Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to an end cap for use on a self-standing structural frame, for example, a self-standing framed hammock. The hammock includes: two end bars that connect the x-shaped frames; and at least one panel of fabric suspended between the two end bars of the x-shape; wherein the panel of fabric is gathered and distributed along an end bar that is fixed to the end caps, and wherein the panel of fabric has foam padding to cover the end bar. Wherein the corner end caps have the ability to attach additional frame parts and/or accessories to the frame, and wherein the feet are extended to have two points of ground contact and extend the width of the base footprint of the frame.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to an end cap for use on a self-standing structural frame, for example, a self-standing framed hammock. The hammock includes: two end bars that connect the x-shaped frames; and at least one panel of fabric suspended between the two end bars of the x-shape; wherein the panel of fabric is gathered and distributed along an end bar that is fixed to the end caps, and wherein the panel of fabric has foam padding to cover the end bar. Wherein the corner end caps have the ability to attach additional frame parts and/or accessories to the frame, and wherein the feet are extended to have two points of ground contact and extend the width of the base footprint of the frame.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to self-standing structural frames including a fabric that is suspended on the frames. In one aspect, the present invention provides a self-standing framed hammock. The hammock includes: two end bars that connect the x-shaped frames; and at least one panel of fabric suspended between the two end bars of the x-shape; wherein the panel of fabric is gathered and distributed along an end bar that is fixed to the end caps, and wherein the panel of fabric has foam padding to cover the end bar. Wherein the corner end caps have the ability to attach additional frame parts and/or accessories to the frame, and wherein the feet are extended to have two points of ground contact and extend the width of the base footprint of the frame.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to self-standing structural frames including a fabric that is suspended on the frames. In one aspect, the present invention provides a self-standing framed hammock. The hammock includes: two end bars that connect the x-shaped frames; and at least one panel of fabric suspended between the two end bars of the x-shape; wherein the panel of fabric is gathered and distributed along an end bar that is fixed to the end caps, and wherein the panel of fabric has foam padding to cover the end bar. Wherein the corner end caps have the ability to attach additional frame parts and/or accessories to the frame, and wherein the feet are extended to have two points of ground contact and extend the width of the base footprint of the frame.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of breeding the black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens), wherein the black soldier flies are exposed, at least some of the time, to artificial lighting that is blue in colour.

Abstract: A system for releasably attaching an article of luggage such as a first carry bag, with or without a pair of upright support members, to a second carry bag system or wheeled luggage cart having at least a pair of upright stationary support members is disclosed in which a handle is resiliently attached to the first carry bag, and a device is provided for resiliently attaching the handle to the first carry bag in a manner to permit rotation of the handle between a first storage position between a pair of upright support members of the second carry bag system and a second interference position with the upright support members of the second carry bag system to thereby attach the first carry bag to the upright support members of the second carry bag system. The handle is preferably in the form of a zippered pouch having a planar plate attached thereto for engagement with the upright support members.

Abstract: An item of expandable luggage having a main body and an expandable member. A locking expansion means connects the main body to the expandable member, and includes at least one fixed plate and corresponding slidable plate slidably coupled together. Each fixed plate is fixedly mounted to the main body and includes a plurality of locking apertures. Each slidable plate is fixedly mounted to the expandable member and includes an expansion control mechanism for controlling displacement of the slidable plate with respect to its corresponding fixed plate. Each expansion control mechanism includes an actuator for engaging a first end of a rotatable crank. A locking element includes opposing first and second ends. The second end of the locking element engages the second end of the crank. The first end of the locking element slidably engages with one of the apertures of the first fixed plate in response to the actuator engaging the corresponding crank.

Abstract: An item of expandable luggage is provided with a muiltipositional locking expansion mechanism that includes a lock release actuator for unlocking the expansion plates that is located near or on a handle on the sliding plate situated towards the upper portion of the expandable body for easy accessibility, thereby permitting the user to adjust the inner volume of the luggage storage space when the compartment is fully packed. The extendable gusset is provided with one or more resilient members that retract the gusset into the interior of the luggage when it is not extended.

Abstract: A system for releasably attaching an article of luggage such as a second carry bag to a first carry bag system or to a wheeled luggage cart having at least a pair of upright stationary support members, is disclosed in which a handle is resiliently attached to the second carry bag, and a device is provided for resiliently attaching the handle to the second carry bag in a manner to permit rotation of the handle between a first storage position between the upright support members of the first carry bag system and a second interference position with the upright support members of the first carry bag system to thereby attach the second carry bag to the upright support members. The handle is preferably in the form of a zippered pouch having a planar plate attached thereto for engagement with the upright support members.

Abstract: A two-part connecting zipper pull includes a pull tab with receiving apertures therein and a connecting aperture, a loop member having ends to be fitted into the receiving apertures, and a securing pin for removably securing the ends of the loop member into the receiving apertures. The ends have apertures which align with the connecting aperture of the pull tab for allowing the securing pin to pass therethrough. The pull tab may have ornamental indicia thereon. The pull tab is particularly useful for the repair of existing zippered items such as luggage, handbags, clothing and the like, and can be marketed for repair purposes, or for cosmetic or appearance changes of the zipper.

Abstract: The present invention relates to luggage and baggage of all types. A concealable panel is incorporated into articles of baggage, including traditional luggage, suitcases, backpacks, school bags, and carry cases of all types to selectively form an outer accessory pocket. While the panel is preferably made of a stretchable mesh-net, it may also be made of a solid woven or knitted fabric materials, being elastic or inelastic. The panel is attached along one edge to the inside of a pocket on the carry case and it includes releasable devices such as resilient clasps to attach the opposed end to the outer wall of the carry case. When not in use, the panel may be folded upon itself and stored in the pocket, which includes a zipper closure device.