Odd and strange inventions and things thread

I was looking for something to post in the "Post a beautiful and artsy pic" thread and came across the Snow Cone Mask picture.
Thought it might be interesting to see what others come across as odd and strange inventions and things.


Snow Cone Mask, 1939, Montreal


Introducing the Snowstorm Mask, a plastic cone shield designed to protect Montrealer’s delicate faces from the ravages of icy Quebec snowstorms – developed in 1939. Apparently one of History’s strangest inventions.

I think this is one of the best inventions of all time. Much better than sliced bread.

And it might be useful in Montreal in the winter, too!

http://colitz.com/site/4634021/4634021.htm



The present invention is directed to a release mechanism for releasing an object when the temperature reaches a predetermined release temperature. The release mechanism may be incorporated into a novelty "brass monkey" to "emasculate" the monkey when exposed to a predetermined temperature.

This looks like it would be more fun than a regular tent,
but not nearly as private.