Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to a protective device that can be used to protect the clothing of a user and the interior of a vehicle due to inadvertent food and beverage spills. The device includes an upper section that covers at least a portion of the torso of a user, while leaving the user's hands and arms free for controlling a vehicle. The device further includes a lower section for covering at least a portion of the user's lap and thighs. Advantageously, the device includes a fold that extends from the upper section. The fold has the dual purpose of protecting the vehicle seat belt when in use and adhering the device in place. The device includes a top absorbent layer for containing liquid and food spills, and a lower impermeable layer for prevent liquid spills from contacting the user's clothing or the vehicle.

Abstract: A carpet securement strip comprising a substrate (14) having gripper pins (13) and a projection component (12) of a touch and close system for securing a fibrous backing (18) of a carpet (26) to the substrate (14) at a height suitable for underlay (24) to lie between the carpet (26) and the floor (22) and a method of using such a strip for fitting a carpet (26) to a floor (22).

Abstract: A sensing element includes a body of pressure sensitive electrically conductive material formed by a non-conductive matrix of flexible elastomeric material, the matrix containing electrically conductive particles. The body is formed with spaced connection regions, at least one of which is a hole into which an electrical connector may be inserted as a push fit. The connector is oversize in a direction transversely of the hole to ensure that the connector is held in place in the body and makes good electrical connection therewith.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a sensing element, comprising bringing a first body in the form of an oil-free cross-linked matrix of flexible elastomeric material, the matrix containing electrically conductive particles, into contact with a second body of flexible elastomeric material that is electrically insulating and that contains an oil compatible with the elastomeric material of the first body, and allowing oil to migrate from the second to the first body so as to cause swelling of the first body, the migration continuing until a state of oil phase equalisation between the two bodies is reached.

Abstract: A golf ball center composition comprising by weight 100 parts of a resilient elastomer, not more than 25 parts of a monomer capable of grafting, cross-linking or chain-extending the elastomer and not less then 70 parts of an inert filler, the composition being cured and having a Shore C hardness of not less than 60.degree.; a golf ball comprising said center, an elastic thread wound around the center to form a core, and a cover molded onto the core; and a method of making such golf ball.