Abstract: A plant securing apparatus is disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention provide an elongated portion having multiple plant-securing loops attached to the elongated portion. The elongated portion is comprised of a flexible material, such as woven nylon. During use, the elongated portion is attached to a stake or post, and the plant-securing loops support a plant, such as a tomato vine. Another embodiment uses wire fasteners to secure the plant to the stake.

Abstract: An attachable wing for an aircraft is disclosed. The attachable wing is configured to mount to the underside of the fuselage of an aircraft, such as a rotary wing aircraft (e.g., a helicopter) or a fixed wing aircraft. The attachable wing produces additional lift, which results in an increase in speed, and consequently, an increase in fuel efficiency and payload capacity. In some embodiments, the attachable wing is retractable to facilitate takeoffs and landings. Additionally, the apparatus may be made of a bulletproof or anti-ballistic material to protect the aircraft from incoming fire or crash damage. The airfoil apparatus provides additional lift, allowing for greater fuel efficiency and range of the aircraft on which it is installed.

Abstract: An improved MIG welding pliers is disclosed, which allows faster and easier removal of spatter form a MIG welding nozzle, thereby improving welder productivity. Embodiments of the present invention provide a rounded file on the outer surface of each of the pinchers of the pliers. In one embodiment, each pincher has a different file surface. The rounded file surface provides for improved spatter removal, and eliminates the need for waxes and spatter control products which degrade the contact tip and nozzle, hastening the need for their replacement. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention increase the efficiency of a MIG welding operation, as less time is spent removing spatter from nozzles, and thus, more time is available for welding. Furthermore, by avoiding the use of waxes, costs are reduced since nozzles and contact tips do not need to be replaced as frequently.

Abstract: A portable ballistic shield is disclosed. The portable ballistic shield is contoured to conform to an individual's body and may be integrated with a rucksack and frame to provide protection to the user's back and torso while still allowing the user substantially unobstructed access to all parts of the rucksack. The portable ballistic shield may also provide rigidity for the rucksack, eliminating the need for a rucksack frame. The portable ballistic shield may also comprise a shape allowing for the user to concurrently utilize an assault rifle or other firearm. During times of hostility, the user may deploy the shield from the rucksack in a minimal amount of time in order to protect the user from oncoming gunfire or shrapnel.

Abstract: A panoramic image management system and method is disclosed. The system provides for improved calibration of a 360 degree panoramic camera, as well as improved means for manipulating the images, and correlating images from conventional video cameras with the images from the 360 degree panoramic camera. The system also provides means for archiving and retrieving stored images. The present invention contributes to an improved video surveillance system.

Abstract: An improved camera for the acquisition of panoramic images is disclosed. The camera comprises a convex photochromic reflector directed towards an image capture element. Multiple incoming light sensors around the perimeter of the camera detect strong incoming light and cause the activation of a corresponding UV light. The UV light in turn activates the photochromic effect on a particular region of the photochromic reflector that corresponds to an area of strong incident light. The photochromic reflector then darkens in that area, providing compensation for a scene that has a wide range of lighting conditions. Therefore, the camera compensates for strong lighting indoors as well as outdoors.

Abstract: A panoramic scene storage device comprises a convex reflector mounted within a housing. The housing has photochromic properties, such that it darkens when exposed to ultraviolet light. A capture device, preferably a CCD camera, is used to capture the 360 degree images from the convex reflector. The photochromic housing improves the performance of the capture system, especially in situations when bright sunlight is present in the captured scene.