Abstract: A convertible percussion cart-platform system includes first and second instrument platforms that are shiftable between a transportation position and a performance position for moving and positioning musical instruments and a player platform that is shiftable between folded and unfolded positions for allowing a user to perform on instruments supported by first and second instrument platforms in the performance position.

Abstract: A convertible percussion cart-platform system includes first and second instrument platforms that are shiftable between a transportation position and a performance position for moving and positioning musical instruments and a player platform that is shiftable between folded and unfolded positions for allowing a user to perform on instruments supported by first and second instrument platforms in the performance position.

Abstract: Apparatus for extending the battery life of a seasonal-use battery. The apparatus is an improvement in a seasonal-use device having a battery charging system, wherein the battery charging system includes a voltage step-down device coupled to the charging system. The improvement includes a mechanism integral the battery charging system for providing a maintenance current to the battery proximate the battery's self-discharge rate. A mechanism is provided for coupling the battery charging system to an external power source. The apparatus for extending the battery life may also be coupled to the seasonal-use device system controller.

Abstract: Apparatus for extending the battery life of a seasonal-use battery. The apparatus is an improvement in a seasonal-use device having a battery charging system, wherein the battery charging system includes a voltage step-down device coupled to the charging system. The improvement includes a mechanism integral the battery charging system for providing a maintenance current to the battery proximate the battery's self-discharge rate. A mechanism is provided for coupling the battery charging system to an external power source. The apparatus for extending the battery life may also be coupled to the seasonal-use device system controller.

Abstract: A distributed low-pass filter typically attenuating a signal, 7 db. at 10 MHz., 18 db. at 30 MHz., and continuing at 50 db/decade, without resonant inflections, uses a small, low cost, rectangular tubular bead of outside dimension 3 mm..times.6 mm..times.2 mm., made from a body material having evenly distributed magnetic, dielectric, and resistive properties. A through-conductor completes the distributed filter which acts like a high loss cable transmission line. The tube's inner and outer surfaces are separately coated with an electrode material. The through-conductor electrically connects to the inner electrode, with its ends providing first and second filter terminals, and the outer electrode providing a common, terminal. An a.c. signal impressed between the first and common terminals produces an attenuated signal between the second and common terminals in accordance with the above characteristics. Also, a 6 mm..times.6 mm..times.1 mm block of the body material may typically form a 500 .mu.

Abstract: A device for filtering radio frequency noise emanating from one or more axially extending conductors. The device includes a conductive shell which is spaced axially from the conductor or conductors. A ferrite core is fitted intermediate, and in engagement with, both the conductor or conductors and the shell. The ferrite core, thereby, functions to provide substantially increased series impedance in the conductor or conductors and to concurrently provide a common dielectric for multiple distributed, bypass capacitors along the conductor or conductors.