Abstract: A sole structure includes a sole component, which has an inner surface and an outer surface opposite the inner surface. The sole component has a length and a thickness. The sole component includes a sole material, and the sole material has a density. At least one of the thickness or the density varies along the length of the sole component. The sole component defines a plurality of holes extending from at least one of the inner surface and the outer surface and arranged to form an auxetic structure. The auxetic structure is configured such that, when the sole component is tensioned in a first direction, the sole component expands in both the first direction and in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. A property of the auxetic structure varies as a function of the density or the thickness of the sole component.

Abstract: An article of footwear with a midsole has an auxetic bladder member formed from inflated components surrounding star-shaped apertures. The inflated components form one or more auxetic bladders, and may have a triangular geometry. The inflated components are fluidly connected to adjoining components. Adjoining inflated components are hingedly connected, so that they can rotate with respect to each other in the plane of the midsole.

Abstract: An article of footwear with an upper including a ribbon structure is disclosed. The ribbon structure comprises ribbon sections running in at least two different directions. Ribbon sections are connected at nodes. Between nodes portions of ribbon act like links joining the nodes. The links can be arranged in various geometries, including a rectangular grid and a triaxial grid. The ribbon structure may extend the entire length of the article of footwear, and may extend through a forefoot, midfoot and heel.

Abstract: The shoelace knot retainer is configured for use with a shoelace. The shoelace knot retainer holds the shoelace in position after the shoelace has been tightened on the shoe. The shoelace knot retainer comprises a pedestal, a stanchion, and a sleeve. The pedestal is intermediate structure that transfers the load of the shoelace knot retainer to the surface of the shoe. The stanchion forms an anchor point around which the shoelace is wound. The shoelace is wound around the stanchion during the tightening process. The sleeve is an elastomeric structure. The stanchion and the shoelace insert into the sleeve such that the sleeve compresses around the shoelace thereby holding the shoelace in position. The stanchion is further formed with an accommodation that secures the tips of the shoelace to the stanchion.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a device for retaining the shape of a shoe. The shoe insert provided herein for retaining the shape of a shoe includes a toe fabric bag and a vamp fabric bag. Each fabric bag may be made of a malleable form-fitting fabric. Each fabric bag may be of different sizes and shapes to fit shoes of different sizes and shapes. Also disclosed are methods of manufacturing a shoe insert and methods of using a device for retaining the shape of a shoe.

Abstract: A shoe upper mounting machine with a string lasting means is designed for mounting a shoe upper using a string lasting means for the footwear mounting sector with high-productivity, using the string lasting method of sewing the edges with a lasting string. The invention includes the use of this technology in footwear models which are normally excluded because they have sturdy, not flexible shoe uppers which are difficult to conform using string lasting. It is sufficient to provide a shoe upper with new dimensions suitable for this mounting technology. The machine is capable of lasting any string and adjusting any shoe upper to the form, provided these materials conform with acceptable quality standards for footwear components. The invention is characterized by a module (3) for fitting shoe uppers onto the form (F), a string lasting module (4), and optionally a module (5) for coupling and uncoupling the couplable footwear form.

Abstract: A magnetic button used with a preexisting button and a preexisting button hole associated with the preexisting button of an article of clothing. The magnetic button includes a female portion and a male portion. The female portion attaches to the preexisting button of the article of clothing, and the male portion is inserted into the preexisting button hole of the article of clothing. The male portion is magnetic, while the female portion is magnetic attractive, and being so, a location position of the male portion and the female portion are selective for allowing a user to merely put the male portion and the female portion together in a comfortable location by virtue of the female portion being magnetically attractive to the male portion being magnetic.

Abstract: A connector for a soft or flexible article, the connector including a male structure having a base and a projection, the projection defining a head and a stem connecting the head to the base, the male structure base defining at least one tag extending substantially perpendicular to the projection. The connector includes a carriage structure having a base which defines a socket arranged to receive the projection of the male structure, the carriage structure defining at least one tag extending substantially parallel to the socket. The connector also provides a guide structure which defines a guide cavity arranged to receive the male structure projection when the male structure projection is located within the socket of the carriage structure, the guide cavity defining an entry zone and a compression zone.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for operably mounting a slider onto a recloseable plastic zipper closure includes a rotor having at least one slider-engaging shoulder; an insertion wedge adjacent to the rotor and sized to slidably accommodate the slider for mounting onto a zipper closure; and a zipper guide member adjacent to the rotor and adjacent to the insertion wedge for guiding and holding a zipper closure while the slider is mounted thereon. The insertion wedge will have a leading edge and a trailing edge and increase in thickness from the leading edge to the trailing edge. The apparatus can be vertically oriented or horizontally oriented.

Abstract: Strap arrangement comprising a first strap portion comprising a plurality of strap engaging structures, each strap engaging structure defines a size of an opening of the strap arrangement; a flexible second strap portion comprising at least one locking piece, the locking piece comprising at least one locking piece engaging structure for being aligned with at least one of the strap engaging structures; and at least one magnet adapted to force the locking piece engaging structure against at least one of the strap engaging structures by a magnetic force.

Abstract: A strap (2) for a watch (1) comprising: a first fastening portion (4); a watch supporting portion (6); and a second fastening portion (8). The first and second fastening portions comprise a series of holes (22, 24) spaced along each fastening portion. The first fastening portion further comprises an opening (10) through which the second fastening portion can be threaded and at least one pin (12) projecting inwards from the strap so as to be received in a hole in the second fastening portion. The second fastening portion further comprises at least one pin (14) projecting inwards from the strap so as to be received in a hole in the first fastening portion when the second fastening portion is threaded through the opening and laid on top of the first fastening portion. The first fastening portion further comprises at least one peg (18) projecting outwards from the strap so as to engage in a hole in the second fastening portion.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage devices for providing directions haptically such that sight and hearing can continue unimpeded. In one exemplary embodiment, a wearable device (such as earphones, ear rings, gloves, glasses, or other wearable objects) configured as disclosed herein receives directions to an intended destination for a user, the directions comprising a movement action and a distance to the movement action. The wearable device has multiple haptic output units and generates, through one of those units, a haptic output based on the directions. This allows the user to receive the directions through touch rather than looking at their mobile device or from audio.

Abstract: An umbrella frame bending structure for two-fold inverted umbrella includes an umbrella shaft assembly, an umbrella frame and bending devices. The bending devices are arranged on the umbrella frame such that when the main ribs and auxiliary ribs of the umbrella frame are opened, the auxiliary ribs limit the opening distance of the main ribs, causing the main ribs to curve. The umbrella frame bending structure has the advantages of low cost, simple structure and ease of installation.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed at an umbrella including a canopy having a set of canopy portions; and a frame portion comprising a shaft portion; a sliding collar assembly coupled to the shaft portion and sliding along the shaft portion; and a set of ribs, each of the independent ribs attached to one of the set of canopy portions and to the sliding collar assembly, where each of the set of ribs move independently of each other when a high wind force is experienced by one of the canopy portions.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a reconfigurable bag which can form a variety of bags, handbags and purses. With all of the demands of busy lives, women today need to have a variety of bags and purses. Women need a clutch for evening use, a large purse for taking to work, a smaller purse for daytime outings, and a briefcase or computer bag. A reconfigurable bag as disclosed herein would help to eliminate these issues by providing a bag that can be converted to a variety of bags and purses.

Abstract: A protective case, including: a back cover and a front cover connected by a hinge. The front cover is divided into a five stiffener sections that are defined by four creases. The first and second stiffener sections are in a shape of a triangle. The second stiffener section is smaller in area than the first stiffener section. The third stiffener section is bordered by the second and third crease. The fourth stiffener section and the fifth stiffener section form a flap at an end of the front cover that is opposite the hinge, and the fourth stiffener section and the fifth stiffener section are the same size, and are separated by the fourth crease. An outer side of the front cover has a gap that is located between an angled edge of the fourth stiffener section and an angled edge of the fifth stiffener section.

Abstract: A protective case, including: a back cover configured to secure an electronic reading device; and a front cover connected to the back cover by a hinge. The front cover is divided into a plurality of separate stiffener sections that are defined by a plurality of creases, and the plurality or creases are configured to allow movement of the plurality of stiffener sections so that the protective case can be folded into a stand.

Abstract: A housing for encasing an object includes a top member and a bottom member configured to be removably coupled to the top member. The top member includes a first clasping mechanism. The bottom member includes a second clasping mechanism. The first clasping mechanism and the second clasping mechanism are entirely internal to the housing. One of the perimeter portion of the top member and the perimeter portion of the bottom member includes an interior bounding member and an exterior bounding member defining a channel therebetween. The housing includes a compressible gasket seated in the channel and configured to seal between the top member and the bottom member when the bottom member is removably coupled to the top member.

Abstract: A disposable container for solvent contaminated wipes and a method of using the disposable container to prevent solvent contaminated wipes from spontaneously combusting is disclosed. The disposable container may be a flexible bag made of a material having a solvent-resistant, non-permeable layer and optionally other layers. The disposable container has an oxygen-reduction system including an air-tight seal, which may be formed in a variety of ways, and an oxygen-removal mechanism, such as a small pump that is integral to the flexible bag or a pump outlet that can be connected to an external pump.

Abstract: A luggage article, such as luggage case, with zipper pull-tabs laterally engaged along inner sides and separably secured by a magnetic force, without interlocking with each other, to allow enhanced manipulation of the zipper pull-tabs, zipper sliders and optionally improved operation of the lock mechanism.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a wheeled case, such as an article of luggage, utilizing a belt with a connector to secure the wheeled case to the users back is provided. The apparatus may connect the handle of the wheeled case to the user's back and may allow the user to maneuver the wheeled case behind his or herself without further use of their hands.

Abstract: An apparatus manipulates the shape of hair using dielectric heating. Typically,the apparatus includes opposing first and second electrodes respectively provided on first and second arms that are movable towards and away from one another. Drive circuitry supplies electrical energy to the first and second electrodes, to cause an alternating electric field to be produced in the vicinity of the electrodes in use, and thereby cause dielectric heating of hair placed between the electrodes in use. Sensing circuitry senses a change in coupling of energy from the alternating electric field to the hair during heating of the hair. Control circuitry controls the drive circuitry to vary the electrical energy supplied to the first and second electrodes in dependence upon the sensed change in coupling. A related method manipulates the shape of hair using dielectric heating.

Abstract: A hair dye device includes a barrel, wherein the barrel includes a hollow center and a hook extending from one end of the barrel and an absorbent material impregnated with hair dye, wherein the absorbent material is configured to extend beyond the one end of the barrel, wherein a tip of the absorbent material moves toward the hook to provide a loop to capture hair within the loop.

Abstract: A mobile salon chair, work station, and mobile shampoo bowl are described. The salon chair includes a storage container with a seat, backrest, and applicable electrical components. All system components can be stored within the salon chair for transportation to the client's location. The workstation provides tool storage for necessary hair grooming tools. The shampoo bowl is supported by a removable stand. The shampoo bowl has a drain and tubing so that used water can be captured. A clean water bladder is provided to store clean water. A submersible pump installed within the clean water bladder delivers water to the shampoo bowl. Used water from the drain in the shampoo bowl is stored within a second bladder. The clean water bladder is placed within the volume of the used water bladder.

Abstract: A deodorant dispensing apparatus including a reusable product dispenser and a deodorant refill cartridge releasably coupled to the reusable product dispenser. The reusable product dispenser includes a cylindrical housing, a base, a telescope, and a spring. The base is rotatably coupled to the cylindrical housing and operably coupled to the telescope. The spring is operably coupled to a spring holster of the base and the telescope. The deodorant refill cartridge includes a refill barrel and refill plunger. The refill plunger is rotatably coupled to the refill barrel, which retains a deodorant product therein. The refill barrel includes a latching mechanism for releasably coupling the refill barrel to the reusable product dispenser.

Abstract: A dispensing package comprising one or more jackets, a screw assembly, and a movable elevator platform; the screw assembly comprising a spindle comprising two external thread portions, which allows for a quick first turn.

Abstract: A system and method for batch sizing a formula that defining one or more hair dye materials and corresponding recommended amounts for creating an individual batch sized amount of a hair dye mixture. One method includes providing a control system having at least a processor and a computer-readable memory, wherein the memory contains software configured to receive a formula defining instructions for blending a hair dye mixture using one or more colorants and/or dye blending materials and amounts recommended for the hair dye mixture. The method further includes presenting a plurality of batch sizing adjustment criteria on a display; and receiving user input, via a user input device, selecting one or more of the plurality of batch sizing adjustment criteria. The batch sizing adjustment criteria includes service characteristics.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for determining the color of a cosmetic product adapted to the skin of a wearer of the cosmetic product, the method including the following steps: —supply data related to the color of the wearer's skin, —determine the color of the cosmetic product by using a correspondence function applied to data about the color appearance of the wearer's skin, the correspondence function associating a cosmetic product color with a wearer's skin color appearance, the correspondence function having at least three reference associations, a reference association associating a predetermined cosmetic product color with a predetermined wearer skin color within a tolerance, the tolerance being equal to a distance of 2 in the L*a*b* color space.

Abstract: A carry harness includes: two carry straps, two chest straps connected respectively to the carry straps, a chest fastener configured for joining together the chest straps, the fastener extending along an attachment plane, and at least one tool-carrying strap. The chest straps and the tool-carrying strap are connected to the chest fastener with freedom to pivot in the plane of attachment about at least one axis of pivoting passing through the chest fastener and perpendicular to the attachment plane. The chest fastener has a first part and a second part, which parts are non-pivoting and removable one from the other, the first part and the second part being connected respectively to the chest straps. Application to the carrying of tools and batteries of accumulator cells.

Abstract: A clip comprising a base portion with a base terminal end opposite a base connected end, a connector portion attached to the base portion at the base connected end, an anchor portion with an anchor terminal end opposite an anchor connected end wherein the anchor connected end is connected to the connector portion, and a fastener attached to the anchor portion and non-destructively removably attached to the base portion proximate the base terminal end.

Abstract: A lanyard with attachment members such as a tool holding member, tether key, or carabiner, is provided. The lanyard includes one or more elastic cords within a sheath. The sheath has a much lower elasticity than the elastic cord. The higher spring constant or modulus of elasticity of the sheath limits the total extended length of the lanyard in operation. The elastic cords stretch to absorb the energy of falling equipment up to the length of the outer sheath. The attachment members may be attached to the sheath or may include components of the sheath and or the elastic cord. The lanyard allows for an elastic response to absorb the energy of a falling tool and a restraint to the total extended length of the lanyard.

Abstract: A system that includes a styling tool configured to treat or shape a user's hair; and a client device configured to communicate with the styling tool and provide feedback to the user regarding a user's usage of the styling tool based at least in part on measured data captured by the styling tool. The styling tool may be a hairbrush that includes circuitry and/or sensors configured to detect one or more of sound, acceleration, force, rotation, hair humidity, and ambient temperature and humidity.

Abstract: A foldable table and table legs comprises a tabletop comprising a plurality of tabletop sections each of which are interconnected by a hinge mechanism allowing the tabletop fold into a small, compact package. Detachable and foldable legs are configured for coupling to a table skirt comprising four segments which fold down from a storage pocket on the underside of the tabletop. The foldable legs interconnect with the table skirt once it is folded down from its storage position. The tabletop and foldable legs may all be folded into a compact, portable and packable configuration.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel glass-ceramic sheet intended in particular to be used as a surface of a furniture unit and/or as a worktop, and which comprises, in at least one of its faces, in particular its lower face, at least one connection element of a height less than 10 cm and of which the cross section is inscribed inside a circle of a diameter less than 3 cm, said connection element being made from a material able to withstand at least 70° C. and being bonded to said face by means of a thermosetting adhesive. The present invention also relates to an item of furniture and/or household equipment, and in particular a worktop or a furniture unit incorporating said sheet.

Abstract: A lap table has a semi-circular cut-out along an inside edge of an extended platform. Beneath the table are a pair of adjustable leg assemblies that are capable of providing an upright configuration that allows the platform to stand and abut against a body of a user, particularly while lying in a bed.

Abstract: A multipurpose holder designed for books, electronic devices, and fine art. It is comprised of a solid back and durable base that can support large items. An adjustable rear back support is held in place by an oval-shaped ring and tightened with screws. A rear back support allows for inclination of the multipurpose holder. Two feet provide stabilization. Two hinges hold a magnetic swinging visor in place and the visor can be placed in the upward or the downward position. When the visor is in the downward position, a built-in storage embodiment is easily accessible. The storage embodiment has an exterior box and interior compartment. There are hooks at the back and magnetic components at the front to allow for the attachment of accessories. It is light in weight and has handles that make it easy to carry.

Abstract: A modular container holder comprising a backing panel and a collapsible basket portion, the backing panel has a magnetic mounting means adapted to detachably secure the modular container holder to a vertical mounting surface, the basket portion projects forwardly from the backing panel and is adapted to receive and retain a container. The basket portion has a plurality of movable basket elements which allow the basket portion to be alternatively placed in an assembled state to receive the container, and a collapsed state which reduces the amount of space occupied by the modular container holder. A contiguous modular arrangement of multiple modular containers positioned in column or row configurations allows multiple containers to be stored, while the basket portion is tilted forwardly to prevent the obstruction of basket openings when the modular container holders are vertically stacked in the column configuration.

Abstract: A gun cabinet has an opening door and an enclosure with a bottom wall having a slot. The enclosure contains a drawer which is supported on a caster wheel on an associated floor. The drawer is slidably attached to the enclosure so that the drawer can be pulled substantially out of the enclosure or rolled back into the enclosure with the caster wheel being received into the slot in the bottom wall of the enclosure.

Abstract: A slide rail assembly comprises a first rail, an engaging member, a second rail and a locking member. The engaging member is arranged on the first rail and comprises a resilient portion. The second rail is movable relative to the first rail. The locking member is movably mounted on the second rail. When the second rail at a first position moves to a second position in a first direction relative to the first rail, the locking member locks with the resilient portion of the engaging member to prevent the second rail at the second position from moving in a second direction.

Abstract: A drawer organizer that is easily customizable and that is configured for simple packaging as a kit. The drawer organizer includes a base and a plurality of partitions formed from a flexible material having a grid or waffle configuration that provides a plurality of grid spaces therein and a plurality of tabs along portions of the perimeters of the base and partitions. Connector assemblies are provided to retain the partitions at junctions therebetween. The connector assemblies include an inside corner piece and a pair of locking plates. The corner piece engages grid spaces in the intersecting partitions. The locking plates engage the corner pieces to capture the partitions therebetween. The drawer organizer can be provided as a kit in a rolled up tubular form in which all components thereof are rolled together.

Abstract: A server rack includes supports connected to a bottom base, and at least one shelf connected between at least two of the supports. Adjustable feet engaging the bottom base are disposed proximate a corresponding generally corner region of the bottom base. Jack bodies protruding upwardly from the bottom base are disposed proximate the corresponding generally corner region of the bottom base.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an attachment arrangement adapted to connect a first furniture part to a second furniture part. The attachment arrangement comprises a first attachment part adapted to be inserted into a recess in said first furniture part along a first axis, and a second attachment part adapted to be inserted into a recess in said second furniture part by a relative motion along a second axis. The second attachment part comprises at least one elongated ridge having a length and a height extending in a ridge plane, the ridge plane having a normal forming an angle to the first axis, which angle is smaller than 30°, wherein said at least one elongated ridge is formed on top and/or side surfaces of the second attachment part. The disclosure also relates to a piece of furniture comprising a first furniture part, a second furniture part and an attachment arrangement.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides a rear structure coupled to a display panel. The rear structure comprises a wall mount assembly comprising a first kit comprising a first wall mount bracket, a plurality of circularly arranged first trenches, and a plurality of first magnets accommodated by the first trenches, and a second kit removably coupled to the first kit comprising a second wall mount bracket structurally complementary to the first wall mount bracket, a plurality of circularly arranged second trenches, and a plurality of second magnets accommodated by the second trenches. Wherein when the first kit is coupled to the second kit, each of the first magnets is located corresponds to one of the second magnets, and a magnetism of a side of one of the first magnets facing the second kit is opposite to a magnetism of a side of one of the second magnets facing the first kit.

Abstract: A collapsible and portable seating apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus includes two or more seat assemblies. A first seat assembly is mechanically coupled to a second seat assembly. Each seat assembly includes a hinge assembly. The apparatus includes a display assembly mechanically coupled to the two or more seat assemblies. The display assembly includes a display device. The apparatus includes two or more wheeled-supports. The two or more wheeled-supports are mechanically coupled to the seat assemblies. The seat assemblies are collapsible at each of hinged assemblies and the seat assemblies. The two or more seating assemblies and the display assembly are portable via the one or more wheeled supports.

Abstract: A wheeled device that converts between a multi-mode beach chair and a standard vertical dolly. It can also be used as a flat 2-wheeled wagon. A rigid frame includes at least two parts coupled by hinges, a first part (long part) that can fold to different lengths, and a second part (short part). There is a swiveling top handle on the end of the long part, and a swiveling bottom handle on the end of the short part. In a long chair mode, the long part is fully extended; in the short chair mode, it is folded and In the dolly mode, the short part forms the bottom of the dolly.

Abstract: An assistive device for standing tasks allows for a reduction of effort on the part of a user while engaged in tasks or activities that are stationary or nearly stationary that lessens the strain on the bones, joints, and muscles normally used for standing while ensuring a proper alignment of the pelvis and spine.

Abstract: A drive for adjusting parts of seating and lying furniture, wherein a first furniture component is mounted moveably relative to a second furniture component, includes at least one spindle rotatable by an electric motor. An adjusting nut is carried on the spindle, is guided non-rotatably in a guide tube, and is drivable by rotation of the spindle in the axial direction of the guide tube. A lift tube is operatively connected to the adjusting nut. A first pivotal connecting device is arranged at the free end of the lift tube and may be pivotally connected to the first furniture component by way of a first hinge connection. A second pivotal connecting device is provided at the opposite end of the drive and can be fixed by way of a second hinge connection to a stationary frame portion or to a second furniture component.

Abstract: The present invention is a bed warming device that safely and effectively warms the interior space between the fitted sheet and the top sheet of a bed. The bed warming device includes a heating element similar to those used in hair dryers. The device includes a suction member that suctions ambient air to be heated and delivers it through a narrowing portion that increases the pressure of the heated air. The pressurized, heated air is then expelled to preselected locations of the bed using a plurality of openings located throughout the perimeter of the device's T-shaped hot air delivery assembly. The hot air delivery assembly can include raised portions configured to create a space between the openings and the top bed sheet, thereby maintaining efficient air flow.

Abstract: A housing of the air pump has a first air inlet, an air inlet passage, an inflation inlet, an air outlet passage and an air outlet. The motor has two output shafts, the first fan is connected with one of the output shafts and located at one end of the air inlet passage, and the second fan is connected with another output shaft and located at one end of the air outlet passage. The second and the first fans are configured to rotate at a same direction, and the inflation inlet is located between the first and the second fans. The first switch unit is adapted to connect or disconnect the first air inlet with the air inlet passage, and the second switch unit is adapted to connect or disconnect the air outlet with the air outlet passage. The air pump has simple structure, convenient control and low cost.

Abstract: Smart response technology mattresses generally includes a sub-core assembly including a self-adjusting, non-powered smart response unit and a polyurethane foam circumscribing a perimeter of the smart response unit and having a thickness equal to or less than a thickness of the smart response unit, wherein the smart response unit comprises a plurality of fluid support cells, wherein each fluid support cell includes an envelope and a reforming element disposed within the envelope; a manifold system including a manifold conduit interconnecting at least two of the fluid support cells, and intake and exhaust valves fluidly coupled to the manifold conduit configured to dynamically open and close in response to a weight load. The mattresses include additional foam layers overlaying the sub-core assembly to define the smart response technology mattresses.