Abstract: A Method and Apparatus for Comparing Colors have been disclosed. In one implementation a compliant membrane which is substantially transparent with an area having a shade/color is placed on the user's skin to see what the shade/color will look like on the skin. In one implementation a compliant substrate which is largely transparent with an area having a shade/color is placed on an inanimate object to see how the shade/color will appear on the inanimate object without the substrate itself causing an unnecessary barrier between the inanimate object and the shade/color.

Abstract: A card holder for storing a plurality of transaction cards in a stacked alignment inside a case with a lever arm that when lifted, forces the lateral edges of the cards outward in a fan-like manner through a side opening formed on the case. The case includes a close cavity with a lower frame configured to hold a stack of transaction cards. The lower frame includes a flexible arm used to support the cards. The lever arm includes a push arm that extends into the case and positioned adjacent to the inside edges of the cards. When the lever arm is lifted, the push arm travels in an arc inside the case. Formed on the push arm are a plurality of sequentially offset steps configured to individually press against the adjacent edges of the cards causing the cards to rotate and extend in a fan-like manner through the side opening.

Abstract: Devices and methods for displaying beauty and other visual products are disclosed. A display system can include a frame and a sample portion. Traits such as color and texture of a beauty product can be displayed on the sample portion, and the frame portion can interface with product shelving to align samples with relevant products in the display. The sample portion can be releasably attached to the frame to be removed by a user and be placed above a body part of the user to which a beauty product may be applied, or a body part can be placed in proximity to the sample portion even while it is attached to the frame. The user can advantageously view the beauty product as applied to the body part without applying the beauty product. The system is useful for fingernail polish display, for example.

Abstract: Devices, systems, and components for attaching a modular element to a lateral surface at a variety of different angles include a connector module having a modular element interface on one end and a lateral surface interface on an opposing end. A flexible tip seal is located at the lateral surface interface of the connector module. The flexible tip seal enables an assembler to attach a modular element to a desired lateral structure at a variety of different angles.

Abstract: A colorant sample comprising a flexible pouch with a portion of the colorant, paint, or stain therein, wherein the pouch may have an opaque area and a transparent window and may have removable label thereon, and the portion of colorant may be dispensed into the pouch from a reservoir that is agitated.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention provides a cash plate comprising: a cash tray; a display tray attached to the cash tray and located next to the cash tray; one or more advertisement placement means located under the cash tray for placing and displaying an advertisement; and a base under the cash tray, the display tray and the advertisement placement means. One aspect of the invention provides a method of advertising comprising the steps of: placing an advertisement on a cash plate; and presenting cash on the cash plate to a customer at a point of sale.

Abstract: A device for holding coinage and paper currencies collected from a vending machine comprising a single ply wear resistant, opaque and waterproof container formed into two compartments joined at their base by a line of reinforced stitching or adhesive, having open ends parallel to and opposite their joined base. Each compartment has a securing means affixed to the open end, thereby enabling separate storage of coinage and paper currencies collected from the vending machine.

Abstract: A tamperproof case for a genuine article which comprises a space for accommodating the article between first and second sheet members which are capable of being permanently bonded together in at least the area that substantially completely surrounds the space. At least one of the first and second sheet members comprises at least one security element that is invisible under light in the visible wavelength range. This abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a one-part polymer grout composition tintable to any desired color upon request, as well as to a method of tinting the grout composition. Advantageously, the present one-part polymer grout compositions may be tinted using any of the multiplicity of commercially available universal colorants, according to fandecks of color based upon the same, or by visual or computerized color matching. Similarly, since conventional universal colorants may be employed, the equipment utilized to tint and agitate paint in order to provide any desired color may be utilized to tint the present grout compositions. A kit is also provided, comprising the tintable grout composition and instructions for tinting the grout composition according to the method.

Abstract: A coin holder having edge view optics. The coin holder includes a coin having an obverse side, a reverse side and a coin edge having features on the coin edge. The features can include lettering, decorative patterns or other features of interest. An optical frame is configured to surround the coin edge and includes reflective surfaces that project an image of the coin edge to a viewing side of the optical frame, where the features of the coin edge can be viewed in a desired orientation.

Abstract: A collectable display panel device with data storage component is described. The device comprises at least one display panel having at least one user accessible opening for housing and displaying at least one collectable object. At least one display panel includes visual markings associative with at least one collectable object. A nonvolatile electronic data storage component is detachably stored on at least one display panel and includes associative visual markings of the visual markings of at least one display panel. In another embodiment, the nonvolatile electronic data storage component is non-detachably stored on at least one display panel. The nonvolatile electronic data storage component is configured to store at least one immutable digital picture image, at least in part, relating to the visual markings of at least one display panel, and the nonvolatile electronic data storage component is compatible and connectable to a computer system or equivalent system for operation.

Abstract: The present invention is a coin inventory storage apparatus which allows a coin collector to store and display multiple coins. The coin inventory storage apparatus contains a plurality of selectively removable tubular structures for storing and displaying coins.

Abstract: In various exemplary embodiments, a coin storage device is disclosed. The coin storage device comprises an encapsulation portion configured to secure a coin therein and allow for visual inspection of the coin. A viewing port is arranged on an edge of the encapsulation portion and is configured to both allow a light source to impinge upon an edge of the coin and return a light signal from the edge of the coin.

Abstract: A paint tray including a mechanically-openable lid and a mechanism for opening the lid.

Abstract: A coin-roll storage 1 comprises a storage body 1a and a coin-roll drawer 11 (12, 13) having a plurality of coin-roll storage portions 14 provided therein, each coin-roll storage portion 14 being adapted for storing one coin roll therein. Each coin-roll storage portion 14 of the coin-roll drawer 11 (12, 13) is adapted for storing therein the coin roll of any denomination. A determination unit 16 is adapted for determining the denomination of each coin roll by detecting an outer diameter, an axial length and material of the coin roll.

Abstract: The scratch lottery coin holder is adapted for use when playing a scratch-off lottery game. The coin holder includes a housing fabricated from a pliable material having a recess for removably receiving a coin therein. An edge of the coin protrudes from the recess so that the edge may be utilized to scratch the surface of a scratch-off lottery ticket. The coin holder will have an outer surface inscribed or embossed with desired advertisement indicia or the like. The coin holder may also be combined with a key chain for convenience and practicality.

Abstract: According to aspects of the invention provided are apparatus, systems and methods for monitoring the presence/absence of syringes within a storage unit and monitoring the amount of drugs that are discharged from syringes when they are not within the storage unit. Monitoring the presence/absence of syringes within the storage unit is accomplished using a combination of imaging sensors and a RFID tag reader. The method includes detecting and decoding signals from RFID tags to determine which syringes are present/absent from the storage unit and the times at which syringes are removed and returned to the storage unit The method also includes collecting visual information with respect to when syringes are removed and returned to the storage unit. The timing information from the RFID reader and the imaging sensors are compared to resolve the identification of syringes.

Abstract: An authentication and identification device for a collectable object is described. The device comprises a holder formed for assembly with at least one collectable object having certification authenticity, to provide protection and preservation of the collectable object. The holder is further formed to resist disassembly and separation with the collectable object. The device also comprises a covert identification marking that provides a means for a user to view certification authenticity relating to the collectable object. The covert identification marking is nondetachably secured to the authentication and identification device, and, provides a means via a computerized device, for a user to verify certification authenticity and information relating to the collectable object.

Abstract: A collectable display panel and data storage device is described. The invention involves at least one display panel that is formed for housing and displaying at least one collectable object, such as a coin. The display panel has associative visual markings for one or more collectable objects. A data storage device has associative visual markings with at least one display panel, and comprises data related to one or more collectable objects that are housed in the display panel. The data storage device is stored in the display panel, and is compatible with a standard computer system. Thus, it is connectable, directly or indirectly to a computer system or equivalent system by wired or wireless means. In one embodiment of the present invention, the collectable object is a coin.

Abstract: A data storage device for use in combination with at least one collectable object is described. The data storage device is formed detached from the collectable object. The collectable object is provided with tamper resistant visual markings. And, the data storage device is provided with tamper resistant visual markings associative with the visual markings of the collectable object so as to provide association of the data storage device with the collectable object. The data storage device is compatible with a standard computer system to provide a user with at least one predetermined characteristic of the collectable object with or without an external database.

Abstract: A protection, authentication, identification device for a collectable object is described. The device comprises a holder formed for assembly with at least one collectable object to provide protection and preservation of said collectable object. The holder is further formed to resist disassembly and separation with the collectable object, once it is assembled. The protection, authentication, identification device also comprises a data storage device which comprises data of at least one stored digital image of the collectable object. The data storage device is nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identification device. And, the data storage device is compatible with a standard computer system for display and inspection of the digital image of the collectable object by a user to aid the user in the authentication of the collectable object. In some embodiments, for example, the collectable object is a coin.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a one-part polymer grout composition tintable to any desired color upon request, as well as to a method of tinting the grout composition. Advantageously, the present one-part polymer grout compositions may be tinted using any of the multiplicity of commercially available universal colorants, according to fandecks of color based upon the same, or by visual or computerized color matching. Similarly, since conventional universal colorants may be employed, the equipment utilized to tint and agitate paint in order to provide any desired color may be utilized to tint the present grout compositions. A kit is also provided, comprising the tintable grout composition and instructions for tinting the grout composition according to the method.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for preparing a fluid for a medical procedure by mixing of at least one medicament in the form of powder with water, the medicament is held in a vessel which defines a bottom, a side wall, and a top opening which is closed by an membrane for sealing the inside of the vessel. The apparatus includes an opener for opening the membrane of the vessel.

Abstract: The embodiment of this invention is disclosed, which describes a device to carry two cans at one time in a secure fashion. This invention allows the user of the device to carry either pint or quart sized cans to any site in a secure fashion. It rests on a base, which will allow the user to lay it on a level surface. The cans themselves are securely fastened to the device using a spring, which is located between the bottom of a handle and the top surface of a clamp. A T-handle allows the user to carry the device from site to site.

Abstract: The present invention relates to color-matching articles used to color-match paint formulations to target substrates.

Abstract: A book that is capable of displaying one or more coins related to its theme, including a front cover and a back cover. At least one book cover defines one or more apertures that are capable of receiving coins. The book theme is displayed on at least one of the book covers. The book may optionally include one or more caps that may be inserted into and removed from the coin-receivable apertures. These caps will preferably display images that are related to the theme of the book. The invention provides a coin specific display that stores and displays one or more coins in an appealing manner, and that also conveys or provides additional information about the theme displayed on the coin.

Abstract: A paint activity tray has a first section with a workspace at least partly surrounded by a channel for holding excess water and a second section with recesses holding containers for water and watercolor paint blocks. A container with a handle holding paint brushes to drip dry is provided in one embodiment. The paint activity tray protects surrounding area from spills and drips since all of the components for making a watercolor painting are contiguous, and the containers for water and paint are securely held in recesses of the tray.

Abstract: A make up kit comprises a base material in which colorants may be mixed to achieve desired hues that may then be applied to a person. The kit may further comprise a mixing dish in which the make up may be mixed and an instructional aide that instructs users on how to mix the make up paints and apply the paints.

Abstract: A floppy disk cartridge adapter having a removable coin shaped memory disk. The 3½ inch size cartridge adapter can fit into conventional personal computer disk drives. The small coin shaped magnetic disk has a diameter of approximately 1 inch, and can be easily snapped into and removed from the cartridge adapter. The coin disk fits on a spindle that is side by side to the floating drive plate used in regular 3½ inch floppy diskettes. The spindle can be attached by various drive systems to rotate simultaneously with the rotating drive plate. One version is belt driven, another has the coin disk snap onto a spindle supported wheel whose sides frictionally rub against the drive plate wheel, and a third version has the coin disk snap onto the spindle supported gear wheel whose sides contain teeth which mateably engage like side teeth on the drive plate wheel.

Abstract: A container for holding various articles and which contains a moisture control system for reducing humidity within the container. The moisture control system prevents moisture from penetrating in the interior of the container and reduces humidity that enters the interior when the lid of the container has been opened. The moisture control system comprises a moisture cup that is received within an opening in the container, a desiccant holder that is carried by the cup, a mesh screen that is dimensioned to receive a desiccant and a top. The moisture cup performs three functions: (1) it prevents moisture from penetrating the interior of the container through the opening; (2) it directs moisture from within the interior of the container to the desiccant; and (3) it holds the desiccant. In order to more conveniently transport the detergent, a strap is attached on each side of the container.

Abstract: A compact sunscreen and lotion applicator for applying lotions and creams to the body which comprises upper and lower structures, folding upon each other, joined together by a locking hinge when open or closed. The upper structure consists of a spare absorbent pad with base, secured with holders, and the lower structure having the main absorbent pad, secured with another set of holders for use to apply lotions and creams. A cord and a hook is provided to carry away, and a snap lock for the closure is provided. Overlap seal around upper and lower structures is provided to protect from accidental leakage in bags and luggage. A tong is provided to remove oily absorbent pads. A watch, a coin compartment and a mirror are also provided.

Abstract: A coin holder for a radio pager and the like includes a generally rectangular body having a planar back surface supporting an adhesive layer for attaching the coin holder to a surface of a pager casing, for example. The coin holder body includes spaced apart flanges defining a coin receiving slot and leaving an open space for viewing the coin holder to determine if a coin is in the coin holder slot. The flanges each include a partial arcuate recess on an inner surface for registration with the coin to support the coin against unwanted dislodgement from the holder. A boss is formed on a surface of the body between the flanges, preferably disposed at the center of the coin, to position the coin in the coin receiving recesses of the flanges. Another portion of the body includes a surface on which suitable indicia may be printed or applied to the coin holder.

Abstract: A console particularly for a motor vehicle includes several coin receiving recesses. Each recess is formed to include a generally arcuate lower surface and first and second spaced apart side surfaces. One of the first and second spaced apart side surface is formed to integrally include a coin retention member. The coin retention member is adapted to engage a coin and bias the coin against the opposite side to thereby prevent rattling during vehicle use. In the preferred embodiment, the recesses, including their associated coin retention members, are integrally formed with the console through an injection molded process. One suitable material for the console is polypropylene.

Abstract: A set of coins is arranged relative to a display having discrete regions associated with discrete coins within the set. In a preferred embodiment, the display is a map, and an opening is provided within the borders of or proximate to each state on the map in order to receive a respective coin.

Abstract: A coin holder can hold coins for use in making a telephone call or paying a toll or fare. The coin holder can be attached to any item in any suitable manner, and is quite suitable for attachment to an electronic pager on which individuals are often summoned to make phone calls. The coin holder has an interior and a cover which conceals the coin or coins held in the coin holder. The coin holder can be a piece which is attachable to any item or can be an integral part of the item itself, such as in the instance of an electronic pager, where the housing for the pager can form the interior of the coin holder and a releasably securable cover can be provided to cover that interior and conceal the coin or coins held therein. The housing surface may or may not be altered to accommodate the coin or coins. Where it is not altered, the coin or coins can simply be held against the housing surface. A latching mechanism may include an undercut and a boss member.

Abstract: A combination coin and key holder includes a coin holder housing which has an outline shaped as a vehicle. A closed loop is attached to the coin holder housing, preferably in the front end of the vehicle outline, for connection of a key ring, chain, or other key holding device thereto. A pair of coin slots are provided in the coin holder housing on the bottom side of the vehicle outline, with each slot being dimensioned to hold a specific coin. The coin slots are positioned and configured such that coins inserted thereon are reliably, yet removably retained in place, but such that they protrude sufficiently to have the appearance of a wheel or wheels on the vehicle outline.

Abstract: A color reference system for correlating colors to decorating parameters for an area. The system includes a color reference card for storage of a color sample and an associated identifier for correlating the color sample to an identifier. Area reference cards for different rooms or locations include decorating parameters such as primary, accent, and accessory color identifiers. When a color sample corresponds to a decorating parameter for a location, its identifier is recorded in association with the decorating parameter. The system may be transported to a decorating or paint store for efficient reference. By looking at a decorating parameter for an area and using the color identifier to find the color sample on the color reference card, a user can quickly find a color sample for comparison purposes without carrying color palettes having color samples which do not correspond to colors in an area to be decorated.

Abstract: A multi-function container includes a housing, a closure and an exterior light source. The container has a first interior portion adapted to hold small items. The closure is used to cover the first interior portion of the housing and to contain the small items in the first interior portion of the housing. The housing also has a second separate interior portion adapted to hold a battery. The light source is operatively coupled to the second interior portion to receive power from the battery, upon the battery being held within the second interior portion. Thus, the multi-function container may serve as a container and/or a flashlight. The multi-function container may also include a key ring which is coupled to an exterior surface of the closure, and may also include a clock coupled to the side of the housing.

Abstract: A dental care kit for simulating a visit of a fictional tooth fairy and instructing a child of the importance of proper dental care. The inventive kit includes a storage chest containing a plurality of envelopes, magical fairy dust contained within a fairy dust container, an ink pad, left and right foot stamps, a coin bag, and a plurality of written notes. A method of utilizing the kit includes placing a deciduous tooth within one of the envelopes and underneath a pillow of the child's sleeping accommodations. After the child falls asleep, a parent of the child removes the tooth in the envelope for storage within the chest, sprinkles the magical fairy dust around and about the child, utilizes the left and right foot stamps and ink pad to place footprints on or about the child, places an amount of money within the coin bag underneath the pillow, and leaves one of the written notes underneath the pillow along with the coin bag.

Abstract: There is disclosed a one piece coin holder having a main flat body, a central obstruction and openings at both ends suitable for insertion or egress of a predetermined number of coins. The open ends define a cavity with a slightly larger diameter than said coin but flexible protrusions are configured at said open ends in such a manner so as to trap said coin per it's diameter. The afore mentioned cavities would also hold said coins in a flat manner employing tabs which extend inward from the upper edge of said cavity walls defining an aperture portion. Said cavities would have dimensions consistent with those needed to hold new coins or ones with worn diameters and/or thickness'. There are also alignment rails Incorporated along the under side to aid in the installation process.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing coins in a vehicle includes a housing adapted to be located in a vehicle. A carrier is movably connected with respect to the housing and includes a coinholder. The carrier is movable between a stored position inside the housing to conceal the coinholder and a use position outside the housing to expose the coinholder to a user. A spring and latch are provided to facilitate movement between the stored and the use positions. Responsive to a push from a user, a carrier travels from the stored position to the use position. The carrier may be returned from the use position to the stored position by a further push from the user. A method for providing coin storage in a vehicle is also contemplated.

Abstract: A combination carrying case for a portable electronic pager and a coin dispenser includes an upright case body in which the front wall and one side wall have a reduced height, so that the pager is easily inserted into the receptacle defined by the case body. The coin dispenser includes a vertical coin chute integral with one side wall of the case body so that the chute has a relatively large coin capacity. Coins are extracted from the chute through a coin slot at the lower end of the chute. A spring clip is provided on the rear wall of the case for detachably mounting the case on the user's belt.

Abstract: A coin holding tool includes a rectangular frame with a slidable magnifier-loading platform, orthogonally disposed to and attachedly mounted thereon. The coin holding tool enables one to identify, arrange and preserve collected coins. Additionally, the means for loading a magnifier permits one to compare rare coins and distinguish and appreciate subtle differences in their respective appearances. A stand is also taught which enables the frame to be propped at an oblique angle.

Abstract: A coin carrier includes a front annular casing having a center hole, a rear annular casing having a center hole, and an intermediate annular casing connected between the front and rear annular casing and having a center hole aligned between the center holes of the front and rear annular casings, wherein the front annular casing can be turned about a movable axle pin to move the center hole thereof away from the center hole on the intermediate annular casing for permitting a coin or coins to be put into or removed from the center hole of said intermediate annular casing.

Abstract: A multi-function container includes a housing, a closure and an exterior light source. The container has a first interior portion adapted to hold small items. The closure is used to cover the first interior portion of the housing and to contain the small items in the first interior portion of the housing. The housing also has a second separate interior portion adapted to hold a battery. The light source is operatively coupled to the second interior portion to receive power from the battery, upon the battery being held within the second interior portion. Thus, the multi-function container may serve as a container and/or a flashlight. The multi-function container may also include a key ring which is coupled to an exterior surface of the closure, and may also include a clock coupled to the side of the housing.

Abstract: A kit and method for testing the color of paints to be applied to painted surfaces having primers or sealers thereon to determine if a paint color matches that of a painted surface. Preferably, the kit comprises a plurality of testing members removably mounted therein or thereon. The testing members have different primers or sealers thereon corresponding to those on different known painted surfaces. When a paint is to be applied to an area of a specific painted surface, the paint is first applied to one of the testing members having thereon the same primer or sealer as that on the painted surface. The painted testing member then is moved to a position adjacent the painted surface to compare the color of the paint on the testing member to that of the painted surface.

Abstract: The invention is a small, lightweight, container to hold both laundry detergent and coins. The two primary compartments are for storing liquid cleaning products and have reclosable lids with pouring spouts. The two compartments allow two different substances to be held and poured separate with a separate compartment that holds coins and a small uncovered space to hold miscellaneous items.

Abstract: Greetings along with a portrayal scene are duplicated on both a greeting card and a coin (medallion) packaged together in respective sections of a two section transparent plastic package. The package has a single opening at the top, an elongate rectangular card receiving pocket section at the top and a smaller lower pocket section at the bottom receiving the coin. The pocket sections are separated one from the other by opposite side transverse inwardly directed front and back plastic weld extensions that extend inwardly enough to provide a bottom for the the card receiving pocket section and yet leave enough opening for passage of the coin to and from the lower pocket section. The card, a folded over on itself card, may be removed to be signed personally and reinserted.

Abstract: A cash box has a loose coin tray which rests on a peripheral seal seated on a plain free edge defining a lip of a base of the cash box. The coin tray is supported by the seal and has a peripheral flange which rests on six inwardly directed tabs of the seal. The tray and the seal may be manufactured together as a one-piece plastics moulding and the moulding cut to separate the tray from the seal.

Abstract: Kits adapted to allow subjective evaluation and communication of gemstones include a number of simulated gemstones which are arranged in an ordered set according to their respective hue, chroma and/or value characteristics. Each of the simulated gemstones includes a multifaceted gemstone body portion (which preferably closely resembles a brilliant cut diamond) and a handle portion radially extending from the body portion. The handle portion allows the multifaceted body portion to be manipulated in ambient light conditions so the color can be adequately observed. The simulated gemstones are formed of a molded plastics material which exhibits unique color hue, chroma and value characteristics. The hue, chroma and value characteristics may be varied within an ordered set of the simulated gemstones so as to achieve a close color match with natural gemstones. These ordered sets of simulated gemstones may thus be displayed in respective trays.