Abstract: A graphite lubricated leather and a method for producing a graphite lubricated leather is provided. A chrome tanned leather having internal fiber matrix is lubricated by application of a graphite powder suspended in a gluteraldehyde solution which has the effect of penetrating and bonding with the internal fiber matrix of the chrome tanned leather. A highly lubricated dry metallic appearing leather product is provided by the treatment.

Abstract: A cross directional caliper control system for a calender. A coarse caliper control mechanism adjusts the pressure over a first range of values. A fine caliper control mechanism adjusts the pressure over a second range of values, where the second range of values is smaller than the first range of values. Sensors sense the dimension of the paper web passing through the calender. A control mechanism coupled to the coarse calender control mechanism, the fine calender mechanism and the sensors controls the caliper across the width of the paper by varying the nip pressure with both the coarse caliper control mechanism and the fine caliper control mechanism to shift the variability of the caliper so that it corresponds to nip pressure adjustments within the second range of values. Bumpless adjustments of the coarse control mechanism are made by making counteracting adjustments to the fine control mechanism.

Abstract: A resorbable surgical appliance for use in supporting soft tissue in a superior position in the body. The surgical appliance includes a coupling member that connects the surgical appliance to a bone or hard tissue and a gripping member or members secured to the coupling member selectively gripping soft tissue and retaining the soft tissue in a superior position. The connected coupling member and gripping member are formed from a resorbable mixture which maintains a specified percentage of the connection strength with the bone or hard tissue for a period of time at least equal to a healing period. Thereafter, the surgical appliance is substantially resorbed by the body over a period of time created for healing. The surgical appliance is particularly adapted for use in endoscopic brow lift surgery and other endoscopic cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgical procedures.

Abstract: An integrated packaging system, including a funnel, for containers of motor oil or other pourable materials. The packaging system is formed into a box out of a sheet of material, such as corrugated cardboard. One or more walls of the cardboard are partially die cut to allow selective removal of a section, with fold lines pre-stamped, which when folded form a funnel. The funnel is convenient, included as a part of the box, storable within the box and recyclable with the box when discarded.

Abstract: A one-handed closure and release mechanism for selectively shortening the dimension of an item utilizing frictional engagement of a stretchable elastic cord member and a restrictive guide structure having at least two openings. In various embodiments the elastic cord member may either be secured inside a channel or fixed within an object or garment or may have two free ends extending out of the closure mechanism. The one-handed closure mechanism operates by use of the exertion of force on the one or more free ends of the stretchable elastic cord member which results in the relative proportion of the stretchable elastic cord member inside the closure mechanism being reduced which, upon release of the tension, has the effect of causing the crushing of the object to reduce the length of the channel through which the elastic cord member extends inside of the restrictive mechanism.

Abstract: A packaging system for displaying merchandise on a rack system having a rack member. At least two pieces of merchandise are intended to be displayed together on the rack system. Each of the pieces of merchandise has a reinforcing member secured in the merchandise to provide at least one reinforced opening through each piece of the merchandise. A coupling mechanism extends through the reinforced opening in each piece of merchandise securing the pieces of merchandise to each other and supports the pieces of merchandise on the rack member. The at least two pieces of merchandise can be displayed on the rack system by hanging the coupling mechanism on the rack member and the at least two pieces of merchandise can be removed from the rack member and inspected and tested without affecting the attachment of the pieces of merchandise to each other.