in shape. The flat version uses a pointed, flat wall insertion part that increases strength and load carrying ability, both types can be scaled up using any width or strength of material to secure a wide range of loads, and the Z-Hook can also be used to secure many other items (such as clothes hooks, shelves, and TVs) to walls.

Abstract: A bottle cross frame and method for making a bottle cross. The bottle cross frame provides a metal framework structured to receive four bottles, typically of wine bottle shape and size, and to retain the bottles in a cross shape. The frame includes a top post for receiving a single upside down bottle, as well as two side arms to each receive a single bottle to form the lateral arms of the cross. A base of the cross is formed by positioning a bottle upright between a base pin and a bottom bracket positioned along a stand component. The frame includes a stake stand component and an alternate bracket component.

Abstract: A display system adapted to be adorned by a plurality of interchangeable display objects is provided. The display system may include a display sheet and a plurality of removable fasteners. The display sheet may include a display image, motif, message or the like incorporated thereon. The display sheet may be adapted to be hung from a vertical support. The plurality of removable fasteners may be adapted to removably secure at least one display object to the display sheet so that the display objects can be arranged as desired or demanded.

Abstract: A curtain assembly comprises a rotatable drive element wherein at least one helical guide structure is formed on, or into, the outer surface of the drive element. A drive attachment element having a structure that communicates with the helical guide structure to move the drive attachment element axially along the drive element when the drive element is rotated. Specific embodiments incorporate either a manual or motor-driven rotation assembly for rotating the drive element. Further specific embodiments involve a helical guide structure that comprises a helical groove and a structure that comprises a tooth that engages with the helical groove.

Abstract: A system and method for storing, preserving and cooking meals using the sous-vide technique. The system and method of the present invention is designed to automatically cook, upon request a meal having various ingredients by immersing bagged food in temperature controlled liquid. The cooking time may be manually or automatically programmed from downloaded cooking direction associated with the food. The cooking request may be given by a user from the physical apparatus or using a mobile device application.

Abstract: Provided is a household electrical food-cooking appliance including: a housing having a container arranged such as to receive the food to be cooked; a removable cover arranged such as to close the container while cooking; at least one safety switch arranged in the housing in order to turn off at least one electrical circuit of the appliance when the cover is not closing the container and in order to turn on said at least one electrical circuit when the cover is closing the container; and a cam having at least one control surface arranged such as to actuate a key for controlling said at least one safety switch in a direction in which the control key is pressed.

Abstract: An additivation device (2) for beverages (B) adds at least one additive (A) to at least one beverage (B). The device (2) includes at least one first inlet duct (30), through which at least one beverage (B) coming from a source is introduced into the device (2), and at least one second inlet duct (40), through which at least one additive (A) is introduced into the device (2). The additive (A) is a fluid and is contained in at least one container (21). The device includes at least one outlet duct (39), through which the beverage (B), to which said at least one additive (A) has been added, exits the device (2). The device (2) includes an additivator device (5) for taking a known quantity of the at least one additive (A) and mixing the additive (A) with the beverage (B). The device (2) supplies and mixes the at least one additive (A) with the beverage (B) while the beverage (B) is flowing between the at least one first inlet duct (30) and the outlet duct (39).

Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage from an ingredient capsule (20), comprises: an ingredient capsule processing module (15) having a chamber (16,17) for processing the capsule therein; a passage (2) for a transfer of the capsule to the chamber; and a capsule positioner (40) having at least one member (45a, 45b) which delimits a seat (44) for receiving the capsule, the movable member (s) being movable from a position for receiving and holding the capsule to a position for releasing the capsule into the passage. The movable member (s) (45a, 45b) is/are arranged to: hold the capsule generally vertically above the passage in the receiving and holding position; and drop the capsule generally vertically from the capsule positioner into the passage in the releasing position.

Abstract: An extraction unit (10) for extracting cartridges (1a; 1b) of two different dimensions (da, ha; db, hb) comprises a seat (14,20) for receiving any of these cartridges (1a; 1b) for extraction thereof in the seat. The seat is delimited by a first part (20, 30, 33) and second part (12,13,14) that are relatively movable between a cartridge extraction position and a cartridge loading and/or ejection position. The first delimiting part has a first member (30) and a second member (33) that are relatively movable between:—a first member position delimiting a cartridge cavity of a first depth (Ha) for receiving a cartridge (1a) having a first height (ha); and—a second member position in which the ca cartridge cavity has a second depth (Hb) different to the first depth (Ha) for receiving a cartridge (1b) having a second height (hb) different to the first height (ha).

Abstract: An extraction unit (10) for extracting cartridges (1a;2b) of two different dimensions (da,ha;db,hb) comprises a seat (14,20) for receiving any of such cartridges (1a;2b) and for extraction thereof in the seat. The unit (10) further comprises a pair of slides (19a) for guiding any of such cartridges (1a;1b) towards the seat (14,20) in a sliding contact of each of these slides (19a) with a cartridge guide (5a;5b) of the cartridges (1a; 1b). The slides are relatively movable to be spaced selectively by a first and second distance (Da, Db) according to the size (da, db) of the cartridge.

Abstract: Machine for preparing beverages from capsules, wherein the machine has a vertical axis (V-V) and comprises a dispensing assembly (1), the assembly in its turn comprising: means for containing a capsule (3), comprising a first element (4) and a second element (5) movable one respect to the other to define, in a closed position, a chamber for extracting the capsule, according to an axis (A-A) of said means; guiding means (2) for inserting the capsule (3) inside said assembly (1), and for retaining it in an intermediate position, different from the extraction position of the beverage; and ducts for feeding an infusion fluid into said capsule and dispensing a beverage from said capsule, characterized in that said axis (A-A) of the containing means (4, 5) of the capsule (3) is tilted with respect to the vertical axis (V-V) of the machine of an angle (?) lower than 45 degrees.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a French press combination grinder, filter, and drinking vessel, and method of making coffee. The system has a motor base, a container body, and two selectively removable container bases. The first removable container base has a blade, and the second removable container base has a plunger and filtering unit. Coffee beans are placed in the container body and ground when the first selectively removable container base is attached to the container body. Then, after the coffee is ground, the first base is removed and hot water is poured into the container body. The user then attaches the second container base and depresses the filtering unit to separate the coffee slurry into a liquid portion on top and coffee grounds portion on the bottom. The user may then drink the coffee directly from the same container that ground and filtered the coffee beans.