Abstract: An external brass seal for a floatation device includes a body having an upper portion, a lower portion, at least one aperture, and a seal. The aperture extends through the body and is adapted to transfer fluid into the upper portion and out of the lower portion.

Abstract: A computer-implemented system and method are provided for adapting the spending limit of a debit instrument in a networked computer system, particularly a daily spending limit. The method comprises determining or receiving notification of whether an electronic request to approve a debit instrument transaction was declined for exceeding a withdrawl limit or a spending limit, determining transactional risk associated with the debit instrument transaction using computer-implemented criteria, and adapting the spending limit of the debit instrument after the determination of transactional risk. Computer-implemented criteria are used to assess the transactional risk associated with a particular debit instrument transaction.

Abstract: A releasable connector for a pair of tensioned elements, such as straps sorting a parachuted load, has a cylindrical body separable at a diametrical plane into a pair of blocks each adapted for connection of the block to one of the elements. A helical groove is disposed about the body and is wound in one circumferential direction with the majority of an endless line of para-aramid fiber. The line is tensioned to hold the blocks in engagement so that the elements are joined by the connector. The ends of the groove return helically in the opposite circumferential direction, and the remainder of the line is wrapped in this opposite direction about the majority of the line. The body has a pair of recesses extending radially inwardly from the groove and individually receiving a pair of pyrotechnic line cutters. Each cutter extends into the groove and, at the groove, has an eye through which the line extends for severing by either cutter to release the blocks from engagement and disconnect the tensioned elements.