Abstract: A glove having a heat insulating barrier is disclosed. The heat insulating barrier is removably inserted into a zippered pocket or a weblike pouch, the pocket or pouch being positioned proximate the back of a user's hand. the heat insulating barrier acts to selectively reduce heat conduction from the back side of the hand, thereby allowing the user's hand or hands to remain warm in cold environments. The ability to stack a varying number of heat insulating layers in the pouch or pocket further allows the user to selectively control the warmth of the hand as the ambient temperature fluctuates during use. The zippered pocket or weblike pouch can have first and second opening to permit increased cooling through the back portion of the glove.

Abstract: A side panel for a fabric care appliance is described. The side panel includes an embossed pattern for increasing a first natural frequency (or first harmonic) of the side panel. Preferably, the first natural frequency is substantially higher than any ordinary operating frequency or driving frequency of the appliance. For example, in a washing machine, the first natural frequency of the side panel is preferably at least 1.6 times greater than the maximum rotational frequency of a drum or tumbler of the machine.

Abstract: A laundry appliance having a cabinet enclosing a laundry treating mechanism, the cabinet having an openable door in a vertical front face thereof, is provided with a shelf recessed in the cabinet and arranged to be extendable to a horizontal position in an embodiment a predetermined distance below the door sufficient to allow a laundry basket to be placed on the shelf when extended and to allow the door to be opened and closed with the basket on the extended shelf and in an embodiment to provide a step for a user.

Abstract: A Bahama or Colonial-type shutter assembly for external openings of a structure, where the shutter assembly is resistant to damage by flying debris from high wind storms and hurricanes. The shutter assembly comprises a generally rectangular frame fabricated of a light-weight metal, such as aluminum, having a pair of side members, and top and bottom members. Extending between and into the side members are a plurality of angled slats, where the ends of the angled slats are anchored within the side members by a pair of rod members passing through apertures in proximity to the slat ends. A locking mechanism may be provided to secure a pair of shutter assemblies during the periods of high winds and hurricanes.

Abstract: An insulated ski glove having an outer shell formed to surround the hand is disclosed. A portion of the outer shell is fabricated from a material which is permeable to water vapor and impermeable to liquid water. The glove is lined with a material having low thermal conductivity, a portion of which is permeable to moisture.