Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for allocating current (20) from a distributor (22), having a maximum rated current, among a plurality of load circuits (24), including a variable load circuit (24?) that benefits from a full load current allocation but is operable at a lower current allocation. The invention provides for measuring the instantaneous current reserve of the distributor (22) as the maximum rated current of the distributor (22) less the instantaneous current flowing from the distributor (22) to the plurality of load circuits (24), and limiting the instantaneous current of the variable load circuit (24?) to the full load current of the variable load circuit (24?) if the instantaneous current reserve is greater than zero, and the sum of the full load current of the variable load circuit (24?) plus the instantaneous current reserve, if the instantaneous current reserve is less than or equal to zero.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to brass-wind mouthpieces (20), and in particular brass-wind mouthpieces (20) configured for improved performance and endurance. One aspect of the invention provides that the lateral shoulders (38) of the mouthpiece (20) rim (24), which respectively would face the corners of the musician's lips when the mouthpiece (20) is in use, slope outwardly away from the proximate end of the mouthpiece (20) cup (22).

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for accumulating energy from an oscillating water column by transducing the water column oscillations to compress a fluid and accumulating the compressed fluid.

Abstract: A sphygmomanometer having an elongated tube, an air chamber coupled to a first end of the tube, and a liquid chamber coupled to a second end of the tube. The liquid chamber is partially filled with fluid and is couplable to a source of external pressure. An offset region located proximate the second end of the tube has a significantly reduced cross-sectional area so as to reduce the effect of fluid level changes on pressure measurement accuracy. At least one ventilation valve is coupled to the elongated tube and the air chamber and is operative to vent the elongated tube and the air chamber to atmosphere.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for attaching a pontoon to a watercraft. There is provided an a first quick-coupler adapted to be connected to the pontoon and a second quick-coupler, complemental with the first quick-coupler. adapted to be connected to the hull, wherein the first and second quick-couplers together have at least three of the following: (i) lugs that close back on themselves to form one of an open loop and a closed loop, (ii) multiple lugs arranged in a triangle, (iii) both a fixed hook and a latch, (iv) two hooks that engage the same lug and (v) two non-parallel hooks that engage the same lug.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a low-impact, time-efficient way to exercise both the cardio-respiratory system and the muscular system, particularly the abdominal and back muscles. The exerciser uses his muscles to oscillate a pivoted carriage within a frame. In one embodiment, the exerciser pedals a crank to pump hydraulic fluid through a hydraulic circuit to a hydraulic cylinder connected between the carriage and the frame so as to urge the carriage to oscillate with respect to the frame. A limit sensor detects when the carriage is positioned at one extreme of its oscillation and signals the hydraulic circuit to reverse the flow of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinder.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for stabilizing an optical tube on a base wherein a tension adjuster adapted to adjust the tension between the optical tube and sideboard of the base is secured between a the optical tube and the sideboard. By turning the tension adjuster, tension can be added or reduced to stabilize the optical tube.