Abstract: A face guard (10) configured for protecting the face (F) of a baseball player (P) from a baseball (B) when the guard (10) is donned by the player (P) is disclosed. The face guard (10) broadly includes an open framework (12), compressible padding (14) connected to the framework (12), and a strap assembly (16) coupled to the framework (12). The framework (12) is configured to prevent a baseball (B) from contacting the face (F) of the player (P) when the guard (10) is donned by the player (P) without restricting the player's generally horizontal line of sight. The compressible padding (14) is configured to contact the player (P) and thereby space the framework (12) from the face (F) when the guard (10) is donned. The strap assembly (16) is configured to both position and retain the framework (12) on the face (F) of the player (P) when the guard (10) is donned.

Abstract: A method of applying a slip-resistant surface to a hand covering, for example a glove, in a mold, comprising the steps of: a. placing a swatch of a host material in the mold, b. applying a slip-resistant material to the mold, c. applying heat and pressure to the slip-resistant material thereby bonding the slip-resistant material to the host material to produce a composite material, and d. constructing a hand covering using at least the swatch of composite material. The method may also include the step of cutting the swatch of composite material into a desired shape either before or after molding. The hand covering is constructed using the swatch of composite material and a second material, which may be the host material, the composite material or any other material. The slip-resistant surfaces may comprise a texture, and the hand covering may comprise a plurality of slip-resistant surfaces.

Abstract: An article of clothing includes a body portion and a limb portion (e.g. a sleeve or pant leg) coupled to the body portion. The limb portion includes an expandable portion and a zipper assembly configured such that the zipper may be adjusted to extend and retract the limb portion between a standard length, and an elongated length. Closing the zipper assembly adjusts the limb portion to the standard length, opening the zipper adjusts the limb portion to the elongated length. The elongated length is particularly well suited for use during activities where the wearer's arms or legs may be outstretched, such as motorcycling.

Abstract: A hospital dressing gown construction 10 adapted to accommodate medical tubing, monitor wires, drains etc., wherein the construction includes a dressing gown member 20 having a generally T-shaped front 40 and rear 30 panels wherein the front panel 40 is provided with a deep V-neck opening 44 and an enlarged aperture 45 covered by a pocket flap 50 that is dimensioned to receive a heart monitor; and, wherein, the front 40 and rear 30 panel members are joined to one another by both permanent seams 39/49 and a plurality of pairs of cooperating hook and loop fasteners 36/46 37/47 etc., to both facilitate the donning of the construction by a patient and to provide unfettered access to the patient's torso by medical personnel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a glove, in particular for housework, the glove being made integrally of silicone material comprising a main pocket designed to receive four fingers of a user, and a secondary pocket designed to receive the thumb, said secondary pocket opening out into the main pocket, the glove including projecting ribs or reinforcement on at least one of its inside or outside surfaces.

Abstract: A hair washing shower cap and method of manufacture comprising a flexible exterior material laminated with an absorbent interior material and a non-rinse solution on said interior material. The device having an elastic periphery which is capable of elastically constricting about a user's head during use. The device further allows a user to massage the exterior material and easily transfer said massage through said interior material and onto a user's hair or scalp.

Abstract: A baseball-syle cap having a free-size capability for accommodating wearers having a range of head sizes without a separate sizing mechanism. The cap includes a crown main body which is expandable at least in a peripheral direction, and a headband made of a substantially non-stretchable fabric material. The headband is connected to the lower peripheral edge of the crown main body by a piece of stretchable fabric which is sewn to cover the headband. The lower peripheral edge of the headband is incised or grooved at regular intervals such that a stretching force thereon in the peripheral direction causes the headband to demonstrate teeth appearance.

Abstract: A head gear, especially adapted for hunting comprises a head covering portion that has a slot opening for vision. Ends of the slot opening and upper and lower edges thereof are sized to expose the ear canal so that hearing is not impaired when the head gear is worn, but the ears are covered for warmth. Flaps are provided to cover the front and back part of the neck, with each flap having a pocket for storage or use as a warmer holder.

Abstract: A method of welding seams for an outerwear garment, and the outerwear created therefrom. In one embodiment, a seam is created between outerwear material segments where dissimilar materials are joined together by applying at least one of a liquid bonding agent and a sheet adhesive between the materials and then applying heat and pressure to the seam, with or without the use of welding molds. In another embodiment, a seam is created between outerwear material segments with any seam configuration by applying both a liquid bonding agent and a sheet adhesive to the seam and then applying heat and pressure to the seam, with or without the use of welding molds.

Abstract: A pair of swimming/diving goggles comprises two lenses, a protective frame, and a main frame. Each lens is made of rigid transparent material and includes a peripheral edge. The protective frame is made of a material that is slightly flexible and pull-resistant. The protective frame includes two rings each having a receiving groove for engaging with the peripheral edge of an associated one of the lenses. The main frame is made of soft material and securely engaged with the protective frame by means of molding injection. The main frame includes two padding portions for intimate contact with a user's eye sockets. The protective frame prevents disengagement of the lenses from the protective frame and the main frame when a pulling force is applied for wearing the pair of swimming/diving goggles.

Abstract: A well styled, single layer shell jacket is resistant to inclement conditions, yet possesses the various characteristics of conventionally comfortable clothing, and permits the stitching of emblems thereon without impairing waterproof and windproof characteristics. Optionally, a liner is attachable to the interior of the jacket without disturbing the functionality of the shell jacket. Superposed on the waterproof and windproof fabric of each sleeve and forming a pocket thereon is a superposed upper patch, which appears to be a continuation of the yoke and the edges of which are joined to the sleeve by seams of stitching. In the patch is a zipper or other closure. This closure, when opened, permits entry into the pocket and sewing of an emblem or the like on the patch without affecting the waterproof and windproof construction of the remainder to the jacket.

Abstract: A gasket for sealing between a toilet base a closet flange has a ring of water impermeable elastomer having a ring upper surface spaced apart from a ring lower ledge by a separation distance S sufficiently large that the ring becomes compressed between the toilet and the closet flange. The ring is sized to cover a portion of the closet flange while fitting between mounting bolts used to secure the toilet to the closet flange. The gasket also has an annular extension attached to the ring and sized to fit into the closet flange. The ring may be rectangular or trapezoidal in cross section. A preferred embodiment has a quasi-trapezoidal cross section with a groove that provides the ring with increased compressibility.

Abstract: The present invention provides a western-style flush toilet in which the performance of a component which constitutes a function device is not damaged, and simultaneously, the cleaning performance of a western-style toilet body can be surely improved. The western-style flush toilet includes a western-style toilet body, and a part washing device which is mounted at the rear portion of the western-style toilet body. The part washing device is capable of moving upward in such a manner that at least the rear of a bowl face of the western-style toilet body is exposed. A conceal member for concealing the component or the space which maybe possibly exposed when the part washing device moves upward is mounted.

Abstract: Soap dispensing shower head and brush head with a flexible hose and attachment to fasten to a standard water supply and shower spigot. An enclosed chamber contains a water driven paddle wheel. The paddle wheel drives a first set of gears that cause a scrub brush to rotate. A second set of gears powered by the paddle wheel that cause a cam to rotate. The cam pushes against a soap delivery pump head causing the soap to be pushed through an aperture that runs through the center of the shower head assembly. A selector valve allows the user to choose between the shower function and the rotating brush, soap delivery function, an additional mechanical selector switch that allows the user to turn the soap delivery function on or off. A soap containing reservoir is connected to the enclosure and also acts as a handle portion.

Abstract: A foot spa and a method for controlling the foot spa is provided. The foot spa has a housing defining a reservoir for locating feet, a remote control unit for controlling a function of the foot spa by transmitting a control signal to the foot spa via wireless communication, and a receiver located in or on the housing for receiving the control signal.

Abstract: An infant crib wherein the crib portion is elevated in order to accommodate a wheelchair passing under the crib bed. The invention is preferably comprised of spaced support members supporting a horizontal base member at an elevated position high enough to accommodate the seat portion of a wheelchair beneath the base member. There is at least one side panel surrounding the base member slidable laterally between a closed and open position to enable a person seated in a wheelchair to have access to an infant placed on the base member when the slide panel is in the open position. A drawer member is positioned under the base member to allow a person seated in a wheelchair to have access to any necessary items.

Abstract: A co-sleeper convertibly adapted for use as a changing table, bassinet or play yard is described. The invention includes a first rigid enclosure that has four walls and a floor with the front wall capable of being positioned at an upper level equal to the remaining walls or at a second lower level. The first enclosure is capable of supporting a second enclosure within it that has four walls, a floor and can support a mattress. The co-sleeper is secured at one side of a parental bed with the co-sleeper mattress positioned a short distance below the level of the mattress of the parental bed. The front wall of the invention is placed in the second, lowered position for use as a co-sleeper or changing table and positioned at the upper level when the invention is used as a play yard or bassinet. The front wall has a fixed lower portion and a raisable upper portion.

Abstract: Bed equipped with different types of fittings having a horizontal support plane for supporting a mattress spring, a mattress, pillows and blankets and a person and including a first and a second pair of vertical legs (15, 16, 17, 18) arranged respectively near the bed headboard and the bed footboard, which extend upwardly and which are joined together by a first stiff structure (19) arranged on the lower part thereof forming the bed peripheral edges (20, 21) and the horizontal support plane. A second stiff structure (22), is arranged on the upper part of the vertical legs spaced vertically from the first stiff structure (19) in such a manner as to allow easy access to the bed. The second stiff structure (22) having peripheral edges (22, 23, 24, 25) adapted to support at least a television receiver (27, 32), a bar (28) for supporting gym equipment and a lamp (60).

Abstract: A patient support includes a base, and a support assembly coupled to the base. A patient support surface is coupled to the support assembly. A plurality of siderails are coupled to the support assembly. Each siderail includes a frame member and a movable member coupled to the frame member, wherein the movable member is movable to a position directly above the patient support surface.

Abstract: A protective apparatus for human backbones is disclosed. This apparatus has an inside body, which is made of a fabric, such as a cotton fabric or a taffeta, and defines an interior space filled with an appropriate filler. An all-cotton fabric covers the inside body to form an outer cover of the apparatus, with two ends of the all-cotton fabric being fastened together using a zip-fastener or a Velcro fastener, thus forming a seamed junction. The apparatus has a columnar shape with a circular cross-section, a triangular cross-section, a rectangular cross-section, a hexagonal cross-section, or an octagonal cross-section. This apparatus properly aligns the spinal vertebrae of a user while sleeping or taking a rest.

Abstract: An apparatus for preventing soiling of an infant positioner includes an infant positioner protector. The infant positioner protector includes an opening that receives the infant positioner therethrough and a pocket adapted to receive an infant positioner therein. The opening seals to maintain the infant positioner within the infant positioner protector. The infant positioner protector may be liquid repellent or treated to repel liquids. A liquid repellent liner may be inserted into the pocket of the infant positioner protector. The infant positioner protector with the infant positioner therein may be placed on any planar surface. Alternatively, the infant positioner protector may be attached to a mattress cover fitted over a mattress.

Abstract: Apparatus for use in performing intercourse includes a frame having an operative side, and a swing assembly. The swing assembly has at least two suspension joints. This swing assembly is attached to the frame through the two suspension joints to allow the assembly to swing arcuately. The two suspension joints are reciprocatable about different centers of gyration. The swing assembly has a platform allowing a first person to rest thereon and provide genital access toward the operative side. The swing assembly has clearance to allow a second person to stand adjacent the platform and gain access to said first person from the operative side as the swing assembly swings arcuately.

Abstract: A tool and method are provide for applying a crimping device to a wire or wires in a telecommunication junction box. The method enables a single tool to be utilized to remove a wire from a wire bundle in a telecommunication junction box, cut the wire, place the wire in a crimping device, and crimp the crimping device onto the wire to establish an electrical connection with the wire.

Abstract: The present invention is a method for treating a fibrous material to control odor associated with deposits of organic matter. The present invention involves the steps of providing a fibrous material; applying an effective amount of an odor treatment solution which includes a bacteria splore blend wherein the solution has a pH within the range of 1 to 12. The invention also contemplates simultaneously applying an odor control agent and an anti-soil treatment to carpet fibers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for providing improved whiteness to cellulosic fabric comprising the steps of:

Abstract: Methods and compositions to treat fabrics with lipophilic fluid and a hydrophobic chelant are provided by the present invention.

Abstract: An in-home method for treating a fabric article in need of treatment and a new to the world, in-home, self-contained, stand alone fabric article treating apparatus, such as a “cabinet”-type of apparatus, useful in such method is provided.

Abstract: A pre-treatment of a process for coloring, such as with at least one coloring agent chosen from direct dyes and oxidation dyes, human keratin fibers such as human hair, of a composition comprising at least one particular aminosilicone as well as the processes for coloring, with, for example, at least one coloring agent chosen from direct dyes and oxidation dyes, human keratin fibers such as hair, comprising a pre-treatment with a composition comprising at least one particular aminosilicone. The compound itself for pre-treatment.

Abstract: Dye preparations comprising, based in each case on the weight of the preparation, from 0.1 to 30% by weight of one or more dyes from the class of the mono- or polyazo dyes containing no acidic groups, from 0.1 to 20% by weight of a dispersant based on an arylsulfonic acid-formaldehyde condensate or from 0.1 to 20% by weight of a water-soluble dispersant based on alkoxylated phenols with or without water, and their use as inks in the inkjet process and for textile sublimation transfer printing.

Abstract: method for invisibly marking a liquid petroleum hydrocarbon. The method comprises adding to the liquid petroleum hydrocarbon at least one dye selected from the group consisting of 1,4,5,8-tetrasubstituted anthraquinones and anthraquinone dimers. The absorption maximum of the dye(s) is in the range from 710 nm to 850 nm.

Abstract: An abutment especially adapted for use with a bridge is provided which incorporates lateral containment elements which prevent undesirable lateral shifting or movement of the bridge during a seismic event. The lateral containment elements are constructed of varying materials, and form an integral part of the bridge abutment. The lateral containment elements are positioned laterally of the bridge sill and in abutting relationship with the lateral ends of the sill. The lateral containment elements may include mechanically stabilized earth, concrete blocks, concrete blocks with micropile tie downs, reinforced concrete blocks with shear keys which extend below ground, or steel piles or beams which are secured in the ground.

Abstract: A loading dock including a dock surface and a supporting structure positioned within a pit in the dock surface. The loading dock also includes a ramp, an inflatable assembly, and a support. The ramp is pivotally coupled to the supporting structure, and the inflatable assembly is positioned under the ramp and adapted to move the ramp between a lowered position and a raised position. The support is positioned under and supports the inflatable assembly. The support is supported by a pit floor and is unsecured to the pit floor.

Abstract: A vacuum unit used to vacuum lawn debris includes a vacuum unit body having at least first and second inlet openings and at least one flap that can be adjusted to selectively cover and open the second opening. The vacuum unit body includes a flap adjustment member that is located within the second opening and that includes a contact surface that contacts the flap. Preferably, the flap adjustment member has one end that is adapted to receive a vacuum hose. The flap adjustment member can be placed into a first position where it causes the flap to open the second opening and a second position where it permits the flap to cover the second opening. The vacuum hose has a handle that can be attached to the vacuum unit handle permitting the vacuum hose to remain permanently attached to the vacuum unit even when the vacuum hose is not being used.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush is provided, which includes a first bristle part that can be made to execute a first, continuously repeating movement. An additional bristle part, connected to the first bristle part, can be made to execute a second, continuously repeating movement, which differs from the first movement of the first bristle part.

Abstract: An electrically driven toothbrush has a rotatable shaft with a cam preferably at a remote end of the shaft, which fits into a slot in a bristle holder. The holder is mounted for rotation in a toothbrush head. When the shaft rotates cam describes a circle and drivingly engages the slot to cause the holder to vibrate in a first brushing motion. A second bristle holder is also driven by the shaft, for a second kind of brushing motion. The second bristle holder is driven through and engagement with a portion of the remote end and/or with one or more additional cams or cam portions included on the shaft.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush having a handle which houses a motor and a toothbrush member. The toothbrush member is configured for coupling with the handle. The toothbrush member has a plurality of brushes that rotate in opposite directions to enhance teeth cleaning, plaque removal and gum prophylaxis. Two separate switches are provided, one providing momentary operation and the other continuous.

Abstract: A mobile robot is described for random movement across a surface where a drive unit is arranged inside a top-hat. Cleaning equipment such as electrostatic dusters or equipment for vacuuming can be fixed to the top-hat so that the mobile robot functions as a cleaning robot.

Abstract: A mop fixture for receiving and holding a mop head has a hood of resilient polymeric material which is attachable to a mop handle. A mop retaining bar has opposite ends terminating in down turned hook portions and snaps into spaced end walls of the hood. A mop head with depending opposite strand bunches is centered by the mop retaining bar so that the center of the mop head is retained within the hood.

Abstract: A mop fixture for receiving and holding a mop head has a hood of resilient polymeric material which is attachable to a mop handle. A mop retaining bar has opposite ends terminating in down turned hook portions and snaps into spaced end walls of the hood. A mop head with depending opposite strand bunches is centered by the mop retaining bar so that the center of the mop head is retained within the hood. The mop retaining bar is removable to accommodate thicker or thinner mop heads.

Abstract: A toothbrush with improved function, created by the unique twist in the head. This twist allows the bristles to spread as they conform to the curve, giving a broader span to the brush. The innovative shape this toothbrush offers, will prove to simplify brushing, immensely.

Abstract: A toothbrush for use on humans and pets, comprising a toothbrush head with each end curved upward at 90 degree angles; said toothbrush head further comprising four sets of soft bristles. Three sets of bristles are attached to the front face of the brush head, with two sets positioned opposite each other on each upward curved end of the head and the third set of bristles positioned in the center, perpendicular to the other two sets, thereby providing coverage of the mesial, distal and occlusal surfaces of the teeth simultaneously. The fourth set of bristles is attached to the back side of the toothbrush head, thereby cleaning and massaging the opposing teeth at the same time that the other three sets of bristles are doing the primary cleaning. The toothbrush handle is attached to the center of the head for ease of use and the ability to reach the back molars.

Abstract: De-dusting brush structure including a patterned body, a connecting body, a brush body and an adjustment member. Two opposite sides of the connecting body are formed with ribs. An engaging flange is formed on lower end of the connecting body. The brush body is fixedly connected with the lower end face of the connecting body. The adjustment member is hollow and has a profile similar to that of the connecting body. An annular rib is formed on inner circumference of open end of the adjustment member. The adjustment member is fitted onto the connecting body and movable along the connecting body, whereby the annular rib of the adjustment member is up and down adjustably engaged with any of the ribs of the connecting body to locate the adjustment member. Accordingly, the volume of the brush body is adjustable and varied with the position of the adjustment member.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an optical-connector cleaning device, wherein an outer casing has an openable and closable window, through which a cleaning tape for cleaning fiber end surface of the optical connectors is gradually fed.

Abstract: Improved remove tabs for tacky inserts of a floor mat are disclosed. The remove tabs may have a non-smooth texture, be offset from adjacent tabs by separators, be differently sized, or otherwise be configured to enable easier handling and removal of an individual insert from a stack of inserts.

Abstract: Cleaning compositions, pads, wipes, and implements provide effective cleaning of hard surfaces.

Abstract: Cleaning compositions, pads, wipes, and implements provide effective cleaning of hard surfaces.

Abstract: A paint roller frame with a cage assembly rotatably mounted on a shaft portion of the roller frame, which is used with a replaceable paint roller sleeve, and accessories useful when working with the paint roller frame. The cage assembly is designed to securely retain a paint roller sleeve and to eliminate leakage of paint into the interior of the roller sleeve core. The roller cage assembly comprises the bearing portion and the outer portion which is removable to permit replacement of the roller sleeve. The bearing portion has the roller sleeve supporting surface and the inner annular face to be urged against the inner end of the sleeve core. The outer portion has the cylinder surface to support the outer end of the sleeve and the outer annular face to be urged against the outer end of the sleeve core.

Abstract: With a device for applying paint onto surfaces, especially ceilings and/or walls, comprising an applicator roll (1) rotatably supported on a bracket (2) fitted onto a stick (3), and a drip cup (5) associated to the applicator roll (1) and fitted displacably onto said stick, said drip cup comprising an opening (7) traversed by the stick (3) and a pipe socket (8) projecting from said opening and enclosing the stick (3) but being shorter than said stick (3), said drip cup (5) being retractable from a working position in which it encloses the stick-sided peripheral area of the applicator roll (1) to a release position in which the applicator roll (1) is pushed out of the drip cup (5), and vice-versa, a simple and easily applicable construction may be achieved in that the drip cup (5) is supported on the stick (3) in a self-locking way by a frictional force which may be overcome manually.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wiper element comprising a wiper blade made of an elastomeric material and reinforced with at least one elongated element (30). The elongated element (30) comprises a core (32) and a coating system (36). The coating system comprises a zinc alloy coating and a polyester coating on top of the zinc alloy coating. Using this coating system, the elongated element (30) is made corrosion resistant.

Abstract: A cleaning system for facilitating cleaning of a desired surface. The cleaning system comprising a base framework supporting a dust pan comprising a ramp area located adjacent a temporary collection receptacle, and the including a pivotal door to facilitate transfer of collected debris. The base framework also supporting a storage bin located adjacent the temporary collection receptacle. An actuation lever is connected to the base framework and operatively coupled to the dust pan to facilitate movement of the dust pan and transfer of any debris, temporarily stored in the temporary collection receptacle, to the storage bin once the pivotal door of the temporary collection receptacle opens.