Abstract: A three-point installation bracket for converting a two-point seat belt system included factory in a convertible vehicle to a three-point seat belt system without requiring modifications/changes to the existing vehicle frame. The disclosure also includes methods for installing the bracket, as well as kits including same.

Abstract: A three-point installation bracket for converting a two-point seat belt system included factory in a convertible vehicle to a three-point seat belt system without requiring modifications/changes to the existing vehicle frame. The disclosure also includes methods for installing the bracket, as well as kits including same.

Abstract: The 3-Point Convertible Seat Belt Anchor Assembly is unique because the bracket's design facilitates the ability to mount a 3-point retractable seat belt system. The webbing of the seat belt will rest higher on the shoulder of the passenger(s), creating a safer angle across the torso which will restrain the passenger(s) in the event of a vehicular collision.

Abstract: A device and method to accelerate solid metal slugs to high speeds. In one embodiment, a large electric current is passed through an outer cylindrical metal tube enclosing in part a metal slug, a central electrode, and a conducting tail coupled at opposite ends to the. metal slug and the central electrode. Electromagnetic forces accelerate the metal slug to a point high enough to mechanically separate the conducting tail. On separation, a plasma is generated by the passage of electric current though a gas produced by vaporization of the conducting tail and nearby materials. An insulator enclosed within the tube prevents the plasma from shorting to the outer tube until the current flow has produced a sufficient magnetic field to contain the plasma. The metal slug is then accelerated to high speed by a combination of electromagnetic forces and mechanical pressure from the hot gas through which the electric current is passing.

Abstract: A device and method to accelerate solid metal slugs to high speeds. In one embodiment, a large electric current is passed through an outer cylindrical metal tube enclosing in part a metal slug, a central electrode, and a conducting tail coupled at opposite ends to the. metal slug and the central electrode. Electromagnetic forces accelerate the metal slug to a point high enough to mechanically separate the conducting tail. On separation, a plasma is generated by the passage of electric current though a gas produced by vaporization of the conducting tail and nearby materials. An insulator enclosed within the tube prevents the plasma from shorting to the outer tube until the current flow has produced a sufficient magnetic field to contain the plasma. The metal slug is then accelerated to high speed by a combination of electromagnetic forces and mechanical pressure from the hot gas through which the electric current is passing.

Abstract: A device and method which combine electromagnetic acceleration with acceleration by high-pressure gases derived from chemical energy to achieve high slug speeds.

Abstract: A lift-turn valve actuator is provided for tapered plug valve and slip assemblies that accomplishes vertical movement of the plug and retraction of the slips from sealing engagement with the valve body prior to rotation of the plug member 90.degree. to its open position. The valve actuator assembly includes inner fitting inner and outer sleeve members each having cam slots formed therein with the cam follower of a valve actuating stem being engaged with both cam slots. Rotation of the outer sleeve member with respect to the static inner sleeve imparts initial vertical movement to the actuator stem, valve stem and valve plug for slip retraction as an initial component of movement followed by simultaneous rotational and upward movement of the plug member until the plug member has rotated 90.degree. to its open position.