Abstract: A convertible platform and shelf apparatus for a van like vehicle having a compartment comprising a frame strut assembly connected to the inside walls of the compartment and a plurality of utility shelf assemblies that have a plurality of hinged together planar members selectively positionable in rigid coplanar relationship. The shelf assemblies are detachably connectable to the frame strut assembly to form utility areas usable as tables, beds, storage areas or for personnel back support. Retractable leg assemblies are provided for partial support when the shelf assemblies are used as tables. Also provided is a platform assembly that selectively folds into a reversable facing seat or into an elevated platform to serve as a bed or the like.

Abstract: An improved pumping apparatus featuring a rotating frame having lever-actuated pump assemblies located thereabout. The levers are weighted at their distal ends and pivot about fixed fulcrum points as the frame rotates. The proximal ends of the levers are spur gears that engage and reciprocate a pump rod of each pump assembly via a rack gear portion of the pump rod. Pistons disposed in pump cylinders are connected to ends of the pump rods, and these pistons apply pumping force to a fluid, the fluid being communicated to the pump cylinders via conduit means that communicate with external fluid sources through an annulus pipe, and through an interdisposed inner pipe, these pipes also serving as the axle support for the frame.

Abstract: An improved brake control apparatus automatically engaging the park brakes of a vehicle when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to the off position and automatically disengaging the park brakes of a vehicle when the vehicle ignition switch is turned to the on position. The brake control apparatus is constructed to be utilized in cooperation with an automobile park brakes and with the park brakes of a trailer or the like, for example, the brake control apparatus being installable as an accessory item or as original equipment.

Abstract: The present invention includes an improved tool particularly useful for effecting the removal of a shock absorber from the upper structural member of an automobile frame, having a base member and an insert member slidably disposed within an opening through one end of the base member. One end of the base member is retainingly disposed over the nut securing the threaded extension of a shock absorber to the upper structural member and the end of the insert member disposed within the base member opening is retainingly connected to a head portion of the threaded extension, the base member being held in a stationary position thereby securing the nut in a stationary position while the insert member is rotated thereby rotating the shock absorber via the head portion connected thereto. The tool of the present invention thus allows the shock absorber to be rotated to unthread the connection between the shock absorber and the nut which secures the shock absorber to the automobile upper structural member.

Abstract: An improved compacter for flattening or compacting metal cans and the like wherein the can is initially positioned between a pair of spaced gripping members, the gripping members being subsequently moved toward each other compacting the can disposed therebetween. The gripping members grippingly engage the can and secure the can in a stationary position with respect to each of the gripping members and one of the gripping members is initially rotated as the gripping members are moved toward each other thereby twisting and weakening the structural integrity of the can to facilitate the compacting thereof.