Abstract: This disclosure describes nontoxic cushion mats and methods of making and using them. Nontoxic CorkiBoo mixtures composed of cork granules and bamboo, cotton, or polyester fibers, and methods of making the mixtures are disclosed. Cushions mats are constructed using single layers of CorkiBoo mixtures, or multiple layers of cushion sheets composed of one or more types of cork granules, bamboo, cotton, or polyester fibers, CorkiBoo mixtures, or blends of them. The hardness level of each of the cushion layers is determined in advance. Covers can be used to enclose the cushions. The cushion mats can be modular or non-modular. For modular cushion mats, the modules can be connected using enclosing covers attached with snaps or hook-and-loop strips. Modules of the cushion mats can be used to assemble 3-dimensional polygons, which may be used as toys or temporary portable cribs.

Abstract: A mattress assembly includes a first layer of viscoelastic foam defining an upper surface, and a second layer of non-viscoelastic foam supporting the first layer. The mattress assembly also includes a plurality of spring elements positioned beneath the upper surface for enhancing a firmness of the combined first and second layers. Each of the spring elements includes a first spring having a first spring rate and a second spring having a second spring rate different than the first spring rate.

Abstract: The object of the invention is the method of making innerspring foam mattresses, wherein the spring cores (3) of the mattresses are placed on a belt conveyor and covered with the external foam panel (2), after which paper-and-foil medium (4) is placed on a belt conveyor under spring cores (3), and then the space between the external foam panel (2) and the paper-and-foil medium (4), comprising the spring core (3), is filled with liquid foam material through a pouring trough (5) situated below the spring cores (3) traveling above it, a flattening mat (7) is placed upon the upper surface of the external foam panel (2) in order to limit the foam expansion, and to reach the desired mattress thickness, and then the resulting slab is cut by means of an automatic cutting knife (6) into mattresses of desired geometrical dimensions. The second object of the invention is the mattress produced with the method of the first object of the invention.

Abstract: A bedding or seating product comprises a pocketed spring assembly comprising a plurality of parallel strings of individually pocketed springs. The strings of springs may extend from head-to-foot or side-to-side of the product. Adjacent individually pocketed springs are separated from each other by at least one separating seam. Each of the separating seams comprises a branched end portion.

Abstract: An air inflation accelerator for increasing the rate of inflation of an air pump inflating a product, the accelerator comprising an elongated tubular member connectable to an inflator appliance at a first end and connectable to a valve of the bladder of the product to be inflated at a second end, the tubular member having a plurality of air inlets to allow for use of the venturi principle and a closure mechanism for disengaging the air inlets once atmospheric pressure is reached within the bladder being inflated.

Abstract: A foam mattress in which a layer of latex or latex-like foam placed above a layer of memory foam is described. This construction of the mattress provides the contouring pressure relief that a visco-elastic foam provides with a top surface with quick recovery (a latex-like “bounce”) that prevents people from getting “stuck” in the visco-elastic foam and improves the springiness of the mattress. The mattress may also include straps and cinches to aid in transportation of the mattress. The mattress may also include removable covers that aid in keeping the mattress clean.

Abstract: A load-supporting body includes a base plate constituting a framework; a cushion material arranged on a front surface side of the base plate; an upholstery material stretched to cover an outside surface of the cushion material and an outer peripheral edge of the base plate; and a tightening cord inserted through a peripheral edge of the upholstery material and tightened to allow end parts to be tied together on a rear surface side of the base plate in a state in which the upholstery material has covered the outside surface of the cushion material and the outer peripheral edge of the base plate. The base plate is provided with a first side wall and a first protruding wall that restricts displacement of the tightening cord in a base-plate center direction, and a second side wall and a second protruding wall that restrict displacement of the tightening cord in a base plate outward direction.

Abstract: A furniture assembly adapted to support a human in a seated position, including a novel core sub-assembly and an optional slip cover, wherein the novel core sub-assembly comprises a seat member, a base member, a left side, a right side, a front side, a back side, an optional back support member, an optional left arm, and an optional right arm, and wherein the novel core sub-assembly and/or the optional slip cover comprises or is associated with a novel faux cotton material that provides an occupant with a sensory experience that imitates the look and feel of genuine cotton.

Abstract: An inventory rack system and a mobile inventory rack apparatus are disclosed. The mobile inventory rack apparatus includes an inventory conveyor configured to translate articles of inventory and a receiving system including a requirement indicator disposed along the inventory conveyor. The requirement indicator has an inventory required state when not in contact with an article of inventory. The mobile inventory rack apparatus further includes a supply system including a pair of spaced stoppers disposed along the inventory conveyor. Each stopper has an extended position preventing translation of the articles of inventory and a retracted position allowing translation of the articles of inventory. The inventory conveyor is configured to receive at least one article of inventory when the requirement indicator is in the inventory required state and to allow removal of at least one article of inventory when one of the stoppers is in the retracted position.

Abstract: A cooler having a transparent display is provided. The cooler may include a body forming a predetermined space configured to receive products therein; a cooling unit or device installed in the body and configured to supply cooled air into the space; a door installed in or on the body to open and dose the space; and a transparent display assembly installed in the door and configured to provide predetermined information related to the products to a user. The transparent display assembly may include a transparent display panel, a dispersion panel arranged at a rear of the transparent display panel and configured to scatter light, which is incident upon a side of the dispersion panel, and a light source that irradiates light from the side of the dispersion panel to an inside of the dispersion panel. A transparency of the dispersion panel may be controlled depending on a distance between a user and the cooler to allow the user to selectively see the products.

Abstract: A cooling unit having, on two sides, supporting C-shaped lateral frames. The lateral frames are formed from frame profiles having a rear-sided vertical profile and a lower and an upper forward-projecting horizontal profile. A rear wall group having a heat-insulating outer covering is mounted on the vertical profiles, a base group is mounted on the lower horizontal profile and an upper group is mounted on the upper horizontal profile, and the groups surround a cooling chamber from behind, below and above. The construction has at least the outer covering of the rear wall group arranged on the inner side, facing the cooling chamber, of the vertical profile.

Abstract: Provided are systems, methods and techniques for displaying merchandise. One such system includes a support structure, a receptacle physically connected to the support structure and having a plurality of openings around its periphery, and a plurality of merchandise assemblies. Each merchandise assembly, in turn, includes an item of merchandise and an attachment device fastened to the item of merchandise. The attachment device has a vertically oriented insertion member that is tapered from top to bottom and is removably inserted into one of the plurality of openings in the receptacle.

Abstract: A holding apparatus having a first and second support tube that slidably engage each other is provided. Each of the first and second support tubes has an end cap coupled to an end of the respective support tube. The first support tube has a bore and an open end opposite the end cap coupled to the first support tube. The engagement of the first and second support tubes enables a smooth surface on the first support tube so that jewelry or other small articles may be positioned thereon and freely slide back and forth along the surface of the first support tube. The end cap coupled to the second support tube has a bore for receiving the open end of the first support tube at full insertion of the second support tube into the bore of the first support tube.

Abstract: In a personalized band closed by a side release buckle comprising a hook fixedly attached to each end of the band and a double-sided catch for receiving and securing the hooks. A display panel for separately displaying band straps and personalized catches.

Abstract: An outfit hanger and displayer has a head section, a shoulder section, a torso section, a bottom (hip/waist) section, a neck section, an arm section, and a hand section. In some embodiments the head section has a loop, a hanging hook and an earring section. The earring section can be made of, among other things, a polystyrene foam, a magnetic material, a plastic material, or an adhesive material. In some embodiments the torso section is expandable. In some embodiments the hanger has a necklace/scarf guide that can be used to display necklaces or scarves on the hanger. In some embodiments, the outfit hanger has at least one stabilizing foot.

Abstract: A disposable sleep aid system for preventing particles from being released from a pillow while the pillow is slept upon includes a pillow that has a top side and a bottom side and the pillow may be slept upon. A shield apparatus is removably coupled to the pillow to block allergens or other particles from being released by the pillow while the pillow is used for sleeping.

Abstract: A pillow cover is provided that includes a first panel and a second panel perimetrically joined with the first panel such that inner surfaces of the first and second panels define a cavity having a void volume. The first and second panels are each made from a first material. An opening extends through the inner surface of the first panel and an outer surface of the first panel. The pillow cover includes a patch covering the opening. The patch is made from a second material that is different than the first material.

Abstract: A bedding case including a plurality of pockets, each pocket incorporating a pair of flexible sheets, wherein each pocket opens longitudinally or opens oppositely longitudinally, wherein each flexible sheet has a face side and a reverse side, wherein each flexible sheet pair's sheets have their reverse sides facing away from each other; and including stitching interconnecting the pockets, the stitching vertically stacking the pockets so that, upon an eversion of one of the pockets, the one pocket's paired flexible sheets invert and outwardly display their face sides, the one pocket's eversion storing each of the other pockets within the one pocket.

Abstract: A reusable and replaceable pillow case cover or cushion case cover manufactured with half of a resealable fastening system attached that can be installed and removed from a correspondingly shaped constructed pillow case or cushion case manufactured with the complimentary half of the resealable fastening system attached that when fastened together creates a pillow case cover assembly or cushion case cover assembly. A pillow or cushion is inserted into the pillow case or cushion case to create a pillow with pillow case cover assembly, or cushion with cushion case cover assembly.

Abstract: The invention relates to a container can that is sealed after being filled, to a holding device for introduction into a container can, and to a method for manufacturing a container can. A container can according to the invention that has a bottom, a peripheral wall that adjoins the bottom, and a narrowed end on one end facing away from the bottom is characterized in that a two-part holding device is located in the container can that has a second part and a first part detachably connected thereto, of which the first part has a connecting section for connecting the second part to the first part as well as a plurality of support arms, at least two upper support arms of which are designed to be supported in the region of the narrowed end on the peripheral wall of the container can and at least two lower support arms of which are designed to be supported on the peripheral wall of the container can in a place that is nearer to the bottom of the container can than the connecting section is.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to reusable food covers. Such reusable food covers may be flexible so that they can create a seal with partially consumed foods, such as fruits and vegetables, to preserve these foods and extend the time of being suitable and desirable for consumption. Each cover may include a base and a flexible wall formed as a single unitary structure.

Abstract: A straw having a hollow core insert capable of imparting a flavor in a liquid that is sucked through the straw. The insert is made of a consumable material that is soluble in the liquid consumed through the straw. The insert is either co-manufactured with the straw or is manufactured as a separate insert that is placed into one end of the straw. The length of the insert is such that the liquid level in the straw is below the insert except when liquid is drawn into the straw by a consumer.

Abstract: The present application relates to a stand for supporting a garment hanger. The stand comprises a supporting element (14,22,32) on which a garment hanger is hung, and a clamp (8) operable to releasably support the garment hanger in a fixed orientation after the garment hanger has been hung on said supporting element (14,22,32).

Abstract: A boot remover for helping a user to more easily remove a boot. The boot remover includes a substantially planar base having a first boot engaging member on one side and a second boot engaging member on an opposing side. A fulcrum is fixedly attached to a lower surface of the base. The first and second boot engaging members are sized differently to allow for removal of different sized boots. Each of the boot engaging members have openings configured to accept the heel of a boot therein. In operation, users place the heel of the boot to be removed in the first boot engaging member and press down on the opposing boot engaging member with their other foot. The first boot engaging member holds the boot in place while the wearer pulls his leg upward to removes their foot from the boot.

Abstract: A temple-like device devoted to the Poker Gods of Luck comprised of a display of many separate three-dimensional poker related items; which create the gods, the temple, and the offerings which are made to the poker gods in hope that the poker gods will confer blessings and good luck to the poker player; the Poker Gods' Temple of Luck being defined as the use of one or more of the items as desired.

Abstract: A solar shading device includes a head rail that slidably supports leading runners having fabric curtains attached thereto, a carrying mechanism that includes a carrying pulley coupled to the leading runners through a belt and carries the leading runners along the head rail on the basis of the rotation of the carrying pulley, a manual drive unit that includes a first shaft coupled to the carrying pulley and serving as a drive shaft, and a suspension part having the manual drive unit suspended therefrom with the carrying pulley and the first shaft coupled together. Further, with the manual drive unit detached from the suspension part, the suspension part allows an electric drive unit to be suspended therefrom with the carrying pulley and a second shaft coupled together, the electric drive unit including the second shaft as a drive shaft for driving the carrying pulley.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a garlic press which includes a pair of handles joined together at a pivot point so that the handles may be rotated apart and towards each other. A first (piston) handle includes a hopper for receiving a garlic clove to be pressed, while the opposing second (hopper) handle is formed with a complementary piston that is sized and configured to be forced into the cavity to crush the clove of garlic.

Abstract: A cooking appliance includes a housing defining an interior space, a tray assembly positionable within the interior space, the tray assembly configured to support a food product. The cooking appliance further includes at least one lower heating element positioned below the tray assembly within the interior space, at least one upper heating element positioned above the tray assembly within the interior space, and a controller configured to operate the at least one upper and lower heating elements in accordance with a selected mode of a plurality of selectable modes, wherein operating parameters for the at least one upper and lower heating elements vary between the plurality of selectable modes.

Abstract: A food container is covered by a foil to enclose food to be steam cooked. A holding chamber has a lid configured to be opened so that the food container can be placed within the chamber. When the lid is closed, the food container is enclosed within the holding chamber. A plurality of first nozzles extending from the lid into the holding chamber wherein when the lid is closed, the plurality of nozzles penetrate through the foil of the food container. A shower of superheated steam is introduced into the food container through the nozzles to cook the food. Steam is pulled from the food container through a centrally located exhaust port in the lid, and is reheated and recirculated back into the food container through the nozzles.

Abstract: Cooking methods and devices for controlling doneness gradients and/or processes using modulated cooking techniques. A precision cooking appliance is provided that allows for cooking food to a precise internal temperature as well as keeping the food both before and after cooking at desired holding temperatures. One or more temperatures sensors are placed adjacent, near, and/or in the food to be cooked so that the temperature of at least one cooking surface can be controlled to reach the precise internal temperature. Related apparatus, systems, techniques and articles are also desribed.

Abstract: A beverage making apparatus including at least a beverage producing portion, a controllable by-pass water system, and at least one of a sweetener system or flavoring system in which the sweetener system and/or flavoring system controllably mixes a sweetener ingredient and/or flavoring ingredient with water external to the housing without mixing in a confined structure. A method for producing a beverage is provided including at least the steps of: providing a beverage making apparatus; providing a water dispensing system; providing at least one of a sweetener dispensing system and flavoring system; and controllably dispensing water and at least one of sweetener and flavoring externally of the apparatus for combination with beverage produced by the beverage making apparatus.

Abstract: A beverage maker includes a body and a cover movably attached to the body. The body includes therein (among other components), a tank, a pump, and a pressure release valve in fluid communication with at least the pump and tank for releasing the pressure therein. The cover mechanically actuates or releases the pressure release valve into one of an open or closed position, upon movement of the cover to a closed position. The cover actuating or releasing the pressure release valve into the other of the open or closed positions, upon movement of the cover from the closed position toward an open position.

Abstract: A beverage maker includes a body and a cover movably attached to the body. The body includes therein (among other components), a tank, a pump, a controller, a switch electrically coupled with the pump, and a pressure release valve in fluid communication with at least the pump and tank for releasing the pressure therein. The cover mechanically actuates the switch into an “on” position, to maintain the pump in an inoperable condition, and mechanically actuate or release the pressure release valve into one of an open or closed position, upon movement of the cover to the closed position thereof The cover releases the switch for return into the “off” position, placing the pump in an operational condition, and mechanically actuating or releasing the pressure release valve into the other of the open or closed positions, upon movement of the cover from the closed position toward the open position.

Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a first reservoir for receiving a liquid to be used for preparing a beverage. A hot water generator (‘HWG’) has an inlet end, an outlet end and a passageway extending therebetween. The inlet end of the HWG is connected to the first reservoir. Liquid from the first reservoir flows into the HWG through the inlet end. A second reservoir is connected to the outlet end of the HWG. The second reservoir includes a discharge port, a gas vent and a skirt extending from a wall of the second reservoir further than the gas vent. The skirt at least partially surrounds the gas vent. At least a portion of the skirt is spaced laterally inwardly from an outer sidewall of the second reservoir.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and articles to provide customized control of a cooking appliance. A user provides a selection of one or more ending characteristics for a food product. A processor-based device determines one or more output food preparation parameters based on the user's selection of the one or more ending characteristics. Measurements of temperature, power, or other characteristics may be obtained during cooking process. A cooking program controlling the cooking process may be revised or updated based at least in part on the obtained measurements or analysis of the measurements. Estimations or projections about the cooking process may be presented to a user via a user interface of the cooking appliance or a user interface of a computing device (e.g., smartphone) associated with the user. The processor-based device may autonomously detect a temperature scale of a temperature setting input by a user without requiring the user to specify the temperature scale.

Abstract: The container (1) includes an airtight safety pocket (3) for housing the reaction chamber (4) which generates the heating or cooling effect. The safety pocket is built by folding a sheet inside the container and joining its ends to the edges of the container.

Abstract: A barbeque accessory assembly for use with a barbeque grill having an enclosure within which is contained a fire ring positioned over a fire box, and a grill grate positioned in vertically spaced relation above the fire ring. A deflector plate is adapted for being positioned in the enclosure between the grill grate and the fire box, and a plurality of openings extend around the periphery of the deflector plate for permitting heat and smoke to rise along the sides of the grill above the level of the deflector plate 190 into an area of the grille grate where the food is being cooked or smoked.

Abstract: The present invention is an improved method to grind coffee where grinding speed can be adjusted either on demand or according to a programmed profile. By lowering the rotational speed of the grinding burrs, the user can insure more consistent particle size for types of coffee or methods of brewing where it is desirable, or dramatically increase speed for greater productivity. By incorporating a load cell, the grinder is able to identify coffee brewing device and deliver portioned ground coffee according to program settings or user input. The device also features an improved hopper design to reduce waste and ease whole bean removal. More importantly is a new method to calibrate the distance between the grinder mills and to automatically adjust grinder particle size so that a given numerical value is consistent for each grinder and every user.

Abstract: A spice mill includes a gear mechanism operable in a first operational state wherein the gear mechanism is coupled to a first grinding mechanism and a second operational state wherein the gear mechanism is coupled to a second grinding mechanism. A selector connected to the gear mechanism is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the gear mechanism is operable in the first operational state and in the second position the gear mechanism is operable in the second operational state. A cover part is rotatably mounted to the body and connected to the gear mechanism. Rotation of the cover part in a first direction rotates the first grinding mechanism when the gear mechanism is in the first operational state and rotation of the cover part in the first direction rotates the second grinding mechanism when the gear mechanism is in the second operational state.

Abstract: An economical blender with a removable, motor driven spindle assembly to perform blending, a motor driven elevator used to lift a cup with food or beverage up to the spindle assembly and a liquid reservoir which allows liquid to be inserted into the food or beverage during blending. The removable spindle assembly has a quick release coupler and a compression spring which connects the quick release coupler to a cup cover. Blending is accomplished by connecting a motor driven inner spindle drive shaft to a concentric outer spindle drive tube through cogged couplers. The outer spindle drive tube powers a blending tool and, like the blending tool, is removable with the spindle assembly for cleaning.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for preparing a meal with a food processor (1) based on a recipe, wherein a mobile data storage (4) is connected with a communication interface (3) of the food processor (1), so as to transfer data of a recipe contained in the mobile data storage (4) to the food processor (1) to control preparation steps. In order to allow the user to select and display recipes more comfortably, in particular more quickly, it is proposed that a data processor (5) of the food processor (1) combine a first data portion {6} of the recipe contained in a machine data storage {2} of the food processor (1) and a second data portion (7) of the recipe contained in the mobile data storage (4) to yield a complete data record (8), and based on the complete data record (8) generate commands for controlling preparation steps of the food processor (1). In addition, the invention relates to a corresponding food processor, as well as to a food processor system.

Abstract: A container configured for use with a food processing system is provided including a container body configurable with a food processing base. A chamber is defined by the container body. A pressure relief mechanism is associated with the container body and is configured to relieve pressure when the pressure within the chamber exceeds a defined pressure threshold.

Abstract: A bread keeper is formed as storage container for holding bread, and may be configurable between expanded and contracted positions. A door is attached to allow access to the bread within he container. The door folds flat to rest on a horizontal surface such as a countertop, and is constructed from a material suitable for use as a cutting board, thereby allowing the bread to be cut while extending partially out of the container and onto the cutting board.

Abstract: A bathtub with a limited rectangular footprint and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck that extends inwardly from an outer substantially vertical front wall surface for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.

Abstract: A bathtub providing safe egress from a slippery bathtub floor has a limited rectangular footprint and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck that extends inwardly from an outer substantially vertical front wall surface for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.

Abstract: A bathtub providing safe egress by reducing slide forces extended on a user's feet upon a slippery bathtub floor, has a limited rectangular footprint, and an optimized floor space is formed with a substantially planar base with a length and width that define the limited rectangular footprint and a front wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall integral with and extending substantially vertically upwards from the substantially planar base. Each of the front, back, first side wall and second side wall have minimal wall thicknesses to define the optimized floor space and the front wall has a substantially planar upper apron deck for a fixed amount in a substantially parallel relation to the substantially planar base.

Abstract: It is well known that plastic shower curtains can develop mildew and/or mold where the curtain adheres to another surface and remains moist, such as the edge of a bathtub. A shower curtain with at least a portion of the surface being non-smooth is disclosed. In some embodiments, appendages extend outwardly from the surface of the curtain. The appendages prevent the surface of the curtain from adhering to another surface via surface tension of water. Furthermore, the appendages create an air gap that enables air to flow freely between the curtain and its adjacent surface. The appendages also reduce the surface area of the curtain in contact with the adjacent surface.

Abstract: This invention relates to a kit and method for for allowing a handicapped user to use a standard bathtub and/or shower by providing a ramp and bathtub or shower insert which is uniquely designed to fit within any standard bathtub or shower without the need for costly demolition and replacement. Such a system requires little to no installation and may be made portable and lightweight for storage and/or travel. The invention works with any type of bathing enclosures, bathtub, or shower.

Abstract: A collapsible liquid container for a fluid dispenser is provided and includes an upper wall, a collapsible sidewall, a bottom wall, fluid, and a dispensation mechanism. The upper wall, the collapsible sidewall, and the bottom wall cooperate to define a pressurized liquid reservoir. The fluid is contained within the liquid reservoir. A fluid dispenser includes a housing, a collapsing member, and a biasing member. The housing comprises an upper container portion and a support portion. The upper container portion at least partially defines an interior chamber for receiving the collapsible liquid container. The support portion extends downwardly from the upper container portion. The collapsing member is disposed within the interior chamber and is movably coupled with the upper container portion. The biasing member is coupled with the collapsing member and the housing and is configured to bias the collapsing member toward the dispensation zone.

Abstract: A system for sensing and monitoring excretion produced in a toilet bowl by a user. The system comprises at least a toilet seat for positioning on the toilet bowl, where the toilet seat comprises at least one sensor for sensing the excretion. Communication means provides an indication that the excretion produced by the user is in the toilet bowl. The system further comprises a remote receiver for receiving the indication and providing feedback thereof.