Abstract: A wetsuit is composed multiple panels sewn together in edge-to-edge relationship, each panel comprising a highly stretchable base fabric sandwiched between an outer and inner layer of synthetic rubber, the outer synthetic rubber layer is dense and tough, providing protection against damage by abrasion, while the inner synthetic rubber layer is thicker and less dense, providing the material with a good insulating ability. The outer layer is thinner than the inner layer to compensate for the higher elastic modulus of the denser outer layer, so that the layers stretch uniformly. A thin, colored, chloroprene adhesive coating is provided on the outside of the outer layer, and the outer layer is embossed with a mesh pattern The seams are blind-stitched through the base fabric from the outside. Because the stretchable fabric is on the inside of the wetsuit material, the wetsuit dries rapidly.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating quick and convenient putting-on and taking-off of various personal apparel and accessories, including a variety of protection and/or sporting equipment. One example includes a goalie pad including a protective portion configured to protect at least some portion of a leg of a person, and an adjustable portion coupled to the protective portion and including at least one adjustment mechanism configured to facilitate an adjustable fitting of the goalie pad to the person. The goalie pad further includes at least one attach/release mechanism, coupled to the protective portion and the adjustable portion, to facilitate at least one of a putting-on and a taking-off of the goalie pad to and from the person. In various aspects, putting-on and taking-off of the goalie pad may be performed without making any significant adjustments to the adjustment mechanism(s), and/or may be performed by a single act.

Abstract: A light weight, high visibility garment is intended to be worn over regular or service clothing. This garment comprises: a front panel and a back panel that extend from the neck to the hips or waist; mating fastener arrangements at the shoulders and hips detachably connecting the front and back panels; and front and rear retro-reflective bands spanning the front and the back panels. Preferably, the mating fastener arrangements at each of the shoulders include a front arrangement that is affixed to the upper edge of the front panel and a rear arrangement that is affixed to an upper edge of the back panel. When one or both of the panels are grasped and pulled, the mating fastener arrangements separate, thereby freeing the front and back panels from each other and from the wearers body.

Abstract: A method of sealing the join between two tapes to which the teeth of a waterproof zip are attached and two edges of a garment composed of a first or waterproof layer and a second or fabric layer, which comprises: a) applying to a first side of each tape, a strip of heat-weldable textile material attached to it, by at least one weld line, such that each strip comprises a first and a second flap; b) welding the edge of the first layer to one face of the flap furthest from the teeth; c) attaching the edge of the second layer to the second side of each tape; d) folding down the flap nearest to the teeth of the zip; and e) forming another weld that hermetically joins the outline of the outer edges of the flap to the corresponding tape around the area.

Abstract: An air filtration system and a helmet for use in the air filtration system are disclosed and utilized to filter air between a head and body of a user and an external environment. The air filtration system and helmet include inner and outer shells that define an air flow channel for channeling air about the user. A fan module is mounted between the inner and outer shells and a scroll housing is mounted adjacent the fan module. The scroll housing includes an air inlet for drawing air into the air filtration system and helmet, and at least one air outlet to distribute air flow to the air flow channel. The helmet includes air exits at front and rear sections that are in fluid communication with the air flow channel and the air outlet or outlets. The air filtration system includes a gown operating as a filter for filtering the air.

Abstract: A neck warmer is provided with a subset of indicia from a character's face to provide the appearance of a complete character face when worn by a child. The neck warmer appearance provides the advantage of encouraging children to wear outdoor protection garments such as the neck warmer by creating the appearance of a custom. Accordingly, the warmer of the invention provides a significant advantage in encouraging children, who are usually reluctant to wear such garments, to wear a neck warmer during cold weather.

Abstract: A mask for skin diving includes a skirt and two lenses laterally symmetrically mounted within the skirt. The skirt has two outer ends that are rearward inclined by a predetermined angle, and the lenses also have two outer ends that are rearward inclined by an angle corresponding to the skirt, so that a user's sight projecting toward two lateral sides could be widened without being blocked by the skirt. The angle by which the outer ends of the skirt and the lenses are rearward inclined is preferably within the range from 5 to 10 degrees.

Abstract: This invention referred to as,“Just Flip It’, Toilet Seat And Toilet Seat Cover Lifting Aid consists of two parts. Part one attaches to the underside of a toilet seat. Part two attaches to the underside of a toilet seat cover. The design of the toilet seat and toilet seat cover is comprised of two parts utilizing a common hinge to join them, as one unit, yet allowing each part to perform its individual function. The invention “Just Flip It”, compliments the operational function of the toilet seat and toilet seat cover by providing each part its very own assist handle thereby allowing the toilet seat and toilet seat cover to fully and efficiently function on an individual basis, in a more sanitary manner than grabbing the toilet seat or toilet seat cover directly with the hand.

Abstract: A metered water control system inlet tube (24) receiving water conducting water into the interior of the tank to a diverter. A diverter (48) channels the flow to cause mechanical motion responsive to the channeled flow. A control valve (66 and 60), responsive to a mechanical switch, opens and closes access of the water from the inlet tube to the diverter. A mechanical switch (124, 112, and 114), responsive to flow of water from the diverter, closes the control valve automatically when a predeterminable volume of water flows through the diverter. A discharge tube (20 and 24) receives water from the diverter to discharge the water into the tank. An actuator (158 and 162) linked to a flush arm of the toilet and linked to the mechanical switch causes the switch to open the control valve to allow the pre-determined volume of water to flow into the discharge tube.

Abstract: A toilet comprising a bowl sized to contain a fluid and a valve movable between an open position in which a liquid is delivered to the bowl and a closed position in which the liquid does not flow to the bowl. A sensor is operable to sense a liquid level within the bowl and an actuator is movable between a flush position and an idle position. A controller is operable to move the valve to the open position in response to movement of the actuator to the flush position and a liquid level within the bowl below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A bath mat comprises a base member made from a first elastomeric material and at least one contrast member differing from the base member but manufactured to be integral with the base member through an over-molding or co-molding process. The contrast member differs in color and/or hardness or feel from the base member providing improved aesthetics and functionality.

Abstract: A shower system is provided that includes a configurable enclosure at least partially defining a shower area. The shower system also includes a basin having a first channel sized to receive a lower edge of the enclosure such that the enclosure is configurable with respect to the basin in at least one functional arrangement.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method for illuminating a toilet seat, and more specifically, to a toilet seat illuminator having glow-in-the-dark properties and a bottom surface with means for connecting the bottom surface with a substrate. When the toilet seat illuminator is connected with a toilet seat, a user can easily locate the toilet seat in a dark room through illuminating properties of the toilet seat illuminator.

Abstract: An overflow device for a bathtub with an overflow inlet arranged for mounting in a conventional overflow hole of the bathtub and a valve connected between a water supply and a conventional bath tap. A spring can be used to change the valve from its open state to its closed state. A float and trigger lever can detect water that has entered the overflow inlet and trigger the device to change, using the stored spring energy, from a set state in which the valve is open to a triggered state in which the valve is closed. A manually operable resetting element can be operated by a user to replenish the spring with energy and return the device to the set state. The device can be permanently plumbed in and the bulk of the device can be hidden from view outside the bathtub.

Abstract: Disclosed is a baby crib or cradle constructed from foldable material, preferably corrugated cardboard that forms multiple elements from a single sheet of material, and supports the baby above the ground. In kit form, the crib may be supplied in a partially assembled state to facilitate ease of end user assembly.

Abstract: A towel to tote bag convertible article is disclosed that comprises a towel, preferably a sports towel, having a planar face. A pocket provided on the face has an opening sized to receive and contain at least the second end region and the intermediate region. The pocket is configured for being turned inside out to form a tote bag. A closure is provided for enabling the closing of the pocket opening after the pocket is turned inside out. A decorative or waterproof lining may be attached to the pocket to form the outside of the tote bag when the pocket is turned inside out. The towel can be divided into different segments an additional pockets can be provided on either side of the towel and a have mouths directed longitudinally or laterally. There can be different shapes to the planar part and there can be different separable portions of the planar area to facilitate a smaller tote pocket for locating the folded towel.

Abstract: In accordance with the present disclosure, a siderail apparatus for a siderail of a hospital bed is provided that is configured to be coupled to the siderail. Preferably, the siderail apparatus is padded.

Abstract: There is described a bed comprising a frame, a rail pivotally mounted on the frame and pivotable between a guardrail position and an open position, a distance between the frame and the rail when the rail is in the guardrail position, and a resilient element mounted on the frame or on the rail or on both the frame and the rail to fill the distance between the frame and the rail when the rail is in the guardrail position to thereby reduce rattling of the rail when the rail is in the guardrail position. The resilient element is preferably a resilient roller mounted on the frame, the roller engaging the rail when the rail is pivoted into the guardrail position.

Abstract: A deep pocket sheet is disclosed having panels that envelop the bottom and top sixths to thirds of a mattress, rather than the entire mattress. The deep pocket sheet is safe, easy to construct, easy to apply and remove, and is particularly suited for use in conjunction with crib mattresses.

Abstract: Improved bedding, more particularly institutional and hotel top and/or bottom sheets and blankets having a specially contoured foot section that provides for faster changing, ease of tucking under a mattress, and less pressure on the feet of the occupant (sleeper) or bed-ridden patient. The best mode embodiment comprises a bedding sheet or blanket having the foot-end, or/and the head end corners cut away, and those edged secured with binding tape, selvage edge sewing or the like to prevent raveling or tearing at the juncture of the cuts. For a top sheet or blanket, only the foot corners are cut away, and for a bottom sheet both the foot and head ends are cut away. The resulting bedding can be tucked without extra, folded-over bedding in the corner tuck.

Abstract: A multipurpose 1911 pistol servicing tool consisting of two pliers heads pivotably assembled together with each pliers head having pivotably affixed to it a three-sided handle and with one handle having pivotably affixed to it and within it a series of screwdriver blade components and a file component and with the other handle having pivotably affixed to it and within it, a pair of accessory punch components, a hexagonal driver component and a round file component.

Abstract: Bioprosthetic tissues are treated by immersing or otherwise contacting fixed, unfixed or partially fixed tissue with a glutaraldehyde solution that has previously been heat-treated or pH adjusted prior to its contact with the tissue. The prior heat treating or pH adjustment of the glutaraldehyde solution causes its free aldehyde concentration to decrease by about 25% or more, preferably by as much as 50%, and allows a “stabilized” glutaraldehyde solution to be obtained at the desired concentration and pH for an optimal fixation of the tissue at high or low temperature. This treatment results in a decrease in the tissue's propensity to calcify after being implanted within the body of a human or animal patient.

Abstract: Pigskin is processed to provide a bleached, expanded skin used in dog treat or chew products. The raw pigskin is dehaired and then daubed with an alkali mixture of an alkali liquid, alkali enzymes and lime, the mixture having a pH of greater than or equal to 12. The alkali mixture dissolves the colloidal protein. The alkali is removed by alternately rinsing the skin in water and agitating the skin with first ammonium chloride or ammonium sulfate, and then second with ammonium chloride or ammonium sulfate, and pancreatic enzymes. The skin is agitated with sodium carbonate and a degreaser to remove the fat. The skin is then washed with hydrogen peroxide, which bleaches and expands the skin. The skin is then formed into a dog product and dried.

Abstract: Methods for washing fabric loads without water or using water only as a co-solvent are disclosed. One method of non-aqueous clothes washing includes the steps of disposing clothing in a wash container, delivering a wash liquor to the fabric load, the wash liquor comprising a substantially non-reactive, non-aqueous, non-oleophilic, apolar working fluid and at least one washing additive, applying mechanical energy to the clothing and wash liquor for a sufficient amount of time to provide fabric cleaning and, thereafter, substantially removing the wash liquor from the fabric load. The working fluid may be selected from the group consisting of perfluorocarbons, hydrofluoroethers, fluorinated hydrocarbons and fluoroinerts.

Abstract: The present technique provides systems and methods for integrally washing and drying laundry articles in a home application. Certain embodiments provide a home laundry machine having a drying mechanism pneumatically coupled to a laundry enclosure via an air inlet and an air outlet. The drying mechanism comprises a heating device disposed upstream of the air inlet and a cooling device disposed downstream of the air outlet.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for a quick wash cycle include spinning a basket of a washing machine, pausing the spinning of the basket, and spraying water while the basket is paused.

Abstract: A hair dye composition comprising a component (A), which is a specified long-chain acyl sulfonic acid salt anionic surfactant, in an amount of 0.1 to 10.0 wt. %; a component (B), which is an aliphatic alcohol, in an amount of 0.25 to 25.0 wt. %; and a component (C), which is an acid dye and/or a natural dyestuff. The hair dye composition is stable even in a strongly acidic region (pH 1.5 to 4.5) where it exerts a dyeing effect. It has an appropriate viscosity and provides excellent sensation upon use. Furthermore, the composition can be easily rinsed off after use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention relates storage stable aqueous dye solutions comprising a) 5 to 30% by weight of a dye of the Formula (1) in which K is a residue of a coupling component of the acetoacetanilide, pyridone, pyrazolone or pyrimidine series and M is hydrogen, an alkali metal or alkaline earth metal, ammonium or alkyl ammonium, b) 0.

Abstract: The invention concerns a dyeing composition for keratinous fibres, in particular human keratinous fibres such as hair, comprising in an appropriate dyeing medium, at least a direct cationic colouring agent of specific formula, and characterised in that it further contains at least a quaternary ammonium salt. The invention also concerns methods and devices using said composition.

Abstract: A dyeing method of a plastic lens (10), including the steps of placing the lens (10) in a vacuum vapor deposition device (20); placing a base body (1) for dyeing in the vapor deposition device (20), the base body having a dye application area (2) in which a sublimatable dye is applied, so that the dye application area (2) faces. a surface of the lens to be dyed; and heating the base body (1) in the vapor deposition device (20) under almost a vacuum, while restraining a rise in temperature of the lens (10), to sublimate the dye, depositing the sublimed dye on the lens.

Abstract: Method for developing custom lasts. The method comprising developing a last and a test shoe from the last for an individual, the test shoe meeting at least one predetermined criteria based on feedback from the individual, determining at least one measurement of the developed last, storing the at least one measurement and developing another last for another individual by modifying the stored at least one measurement.

Abstract: A bridge overhang bracket includes an elongate top member having inner and outer ends an elongate diagonal member having an inner end and an outer end, the outer end of the diagonal member pivotally attached to the outer end of the top member, upper and lower pivot joints secured to the top member and diagonal member, respectively, adjacent the respective inner ends thereof, and an elongate side member extending between and engaged with the upper and lower pivot joints. At least one of the pivot joints comprises an adjustable axial engagement mechanism for adjusting the position along the length of the side member at which the at least one pivot joint engages the side member.

Abstract: Apparatus for cleaning the rim of a wheel. The apparatus comprises a housing journaling a driveshaft, driven by an electric motor and mounting a pair of wire brushes configured to contact the wheel rim. Guides on the housing cause the axis of the drive shaft to be parallel to the wheel axis. In use, the housing pivots to follow the wheel rim while the electric motor remains in the same orientation. A brake mechanism between the housing and electric motor prevents rotation of the housing when the guides are not engaged with the wheel rim.

Abstract: An oral cleaning device that can fit onto a human finger is provided. The oral cleaning device, or dental wipe, is at least partially made from an elastomeric material, such as an elastomeric nonwoven, so that the wipe can more aptly fit onto a finger. Furthermore, the wipe, in some instances, can possess a barrier that is liquid-impervious, but vapor-permeable so that the finger of a user is more comfortable during cleaning. Various additives can be applied to the wipe to aid in the cleaning process.

Abstract: A toothbrush body includes an integral head, a body and a tail portion, wherein the head includes indents for receiving bristles and the tail portion, which is inclined relative to the body portion, includes an indent for receiving the base of an interdental brush.

Abstract: A toothbrush, either manual or powered, including an elongated member with a head at one end and a handle at the other end. The toothbrush is generally aligned along a central longitudinal axis. The head having a brush face including a brush cavity from which a plurality of bristles extend. The bristles being arranged in a plurality of bristle tufts so as to extend generally perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis. The toothbrush also includes a plurality of lateral support members extending upwardly from a base of the brush cavity. The bristles are attached to the toothbrush by an attachment device provided in the brush cavity. The attachment device engages at least one of the tufts and secures the tuft between adjacent lateral support members. The attachment device includes a bottom edge and a top edge.

Abstract: My Reynwand invention is a wand that has a squeegie washer or wiper attached longitudinaly at the end to facilitate the washing of windows in the confines of space between a truck's rear cab and the truck's topper or camper. The quiver that will be utilized by the wands holds water unlike an Indian arrow quiver.

Abstract: An apparatus for infusing cleaning solution into a cleaning implement, such as a sponge, is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a compartment, above the floor of which a perforated plate is mounted on compressible levitation means, such as springs. Cleaning solution, such as soapy water, can be introduced into, or mixed in, the compartment. The cleaning implement is placed on the plate and can then be lowered into the cleaning solution. In a second embodiment, a second compartment is provided within the apparatus that can contain a cleaning agent, such as liquid soap. A pump is provided to transfer the cleaning agent to the first compartment. For both embodiments, lids are provided for the compartments to prevent escape of the contents therein when the apparatus is not in use or is being transported.

Abstract: A dustpan includes a casing pivotally attached to a housing, and rotatable relative to the housing between an upward folding position and a downward working position. The casing includes a chamber for receiving dirt, and defined by an upper panel, a bottom panel, and two side panels, and includes a front opening, and one or more projections extended forwardly from the upper panel of the casing, and extended into the front opening of the casing, for removing hairy members or fibers or threads or dirt from the broom, and thus for preventing the users' hands from being contacted with the brush member of the broom and the dirt or the hairy members.

Abstract: The invention provides a device (10) for detailing contoured motor vehicle surfaces (11), including a cleaning head comprising a) a first chamber (12) having an opening (14) facing the direction of said motor vehicle surface and provided with a motor-driven application means and a treatment substance inlet leading into said chamber (12); b) at least one vacuum chamber at least partially bounded by barrier walls (28) having peripheries adapted to slidingly engage said motor vehicle surfaces (11) while maintaining a partial vacuum (26) there against to assist sliding adherence of said head to said surface, said vacuum chamber (26) being provided with a suction outlet (32) exiting therefrom; and c) a stationary portion (34) including guide means (36) and drive means for said motor driven application means.

Abstract: An airflow diverter for an upright-type vacuum cleaner and an upright-type vacuum cleaner equipped with the same, are disclosed. The airflow diverter includes an inlet port formed on a cleaner body within which the vacuum generation device is received, air being drawn into the inlet port by the suction force generated by the vacuum generation, and a housing installed in the inlet port. The housing includes a first opening in communication with the vacuum generation device, a second opening in communication with the floor suction brush, and a third opening in communication with the auxiliary suction brush.

Abstract: A dirt cup for a vacuum cleaner includes a housing defining a dirt collection chamber, an inlet and an outlet in the housing in fluid communication with the dirt collection chamber and a filter holder on the housing external to the dirt collection chamber and downstream from the outlet. A vacuum cleaner incorporating the dirt cup is also provided.

Abstract: A system for cutting and cleaning material to be cut. The system is particularly effective for hard materials which produce heavy particles. The system is ideal for cutting green concrete. This invention provides a two-piece device for locating vacuum a hose connection for a circular saw used in cutting concrete. The hose connection is contained in the low, rear part of the lower piece. The invention also proves a vacuum cleaner which passes debris-laden air through water which collects the debris. Water-laden air rising from the water is passed around a first water barrier connected to a float and a second water barrier connected to the top of the container in order to remove entrapped water droplets which may contain debris.

Abstract: A vacuum cleaner attachment is provided. The vacuum cleaner attachment includes a chassis and a plurality of wheels. The chassis is adapted to roll on an underlying surface using the plurality of wheels. The vacuum cleaner attachment further includes a vacuum cleaner receptacle formed in the chassis and adapted to receive a vacuum cleaner and corresponding power brushroll. The vacuum cleaner attachment further includes a vacuum airflow conduit formed in the chassis and adapted to communicate a vacuum airflow of the vacuum cleaner through the chassis. The vacuum cleaner attachment further includes one or more rollers rotatably held in the chassis and positioned to receive rotational power from the power brushroll of the vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is positioned in the vacuum cleaner receptacle. The one or more rollers are positioned in the chassis to make contact with the underlying surface.

Abstract: Caster wheel assemblies that may be snap-fitted onto a cylindrical tank or drum are shown and described. Also dolly-wheel assemblies that include an axle supported by two wheels are also disclosed which may be snap-fitted onto a cylindrical tank or drum. The caster wheel assemblies and dolly wheel assemblies disclosed herein may be easily mounted onto a tank or drum without the need for a separate supporting platform. A flexible nature of the caster wheel assemblies and wheel-dolly assemblies enables them to be snap-fitted onto tanks of varying diameters.

Abstract: A biased door retaining assembly including a hook member, a support assembly having a biasing means, and an arm having a first end and a second end. The support assembly and the biasing means may engage the first end of the arm biasing the arm in a first direction. The second end of the arm is adapted to engage the hook member.

Abstract: This invention is directed to assist users of hand-carried, wheeled luggage in maintaining extraordinary lateral and obstruction-free use of the wheeled object without the problems associated with conventional wheeled luggage handle assemblies. The intent of the attachment device is to create enough lateral clearance between the user's body, legs, and feet and the luggage piece or handle framework to provide this obstruction-free use.

Abstract: A side pivot hinge includes a joint body for securely mounting a side edge portion of the glass structure, a joint seat, having a joint sleeve, for securely mounting to a border frame, and an angular adjustment arrangement which includes a joint housing securely mounted to the joint body, a supporting shaft rotatably supported by the joint housing to rotatably insert into the joint sleeve to pivotally connect the joint body with the joint seat, and an angular adjustment locker to securely lock up the supporting shaft within the joint housing such that when the joint body is angularly moved with the joint seat for adjustably aligning the glass structure with the border frame, the supporting shaft is locked up at the joint housing in a rotatably movable manner via the angular adjustment locker for retaining an alignment of the glass structure in position with the border frame.

Abstract: The movement of a hinge, preferably for furniture, comprising a hinge arm or a fixed-body hinge section and a pivotable hinge section flexibly connected thereto, is damped by a rotation damper at least damped over part of the closure path to the closed position. In order that the hinge can be manufactured at reduced cost, the rotation damper is an axial damper whose axis forms a hinge axis of the hinge and whose cylinder is fixedly connected to the hinge section which is pivotably supported on the axis.

Abstract: A pivot-action damper which for example dampens the impact effect of the closing movement of doors, furniture doors or flaps displays excellent braking force or damping force, even over small angular regions as a result of an outer cylindrical body which encompasses an inner body which is pivotable in relation to said outer cylindrical body. Between the two bodies there are two chambers, separated from each other by a gap or a throttle position, with said chambers containing a liquid. This liquid is displaced from one chamber to the other as a result of the rotation of the two bodies in relation to each other.