Abstract: The disclosure relates to a gripping apparatus, for use in connecting to a pipe wherein the pipe defines an inside radius, the apparatus having at least one discrete gripping device mounted on a body, wherein the body is a wedge cone; an outer surface on each of the at least one discrete gripping device, wherein the outer surface has a transition surface defined by a means for reducing any sharp transition point; a collective actuation-retraction mechanism connected to the wedge cone and to each of the at least one discrete gripping device; and a collective extension-retractable mechanism connected to each of at least one discrete gripping device. The disclosure further relates to an alternative exemplary embodiment wherein the gripping apparatus further includes a spring, wherein the spring pre-biases each of the at least one discrete gripping device beyond the inside radius of the pipe to instantly grip the inside radius.

Abstract: A gripping apparatus for use in gripping a pipe, for holding forces, or restraining relative movement. The pipe defines an inside radius. The gripping apparatus has an outer surface where the outer surface defines a transition surface or a curve. In certain embodiments the transition surface or curve has a radius less than or equal to the inside radius of the pipe.

Abstract: A gripping apparatus for use in gripping a pipe, for holding forces, or restraining relative movement. The pipe defines an inside radius. The gripping apparatus has an outer surface where the outer surface defines a transition surface or a curve. In certain embodiments the transition surface or curve has a radius less than or equal to the inside radius of the pipe.

Abstract: A blind rack for storing a plurality of blinds has a support frame including a horizontal frame. A plurality of load bearing arms are connected to the horizontal frame, and the plurality of blinds to be stored on the blind rack are indexable with respect to the horizontal frame.