Abstract: An apparatus for calculating fluid flow in a channel including a very low profile probe which detects fluid depth in the channel; a mechanism for measuring average fluid velocity in the channel; a mechanism for correcting the detected fluid depth based upon the measured average fluid velocity to account for drawdown; and a mechanism for calculating average flow rate based upon the average fluid velocity measurement and the corrected fluid depth value. The probe has a height to width ratio of less than 0.52.

Abstract: A quick connect/disconnect coupler has telescoping male and female members which engage along an axial dimension in response to an engaging force. The members are secured in their engaged position by a spring which mechanically couples to the respective members and limits their relative axial displacement. Upon release of the spring, the members readily disconnect by separating in response to a disengaging force. A method for use is also disclosed.

Abstract: A washable window shade in which all non-washable components are readily removable. The washable window shade includes a main shade member made of a decorative, washable fabric such as silk, cotton, or a natural or synthetic blend. Stiffener members provided on the main shade member to maintain it flat are either removable or provided in a washable form. A drawstring assembly for raising and lowering the main shade member is also removable, as is a rigid bottom member. All removable parts can be conveniently removed before washing and conveniently re-assembled after washing, all without the use of tools.

Abstract: A garment folding apparatus and method which facilitates the neat and uniform folding of garments such as shirts and the like. The apparatus has a simplified structure including a substantially rigid main body portion which serves as a folding guide, and an upper supporting portion which facilitates storage and handling of the apparatus. The apparatus may be fabricated of a thermoplastic material such as acrylic, or alternatively the main body portion may be formed of aromatic cedar while the supporting portion is formed of metal. In use, the apparatus is removed from the folded garment after folding operations are complete, so that it may be re-used time and again.

Abstract: An ergonomic support device having a platform supported by a telescoping support arm which is in turn adjustably supported on a vertical post. The vertical post may be clamped to a desk, table, or the like so that the platform is elevated relative to a desk top, for example. The connection of the platform to the support arm provides for a wide range of adjustment of the platform, including tilting, pivoting, and back and forth translation. The device also provides for vertical and pivotal adjustment of the support arm relative to the vertical post, which further increases the range of adjustability of the platform. The adjustable platform supports reading materials and the like so that a user can stand while reading, writing, or performing other routine desk work, thus enhancing dynamic movement of a user who would otherwise be sitting in a sedentary position for lengthy periods.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for a vehicle which includes dead bolt mechanism(s) for securing the door(s) of the vehicle such that no working parts of the mechanisms are accessible from the exterior or interior of the vehicle. The dead bolt mechanisms are actuated remotely by a portable hand-held transmitter which simultaneously operates to enable or disable the ignition circuit of the vehicle. In an enabled state of the anti-theft device, the dead bolts of the dead bolt mechanisms are retracted in an unlocked position and the vehicle ignition is operable. In a disabled state, the dead bolts of the dead bolt mechanisms are extended to a locked position and the vehicle ignition is inoperable so that the vehicle cannot be started.

Abstract: A quick connect/disconnect coupler has telescoping male and female members which engage along an axial dimension in response to an engaging force. The members are secured in their engaged position by a a pair of springs which mechanically couple to the respective members and limits their relative axial displacement. Upon release of the springs, the members readily disconnect by separating in response to a disengaging force. A method for use is also disclosed.

Abstract: A strap to hold wires or other components permanently or semi-permanently, using a flexible high strength carrier member as the main component of the strap. The strap replaces mechanically retained wire clips. To apply the wire strap, first the back liner is removed and the adhesive or tape member is attached to a substrate. Then the main member is folded over the object to be held and is placed against adhesive, or a hook and loop fastener is employed.