Abstract: Embodiments include a loading rack apparatus mountable on a vehicle having a hoist motor, an extendable horizontal trolley to permit a load to be lifted with the hoist, moved horizontally into a vehicle, and lowered. A variety of embodiment trolley drive mechanisms are disclosed including but not limited to a lead screw trolley drive. An arcuate embodiment crossbar member permits more stable positioning of items on the apparatus's topmost surface. A method for safely moving a load is disclosed.

Abstract: A tool positioning apparatus permitting tool adjustment in two planes, the apparatus generally including an articulating joint apparatus and a resistance thread mechanism for rotatably positioning a tool about a central axis. In one embodiment the joint includes two halves rotatable about a central axis. The two halves are positionable through use of a push-button release that disengages a gear member and permits movement of the two halves relative to each other. In one embodiment, a gear has teeth disposed on one surface, two opposing substantially straight sides, and two opposing substantially curved sides, with a triangular protrusion mounted on each of the gear's two straight portions. The thread resistance mechanism utilizes an elastomeric threading in a narrowing taper.

Abstract: An apparatus for efficient heating liquids or gases comprising of a transformer having a primary and secondary winding wherein the secondary winding forms a shorted heating element having a resistance in the range of 1.6730 ??·cm to 185 ??·cm, permitting liquid or gas to pass therethrough, whereby the liquid or gas is heated and heat transfer may be optionally facilitated through use of disc filters disposed within said heating element promoting turbulent flow which aids in mixing and more efficient thermal transfer. In an alternative embodiment, the heating element is not the secondary winding but another portion of the circuit on the alienation side of the transformer. The heating element may be comprised of a variety of sizes, shapes, and materials. In an alternative embodiment, the alienation side of the transformer may have a reverse winding which cancels reactive currents generated in the secondary winding.

Abstract: An apparatus adapted for use as a therapeutic tricycle; said apparatus including in part, a specialized lever system permitting optimal rider center of mass positioning; an optional steering lock out system; an embodiment prescribing optimized apparatus dimensions based upon rider weight to enhance apparatus stability; an improved chain management system; an improved wheelie bar system; a shock absorbing system; the combination permitting enhanced apparatus stability and ability to perform a varied array of maneuvers providing exercise, therapeutic, and recreational advantages which particularly benefit disabled children. A method of exercising tendons and/or heel cords using a specialized adaptive tricycle.

Abstract: A remote indoor kitchen coupled to existing water and drainage resources where the water and drainage lines may be uncoupled utilizing quick-connect couplers and the remaining fast remove portion of the line is removed. Water leakage is prevented through shutoff valves upstream and downstream of the fast remove portion. Optionally, couplers containing integrally disposed, one-way valves in the female members, are located at either end of the fast remove portion of the line to prevent water leakage. Preferably, the supply tubing is resilient and predisposed to coil making removal simpler. Water drainage is accomplished through valveless couplers and preferably by assisted by pump. The kitchen assembly includes a frame with preferably collapsible lower legs, at least one sink, a planar surface, storage drawers, a faucet, a spray nozzle, a backsplash with an electrical outlet. Optionally the sink includes a garbage disposal, mounted oven, and a protective plastic overlay.

Abstract: An illumination system includes a light source having multiple solid state sources, such as LEDs, and emits light of a color temperature of about 5500° K. The system further includes a flexible optical cable formed by a centrally located optical fiber and five corresponding peripheral optical fibers distributed around the center fiber and a sheath for maintaining the optical fibers in a predetermined spatial relationship, with each of the solid state sources is butt-coupled to one end of a single optical fiber. The solid state sources are thermally coupled to a cooling system, which may include fans or other active cooling elements.