Abstract: a multi-function item of bodily use in the form of a measuring towel (10) of a cloth type material in the form of a conventional towel (12) including measuring means as by one or more measuring strips or tapes (14) having regular markings of any known measuring system. the towel (12) of the preferred embodiment includes two measuring strips (3.1 and 14.2) in the form of measuring tapes extending along the towel edge (12.1 and 12.3). The strips (14) can be integrally formed with the towel during the manufacture or be secured to a manufactured towel. The towel (10) is thus useable to measure appropriate body measurements such as the waistline, length of a limb or another desired measurement of a person. Measurement may be made simply by holding towel (12) against the body and lengthwise or circumferentially fitting along or around the location where the bodily measurement is desired, such that the measuring strip (14) runs closely along the distance to be measured.

Abstract: The present invention provides a peripheral surface shape measuring apparatus of a roll-like object which measures a peripheral surface shape of the roll-like object such as a magnetic tape bulk roll, comprising a pair of receiving portions on which both ends of a core of the roll-like object are placed, a receiving portion horizontally moving device which moves the pair of receiving portions in an axial direction of the roll-like object, a receiving portion vertically moving device which moves up and down the pair of receiving portions, a position sensor having a probe with a tip urged in a direction of abutting against a surface of the roll-like object to measure the peripheral surface shape of the roll-like object and a sensor moving device which moves the position sensor in the axial direction of the roll-like object.

Abstract: Touch probe for a machine for measuring coordinates, including a contact feeler (12), relatively mobile relatively to a fixed organ (1) and held in a defined and repeatable resting position by a spring (21). The probe comprises an electric circuit to detect the displacements of the feeler (12). The resting position is defined by six contact points distributed around the axis of the feeler to obtain a uniform sensitivity to lateral forces.

Abstract: The invention called a Framer's Tape Hook is a modification of a tape hook, which is attached to a retractable tape measure. The modification adds the capacity to offset the tape hook by ½ the thickness of any framing member. The purpose of this modification is to mark the edge locations of wall studs, floor and ceiling joist, rafters, and trusses. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend ¾ of an inch for dimension lumber. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend ? of an inch for LGS, or light gauge steel studs. The Framer's Tape Hook can extend 1¼ inches for 2½ inch wide strapping. The Framer's Tape Hook can be set, to accommodate any stud, joist, or rafter size. The Framer's Tape Hook adds speed and accuracy when marking layout, whether it is a 16 inch on-center layout, 24 inch on-center layout, or any other desired layout.

Abstract: A clothing dryer including: a housing; an exhaust pipe; a first fixing bracket disposed at the exhaust pipe; and a second fixing bracket disposed at the bottom of the housing, the first fixing bracket being fitable in the second fixing bracket. The exhaust pipe is fixed without using an additional fixing member, whereby assembly and disassembly of the clothing dryer are accomplished.

Abstract: A low temperature clothes dryer having a drying chamber provides removable horizontal screens supporting clothing items and a hanging bar for hanging clothes to be dried. A timing control allows setting the time of operation of the drying cabinet. An electric heater with thermostat is provided to initially raise and maintain the air temperature within the drying chamber to at least about 90 degrees F. The dehumidifier is then operated, providing for circulation through the ducts and drying cabinet by an internal fan. The dehumidifier has an evaporator through which warm, humid air is passed, thereby cooling the air and condensing water therefrom, the water being collected in a removable container or drained through a drain hose. The fan forces the cooled, dried air through a condenser which heats the dried air for recirculation through the drying chamber by means of ducts, thereby drying the clothing therein.

Abstract: A system for reclaiming effluent from a freeze drying process has at least one condenser apparatus used during a freeze-drying cycle to collect effluent from material being freeze-dried, and a recovery reservoir positioned for collecting material from the condenser apparatus. The system is characterized in that ice crystals formed from the effluent are removed from the condenser after the freeze drying cycle into recovery reservoir to be re-used. Product systems include both freeze-dried material and the effluent collected during freeze drying.

Abstract: A clothes dryer and a method of displaying a drying time on the clothes dryer by determining a predicted drying time considering an ambient temperature of the clothes dryer and displaying the predicted drying time corresponding to the ambient temperature. Also, a clothes dryer and which displays the predicted drying time by determining a drying state of an object to be dried, and adjusting the predicted drying time based upon the drying state of object to be dried.

Abstract: A clothing dryer and a method of assembling clothing dryer. The clothing dryer includes: a housing forming an external appearance of the clothing dryer; a drying tub rotatably mounted in the housing; an exhaust pipe discharging air from the drying tub out of the clothing dryer; an opening formed at the rear surface of the housing and configured such that internal components mounted in the housing can be easily accessed from the opening; and a rear cover closing the opening.

Abstract: An accessory for altering the appearance of footwear is disclosed and comprises a support portion and a decorative portion. The support portion comprising a loop that is circumferentially resiliently stretchable and that has axially opposite first and second openings. The loop is adapted and configured in a manner such that the loop can stretchably encircle a leg of a person in a manner releasably securing the support portion to the leg of the person. The decorative portion is connected to the loop in a manner such that the decorative portion encircles the loop adjacent the first opening and such that the decorative portion extends radially outward from the loop of the support portion. A method of altering the appearance of footwear is also disclosed.

Abstract: An insole rib comprising a rib and a fabric. The rib has serrations along an upper edge thereof. A material surrounds a portion of the rib such that the upper serrated edge of the rib is exposed.

Abstract: A sole component for footwear combining the desirable response characteristics of a fluid filled chamber and an elastomeric material. The chamber can be formed as a single bladder chamber in contact with an elastomeric midsole, or a single chamber formed by a sealing a void in elastomeric material. The interface between the chamber and elastomeric material is sloped and gradual so that the shape of the chamber and its placement in a midsole determine the combination of response characteristics in the sole component. The chamber has a relatively simple shape with one axis of symmetry with a rounded portion and a narrow portion.

Abstract: A sole for shoes particularly for practicing sports, comprising a sole body that forms, at at least one perimetric portion, a recessed region for detachably accommodating at least one pad, which is provided with a first wing that overlaps the recessed region and with a second wing that forms a lateral rising portion that can be arranged so as to protect an outer profile of the shoe.

Abstract: An article of footwear includes a sole assembly and an upper secured to the sole assembly. A sole plate is positioned between the upper and the sole assembly. The sole plate includes a midfoot member comprising a medial member having a base plate and at least one medial pillar extending upwardly from a medial edge of the base plate; with the base plate having a substantially planar finger extending forwardly and configured to extend under a foot of a user; and a lateral member having at least one lateral pillar extending upwardly from a lateral edge thereof. A forefoot member has at least one finger extending upwardly along an exterior surface of the upper.

Abstract: A shoe cleat with improved traction includes a hub with an exposed surface facing away from the shoe sole when the cleat is secured to the shoe, at least one traction element extending from the hub in a direction away from the exposed surface of the hub, and a cleat connector extending from a surface of the hub opposing the exposed surface and securable within a receptacle of the shoe. The cleat connector is positioned on the hub such that the radial distance defined between the hub perimeter and a central axis of the cleat connector differs at varying locations along the hub perimeter in order to facilitate different orientations of the hub with respect to the shoe sole when the cleat is secured to the shoe.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for spreading ballast along railways makes use of an inertial measurement system to determine where to apply ballast from a hopper car. A variety of techniques can be used to determine the location and speed of the ballast spreading train, including manual or automated visual techniques, laser technology, radar technology, radio frequency transponders, magnetic sensor, thermal imaging and aerial photogrammetry. The invention also contemplates “on the fly” surveys and terrain profiling using lasers or radar.

Abstract: A filter vent device is provided for a cabinet dryer having a steam generator for supplying steam to the drying chamber. A water reservoir supplies water to the steam generator via a water hose. The filter vent device is disposed in the water reservoir or tank and includes a water passage with a filter to prevent foreign particles or matter from passing into the hose, thereby preventing clogging. The filter vent device also includes an air passage to allow the escape of air from the water hose, thereby preventing vapor lock. The filter vent device is removably mounted in the water reservoir or tank and has a one-piece construction.

Abstract: A carrier sleeve (32) surrounds a post (14) that extends upwardly from a base (12). A lower platen (18) is mounted on the base (12). A horizontal support arm (16) is mounted on the upper portion of the post (14) An upper platens (20) is mounted on the support arm (16) above the lower platen (18). A work piece support (26) is mounted on the post (14) between the upper and lower platens (18, 20). The work piece support (26) is connected to the carrier sleeve (32) and is movable up and down along the post (14). A spring (36) is positioned below the carrier sleeve (32) between the carrier sleeve (32) and a portion of the base (12). In a relaxed condition, the spring (36) holds the work piece support (26) in a position that is vertically between the upper and lower platens (18, 20) when the upper platen (20 is raised. The upper platen (20) is movable downwardly into contact with the work piece support (26).

Abstract: A fastening device for fastening the cuff of an item of clothing on a device for pressing the item of clothing includes a base plate and a swing-action mechanism. The swing-action mechanism is fastened on the base plate and its pivot pin runs parallel to the ends of the cuff that is to be clamped in.

Abstract: An electric iron including a housing; a soleplate connected to the housing; a heater for heating the soleplate; a fluid holding system connected to the housing, the fluid holding system including a first fluid reservoir; and a second water only reservoir connected to the soleplate; and a fluid dispensing system for dispensing fluid from the first reservoir and for dispensing water from the second reservoir. The fluid dispensing system includes a spray nozzle connected to the housing and a pump connecting the first reservoir to the spray nozzle. The fluid dispensing system is adapted to dispense fluid from the first reservoir only through the spray nozzle and only without addition of water from the second reservoir.

Abstract: An electric iron having a housing (1) and a soleplate (2) in which at least one outlet opening (10;15;34;45) is provided, means (8;19;28;39;43) for generating a fine liquid spray or foam or steam, and means (5) for delivering said generated fine liquid spray or foam or steam through said outlet opening. According to the invention, the iron is provided with detection means (12,14;22,23;35,36;49) for detecting the presence of a surface (7a) in the proximity of the sloplate (2) and for generating a detection signal in response to said detection, and with control means (6) for controlling the delivery of said fine liquid spray or foam or steam in response of said detection signal. For example, the detection means comprise a movable spring-loaded contact element (12) located in the soleplate (2), said element (12) activating a switch (14) for generating said signal when the soleplate is positioned against said surface (7a) and thus depresses said element (12).

Abstract: A handheld iron for pressing or creasing an article of fabric without the use of an ironing board. The handheld iron having a housing, a platform, and an actuator for displacing the platform with respect to the housing. The housing further includes a heating surface and the platform further includes a platform surface. The heating surface and the platform surface are in substantially parallel planes at all times, including when the platform is displaced with respect to the housing.

Abstract: A handheld iron for pressing or creasing an article of fabric without the use of an ironing board. The handheld iron having a housing, a platform, and an actuator for displacing the platform with respect to the housing. The housing further includes a heating surface and the platform further includes a platform surface. The heating surface and the platform surface are in substantially parallel planes at all times, including when the platform is displaced with respect to the housing.

Abstract: Pressing iron having a soleplate (1) presenting an ironing surface and a periphery having three vertices (P1, P2, P3) presenting different angles. Two of the vertices (P1, P2) of the soleplate are, on the one hand, connected together by a convex curve delimiting one edge (C) of the soleplate (1) and, on the other hand, are connected to the third point (P3) by substantially straight or slightly convex curves delimiting other edges (D1, D2) of the soleplate (1).

Abstract: There is provided an intelligent luggage protection pouch according to the invention that is tamper resistant, easily identifiable, and inspection friendly (i.e. x-ray and canine searchable). The intelligent luggage protection pouch fully surrounds luggage, protects against damage to the surface of the luggage, withstands the weight of any luggage placed within it, and prevents loss of the contents of the luggage. The intelligent luggage protection pouch does not require specialized machines, tools, or knowledge. Preferably, the intelligent luggage protection pouch is disposable, environmentally friendly, and universally sized to accommodate luggage of almost any size and shape. The intelligent luggage protection pouch may be included in a kit.

Abstract: A calendar holder, wherein a calendar can be held by a retainer, which eliminates insertion of a fixing member into a structure again and again when the calendar includes many pages, e.g. for each month. This avoids damage to the structure and enhances the appearance of the structure. The calendar holder for placing on a structure includes a holder body that is hung from the structure. The holder body includes at least a retainer that holds the calendar.

Abstract: A Multiple Business Card Holder includes a plurality of support walls nailed together forming a framed apparatus. Horizontal and vertical dividers are used for separating interior space of said apparatus whereby multiple compartments are contained within one body. Said compartments are of significant size for displaying a set of business cards in stacked position, laying flat, with back side of said cards facing downward, providing an unobstructed view for information contained on front of said card.

Abstract: A method and assembly for greeting card display including forming the greeting card with a removable card-holding region having at least a pair of slots. The removable region may be separated from the greeting card and folded as well as unfolded to define a greeting card display assembly. The greeting card itself is inserted into the slots of the partially unfolded removable region of the display for the support of the card in a variety of positions.

Abstract: A tamper resistant locking mechanism has a cylinder-lock receiver that is fixedly attached to an object frame that holds an object a user desires to be secured. An example of the object frame is the license plate frame. Other object frames include a frame for a painting or other work of art. The cylinder lock receiver is formed such that it has a depth that is sufficient so that the head of cylinder lock is recessed within cylinder lock receiver. A license plate frame incorporates the tamper resistant locking mechanism.

Abstract: A glare resistant display for automotive vehicles has a lens with horizontal grooves which deflect reflections of external light sources, such as sun light, away from drivers while allowing illumination from behind the lens to pass therethrough so as to be visible to drivers. Indicia is disposed on the front face of the lens and a pointer pivots behind the front face. The indicia and pointer are made distinct because they block or absorb portions of the illumination coming from behind the lens. By utilizing lenses which minimize reflection, dials of instrument panels can be moved further toward steering wheels and drivers, thereby releasing space behind the dials for other uses.

Abstract: Display devices for, e.g., advertising purposes, are provided wherein at least one member slides relative to at least one other member to a “reveal” position so as to display new and different information. In one embodiment, two sheath members move relative to a slide member while in another, two slide members move relative to a sheath member. In another embodiment, cutouts or windows are provided which reveal different information in different positions of the movable member or members of the device.

Abstract: An illuminated sign includes a plurality of sections. Each section includes a mesh of conductors having illuminating pixels located at conductor intersections. The mesh is surrounded by a frame connected to the frame of another section. Once frame sections of the display are unfolded, the display can be supported by a structure attached to a car or other vehicle. A support structure for an illuminated display includes a base which is placed on the ground and over which the tire of a vehicle (e.g., a police car) is parked. A column extends from the base, and a display can be attached to the top of that extending column. The support structure can take the form of a collapsible stand having a trunk which is pivotally attached to a base and which contains a telescoping section.

Abstract: A replaceable bill box includes a light housing, a light source disposed in the light housing, and a replaceable poster cover sized and shaped to fit the front side of the light housing for allowing the light from the light source passing therethrough, wherein the replaceable poster cover. A magnetic mounting arrangement includes a plurality of first magnetic elements spacedly provided on the peripheral rim of the light housing and a plurality of second magnetic elements spacedly provided on the mounting edge of the detachable poster cover to respectively align with the first magnetic elements, wherein the first magnetic elements are magnetically attached to the second magnetic elements respectively to detachably mount the replaceable poster cover in front of the light housing, such that the replaceable poster cover forms an interchangeable advertising board adapted for being replaced with another the replaceable poster cover on the light housing.

Abstract: A store security device with advertising cover includes a store security system for detecting magnetic tags attached to merchandise. The security device includes a magnetic sensor mounted in a frame attached to a base. A cover having first and second side panels joined together at their side and/or top edges is sized and shaped to fit slidably over the frame. The cover includes an aperture for the sensor or is fabricated from material that does not interfere with its operation. Advertising or promotional material is affixed to at least one of the first and second side panels. The side panels may include one or more pockets for dispensing promotional materials. The side panels may include one or more receptacles having a transparent outer wall. These receptacles are sized and shaped to hold removable printed advertising or promotional sheets. The receptacles have an open top or side and a closed bottom.

Abstract: A cushioned wristband includes a carrier having a multi-layered band portion and a strap sewn to the back of the band portion of the carrier. The band has a surface with loop material and the strap has a surface of hook material, the hook and loop surfaces being intended to secure the band in place as it is wrapped about a patient's appendage. The strap is appropriately sized to insert through one or both of two cinch slots of a self-laminating hang tag which may be printed with patient information and separated from a sheetlet or page sized business form processed through a printer for imaging of patient information thereon. The band portion of the carrier includes a cushioned layer of soft foamy or spongy material for contacting a patient's skin to thereby substantially eliminate any possibility for abrasion, rash, or other irritation or injury to the patient through wearing of the wristband.

Abstract: A transparent plant tag is provided. The tag can be used with any desired plant, including potted plants and flowers. The tag and allows for viewing of a plant, through the tag, when the tag is positioned near a plant. The tag comprises a transparent upper portion having indicia thereon providing information related to the plant, and a bottom portion for insertion into soil to position the tag. The indicia on the upper portion can include an image of the mature plant or flower.

Abstract: A tool for cleaning and loading muzzle loading rifles includes a tube having a longitudinal axis and a centered throughbore along the axis. The tube includes a head having a knurled outer surface and a front face recess. The recess is adapted to center and support the projectile. A shaft is mounted in the throughbore of the tube and protrudes out of the back of the tube, wherein the diameter of the shaft is less than the diameter of the throughbore. Accordingly, when the shaft is fixed to a cleaning rod, the tube is free to rotate on the shaft.

Abstract: The mounting assembly for securing an accessory to a firearm. The accessory has a body with an undercarriage portion which is shaped to matingly receive at least a portion of the undercarriage of the firearm, a trigger guard portion shaped to engage at least a portion of the trigger guard firearm and a firearm connector portion which is constructed of a resilient deformable material which forms a snap-fit with a portion of the firearm in order to secure the body to the firearm. The body also has an accessory connector portion shaped to secure an accessory to the body.

Abstract: A collapsible decoy 10, including two generally planar side body panels 11, 12 allowing the decoy 10 to be collapsed into a substantially flat configuration and which are splayed when in the erected position, a head and neck portion 14 connected to at least one of the side body panels 11, 12, and a means for retaining the side body panels 11, 12, when in use, in the erected position.

Abstract: An illuminated fish hook utilizing a self contained lithium polymer battery and light unit, preferably an LED, permanently attached to the hook, and which may be provided with an on/off switch.

Abstract: An illuminated fish hook has a self-contained lithium polymer battery and light unit, preferably an LED, permanently attached thereto. The light unit is provided with an on/off switch. In an alternative embodiment the light unit is inserted directly, or a capsule containing the light unit is inserted, in a translucent fish lure.

Abstract: An armband fishing pole holder for stabilizing a fishing pole in use or while traveling on an individual includes a strap which encircles the arm of an individual; and a hook attached to said strap. The holder can further include a fastening loop at one end of the strap. The holder can be provided with a buckle on end of the strap and hook and fastener material on an opposite end of the strap. The hook can be position on the holder to curve in the direction of he vertical axis of the strap. The hook can be position on the holder to curve in the direction of an acute angle from the vertical axis of said strap.

Abstract: The variable weight diamond jig fishing lure has a jig body with an elongated diamond shape, having a greater length than width, with eyes formed into the opposing longitudinal ends for attachment to a fishing line and a fishhook, respectively. The jig body is formed from two symmetrical plates having their central portions stamped, molded, or otherwise formed outward to form a central chamber or cavity for receiving a weight or ballast. Slots are formed in the plates between the cavity and the eye. A lock plate having an eye defined in one end and a lock tab attached by a tang depending from the opposite end are inserted through the slots and rotated to lock opposing ends of the jig body together.

Abstract: A fishing bobber incorporates a heating element in the interior thereof that is adapted to be supplied with current from an external power pack by way of a water impervious plug and jack connection. When used in ice fishing applications, the heated bobber functions to keep the water from refreezing in the ice hole. When a fish strikes and drags the bobber down into the water, the plug and jack separate so that the battery pack and lead wires are not dragged into the ice hole.

Abstract: A hook-setting device, including a flange that is fixed and generally transverse to a fishing line or leader, is adapted to resist the force of a fish strike on a hook or fly and to also indicate a strike by its movement in the water. The flange preferably floats at or near the top of the water, in a partially-submerged position, with a generally concave front surface facing the hook or fly. The front surface forms an open cup-shape that partially or completely fills with water, thereby providing resistance to the flange being pulled through the water and thereby setting the hook/fly in the fish's mouth. The preferred flange also features a generally convex rear surface facing away from the hook or fly, which rear surface is the leading surface during fly-casting, reducing air resistance during the cast and contributing to proper laying-out of the fly at the end of the cast.

Abstract: A box for storing flies used for fishing including a cover assembly having two dish-like cover portions, each of which cover portions includes a central wall part, and side wall parts around the periphery of the central wall part projecting generally in the same direction away from the central wall part and having a continuous distal edge portion; and a hinge having hinge portions attached to the side wall parts adjacent second sides of the central wall parts. The hinge affords pivotal movement of the cover portions between a closed position with the distal edge portions of the cover portions opposed to, closely spaced from, and generally aligned with each other, and an open position with the distal edge portions spaced away from and out of alignment with each other.

Abstract: A floatable fish box for spear fishing that has a hollow interior holding area, an elevated hatch with spear fishing flag stickers thereon, a sealed latched lid, a spool for either anchor line or spear line, holders for spear guns, handles, and wheels for ease of moving on dry ground.

Abstract: A collapsible live bait container constructed of a vinyl coated fabric mesh. The mesh is sewn over one or more flexibly resilient stays. A foam flotation member or buoyant stays can be secured to the enclosure walls. Resealing access ports are defined with strips of hook and loop fasteners, zippers or a fabric sleeve and drawstring. Several storage compartments can be provided with permanent or detachable walls or pockets.

Abstract: A one way rodent trap, with an internal chamber, gated by a plunger and a slot, making use of the rodents strength to open the aperture large enough for it to go through, and when in the chamber, makes it impossible to exit. This device made of injected, molded, plastic, consisting of only two basic parts, is produced, and maintained, economically. An assembly that does not require any fastener or other fastening means. A device which traps the rodent, by humane means, and has an astucious, injected molded, design which integrates moveable parts molded into the trap. Such a trap has a top hinged door with a latching mechanism, for easy and safe removal of the live rodent.

Abstract: The present invention is an insect emergence trap that is substantially pyramidal shaped. The trap of the invention is adapted to withstand wet outdoor conditions by being more durable while also being relatively simple to assemble and cost effective.