Abstract: A method of using a face protector includes providing a face protector including a lens and a face plate configured to protect the forehead, eyes, cheeks, jaw, chin, mouth, ears, and nose of a user without protecting substantially the remainder of the user's head; applying the face protector to the user's head; wearing the face protector during an activity; and removing the face protector after the activity.

Abstract: This invention is a medical examination gown with devices to hold it together The two outer surfaces with heavy adhesive adhere to both sides of the gown. Until they are affixed to the gown, they are covered with peel-off strip covering.

Abstract: An article of apparel is disclosed that includes a textile with at least one property that changes upon exposure to a physical stimulus. The textile has a modifiable structure formed from yarns that exhibit a dimensional-transformation upon exposure to the physical stimulus. The yarns have a first set of dimensions when unexposed to the physical stimulus, and the yarns have a second set of dimensions when exposed to the physical stimulus. The structure of the textile is modified by exposing the textile to the physical stimulus such that the yarns transform from the first set of dimensions to the second set of dimensions and change the property of the textile.

Abstract: An article of apparel is disclosed that includes zones with a textile having a structure that changes or is otherwise modified by a physical stimulus, such as the presence of water or a temperature change, to modify a property of the textile. The zones may be along a center back area and side areas of the apparel, and the textile may increase in air permeability when exposed to water. The zones may also be in an upper area of the torso and in a lower back area, and the textile may increase in texture when exposed to water. In some embodiments, slits are formed in the textile.

Abstract: A necktie is disclosed having a knot, the knot having a channel. The necktie has a unitary band, the band being a separate material from the knot. The band has two circumferential segments, each segment being threaded through the channel. Each segment of the band is capable of sliding within the channel. The band is without a clasp on the back outer surface of the knot. The necktie has an elastic textile fabric, within the knot, that is capable of restraining the motion of the band.

Abstract: Described herein are systems and methods that facilitate doffing of protective apparel. The systems and methods employ handwear worn under a glove, such as a disposable fingered glove. The handwear is designed or configured such that when a user doffs the handwear and outer glove, the handwear restrains the glove. When a user pulls the handwear and outer glove inside-out, the inside-out handwear may contain and capture portions of the glove, which reduces exposure by the person to the previously outer (and contaminated) surfaces of the glove.

Abstract: A pair of integrally formed plastic gloves is disclosed, in which the gloves are detachable from each other. A glove dispensing apparatus is also disclosed as including at pins engageable with pairs of plastic gloves.

Abstract: A cycling glove having a hand portion and a sleeve portion that incorporates an integrated latching mechanism situated just above the wrist and underneath the forearm. This latching mechanism has a housing fitted with a pivoting clamp element which, when the rider leans foward to bring the latching mechanism into engagement with the bar, partially encircles the handlebar and rotates with spring loading to provide, in combination with the housing, a clamping connection with the handlebar. To “click off” the handlebar, the rider simply withdraws one arm at a time, releasing the pressure on the clamping element which allows it to return to its at-rest position. The mounting surface of the handlebar is preferably provided with a thin handlebar sleeve for protection from abrasion arising as a result of repeated engagement and disengagement of the latching mechanism.

Abstract: A wetsuit and wetsuit fabric made of a multi-layer laminated fabric material having a plurality of interconnected air channels formed between the fabric layers. The air channels are formed by unattached regions between fabric layers that are otherwise attached such as by gluing. The unattached regions are free to separate from each other and expand in response to pressure from a gas such as air under pressure. The air is preferably introduced through a valve such as by the wearer blowing air into the valve to fill the air channels thereby expanding these “unglued” regions. In a preferred embodiment, the air channels are selectively shaped to form a plurality of adjacent cells, thereby adding to the aesthetic appearance of the wetsuit fabric. These cells may be virtually any shape depending simply on the path chosen for the air channels. The fabric employing expandable air channels may be employed at virtually any location in a wetsuit as well as in accessories such as gloves, boots and hoods.

Abstract: A pair of pregnancy push straps each comprising a first strap forming a loop having a handle means positioned thereon, the first strap for engagement with the hand of the expectant mother via a handle and the opposing end of the loop for engagement with the expectant mother's foot instep when the expectant mother is in a supine position with the thighs substantially vertical and the calves horizontal, there being one push strap associated with each leg and used simultaneously, there further being a second strap forming a loop perpendicularly about the first strap, a portion of the second strap fixedly secured to the first strap and removably secured and adjustable to the first strap for positioning about the ankle of the user.

Abstract: Protective headguard comprising a protective pad and a retention element cooperatively attached to the protective pad wherein the headguard defines at least two separate and distinct, diametrically intersecting and inwardly influenced circumferential lines of retention when worn on the head.

Abstract: A post attachment device for connecting a helmet to a head and neck support. The device includes a post anchor having a base, a button, a resilient member, a post, a retainer and a catch having a slot with a larger first section connected by a channel to a smaller second section. The button is positioned in an indention in the base with the resilient member positioned therebetween. The post extends through the button, the base and the helmet. The retainer is secured on the post adjacent the inner surface of the helmet. To secure the post attachment device, the catch is orientated over the post. The button is then pressed into the base while the catch is moved backwards to move the post into the second section of the slot.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention provides a jock support short including a short member and an integrally-formed jock support member. The integral jock support member includes a pocket portion attached to a front portion of the short, which is configured to house a protective groin cup. At least two elongate members extend along opposing sides of the pocket portion and may intersect or meet at a crotch portion of the short such that the pocket and/or protective cup remains secured over a user's groin region during athletic or other physical activity.

Abstract: A dispenser for either solid or fluid cleaning/conditioning agent for toilet water is described. The source of conditioning agent may be a liquid or a solid which solid has water from the flush tank flow over it. Conditioning liquid flows through a pinhole from a fluid reservoir to a dispensing volume This dispensing volume aliquots the cleaning agent. An air passage is connected to the reservoir and the dispensing volume. Connected to the bottom of the dispensing volume is a siphon with an enlarged outlet funnel. The enlarged outlet funnel has a restricted exit hole. For a dispenser of solid, a dispensing volume of flush water, sucked from an open cup, is passed over a bolus of cleaning agent. This process aliquots the removal of solid from the bolus. The dissolved cleaning agent is stored in a catch trough before it is dispensed through the siphon.

Abstract: A toilet seat device includes a base portion, a toilet seat extending from the base portion in a forward direction, a connecting member fixed at a toilet bowl, at least one hinge member supporting the base portion and the toilet seat, the at least one hinge member lifting up and down the base portion and the toilet seat between the first condition and the second condition, the first condition at which the base portion and the toilet seat are positioned at the toilet bowl substantially in a close contact relation with the toilet bowl, and the second condition at which the base portion and the toilet seat are positioned separately relative to the toilet bowl, and a housing space defined at a bottom surface portion of the base portion and for housing the hinge member therein. The hinge member is housed in the housing space under the first condition.

Abstract: An affordable plumbing device that uses a compressed gas and a burst disk having a relatively even surface of substantially uniform thickness to produce a sudden discharge of energy to forcibly act against any obstruction that may interfere with the proper function of a drain. The plumbing device has a cylindrical chamber for receiving the compressed gas and may generally take the shape of a plunger, which is flexible to use and is easy to store. A portion of the chamber forms a receiving chamber with the burst disk for harnessing and directing the energy of the compressed gas to clear the drain.

Abstract: An insert assembly for mounting in a shower or bath comprises a retaining ring comprising an engaging structure and an integral retaining flange, and having a retaining ring opening having an internal surface with retaining ring threads; a drain plug comprising a connecting structure and an integral holding flange, and having a drain plug opening and drain plug threads which engage the retaining ring threads; and a shower or bath insert, a portion of the insert being sandwiched between the holding flange and the retaining flange. A drain assembly comprises a retaining ring, a drain plug and a base having a drain structure to which the retaining ring is secured. There is also provided a method of mounting an insert assembly in a shower or bath.

Abstract: A lighting system for use with an above-ground swimming pool includes a water access fixture extending through an aperture in the pool wall, for connection with the pool circulation system; and incorporates a sealed light assembly with a translucent cover; secured in depending adjoined, unitary relation with the access fixture. An extended electrical power cord connects with an external power supply and the light assembly, enabling removal of the light assembly from beneath the water, for repair or replacement. A rectifier/transformer 12-volt supply serves the planar array of LED lights, which may be R/G/B and programmed to give a spectrum of coloured lights.

Abstract: A device for winterizing pools comprises a compartment including a front portion having a periphery defining a first opening. An upper portion of the compartment defines a second opening. The periphery is to sealingly engage a wall of a swimming pool such that the first opening surrounds a return line aperture defined by the wall of the swimming pool. The second opening defined by the upper portion is to be disposed above a water level of the swimming pool. A pump is to be disposed within the compartment, and is energized by, for example, a DC power supply. A conduit includes a first end to be coupled to an outlet of the pump and includes a second end to be disposed outside of the compartment and adjacent to the upper portion thereof for directing fluid out of the compartment.

Abstract: A water equipment attachment apparatus. The water attachment equipment apparatus provides a means to attach water equipment such as ladders, handrails, sports equipment, chairs and other equipment into a containing structure of a contained body of water such as swimming pool, fountain, decretive pond, etc. including a flexible material liner such as a vinyl liner. The water attachment equipment apparatus can be attached to a top, side or bottom of the containing structure of contained body of water through the vinyl liner without leaking and provides structural support for any attached water equipment.

Abstract: A pedicure spa chair base for use with any seat, which chair base has a basin having a raised area and a lowered area therein, the raised area having a pair of mirror image footrest sections separated by a part of the lowered section which part has the drain for the basin therein. The lowered area of the basin has a horizontally disposed water jet forwardly of each footrest. Each footrest also includes a forwardly disposed extension, adjacent each respective water jet. Other conventional components including a seat mount are found on the chair base.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for heating water for relaxing sore muscles in isolated areas of the body. Briefly described, in architecture, the system includes a basin that has a plurality of basin openings. The basin openings include at least one inflow opening and at least one outflow opening. A flow tube, which is substantially exterior to the basin, connects the inflow and outflow openings. A heating element is located substantially within the flow tube.

Abstract: Described are devices, systems, and methods for blocking or impeding the flow of fluid through the overflow drain of a bathtub. A device may include a stopper configured to be removably held in place by water pressure or buoyancy only when water level in the bathtub is above at least one overflow opening. The stopper may include a body defining an internal arcuate surface configured to cover the at least one overflow opening. A system may include: a cover plate comprising at least one overflow opening in one of an annular skirt and a domed portion; and a stopper comprising a body defining an internal arcuate surface, the stopper removably held in place by fluid pressure or buoyancy only. A method may include: covering at least one overflow opening with a stopper; and removably holding the stopper in place by fluid pressure or buoyancy only.

Abstract: The disclosure generally describes a sofa convertible into a bed. In one embodiment, the sofa includes a support and guide structure, a mattress that is movable relative to the support and guide structure. The sofa can be moved between a bed configuration and a sofa configuration. In the bed configuration, the mattress has a bearing surface which extends horizontally. In the sofa configuration an upper portion of the mattress is folded upwards relative to a lower portion of the mattress. In addition, the bearing surface of the upper portion of the mattress forms the bearing surface of a backrest against for supporting the back of a person in a seated position.

Abstract: A device having a flexible elongated support member having an upperside, an underside, and a first and second extension on either side of a central-portion, each of the first and second extensions have a free-end. A first and second strap portion affixed to and extending from the upperside between the free-ends of the support member. These strap portions are employed for positioning around the mass. A mateable first and second coupling is attached to a free end-section of each of the first and second strap portions. The strap portions may be adjustable in length with each respective coupling being slidably attached to its respective free end-section. Extending from the underside of the support member and along each of the first and second extensions, is a respective first and second plurality of handles affixed to at least the underside. Also, a method of lifting to carry a mass employing a device comprising a flexible elongated support member characterized herein.

Abstract: A baby mat comprising a top surface, a bottom surface, and an inner layer, one surface having an imprint of a ruler for measuring the height of a baby. The mat is usually bordered at its peripheral edges by various known methods to keep the inner layer intact between the top and bottom surfaces and to prevent the fabric from frilling. The mat provides a good media for recording vital information about a baby and for advertising, as well. A compartment or a bag for holding baby accessories and personal items may be incorporated into or with the mat. The mat is preferably made of washable and reusable materials and is of such thickness to allow the mat to be folded or rolled for easy storage.

Abstract: A module of a support apparatus (5) of a medical examination and treatment device, in particular of a magnetic resonance device (3), comprises the following features: a base unit (52) and a support unit (54) to support an examination object (1), which can travel in the horizontal direction in respect of the base unit (52), and a bracket unit (70) acting between the base unit (52) and the support unit (54), it being possible to move said bracket unit (70) against the base unit (52) and the support unit (54) and with which the support unit (54) can travel beyond the base unit (52).

Abstract: An imaging tomography apparatus, such as an x-ray computed tomography apparatus or a magnetic resonance tomography apparatus, has a patient bed that can be driven into a tunnel-shaped or annular data acquisition device. To increase comfort for the patient and accessibility by medical personnel, the patient bed has a pivotable backrest connected to a seat.

Abstract: An ambulance cot load wheel assisting device configured to effect a lifting of the axis of rotation of the load wheel to a location sufficiently above the floor surface of the cargo area of the ambulance to enable it to roll onto the floor surface in response to the attendant merely pushing the cot into the cargo area.

Abstract: A sleep surface is formed by joining longitudinal sides of two juxtaposed air bladders, thereby providing a continuous sleep surface having two independently inflatable air chambers. The union of the two bladders ensures that the bladders remain in a desired position despite being repeated inflated, deflated, folded and unfolded.

Abstract: An alternating pad comprises a first set and a second set of alternately inflatable cells. Both sets of inflatable cells are supplied with air from a pump via a rotary valve. A sensor is positioned under the pad to receive pressure exerted by a patient upon movement and to be compressible relative to the applied pressure. Any change in patient position or movement will cause an alteration in the airflow in the sensor pad tube and will reduce or increase the differential pressure measured at the pressure transducer. Based on this feedback the microprocessor directly controls the power level to the pump and increases or decreases the air flow to the cells to alter the amplitude of the cells and also controls the timing of the rotary valve to change the timing of the inflation and deflation cycle.

Abstract: A fabric treatment composition that includes at least one zeta potential modifier and a hydrophobic agent with a melting point or glass transition temperature below 100° C. that imparts fabric protection benefits, including improved stain and soil resistance, oil repellency, water repellency, softness, wrinkle and damage resistance, and better handfeel to treated fabrics. Particularly preferred compositions include at least one zeta potential modifier in an amount sufficient to adjust the zeta potential of the composition to be positive and greater than zero millivolts. Particularly preferred compositions also include a fluoropolymer. The composition can be used as a pretreatment prior to washing, through soaking or direct spray application, or added to the treatment liquor, that is either the wash or rinse cycle of an automatic washing machine, or used prior to or during the drying cycle of an automatic drying machine or refresher machine, or used prior to or in conjunction with an ironing device.

Abstract: A method and system for cleaning textile absorbers that can be recycled. The system includes the use of a particular cleaning fluid, n-propyl bromide, to clean the textile absorbers for reuse. The system may also include a removal component in which excess extraneous substances are removed from the textile absorbers prior to cleaning the textile absorbers.

Abstract: A washing machine with a self-cleaning spinner top is provided to remove lint and prevent soap scum buildup. The self-cleaning spinner top includes a reservoir and an upper wall. A water inlet routes a portion of incoming water to the spinner top's reservoir. This water is retained until a spin cycle begins. During a spin cycle, centrifugal force extracts the water in the reservoir, causing it to flow over the upper wall to an outer tub. A deflector on top of the outer tub ensures no water escapes and routes the water to the outer tub. The reservoir water that is extracted during the spin cycle also carries with it any lint or soap particles to prevent a build up condition. In this manner, a clean spinner top may be maintained.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for an improved washing machine having a tilt-out laundry assembly. The tilt-out action is achieved by a tiltable joint between the side of the laundry assembly and front standing struts. The tiltable joint permits a laundry assembly to rotate about the front standing struts once rear struts are removed from the rear side of the laundry assembly. In use, the service person removes the rear struts, tilts the laundry assembly about the front standing struts, and then removes the laundry assembly from the cabinet.

Abstract: A method for accelerating the wetting of washing in the variable-speed drum of a drum washing machine. A quantity of fresh water is introduced according to the determined quantity of laundry. The drum is driven at intervals and in a reversing manner in successive phases for a first determined length of time at an rpm which is adapted to the washing. The drum is stopped and/or driven at an rpm adapted to the wetting of the washing for a second pre-determined length of time, such that the water is especially effectively distributed over the washing by means of ladling devices located on the drum. The required quantity of washing liquid for the following washing phase is determined once the drum is driven at intervals and in a reversing manner at an rpm adapted to the washing after the second pre-determined length of time has come to an end.

Abstract: A clothes washing machine system and control methods. The washing machine system includes a cabinet having a drum rotatably mounted therein. A motor is coupled to the drum for rotating the drum within the cabinet. A memory device is accessible by a processor, such as a digital signal processor (DSP). The memory contains program code for implementing a method that includes determining the end of the washing machine's spin cycle by monitoring a parameter of the washing machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a dye composition comprising a direct dye consisting of different chromophores, the dye having a particular L*a*b* value. The invention also relates to the dyeing process using this composition and to the use of this composition for dyeing keratin fibers. These compositions in particular make it possible to obtain particularly fast colorations.

Abstract: The hair-coloring compositions described comprise one or more anthraquinone compounds of the formula I where R1, R2 and R3 each independently represent hydrogen, linear or branched alkyl having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, linear or branched alkenyl having 2 to 22 carbon atoms or N(R4)C(O)R5; R4 and R5 independently represent hydrogen or alkyl having 1 to 22 carbon atoms; X represents SO3A1 or OCH2CH2(OCH2CH2)xOCH3; Y is H or SO3A2; A1 and A2 each independently represent H+, Li+, Na+, K+, Mg2+/2, Ca2+/2, Al3+/3 or +NR6R7R8R9; R6, R7, R8, R9 each independently represent hydrogen, alkyl having 1 to 22 carbon atoms or hydroxyalkyl having 2 to 10 carbon atoms, and x represents a number from 0 to 10; wherein the compounds of the formula I comprise exactly one group selected from SO3A1 and SO3A2.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a composition for dyeing keratin fibers, for instance human keratin fibers such as the hair, comprising, in a medium that is suitable for dyeing keratin fibers, at least one oxidation dye precursor, at least one alcohol oxidase enzyme, at least one substrate for the enzyme and at least one anionic associative polymer. The disclosure further relates to a process for dyeing keratin fibers, comprising applying the composition as disclosed, and also to a dyeing “kit”.

Abstract: Use of at least one transition metal coordination compound for improving the light fastness of dyed polyester material. The transition metal coordination compound may be used together with diperse dyes.

Abstract: A method of dyeing a blend of modacrylic fiber and aramid fiber employing a cationic dye and dye assistant employs a concentration of dye assistants not greater than 10 grams per liter of dye bath.

Abstract: It is the objective of the present invention to disclose a method of continuously dyeing durable nonwoven fabrics, and more specifically, nonwoven fabrics comprising a cellulosic fibrous material dyed with indigo dyestuffs. It is in accordance with the present invention, to utilize synthetic fibers in combination with natural or cellulosic fibers in the formation of a nonwoven web. The natural fibers, preferably cotton, make up at least 10% of the fibrous nonwoven fabric.

Abstract: Foreign material is dislodged from a hard to reach region of an object by passing a rigid elongated tubular guide in close proximity to the hard to reach region. The upper tip of the guide is bent so that it can be directed at the hard to reach region and a wire is passed through the guide into the hard to reach region. The lower portion of the wire that extends outwardly from the bottom of the guide and the wire is rotated at a speed sufficient to dislodge unwanted foreign material from the hard to reach region.

Abstract: Magnetic levitation technology is incorporated in a toothbrush to supply power useable to power movable cleaning elements, emit light or sound and other functions. Power is generated by merely shaking the toothbrush.

Abstract: The head of a powered toothbrush includes a first tuft block mounted for rotational oscillation about an axis generally perpendicular to the outer surface of the head, and a second tuft block having fixed bristles or bristles independently movable by being mounted on an elastomeric base. The second tuft block oscillates perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the head and in an in and out direction perpendicular to the outer surface of the head. A third stationary block may also be mounted on the head of the powered toothbrush. The bristles on the first, second, and third tuft blocks may be of various lengths, colors and stiffness, and may be mounted perpendicularly to or at an angle to the outer surface of the head.

Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus comprising a cleaning body and collection compartment for accumulating debris retrieved from a surface to be cleaned. The collection compartment is located in a front portion of the cleaning apparatus. A handle is pivotably connected to a rear portion of the cleaning body of the surface cleaning apparatus opposite the first end portion. A rotatable elongate brush arrangement is provided between the collection compartment and the rear portion. A motor for rotating the brush arrangement is provided between the brush arrangement and the rear portion of the cleaning body.

Abstract: The scented roller to remove loose hairs from exposed skin surfaces has a solid, elongated handle with a distal end and a proximal end that allows a user to comfortably grasp the scented roller. A connecting fork is located at the proximal end of the handle, and a roller is removably placed in the connecting fork with a roll of adhesive tape disposed on the roller. The roll of adhesive tape has an exposed adhesive outer surface to collect and hold cut hair and debris from an exposed dirty surface. The tape has a scent or fragrance on the scented roller.

Abstract: A disposable toilet bowl cleaning implement for discarding after one use, towards eliminating problems associated with the sanitary storage of toilet bowl cleaning products, said implement having a handle in the form of an elongated member with a reinforcement ridge extending along at least a substantial portion of the length of handle projecting in the direction transversely to the width of the handle. A scrubbing element is folded at least once upon itself to create a juxtaposed surface to surface contact over a substantial portion thereof to which an adhesive may be applied. A fastener further attaches the handle and the scrubbing element.

Abstract: A mop includes an elongated handle portion, a movable member slidably mounted on the handle portion, a rotary motor disposed in at least one of the elongated handle portion and the movable member, a controller in electrical communication with the motor and an associated power source, and a mop head. The controller regulates power to the motor as a function of a number of rotations of the motor. The mop head is detachably connected to at least one of the elongated handle portion and the movable member. The mop head is selectively connected to the motor.