Abstract: A goaltender's leg pad toe anchor includes a houve which is secured to the lower portion of a leg pad. Two elongate bands extend downwardly from the houve, with the bands being drawn through and crossed within a toe opening of a skate blade carrier. Each of the bands is releasably attached to a transverse strap which extends beneath the skate from one side of the leg pad to the other. The ends of the bands may be looped, with the transverse strap being threaded through the loops.

Abstract: An energy absorbing, articulated, protective pad with improved articulation for protection of areas of articulation, such as joints of a human body. A pad of energy absorbing material has score lines along a first axis and a second axis. The score lines are cut into said pad to provide articulation of the pad. The pad also has cuts along the second axis at the periphery of the pad that provide flexibility to the pad.

Abstract: A sleeve-glove attachment assembly for hazardous environments such as surgical or laboratory environments, as well as applications where there is a desire to maintain a fluid impervious seal such as water or snow activities, is provided to form a fluid impervious seal between a fabric sleeve, woven or nonwoven, and an elastic glove. The sleeve glove attachment assembly comprising an elastic flap, cylindrical in shape, having a distal end and proximal end is attached near the center of the flap to the sleeve at mid-forearm with the distal end extending over the sleeve cuff and proximal end extending over the sleeve toward the elbow. At least one of the proximal and distal ends comprising a raised geometric bead and frictional ridges on the outer surface eliminates bunching and channel formation between the glove cuff and sleeve. The glove cuff is placed over the geometric bead and frictional ridges of the distal end of the flap.

Abstract: Apparatus, particularly adapted to covering and protecting the ankles of off-road bicycle riders from injury, has an ankle-length sock made of flexible woven fabric covering each of the rider's feet and a pair of bicycling shoes having low-cut uppers. A thin guard of a hard, flexible material passing around the rider's ankle is retained at the outside of each sock, extending from the top of the sock to a line proximate the top of the shoe upper so as to protect the inside and outside of the ankle joint.

Abstract: A shoulder pad includes a flexible base member having a top surface, a bottom surface, a central portion, opposite first and second free ends and a longitudinal axis. The flexible base member includes a plurality of longitudinally space, oval-shaped pad sections that increase in thickness from the central portion of the shoulder pad toward at lease one of the first and second free ends. The longitudinally spaced pad sections may also increase in durometer hardness from a centermost pad section to the longitudinally outermost pad sections. For attachment of the pad to a shoulder strap, the pad includes at lease one clip from making snap-on engagement with the pad. For added durability, the shoulder pad further preferably includes a thin spine, which is more rigid than the flexible base member and is attached to the top surface of the flexible base member.

Abstract: A pair of swimming goggles comprises a first and a second single-eye modules, each of which includes a lens frame that has lens units mounted thereon, a module nose bridge which is mounted on the side of the lens frame, a module strap which is mounted on opposition the module nose bridge, wherein the module nose bridge include at least a first connection set which is disposed on the lens frame, the first connection set have a first position portion and a nose body which can be connected to the first position portion. The module strap including a matching mean which is mounted on the lens frame, a join mean which can be engaged to the matching mean, a strap element which is assembled on the join mean, and a fastener having a first and a second jacket set which are mounted on the free end of the strap element, such that the user can chose the dual single-eye module which are respectively conformity with own each eye's diopter and can be easily assembled into a pair of swimming goggles when in use.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a catcher's chest protector which includes, among other things, a harness with one strap holding the neck of the chest protector firmly against the neck of the player and a second strap to hold the chest portion of the protector against the chest. The harness is designed to be quickly adjustable and secure for a variety of body sizes and shapes so that the protector can rapidly be switched between different players while still fitting them all well. The catcher's chest protector may also forego any metal or leather components so as to be washable in a fabric care machine for simplified care.

Abstract: A retractable and disposable urinal which can be retracted, can be directed and can be joined with a plastic conveyer to the male or female organ and comprises: a plastic retractable tube formed by a plurality of convolutions, having at its bottom a closed convolution and at its top a hollowed neck closed at its bottom side where an absorber polymer is put, the conveyer entering the neck opens the protection film and the membrane of the neck allowing the polymer to fall down the tube, this polymer when is in contact with the urine absorbs it and transforms it in gel.

Abstract: The improved automatic device for washing a toilet seat ring comprises a lid divided into two parts, a lower part, which is suitable to be fixed to the upper rim of the toilet bowl and on the inner surface of which the toilet seat ring rests, and an upper part, to be superimposed hermetically on said lower part, which can be lifted angularly with respect to the lower part, wherein the upper part comprises a box-like structure having on the bottom of exit holes for a fluid for washing the toilet seat ring and exit openings for air for drying the washed ring, the upper part having ducts for feeding the washing fluid to the holes and channels for feeding air to the openings.

Abstract: A dome of convex shape, constructed of a plurality of tubular bent members connected at a common point at the top and to a tension ring at the base forming an interior cavity of adequate size to cover an adult floating on a raft or standing in a pool. The exterior is covered in a fabric or mesh weave of sufficiently small opening to prevent the entry of mosquitoes and insects, also providing shade from the sun. This exterior covering also offers privacy from observers located at distance. The fabric is held taut by Velcro, zippers or snaps for easy assembly and disassembly. Floats consisting of cylindrical lightweight rigid foam or inflatable PVC material are installed to support the structure in water. The floats can be removed if benefits from the floating dome are desired on areas other than water.

Abstract: A bath lift including an inflatable part 10 locatable in a bath to raise or lower a person sitting thereon. The part 10 comprises a seat section 12 and a support section 20. The sections 12, 20 are connected in series such that with a person sitting on the part 10 the section 12 will deflate first, and when the part 10 is being inflated with a person sitting thereon the section 20 will inflate prior to the section 12.

Abstract: A long rod that has a hanging hook at one end is attached to the leading vertical edge of the inner shower curtain or shower curtain liner and is hung on a hook located at shower curtain rod height inside the shower or bath/shower enclosure. Snugging the bottom of the device to a horizontally aligned hook near the bottom of it's length completes the splash water seal.

Abstract: The subject matter of the invention is first a waste (10) for a washbasin (3) of a washstand (1) with a slot-shaped runout (6) with a channel-shaped trough (20) with a connecting branch (21) for connection to a drain pipe and second a washstand (1), wherein the basin (3) is formed by a rear wall (5) oriented approximately normal to the upper side of the washstand (1) and by a bottom (4) that extends angularly from the upper side and is oriented toward the rear wall (5), a slot-shaped runout (6) being formed between rear wall (5) and bottom (4), and wherein the slot-shaped runout (6) is provided with a channel-shaped trough (20) according to one or several features of the claims 1 through 9.

Abstract: This lavatory-toilet combination allows the user to immediately recycle hand washing and other lavatory sink water to flush the toilet or to drain in the traditional manner. Besides choosing flush or drain, the user chooses the amount of water over 1.6 gallons and the temperature of that water. This combination eliminates the toilet tank with it's many parts needing repair and replacement. 1 REFERENCES 1,935,779 Nov. 21, 1933 Kemach 2,860,348 Nov. 18, 1958 McClenahan 3,588,922 Jun. 29, 1971 Carfora 3,995,327 Dec. 7, 1976 Hendrick 5,228,152 Jul. 20, 1993 Fraley 5,522,096 Jun.

Abstract: Furniture frames, such as futon frames, are movable between bed configurations and sofa configurations. Furniture frame embodiments according to the invention provide a more level, continuous and secure sleep surface than currently available. The central gap present in many futon frames, for example, is eliminated, as is a fourth cross rail. Manufacturing costs are reduced, and reliability is improved. Additionally, furniture frame embodiments include at least one topple member that engages the top of a depending backrest side or side and does not put pressure on a hole accommodating a pivot pin connecting the backrest panel and seat panel. Mechanical advantage is improved. Further, a working end of the depending backrest side can be produced with a single cut, eliminating the need for multiple cuts and/or attachment of separate pieces, thereby lowering manufacturing costs. Corresponding methods provide similar advantages.

Abstract: A bassinet includes a fabric boundary having a receiving cavity to provide at least an opening edge, a supporting board fittedly disposed in the receiving cavity, a supporting frame including an edge supporting rim mounted on the opening edge of the fabric boundary, two folding arms pivotally connected to the edge supporting rim and arranged to move between a fully opened position and a closed position, and a locking means provided on the supporting board for locking up the two folding arms in the fully opened position, and a mounting arrangement for detachably mounting on the play pen and cot respectively. In which, in the fully opened position, the two folding arms are move to perpendicularly bias against the supporting board, and in the closed position, the two folding arms are pivotally rotated towards to the top opening so as to reduce a depth of the receiving cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus for regulating a temperature of a body support structure including at least one bladder. A temperature modulator is coupled to the at least one bladder for varying the temperature of fluid within the bladder.

Abstract: A bifurcated wrap-around covering which covers an already seated person, infant to adult. Significant is the circular cut of the rear leg compartment panels 56 and 56A that encircle the buttocks 84 allowing the covering to be placed without the necessity of lifting a person, nor lifting a person's legs.

Abstract: This invention preferably includes an accessory clip for attaching medical equipment and the alike to a litter stand for use on a litter. The accessory clip preferably includes at least one attachment for a piece of medical equipment such as medical monitors, ventilators, infusion pumps, and IV bags.

Abstract: A filling material comprised of a flexible and highly resilient polyurethane foam, combined with a soft and plush down fill. The filling material is inserted or blown into a casing to form a pillow or other cushioned articles. The filling elements offer adequate support and softness with a “cradling effect” of a person's head. The filling elements retain its shape and bounce back to its original state.

Abstract: The Airwedge inflates and deflates for ease in use, convenience and storage.

Abstract: A therapeutic between the legs support pillow having a generally rectangular foot print when not in use, having a first surface and a second channeled surface opposite the first surface, the second channel surface having a plurality of intersecting channels cooperative with the thighs, knees and calves of an individual when the therapeutic between the legs pillow is folded upon its first surface, the therapeutic between the legs support pillow having a biasing means cooperable with the weight of the thighs, knees and calves so as to maintain proper spinal alignment.

Abstract: A magnetic tool structure includes a body having a square end formed with a receiving seat, and a magnetic device mounted on the receiving seat of the body. The magnetic device includes an outer retractable rod secured and hidden in the receiving seat, an inner retractable rod retractably mounted on the outer retractable rod, and a magnetic body secured on the inner retractable rod to move therewith. In use, the magnetic body can be extended outward from the receiving seat of the body and fully inserted into the receiving seat of the body, so that when the magnetic device is retracted and shortened to a minimum length thereof, the magnetic device is fully hidden in the receiving seat of the body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to processes and systems for treating leather articles, especially lipophilic fluid systems for treating leather articles. More particularly, the present invention relates to processes and systems employing treating agents that treat, for example clean, leather articles without causing damage to the appearance of the leather articles as compared to the leather articles' original appearance prior to treatment.

Abstract: A solution for forming a graft substrate containing a graft initiator, a catalyst for activating the graft initiator, a polymerizable silicon softener, and at least one additional prepolymer, each of the softener and the prepolymer which includes a functional group for reaction with an activated site on the substrate for grafting thereto and water. The treated fiber exhibits excellent crockfastness, color fastness, and abrasion resistance, strength, and has a soft hand.

Abstract: A hydrolizable polymer-containing textile article and method for producing the same is provided that has been chemically modified by treating the article with certain branched chain amines to reduce the strength of the fibers contained therein, thus rendering the article less prone to the formation of objectionable pill balls, thereby increasing wearer comfort and retaining the desired appearance of the article, and thereby extending the useful life of the article.

Abstract: The present invention concerns treated fibrous porous material having a defined nanostructure comprising reactive sites thereon, wherein said fibrous porous material is treated with a low viscosity organic solution comprising organic solvent, isocyanate component unsaturated resin and optionally additional additives. The treated fibrous porous material is further mixed with a resin to form a composite. The composite may be formed by various methods of mixing and molding. The invention is further directed to various composites made therefrom. The fibrous porous material is selected from the group comprising cellulose, lignin, synthetic ceramics, porous metal nanopowders, kaolin, bio fibers and porous powders of biological origin or their mixtures. The resin may be any polymer virgin or scrap obtained from industrial or domestic waste, and is selected from thermoplastic or thermosetting polymers.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions for desizing, scouring and bleaching of cellulosic materials, which are carried out by contacting the cellulosic materials simultaneously or sequentially in a single-bath process with an enzyme system and a bleaching system comprising hydrogen peroxide or at least one peroxy compound which generates hydrogen peroxide when dissolved in water, or combinations thereof, and at least one bleach activator.

Abstract: An anti-pilling processing method of protein-base fiber materials, which comprises contacting said protein-base fiber materials with a treating liquid at a pH ranging from 2.0 to 8.0, said treating liquid comprising a crosslinking agent selected from the groups consisting of a compound having both of a glycidyl group and a vinyl group, a compound having at least two glycidyl groups, a compound having at least two vinyl groups, and a glycidyl methacrylate compound as a crosslinking agent, wherein said protein-base fiber is crosslinked by said compound.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for treating a lipophilic fluid contained in an emulsion of water and lipophilic fluid. The process includes the steps of pretreating the emulsion, removing lipophilic fluid from the emulsion, and purifying the lipophilic fluid to remove at least a portion of the impurities collected during the use of the emulsion. Method options are provided for each of the aforementioned steps.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for detecting mass transfer in a rotating device or rotating system, such as a washing machine or dishwasher. Mass may be transferred from the stationary member to the rotating member. The transfer of the mass from the stationary member to the rotating member may be detected utilizing a sensor. A controller linked to the rotating system thereafter may receive a signal that the transfer of mass has been detected, in response to detecting the transfer of mass, thereby permitting the controller to compensate future mass placements in the rotating system according to measured latencies. The mass may comprise a fluid. The fluid itself may be conductive. A gap is generally configured between the stationary member and the rotating member. At least one wire connected to the sensor may be inserted into a stream of such fluid that is created when injectors are activated.

Abstract: The invention herein provides for an improved dye composition for encapsulation in casing structures adapted for projectile motion and rupture upon contact with a target surface, such as paint balls. The dye composition adapted for use in an impact-rupturable capsule of the invention comprises a water-soluble dye and a lipophilic carrier having an oil and an emulsifier, said emulsifier comprising ethoxylated mono- and diglycerides. The invention further provides for an impact-rupturable capsule containing the dye composition. Advantages of the dye composition of the invention include improved consistency and reduced separation of ingredients; greater viscosity and thickness; greater “smearability” and splattering of dye on target surface upon impact and rupture of the casing; and greater water solubility and improved machine washability.

Abstract: A shoe tree for backless and other shoes, includes an elongated insert member for longitudinal installation into a the toe portion of a backless shoe. This insert member stretches at least the toe, wherein the toe insert has a mechanically or air expandable form-fitting toe block which is receivable within the closed or open toe portion of the backless shoe. The toe block fits fitting into and expansively stresses the toe portion of the backless shoe. To compensate for the fact that the backless shoe has no heel for the shoe tree to push against, this insert member may have an optional user controllable holder to hold the toe insert member in place and to stabilize the shape of the shoe. The shoe tree may be adapted for use with shoes with heels also.

Abstract: A load bearing support structure in the form of a traffic-bearing highway bridge including at least one modular structural section. The at least one modular structural section includes at least one beam, the beam comprising a pair of lateral flanges and a medial web between and extending below the flanges. The beam preferably has a flat floor. A load bearing deck is positioned above and supported by the flanges of the at least one beam. The beam and load bearing deck are preferably formed of a polymer matrix composite material. The beam is positioned on and supported by one of a plurality of support members. The beam has a contoured shape configured to be matably supported by a support member having a reciprocally configured contoured shaped. Alternatively, a flat or L-shape support member can be utilized. Further alternatively, the load bearing deck comprising at least one sandwich panel is suitable for applications such as barge decks, hatchcovers, and other load bearing wall applications.

Abstract: A oral care brush device is provided for use as either a toothbrush or a gum brush. An elongated handle is connected to a brush head. The brush head has a top and bottom face with a plurality of bristles extending orthogonally from both the top and bottom faces. The brush head may also include an elongate member that permits releasable attachment to the handle. A gap is defined between the brush head and the elongate handle to provide air cushioning for comfort when used.

Abstract: A wipe-up-the-mess wand that enables one to wipe-off or wipe-up all “yucky” materials including paint, oil, grease, chemicals, hazardous materials, etc. and accomplished with hands-off action.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wiping device, a squeezing out device and a container device enabling a textile wiping element located on a wiping panel (4) of the wiping device to be squeezed out simply and reliably. The wiping panel is provided with edge fixing sections (8) which can be held from behind by a counter bearing device (33) of the squeezing out device in order to prevent the wiping panel (4) from being moved out of the squeezing out device unintentionally when the textile wiping element (5) is squeezed out on a bearing surface, or which have an insertion ramp which facilitates the optionally jamming insertion between the bearing surface and a counter bearing surface that is set apart from said bearing surface.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a polyvinyl acetate (PVA) sponge. More specifically, a PVA sponge according to the present invention has certain improved physical characteristics, such as uniform pore size, a microscopically rough surface, and/or a neutral surface charge. Certain characteristics may be achieved by a variety of methods in which pore-forming chemicals are dissolved into a PVA solution, so that no solid residues remain in the pores of a PVA sponge after production. Neutral surface charge of a PVA sponge may be achieved by adding a charge modifying agent during the sponge making process.

Abstract: In a wiper device for vehicles, a wiper blade is rotatably held on a retainer of a wiper arm through a holding axis. A slider is integrated with an end of a primary lever of the wiper blade. The slider is arranged at a position being shifted toward the wiper arm from the holding axis. The retainer has a longitudinal base wall and a first and second side walls extending from opposite side edges of the base wall, to have substantially a U-shaped cross-section opening toward a wiping surface. A slider base, a posture maintaining portion and the end of the primary lever are provided to be retractable in a U-shaped cavity of the retainer. While the wiper blade is lifted with the slider, the wiper blade is held at a predetermined posture with respect to the retainer.

Abstract: A cleaning mat provided with a single rubber layer including many extra-fine short fibers. The extra-fine short fibers are undirectionally protruding from a surface of the rubber layer to form brush-like protruding portions. The cleaning mat is made by polishing the surface of the rubber layer composed of a mixture of raw rubber material and the extra-fine short fibers.

Abstract: Wafer holder cleaning devices, systems and methods that are capable of removing contaminants from a wafer holder. An embodiment includes a particle removal surface on the cleaning device. An embodiment of the surface is a brush. An embodiment includes moving the surface into contact with the wafer holder. An embodiment includes moving the surface into a close, non-contacting relationship to the wafer holder. An embodiment includes a vacuum removing the particles from the wafer holder. In an embodiment, the wafer holder is a spindle chuck. In an embodiment, the spindle chuck is in a fabrication station. In an embodiment, one of the cleaning device and wafer holder rotates.

Abstract: A web cleaner (20) for removing debris that clings to the surface of a substrate during a printing process. The cleaner (20) uses a number of idlers (26) which hold a web (22) taut therebetween, with the web driven at high speeds by a printing press (24). The cleaner (20) utilizes a pair of counter rotating, textured rollers (28) that are positioned between the idlers, with one roller positioned on each side of the web in close proximity therewith and each roller rotates in an opposite direction to that of the webs flowpath. A skiving bar (36) is positioned at an angle between 90 degrees to 180 degrees to the web bordering each roller in adjacent relationship for directing the air into a plenum (44) that covers each roller and skiving bar. The plenum (44) is used to collect the debris detached from the web surface by air currents formed by rotation of the rollers creating an air film on the web surface. The same air currents also produce a positive air pressure within the plenum.

Abstract: A dual mode carpet cleaning machine capable of being used in both a traditional deep cleaning mode and a fast drying surface cleaning mode. A selection mechanism provides selective communication with different sets of application jets. One set of application jets delivers a first cleaning solution that penetrates deeply into a carpet. After agitation with a scrub brush the device removes the cleaning solution and unwanted soil through a vacuum nozzle. The other set of jets delivers a lower flow rate of a second cleaning solution that does not penetrate deeply into the carpet. In addition, a novel cleaning solution is disclosed for use with the machine in differing concentrations, depending on the desired application.

Abstract: An improved animal waste vacuum having a main body mounted upon wheels and a handle to maneuver vacuum's nozzle opening and intake tube over animal excrement. A vacuum motor creates suction and draws animal excrement through a nozzle opening and up an intake tube into a waste bag. A waste bag, in which the animal excrement is collected, prevents animal waste from contacting any component of the vacuum. A plastic tubing dispenser ring fits over the intake tube and contains thin plastic tubing that acts as a liner in the intake tube during use. The liner prevents animal excrement from contacting the interior of the intake tube during use. Alternative liners, such as common plastic grocery bags, may also be used. The waste bag and intake tube are accessible through a removable lid. The intake tube is removable and easy to clean. The animal waste vacuum is used from a standing position.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is provided having a tank with an inlet for receiving liquid material and defining an interior. An air impeller housing has an opening in air flow communication with the tank interior, and an air impeller is disposed inside the air impeller housing. A motor is disposed inside a motor housing and operatively coupled to the air impeller, and a switch is provided having a first position in which power is provided to the motor and a second position in which power to the motor is interrupted. A float is disposed in the tank and a float rod extends between the tank and the switch, the float rod being capable of moving the switch from the first position to the second position. A seal is positioned intermediately along the float rod to create a water-tight barrier between opposite ends of the float rod.

Abstract: A hinge apparatus disposes a panel to be opened and closed with respect to a body of an appliance. The hinge apparatus includes a fixing bracket fixed on the body, a supporting bracket fixed on the panel and a hinge shaft fixed on the fixing bracket to rotatably support the supporting bracket. The hinge apparatus also includes an automatic pivot unit to cause the panel to be opened with respect to the body by a predetermined free rotation angle when a locking state between the panel and the body is released. Further, the hinge apparatus includes a manual pivot unit to provide a frictional force between the supporting bracket and the hinge shaft. The frictional force restricts the supporting bracket from being automatically rotated by the automatic pivot unit and also fixes the panel, which is opened further from the predetermined free rotation angle, in a fixed position.

Abstract: A hinge comprising a first hinge attachment member; a second hinge attachment member, the first and second hinge attachment members being movable relative to each other; and a coupling member for coupling the first and second hinge attachment members and for supplying damping when the first and second attachment members are displaced relative to each other. The damping is comprised of surface effect damping and such damping may be direction dependent or dependent on the rate of displacement or acceleration of one of the members. The hinge includes means for adjusting the magnitude of the damping supplied.

Abstract: A hinge assembly for rotatably coupling a first member to a second member. A cylindrical pintle is secured to the second member. A friction element secured to the first member includes first and second cylindrical walls that wrap at least substantially circumferentially around the pintle in opposing first and second directions, respectively, providing equal resistance to relative rotation therebetween in both directions. A protuberance extends radially from the pintle, into a corresponding slot in at least one of the cylindrical walls, and engages an end of the slot when the first member and second member achieve a first predefined angular relationship, the friction element storing energy from relative movement between the friction element and pintle when the protuberance is engaged at the slot end.

Abstract: A reduced tolerance window support bracket assembly is disclosed. The bracket includes a hinge with a vent bar having apertures to accept fasteners for engaging the hinge to a window sash. The apertures and the fasteners are configured to provide that the play between the window sash and a frame is optimized, thus avoiding the extremes of possible leakage and excessive pressure on a weather-strip.

Abstract: A reduced tolerance heavy duty window support bracket assembly is disclosed. The bracket includes a hinge with a vent bar having apertures to accept fasteners for engaging the hinge to a window sash. The apertures and the fasteners are configured to provide that the play between the window sash and a frame is optimized, thus avoiding the extremes of possible leakage and excessive pressure on a weather-strip.