Abstract: A lacing system having a lace loop that forms multiple segments that extend from a strap and criss-cross each other in an adjustable opening. The lace is threaded through eyelets of a sneaker, in such a manner that, a single arcuate pull on the strap(s), causes the multiple lace segments to move through the eyelets of the sneaker opening in unison, so that the entire length of the opening contracts simultaneously. This pull also lifts the entire arch area, thus providing better support. The lace segments converge at the strap(s), near the ankle, thus providing better support at the ankle. Additional lace segments could be disposed above the arch to provide better arch support. A strap or fastening member may attach to the sneaker by either a ratchet buckle, clasp, hook, snap, clamp, or locking tape such as hook-and-loop. The sneaker opens to its' maximum width, automatically when the user steps out.

Abstract: A lacing system having a lace loop that forms multiple segments that extend from a strap and criss-cross each other in an adjustable opening. The lace is threaded through eyelets of a sneaker, in such a manner that, a single arcuate pull on the strap(s), causes the multiple lace segments to move through the eyelets of the sneaker opening in unison, so that the entire length of the opening contracts simultaneously. This pull also lifts the entire arch area, thus providing better support. The lace segments converge at the strap(s), near the ankle, thus providing better support at the ankle. Additional lace segments could be disposed above the arch to provide better arch support. A strap or fastening member may attach to the sneaker by either a ratchet buckle, clasp, hook, snap, clamp, or locking tape such as hook-and-loop. The sneaker opens to its' maximum width, automatically when the user steps out.

Abstract: A lacing system includes a lace loop attached to a strap. The lace loop is threaded through eyelets of a sneaker, in such a manner that, a single pull on the strap, causes the lace segments to move through the eyelets of the sneaker opening, so that the entire length of the opening contracts simultaneously. This pull lifts the entire arch area, thus providing better support. The lace segments converge at the strap, near the ankle, thus providing better support at the ankle. Additional lace segments could be disposed above the arch to provide better arch support. A strap or fastening member may attach to the sneaker by either a ratchet buckle, clasp, hook, snap, or a hook-and-loop fastener. The sneaker opens to it's maximum width, automatically when the user steps out.

Abstract: A closure is made up of a strap (110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610) and a holder (130, 230, 330, 430, 530, 630) that engages with the strap while it tightens and loosens, and a retainer (170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670), which retains the holder in one of the two positions relative to the strap. For items opening lengthwise (e.g., sneakers), the closure includes a lace (795). To unlock the closure, the user moves the holder to the unlocked position. To lock the closure, the user pulls the strap, which automatically moves the closure back to the locked position. The strap has two sets of teeth (112, 114, 212, 214, 312, 314, 412, 414, 512, 514, 612, 614). One set (112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612), the switching teeth, automatically moves the holder from the unlocked position to the locked position.

Abstract: An extremely versatile tie which can; 1) be releasable or non-releasable; 2) tie one bundle or two bundles;, 3) be threaded from either side; 4) have a circular or oval shape; 5) have controlled release; and 6) attach to other ties so two or more ties can be opened in unison. This tie can be made out of one or more pieces. Each releasable tie has a strap, a holder, and a retainer, which can be in a locked or unlocked position. In the locked position, the tie can tighten in discrete increments, but cannot loosen. In the unlocked position, the tie can loosen or release in discrete increments (i.e., controlled release), but cannot tighten. The retainer and holder engage to keep the tie in either a locked or unlocked position. To ensure that the retainer and holder are not accidentally dislodged from the locked or unlocked position, a deliberate movement (perpendicular to the strap) is required by the user.

Abstract: An indicating closure having compartments for different medications that are part of a medication regimen. The compartments are created using removable dividers and/or covers which cooperate with an indicating closure to help the user comply with her medication regimen (i.e., compliance). Thus, a user has access to the correct drug and/or dose when she opens the closure at the indicated time.

Abstract: A dynamic virtual hinge closure used for controlled, reliable, and measured dispensing of a variety of substances with extensive monitoring, child-resistance and senior-friendly features. A hook dynamically engages with a slot to create a virtual hinge each time the closure is opened. The hook dynamically disengages with the slot each time the closure is closed. Monitoring is accomplished by markers position on the outer surface of the container or lid. The closure may be opened in several ways, according to the users preference or ability. The monitoring may be for dispensing of food such as spices (i.e, pour, shake, spoon), for dispensing of drugs (1st, 2nd, 3rd dose). The internal structure insures that the lid shifts into a locked, child-resistant position when closed and also that the lid is opened exactly once at each marker position. The lid is made of only one piece and requires no assembly.

Abstract: A reusable and releasable tie according to the present invention has no moving parts, and has the ability to expand and contract in discrete increments while being tied. The tie consists of a strap and a holder. The strap has ratchet teeth on top and bottom. The holder has ratchet teeth on the upper and lower surface of its interior, which may be pawled to increase the gripping strength. To switch the tie from an expanding to a contracting position, and vice versa, the user slides or swivels the holder to a different position relative to the strap. To expand or contract the tie, the user may pull on the strap in the desired direction. If the holder is in the expanding position, the tie automatically expands when contents are added due to the increase in pressure on the inside of the strap. The ties can be configured as a one piece tie, as a tie with variable length strap and a double holder, or as two pieces (strap and holder). The tie may be spring loaded so that it returns to a fixed position when released.

Abstract: A dynamic virtual hinge closure used for controlled, reliable, and measured dispensing of a variety of substances with extensive monitoring, child-resistance and senior friendly features. A hook dynamically engages with a slot to create a virtual hinge each time the closure is opened. The hook dynamically disengages with the slot each time the closure is closed. Monitoring is accomplished by markers positioned on one part of the external cylindrical front surface of the container or lid. The monitoring may be for dispensing of food such as spices (e.g., pour, shake, spoon); or for dispensing of drugs (e.g., 1st, 2nd, 3rd dose) or simply to determine whether the closure is in a locked or unlocked position. The closure is easily moldable, simple to assemble,, sealed on the top and side, and configured to accept a moisture vapor seal and/or tamper indicating film.

Abstract: A one piece reusable and releasable tie having no moving parts, and having the ability to be readily adjusted (loosened/tightened) in discrete increments while tied. Nine embodiments are disclosed having different shaped projections or patterns on the strap and complimentary projections in the holder. Each of the embodiments are symmetrically adjustable (tightened or loosened) using similar movements. To adjust the tie, the user pulls on the strap in the desired direction, and either moves (turns) the holder or pulls (toggles) the strap, causing the tie to tighten or loosen in discrete increments. To lock, the holder and strap are returned to a fixed position. The tie can be configured as a one piece tie, as a tie with variable length strap and a double holder, or as two pieces (strap and holder).

Abstract: A dynamic virtual hinge closure used for controlled, reliable, and measured dispensing of a variety of substances with extensive compliance and child-resistance features. A hook integral with the container engages with a slot in a ledge of the lid to create a virtual hinge each time the closure is opened. The hook dynamically disengages with the slot each time the closure is closed. The lid can be hinged to open perpendicularly, horizontally, or vertically. The lid which opens vertically may include a pump device for dispensing liquids or sprays. A twisted elastic band may alternatively be used to function as the virtual hinge. Child-resistance can be accomplished with a pressure member which may be inserted into the lid. Monitoring is accomplished by markers positioned on one part of the external cylindrical front surface of the lid. A reversible lid, composed of only one part, provides for either side featuring any combination of the four possibilities, (i.e.

Abstract: A Direct Access Modular Binder containing one or more posts. Each post is comprised of two or more interconnected independent locking modules. These locking modules can easily be inserted or removed to change the length of the post to efficiently accommodate varying amounts of paper. The modules additionally function to permit direct access for insertion/removal of pages or modules anywhere along the post. The modules in the post may contain a telescoping feature. The module(s) containing a telescoping feature are optimally positioned at the end(s) of the post and fixedly attached to the post holding strips. The strips, which hold the posts' ends, may be hingedly attached to the front and back covers. The telescoping feature permits the binder to be automatically compacted (when not in use), for efficient storage, and temporarily expanded (when in use), to provide space for the user to insert/remove paper or modules. The modules which make up the post are easily locked and unlocked.