Abstract: The present invention includes a protective device for the lawn or landscape worker that protects the lower leg. This device clips onto the hem of the user's short pants and wraps around the user's lower leg. It is secured to the leg with straps and fasteners. This device allows for quick and easy donning and removal. This device also allows for maximum protection and comfort.

Abstract: A enclosed cone shaped bag to wear for warmth at outdoor events, it encloses the body from the weather and allows the person to watch outdoor events whether it be sporting, hunting or fishing or any other events in comfort, it has a flat bottom of different tougher material to stand on, it has elastic shoulder straps attached to the back of the bag so a person can stand and it not fall off, there are to arm-holes in front to reach your drink or applaud, the zipper in the front can be in several different positions for comfort or fit, it has an elastic loop attached to the back at the bottom for storing when rolled up and not in use.

Abstract: The present invention provides a two chest pocket t-shirt having a front, a back, sleeves and a neckband. Reinforced left and right chest pockets made from ribbed polyester-cotton fabric stretch to accommodate pocket contents but return to their original shape on removal of the pocket contents. The top edge of each chest pocket is further reinforced to permit limited stretching of the top edge and inhibit loss of pocket contents from the chest pocket.

Abstract: A flexible and comfortable separating padded cushion for toe protection having openings at one edge for the toe's insertion (10, 11, 12 13 & 14). The base (16) of the cushion is made of a polymer-based foam material. In addition, a layer of breathable fabric or other flexible material coats (15) the cushion for supplementary comfort and durability.

Abstract: A sock assembly for absorbing sweat from a foot placed within a shoe while presenting visibly distinct material outside of the shoe is provided. A first version is appealing to diabetic persons who wish to protect their feet from moisture induced damage. The device includes a sock assembly having an upper section coupled with a foot bottom. The foot bottom is at least partially comprised of a fluid absorbing fabric and may include a toe section, an underside section and a heel section. The coupling of the upper section and the foot bottom is affected by a suitable connection structure known in the art used to secure two pieces of fabric to include, but not limited, to glue or thread.

Abstract: Disclosed is a leather belt including a band extending in the longitudinal direction and a buckle engaged with one end the band, the leather belt being adapted such that the leather belt is tightened by having the band put on around a waist of a user, the leather belt comprising: a panel-type heating element attached to the inside of the band; a cover sheet attached to the outside of the panel-type heating element for protecting the panel-type heating element; a case engaged with the outer surface of the band; and a control box received in the case, the control box having a battery built therein and provided with an operation button, wherein the panel-type heating element is connected to the control box by means of an electric wire so as to generate heat.

Abstract: A circular knit male brief is provided. The brief is a single pouch supporting the male genitals without straps, waistband or buttocks cover, retained by an integrated adjustable collar closure around the base of the genitals. specifically underwear, sun-wear, swimwear, supporter, or enhancement device designed to be worn under—or instead of—men's usual underwear and swimwear. The brief's form follows the anatomical design of the genitals—the penis and scrotum—as a single, integrated entity. Its one piece, seamless single-pouch construction has an entrance opening with a closure that encircles the base of the genitals. To achieve superior support and comfort the brief is designed as a single pouch using circular knit technology to create separate contours for each testicle and the penis, to allow for the changing shapes, movements and precise positions that the genitals make of their own accord to maintain comfort and health.

Abstract: The invention is trousers with an auxiliary supportive crotch pouch. The pouch is a piece of cloth of two ends. One end of it is attached to the bottom seam of the trousers or its nearby place. The other end is attached to the waist, the waist belt, the elastic cord or its nearby place. The piece of cloth forms a curved, suspended pouch when the penis is placed in it. The pouch can secure the penis and support the weight of the testicles. Since the penis is secured and does not swing loosely, the pouch can effectively prevent contact between the penis and the crotch, preventing friction and the occurrence of tinea cruris (a rash).

Abstract: A drain assembly includes a cup connected to the sink and having an extension tube. A seal and an urging ring are mounted to the cup from the underside of the cup. A positioning plate is fixed to the cup and the extension tube extends through a central hole of the positioning plate. A plurality of bolts extend through the positioning plate and contact against the urging ring. A filtering seal device is connected to the cup. A connector is fixed to the extension tube and a positioning member is threadedly connected to the extension tube of the cup. The positioning member is engaged with the central hole of the positioning plate. By the engagement of the positioning member and the positioning plate, the assembler can quickly position the drain assembly.

Abstract: A method of thermal insulation of a pool (300) is provided, the method comprising the steps of preparing a pool structure (20, 22), and attaching a layer (24) of thermal insulation material to an interior surface of the pool structure (20, 22). Also provided are a pool constructed according to such a method and a pool comprising a pool structure and a layer of thermal insulation material attached to an interior surface of a floor of the pool structure.

Abstract: A circular suction outlet assembly is provided for use in swimming pools, spas, and the like, which includes a sump body having a central stem which forms an annular space within the sump body, and a nozzle which communicates with the annular space to convey water to the swimming pool drain circuit. A circular, domed-shaped cover is removeably fitted to the top of the sump body. Safety features of the suction outlet assembly include openings in the cover arranged to allow a bather to safely break a seal formed between a body part and the cover. In the event the cover becomes separated from the sump body, the annular space and the central stem also inhibit the insertion and entrapment of human body parts in the sump body.

Abstract: An elongated suction outlet assembly is provided for use in swimming pools, hot tubs and the like. The suction outlet assembly includes an elongated sump having at least one longitudinal, raised island extending upwardly from inside the sump, and an elongated cover engaging the sump. Safety features of the suction outlet assembly are designed to inhibit human entrapment and thereby reduce the related risk of serious injury or death. The cover is long enough to prevent a bather's body from covering and blocking all of the openings therein, and thereby avoids the creation of a dangerous entrapping force. In the event the cover becomes separated from the sump, the raised island(s) provides a back-up safety feature by preventing a bather's access to the suction outlet nozzle via narrow axial flow channels, thereby virtually eliminating the risk of limb entrapment.

Abstract: A spa is retrofit for use with a heat pump for both heating and cooling the water contained in the spa tub. The heat pump uses the existing water pump of the hydrotherapy system to circulate the water through the heat exchanger of the heat pump.

Abstract: A spa tub includes a control system that operates with a water temperature modification system to stabilize the spa water at a set temperature. In a preferred embodiment, the water temperature modification system is a heat pump. The stabilized temperature provides safety to users of the spa.

Abstract: A quick connector for connecting a source of fluid to a working element has a body connectable to the fluid source and having an axis, a fitting member connectable to the working element and axially movable relative to the body, and a locking member connected with the body for locking the body and the fitting member with one another in an assembled condition, the fitting member having a part provided with an outer conical surface which is insertable in an inner conical surface of a holder.

Abstract: A bathing aid adapted to support the body of a person attending to a child in a bathtub. The bathing aid supports the body of a person kneeling adjacent the bathtub and reaching into the bathtub. The bathing aid includes a frame mounted to the bathtub, at least one post vertically extending from the frame, and a cushioned support pad mounted to the post. The cushioned support pad is positioned to support the torso of the user to minimize muscle strain and free the hands of user. The height of the post and the orientation of the support pad may be varied to enhance the comfort and support of the user. Aspects of the invention may also be used for non-bathing applications, for example, by healthcare professionals, animal caretakers, assembly-line workers, and technicians.

Abstract: A removable protective liner has a thin sheet of non-absorbent, flexible material. The liner is used for lining the sink. A drain hole liner is formed in the thin sheet. The drain hole liner extends down from the thin sheet to cover an area of the drain hole leading down to the drain pipe. A first tab member extends from the thin sheet. The first tab member is used for covering a first area around the sink.

Abstract: A faucet or valve handle turning tool is provided and includes an elongated, cylindrical body of machinable or moldable material having a handle at one end and a cavity formed in the opposite end. The cavity is formed with inwardly extending sidewalls and has at least one portion conforming to the peripheral contour of a faucet or valve handle. In particular, the sidewalls of such cavity may have similar elliptical contours. In at least one example, the cavity may be formed by means of mechanical routing and removal of material from the tool body. In use, the tool thereby reduces the possibility of damage to a polished faucet or valve handle frequently caused by hardened conventional plumbing tools.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a patient removal system are provided for evacuating a patient during an emergency. The patient removal systems may be used to transport the patient while the patient is on a mattress, or the patient removal systems may be used to transport the patient without the mattress. The patient removal systems permit caregivers to transport patients out of danger or harm without requiring patient support devices to be transported along with the patients.

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. In one embodiment, 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. In another embodiment, a chain drive and piston prop are incorporated to assist in moving the bed between the storage and sleep positions.

Abstract: A support module for use in a bedding foundation to support a support surface above a bedding foundation base, the support module being of an independent wire form configured to define a top portion, a bottom portion, and four predominantly straight support legs, wherein the support legs are skewed with respect to each other, such that each respective support leg is not parallel to any of the other support legs. The top of each support leg is bent to be oriented into a common first plane to form the top portion, which may be connected to a wire grid assembly to form a nestable bedding foundation.

Abstract: A there-dimensional shaped bedding comprising a confining member and a covering member is disclosed. The confining member encloses a predefined plane. The covering member is connected with the confining member in such a way that the predefined plane is situated on one side of the covering member. The covering member has at least an opening and at least one apical surface. The apical surface is one height apart from the confining member to turn the covering member into a shape of predefined continuous curve and make the apical surface essentially the highest point. The covering member may be folded up through exertion of force, and when the force is removed, restores the shape of predefined continuous curve.

Abstract: A user module for a patient support is provided. The user module is coupled to a patient support barrier, such as a siderail or a footboard.

Abstract: A patient support including a frame, a mattress supported by the frame, and a set of siderails configured to block egress of a patient from the patient support. The siderails are configured to reduce gaps defined between the siderails and the other components of the patient support.

Abstract: A bed having a frame, a deck, and a communication network and at least one module. The at least one module includes a charting module.

Abstract: A bed (10) or trolley or similar consists of a platform (20) comprising a back section (21), seat section (22), thigh section (23) and foot section (24). The “auto contour” controls are configured such that when the sections (21, 23, 24) are driven from a flat condition, the back (21) and thigh (23) sections are moved simultaneously, until they reach the same angle. The thigh section (23) then remains at that position and the back section (21) continues until it reaches its maximum position. To lower the sections using the “auto contour” controls only the back section (21) is driven down until it reaches the equivalent position to the thigh section (23) and then both sections (21, 23) are driven down simultaneously. The patient is held in a relatively constant position, thereby reducing the shear between the patient's skin and the support surface.

Abstract: On a foot-controlled operating element for motor-driven items of furniture, particularly lift beds (1) and treatment couches, with a motor-driven lifting mechanism and a foot switch for operating the drive, where the drive function can be activated by exerting a load on the foot switch, provision is made, for the purpose of deactivating the drive motor of the lifting mechanism, preferably reversing the lowering movement until the operator's foot is released, for the foot switch to display at least a second switching step, which can be triggered by increasing the operating force exerted by the foot beyond the normal load value, and stops the downward movement of the item of furniture.

Abstract: A patient support apparatus comprises a frame, at least one drop rail coupled to the frame and tiltable relative to the frame, a seat section supported by the at least one drop rail to tilt therewith, a thigh section coupled to the seat section, a head section coupled to the frame and coupled to the at least one drop rail, and a linkage coupled to the head section and coupled to the thigh section. Raising and lowering of the head section results in tilting of the at least one drop rail relative to the frame. The linkage has a first mode of operation in which the seat and thigh sections remain substantially parallel as the at least one drop rail tilts. The linkage has a second mode of operation in which the thigh section tilts relative to the seat section as the at least one drop rail tilts.

Abstract: A combination art pad and pillow system that allows one to comfortably write, draw, and/or color, while lying in a prone position, is provided. When not being used as an art pad, the art pad may be fully contained within the pillow and the pillow can simply be used for lying thereon. This system is portable and fully self-contained. The inventive art pad and pillow system includes a pillow having at least one cushion and a cover. At least one pocket having a predetermined size and shape is located within the cover. At least one opening is provided in the cover. This at least one opening is positioned adjacent the pocket. A foldable pad is positioned within the pocket. The pad is capable of being extended out of the pillow to form a flat surface for at least one of writing and/or coloring thereon.

Abstract: A pair of symmetrical pillow members each have an enlarged lower portion and a narrowing upper portion with a strap extending from a top end. The straps of the two pillow members are releasably attachable to one another, behind the headrest of an automobile seat, to adjustably position and support the pillow members on the opposite sides of the head of a person occupying the seat. In a preferred embodiment, the pillow members are structured to extend over the seat occupant's shoulders with the lower portions converging towards one another, thereby allowing the person to rest their head to the left or right side. The pillow members are adjustably positionable to accommodate for the size of the individual, ranging from children to large adults.

Abstract: An end panel 312 for a patient-support apparatus 310 includes a main portion 316 and one or more movable portions 330, 332. The movable portions 330, 332 are movable to provide a barrier 318 in a gap between a siderail 360 of the patient-support apparatus 310 and the main portion 316 of the end panel 312.

Abstract: A mattress having a storage compartment is provided. The storage compartment is used to hold items that are useful in the transport of a patient located on the mattress, such as a patient restraint that can be used to secure the patient to the mattress during transport.

Abstract: A patient support is provided comprising a frame including a deck support and a step deck positioned on the deck support. The step deck has an upper deck, a lower deck, and a side wall, the upper deck being spaced apart from the lower deck to define a recess of the deck. The step deck includes a first section and a second section configured to articulate relative to the first section. A mattress section support is positioned in the recess. A mattress has a mattress section supported by the mattress section support and the upper deck.

Abstract: A cationic finished textile material, in particular in the form of a cloth, rag or the like, includes a textile fabric composed of textile fibers, wherein the fibers having a permanent cationic finish, wherein the textile material is at least partly raised. The cationic finished textile material is particularly useful for preventing discolorations and/or greying of textiles in the wash or for preventing depositions of dyes on textiles in the wash.

Abstract: A method for controlling a washing machine is disclosed. The method includes determining whether a discharging condition is satisfied, and if the discharging condition is satisfied, discharging water in a steam generator out of the steam generator. Accordingly, deposit of foreign substances in the steam generator can be effectively prevented. Further, since the deposit of the foreign substances in the steam generator is automatically prevented, the convenience in usage of the washing machine is increased.

Abstract: The object of the present invention are (3,5-diaminophenyl)(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)metha-none and the acid adducts thereof of formula (I), with 0?n?2 and HX denoting an inor-ganic or organic acid, the colorant containing these compounds and a method for producing the compounds of formula (I).

Abstract: The agent for dyeing hair has a pH of 4 to 11 and contains a reduced vat dye, which is obtained by reducing a vat dye, such as an anthrquinonoid dye, with a reducing agent compound that forms an enediol in an alkaline medium, preferably acetoin, monohydroxyacetone, and dihydroxyacetone. The method of dyeing hair includes pre-reducing the vat dye with the reducing agent compound at a pH of from 10 to 13 to form the reduced vat dye, providing an agent for dyeing the hair having a pH of from 4 to 11 and containing the reduced vat dye, allowing the agent to act on the hair while protecting the reduced vat dye in the agent from atmospheric oxygen, and then re-oxidizing with atmospheric oxygen or an oxidant.

Abstract: The present invention has for an object agents for the simultaneous brightening and dyeing of keratin fibers—particularly hair—characterized in that they contain a) at least one oxidant and (b) at least one indolylthiazoliumazo dye of formula (1) and that, (c) they have a basic pH

Abstract: A composite footwear insole, and a method for making and assembling the composite footwear insole, includes a plurality of sections either removably or securably attachable to a bottom layer. The sections are made of different materials to provide different types of support, such as rigid or shock absorbing. Each section may also have different surface characteristics. The composite footwear insole may be used to at least partially abate and/or prevent foot and related ailments commonly suffered by diabetics and others with pathologic or painful foot conditions. A kit for making an insole is provided wherein a variety of insole sections are provided that have different cushioning or support features and/or different surface characteristics, allowing a user to choose the preferred insole sections and assemble the sections onto the bottom layer, thereby constructing a composite footwear insole.

Abstract: A dock leveler support frame includes an upper frame member and a substantially vertical frame member connected thereto. The substantially vertical frame member includes both a structural member and a height-adjusting leg assembly. The leg assembly is adjustable via a drive member proximate the upper frame member. Rotating the drive member raises or lowers the upper frame member by altering the distance between the upper frame member and a foot at the lower end of the leg assembly. Ramp attachment points are also provided proximate the upper frame member. The support frame is installed by placing it in a pit with the upper frame member adjacent the curb, and adjusting the leg assembly to level the upper frame member to the curb. Once level, the back frame is secured to the dock, and the drive member may be secured to the upper frame member to prevent counter-rotation.

Abstract: An improved box beam bridge and a method of construction are disclosed. The box beam bridge comprises a plurality of box beams for each lane structure of the bridge. Each of these lane structures are separately secured together and post-tensioned by means of a composite material strand. The separate lane structures are then brought together to complete the bridge width, with an interstitial box beam placed between the separate lane structures. Once arranged together, the separate lane structures and integrated interstitial box beam are secured together and post-tensioned by a second composite material strand that runs the entire width of the bridge.

Abstract: Disclosed is a modular bridge, typically for temporary use to enable persons to pass between upper floors of adjacent buildings during fire fighting or disaster relief operations, which can be rapidly assembled and deployed within a confined space and entirely from the “home” side of the gap to be crossed. It comprises a plurality of man-portable box section bridge modules adapted to be connected together end to end and projected in cantilever fashion from one side of the gap to the other. The assembly of modules is supported in and guided through a launch frame, with modules being added to the rear of the assembly and pushed through the frame until the gap is spanned. Removable lever arms of the frame are used to counterbalance the weight of the projected bridge modules during the course of deployment.

Abstract: The present invention provides a liner for a golf equipment washer. The liner is adapted to fit within a conventional golf equipment washer and to hold cleaning solution of such a washer. When the cleaning solution needs to be changed, the old solution and liner are removed and replaced with new. In addition, the liner is adjustable in its volumetric capacity such that when the cleaning solution freezes, the liner expands to absorb the enlarged volume without imparting pressure on the reservoir of the washer and thereby damaging the washer. Moreover, through the use of the liner, anti-freeze within the cleaning solution cannot contact the washer itself and corrode the washer.

Abstract: A brush assembly includes a handle and a brush head attached to the handle. The brush head includes a base with a plurality of integral bristles and a matrix. The matrix is made of sponge, foam or other compressible material. As the brush is used on a person or an animal skin or scalp, the hair or fur causes the matrix to compress and expose the bristles. When the brush is removed, the matrix springs back and removes any hair, fur, or other material entangled in the hair. Optionally a vibrating device is incorporated into the brush to provide massaging of the skin and/or scalp.

Abstract: A brush for hygienic purposes includes a handle with a lower and an upper portion and a head. The upper portion is sized and shaped to capture the head. Preferably the head is a removable cartridge and includes a flexible base with a plurality bristles and a pad with holes disposed over the bristles. The pad could be a foam or sponge matrix or could be a stack of sheets removable one at a time. Upper portion of the handle is curved to provide a predetermined shape to the head. Optionally, a vibrating device is incorporated in the brush so that the brush can be used as to massage the skin or scalp.

Abstract: A block is provided that includes a first and second bore on a first side. The first and second bores may converge. A handle may be inserted into the first bore. A securing element may be inserted into the second bore until it makes contact with the handle and when installed can limit rotation of the handle with respect to the block. When desired, the securing element can be removed and the handle can be removed from the block and position in the second bore. The securing element may be reinstalled in the first bore and again limit rotation of the handle with respect to the block.

Abstract: A flexible cleaning tool for use in wet, damp or dry cleaning is disclosed. The cleaning tool includes a handle connected to an elongated flexible support member. A cleaning pad encloses the support member. In one embodiment, the handle defines a fluid reservoir receiving cradle.

Abstract: A hand tool comprising a finishing element and a handle, wherein the finishing element is affixed to the handle with adhesive tape, and a method of affixing a handle to a finishing element using adhesive tape. A bracket may be used intermediate the finishing element and the handle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wiper blade mounted to a wiper apparatus for a vehicle to wipe a windshield. An object of the present invention is to provide a wiper blade which can be more easily assembled and manufactured by forming a connector integrally with a wiper frame. According to the present invention for achieving the object, there is provided a wiper blade coupled to a wiper arm of a vehicle to wipe a windshield, comprising a wiper strip in contact with the windshield; a wiper frame curved along its lengthwise direction and having elasticity to bring the wiper strip into contact with the windshield; and a connector formed integrally with the wiper frame and coupled with the wiper arm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a wiper blade mounted to a wiper apparatus for a vehicle to wipe a windshield and having an improved coupling structure of a connector for coupling a wiper frame to a wiper arm. An object of the present invention is to provide a wiper blade, which has a wiper frame formed to have elasticity, thereby being simple in structure, and has a connector, which is to be coupled with a wiper arm and is more accurately and securely coupled with the wiper frame.