Abstract: A cane that has: a handle; a first tube attached to the handle; a second tube in slideable communication with the first tube, the second tube in communication with a cane tip; a spring located in the first tube, and in operable communication with the second tube; the spring preloaded such that when the second tube is fully extended from the first tube, the spring exerts generally about a value F1 of force on the second tube, tending keep the second tube extended from the first tube. A method for using a retractable cane to assist in sitting down. A method of using a retractable cane to rise from a sitting position. A method of using a retractable cane to assist in picking an object up.

Abstract: Methods for using a retractable cane to assist in sitting down, to rise from a sitting position, and to assist in picking an object up. One method comprising: standing with the cane slightly in front of the user, with one or two hands on top of the handle; bending knees and at the waist so that user's torso or chest approaches the cane's handle; applying a force down on the cane, causing the retraction of the second tube into the first tube; tilting the cane back towards torso or chest; resting chest or torso on hands located on the cane's handle; applying more down on the cane, causing more retraction of the second tube into the first tube; and easing into a sitting position or reaching and grabbing the desired object; and pushing down on the cane to rise to an upright standing position.

Abstract: A cane comprising: a handle; a first tube attached to the handle; a second tube in slideable communication with the first tube, the second tube in communication with a cane tip; a spring located in the first tube, and in operable communication with the second tube; the spring preloaded such that when the second tube is fully extended from the first tube, the spring exerts generally about a value F1 of force on the second tube, tending keep the second tube extended from the first tube. A method for using a retractable cane to assist in sitting down. A method of using a retractable cane to rise from a sitting position. A method of using a retractable cane to assist in picking an object up.

Abstract: A support structure 10 for positioning a conduit 12 for various environments including that of an aircraft gas turbine engine is disclosed. Various construction details are developed for the support structure which facilitate assembly of portions of the support structure. The support structure includes a clamp assembly 18 and a clip 22 for orienting the clamp assembly in the proper direction. Orientation of the clamp assembly is facilitated by features of the clip. These features include a pair of tabs 32, 34 which face each other from either side of the clamp assembly. In one detailed embodiment, the clamp includes a laterally extending tab 92 to block the channel formed between the pair of longitudinally extending tabs.

Abstract: A flammable fluid carrying tube has one of its ends disposed within a tube coupling which is adjacent a hot surface of the gas turbine engine. A flammable fluid deflector is disposed between the coupling and the hot surface for deflecting, away from the hot surface, any fluid which may leak from the coupling. The deflector includes an axially extending portion disposed against the tube outer surface adjacent the coupling, the axially extending portion including a circumferentially extending tab which fits into a corresponding slot in an arcuate positioning sleeve which is bonded to that surface of the tube facing away from the hot engine surface and which positions the deflector axially and circumferentially. A standard clamp secures the deflector to the tube. The deflector may be used with virtually any standard coupling and replaces expensive concentric tube designs which utilize special couplings and dual seals for redundancy.

Abstract: This invention relates to clamps of the type utilized on aircraft and aircraft power plants that anchor the various tubes associated therewith and are characterized by including a bulbous section in a standardized clamp that serves to relieve the high stresses that otherwise cause breakage and looseness.

Abstract: This invention relates to apparatus and means for reclaiming surplus fuel trapped in the fuel manifold system upon engine shutdown and includes a variable volume chamber operable as a function of and by motive power from the engine pneumatic starter and utilizes a valving system that prevents ingestion of air in the reclaimed fuel and is characterized by its complete automation, its relative simplicity and reduction in weight and size.

Abstract: A tubing clamp is described which comprises first and second parts having respective first and second bases and first and second upstanding portions and sized for assembly with the second base resting upon the first base and the upstanding portions in confronting relationship, registering holes in the bases for receiving a bolt for threadably attaching the clamp to a supporting surface, a plurality of substantially semicylindrically shaped channels in each upstanding portion which in the assembly define a corresponding plurality of passageways for receiving and clamping tubing members, and a flange and inwardly sloping ramp on the first base for engaging an outer edge of the second base whereby torque applied to the bolt in the assembly is reacted by a force between the upstanding portions substantially uniformly clamping the tubing members.