Abstract: An apparatus includes a primary device, a secondary device, and an umbilical system. The umbilical system comprises an umbilical linking the primary device and the secondary device, and a control system configured alter a directionality of the umbilical during deployment of the secondary device away from the primary device by at least controlling a configuration of a shape memory material comprising the umbilical.

Abstract: A simple and relatively lightweight personal fire escape assembly device attaches to the non-ground floor of a patio of a high rise building and provides an easy escape route to the patio of the floor below in the event of emergency. Device includes three stackable annular ring elements, namely, a cover, a hollow center ring and a bottom disc. The center ring and bottom disc attach to the top and bottom, respectively, of a ladder and a series of chain elements. The hollow center ring also attaches to a hinge bracket which connects to the transverse piping part of U-shaped piping made of two vertical pipes and a transverse horizontal pipe where the vertical pipes are fastened to the floor of the patio. In stored position the device other than the piping hangs down from the piping by means of the hinge bracket. In an emergency the user rotates the device 270 degrees so that the hinge bracket of the device rests on the railing of the patio and the rings extend beyond the railing. User removes the cover ring.