Patents Issued in March 11, 2010
  • Publication number: 20100058507
    Abstract: A fabric for protecting a wearer thereof from an energy weapon. The fabric is made of a plurality of coupled strands. Bach strand is made from at least two fibers, an electrically non-conductive fiber and an electrically conductive fiber. The electrically non-conductive fiber at least partially encloses the electrically conductive fiber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Russell Schultz
  • Publication number: 20100058508
    Abstract: Convertible swimwear comprising a top piece and extendable bottom piece; the top piece having a plurality of fasteners along the lower portion thereof and the extendable bottom piece having a plurality of corresponding fasteners along the upper edge thereof to be releasably secured to the fasteners on the lower portion of the top piece. The position of the fasteners may be reversed. The bottom piece further includes a string component secured on the upper edge of the bottom piece, where upon releasing of the respective fasteners the string component is pulled away from the lower edge of the bottom piece bringing the upper edge of the bottom piece substantially close to said lower edge of the bottom piece and thereby rolling, folding or scrunching the upper edge of the bottom piece to effectively convert a one piece to two piece style bathing suit. The top piece further includes a cover flap to conceal the fasteners on each respective piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Stephanie Hersh
  • Publication number: 20100058509
    Abstract: The invention relates to an item of clothing, in particular to be worn during sports such as jogging, skating, cycling or similar. Said item of clothing is made of at least one yarn (3) that comprises a heat-reflecting covering (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Bodo W. Lambertz
  • Publication number: 20100058510
    Abstract: An article of apparel with interchangeable appliques with attachment mechanisms that are used to decorate and modify the appearance of the apparel design having one or more detachable decorative elements replaceably coupled thereto, the article of apparel having substantially all exposed cloth surfaces made of a material having a multiplicity of loop elements, the detachable decorative elements having a multiplicity of buttons, snaps and hook elements engaging the loop elements of the material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Pooja Vithlani
  • Publication number: 20100058511
    Abstract: Apparel comprising communications elements which are removably attachable to the apparel, and which may be dynamic in nature. The apparel may comprise fasteners such hook and loop material, snap fasteners, buttons, magnets, and others. The communications elements may comprise graphic elements such as letters, numbers, symbols, and depictions of people, animals, recognizable objects, light emitting elements, sound emitting elements, and any combination of the foregoing elements. The communications elements may comprise corresponding fasteners that enable attachment to and ready removal from the apparel. Light and sound emitting elements may be provided with variable output features, such as variation in light and sound levels, frequency of intermittent operation, and the like. Control of variation may be at the discretion of the person wearing the apparel bearing such light and sound emitting elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Natasha Lee
  • Publication number: 20100058512
    Abstract: A form fitting nursing tank top/undershirt made with a stretch fabric includes an invisible built in nursing bra. The invisible nursing bra is partly internal and partly external. The external portion of the built in nursing bra is the left and right shoulder straps, which from outside appearances form an integral part of the tank top/undershirt. The internal portion of the built in nursing bra is formed by a soft cup frame attached at the bottom to an elastic chest band and attached at the top to the front of the shoulder straps. In the back of the garment, the elastic chest band is attached to an internal back piece of fabric on the inside of the tank top. The internal back piece of fabric extends upward from the elastic chest band to the shoulder straps at the back, which shoulder straps each include an adjustable length section. Internal nursing flaps are attached at the bottom to the soft cup frame and at the top to the tank top body which forms external nursing flaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Line ROTHMAN
  • Publication number: 20100058513
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to a hand covering. More specifically, this invention relates to a hand covering that can be adjusted to vary the conditions inside the hand covering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: 180s, Inc.
    Inventors: Lonnie Drosihn, Greg Meyer
  • Publication number: 20100058514
    Abstract: A headwear piece having a crown with a plurality of gores, including first and second gores, that are joined at a connecting line at a first circumferential location on the crown. The gores cooperatively produce an inverted, cup-shaped receptacle into which a user's head can be directed. The crown has a bottom portion that extends at least partially around a wearer's head to embrace the wearer's head. A sweatband on the crown engages a wearer's head. The first and second gores are stretchable circumferentially away from the connecting line to thereby increase the diameter of the crown. The sweatband has a portion that is locally non-stretchable at the first circumferential location so that the sweatband and first and second gores are circumferentially stretchable together away from the first circumferential location in response to the direction of a user's head, with at least a predetermined effective diameter, into the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Ho-Seong Koh
  • Publication number: 20100058515
    Abstract: A two ply head covering in the form of a triangular scarf or babushka in which a weft of hair is secured to extend directly from the front edge of the babushka between opposing inturned forward edges of the babushka.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Keela F. Castle
  • Publication number: 20100058516
    Abstract: A strap holder adapted to be connected to first and second garment straps, the strap holder comprising a central portion defining a first surface and a second surface, a first end portion comprising inner and outer surfaces defining a first retainer gap, and a second end portion comprising inner and outer surfaces defining a second retainer gap. The first surface of the central portion meets the outer surface of the first end portion and the inner surface of the second end portion. The second surface of the central portion meets the inner surface of the first end portion and the outer surface of the second end portion. The inner surface of the first end portion defines a first engaging portion, and the inner surface of the second end portion defines a second engaging portion. The first strap is arranged within the first retainer gap such that the first garment strap engages the first engaging portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: LARA D. MERRIAM-SMITH
  • Publication number: 20100058517
    Abstract: An underwear garment comprises a front portion and a rear portion which form a pair of boxer shorts, and an underpants portion within the underwear garment. The underpants portion substantially extends at the front portion of the boxer shorts and is connected to the front of the boxer shorts at at least one portion of the upper edge of the front portion of the boxer shorts and at a further portion in the rear thereof, which is arranged between the crotch of the boxer shorts and the upper edge of the rear portion of the boxer shorts. The underpants portion comprises two free sides that are interconnected by containment elastic elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: PEROFIL S.P.A.
    Inventor: Alberto Perolari
  • Publication number: 20100058518
    Abstract: Embodiments provide portable apparatus adapted to accommodate a plurality of persons standing to engage in acts of urination, the portable apparatus including a movable base having a base outer edge, a movable base upper portion having a raised base central portion spaced in an inward direction from the base outer edge, a movable base upper portion including a plurality of spaced floor subsections intermediate a vertical riser and the base outer edge, the movable base upper portion including intermediate the plurality of spaced floor subsections a plurality of raised lower interior privacy partitions, each of said lower interior privacy partitions defining a secondary vertical riser, each of the raised lower interior privacy partitions adjoining a raised base central portion such that each secondary vertical riser cooperates with the vertical riser to define raised upper portions of a tank compartment, the tank compartment being defined by an interior space of the movable base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: BRYAN J. BOURGEOIS, Guy Michael Beard
  • Publication number: 20100058519
    Abstract: A versatile plumbing tool for obviating household drain blockages is primarily operated by a manually operated air pump; however its utility is greatly increased by making it adaptable for operation by household water pressure. The annular housing of an anti-back flow valve functions as a hand grip for applying sealing down pressure on the discharge head during a drain unlocking operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: CLYDE E. DAVENPORT
  • Publication number: 20100058520
    Abstract: A toilet seat and cover position detection system that includes a toilet assembly in a room with a door wherein a two position toilet seat cover is attached to the toilet assembly. Attached to the seat cover is a transmitter device means whereby the transmitter device is activated to broadcast a signal when the seat cover is in the vertical position. A receiver device means attached to the door and activated upon opening the door, detects the transmitter broadcast signal emitted when the seat cover is in the raised position. When a signal is detected, an alarm device means is activated by the receiver device and notifies user that the seat cover is in the raised position as the user opens the door to exit. The transmitter device means may also be attached to a two position toilet seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Robert Brian Madden, Karen Popek Madden
  • Publication number: 20100058521
    Abstract: The dual toilet tank system is toilet flushing system that efficiently uses the water in the tank depending on the waste being flushed. The tank body has a divider separating the tank into two compartments, one compartment has a smaller volume than the other; a flushing valve assembly with two flapper valves, one flapper valve disposed vertically higher than the other with each disposed in respective compartments; and independently operated actuators that flush the water in respective compartments or all of the tank. The smaller volume compartment is mostly used for liquid wastes while the larger volume compartment is used for solid wastes. For larger loads, both compartments are utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: George J. Wajda
  • Publication number: 20100058522
    Abstract: The toilet water saver includes a toilet tank and flushing valve assembly that efficiently uses the water in the tank for the particular waste being flushed. The flushing valve assembly has two flapper valves, one flapper valve disposed vertically higher than the other, and an actuator that operates one valve singly or both flapper valves simultaneously at the user's option. The disposition of the valves with respect to the maximum tank capacity level defines respective first and second volumes of water to be used. The higher disposed flapper valve is operated to drain a smaller volume of water for the common liquid wastes while the lower disposed flapper valve is operated to drain a much greater volume for solid waste.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: George J. Wajda
  • Publication number: 20100058523
    Abstract: The toilet water saver includes a toilet tank and flushing valve assembly that efficiently uses the water in the tank for the particular waste being flushed. The flushing valve assembly has two flapper valves, one flapper valve disposed vertically higher than the other, and an actuator that operates one valve singly or both flapper valves simultaneously at the user's option. The disposition of the valves with respect to the maximum tank capacity level defines respective first and second volumes of water to be used. The higher disposed flapper valve is operated to drain a smaller volume of water for the common liquid wastes while the lower disposed flapper valve is operated to drain a much greater volume for solid waste. The toilet water saver is also configurable for flushing wastes from either left or right side of the toilet tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: George J. Wajda
  • Publication number: 20100058524
    Abstract: The dual toilet tank system is a toilet flushing system that efficiently uses the water in the tank depending on the waste being flushed. The tank body has a divider separating the tank into two compartments, one compartment has a smaller volume than the other; a flushing valve assembly with two flapper valves, one flapper valve disposed vertically higher than the other with each disposed in respective compartments; and independently operated actuators that flush the water in respective compartments or all of the tank. The smaller volume compartment is mostly used for liquid wastes while the larger volume compartment is used for solid wastes. For larger loads, both compartments are utilized.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: George J. Wajda
  • Publication number: 20100058525
    Abstract: A toilet (10) is provided which comprises a toilet bowl (12) and an odour extraction apparatus (13). The toilet bowl (12) has a flush water inlet (18) and an odour extraction outlet (20) communicable with the odour extraction apparatus (13). At least a portion of the odour extraction outlet (20) is located higher up the toilet bowl than the flush water inlet (18). In this way, the toilet (10) ensures that odoriferous gases are extracted from the toilet bowl (12) without a significant amount of flush water being extracted through the outlet (20) at the same time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Donald Alexander Aitchison
  • Publication number: 20100058526
    Abstract: Flow water reducer of toilet water flush unit is a device that is installed on toilet water tank to restrict the downward movement of the push handler of toilet water flush unit to a degree to allow flapper tank ball elevate only about one to one and a half inches high to drain small amount of water into toilet to flush liquid human waste. Therefore a large amount of water can be saved to relieve the shortage of water supply in big cities in the States.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Kun Yuan Tong
  • Publication number: 20100058527
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a combination toilet and stool/table. This structure includes opposing and parallel front and rear walls, along with opposing and parallel side walls. The side walls are capable of folding so that the structure can be portable. A foldable seat is attached to the rear wall and is secured to the structure by securing tabs located along the top edge of the side walls and front wall. A bag for receiving waste, garbage and other items can be placed within the interior of the structure. Access to the bag is through an opening in the foldable seat. The foldable seat includes a lid that can be moved between an open position and a closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: David W. Richardson
  • Publication number: 20100058528
    Abstract: An apparatus for generating a current in a pool, the apparatus including: a) a shell including an upwardly extending intake chamber in fluid communication with the pool, the intake chamber having a liquid intake zone located in a lower end of the intake chamber; b) an axial pump having an upstream suction-side and a downstream discharge-side, the pump located at an upper end of the intake chamber, the pump having a guide means arranged to direct liquid to flow longitudinally in the discharge-side channel substantially without swirling, the guide means being located downstream of the pumping element; and c) drive means adapted to drive the drive shaft, wherein driving the drive shaft produces a discharge of liquid through the discharge-side outlet, to create a current in the pool for a swimmer to swim against.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Clarey
  • Publication number: 20100058529
    Abstract: A swimming pool covering device includes a pool covering member manufactured from a first predetermined material and having a first predetermined size and a first predetermined shape and including at least one inflatable compartment disposed therein. A first valve is operably connected to such pool covering member at a predetermined location for enabling communication of air into and out of such at least one inflatable compartment. A securing mechanism is disposed at predetermined locations closely adjacent a perimeter of such pool covering member for securing such pool covering member in place over an open top portion of a swimming pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: VAUGHN D. DECKER
  • Publication number: 20100058530
    Abstract: A device for forming a walkable floor, for instance above a swimming pool, has elements that may be assembled to be movable between a first position, in which the floor is situated above the swimming pool, and a second position in which the floor is situated adjacently of the swimming pool. The elements are mutually separated by separating surfaces extending substantially transversely of the direction movement, and wherein the elements can be mutually coupled by couplings adapted to transmit pulling and pushing forces in the direction of movement, wherein the couplings are adapted to prevent a relative movement in the direction transversely of the direction of movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Johannes Gommert van Der Klooster
  • Publication number: 20100058531
    Abstract: A plumbing fixture enclosure which has a bathtub or shower receptor and enclosure walls. The lower tub/receptor has an upper rim on which rests a rear wall. A side wall is pivotably connected at its upper rear to an upper front side of the rear wall and then pivots downwardly to create a horizontal watertight seal between the side and rear walls. Simultaneously, a lower retaining finger at the front bottom of the side wall catches between an insert on the upper rim and the upper rim.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Daniel R. Bullis, Daniel J. Lee, Jake W. Myre
  • Publication number: 20100058532
    Abstract: A portable solar shower includes two detachable water reservoirs. One of the reservoirs may be coupled to a water source and includes a diverter valve regulating the flow and temperature of water spayed by a shower head, and the other reservoir has a port for coupling to the shower head. When the solar shower is not in use, the reservoirs may be separated from one another to form a compact package adapted for storage or transportation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: Bridging China International, Ltd.
    Inventors: Jyh-Hsin Tsai, Huai-Ping Wang
  • Publication number: 20100058533
    Abstract: A spa apparatus includes a chair and a basin supported by a base. The basin is movable in an up/down direction relative to a portion of the base. The chair may include actuators to tilt forward to permit easy entry and exit from the chain. The chair may also move in a fore/aft direction relative to the basin. A pair of foot rests may be located within the basin. A manicure assembly may be located within a cavity in the arm of the chair. The basin may have a narrowed front portion to allow a technician to easily fact the customer. A base may include two support frames that pivot relative to one another proximate an end of the base distal the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: David J. Gruenwald, Edwin B. Hatch, David A. Schmitz, Jeremy M. Lenzendorf, John A. Groeschel
  • Publication number: 20100058534
    Abstract: There is herein described a single handle pressure balancing spool valve for mixing user-adjustable hot and cold water flow to a fixture such as a shower or tub and to adjust the rate of mixed water flow. A rotatable disc with hot and cold intake openings and an outlet opening are provided which control the degree of covering on the inlet ports of the valve. Pressure balancing of inlet pressure is provided within the valve by means of a piston-cylinder assembly to compensate for fluctuations in water inlet pressure to avoid scalding of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Robert Martin, Danny Li
  • Publication number: 20100058535
    Abstract: A system for facilitating the storage of an accessory part such as a changer station, bassinet or canopy includes a play yard, and an accessory kit that can be detachably or permanently secured on the play yard. The play yard comprises a frame structure having a plurality of side rail assemblies. The accessory kit comprises a foldable accessory part and a storage pocket that can be secured with one upper rim of the play yard. The accessory part can be folded into a compact form that fits in the storage pocket. When the user wishes to use the accessory part, the user can pull out and unfold the accessory part, and then fasten the accessory part on opposite sides of the play yard for adequate support. The ability to stow the accessory part in a compact manner in the play yard facilitates portability of the accessory part and play yard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: WONDERLAND NURSERYGOODS HONG KONG COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventor: Joseph F. FIORE, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100058536
    Abstract: A support element for a cushion cover for seating and lying areas, preferably for mattresses, includes a baseplate that can be fixed to a base, and at least one spring element formed by a plurality of spring arms and extending upward from the baseplate in the direction of the cushion cover, wherein the spring arms each are provided with a substantially U-shaped corrugated spring element on the upper ends thereof, oriented away from the baseplate, the corrugated spring element including at least two parallel spaced spring legs located on concentric ring tracks and disposed about the central axis of the support element and at least one connecting bar joining the spring legs, one end of the spring leg located on the inner ring track being connected to the corresponding spring arm, and one end of the spring leg located on the outer ring track being connected to the support plate provided for supporting the cushion element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: FROLI KUNSTSTOFFWERK HENRICH FROMME OHG
    Inventor: Margret Fromme-Ruthmann
  • Publication number: 20100058537
    Abstract: A bedding system and method can minimize the time, labor and/or frustration associated with making a bed. The system includes a fitted sheet as well as a flat sheet and/or a comforter. The fitted sheet can conformingly fit around a mattress. The fitted sheet can be equipped with connectors in a foot side portion thereof. The flat sheet can include a panel attached to an inner side thereof in a foot end region. The flat sheet panel can include connectors adapted for removable attachment with at least some of the connectors on the fitted sheet. Similarly, the comforter can include a panel attached to an inner side thereof in a foot end region. The comforter panel can include connectors adapted for removable attachment with at least some of the connectors on the fitted sheet. The connectors can be any suitable structure, such as snaps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Frederick Alan Schuck
  • Publication number: 20100058538
    Abstract: The resent invention is a baby headrest device, having a sleeve having a flat top surface and a bottom surface with the inner cavity of the sleeve being filled with a cushioning material, and the sleeve having a maximum dimension of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches and between about 1 inch and about 4 inches thick. The sleeve would have a specialized cover to protect from dirt and damage. Such cover would further contain an opening for the sleeve, and would have a closing mechanism for said opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Rieber
  • Publication number: 20100058539
    Abstract: The present invention is a heel and elbow cushioning device, having a sleeve with a flat top surface and a bottom surface and with the inner cavity of said sleeve being filled with a cushioning material, and the sleeve having a preferred dimension of from about 3 inches to about 12 inches and between about ¼ inch and about 2 inches thick. The sleeve may have a specialized cover to protect from dirt and damage. Such cover would further contain an opening for the sleeve, and would have a closing mechanism for said opening.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Rieber
  • Publication number: 20100058540
    Abstract: A system of modular, detachable cushions having surfaces containing hook and/or loop fasteners that fasten to mating loop, open weave or hook surfaces to define adjustable, conformal contoured support surfaces at user contact surfaces and appliances producing fatigue and/or abrasion (e.g. automotive seats, chairs, compartment walls, desks, footwear, helmets, tools etc.). The cushions can include air, elastomer, fabric, fiber, foam, liquid, gel, and/or rubber cushioning materials or combinations thereof arranged in envelopes, pads, cavities or tiered assemblies. The cushions include surfaces fitted with one or more layers of cushioning materials or envelopes of cushioning material and one or more regions of fastener materials that mate with interconnecting fasteners at the contact surface or appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Nathaniel Calvert
  • Publication number: 20100058541
    Abstract: A mattress including a core foam layer having a first indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a first density and a first thickness. The top outer foam layer has a second indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a second density and a second thickness. The first intermediate foam layer is intermediate and coextensive with the core layer and the top outer layer, and has a third indentation force deflection at twenty five percent compression, a third density and a third intermediate thickness. The first indentation force deflection is greater than the third indentation force deflection and the third indentation force deflection is greater than the second indentation force deflection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher E. Kemper
  • Publication number: 20100058542
    Abstract: A method for grafting functional chemical groups to a textile substrate is provided, wherein the substrate is impregnated with a solution of a functional molecule, containing the functional chemical group and a group that is reactive to ionising radiation, as well as a surfactant molecule that can improve the wettability of the textile substrate by the solution. The surfactant molecule contains at least two types of groups that are reactive to ionising radiation. Subsequently, ionising radiation is applied to the impregnated textile substrate and the reaction of the reactive groups bridge-grafts the functional molecules to the surfactant molecules. A textile substrate and a battery separator grafted using the above method are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: LAINIERE DE PICARDIE BC
    Inventors: Nabila Kourda, Philippe Le Thuaut
  • Publication number: 20100058543
    Abstract: A washing machine and washing method therefor are provided. The washing method may include applying a first directional torque to a drum so that laundry in the drum is rotated in a first direction and lifted to a maximum height greater than half a height of the drum, braking the drum so that the laundry is dropped, applying a second directional torque to the drum so that the dropped laundry is rotated in a second direction and lifted to a maximum height greater than half a height of the drum, and braking the drum so that the laundry is dropped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Byung Keol Choi, Woo Young Kim, Han Gil Park, Jae Won Chang, Kyung Chul Woo
  • Publication number: 20100058544
    Abstract: A washing machine having a steam generator, which generates steam so that the steam is used in a washing or drying operation, and a method for controlling the same are disclosed. The steam generator includes a case having a space for storing water; a heater provided in the space of the case for generating heat; and a water level sensor for sensing the minimum and maximum level of the water stored in the space of the case. A controller controls the water supply valve and the heater according to a result sensed by the water level sensor. The water supply valve is opened and closed, thereby controlling the supply of water to the steam generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventor: Seog Kyu Park
  • Publication number: 20100058545
    Abstract: Disclosed are dyes of Formula (I) wherein D is the radical of anthraquinone, acridine, azo, azomethine, hydrazomethine, benzodifuranone, coumarine, diketopyrrolopyrrol, dioxaxine, diphenylmethane, formazane, indigoid, indophenol, naphtalimide, naphthaquinone, nitroaryl, merocyanine, methine, oxazine, perinone, perylene, pyrenequinone, phtalocyanine, phenazine, quinoneimine, quinacridone, quinophtalone, stilbene, styryl, triphenylmethane, xanthene, thiazine dye and thioxanthene dye; Q is C1-C30alkylene, —C2-C12alkenylene, C5-C10arylene-, C5-C10cycloalkylene- or —C1-C10alkylene(C5-C10arylene)- which may be interrupted and/or terminated at one or both ends by one or more than one —O—, —S—, —N?, —N(R1)—, SO2, —(CH2CH2-O) 1-5-, —(CH2CH2CH2—O) 1-5-, —C(O)—, —C(O)—C1-C12alkenylene, —C(O)O—, —OCO—, A N+R1R2, —CON(R1)—, —C(NR1R2)2—, —(R1)NC(O)—, —CSR1— or an optionally substituted, saturated or unsaturated, fused or non-fused aromatic or nonaromatic (hetero)cyclic) bivalent radical optionally comprising at least one h
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: CIBA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Victor Paul Eliu, Beate Frohling, Dominique Kauffmann
  • Publication number: 20100058546
    Abstract: A baseplate for a robotic self-propelled pool cleaner having one or more inlet openings through which water-borne debris passes prior to filtration is provided with downwardly depending inlet extension members having walls that define an opening corresponding in shape to the baseplate inlet opening and that are mounted in close-fitting relation to extend the water intake opening towards, but without touching, the pool surface to increase the suction force at the surface. The baseplate optionally includes a rotatable wheel mounted in an inboard recess in the baseplate on, or adjacent to the longitudinal centerline of the cleaner to facilitate passage over obstacles that would immobilize the pool cleaner by contact with an inlet extension member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Giora Erlich
  • Publication number: 20100058547
    Abstract: The toothbrush includes a handle portion which has a disc spring assembly driven by a solenoid coil. The upper end of a central shaft which extends from the solenoid is connected to a drive flexible membrane assembly which in operation moves back and forth under the positive action of the solenoid central shaft and the return action of the spring on the central shaft. The drive membrane acts on hydraulic fluid which extends through a stem portion of the toothbrush to the brushhead, which includes a movable brushhead membrane. The moving fluid acts on the brushhead membrane to move it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2005
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Meindert Hendrik Boonstra, John Boersma
  • Publication number: 20100058548
    Abstract: The brushhead, which has a rotating action, includes a bristle plate and three separate sets of bristle tufts. A first set of bristle tufts extends longitudinally down the approximate center of the brushhead and is arranged to extend vertically from the base plate. The second and third sets of bristle tufts are arranged on opposing sides of the first set of bristle tufts, with the second and third sets of bristle tufts being arranged at an angle outwardly, in opposing directions, from the first set of bristle tufts, the angle being in the range of 5°-45°. The length of all the bristle tufts is established so that the tips of the bristles in the first, second and third sets of bristle tufts form a shallow arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Joseph W. Grez, William Bryant, Scott Hall
  • Publication number: 20100058549
    Abstract: An improved cleaning element, specifically designed for rotary brushes for motor vehicle washing systems, is made by using components of a velvety material which is suitably flocked by either a direct process or by coupling with velvety materials or velvets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 4, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Francesco Favagrossa
  • Publication number: 20100058550
    Abstract: The invention relates to a toothbrush having a head area comprising cleaning elements, a grip area, and a neck area, which connects the head and the grip areas to each other, wherein the toothbrush is configured having a first component made of plastic, and at least one further second component made of plastic, wherein the first component has a relief structure that is covered by the second component. The relief structure comprises high regions having the shortest distance to the outer surface of the second component, and low regions having the greatest distance to the outer surface of the second component, and the relief structure has intermediate regions adjacent to the high and low regions, the distance to the outer surface of the second component of the intermediate regions being between that of the high and low regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Kathi Ballmaier, Sören Wasow, Tilmann Winkler
  • Publication number: 20100058551
    Abstract: Personal hygiene devices designed to aid physically impaired persons to clean their own recto-genital area following urination, defecation, menstruation, or sweating. The devices include an elongated flexible strip made from one or two elongated individual sheets affixed together and of a length sufficient to extend between the user's legs and of a width sufficient to generally cover the recto-genital area. The strip has an absorbent middle portion for engaging the user's recto-genital area and respective dependent end portions having respective thumb holes therethrough for easy gripping in-hand. An absorbent pad is positioned at the middle portion retained by the individual sheets to increase the absorbency thereof. The device is used by gripping the end portions in-hand optionally using the thumb holes with the middle portion extending between the user's legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2004
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Karen S. McDowell
  • Publication number: 20100058552
    Abstract: A windscreen wiper device comprising a carrier element, as well as a wiper blade which includes opposing longitudinal grooves on its longitudinal sides, in which grooves spaced-apart longitudinal strips of the carrier element are disposed, wherein neighbouring ends of the longitudinal strips are interconnected by a respective connecting piece, wherein at least one connecting piece comprises engaging members engaging around the longitudinal strips so that the strips are mounted in grooves formed by the engaging members wherein the strips and the connecting piece are slidably connected by means of a snap connection, wherein the snap connection comprises laterally extending means on the strips, and wherein the laterally extending means comprise at least one protrusion extending laterally from an interior edge of each strip, the protrusion being located within the outer contour of each strip and between stops on the connecting piece, with the special feature that the grooves of the wiper blade each comprise a sto
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventor: Eric Coos
  • Publication number: 20100058553
    Abstract: A utility vacuum that may be configured to employ a disposable bag or removable and reusable container for the collection of dirt and debris that are drawn into the utility vacuum. The utility vacuum may employ one or more movable legs that are movable between an extended position, which provides relatively stable operation of the utility vacuum, and a retracted position, which reduces the footprint of the utility vacuum so that it is easier to store.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Ray T. Smith, Damon Nawrozki, Michelle M. Baldwin, Richard P. Rosa, Andrew E. Meng
  • Publication number: 20100058554
    Abstract: A floor tool for a cleaning appliance includes a head for engaging with a floor surface, a connecting arm pivotally connected to the head about a first axis and a supporting body pivotally connected to the head about a second axis. The head includes a suction opening which lies in a suction plane. The connecting arm includes an outlet in communication with the suction opening and adapted to connect to the cleaning appliance. The connecting arm is adapted and arranged to engage with the supporting body so that when, in use, the floor tool is pushed forwardly across the floor surface, the connecting arm applies a force to the head in a direction away from the floor surface. This allows the floor tool to be of reduced depth than was achievable hitherto while still being able to achieve the desired “rocking” motion to improve cleaning performance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: DYSON TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventor: Giles Ashbee
  • Publication number: 20100058555
    Abstract: The handle extension 30 comprises a base 40, a handle 60, a handle connector 80 and at least one base connector 100. The handle extension 30 attaches to a wheelbarrow or other device to improve the user's leverage, and permit easier use by shorter and taller users, and users with less strength and flexibility. The base 40 is removably and adjustably attached to a wheelbarrow or other device by at least one base connector 100. The handle 60 of the handle extension 30 is removably and adjustably attached to the base 40. The user may adjust the handle extension 30 throughout a wide range of positions by adjusting the placement of the base 40 on the device, and by adjusting the handle 60 relative to the base 40.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Inventors: Essie Dube, William A. Dalpe
  • Publication number: 20100058556
    Abstract: A hinge includes a first connecting member defining a through hole, a second connecting member, a shaft, a receiving member, and at least one sliding member. The shaft is fixed to the second connecting member, and a distal end of the shaft is passed through the through hole of the first connecting member. The receiving member is fixed to the first connecting member, and defines a receiving space for receiving the at least one sliding member. A sidewall of the receiving space defines a groove. The sliding member is fixed to the shaft, and rotated together with the shaft. A protrusion extends from a circumference of each of the at least one sliding member. When the sliding member rotates relative to the receiving member in the receiving space, the protrusion is engaged with or disengaged from the groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 11, 2010
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wei-Chen Kao