Abstract: An internal lacing system wherein a plurality of lace guides having rotatable rollers are strategically positioned throughout a shoe to facilitate the securing of the foot within the shoe. First and second elongated laces are internally channeled through the respective lace guides and then exit the internal of the shoe at the inner side of the shoe. One end of the first elongated lace is secured within the shoe proximal to the toe area, and the other end of the first elongated lace exits the internal of the shoe at lower inner side portion of the shoe proximal to the sole of the shoe. One end of the second elongated lace is secured within the shoe proximal to the exit location of the other end such that the second elongated lace wraps around the heel of the shoe and thus around the user's ankle. To tighten the shoe, a user simply pulls on the exposed second ends of the first and second laces thereby allowing the laces to roll along each respective roller positioned within each lace guide.

Abstract: The thin section data display control panel of the present invention includes a graphic overlay, a diffuser block affixed to the graphic overlay and light emitting diodes surface mounted on a printed circuit board for providing localized sources of light to be transmitted through the diffuser block to the overlay. The graphic overlay is generally opaque, but has translucent areas through which the illumination shines. An overlay reflective portion on a diffuser side of the overlay reflects light back into the diffuser, except in areas adjacent to the translucent areas of the overlay. The diffuser block is affixed to the graphic overlay and is generally transparent for transmitting the light from the light emitting diodes. Block reflective surfaces on the perimeter edges of the diffuser block prevent light from exiting through the edges. Matte surfaces of the diffuser block adjacent the graphic overlay and adjacent the printed circuit board scatter the light transmitted from the light emitting diodes.

Abstract: A beverage making apparatus having an upper housing and a lower housing for heating cold water for making a beverage, such as coffee. The upper housing forms an upper compartment for providing ready access to the components of the water system and the electric circuit through a top access opening. The operative components of the water system and the electric circuit are mounted for the ease of removal for service and replacement of parts.

Abstract: The present invention of an opaque dirt shield for covering transparent portions of a sight container includes an obverse cover, a reverse cover, a fastener and viewing flaps. The covers are generally conformal with the shape of the container. The covers may be made integral into a planar mode to be shaped about the container by a user. The fastener secures one portion of a cover or associated structure to a related portion to position and secure the components of the shield with respect to each other and secure the shield onto the container. The viewing flaps allow the visual inspection of the interior of the container. Similarly, illumination flaps allow the illumination of the interior of the container.