Abstract: The invention is a device for providing a clamping force about a connection end of elastomeric hose and tubing. The device includes a heat shrinkable polymer, having a diameter reducing release temperature, formed into a band. The band has a first nominal inside diameter defined as the diameter the band assumes upon being shrunk in free space and being smaller than the outside diameter of the connection end of the elastomeric hose and tubing. The band has a second nominal inside diameter defined as the diameter the band assumes upon being shrunk about the connection end of the elastomeric hose and tubing. The band also has a third nominal inside diameter defined as the diameter of the band after polymer orientation and before shrinkage, the third diameter being greater than the outside diameter of the connection end of the elastomeric hose and tubing. The first inside diameter is no greater than about 80 percent of the third inside diameter.

Abstract: The invention is an improved fluid transport conduit coupling having a substantially tubular stem defining a central bore terminating at each end in first and second perimeter openings, a conduit insert including a body member having opposing first and second portions and adapted to receive said stem, and latching means for limiting axial movement between the stem and the conduit insert upon sealing engagement of the stem and the conduit insert. The improvement includes a latch support means disposed on the stem and at least one disengagement slot proximate the first perimeter opening, and at least one radially deflectable locking beam extending substantially axially from the first portion of the body member conduit insert.

Abstract: An externally propelled load transporting apparatus that transports a uniformly distributed, non-uniformly distributed, or shifting load upon a cushion of air by first directing pressurized air into at least two plenum chambers and then through at least one flexible perforated sheet, wherein each plenum is substantially, independently pressurized.