Abstract: A helmet (10), especially a sports and recreational activities safety or protective helmet, having eye gear or goggle fastening means which properly position the eye gear and inhibit or prevent the eye gear from moving too far towards the rear of the helmet. More specifically, the outer shell of the helmet of the present invention includes at least one, preferably two, eye gear strap retaining means such as webbing or side clips (20). A gap in the outer shell is formed, which gap is adapted to receive at least a portion of the strap of straps (41) of the eye gear (40) of goggles. Once the strap of straps are received in the gap, the eye gear is properly oriented toward the front of the helment and inhibited or prevented from slipping too far twards the rear of the helmet.

Abstract: A connecting arrangement for apparel for such as sportswear, casual wear, technical wear and the like, as well as the apparel equipped with such arrangement. The connecting arrangement for apparel includes a first item of apparel including first connecting members and an item of apparel including second connecting members, the second connecting members being complementary to the first connecting members to allow a removable connection of the article of apparel to the first apparel item, the first and second connecting members providing a sliding male/female type connection.

Abstract: A form-fitting chest protector. In one embodiment, the chest protector includes a pair of detachably secured wing portions. A main portion of the chest protector has a variable thickness and substantially overlies the chest and abdomen of the athlete to absorb impacts to the athlete from a projectile. The wing portions are separate from the main portion, but are detachably secured to the chest protector to permit each wing portion to be adjustable when the chest protector is worn by the athlete. The wing portions facilitate a constant form-fit no matter how the body of the athlete flexes.

Abstract: Protective garments such as firefighters' coats and pants are described. The garments have an outer shell material made from substantially non-overlapping panels stitched together. Some panels are specially designed and reserved for carrying an enhanced visibility material on a majority of their exposed surface area. The enhanced visibility material can be a retroreflective material such as an exposed lens beaded construction, a fluorescent material, or a phosphorescent material. The enhanced visibility panel(s) are stitched to non-enhanced visibility panels so that if damaged, the stitch can be removed and the enhanced visibility panel replaced to repair the garment.

Abstract: Being reversible, a protective garment for a military or paramilitary firefighter or emergency worker has a shell of high visibility and a shell of low visibility. The shell of high visibility has portions that are reflective, fluorescent, or both, which the shell of low visibility does not have. When facing outwardly, the shell of low visibility appears black, or at least dark, in ambient light or displays camouflage. Except that the shell of low visibility does not have any reflective or fluorescent portions, the shells conform to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards for outer shells of protective garments for firefighters. The shells are equal, or at least similar, in basis weights.

Abstract: An outerwear garment comprises an inner shell having first closure means at first front edges thereof and first fastening means spaced from the first front edges on an outer surface of the inner shell. The inner shell is adapted for removable engagement with an insulated outer shell having greater insulating properties than the inner shell. The insulated outer shell has second closure means that are engageable with the first fastening means for removably fastening the insulated outer shell to the inner shell overtop thereof, to provide more insulation to said inner shell without requiring removal thereof by a user.

Abstract: A form fitting nursing tank top/undershirt (10) made with a stretch fabric includes an invisible build in nursing bra. The invisible nursing bra is partly internal and partly external. The external portion of the build in nursing bra is the left and right shoulder straps (5), which from outside appearances form an integral part of the tank top/undershirt. The internal portion of the built in nursing bra is formed by a soft cup frame (2) attached at the bottom to an elastic chest band (15) and attached at the top to the front of the shoulder straps. In the back of the garment, the elastic chest band (15) is attached to an internal back piece (8B) of fabric on the inside of the tank top. The internal back piece (8B) of fabric extends upward from the elastic chest band (15) to the shoulder straps (5) at the back, which shoulder straps each include an adjustable length section (9).

Abstract: Disclosed are nude socks in shoes. The nude sock 1 includes: a sock body 2 of bilateral symmetry having protrusions, which is in the form of the width of the Korean sock; a central part 4 formed at the center of a lower end, which forms a bottom part 3 of the sock body 2; first and second sewed parts 5 and 6 formed symmetrically with respect to the central part 4 and having a uniform curvature; a sock inlet 7 rounded and hollowed downwardly and forming an upper part of the sock body 2; and a band 8 mounted on the border of the sock inlet 7 and having elasticity. The nude sock 1 further includes an auxiliary sole 9 made of cotton fabrics and located on the bottom part 3 of the sock body 2 to absorb moisture generated from the sock body 2. The nude socks can prevent a sense of displeasure or various diseases generated from the user's feet because the user does not wear the shoes with bare feet.

Abstract: A protective clothing patch for cushioning high impact body parts of a person wearing clothing. The protective clothing patch having a lightweight flexible cushion member and a parabolic shaped outer sheath. This outer sheath gives the patch its unique appearance as a modified football shape. The sheath covers high impact cushioning, in a parabolic form, which aids in its ability to conform to the natural contour of the high impact body part such as the elbow, shin, shoulder, knee or buttocks. The protective clothing patch is permanently adhered by the user to clothing in the area desired to be protected from high impact. When the person comes into contact with the floor or ground the cushion member will better comfort the knees, elbows or buttocks. The protective clothing patch is durable, flexible and lightweight and it protects the garment from usual wear and tear and thereby extends the lifespan of the garment.

Abstract: The invention relates to a helmet with retractable visors for fast day/night reconfiguration.

Abstract: A pair of swimming/diving goggles includes lenses, two frames, two padding members, a bridge, and a head strap. At least two of the elements are integrally formed as a single piece. Each of the integrally formed elements is made of a basis material and a filling material that are mixed at a desired proportion. The basis materials and the filling materials for each of the integrally formed elements are identical, and the mixing proportions for the integrally formed elements are different from one another, thereby providing the integrally formed elements with respective appropriate rigidity and pull-resistance.

Abstract: A seat element for being inserted into a pair of cycling pants comprises a seat pad (10) for padding a seat surface in the bottom region. Further, the seat element comprises a bowl-shaped protective element (12) for the protection of the male genital region. The protective element (12) is connected with the seat pad (10). In the middle portion of the seat element, i.e., following the protective element (12), a vein protection channel (24) is provided. Because of the vein protection channel (24), a constriction of the vein extending in that region is avoided. Thereby, a circulation of blood to the male genitals will even be ensured if one sits on a cycle saddle for a long time.

Abstract: A lid cover suitable for covering a seat, such as a toilet seat lid, is disclosed. The lid cover has a top portion of material that forms a top surface of the lid cover; a bottom portion of material that forms a bottom surface of the lid cover and is coupled to the top portion of material along a perimeter of the cover; a placket formed in the bottom portion of material adjacent a top edge of the cover operable to assist in the placement and removal of the lid cover from a lid; a closure element adjacent the placket and the top edge of the cover and operable to retain the lid cover on the lid when activated; and a first fit enhancing element arranged on an axis substantially longitudinal the top edge and adjacent the perimeter of the cover.

Abstract: For pressure testing a drain and vent piping system communicating with a tub opening having an anchoring structure a plug has a central, axially extending aperture therethrough. The plug has a resilient, compressible portion and is provided with inner and outer ends. An anchor is located at the inner end of the plug and extends axially beyond the inner end to engage with the anchoring structure and seal the tub opening. The test plug assembly also includes a threaded shaft that passes through the aperture in the plug and connects to the anchor. A manually operated threaded actuator is located at the outer end of the plug and is configured for threadingly engaging the shaft to draw the actuator towards the anchor and compress the compressible portion of the plug to block fluid flow through the bath tub opening and permit pressure testing of the drain and vent piping system.

Abstract: A flushing lavatory consists of toilet pan, crushing pump and circuit control device. The stool crushing pipe is set at the bottom of the toilet pan and connected with the outlet of the crushing pump of the toilet pan. A magnetic valve is set on the stool crushing pipe. The stool collecting pipe is set at the bottom of the toilet pan and has a magnetic valve. The other end of the stool collecting pipe is open and can discharge the sewage. When flush the lavatory, under the control of the circuit control device, the flush liquid forms a circulation in the path generated by the toilet pan, crushing pump, stool crushing magnetic valve, stool crushing pipe and toilet pan and flushes the stool in the toilet pan into the crushing pump to crush.

Abstract: A portable device is provided for generating a current in a vessel having a side-wall, the vessel containing a fluid. The device includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a motor attached to the housing. A propeller, driven by the motor, is positioned in the housing. A float is attached to the housing to create a buoyant force sufficient to keep the portable device afloat in the fluid. Fluid is drawn into the housing through the inlet side and forced out of the housing through the outlet side to generate the current in the vessel.

Abstract: A water recreational apparatus has a water basin combination, a cover for covering the water basin combination and a cover removal combination. The cover removal combination includes a cover attachment arm which is rotatably attached to the exterior of the water basin combination. The cover attachment arm is adapted so that the rotation of the cover attachment arm about its attachment axes to the water basin combination alternatively moves the cover between a closed position and an open position. Drive means, such as electric motors, are provided for powering the cover attachment arm about its attachment axes so as to open and close the cover.

Abstract: A traveling swimming pool cover drum enclosure comprising a cover drum enclosure for containing a pool cover wound onto a central drive shaft, the cover drum enclosure having a plurality of wheels oriented for moving the cover drum enclosure to a position adjacent an edge of a swimming pool as desired, and an actuator coupled to the wheels of the cover drum enclosure for wheels are rotated, thereby causing the cover drum enclosure to travel to a position adjacent the edge of the swimming pool as desired.

Abstract: A wall-mounting rod for attaching a holder for a shower head having a shower hose has a groove on its front surface, into which the section of hose from the shower head emerging from the holder may be inserted. The holder also has a sort of groove, into which the hose may be inserted. A securing device that holds the hose in place in the groove in the rod is provided in the vicinity of the lower end of the rod.

Abstract: A hands-free device includes a sensor, a pilot valve assembly, an override control, and an electronic detent. Preferably, the pilot valve assembly allows a fluid to flow when an activation signal is received from the sensor. Preferably, the override control is coupled to the pilot valve assembly. The override control allows a continuous flow of fluids through an outlet port beyond the predetermined period of time. A method of controlling a continuous flow of water through a proximity faucet includes selecting a mode that allows water to flow continuously through a proximity sensor; locking a valve assembly to allow the water to flow beyond a period of time programmed within the proximity sensor; and providing an automatic and a mechanical system to discontinue the continuous flow of water.

Abstract: A mobile decontamination facility vehicle comprises two or fewer interior walls; the interior walls being seamless and defining an interior space. There is at least one removable partition that defines two decontamination areas within the interior space. The facility has a drain trough disposed centrally between the interior walls for removing waste water. A waste-water tank connects to the drain for holding waste water from the decontamination areas. A sump tank connects to the waste-water tank for receiving waste water from the waste-water tank by gravity flow. The sump tank has one or more sump pumps located inside it for pumping waste water from the facility to disposal.

Abstract: A faucet mounting system includes a trim member to which a faucet hub is attached. The system includes a pair of screws that attach the trim member to a foot member. The foot member is slid into a faucet opening in the deck. From the top of the deck, the screws are used to clamp the deck between the trim member and the foot member. The trim member defines a receptacle with alignment tabs that are used to position the faucet hub in the receptacle. The faucet hub has a mounting shank to which a mounting bracket is attached in order to secure the faucet hub to the deck from the underside of the deck.

Abstract: A retractable bed is disclosed which can be automatically raised and lowered in a vertical fashion. The retractable bed includes a frame for holding a mattress; and means for raising and lowering said bed through vertical displacement, such as one or more motors. When the bed is in the lowered configuration it will come into contact with the floor thereby permitting a person to sleep on the bed. When the bed is in the raised configuration it will be near the ceiling thereby permitting a person to pass under the bed.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a patient transfer device includes an elongated foam pad having a fluid impervious enclosure. The foam pad is configured to be placed under the patient on a first support surface, and extends along at least a portion of the patient's body. The foam pad defines a fluid chamber to receive fluid under pressure. The fluid chamber has a bottom wall facing the first support surface, and including perforations for expelling fluid against the first support surface to provide a fluid bearing to facilitate moving the foam pad and the patient supported thereon from the first support surface to an adjacent second support surface.

Abstract: A mattress cover, especially for hospital mattresses prevents the ingress of liquids to the mattress core. The mattress cover includes an opening to allow the cover to be put on, and taken off, a mattress core. The opening is closed by a zip fastener (10). The teeth (12) of the zip fastener (10) are mounted on a substrate which is impermeable to fluids. Preferably the substrate is coated with a polyurethane material (14). The teeth (12) of the zip fastener are directed inwardly towards the mattress core and the substrates act to cover the zip fastener when closed, thereby substantially preventing the ingress of fluids through the zip fastener. The opening is also provided with a cover flap which is constructed so that there are no exposed puncturing joins (such as are generated by stitching) which would allow the ingress of liquid.

Abstract: An apparatus is configured to be located on a frame of a patient support, the frame having a top surface configured to support a patient, the top surface having a length dimension and a width dimension. The apparatus includes an overlay positioned over the frame of the patient support, the overlay having an upper surface to support the patient and a lower surface configured to abut the top surface of the patient support. The overlay has a width dimension greater than the width dimension of the top surface. A retainer maintains the overlay in a desired position on the frame.

Abstract: The invention relates to a patient positioning and transport system comprising a transportable stretcher (1) and a cart (2) for transporting the stretcher (1) with the patient. The stretcher (1) can be removed from the cart (2) to be placed on a diagnosis or treatment station (4). A patient positioning and transport system of the aforementioned type should be designed as to avoid, to the greatest possible extent, repositionings of the patient between separate diagnosis or treatment stations (4). Towards this end, at least one adapter plate (3) that can be assigned to the stretcher (1) is provided, whereby the stretcher (1), the adapter plate (3) and the cart (2) can be joined to another and are configured in such a manner that the stretcher (1) with the patient can be transferred from the cart (2) to various, differently designed diagnosis or treatment stations (4) and back.

Abstract: A multiple position air mattress system for achieving various support positions includes a first mattress, a second mattress, and a bellows unit attached to the second mattress. The bellows unit is extendable for either elevating the second mattress or providing a support for an individual. A pump unit is adapted to be fluidly connected to and for providing pressurized air to the first mattress, the second mattress and the bellows unit. The multiple position air mattress can assume a prone bed position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit deflated, a recessed lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated and atop the second mattress, an adjustable lounge position with the mattresses longitudinally adjacent each other and the bellows unit inflated under the second mattress, and a chair position with the first mattress under the second mattress, and the mattresses and bellows unit inflated.

Abstract: Water temperature selection in a washing machine is accomplished by utilizing a single selector that is in communication with an associated processor. The single selector is preferably on the same board as the processor thereby defining a water temperature selection and control module. The water temperature selector and control module is in communication with various other selectors, sensors, detectors, inputs, or the like to receive signals therefrom. The input signals are processed by the processor to produce signals to control water flow for the washing machine. In one form, the single selector is a resistive potentiometer that provides a resistance signal to the processor. In this form, the processor is in communication with the water valves and directly energizes the water valves in accordance with the resistive signal from the potentiometer.

Abstract: The invention relates to the use of an effective amount of at least one polymer chosen from polymers of the following formula (I): 1 in which n denotes a number of amide units, such that the number of ester groups represents from 10% to 50% of the total number of ester and amide groups; R1 is, in each case, independently an alkyl or alkenyl group having at least 4 carbon atoms; R2 independently represents, in each case, a C4 to C42 hydrocarbonaceous group, provided that 50% of the R2 groups represent a C30 to C42 hydrocarbonaceous group; R3 independently represents, in each case, an organic group provided with at least 2 carbon atoms, with hydrogen atoms and optionally with one or more oxygen or nitrogen atoms; and R4 independently represents, in each case, a hydrogen atom, a C1 to C10 alkyl group or a direct bond to R3 or another R4, so that the nitrogen atom to which both R3 and R4 are bonded forms part of a heterocyclic structure defined by R4-N-R3, with at least 50% of the R4 groups representing a h

Abstract: The invention relates to novel diaminopyrazole having formula (I), wherein: R1, R2, identical or different, represent a C3 C5 mono- or polyhydroxyalkyl, isopropyl, n-propyl or ethyl group, said groups being linear or branched, and their physiologically acceptable salts. The invention also relates to a composition for dyeing keratinous fibres containing a compound having formula (I) and the method for using same.

Abstract: A composition of certain dyes with a category-2 hair bleach can simultaneously lighten hair up to seven levels and deposit various shades of color in a single step. The dyes are bleach-stable derivatives of azo, triarylmethane, thiazine, or nitro dyes. When linked at the ortho- and/or para-positions relative to the chromophoric centers and auxoclirome groups located on or attached to the aromatic rings of these dyes, deactivating or weakly activating chemical groups enhance the dye stability in the alkaline bleach. The absence of ortho and/or para positioned deactivating or weakly-activating substituents, or the presence of strongly activating groups in these positions render the dye molecule susceptible to attack by the bleach and the eventual destruction of these dyes. These deactivating and protective chemical groups may be nitro, halogen, cyano, carboxyl, sulfonic, alkyl or aromatic groups, but not amino, hydroxy, alkoxy or alkylamide groups.

Abstract: The invention concerns a dyeing composition for dyeing keratinous fibres, in particular human keratinous fibres and more particularly hair, comprising a dicationic diazo dye of formula W1—N═N—W2—N═N—W3 as well as the dyeing method using same and the novel compounds of formula (I).

Abstract: The invention relates to an oxidizing composition for keratin fibres, in particular for human keratin fibres and more particularly the hair, comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium:

Abstract: The cationic dyes of formula (1) specified in claim 1 are suitable especially for colouring keratin-containing fibres, more especially for colouring hair.

Abstract: A method for printing a dye sublimation ink decoration on a surface of a type which is generally incompatible with dye sublimation direct image transfer. The method includes the steps of applying a coating receptive to dye sublimation ink printing to one surface of a release sheet. Applying an adhesive to the exposed surface of the coating. Removing the release sheet from the coating and printing a decoration on the coating using a sublimation heat transfer printing process. Positioning the adhesive against the surface which is to receive the direct image transfer to adhere and support the coating and the release sheet on the surface.

Abstract: A folding ramp is provided that includes an upper ramp, a lower ramp, and at least one handle assembly for providing ease of transport of the folding ramp. The upper ramp extends between a first end and a second end, and includes an upper ramp loading track, an upper first side support, an upper second side support, and a vehicle mounting member. The lower ramp extends between a first end and a second end, and the lower ramp includes a lower ramp loading track, a lower first side support, a lower second side support, a ground engaging member, and the rotation member. The upper ramp and the lower ramp include a rotation member that extends between the upper and lower first side supports and the upper and lower second side supports to allow rotation of the lower ramp relative to the upper ramp. The lower ramp loading track includes a first side and a second side and extends from the first end of the lower ramp to the second end of the lower ramp.

Abstract: A lift is coupled to the outer cab or rotunda of a telescoping bridge. The lift has a carriage that can be moved by a cable and a motor upward or downward and which includes a platform that has sensing means for controlling the motor for stopping downward movement of the carriage when it engages the ground. An electrically operated safety catch is provided to prevent the carriage form falling in the event the cable breaks. A safety system is provided which prevents the bridge from moving if the carriage is not in the up position and its door is not closed.

Abstract: An electric toothbrush has an electric motor (11) and a mechanical coupling arrangement to convert rotary motion of the motor into rotational oscillations of a brush head 21. The mechanical coupling includes a skewed peripheral flange (16) on a shaft (12) that is rotated by the motor. A follower (17) is constrained to move backwards and forwards in plane parallel to a longitudinal axis (A) of the toothbrush. The follower is driven backwards and forwards by the flange (16) in use. The follower is rigidly connected to a brush drive shaft (20) that is pivotable connected to the brush head (13) at one side of its rotational axis.

Abstract: A multi-part single-use toothbrush system comprises an electric toothbrush such as a rotary electric toothbrush, a plurality of disposable toothbrush heads, each with dentifrice sufficient for a single tooth brushing use, and each with a connector for attachment to and detachment from the electric toothbrush, and a dispenser for holding and dispensing such disposable toothbrush heads.

Abstract: A floor sweeper for the collection of debris from a surface which comprises a handle pivotatably attached to a body have top and side portions and a open bottom containing at least two sets of wheels, at least one roller brush and one or more collection receptacles. At least segment of the top portion of the body contains is formed of a transparent material, such that a window or similar structure is provided for the sweeper user to observe the function of the sweeper or the amount and type of debris accumulated therein.

Abstract: A toothbrush with a handle having a base, a body, and a head. The body having a first section and a second section forming an oblique angle. A projector of a beam of light located within the handle. The toothbrush having at least one bristle attached to the head. The toothbrush having a grip attached to the base. A method of using a toothbrush including the step of gripping the toothbrush. The method further including the step of engaging the projector of a beam of light. The method still further including the step of utilizing the toothbrush while the projector of a light beam is activated.

Abstract: A multi-application art tool apparatus for use by paralytic or other physically challenged individuals. The art tool apparatus comprises a rod, at least one strap for attachment, and a plurality of art tools pivotally attached to the end of the rod with a nut and bolt assembly. The nut and bolt assembly allows for easy and multiple positioning of the art tool selected. Different art tools may be easily added or removed from the art tool apparatus.

Abstract: A mophead is attached to a holder and an abrasive sheet or pad also attached to the holder. The abrasive sheet or pad extends to one side of the holder and is on the exterior of the mophead. A protective sheet is between the mophead and the abrasive sheet or pad to at least reduce any damage to the mophead by the abrasive sheet or pad.

Abstract: A toilet bowl brush that is especially useful to industrial and commercial cleaners is provided. The toilet bowl brush has an elongated handle with a grasping portion and a connecting portion. The grasping portion and connection portion have centerlines at an angle to one another. A brush head body is connected to the connecting portion of the handle. Scrubbing bristles extend from the brush head body at a variety of angles, including at an acute angle of from about 35° to slightly less than 90°, relative to a centerline of the connection portion of the elongated handle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a blade holder (1) for releasable holding of a blade (5), in particular for cleaning purposes, having a first section (3) and a second section (4) connected to each other in such a way that they can be slewed with each other around an axis (6) and where the first section (3) has a first clamping surface (3′) and the second section (4) has a second clamping surface (4′) pointed towards each other and held against each other under tension by slewing the first (3) and/or the second (4) section in such a way that a blade (5) inserted between the clamping surfaces is held by the force of clamping and where the axis (6) essentially lies in the plane of the first (3′) and/or the second (4′) clamping surface and the first (3) and/or second (4) section in the tensioned condition of the clamping surfaces (3′, 4′) are held fast by means of a catch mechanism (7, 8).

Abstract: A windshield wiper drive linkage is provided for use in a wiper system. The linkage includes a crank arm connectible to an output shaft of a drive motor. A drive arm is pivotally connected to the crank arm for movement between first and second angular positions about a pivot pin with respect to one another. A flexible composite spring extends between the crank arm and the drive arm. The flexible composite spring is preloaded into an initial arcuate position and is bendable from the initial position to facilitate preventing damage to components in the wiper system when a load applied to the arms exceeds a predetermined load.

Abstract: An automatic roller wringer for mops and the like, consisting of the incorporation of the main gears (12) inside the casing (2), one of the gears being provided with a projection (13) for the stop, the main gears being asymmetrically assembled on either side, engaging with the fixed roller (5), each one of the main gears (12) being provided with an eccentric guide on the inner part through which the pivots of the movable roller (7) pass until the latter is in a position adjacent to the fixed roller (5), which upwardly rotates, the arms supporting the pivots of the arm of the movable roller (7) being provided with a spring on each one.

Abstract: A carrier, such as an autonomous cleaning apparatus, has a self-adjusting wheel assembly that can move vertically, thereby enabling the carrier to readily pass over a surface. The wheel assembly may include actuating means, which activates a control mechanism for the carrier when a wheel assembly is in a predetermined position along its path of vertical movement. Rotatable support means can be located at the bottom of the carrier to function in cooperation with the wheel assemblies so as to facilitate the ability of the carrier to pass over obstacles. This ability may be enhanced by constructing the bottom of the front portion of the carrier so that it is slanted or inclined upwardly in a direction outward from the bottom of the carrier. A driving wheel may be rotatably attached to a support means, and which may also support a power source and a transmission means.

Abstract: A street sweeper with vacuumized dust control where a rotary broom chamber surrounds a rotary broom. The rotary broom chamber connects by a conveyor housing containing a conveyor mechanism to a hopper having a powered fan and a filter. A vacuum or low pressure is created within the hopper which communicates through the conveyor housing to the rotary broom chamber which creates an airflow therebetween which carries dust or other light debris to a filter which filters out the dust particles or other light debris. The conveyor housing and other components are positionable to accommodate various modes of operation.