Abstract: Method and apparatus for determining caloric expenditure of a subject. The apparatus includes a modified heat flow sensor having an overlay and/or conductive layer for measuring the evaporative heat loss component, in addition to substantially total heat loss, for the subject.

Abstract: Components for assembling furniture, particularly wrought iron tables. The components include a structure for attaching furniture legs to the main body of the furniture, an apparatus for affixing a glass or other insert into a furniture top, and a member for reducing noise caused by flexing in the furniture top, or in the case of an insert, a member for cushioning and supporting the insert.

Abstract: Patio furniture, for indoor or outdoor use, is formed by frame members made of aluminum tubular extrusions or similar materials. A plurality of straps or a one piece panel with several straps forms a seat and a back for the furniture. Each end of the strap is self-locked into a slot in the frame members. The locking element is either a shear formed tab which slides into the slot of the frame members and which is an integral part of the tang of each strap, or the locking element is an external fastener, such as a canoe clip, a screw, or a Christmas tree clip which is inserted through the end of the strap and into circular holes in the frame members.

Abstract: An improved crank handle assembly for a shade umbrella suitable for patio or beach use, which has a bolt and a crank formed as a unitary member where the head of the bolt is insert molded into the hub of the crank in its manufacture. An annular spacer is mounted on each end of the bolt. An end of the bolt has a reduced threaded portion, which receives a washer and a nut, and the main body of the bolt forms a shoulder adjacent to the threaded portion. The washer abuts against the shoulder and one of the spacers at one end of the bolt. Tightening of the nut causes the washer to bottom out against the shoulder, and the annular spacers to abut against the umbrella pole applying a predetermined amount of compressive force to the crank handle assembly and the umbrella pole.