Abstract: An automated ice dispenser (30) decouples the action of agitating ice stored in an ice bin (69) and the action of dispensing the ice and, additionally, uses a controlled action to dispense the ice. Agitation is achieved with a horizontally mounted agitator (91). Ice is dispensed with a horizontally mounted auger (124). The ice dispenser (30) uses the force created by the auger (124) to push the ice through an opening (71) and out of the bin (69), making the dispensing more consistent and providing the ability to overcome clumping. By making the agitation action independent of the dispensing action, the incidence of clumping is reduced. Agitation is controlled by software, whereunder the agitator (91) turns on based on the cumulative run time of the auger (124). Auger run time and agitation time (as well as other configurable parameters) are adjustable by DIP switches (134) on a control board (133).

Abstract: A carrying case for neck ties comprises three panels which fold one over the other and include special loops to support the midpoint of the ties within the carrying case. The separate panels are connected by soft, living hinges. The carrying case is especially useful in smaller luggage cases of the type popular for airline carry on travel.

Abstract: A hanging garment bag is transformable into a valet by unfolding said garment bag and retaining the unzipped closure panels in an open, upright configuration with a retainer assembly. The retainer assembly comprises a tubular housing, two telescopic subassemblies and two attachment subassemblies. The tubular housing is encased in a fabric-like sleeve sewn to a top gusset panel within a clothing compartment. Each telescopic subassembly comprises a first telescopic arm member which slideably retracts into and slideably extends outwardly from the tubular housing and a second telescopic arm member which slideably retracts into and slideably extends outwardly from the first telescopic arm member. Each end portion of the second telescopic arm members has an attachment subassembly for releaseable attachment of the retainer assembly to the closure panels of the garment bag.