Abstract: An impact device and method for use in incapacitating an opponent. The device mounts on the lower part of the leg and is used by kicking the opponent with the impact device. A police version of the device has a rounded surface for exerting a measured blow on the opponent while a military version has a cutting edge for cutting the opponent. The device may be covered and obscured by the pant leg of the user.

Abstract: A garment (20) to be worn by a patient (22) during endoscopy is cut and sized to fit snugly around a pelvic area of the patient, such that when the garment (20) is worn by the patient (22), the fabric defines two leg holes and an aperture (28), which is positioned adjacent to a body orifice of the patient (22) so as to permit insertion of an endoscope (40) through the aperture (28) into the body orifice.

Abstract: A sports glove comprising a palm side, a dorsal side positioned opposite the palm side, and a plurality of interchangeable protection sections positioned on the dorsal side. Each interchangeable protection section includes a removable attachment engaging the protection section to the dorsal side. This removable attachment can comprise hooks and loops, zippers, adhesives, and snaps. Preferably, each interchangeable protection section includes a width and a length wherein less than half the width and less than half the length is attached to the dorsal side. Alternately, a majority of the width and a majority of the length can be attached to the dorsal side. In another alternate embodiment each interchangeable protection section includes a base wherein the base is removably attached to the dorsal side.

Abstract: A sports glove comprising a palm side, a dorsal side positioned opposite the palm side, and a plurality of protection sections positioned on the dorsal side. Preferably, each protection section is partially attached to the dorsal side and includes a length and a width wherein preferably less than half of the length and less than half of the width is attached to the dorsal side. Additionally, each partially attached protection section can include a base wherein the base includes the partial attachment of the protection section to the dorsal side. As such, use of the sports glove by a wearer partially separates the plurality of partial attachment protection sections from the dorsal side. Alternately described at least a portion of each partially attached protection section is not attached to the dorsal side, or is separated from, the dorsal side of the glove.

Abstract: A work glove including a glove base material made of fiber and a foam layer composed of a thermoplastic resin or a rubber provided thereon, the foam layer having irregularities formed by heat press on the surface is provided. Heat press induces collapse and thermal fusion of foam, leaving traces of the foam on the surface of a foamed material. The foam layer produced by this technique has both film strength and abrasion resistance without deterioration in the non-slip properties usually possessed by the foam layer.

Abstract: A hood is provided that includes a lid and a mask which are pivotally connected and separately moveable. The mask and lid form an opening that increases or decreases in size when the mask pivots. The lid is moveable between an up and down position. In the up-position, an edge of the lid is disposed on a user's forehead and in the down-position the edge is disposed on a posterior of the user's. The mask is connected to the lid by a hinge portion which allows the mask to provide varying levels of coverage to a user's face.

Abstract: A face mask for improved fluid resistance is provided. The face mask may include a body portion with a first layer and a second layer. The first and second layers may have a plurality of folds that form a plurality of first creases in the first layer and a plurality of second creases in the second layer. The body portion may have an outer facing surface and an inner facing surface opposite from the outer facing surface. At least one of the first creases may be misaligned with at least one of the second creases in order to provide improved fluid resistance of the body portion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a garment with enhanced knee support.

Abstract: A garment, which is preferably in the form of a sock, comprises an ankle engaging part and a foot receiving part. The sock comprises a skin engaging material having an inner surface which is arranged to engage in use the skin on a wearer's foot (not shown), and hydration means, which may be in the form of a moisturizing cream or lotion, to hydrate the skin.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sock, especially a sock which is used in sports activities. The sole has rounded step area (13). The rounded step area (13) is advantageously dome shaped (131).

Abstract: A rear zipper sock includes a generally cylindrical sock body having a foot portion, a generally upright leg portion and a heel section intermediate the foot portion and the leg portion with a rear open seam formed in the leg portion extending from the top of the leg portion downwards at least partially through the heel section, the rear open seam extending generally upright and parallel with the center upright axis of the leg portion of the sock body. A zipper closure device is mounted on the sock body adjacent the rear open seam, the zipper closure device operative for alternately opening and closing the rear open seam such that a user can open the zipper closure device and insert the foot into the foot portion without requiring significant bending of the ankle or knee during the fitting.

Abstract: A helmet for protecting the head of a wearer includes a helmet body including an outer shell, and a strap for coupling the helmet to the head, the strap being secured to the helmet body. A piece of material is coupled to the helmet body proximate an edge surface of the helmet body and arranged to lie between the helmet body and the head of the wearer. A means is provided for attaching a portion of the strap to the piece of material at an attachment point distant from the edge surface, such that the strap adjacent the surface edge is pulled towards the head of the wearer. The piece of material is flexible, thereby allowing the attachment point to move relative to the helmet body.

Abstract: Cover (10) for baby held in front-carried carrier (100; or car seat/carrier 200, FIG. 8, etc.) suspended at adult user's front including two, top, substantially triangular, front (70) sub-panels (21) forming, alternatively, sealing collar (21?) when positioned about baby's neck (FIG. 4), or hood (21?) about baby's head when pulled up and snap connected (22, FIG. 5). The cover includes shoulder straps (31), front straps (41), stowing sleeves (42), waist straps (51) providing four-point carrier attachment, interior zippered pouch (61), cinches (75), side “pocket” slits (76) & elastic bands (77) in expandable, accordion sides (74). A central band (31) of heavy duty material provides structural support. Cover's rear (71) has “cut-out” (72) allowing cover to be slipped under front-carried carrier and over baby in carrier, with two, vertically spaced, strap sets connecting cover directly to carrier's body attachment straps (e.g., 101, 103) and not directly to user.

Abstract: Described is a multi-function device for attachment to the tank of a toilet fixture. The multi-function device provides a diffusible air-treatment concentrate for deodorizing or otherwise treating the ambient air surrounding the toilet. At the same time, the multi-function device provides a water-soluble water-treatment concentrate for treating the flush water stored in the toilet tank. The device includes a connector with an air-treatment housing coupled to one end and a water-treatment housing coupled to the opposite end of the connector. The connector is configured such that the air-treatment housing, in which the air-treatment concentrate is disposed, is positioned adjacent the exterior surface of the toilet tank and the water-treatment housing, in which the water-treatment concentrate is disposed, is positioned adjacent the interior surface of the toilet tank below the fill-level of the tank.

Abstract: A toilet assembly is provided having a bowl assembly, a fragmentation passage, a jet assembly, and a water system. The bowl assembly has a wastewater inlet and a waste water outlet. The fragmentation passage has a passage, an inlet, and an outlet. The fragmentation inlet and outlet are each in fluid communication with the passage. The passage has an upper portion, that is above a water line, and a lower portion, that is below a water line. The fragmentation inlet coupled to, and in fluid communication with, the bowl assembly waste outlet. The jet assembly has an inlet and an outlet. The jet assembly is coupled to, and in fluid communication with, the passage lower portion. The water system is coupled to and in fluid communication with the bowl assembly and the jet assembly. The water system is structured to deliver a quantity of water to the bowl assembly and the jet assembly and to remove wastewater from the fragmentation passage.

Abstract: A water-separating apparatus for toilet tank bridges a toilet tank and a water supply includes a concentric tube, a distributing tube and a solenoid valve. The concentric tube has a large tube containing a small tube, and an inlet connecting to the water supply and an outlet connecting to the distributing tube. The solenoid valve is connected to an inlet of the small tube of the concentric tube. The distributing tube has a large tube containing a small tube, and an inlet connecting to the concentric tube and an outlet connecting to a tube of the toilet tank. The concentric tube can divide the water supply to a plurality of water flows to meet multiple water supply requirements of the toilet tank and simplify the piping configuration outside the toilet tank.

Abstract: A lifting lever (10) for a cistern flush valve. The lever includes a first end (14) adapted for operative engagement with the cistern flush valve, a second end (18) adapted for operative engagement with a flush actuation button (24) and a pivot mounting (28) between the first (14) and second (18) ends. The second end (18) has first and second engagement regions (32, 34) which are respectively closer and farther to the pivot mounting (28). Initial movement of the button (24) causes it to engage the second engagement region (34) and pivot the lever (10) through a first predetermined range of movement whereafter further movement of the button (24) in the same direction causes it to engage the first engagement region (32) and further pivot the lever (10).

Abstract: An automatic flush assembly for pressure flush tank assemblies is provided. The assembly includes an actuator for activating a push cap, a sensor, a power supply, and a handle override. The actuator is designed to be placed onto a pressurized reservoir located with a tank of a traditional tank-style toilet. The actuator contains a motor, a reduction gear train, and an actuating element, as well as control logic. The actuator is electrically connected to the power supply and the handle override. Also disclosed is a method of installing an automatic flush assembly. The method includes attaching a reservoir to a water inlet and tank outlet; attaching an actuator to said reservoir; affixing a sensor in the functional proximity of the actuator; electrically connecting a handle override to said actuator; and electrically connecting a power source to said actuator.

Abstract: The invention concerns an actuator for drawing a flapper of a flapper valve into engagement with a seat to close the valve. An example of such a valve may be found in the tank of a toilet. In one embodiment, the actuator comprises a tether having a first end attachable to the flapper and a second end extendable to a position outside of the tank. A guide body is positionable within the tank. Preferably, the guide body is in the form of a tube attached lengthwise along the bottom of the tank. The guide body has an opening (the tube bore, for example) for receiving the tether in sliding engagement. The guide body is positioned so as to guide the first end of the tether in a downward direction when the tether is drawn through the guide body from the second end. In response, the flapper is thereby drawn downwardly into engagement with the seat.

Abstract: A bathing device preferably includes at least one armrest, a seat and a wall connecting the armrest to the seat. The wall preferably defines an undercut arrangement that increases a volume of the bathing device below the armrest to provide additional space for a bather while the bather is seated. The armrest is positioned at a height to support an arm of the bather and preferably defines one or more air and/or fluid emitting orifi that direct a flow of pressurized fluid (e.g., water) and/or air onto a hand, finger, and/or forearm of the bather. The bathing device may be a bath tub, hot tub, spa, whirlpool, or pool and may have various jets or other fluid emitting features for conducting fluid and/or air to give the user pleasure or relief from pain. The bathing device may also be sized and shaped to accommodate multiple bathers simultaneously.

Abstract: A bathing device, such as a bathtub, a tub shower, a shower, a spa and a pool, comprises a substantially iron-free shell and at least one heating pad in direct conductive heat exchange contact with the shell. It also relates to a method for manufacturing a heated bathing device.

Abstract: That end of a wall-mounting support for a shower head that is coordinated to the wall may be pivoted about a horizontal axis. A holder, into which a shower head may be inserted, is provided on the far end of the wall-mounting arm. That holder may also be pivoted about a horizontal axis.

Abstract: A toilet training system is installed upon a conventional toilet. The system includes a decorative form containing a cartoon or a design, and a related cartoon or design on the underside of the lid of the toilet. The form comprises a first upstanding part such as cartoon head, and a second part defining, for example, a depending related face. The first part of the decorative form is seated upon the upper surface of the toilet tank projecting upwardly above the toilet tank, while the second part or face of the character depends downwardly over the front face of the toilet tank. The full extent of the form is visible when the lid is closed. A face, similar to the second part is secured to the underside of the lid seat. Consequently, when the lid is raised, visual continuity of the cartoon character is maintained, so that the child being trained focuses on the decorative form and responds more readily to toilet training instructions.

Abstract: A stow-away bed is disclosed that includes a flat rectangular deck pivotally mounted between opposed vehicle end walls by a pair of parallel swing arms. The parallel swing arms allow the bed deck to remain horizontal as the deck is manually swung between the storage and sleep positions. The stow-away bed is pivotally mounted between opposed vehicle end walls for movement between a sleep position where the bed deck is suspended adjacent the vehicle ceiling and a sleep position, where the bed deck is suspended from the vehicle ceiling. A pair of elastic cords connect the bed deck to the vehicle side wall. The elastic cords pull the bed deck toward the vehicle sidewall and help hold the bed deck in the sleep position.

Abstract: A collapsible apparatus is provided that includes a frame configured to form a closed loop, the frame being moveable between a coiled configuration and an uncoiled configuration. A sleeve is configured to receive the frame and to define an opening within at least a portion of the closed loop. An attachment mechanism is coupled substantially about the periphery of the sleeve. A fabric member is removably coupled to the sleeve such that it is easily removed. A method of making mats according to an embodiment of the invention includes cutting fabric members from a first sheet of material, cutting body membranes from a second sheet of material such that the amount of excess material from the second sheet of material between adjacent body membranes is minimized, and attaching one of the body membranes to one of the fabric members.

Abstract: A bed guard assembly includes a one or more end panels, a spanner, connectors and an extension. The spanner is placed against the top or bottom surface a mattress. The connectors connect the spanner to the end panels such that one end panel opposes another end panel across the mattress when the spanner is disposed against the surface of the mattress. The extension is removably attached to one of the connectors and extends from the connector at a substantially right angle with respect to the spanner.

Abstract: Means coupled to the torso covering portion of uncovering resistant shared bedclothing such as sheets or blankets includes an open fold, a single pleat and a double pleat in alternate disclosed embodiments for preventing uncovering of one sleeper in response to turning of the torso covering portion of the shared bedclothing by another sleeper. The sheets, blankets or other bedclothing may be King, Queen or Double sized to fit King, Queen or Double size beds.

Abstract: A thermally-adaptive comforter which gives the user a greater amount of control over the temperature of their sleeping environment. The invention accomplishes this objective by providing a comforter with hatches which allows the user to vary the thermal conductivity of the comforter in certain areas.

Abstract: Modular system for assembling a motorized adjustable support apparatus for the upholstery of a piece of furniture for one of sitting and lying includes a first support element including a first longitudinal rail assembly, and a second support element including a second longitudinal rail assembly. The first and second longitudinal rail assemblies are detachably connected by a connecting element to form a base of the support apparatus, in use. The assembled adjustable support apparatus includes the two support elements adjustable relative to one another for supporting the upholstery. A connecting shaft is provided for transmitting the rotation of a first pivot shaft connected to the first rail assembly to a third pivot shaft connected to the second rail assembly. Ends of the connecting shaft are detachably insertable into recesses defined in the first and third pivot shafts, and are securable against rotation.

Abstract: A changing table for use with a playard includes a platform that is sized to support a child and at least one changing table mount arranged relative to the platform to releasably engage the platform to the playard. The changing table mount includes a release actuator. When the changing table is engaged with the playard, the changing table is configured to remain engaged with the playard when a force of less than or equal to 25 pounds is applied to a location on the changing table other than the release actuator.

Abstract: A bedside support device is disclosed. In one embodiment, the bedside support device is attachable to a bed assembly and comprises a mounting member attachable to the bed assembly, and a support bar attached to the mounting member. The support bar having a base portion rotatably mounted to the mounting member and is free swinging relative to the mounting member between first and second positions. The support bar has a handle portion attached to the base portion and is moveable in a plane relative to the bed assembly as the base portion moves between the first and second positions.

Abstract: A bedside support device having a free swinging mode of a handle member where the handle member is positioned in a manner to prevent entrapment zones while in a free swinging mode to prevent injury to the individual in requirement of support. The bedside support device is adapted to resist vertical force placed thereon to give vertical support to an individual while allowing the handle region to reposition laterally to allow the individual to move to and from the bed structure. The handle region defined an unobstructed side region to allow the individual's legs to be placed under the handle member to properly allow the individual to stand up or sit down on the bed structure in a controlled and safe manner.

Abstract: This invention provides an improved bed. The bed comprises a top sheet, a bottom sheet connected with the top sheet, and at least one coil beam. The coil beam further comprises a first fastener attached to the top sheet, a second fastener attached to the bottom sheet, and a string connecting the first and second fasteners. In one embodiment, the first fastener further comprises a first attachment sheet with two first openings and a first bridge formed therebetween. The first attachment sheet is welded onto the top sheet. The string runs through the two first openings between the first bridge and the top sheet. In addition, the second fastener further comprises a second attachment sheet with two second openings and a second bridge formed therebetween. The second attachment sheet is welded onto the bottom sheet. The string runs through the two second openings between the second bridge and the bottom sheet.

Abstract: In a process for the production of leather, pelts, pickled pelts or semifinished products are treated with at least one polymer which is obtainable by copolymerization of at least one ethylenically unsaturated dicarboxylic anhydride (A), derived from at least one dicarboxylic acid of 4 to 8 carbon atoms, at least one vinylaromatic compound (B) and optionally at least one ethylenically unsaturated monomer (C) which differs from (A) and has a hetero atom, reaction with at least one compound (D) of the formula Ia or Ib at least 0.55 equivalent, based on (A), of (D) being used, and optionally hydrolysis with water or aqueous alkaline solution, where, in formulae Ia and Ib, the variables are defined as follows: A1 are identical or different and are C2-C6-alkylene R1 is linear or branched C1-C20-alkyl, and n is an integer from 6 to 200.

Abstract: A washing machine includes a cabinet, a tub mounted within the cabinet, and a basket rotationally mounted within the tub for relative rotation therewith. A suspension assembly supports the tub within the cabinet. A variable speed motor is included for rotating the basket about a rotation axis, and an inverter is operatively coupled to the motor. A controller is operatively coupled to the inverter and the motor and is configured to control the motor based on a drag torque on the basket.

Abstract: A household laundry appliance is provided for washing and drying individual pieces of laundry. The appliance includes a bin for holding laundry, wash and dry stations, and a robotic feeder mechanism to automatically convey laundry from the bin to the processing stations. The wash stations include a spray station for spraying the garments with a cleaning solution, and an ultrasonic station for applying ultrasonic vibrations to the garments. Rinse and extraction stations are provided upstream from the drying station to rinse the garments and then extract water from the garments. The garments are continuously transported through the appliance by a series of mesh conveyor belts between which the garments are sandwiched. The drying station includes fans for blowing heated air past the clothing to drive moisture out of the clothing. The temperature and velocity of the air may be adjusted to accommodate different garment materials and dampness.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for dyeing keratin fibres, comprising a physiologically acceptable aqueous medium, comprising: at least one dye bearing at least one ionic group, said dye being present in an amount ranging from 0.001 to 5% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition; at least one block copolymer comprising at least one water-soluble nonionic block and at least one ionic block exhibiting charges opposite to that of the ionic charge borne by the dye.

Abstract: The invention relates to a composition for the oxidation dyeing of keratin fibres, and in particular human keratin fibres such as the hair, comprising, in a medium which is suitable for dyeing, at least one oxidation base, 1,3-bis(?-hydroxyethyl)amino-2-methylbenzene and/or at least one of the addition salts thereof with an acid as first coupler, and at least one substituted meta-aminophenol selected as second coupler, as well as to the dyeing process using this composition.

Abstract: The present invention is related to stabilization of color of cleansing compositions on aqueous basis, particularly body cleansing compositions such as shampoo, shower gel, face and hand cleansing compositions by using at least one chelating agent and at least one UV absorbing substance.

Abstract: The present invention is related to stabilization of color of conditioning compositions for hair on aqueous basis, suitable for use after using cleansing compositions by using at least one chelating agent and at least one UV absorbing substance.

Abstract: A cosmetic composition for making up keratin materials includes at least one polyelectrolyte, at least one surfactant having an HLB of at least about 6 at 25° C., and at least one dyestuff. A leave-on cosmetic composition for making up and/or nontherapeutic care of keratin fibers includes at least one polyelectrolyte, and at least one surfactant having an HLB of at least about 6 at 25° C. The polyelectrolytes may be branched and/or crosslinked, the compositions may include at least one of water and a water-soluble solvent, and the compositions may include an oily continuous phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an organic dye-sensitized photoelectric conversion device and a solar cell utilizing the same. In accordance with a demand to now for development of an organic dye-sensitized photoelectric conversion device with high conversion efficiency and high practicability using an inexpensive dye, there is provided in the present invention, a photoelectric conversion device with high conversion efficiency by producing a photoelectric conversion device by sensitizing fine semiconductor particles with a methine dye having specified skeleton.

Abstract: The washing brush (1) comprises a main body (2) having an inlet (3) connectable to a water supply source and an outlet (4) from which a mixture of water and liquid detergent exits externally of the brush (1). The body (2) is provided with a reservoir (5) for containing a liquid detergent, having a bottom (5a) affording at least a hole (6). Externally of the main body (2) there is a plurality of bristles (7) for removing the dirt, moved by means for transmitting motion (8). The brush (1) is provided with integral means (9) for mechanically removing the liquid detergent remaining at the base of the at least a hole (6).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for cleaning a cylindrical or conical tube (2) having a smooth wall and placed in a horizontal or an inclined position, said device comprising: a cylindrical body (4) that has an axis X, that is suitable for being inserted axially into said tube, and that, around its periphery, has brush means (6, 7) for brushing the inside wall (1) of said tube (2); a rod (30) fastened to an end face of said body (4); and means for causing said rod (30) and said body (4) to turn about the axis X; said device being characterized by the fact that the cylindrical body (4) has a chamber (12) that is suitable for receiving a cleaning liquid and, on one of its generator lines, it has: a first orifice (14) opening out into a first end of a radial duct (17) which is disposed in said chamber (12) and whose second end (19) is disposed in the vicinity of that wall (20) of said chamber (12) which is situated facing said first orifice (14); and at least one second orifice (13, 15) open to the outside and

Abstract: In one embodiment, a cleaning device comprises a holder and a cleaning pad removably attached to the holder. The cleaning pad comprises a non-woven web having a length along a length dimension and a width along a width dimension, and having a height along a height dimension, wherein the length and the width define a cleaning surface, wherein the height and the length defining a side surface. The width is less than the height which is less than the length. The cleaning surface is capable of cleaning other surfaces.

Abstract: A toothbrush includes a head assembly with bristles, a base assembly, and a connector which connects the two. A battery and light assembly are disposed in the connector and base assembly, and a power button switch turns the power to a light source “ON/OFF”. The base assembly includes a transparent lens portion at the distal end, through which a light beam from the light source shines when the switch is turned ON. The light beam can project a picture or icon on a slide through the lens portion onto a remote surface. The slide can be permanently fixed in the base assembly or interchangeable. A timer is connected to the batteries, light source, and switch, and allows the light source to turn on for a predetermined period of time. Alternatively, the base assembly contains at least one indicator light which indicates how long the light source has been ON.

Abstract: A trim tool and paint tray system for use in dispensing paint. The system includes a trim tool having a paint applicator to apply paint to a surface to be painted and at least one edge guard to shield adjacent surfaces that are to remain free of paint from the applicator. The system also includes a paint tray having a paint-receiving well and at least one slot free of paint. The paint tray is configured to receive the trim tool such that the paint applicator is received in the paint well to charge the paint applicator with paint and the edge guard is received in the slot so the edge guard remains free of paint.

Abstract: A mop has an elongated shaft, a body at a distal end of the shaft, a sponge operably coupled to the body and generally orthogonal to the elongated shaft, and a pair of rollers. The pair or rollers are movably mounted to the body and generally orthogonal to the elongated shaft. The pair of rollers are also spaced apart from each other and straddle at least a portion of the sponge. The mop also comprises an actuator configure to move the sponge between the rollers from a retracted position to a deployed position. At least one scrubbing element is disposed on at least one of the rollers, the scrubbing element configured to move into a deployed position when the sponge is moved into the retracted position, the scrubbing element also configured to move into a retracted position when the sponge is moved into the deployed position.

Abstract: A flat handled scrubber has abrasive sponge elements adhered to opposing ends. The two abrasive sponges are precisely sized and configured to enhance cleansing of interior surfaces of a sippy cup lid, particularly, in and around the mouthpiece.

Abstract: The invention relates to a toothbrush comprising: i) an elongated handle having distal and proximal ends and one or more elastomeric handle regions therein; and ii) a resiliently flexible head attached to the proximal end of the handle, the head including a pair of opposing faces, one of the pair being a bristle-bearing face with bristles attached to and extending from the face, wherein at least one of the pair has one or more elastomer-containing, transverse grooves therein; and iii) one or more elastomer supply channels extending between the elastomeric handle regions and the transverse grooves. Whereby at least one of the elastomeric handle regions and the traverse grooves can be filled with elastomer from a single injection point. The elastomeric regions in the head can be used to make the head flexible and the whole brush can conveniently be made on conventional machines.