Abstract: A flotation device that converts an existing flexible round foam flotation piece into a flotation aid for recreational and/or exercise purposes. The flotation device is water resistant, lightweight, flexible and easy to carry and store. The round flotation piece, commonly known as a noodle, is inserted through a sleeve in the flotation device wherein the floating seat then takes shape. Due to the flexible characteristics of the invention, a wide range of body shapes and sizes provide a comfortable and stable flotation aid that allows the user to remain mostly submerged in the water with unrestricted movement of the arms and legs. In addition to a floating chair, other configurations utilizing the round flotation piece are possible by utilizing a reconfigured attachment device. For example, a flotation device can be made to form a floating raft by using a plurality of sleeves to mate with three round flotation pieces.

Abstract: A water profiling apparatus having a streamlined body with a traction drive capable of repeatedly profiling along a moored or suspended cable or wire, for transporting sensing and sampling equipment through a body of water, such as an ocean, lake or river. The water profiling apparatus is able to operate unattended on a pre-programmed schedule over long periods of time, profiling to full ocean depth, with the option of changing its schedule depending on the observations it makes or operating situations encountered.

Abstract: A grip assist apparatus designed to strengthen the weight lifter's grip and prevent a weight training injury by providing support to the wrist and hand while protecting the palm of the hand. The grip assist also allows the lifter free movement of his hands when he is not actually gripping the weight bar. The apparatus features a flexible gripping portion that covers the palm of the lifter. The gripping portion provides a non-slip surface that is tacky to the touch. A thicker, flexible top end of the gripping portion comes in direct contact with the weight bar and can be easily positioned between the bar and lifter's hand or partially positioned around the bar by the tips of the fingers of the same hand, depending on the lifter's preference.

Abstract: An insect proof garment capable of being worn to fully or partially protect the head while fully protecting the torso and arms utilizing a zipper system running around the face cover where it joins the hood. The supportive effect of pleating the top of the face cover section and darting the hood top results in maximum protection and minimum visual interference, which is further minimized by use of a darker color fabric in the face cover than the rest of the garment. An integral pouch provides transport and storage of the garment plus a pocket when garment is worn.

Abstract: A less than lethal chemical apparatus that can be fitted to conventional handguns and rifles without requiring major modification of the weapons and yet fits within the profile of the weapons framework. The invention features a chassis containing a chemical module that can house MACE or other incapacitating chemical agents such as tear gas that can be mounted in various positions, depending on the weapon selected. For a handgun, the chassis mounts on the front face of the muzzle. The weapons factory installed hand grips are replaced by modified hand grips that contain electronic controls, water proof activation switches, and a power source. The hand grips are wired to the chassis via a flexible internal circuits. The apparatus can also be activated at a distance from the firearm using an infrared activation control.

Abstract: A method of producing a flux-cored brazing composition for brazing aluminum that can be produced in lengths ranging from 500 to 10,000 feet long. The flux, preferably a finely powdered potassium fluoroaluminate complex, is deposited in an extremely small channel of aluminum filler material using a volumetric feeder to ensure an even distribution of flux to metal alloy.

Abstract: An improved shackle apparatus that introduces improvements to the basic shackle design to allow for easy release under load, a high strength to weight ratio, and low wear on sliding surfaces. Easier release under heavy load is accomplished with a nonsymmetrical trigger hole design. The contour of the trigger hole pushes the fid to the side of the trigger, thus producing greater leverage on the trigger that would have been applied with the same amount of force as originally applied to the fid. Internal design of the improved shackle apparatus has incorporated the trigger spring in the shank resulting in a simplified design while providing for a high strength to weight ratio. Likewise, a reinforced trigger pivot pin hole improves tensile strength and increases the bearing contact area of the trigger. Low wear on sliding surfaces is aided by a new "cam action" hook design that allows the rope to roll over the hook area instead of sliding.