Abstract: A fabric gathering device including a clasp having a front half hingedly attached to a back half, a plurality of rounded ridges continuously disposed on a front surface of the back half of the clasp, an aperture disposed through the back half of the clasp, a pin disposed on a back surface of the front half of the clasp, and a pin cap removably disposed on an apex of the pin. The clasp has an open position and an alternate closed position. The pin is disposed through the aperture when the clasp is in the closed position. The pin is disposed outside of the aperture when the clasp is in the open position.

Abstract: According to one embodiment, a coupling component includes a female component and a male component. The female component includes a main body portion and a coupling aperture. Similarly, the male component includes a main body portion and a coupling member. The coupling member that is mateable with the coupling aperture of the female component to couple the male and female components together. The main body portion of the male component includes a top surface and a relatively planar bottom surface. The coupling member includes a relatively planar top surface and a bottom surface. The relatively planar top surface of the coupling member is offset from the relatively planar bottom surface of the male component. The male and female components are non-releasable from a coupled engagement while under tension via a tension member.

Abstract: A fastening arrangement comprises a first fastening member connected to a first strap and a second fastening member connected to a second strap. The first fastening member includes a first surface comprising at least one first interlocking member. The second fastening member includes a channel positioned between a second surface and a biasing member. The channel is configured to receive the first fastening member with the first surface facing the second surface. The second surface includes at least one second interlocking member configured to engage the first interlocking member in a manner that blocks the first interlocking member from moving relative to the second interlocking member in at least one direction. The biasing member is configured to urge the first interlocking member into engagement with the second interlocking member when the first fastening member is inserted into the channel of the second fastening member.

Abstract: An end guide for a cord attachment device includes a cloth. The cloth is configured to fold over, unto, and overlap itself. The cloth has three portions. The first and second portions are longer than a third portion. The cloth is folded axially about a central longitudinal axis. The central longitudinal axis spans from the proximal end to the distal end of the cloth. The folding causes the first and second portions to overlap. A plurality of flutes are configured in the cloth by a plurality of stitch lines running parallel to each other and extending through first and second sides (the front and back) of the cloth and extending through the overlap of the first and second portions. At least one of the plurality of stitch lines are located between each of the flutes. The flutes span to both the proximal and distal ends of the cloth.

Abstract: A fixturing apparatus that includes a planar member having a first end, a second end, a front surface, and a rear surface, wherein the planar member is formed to include an aperture extending therethrough, a handle attached to the front surface adjacent the second end and extending outwardly therefrom, and a plurality of locking teeth disposed on the rear surface adjacent the second end.

Abstract: A hinged slider for a closure assembly of a bag. The hinged slider includes a top wall, a pair of legs that extends vertically from the top wall, and a pair of wings hingedly attached to the pair of legs. In one embodiment, the pair of wings hinges upwardly in order to install the slider onto the closure assembly. In another embodiment, the pair of wings hinges downwardly in order to install the slider onto the closure assembly. A storage bag is also provided, in which the storage bag includes at least one zipper profile and a hinged slider in a straddling relation with the zipper profile.

Abstract: The invention relates to a watch strap strip (1) reinforcement (2) intended to be housed in a casing (3) of the strip made from a flexible material, wherein the reinforcement includes a linking element (4) mechanically connecting: an element (10) for fixing the strip to the watch case to an element (9) for fixing the strip to a closure element.

Abstract: A fastening structure of jewelry has a chain, and a locking seat and a locking assembly respectively mounted on two ends of the chain. The locking seat has an insertion recess with two stop protrusions. The locking assembly has a V-shaped resilient locking element and a resilient supporting element. The resilient locking element has a connecting end and a locking end with a pressing protrusion. The resilient supporting element is mounted between the connecting end and the pressing protrusion. The fastening structure has a simplified structure and compact size. Moreover, when the resilient locking element is inserted into the insertion recess of the locking seat, an end edge on the locking end of the resilient locking element securely abuts against the stop protrusions of the locking seat. Accordingly, the jewelry with the fastening structure does not drop off and does not get lost.

Abstract: A wearable freshening ring assembly comprises a fixed or flexible ring shank portion, integrally or mechanically connected to a personal care product receptacle, which is mechanically or frictionally connected to a personal care product capsule and a protective cap element. The ring shank portion is sized to fit a wearer's finger or is adjustable to fit a wearer's finger. The ring is made from formable materials such as jewelry grade metals and costume jewelry grade materials selected from non-precious metals, thermo-formable plastic resins, ceramics, leather, rubber, and flexible plastics, and include in their construction fabrics, woven materials and the like.

Abstract: The present invention concerns the field of jewelry and costume jewelry, and in particular its object is a customizable ornament that is suitable for forming, or for being incorporated in, a product such as a bracelet, a necklace, a ring, earrings, a pendant or any other similar personal accessory item.

Abstract: An article of manufacture includes decorative ornamentation relating to constellations. More specifically, the article of manufacture bears at least a first and a second pattern of first and second elements, respectively. In the first pattern, the first elements are arranged in relative positions that correspond to relative positions of stars in a first constellation. In the second pattern, the second elements are arranged in relative positions that correspond to relative positions of stars in a second constellation. The first and second patterns are superimposed on each other, forming a decorative ornamentation that represents a composite of the first and second constellations. The patterns can be configured so that a relative size of each element corresponds to a relative brightness of the constellation star corresponding to that element.

Abstract: A cane system having an adjustable shock absorber, a multi-angle handle, a straight handle, and a knob.

Abstract: A tip element, for mounting on to a rib of an umbrella frame, comprises a pair of wings, and optionally a mounting portion for mounting onto the umbrella rib. The wings at least defining an outer edge for a canopy mounted on the umbrella frame, wherein one wing may be mounted for pivotal movement relative to the umbrella rib. The wings, or at least one of the wings, can be pivotally mounted to the mounting portion by living or other hinges. Alternatively, the wings can be pivot directly about the umbrella rib.

Abstract: A shoe bag for transporting a pair of shoes comprising two individual compartments. The compartments are detachable from one another and include an interior protective lining. Each detachable compartment has its own opening that can be opened or closed independently from the opening for the other compartment. The detachable compartments allow more efficient packing of the shoes within the luggage's interior and also protect the shoes from each other and also prevents the shoes from soiling items packed in the luggage.

Abstract: An oral care kit (1000) including an oral care product (200) and a sticker panel (300). In one aspect, the invention may be an oral care kit (1000) comprising: a package (100); a toothbrush (200) disposed within the package (100); and a sticker panel (300) disposed within the package (100), the sticker panel (300) comprising a plurality of detachable stickers (301), the sticker panel (300) forming a sleeve through which a portion of the toothbrush (200) extends, the plurality of stickers (301) visible from outside of the package (100) through a substantially transparent portion of the package (100).

Abstract: A case for enclosing a personal electronic device with a front surface is described. The case comprises a front with an inside surface, an outside surface, and at least one raised front edge surface; a back with an inside surface to mount the personal electronic device, an outside surface, and at least one raised rear edge surface a surface cover; wherein the front inside surface. The front outside surface and the back outside surface are overlaid with the surface cover. The surface cover abuts the at least one raised front edge surface or the at least one raised rear edge surface.

Abstract: A hair styling and drying apparatus has a pair of pivotally connected arms, styling surfaces on the arms, air suction and discharge orifices in the styling surfaces, and a blower for blowing air through the air orifices and recycling air between the arms. At least some suction orifices of one styling surface can align with at least some discharge orifices of the other styling surface. The blowers blow air out the discharge orifices and suck air into the suction orifices, thereby recycling much of the blown air. The apparatus can include heaters for heating the blown air and for heating the styling surfaces.

Abstract: A cosmetic applicator is provided. The cosmetic applicator includes a flexible application member which is manufactured independently in a first shape. The cosmetic applicator includes a stem which is a cylindrical hollow body configured to receive the application member. The application member is configured to attain a second shape when constrained within the stem. The application member includes an elongated base member and an applicator head attached to a first side of the base member.

Abstract: An armband for an electronic device is provided. The armband includes a main body having a first surface and an opposing second surface, a first end and an opposing second end, and a longitudinal axis extending from the first end toward the opposing second end. The armband further includes a pocket formed between the first and second surfaces of the main body which is configured to removably receive an electronic device therein, an opening formed in the rear surface of the main body which provides access to the pocket and extends perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the main body, a flap configured to cover the opening, and a securing strap configured to removably secure the main body to an arm of a user.

Abstract: A collapsible holder has a front panel, a rear panel, a bottom panel, and two or more arms extending from the rear panel to the front panel. One or more apertures extend through the rear panel for attachment of a neck strap. The front panel, the rear panel, and the bottom panel are formed from a single piece of material, such that the rear panel and the front panel are hingedly connected to, and extend upward from, opposite ends of the bottom panel. The arms may be pivotably connected to the connectors. Additionally, a spring may be incorporated to bias the bottom panel toward the rear panel. The biasing of the bottom panel to the rear panel, combined with the hinged nature of the panels and the pivoting arms, creates lateral compression between the front panel and the rear panel. An accessory compartment may also extend from the rear panel.

Abstract: The foldable table has a flat Labe top and a pair of leg assemblies which fold inward from an operative position to an inoperative position. The leg assemblies are pivotal about separate axes which are spaced an unequal distance from the table top. When the leg assemblies are folded in an inoperative position, both of the leg assemblies lie parallel to each other and to the table top.

Abstract: A laundry transfer apparatus comprising a frame within which is disposed a transfer conduit that traverses a distance between the openings of a washing machine and dryer. A plurality of upper extensions are provided to enable the apparatus to rest on the top surfaces of the washing machine and dryer and to vertically suspend the apparatus so that the conduit is appropriately positioned for each use. The conduit preferably comprises a substantially planar surface formed by individual table sections that fold out to form the conduit when the laundry transfer apparatus is in use. The conduit is slidably engaged to the frame via a railing. When use of the laundry transfer apparatus is complete, the individual sections are folded upright and pushed into a retracted position for later use.

Abstract: A free standing self sterilizable device and method of construction by connecting together a plurality of connected individual modular components. The individual modular components are provided in such manner to enable multiple configurations in frame structure shape when assembled. The device is self sterilizing by its material composition, its open smooth surface and its downward or horizontal slanting surfaces. The device herein is intended for use in the food or medical industry.

Abstract: An improved worksurface for home and office furniture constructions. The improved worksurface generally includes a plurality of vertical openings disposed along at least a portion of the periphery of the worksurface, where the vertical openings are adapted to support removable and interchangeable accessories. The accessories can include shelving units, support stands, storage baskets, swivel arms, docking cradles, and display mounts, for example, each being positionable at multiple locations along the periphery of the worksurface. The vertical openings are optionally disposed within a recessed portion extending adjacent a rear edge of the worksurface. In use, a user can reposition the accessories as desired, providing enhanced flexibility and customization over existing constructions.

Abstract: A desktop storage cabinet adapted to sit on a desktop and support a privacy panel. The storage cabinet includes an integrated horizontal slide pocket along its back open at least a first end of the storage element and adapted to receive and support a privacy panel which extends from within the slide pocket outwardly beyond the pocket.

Abstract: A configurable furniture system and method are disclosed. The system and method include one or more panels, each of the panels having one or more working edges. One or more hinges successively connect the panels together at the working edges. The system is able to convert from a folded configuration into a functional configuration, which may be a chair, desk, lounge, table or stool.

Abstract: A touch-latch device used in furniture especially for initial opening of an opening furniture component, comprising a housing with an axially arranged groove, in which a push element is slidingly arranged, said element being actuated by a helical spring and controllable by a dual-position guide mechanism comprising a cam groove guide and an S-pin, wherein the device comprises a push element controlled by two dual-position guide mechanisms, wherein each cam groove guide of a dual-position guide mechanism is arranged on a lateral side of the push element and the S-pin is pivoted in the lateral wall of the groove of the housing, and that the push element is provided at its free end with a regulation plug arranged by means of a bolted joint, said plug being displaceable in axial direction, wherein the axial displacement of the regulation plug is limited by an arrester arranged therein.

Abstract: An inflatable water craft for underwater observation, the craft incorporating an integral underwater viewing window which includes a top and bottom transparent lens sonic welded to the craft intermediate a cavity which passes through the top and bottom of the craft forming a viewing port. Inflatable stand-offs protect the bottom lens. The top and bottom lenses includes a closeable vent. An inflatable pillow is sonic welded proximal the top transparent lens. Inflatable boarding guides center the user on the craft and air chambers support the user's body weight thereby preventing sagging or bending of the craft. The craft may further comprise a hand-held device for wading and swimming activities. Use of sonic welding and specific materials prevents undesired leakage into viewing port and prevents discoloration of the top and bottom lenses.

Abstract: A salon chair with a tool caddy and an integral electrical supply. A salon chair that includes an integrated tool work station with the capacity to hold a hair dryer, curling irons, clippers and the like at the rear of the chair. The chair is powered by an integrated electrical power source inside the chairs' tool compartment and power is supplied through to the base of the chair. The power source may be connected to an outlet under the chair or concealed under a power extension with cord cover (preventing trips and falls), or may be otherwise coupled to utility power.

Abstract: An anatomical pillow configured for use by a woman includes a compressible body having an upper surface, lower surface, a top, a first side, a second side, a bottom, and a central recess. The relative dimensions and geometries of the segments and surfaces are selected to accommodate a woman lying prone on the pillow with her head above the upper surface and her torso lying on the bottom segment.

Abstract: A mattress bucket retention mechanism and device for securing a mattress on an automated bed is provided. Embodiments of the invention relate to an integrated mattress bucket retention mechanism for an adjustable bed. In one embodiment, the mattress bucket retention mechanism secures a mattress against articulating deckboard panels of an adjustable bed. In other embodiments, the mattress bucket retention mechanism provides a replaceable top surface for covering a mattress. Further, the mattress bucket retention mechanism may serve as a protective surround for the mattress. Embodiments of the mattress bucket retention mechanism include a deckboard having a deckboard edge, a mattress wrap having side panels and a top panel, and a zipper closure mechanism, which are used to create an interior compartment for securing a mattress.

Abstract: A stand system suspends a baby car seat on baby car seat sling in which the baby car seat may pivot freely in any direction. A mounting plate elevated above the floor by three elongated leg supports attaches to the baby car seat sling harnessing a baby car seat is used as a platform for holding the suspended baby car seat in a laying position located below the mounting plate above the floor. Each elongated leg equal in length comprise 5 dowel sections. A three-way brace across the bottom of the elongated legs interconnects the elongated leg's foot-end to a center point. The disclosed stand system which is the product invention may be easily assembled by hand for product use and disassembled for compact storage and ease of transportation.

Abstract: A showcase member of a glass showcase, the showcase member including a first portion having a plurality of apertures, a light emitting diode (LED) module positioned at one or more of the plurality of apertures and mounted to the showcase member, and a wiring harness electrically connected to the LED module, and configured to electrically connect the LED module to an LED driver circuit. The showcase member can include a second portion integral to the first portion and having tapers forming light shields protruding from the showcase member.

Abstract: Provided is a refrigerator, which includes a refrigerating compartment, a freezing compartment, and a door assembly. The freezing compartment is adjacent to the refrigerating compartment. The door assembly selectively opens the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment. The door assembly includes a glass member defining a frontal exterior thereof and allowing an inside of the refrigerating compartment or the freezing compartment to be seen therethrough when the door assembly is closed, a deposition treated layer formed on a rear surface of the glass member to allow light to partially pass through the glass member, and a transparent plate spaced a predetermined distance from the glass member. Gas for insulation is injected in a space formed between the glass member and the transparent plate, and the space is sealed.

Abstract: Provided is a refrigerator, which includes a refrigerating compartment, a freezing compartment, and a door assembly. The freezing compartment is adjacent to the refrigerating compartment. The door assembly selectively opens the refrigerating compartment and the freezing compartment. The door assembly includes a glass member defining a frontal exterior thereof and allowing an inside of the refrigerating compartment or the freezing compartment to be seen therethrough when the door assembly is closed, a deposition treated layer formed on a rear surface of the glass member to allow light to partially pass through the glass member, and a transparent plate spaced a predetermined distance from the glass member. Gas for insulation is injected in a space formed between the glass member and the transparent plate, and the space is sealed.

Abstract: A jewelry case, easily assembled from a knock-down kit, with viewable spaces and removable sections to display and handle necklaces, bracelets, pendants, rings and the similar jewelry pieces. The case is made of a durable and transparent plastic including a top, back surface, bottom and front surfaces, a pair of end surfaces with apertures, multiple pull out racks having hook assemblies with a way to hold the jewelry, and a container and cubicle drawer for rings, pins, broaches, etc. so that the case may be filled with jewelry for display and storage. The case kit provides a flat, knock-down components package for easy and economical shipping, gifting and storage.

Abstract: A food shield has shield panels that are location adjustable and angularly adjustable in respect of support structures (posts) that are coupled to a mounting surface, such as a surface of a buffet table or cart. For vertical or location adjustment of a shield panel in relation to a post, a bracket assembly includes outer and inner collar portions, a grip element positioned between the outer and inner collar portions, and a tightening element that tightens the connection of the assembled collar against support posts. For angular adjustment, each bracket assembly includes an indexing base, a rotatable arm assembly with an indexing hub, and a removable or retractable coupling element. Alternative bracket assemblies provide support elements that contact one face of the shield panel, in addition to having clamps that engage the shield panel at or near each of the front and rear panel edges.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a pillow, which aids a user to sleep soundly when the user is lying on the back, and makes breathing easier and helps stimulate the acupuncture points on the face when the user is lying on the stomach and rests the face on the pillow. To this end, the present invention comprises: a main body; a neck support part, which is formed in the longitudinal direction at the front side of the main body and has a height higher than the height of the main body; a ventilation hole, which penetrates the center of the neck support part into the center of the main body; an incline support part, which is provided on the main body in contact with the ventilation hole, and has a gradual decline towards the ventilation hole; and an acupuncture point stimulation part provided in a protruding manner on the ventilation hole side of the neck support part.

Abstract: A dispensing container is equipped with a battery powered orientation dependent illumination device.

Abstract: The present invention provides a container including a system for personal identification. A series of bands are mounted between ridges formed circumferentially around the container. The bands have symbols printed in a color similar to the container. The bands can be rotated around the container to position selected symbols over a patch printed on the container in a contrasting color to make the selected symbol visible.

Abstract: A butter dish having a rotatable lid that opens to an obtuse angle to give wide access to butter stored on a base cover by the lid. The butter dish includes the base, a rear wall defining a rotational axis located above the base and toward the rear of the base and the lid is mounted to the rear wall and rotates between closed and opened positions.

Abstract: An adjustable kitchen utensil includes a first component having a first handle portion, and a first serving portion attached to the first handle portion by a first connecting portion. An embodiment of the adjustable kitchen utensil includes a second component having a second handle portion, and a second serving portion attached to the second handle portion by a second connecting portion. This embodiment has an attachment mechanism for attaching the first and second components. The attachment mechanism permits adjustment of the size of a serving surface of the attached first and second serving portions. An alternate embodiment includes a removable handle subassembly.

Abstract: The application discloses and claims a beverage container lid that tracks the amount of fluid consumed. The lid has a standard drinking nozzle and engagement means which includes a gasket or standard threading that sealably fit commercially available beverage containers and water bottles. The exterior of the lid has a reset button and a display window through which a display readout is visible that displays the amount of fluid consumed. The lid houses the display, a CPU, battery, sensors and internal housing through which the water flows. The internal housing has a water wheel inside of it with curved blades that are turned by the beverage as it flows out of the lid. Magnets are affixed to one or more of the blades. The CPU tracks the number of times the magnets pass the sensors and translates it into the amount of fluid consumed, which is shown on the display.

Abstract: Devices and methods to assist a user in donning hosiery are provided. The device comprises an elongated flexible blade extending between a distal end and a proximal end, the blade configured to contact at least a portion of a user's foot, the blade having a textured inner surface configured to face towards the user's lower leg, and an smooth opposing outer surface relative to the textured inner surface.

Abstract: A sound-insulating curtain includes a sound-absorbing core formed by laminating porous sheets and films, is covered by covers, and sewn in an integrated manner. Even after being integrally laminated, adjacently laminated layers are not excessively restrained in places other than sewn areas, and therefore displacement and deformation between layers caused by sound pressure can be tolerated. Sound absorption effects are appropriately produced by each layer, which tolerates such displacement and deformation, while reliably maintaining integrity during handling. Thus, the entire curtain maintains the ability to absorb sounds, efficiently attenuates noise that attempts to pass through the curtain, and suppresses the transmission of noise, thereby enabling noise to be reliably prevented from passing through the curtain.

Abstract: A vessel (1) for heating the contents thereof by means of an external heat source (8) comprises a non-horizontal side wall (2) and a heat transfer structure (6) attached to and in good thermal contact with, or formed integrally on, an outer surface of said side wall.

Abstract: The present invention provides a water heater capable of heating fluid to boiling point, wherein said heater includes a heating element, a water level gauge, a temperature measure, and a transceiver; wherein control of at least the element is provided by a mobile communication device communicating with the transceiver.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for opening and closing a cartridge holder of a beverage forming machine. The cartridge holder may have an opening arranged to receive and hold a cartridge with the cartridge holder in an open position, e.g., the opening may face a front of the beverage forming machine and be in an upwardly inclined position in the open position. A pivot pin of the cartridge holder may be moved along a linear path, and in response, a cam and cam follower may cause the cartridge holder to pivot and move to a closed position, e.g., in which the opening of the cartridge holder is in a downwardly inclined orientation.

Abstract: Techniques are provided for creating a consumable liquid food or beverage product from frozen contents. A container is configured for insertion into an apparatus. The container includes a frozen content, a receptacle defining an opening and a cavity for receiving and storing the frozen content, and a closure formed over the opening of the receptacle for sealing the frozen content within the cavity of the receptacle. The receptacle is perforable, and the container is configured for insertion into an apparatus that is configured to create a consumable liquid beverage from the frozen content within the container, such that the frozen content is extracted through a perforation created in the receptacle by the apparatus.

Abstract: A flow-through heater for heating a fluid comprises: a high thermal conductivity conduit-defining body shaped to provide, within the conduit-defining body, a helical-shaped or spiral-shaped conduit that extends between an inlet port and an outlet port; and one or more heating elements operatively connected to an exterior of the conduit-defining body for providing heat to the conduit-defining body and to any fluid flowing through the conduit. Because of the high thermal conductivity of the conduit-defining body, all of the surfaces of the conduit-defining body that actually define the conduit contribute significantly to heating the fluid in the conduit. Each conduit-defining surface may contribute to heating the fluid in approximately equal proportion to its conduit-defining surface area.