Abstract: An ergonomic chair with an auto-adjusting headrest having a base assembly including floor base, a seat bottom, and vertical structure. A seat back frame and back plate are pivotally attached to the base assembly. An arc-shaped guide bar and head rest restraint are slideably disposed on the back plate. such that the back plate slides approximately parallel to the seat back frame. Arc shaped guide bar rotates as the seat back is tilted rearward and forward.

Abstract: A chair includes a base, a support element and a torsion element. The support element is coupled to the base and includes a seat region, a backrest region and a transition region connecting the seat region and the backrest region. The backrest region is reclinable relative to the seat region by way of elastic deformation of the support element. The torsion element is coupled to the base and to the backrest region. The torsion element controls the reclining of the backrest region relative to the seat region. The support element is exclusively connected to the torsion element above a lumbar region, wherein the backrest region can be inclined and/or twisted in relation to the seat region.

Abstract: A seat incorporating insert(s) intermediate its upper and lower surfaces. A seat insert for the support of the users buttocks conforms to the user's body, has “rebound” properties, and areas adapted to underlie the perineum and/or ischiums of a user softer than the rest of the seat insert. Alternatively, a perineal insert and/or ischium inserts may be used without the seat insert described. Finally, a heatable insert can be used in conjunction with or in the absence of said seat inserts to provide heat for the comfort of a seat user. In all cases, the aforesaid inserts are preferably completely encapsulated and enclosed by the foam materials making up the seat, which can be accomplished by molding the seat around the insert(s), creating a seat with various internal density zones, adjustable heat, and enhanced abilities to conform to the user's body, while limiting pressure on perineum and/or ischiums.

Abstract: A seating device includes a training device connected to a component of the base of the seating device. The training device is configured to tilt the seating device to help a user learn how to use the seating device to help the user avoid losing the user's balance while sitting or leaning on the seat of the seating device when the user initially starts to use the seating device. The training device can be releasable from the base of the seating device after the user has learned how to balance on the seating device. The training device can also be reattachable to the seating device to facilitate the training of other users.

Abstract: An adjustable toilet footrest assembly has a main footrest and a height-adjusting accessory, wherein the height-adjusting accessory is removably attachable to the top of the main footrest and wherein the height-adjusting accessory is nestable to the underside of the main footrest when not in use.

Abstract: A ready-to-assemble bed foundation in kit form including a pair of exterior beams connectable to a pair of transverse end members having openings, and an interior beam between the exterior beams having opposing end portions configured to engage the openings in the transverse end members. A method of selling a bed, and a method of assembling a bed are also disclosed.

Abstract: An enhanced washable mattress topper is disclosed, which allows the entire topper (including the cushion element) to be washed and/or dried. The topper typically comprises a cushion element, which may include of a fiber-foam layer and a spacer fabric layer, within a cover.

Abstract: Various implementations include a towel with a T-pocket and/or a method to sew a “T” pocket into a towel. The pocket in the towel may orient, support and/or secure the towel draped over a seat back or frame structure. The frame structure may be capable being accessibly and removably coupled to suitable objects, such as car seats and other seating having back rests or frames used to display advertising messages or items placed on display resting in the T-pocket. The T-pocket component may include a first end and a longer second end, the longer second end employed to provide a level of protection for the underlying seat and comfort to the seated person, but also allow the person to dry himself and maintain warmth.

Abstract: A child booster seat includes a base, a flexible connecting member, two attachment parts, and a mechanism. The base has a seat plate for a child sitting thereon. The flexible connecting member is attached to the base. The attachment parts are attached to two ends of the flexible connecting member. The mechanism is disposed on the base for tensing the flexible connecting member. When the child booster seat is secured on a chair through the two attachment parts, the mechanism is operated to tense the flexible connecting member, so that the child booster seat is secured firmly and it is hard to move the child booster seat relative to the adult chair.

Abstract: This invention relates to a cushion for a baby or toddler to sleep or rest on. It consist of a fully padded base with raised cushions on each side and at the head of the cushion.

Abstract: An infant device, such as in infant swing, establishes a wireless connection with a parent's existing portable electronic device, such as a smartphone. The portable electronic device sends messages to control any of the functions associated with the infant device. The portable electronic device also sends video and voice to be output at the infant device, allowing the child to remotely see and hear the parent's face and voice. The infant device sends messages with status information on the system enabling the portable electronic device to remotely monitor the system. The infant device also sends messages to the parent's existing portable electronic device containing audio and/or video information recorded from the child, allowing the parent to remotely see and hear the child in the system.

Abstract: A two piece, easy-to-assemble hutch for shipping and displaying items is provided. The hutch comprises two laterally opposing, hinged sidewalls, one or more elongated horizontal front panels, a rear wall and shelves made of two halves. The hutch is moveable between a first position in which each shelf is folded up against itself and a second position in which each shelf forms a substantially planar load supporting surface.

Abstract: An apparatus that helps hang wall art. A clamp attachable to a hanging element of an item of wall art that has a marking implement removably attached to the clamp and a marking tip oriented towards a wall surface opposite the wall hanging element. The marking tip simply marks the spot on the wall, and if the user decides on another location, the mark can be wiped off, with no damage to the wall.

Abstract: Trays for food are disclosed. A tray includes a plurality of receptacles, or compartments, for different courses of a meal (e.g., the entrée, a vegetable, a fruit, a starch, a dessert, a drink, etc.). Compartments for relatively unhealthful items may be configured to make the portion sizes of those items appear to be larger than they are, while compartments for healthful items may be configured to make the portion sizes of those items appear to be smaller than they are. The tray may also be configured to ensure that healthful items are positioned closest to an individual who is eating from the tray. Methods for presenting food to an individual are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention provides an improvement on what currently exists, with improved traction. The present invention also provides for better scooping and/or cutting. Unlike the traditional chopstick which does not pick up food items easily or manipulate the food items, like cutting or scooping, the present invention provides a covering attachment having pick up features, scooping features and cutting features, making chopsticks into better eating tools and more sanitary.

Abstract: A drinking straw for transferring fluids is provided with a body shaped as a cylindrical tube and one aperture. The body includes a first end, a second end, and an outer surface. Furthermore, the aperture extends from the first end of the body to the second end of the body and the aperture defines an inner surface. Additionally, the straw includes an angle point where the upper region of the straw is displaced at a fixed angle with respect to the lower region. Both the outer surface of the straw and the inner surface have the same non-circular shape.

Abstract: A coaster type device having a base with or without an integrated boss, the base is attached to side walls that end in a seal around the can's circumference. The combination of the coaster being made of one piece without openings and the seal around the circumference of the can allows it to trap the rust in the coaster even when under direct water. This allows the device to be used in a daily routine where a product is normally placed for use such as a shaving cream can in the shower under direct water or a bug spray left outside on a table in the rain.

Abstract: An assistance system including a support and two stretching members wherein a retaining part and a base of at least a first of the stretching members extend respectively in transverse planes, the transverse plane containing the retaining part of the first stretching member being offset towards the retaining part of the second stretching member relative to the base of said first stretching member, and wherein the first stretching member includes: a shaped rod and having a bow for forming a body having a recess, an external connecting element to which the base is linked, and an internal connecting element parallel to the external connecting element.

Abstract: A work platform has a top member with a surface sized to receive a user's feet thereon while standing and a bottom member coupled to the top member. The bottom member has a width and length generally equal to the width and length of the top member. The bottom member has a curved surface generally at the longitudinal center of the work platform defined at least partially by a radius of curvature of between about 100 mm and about 850 mm. The curved surface induces instability under a user standing on the top member to thereby facilitate active muscle engagement in the user's legs while standing on the work platform.

Abstract: Window curtain rod assemblies that include a telescoping rod and two alignment bracket assemblies, each including a support arm and an alignment mounting bracket are disclosed. Each alignment bracket assembly includes a horizontal portion that extends in a horizontal direction parallel with an axial direction of the telescoping curtain rod away from the vertical edges of a window frame to allow the alignment bracket assembly to be mounted adjacent to the vertical edges of the window frame, while still allowing the curtain to extend beyond the vertical edge of the window frame. The support arms may include a first substantially cylindrical end and a second end. The alignment mounting bracket may be attached to the second end, and include a vertical guide leg having a vertical guide edge and horizontal guide edge.

Abstract: Window curtain tension rod assemblies that include a telescoping rod and two bracket assemblies each including a support arm and a mounting bracket are disclosed. Each support arm may include a first end receiving an end of the curtain rod, a second end, and a U-shaped section between the first and second ends. The mounting bracket may be attached to the second end, and include a contact pad for engaging an interior sidewall of a window frame. The U-shaped section provides a curtain overlap region when a curtain is drawn onto the U-shaped section of the support arm from the curtain rod. At least one of the bracket assemblies may include a tension adjusting mechanism to move an end of the curtain rod away from the bracket assembly to thereby force the mounting bracket against the sidewalls of the window frame.

Abstract: A mounting bracket lock may be configured to secure the mounting bracket of a window treatment housing to a rail of the housing. The mounting bracket lock may be slidably attachable to the rail and, when in a locked position, may prevent the mounting bracket from detaching from the rail. The mounting bracket lock may include a body that is mountable to the rail. The body may include a first portion that slidably attaches to the rail, and a second portion that receives a portion of the rail and a portion of the mounting bracket, thereby securing the mounting bracket in a locked position relative to the rail. The body of the mounting bracket lock may define one or more projections that extend therefrom, and that engage in a friction fit between corresponding surfaces of the mounting bracket when the mounting bracket lock is in the locked position.

Abstract: The disclosure provides systems and methods of use pertaining to a portable rocket-type heating and cooking system. The heating and cooking system features three distinct cooking surfaces designed for simultaneous use and may be dismantled and transported for use in a variety of environments, including use as a heating and cooking device in the home as a fireplace insert, use outdoors in a hiking or camping setting, or use in a developing-world application as a third-world outdoor or indoor kitchen. The heating and cooking system features a combustion chamber and exhaust chimney having optimized dimensions to achieve maximum combustion efficiency, which translates to increased heating and cooking capacities as well as reduced smoke exhaustion. Other embodiments are also disclosed.

Abstract: A system to control the salinity of an industrial pasta cooker. The system uses a model predictive estimator to estimate the state of the salt content, and predict an amount of salt to add to the system, in order to reach and maintain the target salinity. Salt may be added in short bursts, or gradually and continually to maintain the proper salt levels. Rather than use a human to taste, the system employs at least one sensor (conductivity, temperature and potentially a water level sensor) and a-priori knowledge of the system dynamics to estimate the system state using a state-estimating filter, such as a Kalman filter. This allows the system to reject noise from the sensor, and distinguish between NaCl and other compounds added to the water that effect the conductivity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a cold beverage preparation device (20), the device comprising an open cooling reservoir (5) for receiving a liquid beverage, cooling means (15) associated to the cooling reservoir (5) for cooling at least part of an internal surface of the cooling reservoir, a rotational stirring member (16) arranged in the cooling reservoir (5) for mixing or foaming the liquid depending on the speed of rotation of the member, and a rotational scraping member (17) arranged in the cooling reservoir (5) for scraping the internal surface of the cooling reservoir, wherein the rotational stirring member (16) and the scraping member (17) are designed for being driven independently within the cooling reservoir (5) of the device.

Abstract: An extraction appliance with a brewing module for forming a brewing chamber for a portion capsule, with a water feed comprising a pump and a water heater for feeding water under pressure to the brewing chamber. The extraction appliance includes a control for the pump that can be integrated into the pump or be present at least partly externally of the pump, as well as a device for measuring the fluid flow into the brewing chamber. The control is configured such that a pump power of the pump is dependent on the fluid flow, and specifically such that given a lower fluid flow, the pump power is reduced in comparison to a greater fluid flow.

Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems and methods are disclosed. The beverage preparation system can include a container manipulation assembly having a support assembly and an elevator. The support assembly can be configured to receive a container. The elevator can be connected with the support assembly and can be configured to translate and/or rotate the support assembly. In some embodiments, the beverage preparation system includes a wand manipulation assembly having a wand unit and a mechanical linkage. The linkage can be configured to move the wand unit into and out of engagement with the container on the support assembly. The wand unit can provide a flow of fluid, such as steam, to liquid in the container to heat and/or froth the liquid.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for preparing a brewed beverage including utilizing a predetermined amount of brewed substance and a predetermined amount of water. The process comprises dispensing a first amount of water into a receiving apparatus, wherein the first amount is less than the predetermined amount of water of the brewed beverage. The process further comprises dispensing the predetermined amount of brewed substance into the receiving apparatus. The process further comprises dispensing a second amount of water into the receiving apparatus, wherein the second amount of water is less than the predetermined amount of water of the brewed beverage.

Abstract: A coffee dose adjustment tool has interchangeable or adjustable blades for adjustment of the coffee fill height within a portafilter dosing tool.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a beverage preparation device for preparing hot and cold beverages, the device (30) comprising a hot extraction module (10) comprising a brewing unit (1) for injection of hot liquid into a beverage ingredients containing capsule, a hot beverage outlet (2) connected to the brewing unit (1) for dispensing of a hot extracted beverage, and a cooling module (20) comprising a cooling reservoir (5) for receiving the hot extracted beverage, wherein the hot beverage outlet (2) and the cooling module (20) are arranged moveably relative to each other such that the hot extracted beverage may be selectively dispensed from the hot beverage outlet (2) into the cooling reservoir (5) of the cooling module (20) in at least one relative position of the hot beverage outlet (2) and the cooling module (5).

Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems and methods are disclosed. The beverage preparation system can include a dispensing unit configured to receive beverage, such as a shot of espresso, from a beverage preparation machine. The dispensing unit can include a dispensing unit with a first end and a second end. The dispensing unit can be rotatable between an upright position and an inverted position. The dispensing unit can be configured to receive the beverage through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the upright position, and can be configured to receive cleansing fluid through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the inverted position. In some embodiments, when the dispensing unit is in an intermediate position between the upright and inverted positions, the dispensing unit is configured to dispense the beverage out of the first end and into a cup or other vessel.

Abstract: Various beverage preparation systems and methods are disclosed. The beverage preparation system can include a dispensing unit configured to receive beverage, such as a shot of espresso, from a beverage preparation machine. The dispensing unit can include a dispensing unit with a first end and a second end. The dispensing unit can be rotatable between an upright position and an inverted position. The dispensing unit can be configured to receive the beverage through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the upright position, and can be configured to receive cleansing fluid through the second end when the dispensing unit is in the inverted position. In some embodiments, when the dispensing unit is in an intermediate position between the upright and inverted positions, the dispensing unit is configured to dispense the beverage out of the first end and into a cup or other vessel.

Abstract: In a method for operating a vaporizer of a domestic appliance, the vaporizer is filled at least to a predetermined filling level. The vaporizer can be emptied using an emptying arrangement. A time measurement is started, when a filling level falls below the predetermined filling level. A heating system of the vaporizer is switched on, when the filling level falls below the predetermined filling level. The time measurement is stopped, when the heating system has overheated, and a delivery output is calculated during emptying of the vaporizer, from a duration for emptying that is determined by the time measurement.

Abstract: Disclosed are cooking methods using inspection systems including: a distance sensor and a digital optical recognition device. The distance sensor detects the position of the food product placed in the cooking device and the digital optical recognition device captures a series of images for the purpose of food product recognition. Once the food product is recognized, the operator is provided with the correct cooking cycle/program for the position and type of food product placed in the cooking device. The methods also ensure that the food product has been properly cooked at the end of the cooking cycle/program. The methods ensure: (1) the food product is correctly recognized; (2) the cooking cycle/program is correctly selected; (3) the correct cooking cycle/program is followed to completion; and (4) the quality of the cooked food product meets expected standards.

Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a housing that defines a cavity. The housing has a housing rim defining an opening to the cavity. A heating or cooling element is disposed within the housing to heat or cool the cavity. A container has a generally hollow interior and a container rim. A lid is sized and shaped to at least partially cover the opening of the container when placed on the container. The lid has an exterior surface and an opposing interior surface. At least one latching mechanism or handle is operable to seal the contents of the appliance within the appliance.

Abstract: Systems, apparatus, and methods for heating food. In one embodiment, an oven includes a heating compartment sized for receiving food to be heated. A heater system of the oven heats gas for heating the food. A blower system of the oven blows heated gas into the heating compartment. A gas flow inlet and a gas flow exhaust are arranged for providing a flow of heated gas in the heating compartment. In one embodiment, a filter is used for filtering gas from the heating compartment.

Abstract: A cutting and scoring guide for directing cutting baked goods in a rectangular pan into rectangular pieces is provided, the cutting and scoring guide comprising: a top; an at least two opposing walls extending from the top and having a locking groove on an inner side for releasable mating with a lip of a rectangular baking sheet; a series of equally spaced long slots in the top, the series of long slots in parallel relation with the opposing walls, each long slot extending from a vicinity of a first end to a vicinity of an opposing second end of the top; and a plurality of short slots arranged in a series of lines to define a gap between each short slot in the top, the lines equalling no more than half the number of long slots and being normal to the long slots.

Abstract: The present invention provides a device for cooking food that has a cooking cavity defined by a front wall, a back wall that opposes the front wall, two opposing side walls, a ceiling, and a floor that opposes the ceiling; a substrate for supporting a food item, the substrate substantially enclosed by the cavity; a first plenum spanning between the two opposing side walls, said plenum comprising a first segment proximal to the back wall, a second segment proximal to the ceiling, and at least one third segment that joins the first segment and the second segment; a second plenum positioned proximal to but medially displaced from the first plenum; a flame heating element located between the first plenum and the second plenum; and at least one air movement device located proximal to a region in which the front wall and ceiling intersect.

Abstract: A food storage container is provided. The container includes a housing with a bottom, a first side wall, and a second side wall fixed to the first side wall that defines a food storage volume therewithin. The first side wall extends from a first end portion that includes a first peg that extends therefrom in a direction parallel with a plane through the first side wall. A third side wall is removably mounted to the first peg, wherein when mounted to the first peg, the third side wall establishes a barrier of the food storage volume different than barriers of the food storage volume provided by the bottom, the first side wall, and the second side wall. When the third side wall is removed from the first peg, the food storage volume may be accessed through a void left by the removal of the third side wall.

Abstract: A blender collar assembly including a plunger moveable between a lower position where a blade assembly is prevented from coupling with a motor, and an upper position where the blade assembly is able to couple with the motor. The plunger includes an arm extending upward and having a u-shaped feature, and a protrusion associated with the u-shaped feature. The assembly further includes a concentric interlock ring rotating responsive to rotation of a blender jar. The interlock ring including a first portion engaging the u-shaped feature preventing the plunger from moving upward, a second gap portion not engaging the u-shaped feature enabling the plunger to move upward and downward within the collar, and a key engaging a protrusion of the blender jar as the plunger moves upward preventing the interlock ring from rotating while the second portion is rotationally aligned with the u-shaped feature.

Abstract: A container having pressurized gas, the container includes an outlet, a liquid substance, a first gas dissolved in the liquid substance; and a noble gas. The liquid substance and the first gas are dispensed from the outlet when the container is oriented in a first position, and at least 90% of gas that is dispensed from the outlet when the container is oriented in a second position includes the noble gas.

Abstract: A mixing cup for mixing liquid beverages including an agitator having a hollow chamber therein for receiving a thermal material such that when a beverage is mixed in the mixing cup the agitator imparts a thermal change to the beverage making the beverage either hotter or cooler depending on the temperature of the agitator.

Abstract: A device comprising a partition with various functionalities and uses.

Abstract: A device comprising a partition with various functionalities and uses.

Abstract: A device comprising a partition with various functionalities and uses.

Abstract: The invention describes a cleaning system in the form of a mitt having cleaning pads attached by reversible fastening means so that pads may be electively and consecutively attached, removed, or replaced. Furthermore, the invention provides a means for introducing, retaining, dispensing, and distributing a fluid, such as water or a liquid cleaning product, so that a removable pad may be irrigated with a regulated dose of fluid prior to use. The invention also describes a cooperative enclosure that can store a plurality of cleaning pads. Features of the compatible enclosure serve to physically guide the body of the mitt into alignment with a replacement pad.

Abstract: A personal care article is disclosed having a first personal care composition in a first zone and a second personal care composition in a second zone such that the first and second zones are defined by one or more barriers.

Abstract: A clipping apparatus to keep a towel in place includes an interchangeable embellishment and a towel clip. The towel clip is configured with a first stem, a second stem, and a spring loaded connector as the first stem and the second stem are tensionally connected to each other through the spring loaded connector. A user is able to open the towel clip by compressing the first stem and the second stem together. Once the towel clip is opened and positioned with a bath towel, the first stem and the second stem are released so that the towel clip is able to firmly secure the bath towel against the user's body. The interchangeable embellishment is selectively attached to a front surface of the first stem to enhance the appearance of the towel clip.

Abstract: One embodiment of a cover to secure toilet bowl to prevent use, whether adult or child. The cover is secured inside the toilet bowl with a brace that fits under the inside rim of said toilet bowl.

Abstract: A window-cleaning robot provided with a closed wiper (13), comprising a rotating base (10) and an outer frame (20); said rotating base (10) being rotatably disposed on the outer frame (20); the bottom of said outer frame (20) being provided with a cleaning unit (21); said rotating base (10) being provided with a travel unit (11) and a suction cup (12); the bottom surface of the rotating base (10) also being provided with a wiper (13); said wiper (13) being disposed on the bottom surface such that the wiper (13) surrounds the rotating base (10) in a closed shape; the travel unit (11) and/or the suction cup (12) being enclosed within said closed shape. The wiper (13) is entirely closed such that regardless of where the robot travels, 360° wiping can be accomplished, effectively preventing the travel unit (11) and the suction cup (12) from becoming wet, resulting in more effective wiping and effectively preventing slippage.