Abstract: An exercise device includes a left glove member adapted to be worn on the left hand of a user and a right glove member adapted to be worn on the right hand of the user, the left and right glove members each having an impact area and an elastomeric cord extending from a center of the impact area to a ball, such that the ball is connected to the left and right glove members by the elastomeric cords of equal length. A rigid plate member is fitted within each of the left and right glove members for providing a solid surface at the impact area. The user, wearing the left and right glove members, alternates movement of the hands in a repeated left and right punch throwing action which causes the ball to alternately strike the impact areas of the glove members and travel away from the user until the elastomeric cord leading from the opposite hand stretches taut and causes the ball to travel back towards the user for subsequent striking with the opposite hand.

Abstract: A flexible cuff that releasably fastens at the elbow to protect clothing and act as an additional barrier to the spread of germs. The cuff comprises a band, a pocket, a fastener and a liner. The band encircles a wearer's arm with the pocket open across a width of the band at the inside of the elbow. The pocket comprises pleats that hold the pocket open when the elbow is bent. The pocket holds items such as tissues, handkerchiefs, wipes and the like. The liner may be permanently affixed to the pocket or removeably insertable into a pouch located in the pocket. The liner may include additional components attached to the liner at an end of the liner protruding from the pouch such that the additional component is contained within the pocket.

Abstract: A bib-scarf system which is simple to manufacture and creates an adjustable, nonplanar bib. The system incorporates a piece of fabric, a horizontal opening in the fabric, and a horizontal strap. The fabric is cut to a predetermined rectangular size. Then a horizontal opening is created in the center of the fabric. The fabric at the top of the newly created horizontal opening is folded over and pulled through the opening. A strap is then run through the horizontal opening and fold in the top half of the fabric. This process creates an adjustable nonplanar bib which can be attached to the wearer with the strap either worn around the neck or secured to a garment which receives the strap.

Abstract: A Multiple Active Swimwear set is a outfit created for confidence and comfort in a swimsuit. Typically swimsuits feel like undergarments you wear with nothing on top. This particular line is a mockery of an everyday outfit women would typically wear on a summer day. Transformed into an outfit made for swim and water activities. Wearing “regular” clothing atop a swimsuit for cover is a shout of being unconfident in your swim attire. This swim line gives the same “feeling” of wearing a typical full underwire bra, a tank shirt and a short or skirt bottom as women do daily. With that confidence gives women an opportunity to participate in water activity without feeling completely exposed or like they are in their “lingerie” in public. It can be worn as an outfit into public areas without additional cover up and into water activities as well.

Abstract: A convertible garment that is reconfigurable from a garment to a neck pillow. The neck pillow may be generally U-shaped to fit about the neck of a wearer. The garment may include a pocket generally corresponding in shape to desired shape of the neck pillow. The pocket is of sufficient size to receive the remainder of the garment so that the remainder of the garment can be inserted into the pocket. The pocket may be sized so that the remainder of the garment substantially fills the pocket, thereby providing a relatively firm neck pillow capable of providing the desired level of neck support. The pocket may have a closure, such as a zipper, to retain the remainder of the garment in the pocket. The garment may be a jacket with the pocket located in the lower back that opens to the inside of the garment. The pocket may be manufactured from or lined with a soft material, such as a brushed tricot or a fleece.

Abstract: A garment is provided having an upper torso portion with a neck pass through opening, a trunk portion, and securement elements. The trunk portion includes a left arm port, a right arm port, a left hand side-fold assembly, and a right hand side-fold assembly, a front panel, and a back panel, each of the left hand side-fold assembly and the right hand side-fold assembly being connected to the back panel and the front panel and being foldable to overlie a respective lateral area of the front panel of the trunk portion. The securement elements secure the left hand side-fold assembly and the right hand side-fold assembly in a plurality of different folded dispositions, thereby providing a capability to adjustably vary a lateral width of the garment.

Abstract: A reversible garment with a warming side and a cooling side is comprised of a double knit fabric including a first face and a second face. The garment is reversible such that either face may be worn on the exterior of the garment. When the first side of the garment is worn against the body, the garment provides a heating effect by trapping air and body heat while wicking moisture to the outside of the fabric. When the second side of the garment is worn against the body, the garment provides a cooling garment by accelerating moisture movement across the fabric. Indicia are provided on the garment to indicate whether heating or cooling effects will be provided in the first-side-out configuration and the second-side-out configuration.

Abstract: An inner part for a glove includes a palm pouch and a finger pouch and an outer bag is mounted to the finger pouch and includes four finger pockets. A receiving pocket is located on the palm pouch and has a cover for sealing the receiving pocket. An electro-heat unit includes a heat plate, a power source and a controller, the heat plate is electrically connected to the power source by a cable and the controller is electrically connected to the power source. The heat plate includes four insertion plates so as to be inserted into the finger pouches and each insertion plate has a heating item which is powered by electric power to provide temperature to the wearer's fingers.

Abstract: A system which in use is mounted onto a glove for protecting the back of a user's hand comprises a plurality of elongate, flexible strips, each overlying a respective finger. Each strip has a first end portion serving as sole means of fixedly attaching the strip to the glove, usually in the vicinity of the fingertips, and a remaining portion, extending to the second end of the strip, which is free to move relative to the glove. In this respect, a plurality of discrete guide structures are attached to the glove at a spacing remote from the first end portion) of each strip so that the strip extends across, through or into the guide structure and is held in position on the glove in a manner which allows sliding displacement of the remaining portion of the strip along the longitudinal axis of the strip. The guide structures may be configured to provide a closed tunnel through which the strip extends, or in other versions may be open so that opposing engagement lugs slidingly retain side edges of the strip.

Abstract: Latex articles with geometrically defined surface structure providing enhanced grip characteristics in dry, wet or oily environment; and a method of making same comprising applying a polymeric coagulant coating to a smooth former surface, wherein the coating becomes tacky during drying, applying discrete coagulant particles of selected size, shape and distribution to the tacky coating to attach and protrude from the former surface with the polymeric coagulant coating, dipping the former into an aqueous latex emulsion, wherein the polymeric coagulant coating and the discrete coagulating particles destabilize the latex, thereby developing a latex layer, vulcanizing and stripping the latex article inside out, and dissolving the discrete coagulant particles in water or suitable solvents to reveal the geometrically designed texture with pre-selected size, shape and distribution of impressions providing improved dry, wet and oily surface grip by removal of a fluid boundary layer.

Abstract: A baseball-type cap and visor apparatus having a visor portion simulating that of an actual “off-road” motorcycle or other bike racing helmet.

Abstract: Disclosed is headgear with audio recording and playback capability that may capture the sound of the voice of the wearer or other sounds in the vicinity of the headgear. An electronic module containing specialized recording and playback integrated circuitry (IC), together with a microphone and speaker, are integral components of the semi-rigid brim of the headgear. A series of microchips, are used to record a vocal message, a music track, or a desired sound proximate the wearer of the hat, in selected increments of time. The material thusly recorded may be played back via an integral speaker so as to be audible to the wearer or other persons nearby.

Abstract: A hat with sound playing function includes a hat body, a brim extending from the hat body and at least one slim speaker. The brim has a supporting layer and a decorating layer covering a surface of the supporting layer. The at least one slim speaker is disposed between the supporting layer and the decorating layer.

Abstract: Stem holders are attached to opposing sides of the headwear crown, each forming an opening extending from its front edge to its back edge. The front and back edges of each stem holder may be partially attached to the crown such that the opening is larger along the front than along the back. At least a portion of the opening may be angled downward from front to back. For brimmed headwear, a raised flair may be positioned on the brim to create a pocket between it and the crown. For brimless headwear, the raised flair may be attached to the front of the crown to form a pocket between it and at least a portion of the crown. In either the brimmed or brimless configuration, the lens portion of the glasses will rest in the pocket when the stems of the glasses are inserted into the stem holders.

Abstract: [Problems] To provide a supporter, socks or stockings which can maintain the transverse arch even under the user's weight, and enables comprehensive, effective prophylaxis and treatment of disorders accompanying foot deformation (e.g., splayfoot, hallux valgus and PTTD) without discomfort or pain. [Means to Solve the Problems] A support structure for prophylaxis or treatment of disorders accompanying a foot deformation, comprising an instep part, a sole part, and a pair(s) of slip-proof means for gripping the sides of the forefoot, wherein: the instep and sole parts are connected together to form a cylindrical structure such that the borders between the parts are aligned with the sides of the forefoot; the slip-proof means are attached to the inner surface of the cylindrical structure at portions thereof to be contacted with the sides of the forefoot; and the instep part exhibits a larger elongation than the sole part in the widthwise direction of the foot.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a retro-reflective shell having a curved or irregular surface for reflecting light in all directions from a laminated product, comprising a substantially flat sheet of a plastic material and a reflective layer on at least one side of said flat sheet plastic material. The reflective layer comprises a transparent adhesive substance and transparent glass or plastic pearls with a diameter between 0.01 and 0.05 mm. The substance adheres to the flat sheet plastic material, to form the laminated product. The product is heated to a thermo-vacuum-forming temperature, whereupon the product is vacuum-formed on a mould having the desired curved or irregular surface shape, in order to form a shell.

Abstract: A cheek pad provided with shape-retaining properties is easily attached or removed, having light weight and effective shock-absorbing performance. A cheek pad includes a shock-absorbing member having shape-retaining properties and shock-absorbing properties and a cushioning member stacked on the shock-absorbing member in the thickness direction. A fixing member is provided on the front side of the inner surface of the right side of the helmet shell facing the cheek pad to removably fix the cheek pad, and an engaging body to be removably engaged with the fixing member is fixed on the shock-absorbing member. The fixing member is opposed to the front edge of the shock-absorbing liner, having a slit to be engaged with or disengaged from the engaging body in a front-back direction.

Abstract: An adjustable head band for a helmet has a base, a band, an adjusting wheel, a dial and a cover. The base has at least one pawl. The band is annular and is movably mounted through the base and has two toothed ends. The toothed ends correspond to each other. The adjusting wheel has a gear and a ratchet wheel. The gear engages the toothed ends of the band. The ratchet wheel engages the at least one pawl of the base. The dial is mounted on the adjusting wheel. The cover is mounted on the base. The adjustable head band is attached to a helmet and is convenient and easy to operate to allow customization of the helmet a head.

Abstract: A method for one or more of protecting and decorating a sports helmet. The method including; positioning an opening in a band of heat shrink material around an external outer surface of the sports helmet, the opening being larger than a corresponding size of the external outer surface of the sports helmet; and applying heat to the heat shrink material to shrink the heat shrink material to a size of the external outer surface of the helmet.

Abstract: Swimming goggles includes goggle bodies and face-contact pads. Each face-contact pat is mounted to the goggle body wherein an upper bottom surface and a lower bottom surface, respectively being in contact with positions above and below each eye of a wearer, are asymmetrically formed, and a distance from a lens front surface of the goggle body and an extension surface of the lens front surface to the lower bottom surface is greater than a distance from the lens front surface and the extension surface to the upper bottom surface. The swimming goggles does not leave un-wanted mark of the face-contact pad around the eyes of the wearer, a wearer does not feel uncomfortable, and water does not enter inside the goggles even when a high water pressure is applied at the time of diving or the like.

Abstract: A firefighter's turnout coat comprising a coat body having a collar extending therefrom wherein the coat body and the collar each comprise an outer shell, a thermal liner, and a moisture barrier positioned between the outer shell and the thermal liner. The collar of the coat is an integral extension of the coat body such that there is no stitched collar seam connecting the collar to the coat body.

Abstract: The FireSafety Cushion or Pillow is a compact, cushion-like packet with a thinly padded surface of fire retardant material. It contains a poncho-like flame-resistant safety-wear of light to heavyweight flame-resistant material to be worn as a protective outer cover in an emergency to help reduce injuries from flash flames. It may contain other fire escape aids, such as ropes and masks, as options. It is to be placed in living areas, either public or private as a scatter pillow or an attachment to seats or bedboards etc., making it readily available in case of fire. The cushion or pillow should be easily detachable, so that a person can grab it on the run because every second counts in case of fire. This is to provide a much needed safety measure for a common hazard.

Abstract: A device for spraying an inner surface of a toilet bowl with a cleaning fluid is disclosed. The device includes a container for the fluid, a fluid spray bar through which the fluid can be sprayed on the wall of the enclosure, a pumping apparatus for delivering fluid from the container to the fluid spray bar, and a controller. The fluid spray bar includes spray nozzles with different configurations and nozzle bodies to effectively spray the inner surface of the enclosure.

Abstract: A device for providing cleansing composition to the inner surface of a wall of an enclosure with a fluid, the device having: (a) a first fluid spray bar having an interior space for receiving fluid from a source of the fluid and for spraying the inner surface of the wall of the enclosure. The first fluid spray bar has at least a first spray hole through which cleansing composition may be sprayed, the first spray hole being in fluid communication with the interior space of the spray bar. Additionally, the first spray hole provides a first tangential spray.

Abstract: A toilet seat elevates from a first elevation to a second elevation. If in the first elevation, the toilet bowl seat appears to be a normal toilet bowl seat. To elevate the toilet bowl seat the toilet bowl seat is guided in a slot and locked into an upper elevation and support legs depend downwardly from the seat.

Abstract: An odourless toilet is provided. The toilet comprises a flush tank comprising a wet chamber, which comprises a flush assembly and a flush outlet. The toilet further comprises a ventilator inlet and a ventilator. The toilet also optionally comprises a toilet bowl, which comprises a basin and a basin access. In one aspect, the toilet comprises a diverter positioned between the flush tank and toilet bowl registering with the basin access. The diverter comprises a flush passage, which couples the flush outlet to a wet inlet of the basin access. The diverter also comprises an exhaust passage, which couples the ventilator inlet to a dry outlet of the basin access. A toilet assembly is also provided in which a fluid transfer passage passes between a basin portion and a storage portion including a wet chamber. A ventilator is operable to withdraw waste air through a waste air passage via the fluid transfer passage and an overflow passage.

Abstract: A spa/hot tub protective cover prevents the adverse effects of the sun and; weather from causing damage to a spa or hot tub. It also prevents damage or soiling by tree sap, insects, bird droppings, etc. The protective cover is constructed from a synthetic canvas-type of material which is well suited to protect the underlying spa. The protective spa cover is designed to cover the entire spa, with the exception of the pivot arms which aid in flipping the lid out of the way during use of the spa and the optional attached handrail. The spa cover is easily slipped over the spa, where it can remain for years without having to be removed.

Abstract: The Baby Bucket is one single plastic extrusion poured product. The upright shape and the specially contoured smooth internal surface of the Baby Bucket simulate the shape and inside of a mother's womb and enable a baby to take a fetal position; therefore, the Baby Bucket gives a baby a natural and stress free bathing experience. Furthermore, the upright position reduces the chance of a baby swallowing water and/or drowning in water like in a conventional flat bath tub.

Abstract: A wall-entry bathtub includes an entry wall movable between a raised position and a lowered position to provide convenient ingress and egress. A handle assembly is coupled to a pair of latches and brackets to selectively restrain the wall-entry bathtub in the raised position. A counterweight assembly is coupled to the entry wall and reduces the force required to move the entry wall between the lowered and raised positions. The entry wall also includes a seal member that is expandable to inhibit water from leaking past the entry wall when the wall-entry bathtub is in use. Dual drains are provided to reduce the time required to drain water from the wall-entry bathtub. And, a controller, in combination with a variety of sensors, applies predetermined logic to control the water filling, entry wall sealing, and water draining of the wall-entry bathtub.

Abstract: A former 1 is provided for creating a sloping profile for waste-water run off below a waterproof floor covering of a shower area. The former is made of a moulded plastics material, such as from material known as Bulk (or Dough) Moulding Compound or material known as Sheet Moulding Compound, and has sloping surfaces 3 converging to a predefined drainage hole 4 shaped to accept and retain a waste connection and which provides means for engagement of at least one clamping or retaining device for a waterproof floor covering, wherein the perimeter of the former surrounding the hole 4 has a stepped profile to provide at least one annular flange 8 outside the plane of the former within which fastening means are locatable.

Abstract: A former 1 is provided for creating a sloping profile for waste-water run off below a waterproof floor covering of a shower area. The former 1 is made of a moulded or cast plastics material and has sloping surfaces 3 converging to define an integral linear drainage trough 6 having upstanding side walls and a base, the base of the trough containing at least one predefined drainage hole 4 for connection to a shower waste. The former may be covered with a flexible waterproof floor covering, the covering being placed between the sides of the trough 6 and a support frame and retained in position by fastening means provided through the frame and trough. A perforated drainage cover 30 is mounted on the support frame and secured thereto by fastening means.

Abstract: Improvements in conservation and collection of water that gray water that normally is washed down a drain is disclosed. The conservation tool is a side pipe or “T” that allows water with minimal or no heavy solids to flow out the side pipe. The side pipe exists above a water trap at a height that is about the top of the trap. Heavy materials will fall straight down the trap but only fairly clear fluids will stay above the trap and flow down the side pipe. The side pipe is connected with a hose to a reservoir holding tank. A valve is manually operable to stop any flow into the reservoir. The reservoir is removable for use to feed plants or grass with the collected gray water.

Abstract: “The Fold Up Dormitory” is intended for use in situations where living and working quarters for a small or large number of people are required on short notice or irregular intervals. The apparatus is made of wood, steel and premanufactured hardware, and comprises components for sleeping, working and storage of small items. It is mobile, simple to operate and offers many options to those who use it. The apparatus comprises: a central core; a pair of folding frames, each pivotally connected to the central core on opposite sides thereof, for rotation about vertical frame-to-core axes of connection; a bed platform pivotally connected to a first side of the central core, for rotation about a horizontal bed-to-core axis of connection; a desk surface pivotally connected to a second side of the central core, for rotation about a horizontal desk-to-core axis of connection; and storage shelving within the central core.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for transferring a patient from a first bed to a second bed, wherein said patient is disposed upon said first bed and said first bed and second bed comprise a surface for resting said patient comprising a plurality of predetermined sections. The method further discloses removing at least one of said plurality of predetermined sections of said surface of said first bed and replacing it with at least one of said plurality of predetermined sections of said surface of said second bed and removing at least one of said plurality of predetermined sections of said surface of said second bed and replacing it with at least one of said plurality of predetermined sections of said surface of said first bed; combining said surface of said first bed with said surface of said second bed; and transferring said patient from said first bed to second bed.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to a child sleeping system comprising a blanket, a pillow, pillow band and a carrying pouch. The blanket has a generally rectangular configuration and a length and a width. The pillow has a generally rectangular configuration filled with a non-allergenic material, and has a length and width, at least one of the pillow length and width in a predetermined dimensional relationship with at least one of the blanket length and width. The carrying pouch has a generally rectangular configuration, defines an opening at the first edge and communicates with the blanket second edge; the carrying pouch has a length and width in a predetermined dimensional relationship with at least one of the pillow length and width. The carrying pouch is adapted to receive the blanket and pillow when the pillow is folded over and the blanket side edges are folded over the pillow.

Abstract: A patient positioning system for radiotherapy, comprising a device for positioning a patient within the framework of treatment planning, using image detection and/or carrying out radiation treatment, comprising a patient bed on which a patient is positioned, wherein means are provided by which the same bed may be arranged both on a planning couch for image detection within the framework of treatment planning as well as on a radiotherapy table, and by providing a reference means on the patient bed by which the position of the immobilized patient or of a marked radiation target is determined with respect to the patient bed. Within this framework, a corresponding method is also provided, as well as an adjusting means for the transport and the bed.

Abstract: A hospital bed includes a mattress support attached to an end panel of adjustable height. The panel comprises a lower frame and a movable upper frame defining between them two spaced vertical uprights, of telescopic structure, an actuating cylinder, and an extension amplification mechanism.

Abstract: A multiple function pillow used for kneeling, sitting, sleeping and traveling which includes a cushion member and a protective cover. A mechanism is for removably inserting the cushion member into the protective cover, to allow a person to rest their head, back, sit and kneel thereon. A mechanism is for securing opposite ends of the protective cover together, wherein the cushion member can be folded into a closed position, so as to be wrapped and retained about a wrist of a person, a handle of a suitcase, a strap of a bag and a strap of a purse for easy transportation thereof. Two non-slip neoprene material pads are used.

Abstract: A mattress has at least one cavity that is covered by a flap formed by the top quilt or covering of the mattress. The cavity is formed by eliminating one or more foam layers corresponding to the size, shape and depth of the desired cavity. In a preferred embodiment, two or more cavities are provided, each at a corner of the mattress. The top quilt, forming the flap, is secured with the use of releasable fasteners, such as hook and loop fasteners, to completely conceal the pocket when closed. The releasable fasteners allow the flap to be conveniently opened and closed so that jewelry, currency or other valuables and items can be placed within or removed from the one or more hidden cavities. The manner of creating the hidden cavity allows for ease in manufacturing without additional cost, labor or materials other than the releasable fasteners.

Abstract: A hatchet head for a roofing tool includes a hammering end having a striking face and a first bore formed in the striking face. The hatchet head also comprises a magnet assembly disposed within the first bore, where the magnet assembly includes a magnet and a cover having a uniform diameter along its length. The cover is configured to retain the magnet within the first bore. Additionally, the hatchet head includes a multi-purpose end having a thickness and an elongated slot extends through the thickness. A gauging assembly is disposed through the elongated slot.

Abstract: The present invention provides an aqueous bleaching composition comprising from about 1.0% to 10.0% by weight of alkali metal hypochlorite, from about 0.05% to 5.0% by weight of alkali metal hydroxide to provide the composition with a pH in the range of from about 9 to 14; from about 0.02% to 5.0% by weight of a metal silicate or mixtures of metal silicates; from about 0.0001% to 0.2% by weight of a metal periodate; and water. The compositions reliably protect the fabric against yellowing and weakening while providing protection to stainless steel metal parts of the washing machine and metal garment decors such as buckles, buttons, etc.

Abstract: A laundry treating apparatus includes a cabinet, a tub provided in the cabinet, a drum rotatably provided in the tub for receiving laundry, a gasket provided between the cabinet and the tub, a plurality of spray nozzles provided at a lower part of the gasket for spraying wash water upward into the drum, and a pump for pumping wash water to the spray nozzles.

Abstract: Disclosed are polymeric dyes obtained by the reaction of (a) a basic polycondensate with (b) an electrophilic dye of formula (2) P—X—Ya+ Ana?; wherein the basic polycondensate (a) is obtained by the reaction of (a1) an amine of formula (I) in the presence of an anhydrous solvent with an ammonium salt (a2) with a cyanamide; wherein R1, R2, R3 and R4 independently from each other are hydrogen; or C1-C4alkyl, which may be substituted by amino, hydroxy, cyano or C1-C4alkoxy; A is C2-C20alkylene, which may be substituted or interrupted by one or more than one hetero atoms; P is a reactive grouping capable of reacting with a nitrogen nucleophile; X is a linkage group selected from C1-C30alkylene, C2-C12alkenylene, C5-C10arylene, C5-C10cycloalkylene and 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(R5)—, —S(O)—, SO2, —(CH2CH2—O)1-5—, —(CH2CH2CH2—O)1-5—, —C(O)—, —C(O)O—, —OC(O)—, (II), —CON(R5)—, —C(NR5R6)2—, —(R5)NC(O)—, —C(S)R5

Abstract: A ramp assembly has a ramp portion configured for reciprocating movement between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position, and a counterbalance. The counterbalance includes a restraint slidably coupled to a driving element having a spring fitting. The drive element includes a first engagement surface for engaging a first bearing surface associated with the ramp portion and a second engagement surface for engaging a second bearing surface associated with the ramp portion. A compression spring is disposed between a portion of the restraint and the spring fitting so that the compression spring provides a force to bias the ramp portion toward the stowed position when the ramp portion is between the deployed position and the neutral position, and toward the deployed position when the ramp portion is between the stowed position and the neutral position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly has a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. A counterbalance is associated with the ramp portion and includes a drive element with a spring fitting. The drive element is rotatably coupled about a first axis of rotation that moves along an arcuate path. A restraint is slidably coupled to the drive element and is also rotatably coupled about a fixed axis of rotation. An end stop is associated with the restraint. A compression spring is disposed between the spring fitting and a portion of the restraint so that the compression spring provides a force to bias the ramp portion toward the neutral position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. A counterbalance comprises a shaft and a crank fixedly coupled to the shaft. A rod is rotatably coupled to the crank with an end fitting, and an end stop is slidably coupled to the rod. A compression spring is disposed between the end fitting and the end stop, wherein the compression spring provides a force to bias the ramp portion toward the stowed position when the ramp portion is between the deployed position and the neutral position, and toward the deployed position when the ramp portion is between the stowed position and the neutral position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly includes a ramp portion configured for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. The ramp assembly further includes a counterbalance that provides a force to bias the ramp portion toward the stowed position when the ramp portion is between the deployed position and the neutral position, and toward the deployed position when the ramp portion is between the stowed position and the neutral position. A shaft rotates in a first direction when the ramp portion moves toward the stowed position, and in a second direction opposite the first direction when the ramp portion moves toward the deployed position. A crank is fixedly coupled to the shaft. A rod is rotatably coupled at a first end to the crank about a first axis and at a second end to a cylinder. The cylinder is coupled for rotational movement about a second axis.

Abstract: A deployable ramp assembly including a fixed ramp portion and a pivotable ramp portion connected thereto through a direct pivot connection to pivot between stowed and deployed positions defined at a first angle from one another, a cover member pivotally connected to the fixed portion to pivot between closed and opened positions defined at a second angle from one another which is substantially smaller than the first angle, a drive assembly pivoting the cover member between the closed and opened positions, and a multiplier assembly interconnecting the pivotable portion and the cover member to transfer the pivoting motion of the cover member to the pivotable portion in an amplified manner, the multiplier assembly bringing the pivotable portion in the stowed position when the cover member is in the closed position and the pivotable portion in the deployed position when the cover member is in the opened position.

Abstract: A ramp assembly has a ramp portion configured for reciprocating movement between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position, and a counterbalance. The counterbalance includes a compression spring and an engagement fitting associated with a first end of the spring. A first bearing element is operably coupled to the ramp portion so that movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the stowed position engages the first bearing element with the engagement fitting to move the first end of the spring toward a second end of the spring. A second bearing element is operably coupled to the ramp portions of that movement of the ramp portion from the neutral position toward the deployed position engages the second bearing element with the engagement fitting to move the first end of the spring toward the second end of the spring.

Abstract: A pool cleaner has a float and close proximity counterweight that together improve the applied torque to steer the pool cleaner, a body 13 has slots 33 diametrically opposed on the body 13 and these receive tangs 66 and 67 which depend from a circular body 68. The body 68 carries a circular guide-way 69 with a guide 70 travelling between opposite ends of the guide-way. Afloat 26 is connected to the guide by two pivot arms 71 and 72 which have openings at their ends so that they slide into position and are retained in place by snap in retainers 73 and 74. The guide 70 has a circular shoulder 75 and at opposite ends of the guide has projections 76 and 77 such that the rail 78 of the guide-way is retained between the surface 75 and the inner surfaces 78 and 79 of the projections 76 and 77 with the rail against the surface 80. A corresponding structure is on the opposite side of the guide and this retains the rail 81 so that the guide slides around a circular path defined by the rails 78 and 81.