Abstract: Disclosed herein is a hand protector for kitchen work. The hand protector is worn on the back of the hand and the fingers, thus protecting the user's hand from the blade of a kitchen knife, and ensuring unrestricted movement of his or her fingers while wearing the hand protector. Thus, this invention protects a user from a cut wound during a cooking operation, thus relaxing the user and allowing him or her to cook food in a pleasant frame of mind. Further, this invention ensures unrestricted movement of the user's fingers and prevents the user from being injured, thus allowing the user to cut at a fast speed and allowing the cooking operation to be more rapidly executed.

Abstract: Described is a pad for interposition between a limb of a user and an apparatus to be attached to the limb. The pad comprises a first cushion element extending along a first portion of a first side of the pad and a second cushion element extending along a first portion of a second side of the pad. The first and second cushion elements are separated from one another by a first reduced thickness area which, when the pad is mounted in a desired orientation, extends between the first and second cushion elements substantially along a longitudinal axis of the limb so that, when interposed between the limb and the apparatus attached thereto, the pad bends along the longitudinal axis to maintain the first and second cushion elements and the reduced thickness area in contact with the limb.

Abstract: A protective bib for safeguarding clothing of a user from spoils, stains, or burns, while eating, drinking, or smoking while traveling in a vehicle, train, plane, bus, boat, or other mode of transportation having or not having a diagonally extending seat belt. The protective bib has a protective covering generally trapezoidal in shape, including a top edge, a top liner, and a non-permeable bottom liner. An adhesive secures the top and bottom liners together. The top-edge extends diagonally across the chest of the user and the self-contained textile adhesive envelope-like flap when open will attach to the seat belt alone the top edge of the bib for securing the bib in place.

Abstract: An elastic upper-body undergarment that comprises a form-fitting body portion covering a shoulder region to a mid-torso region and two arm regions, and the body portion is made of elastic material, such as hosiery. The arm region has an absorbent material that is made of materials from panty liner and diaper materials to absorb sweat. The undergarment provides sweat protection to allow user for a tight, inconspicuous and comfortable fit.

Abstract: A method of conveying information or a message, wherein two articles of clothing on two wearers are used with the first part of a message and/or graphic on the first article of clothing, and the second part of the message and/or graphic on the second article of clothing. The messages and/or graphics can be on the front or back of the articles of clothing, and both the front and back of the articles of clothing may have complementary messages and/or graphics. The articles of clothing may also include orienting emblems on lateral sides of the articles of clothing. The orienting emblems indicating the proper relative orientation of the wearers to communicate the desired message.

Abstract: An ear-insulating garment is configured for wearing with close-fitting headwear such as cowboy hats, helmets, equestrian helmets, baseball caps and the like. The garment comprises an insulating member is preferably made of a flexible, insulating fabric and wraps around the back of the wearer's head. A strap extends from the forward ends of the ear-insulating member and over the top of the wearer's head. The strap is thin and flexible and does not interfere with the fit of the hat, even when the hat is of a fixed size and/or has a tightly fitting sweatband.

Abstract: A system for providing a drawstring for an article of clothing or accessory having a front and a back and having a peripheral surface necessary to be tightened, the system including a semi-rigid crochet layer having a braided strands of a fibrous material defining a pattern in the article having openings which repeat at a number in a range of about 3 to about 8 per linear inch in all directions, and in which the openings of the layer define a range of between about 15 to about 35 percent of the entire surface of the crochet layer and a cord braided of filaments of a material more pliable than the braided strands of the crochet layer.

Abstract: A strap member is disclosed for use in securing a garment to a wearer. The strap member includes a looped portion and a non-looped portion. A first attachment is present for removeably attaching the non-looped portion to the garment and a second attachment is present for attaching the looped portion to the garment. The strap member also has an adjustment mechanism located at a point where the looped portion joins the non-looped portion. The adjustment mechanism allows the strap member to be adjusted in length. Lastly, the strap member includes an attachment mechanism located on said non-looped portion which allows the strap member to be opened and closed.

Abstract: Briefs includes an upper opening for a waist, two leg holes for legs, and a long pouch formed between the upper opening and the two leg holes and having a length extending up and beyond the upper opening so that the penis of a wearer may still be kept straight not bent or restricted therein even when erected.

Abstract: A protective helmet according to the invention includes an outer shell and a shock-absorbing cap arranged within the shell, the shell being formed by a thin shell. The shell is covered, at least locally, by a panel made of a flexible material, the panel being stretched against the shell and connected thereto at least one seam line along one of its edges. According to the manufacturing method, the outer shell is made, a panel of flexible material is prepared, the outer shell is then covered with the panel by at least one seam between an edge of the panel and the shell, and the inside of the shell is then fitted with the cap.

Abstract: NECK MOLDER is a holder for the front part of the neck (area of the double chin). The purpose of the invention is to help to fortify, and help avoid double chin. It helps to fix the position of the neck. By its flexible design allowing it to adapt to your neck in a confortable way.It is easy to use and to help accommodate to your neck (area of the double chin) and the elastic bands are placed over one's ears. With the neck molder you can exercise your double chin muscles, and before wearing it, you can put your favorite beauty products on it, to help your skin become smooth. By wearing it it can help you to get better posture in your neck.

Abstract: A flushable toddler urinal comprising a housing having a front basin for receiving urine, a top opening, and a front opening located under the front basin, a removable water talc assembly, a waste tray slidably received in the front opening, and an adjustable mount assembly removably attached in a back surface of the housing for adjusting the height of the toddler urinal.

Abstract: An automated toilet seat assembly includes a motorized actuation mechanism for raising and/or lowering a toilet seat Independent spring arrangements are preferably deployed so as to independently counterbalance the seat and lid, thereby minimizing the load on the motor even when lifting both the seat and the lid together.

Abstract: A flush valve assembly of the present invention includes a body subassembly in operable communication with a movable poppet seal subassembly via a guide rod of a predetermined length. The body subassembly inlet is substantially located above the tank floor, thereby reducing available tank discharge volume. The poppet subassembly includes a float having upper and lower float covers with an annular seal disposed therebetween. The poppet subassembly remains coaxially and slidably mounted with respect to the body subassembly so as to create a valve opening therebetween when the poppet subassembly is removed from its initial closed position to a second open position. Guide structure in the body subassembly accommodates reciprocatable movement of the guide rod and inhibits deviation of the guide rod from a predetermined axial guide path when the poppet subassembly is in use during a flush cycle. An optional valve bracket may be provided.

Abstract: Provided is an air-mixing nozzle for a bidet. The air-mixing nozzle for a bidet includes: a cleaning tip and a bidet tip having air-mixing means disposed at ends of a cleaning cylinder and a bidet cylinder each having a cleaning water ejection port and a bidet water ejection port to mix air using a pressure difference generated during ejection of the cleaning water; and a drive member having a belt and a gear meshed with each other to reciprocate the cleaning cylinder and the bidet cylinder. Therefore, it is possible to prevent foreign substances from being stuck to the bidet, and reduce the number of components by operating the cleaning cylinder and the bidet cylinder using the single belt driven by the gear, thereby improving productivity thereof.

Abstract: Devices and assemblies are disclosed for reducing the number of transfers required for bathroom related activities including in home transport, showering, and toileting by use of attachment rails that permit sliding above bath tub and shower stall threshold barriers.

Abstract: A water jet assembly for in-ground pools or spas that includes a first chamber with a water inlet and a second chamber with an air inlet and a plurality of water outlets. Water and air flow from the respective inlets to the water outlet such that a water-jet effect is achieved.

Abstract: This is a storage compartment for items that are commonly used in the shower. The device is designed to fit within a cavity of the shower wall and a means to prevent water intrusion is provided. A series of compartments in which toiletry items may be stored is provided as well as a means to heat the areas of the device by diverting some of the hot water from the shower.

Abstract: A padded bathtub bar has resilient gripping feet and is adjustable in length by turning an actuating wheel. The pad is removable, and the bar may be washed in the dishwasher, as it has no metal parts. The bar may be placed in a variety of locations to allow various comfortable and stable bathing positions. The removable pads may come in a variety of sizes and configurations. The bathtub bar is lengthened and shortened by converting rotational movement of a hand rotation wheel into translational movement of an inner translation cylinder. As the hand rotation wheel is turned in one direction an attached threaded actuation rod turns as well. As it rotates within a threaded translation nut, the nut, the attached inner translation cylinder and one of the feet are caused to translate outward. Turning the hand wheel in the other direction retracts these elements and shortens the bathtub bar. A removable foot assembly is inserted into an end of the inner translation cylinder.

Abstract: An installation unit with a profile or a profile surface and with a hand shower, which is held displaceably thereon and to which a shower hose leads, has a lateral slit on one side. The shower hose is led from the rear side of the profile surface through the lateral slit and runs from there in a groove-like depression up to the hand shower.

Abstract: The nature of our invention is the permanent attachment of a tank which contains a pump with a discharge pipe and a floating lever switch to the bottom of a utility sink to provide for the elimination of restriction of the placement of the utility sink above the discharge waste water system which always requires gravity for the flow of the liquid in the sink. The invention allows for locating the utility sink with a washer and dryer at any level in a building eliminating the restriction of always maintaining the use of gravity for discharge of sink liquids.

Abstract: A faucet light-effect module is disclosed. The device comprises a housing, a spring switch, an electro-magnetic control module. The device produces a different color water stream based on the temperature of the water detected by the module.

Abstract: An infant bed construction for co-sleeping in the same bed as an adult is comprised of a frame that includes a head end wall, two side walls, and a base panel. A safety bar to protect the area of the head of the infant includes an arched member having opposed ends secured in a pair of mounting brackets on opposed side walls. The legs of the safety bar are releasably joined to the mounting brackets, and the safety bar may be pivoted from a generally vertical protective placement over the head of the infant, to a forward storage position that is adjacent to the head end wall of the infant bed. A safety bar key/keyway mounting arrangement is oriented so that the safety bar will pull out of the mounting brackets if the safety bar is pulled upwardly. As a result, the construction of the infant bed prevents using the safety bar as a handle for lifting the infant bed.

Abstract: A sleep mat assembly for supporting bedding and a pillow from a sleep structure and facilitating transportation of the bedding and the pillow comprising a main panel and a pocket panel. The pocket panel is attached to the main panel to define a pocket chamber. The sleep mat assembly operates in a sleep mode and in a transportation mode. In the sleep mode, the sleep mat assembly is arranged substantially between the support structure and bedding and between the support structure and the pillow. In the transportation mode, the sleep mat assembly is folded up to at least partly contain the bedding and the pillow to facilitate transportation of the bedding, pillow, and sleep mat assembly.

Abstract: A mattress display vehicle has a curbside side door that opens to a central display area. Large windows visually open the space and an independent power source enables a heating or air-conditioning unit to be operated when the vehicle engine is turned off. A rack extends between the fore and aft storage areas. One of the storage areas has a relatively tall storage compartment and can be used for storing king-sized mattresses, and the other storage has horizontal storage slots stacked with a shorter storage compartment. Two dollies can be shuttled back and forth between lower storage compartments in the storage areas, carrying different mattresses to the prospective purchaser. The dolly has telescoping members that slide in and out of cross members at each end of the dolly. Lateral bed rails are mounted on the ends of the telescoping members, and can be locked in different positions for mattresses of different widths using locking pins.

Abstract: A combined wall treatment and bed, that is, a unit which resembles a decorative wall treatment, such as a painting, when in the upright and stowed position, but which can be lowered to provide a comfortable bed. When the unit is in the upright and stowed position its appearance is that of a thin (4½?) wall treatment, the thickness of a large painting, and thus consumes practically no living space. A fixed component can be attached to any standard wall construction without modification; it supports the lower edge of a movable portion and defines an axis about which the movable portion pivots to provide a functional and comfortable bed. The fixed component of the unit comprises a lower horizontal element to conceal the support and pivot mechanism, and forms the lower component of a frame visually surrounding the center of the wall treatment; the corresponding upper element conceals a set of legs supporting the upper edge of the movable portion of the unit when in the lowered position.

Abstract: A mattress foundation has a modular configuration that permits the mattress foundation to be packaged in an unassembled state, in a relatively compact shipping container. The mattress foundation can be used to elevate a mattress with or without the use of a frame.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an infant sleeper for keeping infants warm which contains an inner fabric panel; an outer fabric panel sewn or otherwise joined to the inner fabric panel to define a layered fabric panel having a top edge and a bottom edge, where at least one portion of the bottom edge is folded over a second portion of the bottom edge and sewn or otherwise joined thereto, defining a folded edge in the layered fabric panel; and a closure for releasably attaching one side of the layered fabric panel to the folded edge of the layered fabric panel.

Abstract: The weighted octagonal beach towel, includes a flexible base made of towel material, having a generally octagonal periphery with eight major sides and each of the eight major sides having an elongated sealed pocket adjacent its periphery. It also includes eight separate rope segments, one of each being contained within one of each of the elongated sealed pockets. The eight major sides are preferably equal in length to one another. In many preferred embodiments, the weighted octagonal beach towel has an imaginary center point and the distance between opposite major sides is within the range of about 5.5 feet to about 7.5 feet, with about 7 feet being preferred.

Abstract: It has been discovered that the above problems, which had been left unsolved

Abstract: A reclining table comprising a stationary reclining plate and a back rest pivotally connected to it. A supporting member pivotally connected to said reclining plate near its free end serves for supporting said back rest in various angular positions. Said supporting member has a number of lateral slots for receiving lips of a supporting plate being pivotally connected to said back rest and in that case engaging said back rest. The supporting member is able to support the back rest at an angle of 15° at the most, for example. Beyond that, said supporting plate can be used, which will then cooperate with grooves provided on the reclining plate for supporting the back rest at angles larger than the maximum angle first mentioned. Supporting member and supporting plate are collapsed onto the reclining plate when said back rest is to be brought to the horizontal position.

Abstract: A bed foundation may be retrofitted or otherwise converted in the field to include one or more additional function. In one illustrative embodiment, the bed foundation may be retrofitted or otherwise converted by incorporating a drop-in articulation unit. Such an articulation unit may permit a user to raise and/or lower the head of their bed. In some cases, a second articulation unit may be placed at the foot of a bed foundation to permit the user to independently raise and/or lower the head and the foot of their bed. In other illustrative embodiments, drop-in units may add other functions to existing bed foundations. In some cases, the bed foundation and/or drop-in units may be configured such that it can be easily shipped and assembled in the field by a user.

Abstract: A bed including a frame, a deck coupled to the frame and a communication network located on the bed has at least two modules connected to the network, at least one of those modules being able to provide an alarm message to the bed communication network.

Abstract: A cushion for use by a person, the cushion having a main portion and a subsidiary portion joined to the main portion. The main portion and the subsidiary portion have unequal volumes wherein a part of the main portion is adapted to be placed between the legs of the person while the person is lying on a side of the person, and the subsidiary portion is adapted to support the abdomen of the person while the person is lying on the person's side.

Abstract: An infant support system for supporting an infant while feeding, sleeping, and changing. The infant support system includes a support base enclosed by a protective wall. A repositionable panel is provided in the wall, which folds away to the outer side of the protective wall to expose two wedge-shaped infant supports that are removed to open up a recess in the support base. The support base can then be pulled around the torso of the mother. The infant supports may be used to support the infant in a sloping position in front of the mother for feeding. The two wedge-shaped infant supports fill in the recess to provide an even sleep surface for baby.

Abstract: A support system including a cushion or pad having a foam core and cover is disclosed. The support system is capable of taking a variety of different shapes and can be adjusted for firmness. The support system may be used during and after surgery and more generally, any time when it is desirable to utilize a sterilizable, adjustable cushion. Additionally, multiple cushions may be used in a variety of combinations at any one time.

Abstract: A surgical table width extender having an angled tang structure for engaging the gap formed between a standard table and its stand-off-mounted side rail. The tang structure contacts portions of the rail and portions of the table edge to enhance the load-carrying capability of the table side rail assembly. The extender further provides its own stand-off-mounted rail and a quick release clamp for securing the extender to the table. The tang structure is formed to allow a single extender to be used on either side of a surgical table where the stand-offs are not evenly spaced apart. The extender body is formed from a lightweight, strong carbon fiber composite material. Further enhancements protect exposed corners of the extender and protect potential high stress surfaces. An angularly orientable attachment is provided for use when two width extenders are used simultaneously on opposite sides of the table. In a lowered, horizontal orientation the attachment acts as a table length extender.

Abstract: The invention discloses differing embodiments of apparatus, and methods for their use, which are designed to aide in lifting bed mattresses and tucking in bed covers. In some embodiments, kits are disclosed which include wedge apparatus for lifting bed mattresses, and tuck apparatus for tucking in bed covers. In other embodiments, wedge apparatus for lifting portions of bed mattresses are disclosed. In still other embodiments, tuck apparatus for tucking in bed covers are provided. Additional embodiments disclose methods for using the kits, wedge apparatus, and tuck apparatus.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the digital bed system is comprised of an array of support cells. Each support cells is capable of communicating with a controller and increasing and decreasing in firmness in response to commands issued by a controller. The support cells are operatively connected to a communication channel that is also connected to a controller. The controller is capable of receiving data from the support cells and is also capable of issuing commands to each of the support cells. The controller is programmed issue commands to increase or decrease the firmness of individual support cells within the support cells.

Abstract: A method for brightening kaolin clays and other minerals by combining sodium borohydride, sodium hydroxide and sodium bisulfite, in a chemical mixer and adding the output of the chemical mixer to the slurry of kaolin clays.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method for treating textile materials providing said textile materials with a soft feel, absence of yellowing and good hydrophily, which consists in contacting the textile materials with a composition comprising at least a linear, cyclic or three-dimensional polyorganosiloxane of formula (I), wherein: the symbols Z, identical or different, represent R1, and/or V; and the symbols V represent a group of sterically hindered piperidinyl function(s).

Abstract: A subject-matter of the present invention is the use, in the colouring of keratinous fibres, of a specific anionic hydrotropic agent of formula: in which X represents CH or N, n represents an integer varying from 0 to 12, R1 represents COOM or SO3M, R2 represents a hydroxyl or a C1-C4 alkyl, R3 represents hydrogen or a C1-C4 alkyl, R2 and R3 can together form a ring and M represents hydrogen or one or more inorganic cations providing the electrical neutrality of the compound of formula (I). The invention likewise relates to a dyeing composition comprising at least one dye and such an anionic hydrotrope and to colouring processes employing this dyeing composition.

Abstract: A method for permanently modifying a color of keratinous fibres which comprises the steps of:—first providing a mixture of three compositions A, B and C, wherein said composition A comprises at least a reducing agent and optionally a coloring compound, said composition B comprises at least an alkalizing compound and said composition C comprises at least an oxidizing compound:—applying said mixture to keratinous fibres for a suitable period of time for modifying the color of said keratinous fibres: and—removing said mixture from said keratinous fibres.

Abstract: A contoured insole construction is a single-piece insole construction which is contoured at about a foot receiving area thereof including an integrally formed raised foot receiving base region bounded by a lower outer lip perimeter region. In an alternative embodiment, the single-piece insole construction which is contoured at about the foot receiving area thereof includes a raised outer lip perimeter region and a lowered foot-receiving base region bounded by said raised outer lip perimeter region.

Abstract: A dock leveler sealing system that includes a barrier configured to be attached to a dock leveler and a hinged region located in the barrier and configured to facilitate one portion of the barrier moving with respect to a second portion of the barrier. The dock leveler sealing system also includes a biasing apparatus attached to the barrier and configured to position the first portion of the barrier at a bias relative to the second portion of the barrier. Also, a method of providing a seal between a loading dock and an area outside of the loading dock.

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 powered, mechanical teeth cleaning device having two lines of rotating brushes is disclosed. The brushes rotate inwardly from each side, giving a cleaning effect on both buccal and lingual surface of the tooth from the gum tissue to the tooth direction. A protective shield for minimizing tissue irritation, a guiding stop for proper tooth positioning and a brush direction-of-rotation switch are included.

Abstract: A coverage robot includes a chassis, a drive system, and a cleaning assembly. The cleaning assembly includes a housing and at least one driven cleaning roller including an elongated core with end mounting features defining a central longitudinal axis of rotation, multiple floor cleaning bristles extending radially outward from the core, and at least one compliant flap extending radially outward from the core to sweep a floor surface. The flap is configured to prevent errant filaments from spooling tightly about the core to aid subsequent removal of the filaments. In another aspect, a coverage robot includes a chassis, a drive system, a controller, and a cleaning assembly. The cleaning assembly includes a housing and at least one driven cleaning roller. The coverage robot includes a roller cleaning tool carried by the chassis and configured to longitudinally traverse the roller to remove accumulated debris from the cleaning roller.

Abstract: Interdental brush device and container combination comprises a longitudinal container and an interdental brush device disposed within the container. The interdental brush device comprises a handle; a first interdental brush disposed at one end of the handle; an extension removably secured to the other end of the handle; a second interdental brush disposed at the other end of the handle; and a second cap removably enclosing the second brush. The extension is hollow with an open end for being removably secured to the one end as a first cap.

Abstract: An oral care implement with a handle includes a head with a tissue cleanser. The tissue cleanser may be a pad composed of an elastomeric material. The pad is disposed on the head on a surface opposite the tooth cleaning elements. The tissue cleanser may include a plurality of nubs extending for cleaning between the papillae of the tongue. The tissue cleanser may include a plurality of conically shaped nubs. A tissue cleanser can be used to reduce oral malodor problems and remove oral epithelial cells.