Abstract: An upper including: a cord placed along the longitudinal direction, the cord running through the through holes of the reinforcement members of the medial side portion and/or the lateral side portion; exposed areas in which portions of the cord are placed exposed; and a shoelace engaging with the cord in the exposed areas in a transverse direction of the foot so as to bring the medial side portion and the lateral side portion closer to each other, wherein each of the upper end portions of at least one reinforcement member is attached to the flexible member in one of a fore portion and a rear portion, and is set to be un-attached to the flexible member in the other one of the fore portion and the rear portion.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”) infused mesh material that is molded to form at least a portion of a shoe. The TPU infused mesh may be formed as an upper, a portion of sole or other components of a shoe. The TPU infused mesh is formed, in an exemplary embodiment, through the application of liquid TPU to a surface of a spacer mesh. The liquid TPU infused spacer mesh is then cured, cut to a pattern, and heat molded to form a desired portion of the shoe. The heat molded TPU mesh is coupled to other portions of the shoe (e.g., sole) to form an article footwear in an exemplary embodiment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a part of a shoe, in particular a shoe upper, a shoe with such a part and a method for the manufacture. According to an aspect of the invention a part of a shoe is provided which comprises an area comprising a contiguous piece of natural and/or synthetic leather, wherein the area comprises a first sub-area and a second sub-area, each sub-area having a size of more than 3 cm2, in particular more than 4 cm2, wherein the leather has a reduced thickness in the second sub-area compared to the first sub-area, and wherein the reduced thickness is obtained by milling off a first surface layer of the leather in the entire second sub-area.

Abstract: A lacing system for tightening an article includes a first guide that is coupled with the article and positioned within a first zone of the article and a second guide that is coupled with the article and positioned within a second zone of the article with at least a portion of the second zone being different than the first zone. A first tension member is guided by the first guide within the first zone and a second tension member is guided by the second guide within the second zone. Tensioning of the first tension member or second tension member causes tightening of the respective zone of the article. A tensioning mechanism is also coupled with the article and with the first and second tension members. The tensioning mechanism is configured to tension the first and second tension members to tighten the first and second zones of the article.

Abstract: Apparatuses, kits and methods for customizing one or more surfaces of an item of footwear (e.g., a shoe, a boot, etc.) are disclosed. A surface of an item of footwear may be customized by applying a decorative film thereto. The application of a decorative film may include the use of a sizing element, which may be specifically sized to a surface of a shoe that an individual wants to decoratively enhance. The sizing element may then be used to tailor a size of the decorative film, which may then be applied to the surface of the item of footwear.

Abstract: An assembly is disclosed, the assembly for providing release structure to a lanyard or strap adapted to be worn on the body, such as a neck strap. The release structure consists of a snap button assembly configured such that the release pull generated by tension in the strap is directed along an axis perpendicular to the closure and rotation plane of the male and female portion of the snap button assemblies. With structure to configure a release pull in such an axis, a safety feature is provided to the wearer such that tension in the strap, when it reaches a sufficient force to overcome the closure forces of the snap button assembly, will release the closed snap button and allow the strap to fall away from the body. Also, as in the case of a firefighter wearing an SCBA fire mask, it prevents the firefighter from being entangled or tethered if the strap were to get accidentally hooked or caught on something.

Abstract: A molded surface fastener has engagement regions in which engaging elements are disposed in an erect manner and space regions with no engaging elements, the engagement regions and the space regions alternating in the longitudinal direction. Each space region has a pair of left and right vertical wall portions that are disposed on a substrate portion in an erect manner and a convex rib portion that protrudes from the center of the substrate portion in the width direction, and the convex rib portion is integrally connected to a main lateral wall portion disposed in the width direction of the engagement region. By implementing a simple cutting process, this molded surface fastener can be easily adapted to usages in which the fastener has to be in a curved shape bending in the width direction.

Abstract: A two-piece tarp fastener device for fastening tarps together includes a male coupler and a female coupler. The male coupler comprises includes a rod that has a first end and a second end. A knob is coupled to the first end of the rod. A pin is positioned in the rod proximate to the second end. The pin has opposing ends that extend from an outer surface of the rod. The female coupler comprises includes a tube that has a first terminus and a second terminus. The tube is hollow and complimentary to the rod. A button is coupled to the first terminus of the tube. A pair of slots, complimentary to the pin, is opposingly positioned in a wall of the tube. The slots extend from the second terminus to proximate to the first terminus. Each slot has a channel that extends transversely from a respective bottom of the slot.

Abstract: Disclosed within is a device that allows a user to transport and store sunscreen and lip balm on their person. The device disclosed within is intended to be worn as a necklace or bracelet. The device includes two internal storage locations. The first storage location contains sunscreen, the second storage location contains a lip balm. Alternatively, the device may be constructed as a single larger reservoir that is separated into individual storage locations using one or more dividing walls. For example, a large reservoir may be divided into a first reservoir, or primary reservoir, for the storage of sunscreen. On the opposite side of the dividing wall is a smaller storage location to store lip balm.

Abstract: The disclosed technology relates to a safety device for a jewelry item. The safety device includes a length of line having a first end and a second end; a first connector, the first connector being a first crimp having a first loop and a first set of crimping jaws, the first loop being fixedly attached to the first end of the length of line; a second connector, the second connector being a second crimp having a second loop and a second set of crimping jaws, the second loop being fixedly attached to the second end of the length of chain; a first elastic band being fixedly attached to the first set of crimping jaws thereby forming a first elastic loop; and a second elastic band, the second elastic band being fixedly attached to the second set of crimping jaws thereby forming a second elastic loop.

Abstract: A method for changing the appearance of a tooth by applying a composition to it. The composition has a cosmetic enhancer and also has a substantially transparent binder which binds the cosmetic enhancer to the tooth.

Abstract: An article of dynamic jewellery includes a protective housing having an interior and a viewing window through which the interior is visible. A pendulum is suspended within the interior of the protective housing. The lower end of the pendulum supports an ornament which gives the pendulum sufficient weight that the pendulum swings freely in response to movements of a wearer's body.

Abstract: A charm and clothing attachment device includes a main body having a hook portion, a moveable arm and a central aperture. An elongated shaft having a sharp tip along a distal end extends outward from the main body. A receiver having a cavity is removably connected to the elongated shaft. One or more charms, each having a loop portion are suspended from the hook portion of the main body.

Abstract: Article(s) are disclosed that are formed, at least in part, by a cemented carbide composition having about 8 to about 35 wt. % Co and about 0.8 to about 3.5 wt. % Cr.

Abstract: An adjustable wallet is provided. The wallet has a first plate and a second plate spaced from and overlying the first plate. A cord couples the distal ends of the plate together a predetermined, adjustable distance apart. A first strap selectively couples the proximal ends of the plates together to secure the wallet in a closed position. A second strap having an adjustable body length secures the personal items of a user to the second plate.

Abstract: An article of manufacture, comprising an inflatable cooler having at least a portion with a drop-stitch construction is provided. The inflatable cooler may comprise a first inflatable drop-stitch chamber defining a bottom wall, a second inflatable drop-stitch chamber defining a plurality of side walls, and a third inflatable drop-stitch chamber defining a lid of the inflatable cooler.

Abstract: A luggage apparatus is described. The luggage apparatus comprises a body portion and a stabilising mechanism, the stabilising mechanism being movable with respect to the body portion from a stowed position to a deployed position. With the stabilising mechanism in the deployed position, the body portion can be tilted from an upright position to an inclined position, in the inclined position the stabilising mechanism at least partially supporting the body portion.

Abstract: A convertible lanyard case tor a personal electronics item includes a top end, a bottom end, a front side, and a back side. The front side is configured for viewing and accessing the personal electronics item. The back side includes a tab assembly adjacent the bottom end, having a movable tab with a hole for engaging a lanyard and clip. The tab slides between a first, position wherein the hole is obscured and a second position wherein the tab extends from the case for attaching a lanyard to the hole. To preserve the tab in position stops with a biasing mechanisms seat in notches on the frame.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a cleaning fabric. A wallet card assembly supports the cleaning fabric. The wallet card assembly is sized in such a way that the wallet card assembly is movable into and out from a card slot defined by a card compartment provided by a wallet while the wallet card assembly supports the cleaning fabric.

Abstract: A protective case for an electronic device may have two layers: an inner cushion cover that surrounds a portion of the electronic device, and an outer rigid shell that surround part of the cushion cover. The outer shell has side walls that engage and hold the cushion cover on the electronic device. The cushion cover has reduced thickness portions so that the side walls are embedded in the cushion cover and provide a protective case having a substantially smooth exterior. The cushion cover is capable of absorbing shocks from impacts on the rigid outer shell. Coring on the inner portion of the cushion cover provides additional softness and the ability of the cushion cover to absorb shocks while using a higher density material, which is able to conform to the electronic device.

Abstract: The disclosure provides a travel bag comprising a main body extending from a first end to a second end, and configured to assume an extended configuration for transportation of one or more elongated articles, and a compressed configuration for use other than transportation of the elongated article, wherein a distance between the first end and the second end is larger in the extended configuration than in the compressed configuration. The disclosure further relates to methods of storing garments and methods of displaying garments.

Abstract: A method for permanently changing the shape of keratinic fibres and a kit-of-parts comprising the agents (a), (b) and (c) packaged separately. The method comprises applying a permanent waving agent (a) to the keratinic fibres, leaving agent (a) to take effect for a period of from 2-60 minutes, rinsing out the agent (a) from the keratinic fibres, applying agent (b) to the keratinic fibres, leaving agent (b) to take effect for a period of from 2-60 minutes, rinsing out agent (b) from the keratinic fibres, applying agent (c) to the keratinic fibres, leaving agent (c) to take effect for a period of from 2-60 minutes, and rinsing out agent (c) from the keratinic fibres. The permanent waving agent (a) includes one or more keratin-reducing compounds, the cosmetic agent (b) includes one or more aliphatic C2-C8 dicarboxylic acids and/or physiologically acceptable salts thereof, and the fixing agent (c) includes hydrogen peroxide.

Abstract: The invention features an apparatus and method of attaching false hair. The hand-held device allows false hair to be secured onto the user's weft of hair and braid. Clips are dispensed from a tray within the apparatus to a crimping assembly by way of operation of a number of geared components of the apparatus. Aspects of embodiments of the invention also contemplate use of levered components in operation of the apparatus.

Abstract: A brush is provided herein, the brush having heating elements dispersed on and protruding from its face and spacers arranged to maintain a specified distance between protruding ends of the heating elements and a scalp of a head that is being brushed. The spacers are dispersed on the brush's face at a specified density that assures maintaining the specified distance with respect to a resilience of the spacers.

Abstract: A comb and a thermal protective glove are provided herein. In one embodiment, the comb includes: (1) a base having a top side and a bottom side, (2) a longitudinal row of teeth on the top side of the base and (3) an attacher having a coupling end connected to the bottom side of the base.

Abstract: Containers are described herein for the transportation and distribution of replaceable consumer products, e.g. interchangeable shaving assemblies. The containers described herein include a mechanism to securely hold the container in predetermined open and closed positions. The interior of the container may provided features which serve to hold and protect the shaving assemblies when not in use, e.g., during transport or storage.

Abstract: A hands-free grooming device configured to align with a center point on a user's chin and secure to the user's face via tension created between the user's face when a plurality of tabs are secured to form head and neck straps. Once secured, the grooming device enables the user to perform grooming operations without holding the grooming device in place, resulting in a consistently shaped beard with defined edges.

Abstract: An acrylic nail removal system includes a glove including a plurality of finger sleeves. The glove includes a palm portion and each of the finger sleeves has a tip portion positioned distal to the palm portion. A quantity of acetone is positioned within each of the tip portions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a compact container incorporating a rod-shaped cosmetic container and, more particularly, to a compact container incorporating a rod-shaped cosmetic container, the compact container having a rod-shaped cosmetic container incorporated in a hinge portion thereof to be stored/used such that the compact container and the rod-shaped cosmetic container can be carried and used together.

Abstract: A method, system and device for determining the properties of hair and skin. The method, system and device facilities the selection and application of an application of a product to the hair or skin of an individual to achieve a desired target result. The hair or skin properties measured may include the hair composition and chemical components of the hair, as well as substances that may coat the hair and other substances on, absorbed or absorbed on or into the hair. A hyper-spectral imaging component is employed to obtain information from the hair or skin and that information is used to provide a produce used to produce the target result.

Abstract: Disclosed is a dual access-point system for holding an item. The dual access-point system allows a traveler to easily store and retrieve one or more items through two sides of a backpack (e.g., via the top and the side). Additionally, the backpack can be quickly converted into a suitcase; for example, by hiding the straps in the pockets on the backpack. The dual access-point system may be used as a standalone system. Alternatively, the dual access-point system may be integrated with a backpack. The disclosed dual access-point system saves time and money for its users, making their lives easier while making them look good and professional.

Abstract: An exoskeleton includes strapping for coupling the exoskeleton to a wearer. The exoskeleton also includes a hip structure, a thigh link rotatably connected to the hip structure and a shank link rotatably connected to the thigh link. The weight of the exoskeleton is transferred to a surface on which the exoskeleton is standing through the hip structure, the thigh link and the shank link. An arm brace supports an arm of the wearer, and a telescopic link is rotatably connected to the arm brace. An energy storage device delivers power to a tool through a conduit, and a conduit-energy storage device coupling connects the conduit to the energy storage device.

Abstract: A flexible folding sling includes a flexible elongate preform strap having first and second ends, each of the first and second ends folded inward toward a strap center to form respective first and second loops. The first and second ends are fastened to the strap center with each of the first and second loops having a half-twist such that each of the first and second loops is a tear-shaped Mobius loop. The flexible folding sling assists a user in carrying bag(s) having handles, or other objects that include handles or like structure. When used to carry bags, the sling can be configured as a hand-sling, a shoulder-sling or a back-sling. When used as a hand-sling, the sling engages the user's wrist in a secure and comfortable manner. This prevents load transmission through the easily tired hand muscles and ligaments, extending the amount of time the user can carry a load. This also allows the user to maintain use of her hand and fingers while the sling is used.

Abstract: A ground engageable accessory support is provided which includes a sliding hammer employable for forcing a pointed end of a support column into the ground. A pair of sleeves depending into a support body engaged to the support column are adapted concurrently hold multiple poles which engage accessories such as an umbrella or fishing pole.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a frame for a portable electronic media device so as to provide the stability to the portable electronic media device while capturing an image. The frame comprises three rods wherein the third rod is adjustable to accommodate the different sizes of portable electronic media device. At least two of three rods comprises a screw hole and a magnet wherein the screw hole is enabled to receive the screw of the external device such as tripod or stand and magnet is enabled to hold the external device firmly. The present invention provides unique proposition while capturing the image from the portable electronic media device.

Abstract: A disposable sheet dispensing system may include a removable refillable cartridge having a disposable sheet. The disposable sheet dispensing system may include an elongate tubular body having a first end and a second end configured to receive the removable refillable cartridge. The disposable sheet dispensing system may include a fastener proximate the first end of the elongate tubular body. The disposable sheet dispensing system may include a longitudinal slit formed in the elongate tubular body between the first end and the second end configured to dispense disposable sheets from the removable refillable cartridge. The first end and the second end of the elongate tubular body may be configured to be fastened together. The fastener may be configured to selectively adjust the length of the elongate tubular body when the first and second ends are fastened together such that the holder may be adjustably worn by a user.

Abstract: A tethering attachment assembly is provided for attachment to an apparatus to facilitate connection of a lanyard to the apparatus. The tethering attachment assembly includes a pair of posts and a coil element including metallic material that substantially resiliently retains its state with application of force up to a limit, and is permanently plastically deformable upon application of force exceeding the limit. The coil element has two ends attached to the elongated posts and adapted to form a substantially U-shaped hook when the elongated posts are attached to the apparatus. A sleeve is tubularly disposed around the coil element to substantially cover the coil element.

Abstract: A tethering method includes providing a tether clamp with a mouth portion and a throat portion, where the tether clamp is operable between an open position and a closed position; providing a wearable garment made of pliant material; providing a clamping body sized to pass through the mouth portion and remain disposed in the throat portion of the tether clamp when in the closed position; folding the pliant material of the wearable garment over the clamping body; installing the clamping body with folded material into the throat portion of the tether clamp with the clamping body extending axially through the throat portion and the folded material extending out through the mouth portion; and closing the tether clamp to capture the clamping body with folded material in the throat portion and engage at least two plies of the pliant material in the mouth portion.

Abstract: A towel arrest device includes a body and two lips opposed from each other and formed integrally to the body. The lips each have a top, a bottom, and an inflection point therebetween. The lips are parallel, spaced apart, and define a slit between the inflection point and the bottom. The lips further converge toward the slit between the tops and the inflection points. The body biases the lips toward each other in response to expansion of the slit. When an item, such as a towel, is thus introduced into the slit, the slit expands to accommodate the towel but the lips exert an inward bias to cinch the towel and secure it in the device.

Abstract: A device preventing an object falling out of an open-top pocket is a thin V-shaped piece of wire and has a pair of hooks and retaining arms on the top.

Abstract: The method for manufacturing bristle arrangements for brushes, and the device (1), the carrier pad (17), and the brush (60) which is populated with a carrier pad (17) of this type, enable simplification of the manufacture of bristle arrangements for brushes, inter alia in that the bristle bundles (5) which by means of a gas or air stream are conveyed through the conveying device (6) to the bundle-retaining plate (9) when being conveyed through the conveying device (6) are electrostatically discharged, such that they may be more easily conveyed through the conveying device (6), and in that they reduce the complexity in the fastening of bristle bundles (5) in a carrier pad (17) without anchoring, since the carrier pad (17) on the rear side has material protrusions (54) which are fused and thereafter interference-fitted in a bundle-fastening plane, in order for bristle bundles (5, 5a) which have been incorporated into the perforations (24) of the carrier pad (17) to be connected in a form-fitting and/or force-fi

Abstract: A paint brush includes a heel section, a quick disconnect member, and a pivotal section. The quick disconnect member is positioned at one end of the heel section and connects multiple brush cartridges, thereby enabling a user to switch to a different color during a painting operation. The pivotal section is positioned at an opposing end of the heel section, the pivotal section is configured to be mounted on a distal end of an elongate member, where the paint brush is configured to be elevated to a contact surface at a predetermined height, and pivoted at a predefined angle along the pivotal section to paint the contact surface. The quick disconnect member is a snap fit receiver to receive the brush cartridges. The snap fit receiver comprises a push button positioned on the heel section configured to be actuated by a user to connect and disconnect the brush cartridges.

Abstract: A lice brush includes a body that supports a plurality of bristles. The body also includes a handle. One or more of the plurality of bristles is configured for use in brushing a user's hair for lice. In particular, one or more of the bristles includes recesses, grooves, indentations, notches, pits or similar inwardly-extending spaces configured to facilitate removal of lice as the bristles pass through the hair. Multiple bristles can be provided in a bristle unit and multiple bristle units can be employed in a bristle assembly of the brush.

Abstract: A wear indicator is provided, which is suitable for use with a workpiece, such as a replaceable brush head. In use, the wear indicator can provide an indication to the user recommending that the workpiece be replaced.

Abstract: Apparatuses and methods of cleaning and drying applicator tools, such as brushes, cosmetic applicators, or cosmetic tools, are disclosed. An applicator tool cleaning apparatus according to various embodiments includes an applicator tool holder configured to hold multiple applicators of various sizes with the applicator heads facing down. The applicator tool cleaning apparatus further comprises a cleaning chamber that can dispense liquid to saturate the applicator heads and contact the applicator heads with a textured surface to dislodge collected materials on the applicator heads. Additionally, the applicator tool cleaning apparatus may comprise a drying chamber where drying mechanisms blow air or dissipate heat at the applicator heads until dried. The applicator tool holder may be moved vertically between the cleaning chamber and the drying chamber via a motor and drive mechanism of the applicator tool cleaning apparatus.

Abstract: An extendable table movable between an extended position and a retracted position is disclosed. The table includes a generally rectangular table frame, outer sliding tracks secured to the rails of the table frame, first and second cross members also secured to the rails of the table frame, as well as four table legs. The table includes first and second movable table tops, each having a molded plastic table top surface, and inner sliding tracks which are slidingly received within the outer sliding tracks so that the first and second table tops are movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The table includes a leaf, having a molded plastic table top surface and first and second retainers disposed on an underside of the table leaf.

Abstract: A reinforcing arrangement for reinforcing a joint portion between two support units of a foldable furniture object, comprising a first mounting unit which comprises a first mounting body and a first guiding member outwardly protruded from the first mounting body mounting on the first support unit; a second mounting unit which comprises a second mounting body and a second guiding member or a second guiding groove complimentary to and moveably engaging with the first mounting unit to define a maximum extending angle of movement, thereby the first and second support unit are guided to lock into position at an unfolded position at the maximum extending angle and to unlock at a folded position; and a connecting unit pivotally connecting the first support unit and the second support unit between which the two mounting units are positioned, thereby the joint portion is reinforced.

Abstract: An expandable storage structure (10) comprises at least one extendable wall. The extendable wall comprises at least three slidably engaged panels (30, 32, 36), and at least a first and second panel (30, 32) are co-planar. At least one of the panels (30, 32, 36) is hollow and receives at least a part of at least one of the other panels (30, 32, 36). The first and second panels (30, 32) are movable relative to each other panel (30, 32, 36) in order to adjust a dimension of the wall. A linkage mechanism (34) connects the first and second panels (30, 32) and is configured to allow relative movement between the panels (30, 32, 36) while maintaining the first and second panels (30, 32) in the same plane as each other.

Abstract: There is provided a storage cabinet that includes a rotating mechanism configured to rotate the storage units within the storage cabinet. The rotating mechanism comprises a first set of rotational gears having a first direction of rotation and a first central axis perpendicular to the first direction of rotation, a second set of rotational gears having a second direction of rotation and a second central axis perpendicular to the second direction of rotation. The mechanism further comprises a chain adapted to be operatively connected to the first and second set of rotational gears, and a rail adapted to be mounted on the internal walls of the storage cabinet, wherein the cabinet rail and the chain are configured to receive the at least one storage unit so as to rotate said at least one storage unit clockwise or counterclockwise movement within the storage cabinet along the first and second rotation directions.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a fastening part for a storage system. The system comprises a storage device, such as a basket, a set of hooks, a shoe rack, a perforated panel or the like, which can be attached, by means of the fastening part, to a carrier element with a number of slots. The fastening part comprises a base portion, with at least one opening, an inner part, resting on the base portion at the carrier element's side and providing at least one hook to be inserted into the carrier element, and another part resting on the base portion at an outer side, and comprising a connector that engages with the inner part through said at least one opening, such that the base portion is sandwiched between the inner part and the outer part.