Abstract: A trash receptacle includes a receptacle body, a lid, and a first locking mechanism for securing the lid to the receptacle body. The first locking mechanism includes a locking element coupled to one of the lid or receptacle body and a locking aperture coupled to the other of the lid or receptacle body. The locking element engages the locking aperture to secure the lid to the receptacle body. The receptacle may include a second locking mechanism including a strap and a pair of connecting members coupled to the receptacle body. The ends of the strap are coupled to the connecting members such that the strap tightly engages the lid to secure the lid to the receptacle body. Each of the first and second locking mechanisms may be used alone with a receptacle, or alternatively may be used in combination to provide additional securement of the lid.

Abstract: A trash receptacle comprising an entrance in a wall adapted to receive a disposable, lightweight, and preferably plastic cartridge is disclosed. The cartridge is adapted to dispose its center of gravity in a manner that maintains the cartridge within the wall entrance under its own empty weight. The cartridge may further receive a disposable bag to maintain sterility. The bag can be held in place by a sealing device, such as an O-ring, which, in one embodiment, snaps over said bag onto said cartridge, said O-ring or other sealing device preferably color-coded to indicate the type of waste to be disposed in said cartridge. The cartridge is also adapted to receive a plug to allow disposal of sharps. If a bag breaks, the cartridge may be sealed and disposed of, thereby maintaining a sanitary and sterile environment. The receptacles may be arrayed in a wall, thereby providing a convenient waste disposal system that does not interfere with critical working space.

Abstract: A container for transporting or storing raisins or other sticky produce features a flexible membrane secured within a container structure which has a base and four walls. The flexible membrane is secured within the container structure so as to overlie a major part of the base, such that, when the container is filled with sticky produce and inverted, the flexible membrane peels away from the sticky produce, thereby releasing the sticky produce while the flexible membrane itself remains secured within the container structure for subsequent use.

Abstract: A beverage hold and transport system is described typically for transporting a plurality of cups of coffee or other beverages. In one system, one or more trays can be suspended from an upper tray that is adapted to be carried by a person using a single hand thereby increasing the number of beverages the person can transport. In another system, a mechanism for removably attaching a container to the bottom of the tray is provided such that any spills from the beverages contained in the tray are directed into the container and not on to a surface therebelow.

Abstract: A combination oil filter preload storage pan and drain pan includes a pan with a series of differentially sized openings in the top cover thereof and support ribs arrayed within the pan on the base for support of preloaded filters or filters which are to be drained.

Abstract: A steam-table pan having a pinch-gripping bead including a gripping-skirt which is configured and vertically dimensioned for pinch-gripping of the bead with an adult's fingers to raise the pan from the steam-table.

Abstract: The invention is a method for removing a steam-table pan from a steam table, the method including providing a steam-table pan with a specially configured upper edge region which is a pinch-gripping bead that includes a gripping-skirt configured and vertically dimensioned, along with the upper portion of the pan wall, for pinch-gripping of the bead with an adult's fingers to raise the pan from the steam table. The removing is by engaging the pinch-gripping bead between the person's thumb and index and/or middle finger(s) and lifting the pan from the opening in the top of the steam table with such pinch-gripping.

Abstract: A disposable, fireproof receptacle for combustible debris for use in a cigarette receptacle is disclosed. The liner may be made from a metallic foil or other inexpensive, fire resistant material. The liner may be used in combination with or without a pail inside the receptacle. The metallic foil makes the liner resistant to fire and is inexpensive enough to also be disposable. When filled with debris the liner can be removed and sealed to allow convenient, safe disposal of the grimy and potentially hot debris inside the liner.

Abstract: A double walled container is provided for insulating a beverage. An outer insulating shell or container is secured to the inner container that holds the beverage. A gap exists between the outer container and inner container and the air in the gap acts as an insulating barrier. The inner container is preferably a standard aluminum container. The outer container is preferably made from aluminum or a plastic polymer.

Abstract: The invention is a temporary cover for a paint can's rim, for protecting the rim from paint or liquid while pouring. The invention is substantially similar lengthwise/an extruded part. An embodiment's cross-section (FIG. 15) can be a substantially C-shaped portion (27) plus a substantially narrow-tipped elongated flat portion (from 24 to 26), for a total shape like a “b”, with the b's circular section being open on the front like a “c”. When the cup portion is pressed/secured on to a paint can rim: the cup's open side faces substantially peripherally and/or downward and the tip of the elongated portion faces substantially upwardly (FIG. 23). The invention can be made a size and shape to also be stored on a can's metal wire paint can handle (handle positioned inside of the C-shaped cup). Placed on the can handle, the cover can add handle cushioning for carrying the paint can.

Abstract: An opening assembly that provides a beverage can with the ability to be closed once opened. The opening assembly allows a user to open and close a beverage can while protecting the integrity of the can, thus providing an improved beverage can that has the ability to seal-in carbonation.

Abstract: A medicine supply device is capable of dispensing an appropriate dose of medicine even when used by for a patient with dementia living alone who is unaware of presence of medicine to be taken, by calling attention of the patient on a phone. The medicine supply device has an animal shape overall so that the patient can know immediately. The medicine dose in a PTP package is held individually between an open hole in the upper plate 6 having appropriate elasticity and a lower plate 8 having an outfall opening, the upper plate 6 is automatically rotated when a time becomes that set in a 24-hour time 4, and a medicine then is deliver to the outfall opening, thus a dose of a medicine is supplied to the medicine tray 16 by gravity.

Abstract: An automatic dispenser for dispensing lengths of paper for use as hand towels, includes an IR sensor system for detecting a user. The sensor system scans at a first scanning rate and also at a second higher scanning rate. When the sensor system detects a user, it changes the scanning rate from the first to the second rate. The dispenser aims at reducing power consumption while providing improved reaction time when required to dispense paper.

Abstract: A device for singulating open-ended caps includes: a housing configured to retain a plurality of open-ended caps, the housing having an open lower end; an outer ring positioned below the housing; a drum fixed to and positioned within the outer ring to form a drum assembly, the drum including a hub having a substantially circular wall and a platform that extends radially outwardly from the wall to contact the outer ring, the hub and outer ring forming a circular gap therebetween, the platform being positioned below much of the gap and including a discontinuity; a mounting stricture with an exit aperture fixed relative to the housing; and a rotary drive unit mounted to the drum that rotates the drum assembly about an axis of rotation.

Abstract: A facial tissue dispenser includes a first compartment sized to receive a supply of facial tissues, and a lower supporting surface including an opening facilitating a serial dispensing of the facial tissues. A second compartment coupled to the first compartment provides a supply of trash bags. A connector coupled to an exterior surface of one of the first and second compartments supports one of the trash bags in a trash-receiving attitude. A supporting element supports the dispenser and trash bag at a convenient height for use by children.

Abstract: A sanitary tissue dispensing system has a tissue dispensing box and a plastic bag dispenser. Soiled tissues are individually contained in single plastic bags that are folded to contain consumed tissue. Upon being placed and contained within the single plastic bags, the consumed tissue can be disposed of in a trash can without contact between consumed tissues with other persons. Spread of infection by bacteria, virus or fungi otherwise caused by contact with soiled tissue is substantially prevented. A folded plastic bag containing soiled tissue is, alternatively, inserted into a second bag, which is also folded prior to disposal.

Abstract: An improved can/bottle vending mechanism made from self-lubricating thermoplastic resin, that includes a positionable wall and ramp that aligns bottles and cans for reliable dispensing during a vend, regardless of can or bottle dimensions within a rage is disclosed.

Abstract: A vapor-dispersing device comprising a moveable piston with a porous protuberance is described that operates by the repetitive movement of the piston to intermittently dip the porous member into a volatile liquid and to expel air out through vents.

Abstract: A dose setting module and method for use with an injection device, the module including at least one sensor element and at least one sensor actuating element, wherein the at least one sensor element and at least one sensor actuating element at least partially overlap along the longitudinal axis of the injection device and can be moved into at least one position in which they at least partially overlap in the circumferential direction of the injection device, and wherein the at least one sensor element generates a magnetic field and, in the at least one position, the at least one sensor actuating element causes a change in the magnetic field.

Abstract: A water circulation system for distributing bottled fluid to a remote location.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing food products at an elevated temperature includes a housing for supporting and heating a container of food product located within the housing and a pump for moving the food product from the container to a location external to the housing. One or more actuators are operatively connected to the pump and are selectively configurable to operate the pump in a first momentary state for dispensing the food product while the actuator is actuated and a second timed state for dispensing the food product for a predetermined period of time. An interlock device is provided to disable the pump when the housing is opened.

Abstract: A liquid dispensing device includes a base with a well disposed one of within and on a center portion of such base for receiving and securing a bottle. The well including a sealing mechanism. A vent mechanism has a first portion disposed one of within and on such base and a second portion extends into a bottle from a neck of such bottle. A third portion is connected at a first end thereof to such second portion adjacent the neck and at a second end thereof to the first portion. The third portion is further connected to a valve mechanism communicating a flow of air into the valve mechanism and interrupting such flow of air in a second position. A fluid dispensing mechanism has a first dispensing portion in fluid communication with the well and a second dispensing portion in a position for dispensing liquid into a predetermined container.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a dispensing device for dispensing a liquid, in particular in foam form, comprising at least one piston pump having a cylinder (6) and a piston (8) which can move inside the cylinder (6), the piston comprising a piston seal, by means of which the piston adjoins the cylinder in a substantially sealing manner. The invention is characterized in that the dispensing device is provided with a lubricant reservoir (17) for dispensing a lubricant in order for the area where the piston seal adjoins the cylinder to be lubricated in use.

Abstract: A dispenser with a sealed dispensing valve unit is disclosed. The dispenser is secured to a mouth of a hermetic casing, and discharges contents through a center of an upper plate of a button. The dispenser includes an outlet hole (100) bored in a central portion of the button. An inclined inner surface defines a lower portion of the outlet hole, and a vertical inner surface extends from an upper end of the inclined inner surface to a predetermined height. The dispenser also includes a dispensing valve (200) having at a lower portion thereof an inclined outer surface to selectively come into contact with the inclined inner surface of the outlet hole due to operation of a pumping means, thus opening or closing the outlet hole. Further, a vertical outer surface extends upwards from an upper end of the inclined outer surface to a predetermined height.

Abstract: A pump dispenser has a large ergonomic actuator designed to ergonomically deliver a composition to a substrate in the consumer's hand without the consumer having to pick up the pump dispenser. The ergonomic design allows the composition to be delivered in a proper aspect ratio to the substrate. The composition can be delivered in such a way that the composition is not aerosolized into the air or delivered to an unintended surface. The method of delivery can be made intuitive to the consumer by providing an actuator skirt that suggests the pumping mechanism or by providing a depiction of a hand or substrate over the pump dispenser. The pump dispenser is also useful for compositions or substrates that are not stable together. The pump dispenser may be designed with refill bottle fitment such that only certain refill bottles may fit into the pump dispenser.

Abstract: A siphon device facilitates the removal of liquids from botanical containers, without requiring the removal, destruction, or alteration of botanical materials that may be contained therein. The siphon device comprises a first segment of tubing, a second segment of tubing coupled to the first segment of tubing, and a bulb coupled to the second segment of tubing. Inlet and outlet openings in the first segment of tubing allow liquids to be drawn into and released out of the siphon device. A first end of the first segment of tubing may be inserted into a botanical container holding liquid, such as a vase, urn, bottle, etc. Squeezing of the bulb forces air out of the bulb. Releasing of the bulb causes liquid to be drawn up through the first end and out of a second end of the first segment of tubing, thereby removing the liquid from the botanical container. The second end may be positioned in a disposal area, such as a sink, bucket, etc., in order to collect the liquid removed from the botanical container.

Abstract: While looking at the outside physical characteristics of a dry portioner it appears that there are like items available today. It is the internal elements that cause this device to be unique. These elements enable consistent portioning or measuring and dispensing of a dry item. One unique element is the properties and existence of the inside storage hopper. This inside storage hopper allows for hands free measuring while the cone funnel bottom to the hopper not only helps facilitate the measuring or portioning but directly contribute to moving dry items portioned to the dispensing holes. When inverted the cone funnel now has slopes of a contrary degree which lead the dry item portioned down, if there was a flat bottom to the inside hopper not all the dry item would be moved to the dispensing holes, yielding an inconsistent measure. In refillable versions the double sealed ring is unique and necessary to the performance of the device. A handle does not make this dry portioner unique.

Abstract: A dense and non-buoyant tube with spring-like action for use with a liquid-dispensing container and sprayer mechanism is configured with a flat transversely-cut end that includes an aperture in it, referred to as a vacuum-lock regulator valve, whereby the end of the tube is unable to create a complete suction attachment to the bottom of the container. The spring-like tube of the present invention is also provided as part of an assemblage, the tube being used within a method for retrofitting liquid-dispensing containers of original manufacture.

Abstract: This invention relates to a regulator 6 for regulating flow of a liquid from a dispenser 1 that dispenses the liquid from a container 3 containing the liquid 4. The regulator has an inlet 9 to receive the dispensed liquid and an exit 16 through which the liquid is delivered to the user. The inlet 9 receives the liquid receives the liquid at a first speed and delivers it to the user at a second speed which is substantially less than the first speed. The invention also encompasses a dispenser for dispensing the liquid including such a regulator.

Abstract: A stopper device for controlling a flow of molten metal at an outlet opening of a metallurgical vessel, said device comprising: a) a rod like body (12) with a longitudinal axis (A) and made of a refractory ceramic material, b) an elongated bore hole (14) extending from an upper surface of said body (12) towards its opposite lower end, wherein c) said bore hole (14) being equipped, at least at its portion adjacent the lower end of the body (12), with at least one fixing means (16) adapted to receive corresponding fixing means (18) of a refractory ceramic part (20, 22, 38) to be fixed at the lower end of the body (12).

Abstract: A shoulder guard attachment for use with a hanger having a hooked neck and upper support regions angling outwardly away therefrom. The shoulder guard attachment comprises a rigid base having an open J-shape when viewed from the side and being substantially arcuate in cross-section. The base has a narrower first end with a smaller radius of curvature and a wider second end having a larger radius of curvature. A locking clip extends inwardly from an inner surface of the base and is provided with a slot that interlocking receives the support region of the hanger therein. The base preferably is snap-fitted onto the hanger to provide a wider and more gently-curved profile to the support regions thereof so that different types of garments can be adequately supported thereon and puckers and dimples in the shoulder area of the garment will be substantially eliminated.

Abstract: A needle threader includes a flat handle portion and a thread-introducing loop portion extending from the handle portion. The thread-introducing loop portion includes a folded insertion edge at a tip for insertion into an eye of a needle. The thread-introducing loop portion includes a plate member having a first end, a second end, and a narrow band portion integrally connecting between the first and second ends. The narrow band portion has the folded insertion edge at a lengthwise center. The first end and the second end of the plate member are laid one on another and held in the handle portion. The narrow band portion is exposed from the handle portion to form the thread-introducing loop portion.

Abstract: A pack with a hydration system is disclosed. The hydration system includes a reservoir and a hose. The reservoir comprises a front side and a rear side that maintain a fixed cross section as liquid is filled and/or drained from the reservoir. Also, as the reservoir empties, the rear side contracts towards the front side, which displaces the center of mass of the reservoir closer to a wearer's back.

Abstract: Disclosed is a load carrier made up of a flat tray like body which attaches to a vehicle by load bars. A cargo container attaches to the flat tray-like load carrier body, and is locked in one of several possible positions on the flat tray-like body. The load container may also be removed and the load carrier used without the cargo container. Devices for holding objects such as bicycles, canoes, kayaks, may also be attached to the load carrier.

Abstract: An apparatus for carrying a golf bag on a motorcycle is disclosed. The apparatus hereby satisfies the need of motorcycle enthusiasts to include their interest of golf with motorcycling, and which provides a balanced, easily mountable carrier for a golf bag that does not modify the motorcycle in an unsafe fashion. This apparatus is mounted directly into pre-existing rear side quick release bracket system (typically found on Harley Davidson Motorcycles) and will extend perpendicularly upward from each bracket to a given height above the rear fender. The golf bag will then rest on a secure mounting area. This apparatus will ensure the golf bag is situated in a balanced setting, along the motorcycle longitudinal centerline. This ensures a safe, comfortable ride for the cyclist.

Abstract: A shirt, blouse, jacket, coat or similar article of clothing includes straps on the rearward portion of the sleeves, immediately below the elbow. This allows the adult user to grasp the strap on the left sleeve with the right hand and grasp the strap on the right sleeve with the left hand in order to securely hold a baby or small child and shift the burden from the adult user's biceps to the triceps, hands and wrists.

Abstract: The present invention relates and provides a versatile multi use bag which can be configured to serve as a shoulder-side or frontal suspended carrying bag, or as a neck suspended carrying bag or as a rucksack. The bag being a multi-compartment carrying bag and rucksack, comprising a multi-compartment openable body to contain whatever items are to be transported by the user, an extended-length strap with means at both ends thereof whereby the strap can be releasably anchored to the body of the bag. A tunnel-like portion attached proximate to an edge of the body wherethrough the strap can be inserted; and at least two spaced-apart anchor points positioned proximate to the outer perimeter of the body whereto the strap ends may be releasably attached.

Abstract: A combustion nailer configured for reducing intake of contaminated air during operation, includes a combustion engine having a cylinder with a piston reciprocating between a prefiring position and a fully extended position, and at least one air port in the cylinder below the fully extended position. The at least one air port is provided with a venting check valve configured so that the discharge volume from the cylinder out the at least one air port is greater than the inflow.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a cutting member having a cutting surface, wherein the cutting member is relatively movable with respect to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In at least one embodiment, the anvil is movable between an open position and a partially-closed position. When the anvil is in its partially-closed position, the anvil and the staple cartridge can be configured to capture tissue therebetween without fully compressing the tissue. In at least one embodiment, the anvil includes a proximal portion, a distal portion, and a middle portion intermediate the proximal portion and the distal portion. In these embodiments, the tissue can be captured between the proximal and distal portions of the anvil before the middle portion of the anvil is brought into contact with the tissue.

Abstract: In various embodiments of the present invention, a piece of buttress material can be configured to match a curved profile of the anvil and/or staple cartridge of a surgical stapler. In at least one embodiment, the piece of buttress material can include first and second edges extending between first and second ends. In these embodiments, the first edge can be defined by a first radius of curvature and the second edge can be defined by a second radius of curvature wherein the second radius of curvature is larger than the first radius of curvature. In at least one embodiment, the anvil and/or staple cartridge can include a surface configured for receiving a piece of buttress material thereon and a lip which at least partially extends along the periphery thereof wherein the lip can be configured to reduce relative movement between the piece of buttress material and the surface.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a curved end-effector which is configured to deploy staples in at least one curved staple line. In various embodiments, the surgical stapler includes a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a cutting member having a cutting surface wherein the cutting member is relatively movable with respect to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In one embodiment, the staple cartridge can be configured to deploy staples along different, non-parallel axes. As a result, the staples can be deployed in a significantly curved staple line. In various embodiments, the surgical stapler includes a flexible driver operably engaged with the cutting member to move the cutting member relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In these embodiments, the driver can include an elongate cross-section defined by a width and a height wherein its width is greater, and in some cases, substantially greater, than its height.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a staple cartridge, an anvil, and a cutting member having a cutting surface, wherein the cutting member is relatively movable with respect to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In at least one embodiment, one of the anvil and the staple cartridge defines a slot which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cutting member and guide the cutting member as it is moved relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In these embodiments, the slot can define a path having linear and/or curved portions. In various embodiments, the path can include a curved portion having a first portion that extends away from the shaft axis and a second portion that extends toward the axis. In one embodiment, the path can include a curved portion defined by an arc corresponding to an angle greater than 90 degrees.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a staple cartridge, an anvil, a cutting member having a cutting surface, and a driver operably engaged with the cutting member to move the cutting member relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In at least one embodiment, one of the anvil and the staple cartridge defines a slot which is configured to receive at least a portion of the cutting member and guide the cutting member as it is moved relative to the anvil and the staple cartridge. In these embodiments, the slot can also be configured to receive a portion of the driver operably engaged with cutting member and support the driver when it moves the cutting member. In at least one embodiment, the slot is defined by at least one radius of curvature.

Abstract: The present invention includes a surgical stapler having a curved end-effector which is configured to deploy staples in at least one curved staple line. The surgical stapler can include a staple cartridge configured to removably store staples therein, an anvil configured to deform the staples, and a cutting member having a cutting surface. The staple cartridge and/or anvil can include a curved slot configured for receiving and guiding the cutting member wherein at least a portion of the cutting member can be defined by a curvature that substantially matches the curvature of the slot. In these embodiments, the curved cutting member can be easily moved within the curved slot thereby reducing the possibility that the cutting member will become stuck within the slot.

Abstract: An end effector for a surgical stapler. Various embodiments include a channel configured to operably support a staple cartridge therein. A first tip portion is attached to or formed on a distal end of one of the channel and staple cartridge wherein the first tip portion may have a first upwardly extending curved outer surface. An anvil is movably coupled to the channel and is selectively movable between open and closed positions relative to the staple cartridge in response to opening and closing motions applied to the anvil. A second tip portion is attached to or formed on a distal end thereof. The second tip portion may have a second downwardly extending curved surface such that when the anvil is in the closed position, the second tip portion cooperates with the first tip portion to define a blunt end effector nose. In various embodiments, the end effector nose has a substantially paraboloid outer surface.

Abstract: Disclosed is a copper plating solid wire for MAG welding with excellent arc stability during welding, in which the solid wire for MAG welding is manufactured by high-speed copper plating by being immersed in a copper plating solution to make a plating layer of 0.2-1.0 ?m in thickness, and the plating layer comprises 100-1000 ppm of Fe, an alkali metal (Na), and alkaline earth metals (Mg, Ca) in total wherein the content of the alkali metal (Na) and the alkaline earth metals (Mg, Ca) ranges from 10 ppm to 500 ppm. According to the present invention, the copper plating solid wire for MAG welding with excellent feedability and arc stability during welding can be obtained despite the high-speed plating process.

Abstract: One embodiment of a welding apparatus includes a stationary welding device that defines a stationary weld zone, and a support that moves a weld member through the stationary weld zone.

Abstract: A welding apparatus is disclosed. The welding apparatus includes a torch body comprising at least one core, a plurality of contact tips extending in a direction from the at least one core, and a plurality of gas supply tubes disposed proximate the plurality of contact tips, the plurality of gas supply tubes extending in a substantially similar direction as the plurality of contact tips.

Abstract: A de-soldering tool includes an upper heating device having an upper heating element for applying heat to an upper mating structure, the upper mating structure arranged in a pattern matching contacts in an electrical connecter soldered to a printed wiring board; a lower heating device having a lower heating element for applying heat to a lower mating structure, the lower mating structure arranged in a pattern matching the solder connections on the underside of the PWB; a controller applying power to the upper heating element and the lower heating element to liquefy solder on the contacts in the electrical connecter.

Abstract: A versatile packaging box for products, which can be folded into a book cover or an envelope for the contained book, is disclosed. On its front, rear, left and right vertical panels a folding line whose position is adapted to the thickness of the contained book is respectively provided. The front, rear, left and right vertical panels are provided with foldable end panels. The height of the part of the left and right vertical panels above the fold line and below the end panel and the length of end panel add up to the length of the front cover of said book. When the end panel is folded onto the inner side of the rear and front vertical panels, the height of the part of the rear and front vertical panel above the fold line and below the end panel is equal to the width of the front cover of said book. The packaging box has the advantages as follows: making full use of the used packaging box, beautifying and protecting the contained book, and reducing waste.