Abstract: A method for manufacturing an edible dog chew includes the steps of: extruding a first edible mixture through a mold having an opening in a first direction to form a lengthened chew interior material; cutting the lengthened chew interior material into defined lengths to form at least one cut chew interior material; drying the cut chew interior material to form a chew interior; and coating the chew interior with a second edible mixture different from the first edible mixture. Further methods and pet chews are also provided.

Abstract: A beverage is provided that is given a colorless and transparent fruit savor that can be felt as the return aroma of fruit or a natural fruity taste, even when the beverage drunk directly from a container having a small opening like a PET bottle. The beverage satisfies “X?0.01” and “Y?3.1X+0.85” when the valencene concentration is set to X (mg/L), and the linalool concentration is set to Y (mg/L) in a colorless and transparent beverage.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is preservation system for nutritional substances. The preservation system obtains information about the nutritional substance to be preserved, senses and measures the external environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the internal environment to the preservation system, senses and measures the state of the nutritional substance, and stores such information throughout the period of preservation. Using this accumulated information, the preservation system can measure, or estimate, changes in nutritional content (usually degradation) during the period of preservation. Additionally, the preservation system can use this information to dynamically modify the preservation system to minimize detrimental changes to the nutritional content of the nutritional substance, and in some cases actually improve the nutritional substance attributes.

Abstract: A sterilization tray is composed of a tray body and a pressing member capable of moving in a direction perpendicular to the tray body. The bottom of the tray body is formed from a perforated plate through which high pressure steam or hot water passes at the time of moist heat sterilization, and a frame of the pressing member is formed from a porous member through which steam or hot water passes. When plural sterilization trays are stacked in a state in which a resin container (multi-chamber container) 1 is placed on the sterilization tray, the peripheral edge of an empty chamber part of the resin container is pressed by the pressing member of the sterilization tray stacked above, and deformation of the resin container during the moist heat sterilization can be prevented.

Abstract: Provided is a method for producing frozen noodles comprising: a step of attaching a composition comprising xanthan gum and having a viscosity of from 30 to 2000 mPa·s at 60° C. to cooked noodles obtained by cooking fresh noodles produced by a rolling noodle-manufacturing method; and a step of freezing the noodles to which the composition has attached.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for preparing a shelf-stable liquid enteral composition for providing nutrition, either as a supplement, or as a complete nutrition, comprising a high amount of micellar casein, comprising dissolving a dry blend of micellar casein and digestible carbohydrate.

Abstract: A system includes a first topping module with a first hopper holding a first topping sample of a first topping type and a first blade to cut a first topping serving. A second topping module includes a second hopper holding a second topping sample of a second topping type and a second blade to cut a second topping serving. A conveyor moves a topping vehicle between a first position below the first hopper and a second position below the second hopper. An order specifies the first topping type and the second topping type. An actuator system moves the first blade to cut the first topping serving according to the order to dispense the first topping serving onto the topping vehicle. The actuator system moves the second blade to cut the second topping serving according to the order to dispense the first topping serving onto the topping vehicle.

Abstract: Variable-scale, modular, easily manufacturable, energy efficient, reliable, and computer operated Insect Production Superstructure Systems (IPSS) may be used to produce insects for human and animal consumption, and for the extraction and use of lipids for applications involving medicine, nanotechnology, consumer products, and chemical production with minimal water, feedstock, and environmental impact. An IPSS may comprise modules including feedstock mixing, enhanced feedstock splitting, insect feeding, insect breeding, insect collection, insect grinding, pathogen removal, multifunctional flour mixing, liquid mixing, shaping, cooking, flavoring, biocatalyst mixing, exoskeleton separation, liquid separation, and lipid extraction. An IPSS may be configured to be constructed out of a plurality of containerized modules.

Abstract: The invention provides a process for preparing a tobacco composition suitable for use as a smokeless tobacco composition, the process including: providing a slurry comprising water and a tobacco material, the slurry comprising at least about 75% by weight water, based on the total weight of the slurry; heating the slurry to a temperature of at least about 60° C. for a time sufficient to pasteurize the tobacco material; adding an amount of a base to the slurry sufficient to raise the pH of the slurry to at least about 8.5, thereby forming a pH-adjusted slurry; and continuing to heat the pH-adjusted slurry to a temperature of at least about 60° C. for a time sufficient for the pH of the slurry to drop at least about 0.5 pH unit following the adding step.

Abstract: An electronic cigarette vaporizer system including a cartridge designed to provide a liquid or other substance for the electronic vaporizer system, the cartridge including a chip that stores data related to the batch number of the substance stored in the cartridge, and the cartridge being adapted to be inserted into or form an integral part of the electronic vaporizer system. The electronic vaporizer system reads the data from the chip and compares that data with stored data and, depending on the result of that comparison, either prevents or permits use of that substance.

Abstract: A filter for a smoking article comprises a mouth end filter segment and a rod end filter segment. The rod end filter segment has a passage extending longitudinally therethrough. The passage has a diameter of about 1.0 mm or greater. In one embodiment, the rod end filter segment is comprised of an infinite pressure drop material. In another embodiment, the rod end filter segment is comprised of a low pressure drop material having a hollow tubular element disposed within to define the passage with an inner diameter greater than about 1.55 mm. Air dilution means are disposed in one of said filter segments to admit ventilating air into the filter.

Abstract: A cartridge is selectively usable with a personal vaporizer. The cartridge may include a chamber for holding a vaporizing medium such as a liquid solution. The cartridge may also include an atomizer that can be manufactured as a unit with the chamber. The cartridge can be attached to a vaporizer structure such as a battery assembly. A cartridge cover fits over and encloses the cartridge therewithin. The cartridge cover can employ decorative aspects that match or complement decorative aspects of the battery assembly.

Abstract: An electronic cigarette identification device, electronic cigarette case, and a method for identifying an electronic cigarette, the device comprises an electronic cigarette and an electronic cigarette case, the electronic cigarette comprises an identification information generation module, and the electronic cigarette case comprises a power supply battery, a microprocessor, and an identification information receiving module; the microprocessor is connected to the power supply battery and the identification information receiving module; the identification information generation module outputs an identification information to the identification information receiving module by means of wired or wireless transmission; the identification information receiving module receives, converts and sends the identification information to the microprocessor; the microprocessor identifies whether the electronic cigarette case and the electronic cigarette match.

Abstract: A capsule (26) for an electronic vapor inhaler comprises a shell (28) containing a flavor-release medium (40) and one or more induction heatable elements (42) disposed inside the shell (28) and arranged to heat the flavor-release medium (40) to produce a vapor for inhalation by a user. At least part of the shell (28) is formed of an air permeable material.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an aerosol delivery device and a related method. The aerosol delivery device includes a heating chamber having an aerosol precursor composition disposed therein. A microwave radiation emitting device is operably engaged with the heating chamber and is configured to heat the aerosol precursor composition therein with the microwave radiation to form an aerosol from the aerosol precursor composition. An outlet port is formed in a housing of the aerosol delivery device and is in fluid communication with the heating chamber. The heating chamber is responsive to a suction applied to the outlet port for the aerosol to be drawn through the outlet port outwardly from the housing.

Abstract: An electronic atomization apparatus with a switch-closed atomizer and an electronic simulation cigarette are disclosed. The electronic atomization apparatus comprises a battery rod (10), an atomizer (20) arranged on a top end of the battery rod (10), an atomization liquid storage device (30), a sleeve (40) and a suction nozzle upper cover (50). When in use, the atomization liquid storage device is placed in the sleeve, and the suction nozzle upper cover is sleeved on the sleeve. The atomization liquid storage device is pushed to move down by rotating the suction nozzle upper cover, while the atomizer-abuts against a sealing rubber (35), so that the atomization liquid storage device and the sealing rubber (35) slide relative to each other in opposite directions, so as to open a liquid outlet (32) of the atomization liquid storage device to communicate with a liquid inlet (22) of the atomizer.

Abstract: An exemplary spraying atomizing device includes a housing, a liquid tank, a spraying device, a heating element, and a power supply. The housing defines an atomizing chamber. The liquid tank is configured for storing tobacco liquid. The spraying device is configured for spraying the tobacco liquid into the atomizing chamber in a form of liquid particles. The heating element is arranged in the atomizing chamber, and has a heating surface. The heating surface is configured for supporting and heating the liquid particles to form aerosol. The power supply is arranged in the housing, and is configured for feeding the heating element power.

Abstract: An atomizer compartment structure includes an oil storage compartment and a heating core support. The upper end of the oil storage tank is a closed end, and the lower end of the oil storage tank has a tubular oil conduit and an air conduit, and the external wall of the oil storage compartment has a latch buckle disposed at an end near the air conduit. The upper end of the heating core support has an oil filling hole corresponsive to the oil conduit and an air guide hole corresponsive to the air conduit, and the external wall of the heating core support has an engaging slot for engaging the latch buckle. When the oil storage compartment and the heating core support are latched tightly, the oil conduit extends into the oil filling hole and the air conduit extends into the air guide hole.

Abstract: A smoking article may include a cigarette incorporated within an electrically powered aerosol generating device that acts as a holder for that cigarette. The smoking article possesses at least one form of tobacco. The smoking article also possesses a mouth-end piece that is used by the smoker to inhale components of tobacco that are generated by the action of heat upon components of the cigarette. A representative smoking article possesses an outer housing incorporating a source of electrical power (e.g., a battery), a sensing mechanism for powering the device at least during periods of draw, and a heating device (e.g., at least one electrical resistance heating element) for forming a thermally generated aerosol that incorporates components of tobacco. During use, the cigarette is positioned within the device, and after use, the used cigarette is removed from the device and replaced with another cigarette.

Abstract: Toe coverlets are provided including a flexible material configured to be positioned over the toes of a foot such that spacing between the toes of the foot is visible and does not extend onto a ball of the foot. Related systems are also provided.

Abstract: A strap assembly includes a chest strap and shoulder straps. Similarly configured left and right cups are provided. The strap assembly is attached to the cups whereby the strap assembly adheres the cups to a wearer. Each cup has curved upper, lower, interior and exterior edges. Each cup has inside and outside surfaces. A patch is operatively associated with each cup. Each patch has a linear upper edge and curved lower, interior and exterior edges. Each patch has inside and outside surfaces. Stitching couples the lower, interior and exterior edges of each patch to the lower, interior and exterior edges of an associated cup. A linear opening is formed along the upper edge of each patch. Piping covers the upper edge of each patch. The piping is adapted to allow the patch to move away from and back toward the cup between open and closed orientations.

Abstract: A strap assembly includes a chest strap and shoulder straps. Similarly configured left and right cups are provided. The strap assembly is attached to the cups whereby the strap assembly adheres the cups to a wearer. Each cup has curved upper, lower, interior and exterior edges. Each cup has inside and outside surfaces. A patch is operatively associated with each cup. Each patch has a linear upper edge and curved lower, interior and exterior edges. Each patch has inside and outside surfaces. Stitching couples the lower, interior and exterior edges of each patch to the lower, interior and exterior edges of an associated cup. A linear opening is formed along the upper edge of each patch. Piping covers the upper edge of each patch. The piping is adapted to allow the patch to move away from and back toward the cup between open and closed orientations.

Abstract: A sound responsive garment for synchronized output of sound, light and vibration includes a shell. A power module is coupled to the shell. A microprocessor is coupled to the shell and operationally coupled to the power module. A plurality of speakers, a plurality of lights and a plurality of vibrators are coupled to shell and operationally coupled to the microprocessor. An input is operationally coupled to the microprocessor. The input is configured to couple to an audio source such that an audio signal from the audio source is relayed to the microprocessor. The speakers are positioned to emit the audio signal. The lights and the vibrators are motivated by the microprocessor to emit light and vibrations, respectively, timed to the audio signal.

Abstract: A system for adjusting the fit of an article of clothing and to provide other benefits including, but not limited to, reduction and/or elimination of wind drag, reduction of loose clothing that can get caught or cause obstruction, regulation of blood circulation, movement, and swelling of the wearer of the article of clothing, adjustment of ventilation, general enhancement of the clothing for a desired activity, and general comfort and/or desired appearance. The system comprises one or more closures at various locations of the article of clothing to enable the wearer to adjust the fit of the clothing when desired.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a jacket/coat designed to provide an enhanced range of motion. This is accomplished by having a layered construction comprising different fabric/textile materials where the enhanced range of motion is desired. The jacket/coat in accordance with the present invention particularly provides an enhanced range of motion for a wearer around the shoulders and arms. This enhanced range of motion may be especially beneficial when the wearer is engaged in a physically demanding activity or any activity benefitting from a wide range of movement by the wearer's arms and shoulders.

Abstract: According to the various features, characteristics and embodiments of the present invention which will become apparent as the description thereof proceeds, the present invention provides reusable grip enhancing tubular members for the arm area, in particular sports sleeves for the arm and forearm, and reusable grip enhancing tubular members for the hand, in particular sports finger cots for the hand, and the uses thereof, and methods thereof, intended to increase the performance in arm and/or hand task activities.

Abstract: A method includes embedding clothing with at least one sensor and at least one control unit; a power unit powering on the at least one sensor and the at least one control unit; the at least one sensor monitoring a sensed condition; the at least one control unit conducting a heat prediction based on the sensed condition; and the at least one control unit controlling threads within the clothing based on the heat prediction to actively adjust properties of the clothing.

Abstract: A weather-resistant facial protection mask to be worn by a user in extreme outdoor environments is disclosed. The mask includes a facial covering constructed of a waterproof breathable fabric configured to prevent the passage of water while allowing water vapor to pass through. The mask also includes a port extending completely through the facial covering and positioned to align with the user's mouth. A screen mesh is attached to the facial covering and extends over the port, the screen mesh is non-absorbent. The mask also includes a head securing portion attached to the facial covering, the head securing portion constructed from a second material different from the first material of the facial covering, the second material is more stretchable than the first material.

Abstract: A medical gown (10) includes a front side (11) joined to a back side (12) along a top seam (23) having a front side (24) and a back side (25) which are releasably joined together. The top seam front side includes an elongated strip of very small hook type fasteners (28). The top seam back side includes a pair of outer high strength loop type fasteners (31) (high bonding strength) spaced apart to allow the exposure of the exterior surface (20) of the gown back side which forms small loops that are considered an area of low strength loop type fasteners (34) (low bonding strength). The mating of the high strength loop type fasteners with the hook type fasteners provides a higher degree of separation resistance compared to that between the low strength loop type fasteners and the hook type fasteners.

Abstract: A sensitivity enhancement glove having at least one sleeve with a unique aperture to enhance performance by capitalizing on neuroanatomy and create hyper sensitivity, thereby enhancing proprioception.

Abstract: A glove includes a main body that defines an interior space that is operable to receive at least a portion of the hand of the wearer. The main body includes an opening that divides the main body into a first portion and a second portion. The glove also includes a hook-and-loop fastener that includes a hook member and a loop member. The hook member and the loop member are operable to removably attach to each other. One of the hook member and the loop member is operably supported on the first portion of the main body, and the other of the hook member and the loop member is operably supported on the second portion of the main body. At least one of the hook member and the loop member is divided into a plurality of respective sections that are separated at a distance from each other.

Abstract: Methods and systems of detection of presence in and delivery to location are provided. A method detects a presence of a mobile device within a perimeter of a geographic region. The method searches a database to determine whether the first mobile device is associated with any existing account. Responsive to determining that the mobile device is associated with a first account, the method searches the database to determine whether there is any pending task associated with the first account. Responsive to determining that there is a pending task associated with the first account, the method transmits a first message indicating the detection of presence of the mobile device associated with the first account. The method determines that the mobile device is at least approximately at a first location of a plurality of predefined locations within the perimeter. The method transmits information associated with the first location to the computing device.

Abstract: An illuminated garment is provided including at least three panels including a flexible fabric back panel, a flexible fabric front panel, and a planar light panel. The flexible fabric back panel forms the interior of the garment to be positioned adjacent to a person's body. The flexible fabric front panel forms the exterior of the garment. The planar light panel produces light and is positioned between the back panel and front panel. Preferably, a blackout layer is positioned on the interior side of the front panel to be adjacent said light panel. The flexible fabric front panel includes one or more openings in the form of decorative designs which permit the passage of light from the planar light panel.

Abstract: A garment comprising an outer layer on the exterior of a front part of the garment, a lining on the interior of the garment and an internal structure located between the outer layer and the lining. The internal structure comprises of a chest piece which extends from a shoulder part of the garment across a chest part of the garment without extending through to a lapel part of the garment and also a fusible material fused to the outer layer wherein the fusible material is located only partially across the outer layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a functional fabric, comprising: a substrate layer, said substrate layer including a cloth and a functional layer on said substrate layer, said functional layer including a silica gel masterbatch and anion additives, and having a three-dimensional configuration, wherein said functional layer has a thickness such that said functional fabric is capable of releasing a concentration of 1,000-6,000 anions per cubic centimeter.

Abstract: Upper-body garment assemblies with integrated waistband positioning systems. In some embodiments, the waistband positioning system is configured to maintain pants, skirts, leggings, tights, stockings, etc. in proper position against the forces of gravity. In some embodiments, the garment assembly includes at least one panel integrated with the waistband positioning system and configured to support another article of clothing and at least partially absorb and/or distribute the forces associated with supporting the other. The garment assembly may be any suitable type of top, shirt, brassiere, camisole, tank top, athletic top, or any other desired article of clothing having a panel with integrated waistband positioning system. In some embodiments, the waistband positioning system has one or more inner panels or areas configured to move independently from the outer layer of the garment assembly to support the weight of another article of clothing.

Abstract: Systems and methods for adjustable straps are disclosed. In various exemplary embodiments, adjustable slider-like mechanisms are configured with one or more protrusions for inserting through corresponding slits in a garment strap, for example a brassiere strap. In this manner, adjustable straps may be fixed in place and resist slippage, leading to improved wearer comfort and reducing or eliminating the need for regular adjustment.

Abstract: A dual blade retractable seam ripper is provided. The seam ripper has a generally cylindrical tube and a unitary injection molded slide block structure. The tube has a control slot and two capped ends with blade extension openings, one major and one minor. The unitary structure has a major seam ripping blade and a minor seam ripping blade, each carried by a support. Each blade projects through the corresponding cap opening. One support is attached to a leaf spring cantilevered at the other end. The spring carries a control button which projects through and moves within the slot and a locking pin which extends beyond the spring. Depressions in the tube engage and dis-engage with the locking pin as the button moves and is pressed.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a device and a method that maintains a patient's body temperature during surgical exposure and, more specifically, to a surgical, insulative cap that is contoured to the patient's head. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A hat including a crown with a base. An outer headband layer is affixed to the crown at the base by a base seam that extends around a circumference of the crown. an inner headband layer is affixed to the outer headband layer at a position opposite the base to define a circumferential pocket between the outer headband layer and the inner headband layer. A rail has a T-shaped cross section disposed in the pocket. The T-shaped cross section is defined by a stem and an arm. The rail is affixed to the outer headband layer and the inner headband layer by a first rail seam through the stem, the outer headband layer, and the inner headband layer. The rail is further affixed to the outer headband layer by a second rail seam only through the outer headband layer and the stem. A bill has a track with a figure four shaped cross section affixed thereon. The track has a channel that receives and retains the rail therein to guide the bill around the crown.

Abstract: A lighting apparatus is disclosed for mounting on a surface, the lighting apparatus includes a light emitting element plus a planar body having a first side and an opposing second side, the planar body is at least partially transparent, wherein the light emitting element is disposed within the planar body with the light emitting element being positioned between the first and second sides, wherein the light emitting element is visible from the second side. Also included in the lighting apparatus is an adhesive disposed on the first side, with the adhesive being affixed to the surface, the lighting apparatus is operational to enable the surface to have visibility from the light emitting element.

Abstract: A motorcycle helmet includes electronic components operating within the motorcycle helmet. At least a portion of the electronic components is embedded within an outer shell of the helmet or an inner shell of the helmet. The plurality of electronic components comprise one or more internally mounted sensors for detecting objects present in a blind spot of a wearer. A software program may execute within the electronic components, which receiving processed output based on data from the one or more internally mounted sensors. An output mechanism integrated into the motorcycle helmet and electronically coupled to the electronic components may present the processed output to a wearer of the helmet.

Abstract: A baseball cap having impact protection includes a prior art baseball cap and an inner impact layer. The inner impact layer preferably includes at least two impact wedges. Each impact wedge matches the outer perimeter shape of one of the six wedges that make-up a cap portion of the baseball cap. Each impact wedge includes a plurality of non-bursting gas cells. Each gas cell preferably has a semi-spherical or a semi-tubular shape. The plurality of impact wedges may be permanently or removably secured to an inside surface of the baseball cap. The impact wedge includes a base sheet and an outside sheet. The outside sheet is attached to the base sheet to form the plurality of non-bursting gas cells. Alternatively, each wedge may be fabricated from closed cell foam that matches the outer perimeter shape of one of the six wedges that make-up a cap portion of the baseball cap.

Abstract: A protective helmet includes a plurality of fluid filled bladders, impact sensors, valves, and pumps wherein the helmet absorbs energy from an impact to protect a person wearing the helmet from traumatic brain injury. The bladders expel fluid in response to a triggering event such as energy from an impact detected as a pressure spike event and/or detected as an acceleration event. A selected bladder may expel fluid to other bladders, to a reservoir, to the environment outside of the protective helmet, or combinations thereof. In embodiments where the bladders need additional fluid after an impact, one or more pumps may refill selected deflated bladders. When a bladder is underinflated, an indicator light may emit light on an outer surface of the protective helmet to warn that the bladder is not yet ready to be placed in operation to absorb another impact.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus to dissipate and attenuate mechanical waves which travel through a human brain upon blunt trauma. The apparatus comprises a pressurizable and ventable outer balloon shell encasing an inner hard shell. The pressurizable and ventable outer balloon shell is configured to release a pressurized gas to the atmosphere upon an impact to said pressurizable and ventable outer balloon shell. The apparatus is configured to enhance efficiency in reduction of an amplitude of the mechanical waves of the blunt trauma delivered to the human brain and to disrupt doubling-up of mechanical waves in a pressure zone inside the pressurizable and ventable outer balloon shell. The apparatus is configured to ventilate the pressurizable and ventable outer balloon shell and the inner hard shell.

Abstract: A structured material for impact protection includes a plurality of tubular members formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material. The plurality of tubular members are arranged in a bundle such that the central axes of the plurality of tubular members are substantially parallel, and adjacent tubular members are secured to one another along their length. A method of forming a structured impact protection material includes arranging a plurality of tubes formed from a thermoplastic elastomer material into a selected shape. The tubes are arranged in a layer with central axes of the plurality of tubes aligned to be parallel to each other. Heat is applied to adjacent first end portions of tubes of plurality of tubes and the adjacent first end portions are secured to each other via thermal bond. Heat is applied to adjacent second end portions of the tubes and the adjacent second end portions are secured to each other via thermal bond.

Abstract: A helmet having a chin bar fastened at two points on each side of the shell. The shell is molded with recessed portions designed to receive the two branches of the chin bar on each side where they will be fastened to the shell so that the outer surfaces of the chin guard are flush with the shell at the locations of attachment to provide a smooth transition and reduce weight. An adjustment device to adjust the fit of the helmet to the user includes a star wheel on each side of the helmet attached to an arcuate flexible strip extending rearwardly around the occipital area of the skull. A sliding mechanism attached to the strip allows the strip to be moved forward and backward to allow it to be tightened or loosened, respectively, with respect to the player's head. A ratcheting lateral adjustment device is also disclosed.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, an integrated fit and retention system is provided. In a particular embodiment of the present invention, the integrated fit and retention system includes a first rigid strap and a second rigid strap, each having a first end and a second end. The first end of each rigid strap is coupled to a helmet body proximate a front of the helmet body, and the second end of each rigid strap is coupled to the helmet body proximate a rear of the helmet body. The integrated fit and retention system also includes a chin strap operable to couple the first and second rigid straps beneath a chin of a wearer. In particular embodiments, the integrated fit and retention system may further include a fit strap coupling the first and second rigid straps, that may be configured to sit below an occipital lobe of the wearer.

Abstract: A work or sports protective helmet, with a structure having a substantially convex outer surface; a substantially concave inner surface adapted to receive a user's head in engagement is provided. The helmet also has two coupling and decoupling elements for engagement an accessory, such as a visor, a mask, a net or a similar accessory, each of which can be engaged on a lateral portion of the outer surface of structure. Each coupling and decoupling element can be removed from the helmet and has a body having a coupling mechanism which allows the engagement and the disengagement of the accessory to/from the helmet when the coupling and decoupling elements are engaged on the latter.

Abstract: Uppers for articles of footwear (or foot-covering members for other foot-receiving devices) include: (a) an upper member including medial and lateral side portions, each side portion including at least one pair of slots spaced in a top-to-bottom direction and (b) a first strap portion that extends between and through each of the medial slots and the lateral slots such that the first strap portion is exposed between the pair of medial slots and between the pair of lateral slots and such that the first strap portion extends across the instep opening. One, two, or more other “strap portions” may be provided, e.g., that extend between additional pairs of medial and lateral slots and across the instep opening. A shoe lace may be provided to extend through and between areas defined by the strap portions and the pairs of medial and lateral slots.