Abstract: A bracelet having an adjustable clasp portion. The bracelet includes a clasp portion defining a first end, a hook portion having a hook defining a second end, and a band portion between the clasp portion and the hook portion. The clasp portion has raised structures separated by openings and is curved to follow a curvature of the band portion. Each of the raised structures extends laterally relative to the band portion and protrudes beyond an outer surface of the band portion to be engaged by the hook.

Abstract: A watch type terminal includes a main body, and a strap connected to the main body. In the watch type terminal, the strap includes one or more modules each having a specific function, and one or more partition straps having the one or more modules respectively received thereat. In the strap, the module and the partition strap are electrically connected to each other.

Abstract: Adjustable link for a bracelet, including first and second half links which are longitudinally movable via the cooperation of a guide device and a complementary guide device, and secured by the cooperation of arresting device and complementary arresting device. The first half link includes a longitudinal finger with a locking device having radial elastic return moveable between folded and unfolded positions, and the second half link includes a longitudinal channel allowing the finger to pass in only one of the folded or unfolded positions. In proximity to this channel, a complementary locking device cooperates, in at least one locking position, with the locking device in the other of this folded or unfolded positions. The locking device and complementary locking device together define at least two of the longitudinally separate locking positions.

Abstract: Clasp comprising a cover connected to a first bracelet strand and to a second bracelet strand, a connecting means being inserted between the second bracelet strand and the cover of the clasp, the connecting means comprising an end link sliding between a first position in which it is engaged in the cover of the clasp, and a second position in which it is outside the cover of the clasp, the end link comprising a push-button which causes a toothed element to change from a first position, in which the toothed element is in mesh with a rack toothing, to a second position, in which the toothed element is released, the end link being provided with an arresting means preventing the removal of the end link from the cover of the clasp, the arresting means comprising at least one lug, which projects into a groove arranged in the bottom of the cover and which defines two end stop members.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for adjusting the size of a bracelet are disclosed. In one embodiment, the bracelet includes a first end with a plurality of size adjustment openings and a second end having a hook. The hook is configured to latch on to one of the plurality of size adjustment openings to adjust the diameter of the bracelet.

Abstract: A latch for a bracelet having an extensible buckle, includes a cap defining a recess and including a slide in which a slider is engaged, the slider being intended for connecting the cap (10) to a bracelet strand using first hinge elements (18). The slider includes at least first (16) and second (17) segments connected together by second hinge elements (20). The segments (16, 17) are folded into the recess when the latch buckle is not extended. The latch (1) further includes slider indexing elements provided in the cap so that the slider can assume a sequence of fixed positions relative to the cap, between a first and second end position. In the first end position, the slider is located in the recess such that the ends (14a, 14b) of the latch are at a minimal distance. In the second end position, the slider is located essentially outside the recess.

Abstract: A cooling assembly for cooling a thermal body for an aircraft. The cooling assembly has a Peltier element with a hot side and a cold side. Furthermore, the cooling assembly has a thermal body. The thermal body is arranged in heat-conductive contact with the cold side of the Peltier element. The hot side of the Peltier element is adapted to dissipate thermal energy to an aircraft structure, such that the thermal body may be cooled.

Abstract: Deployant or folding clasp including, hinged around a support, a first arm being hinged to a first stirrup member, and a second arm to a second stirrup member. This first stirrup member forms part of a first single-piece cap whose bottom surface defines, with one end of this first arm, in any angular position thereof, a space for the passage of a wristband strand having a thickness smaller than or equal to a given thickness, and this second stirrup member forms the bottom part of a second removable cap and includes at least one securing means arranged to cooperate, by clamping around an orifice of a wristband strand, with a complementary securing means of a removable top part of this second cap, to adjust the useful length of this wristband strand.

Abstract: A article of survival equipment for wear by the user comprising a weaved cord portion, a shackle, a tongue and a pin. The shackle is coupled to one end of the cord portion and further includes two apertures disposed at opposing ends of the shackle adapted to receive a pin. The tongue is coupled to the other end of the cord portion and is disposed between the ends of the shackle. The tongue further includes a plurality of apertures for receiving the pin. The pin extends substantially between the shackle apertures when inserted in the shackle and the tongue.

Abstract: A bracelet clasp including an easily manipulated device of simple structure for adjusting the usable length of the bracelet by a firm adjustment, including when the clasp is open. The adjusting device is separate from the locking member, and the lock is arranged to move from its closed state to its open state by the user acting on the control member of the locking member such that the adjusting device is capable of being shifted independently of the open or closed state of the clasp. The invention has a discrete structure, since it is actuated by the control member already provided for unlocking the clasp, although it is separate from the locking member of the clasp, and this additionally allows the length of the bracelet to be adjusted even when the clasp is in its closed state.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a clasp with an extensible buckle for a bracelet enabling the length of the bracelet to be adjusted. This clasp comprises: a central support (1); a first and second pivoting strip (2a, 2b) articulated at the respective ends of the central support (1) and capable of being closed on the latter; means for closing and opening (14, 16, 17, 19, 22) the clasp arranged in such a way as to lock the first and second pivoting strip (2a, 2b) against the central support (1) and to unlock said first and second pivoting strip (2a, 2b) of the central support (1) so they can be extended; at least one first attachment (6a) solid with the first pivoting strip (2a), and arranged to be connected to a first strand of the bracelet and a second attachment (6b) solid with the second pivoting strip (2b) and arranged to be able to be linked to a second strand of the bracelet.

Abstract: An enhancer for jewelry necklaces in which the enhancer is connected to lower ends of an upper strand and allows a plurality of lower strands to be attached to each respective enhancer so as to allow the consumer to provide a plurality of ornamental appearances for the resulting necklace structure. An alternative embodiment uses a single enhancer for allowing a plurality of decorative elements such as charms to be added to a necklace.

Abstract: The bracelet includes two flexible end parts (8, 9) which are separable and arranged to overlap each other in the closed position of the bracelet, the bracelet includes a first magnetic circuit portion (11a, 11b) integrated in one of the end parts and a second magnetic circuit portion (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f) integrated in the other end part, the magnetic circuit portions being arranged to mutually attract each other so as to unite the two end parts in the closed position of the bracelet. One of the end parts (9) includes a plurality of second magnetic circuit portions (12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, 12e, 12f) which are arranged parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other to enable the length of the bracelet to be selected. The magnetic circuit portions each include a soft ferromagnetic alloy yoke (14a, 14b, 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, 16f) arranged transversely to the bracelet and parallel to the surface of the end part in which the magnetic circuit portion is integrated.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element and a second band element with a planar body extending from a first to a second end. The second band element body is greater in length than the first band element body and includes a hole for receiving the first band element body. The band includes a coupling mechanism that detachably connects an outer sidewall of the first band element body to the inner sidewall of the second band element body, e.g., to allow the two band elements to be selectively disconnected and reassembled without tools. The coupling mechanism includes a first coupling component extending along the outer sidewall of the first band element and a second coupling element extending along the inner sidewall of the second band element such that the two band elements are connected along the periphery of the hole.

Abstract: Described are multifunctional jewelry rings and methods comprising a ring band section, a base, a restraining device, and a ring top. The restraining device has a central portion extending through the base and the ring band section and has first and second end portions extending from a bottom surface of the base. In a first state, the restraining device holds a finger in place against the ring band section. In a second state, the restraining device holds a bundle of hair together against the ring band section. The ornamental ring top is removably attached to the base.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element with a raised center or identification member. The band includes a second band element with a body having a loop or lasso at one end defined by an inner surface of a sidewall. The outer sidewall of the raised center member is detachably coupled to the inner surface of the loop-defining sidewall when the center member is received within and captured by the loop such as by a snap detent arrangement. To allow sizing, the second band element includes both an inner band sizing element including the loop-defining sidewall at one of its ends and an outer band sizing element that is detachably coupled to the inner band sizing element. The length of the second band element is defined by the combined length of the inner and outer band sizing elements.

Abstract: A wrist-wearable device uses a loop keeper to securely keep the wristband at place. The loop keeper includes a first protrusion extending from a first inner surface for engaging with one of a plurality of first eyelets of a first wristband and avoiding the first wristband from falling out of the loop keeper to flap around. The loop keeper also includes a second protrusion extending from a second inner surface for engaging with one of a plurality of second eyelets of a second wristband, which the loop keeper is slidably disposed on, so as to provide ease experience for the user from readjust the keeper every time.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The assembly includes a base band element with a body extending from a first end to a second end containing an RFID module. The assembly includes a sizing band element for sizing the assembly to a particular wrist size. The band assembly includes an interlocking fastener that slidably couples the base band element to the sizing band element so as to define a one-piece band with a desired length/size. The interlocking fastener includes a first portion provided on the second end of the base band element body and a second portion on an end of the sizing band element body. The fastener may be a tongue and groove mechanism, with the first portion being a tongue member extending from the base band body and with the second portion being a groove in the end of the sizing band body.

Abstract: A bracelet comprising a body member having a locking aperture provided in one end of the body member and a locking piece formed by the locking aperture; a steel sheet spring fitted such that the proximal end is fastened to the inside of the other end of the body member and the distal end is pushed outwardly by the elasticity of the steel sheet spring; and a locking member in which the rear end is fastened to the distal end of the steel sheet spring, a locking protrusion projecting from the outer surface of the front end and engaging with the locking piece through the locking aperture from the inside to the outside thereof is formed, and a pressing piece projecting from the outer surface of the direct rear portion of the locking protrusion and exposed outwardly from the other end of the body member.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element and a second band element with a planar body extending from a first to a second end. The second band element body is greater in length than the first band element body and includes a hole for receiving the first band element body. The band includes a coupling mechanism that detachably connects an outer sidewall of the first band element body to the inner sidewall of the second band element body, e.g., to allow the two band elements to be selectively disconnected and reassembled without tools. The coupling mechanism includes a first coupling component extending along the outer sidewall of the first band element and a second coupling element extending along the inner sidewall of the second band element such that the two band elements are connected along the periphery of the hole.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element with a raised center or identification member. The band includes a second band element with a body having a loop or lasso at one end defined by an inner surface of a sidewall. The outer sidewall of the raised center member is detachably coupled to the inner surface of the loop-defining sidewall when the center member is received within and captured by the loop such as by a snap detent arrangement. To allow sizing, the second band element includes both an inner band sizing element including the loop-defining sidewall at one of its ends and an outer band sizing element that is detachably coupled to the inner band sizing element. The length of the second band element is defined by the combined length of the inner and outer band sizing elements.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The band includes a first band element with a body extending from a first to a second end, and the body may include a recessed surface or other receiving portion. The wearable band further includes a second band element or slidable extension with a body extending from a first to a second end. To provide user-selectable sizing, the second band element may be selectively positioned by sliding within the receiving portion of the first band element body so as to extend inward a desired engagement depth from the second end of the first band element body. A portion of the second band element body extends outward from the opening of first band element body such that this extending portion and a length of the first band element body combine to define an overall length of the wearable band assembly.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length and with an interchangeable identification (ID) element. The band includes a first band element with a recessed surface for receiving and retaining the identification element such as with its included ID module extending through a hole in the first band element body. To allow user sizing, the wearable band includes a second band element with a planar body extending from a first to a second end. The second band element body is greater in length than the first band element body and includes a hole for receiving the first band element body. The band includes a coupling mechanism that detachably connects an outer sidewall of the first band element body to the inner sidewall of the second band element body, e.g., to allow the two band elements to be selectively disconnected and reassembled without tools.

Abstract: A article of survival equipment for wear by the user comprising a weaved cord portion, a shackle, a tongue and a pin. The shackle is coupled to one end of the cord portion and further includes two apertures disposed at opposing ends of the shackle adapted to receive a pin. The tongue is coupled to the other end of the cord portion and is disposed between the ends of the shackle. The tongue further includes a plurality of apertures for receiving the pin. The pin extends substantially between the shackle apertures when inserted in the shackle and the tongue.

Abstract: In the context of a personal ornament, e.g., a finger ring, in which decorative member(s) is/are attached to cord loop(s), making size(s) of loop(s) variable creates the impression of a lighter grip and improves fit. Finger ring 10 has a cord 11 made of transparent silicone rubber, support member 12, and decorative member 13. Cord 11 is coiled in spiral fashion for two revolutions, forming two loops 11A and 11B. One end 11C of cord 11 is secured to through-hole 12AB of support member 12. A portion near the middle of cord 11 is inserted through through-hole 12CD of support member 12, and is capable of moving within through-hole 12CD. The other end 11D of cord 11 is secured within through-hole 12EF of support member 12. The two loops 11A and 11B of the cord are inserted through decorative member 13, and cord 11 is capable of moving within decorative member 13. Absolute and relative sizes of the two loops 11A and 11B of cord 11 change automatically in correspondence to changes in finger thickness.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lightweight necklace comprising: a ribbon assembly; a strand extending from each end of the ribbon assembly; and an adjustable knot, where the extending strands create the knot. The ribbon assembly includes a plurality of strands of ribbon yarn stitched and knotted together at the ends of the assembly. In one particular embodiment, the ribbon assembly includes five strands of ribbon yarn stitched to create a 14-inch length ribbon assembly. The knot provides a means to adjust the length of the tie strands.

Abstract: A method and system providing for customizable jewelry is disclosed. The customizable jewelry system comprises a plurality of jewelry strands with releasable clasps at each end and multi-connector findings. The multi-connector findings are connectors with multiple loops capable of being a connecting joint to the jewelry strands. The multi-connector findings are especially suitable for multiple layer necklaces and belts. The opposing ends of each jewelry strand can be releasably secured to one another and to multi-connector findings to form various structures suitable for use as necklace, bracelet, chain belt, or other component jewelry accessory. Each strand can be repeatedly utilized in multiple jewelry item combinations. Each strand within a jewelry structure can also be removed or substituted with another strand to achieve any configuration that is desirable for a particular outfit and setting.

Abstract: A wearable band with an adjustable size or length. The assembly includes a base band element with a body extending from a first end to a second end containing an RFID module. The assembly includes a sizing band element for sizing the assembly to a particular wrist size. The band assembly includes an interlocking fastener that slidably couples the base band element to the sizing band element so as to define a one-piece band with a desired length/size. The interlocking fastener includes a first portion provided on the second end of the base band element body and a second portion on an end of the sizing band element body. The fastener may be a tongue and groove mechanism, with the first portion being a tongue member extending from the base band body and with the second portion being a groove in the end of the sizing band body.

Abstract: An adjustable bracelet includes an adjustable main portion adapted to be worn on a human wrist. An electronic charity identifier is attached to the main portion. The bracelet is adapted to hold a dispensing lever of a fluid dispensing pump in an open position.

Abstract: A device for allowing jewelry strands to be added or replaced comprising two interlocking arms, two rotating members, two knobs, and a shaft. The closed end of each interlocking arm is attached to a rotating member, the shaft extends through an aperture in each rotating member, and a knob is situated on each end of the shaft. The two interlocking arms are roughly the same size. The interlocking arms are positioned one on top of the other such that they form a closed shape when the interlocking arms are in a closed position. The rotating members rotate about the shaft, thereby causing the interlocking arms to rotate relative to one another.

Abstract: An article of jewelry comprising plates having indicia embossed or engraved thereon mounted on a shoelace type cord. The ends of the cord have rigid rectangular aglets and are threaded through rectangular holes at opposed ends of the plates. The generally flat cord cannot twist or fold within the rectangular holes in the plates so the plates always maintain the same orientation and position on the cord, allowing them to be arranged and displayed sequentially. The article of jewelry can be tied to itself using one hand because the cord is provided with a rectangular button hole of the same size as the rectangular holes in the plates. The rigid rectangular aglet is passed through the button hole, under the cord and back through the created loop and pulled tight, thereby tying the cord to itself using only one hand.

Abstract: The invention concerns a bracelet or wristband of adjustable length, including: a first link including two ends defining first and second fixed points of attachment, a stopper including a through hole that allows the link to pass therethrough, releasable means for locking the link in the hole, and means for securing one of the ends of the link, and a securing element associated with the first point of attachment, the link being on one hand secured to the stopper by the second fixed point of attachment using the securing means, and on the other hand engaged in the hole so as to be able to be locked at a variable locking point, by the locking means, or to slide therein when the locking means are released, and the link further comprising, a variable point of attachment located substantially half-way between the second fixed point of attachment and the variable locking point (42).

Abstract: Wristlet clasp allowing the wristlet length to be finely adjusted. A wheel accessible through an opening in the cover can be made to rotate to screw or unscrew a threaded rod so as to move an end of the wristlet relative to the cover.

Abstract: A clasp including a base connected to at least one end of looping member which has an upper opening at an upper side thereof and which has a front opening at a front side thereof; an arm which is supported by the edge of the base in a rotatable manner, which has a nail portion at a rear end thereof; and which makes up a loop by closing the arm; a push button embedded within the upper opening of the base and communicated with the nail portion of the arm; a first spring which applies a resilient force to the push button in the direction that the push button is projecting outwardly; and a second spring which applies a resilient force to the arm in the direction of opening the arm.

Abstract: A jewelry structure adapted to hang jewelry elements on both the front and back of a wearer.

Abstract: A modular toy bracelet that is easily constructable, interchangeable, lightweight, adjustable, and fashionable. The bracelet comprises a plurality of connecting cases, with each connecting case having a top portion and a bottom portion removably attached at the back side to form an interior cavity when the top portion is closed over the bottom portion. The bracelet is preferably used to hold in the interior cavity articles such as cosmetics, edibles, and other small items. The bracelet comprises a plurality of connecting cases that are removably and interchangeably linked together on the lateral sides. The plurality of connecting cases with different shapes, colors, and designs may be interchangeably and hingedly linked to each other by mixing and matching the different connecting cases.

Abstract: In a permanent magnet ring (1) formed by arranging a plurality of unit permanent magnets (21a, 21b, 21c . . . ), each of a plurality of the unit permanent magnets (21a, 21b, 21c . . . ) is formed in a circular cylindrical shape having a circular cross section, and a predetermined number of the unit permanent magnets are magnetically attracted each other so as to form a ring shape having a predetermined size, so that it is possible for the user to easily structure the permanent magnet ring (1) having a desired size, and it is possible to attach as many the unit permanent magnets as possible so as to be able to apply proper magnetic force lines to each part of the body.

Abstract: An earring support device constructed of a single length of flexible metal wire or plastic line bent back upon itself at both ends and clasped or otherwise fasted so as to form a large loop at one end and one or more smaller loops at the other end.

Abstract: The invention concerns a bracelet or wristband of adjustable length, including: a first link including two ends defining first and second fixed points of attachment, a stopper including a through hole that allows the link to pass therethrough, releasable means for locking the link in the hole, and means for securing one of the ends of the link, and a securing element associated with the first point of attachment, the link being on one hand secured to the stopper by the second fixed point of attachment using the securing means, and on the other hand engaged in the hole so as to be able to be locked at a variable locking point, by the locking means, or to slide therein when the locking means are released, and the link further comprising, a variable point of attachment located substantially half-way between the second fixed point of attachment and the variable locking point (42).

Abstract: A wearable book. A wearable book, comprising a plurality of pages and a loop adapted for encircling a body portion for attaching said pages to the body, is provided. The pages are preferably bound together at one edge and preferably are of substantially the same size. The loop preferably has at least about 50% elasticity for stretching the loop over a second body portion such as a hand having a substantially larger circumference than a first body portion such as a wrist, and thereafter snugly circumferentially contacting the first body portion to secure the book in place.

Abstract: An adjustable band ring includes a band formed by threading a thread through a thread hole provided on each of individual jewel or precious metal beads, a chain-like band formed by joining individual sub-chains made of precious metals, or a ring band formed by joining individual sub-rings made of precious metals. The ring further includes a band retainer on the base end of the band for holding the side of a middle portion of the band that has completely been wound around the finger, a hook on the forward end of the band extending beyond the band retainer and adapted to engage the side of the middle portion of the band, and a plurality of individual jewel beads mounted on the side of the band retainer that will be located on the upper face side of the band retainer when the ring is mounted on the finger.

Abstract: A connector for accessories, etc, which is mounted on both ends of a long linear member, the connector comprising a male part and a female part, which can fit into and separate from each other, and wherein when the male part is inserted into the female part from a fitting opening, magnetic attraction causes a change in the positional relationship between the male part and the female part with the result that the male part cannot pass through the fitting opening of the female part.

Abstract: An arrangement of stringed magnetic and non-magnetic beads worn as a necklace or bracelet in loops about the user resulting from contact together of the magnetic beads and the size of the loops determined by the number of non-magnetic beads therebetween, in which the stringing is according to facilitated counting of a uniform ratio of the non-magnetic to the magnetic beads rather than tedious counting of individual beads.

Abstract: Jewelry items such as rings, bracelets and necklaces are made of pop beads of novel construction. The structure includes a spherical body from which extends an elongate, flexible neck having a ball formed on its distal free end. The neck is sufficiently long to enable it to be formed into a loop so that it can be press fit into a socket formed on the opposite side of the same spherical body, and the neck is adapted to receive a plurality of strung beads. In a second embodiment, the neck is not long enough to enable it to be formed into a loop, but is sufficiently long to receive at least on strung bead so that Jewelry items are made by connecting a plurality of the pop beads together with strung beads being positioned between the respective spherical of the pop beads.

Abstract: A pivoting clasp assembly for pearl necklace jewelry comprises a single strand of pearls, a main decorated section of the clasp, a rear face opposing the front face, and a pivoting arm mounted on a pivot hinge joint on the rear face of the main section. The clasp pivots from an open position to a closed position, and the pivoting arm comprises a pearl retaining eye and a retaining hook extending from the pearl retaining eye. A user depressing the resiliently depressible lever opens the pivoting arm. The pivoting arm may receive two strands of pearls that may be retained in closed position. Changing retaining areas and portions allow a user to make many customizable configurations and styles to suit fashion needs.

Abstract: A linkable jewelry device is provided having a male clasp section and a female clasp section at opposite ends of the device. The female clasp section is adjustably retainable by the male clasp section. A plurality of longitudinal inflexible sections are interleaved with and hingedly attached to a plurality of connectors. When the female clasp section is retained by the male clasp section, the device forms an adjustable ring for wearing on a finger. The male clasp section has a number of notches into which a crossbar of the female clasp section may be selectively retained. The ring may be adjusted in diameter depending upon which notch retains the crossbar. Two or more devices may be linked together to form an adjustable-length bracelet or necklace.

Abstract: A jewelry finding is provided as a neck accessory that enables a flexible bracelet to be worn as a necklace. Locket clasps are provided at the ends of the neck accessory to provide secure interconnection of the bracelet clasp ends with the neck accessory, while at the same time enclosing and obscuring from view the connection hardware. According to an alternate embodiment, a universal approach is implemented that uses flexible loops to modify clasp ends of most any flexible bracelet to be connectible to fastening posts in the locket clasps of the neck accessory.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for selectively adjusting the hanging length of a piece of chain jewelry. A clasp casing is provided that receives the clasp ends of a piece of chain jewelry. Within the clasp casing is a matrix of posts. The clasp ends of the jewelry chain are fed into the casing and attached to separate posts. If attached to posts near the ends of the casing, the hanging length of the jewelry chain can be increased because the casing adds length to the jewelry chain. By wrapping the jewelry chain around the posts inside the casing, the hanging length of the jewelry chain can be dramatically shortened.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for a bangle having a main body shaped in an openable loop. The inner side of the bangle is worn against the skin of the wearer. The bangle is a discontinuous loop having a first end and a second end engageable with the first end to thereby close the loop of the main body. The locking mechanism includes a bar attached transversely across the first end of the main body on the inner side; the bar has a front edge and a rear edge. A tongue is provided attached at a fixed end to the second end of the main body projecting from the second end, the tongue having a raised detent portion at a free end opposite the fixed end. Alternatively, the bangle is circular in cross-section and the locking mechanism is disposed in the interior of the bangle.

Abstract: A single-piece connector which can be used as a clasp for jewelry items using cord type construction with a stop element, whereas the cord being any and all materials having the flexible proprieties of cord (i.e. string, rope, monofilament, leather, etc.). A connector consisting of a section as means to anchor the connector to one end of the jewelry item and a series of spaced coils to receive, secure, and release the second loose end along with methods for adjusting the length of the jewelry items using the connector.