Abstract: A tie-down strap is described, having a length of fabric having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein a loop is securely formed at the distal end. A first hook having a first eye, is provided, wherein the loop passes through the first eye. A second hook, having a different configuration from the first hook is provided, having a second eye wherein the loop passes through the second eye. The second hook is sized and configured to pass through the first eye of the first hook.

Abstract: A tie-down strap is described, comprising a length of fabric having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein a loop is securely formed at the distal end. A first hook having a first eye, is provided, wherein the loop passes through the first eye. A second hook, having a different configuration from the first hook is provided, having a second eye wherein the loop passes through the second eye. The second hook is sized and configured to pass through the first eye of the first hook.

Abstract: A multiple socket ratcheting wrench is described comprising an elongate handle with a first end and a second end. A first mounting element connected to the first end and a second mounting element connected to the second end. A first holder element rotatably attached by a first pin to the first mounting element is provided, wherein the first holder is capable of rotating at least 180 degrees about the first pin, the first holder element defining a first opening and a second opening. The first opening receives a first socket and a second socket, and the second opening receives a third socket and a fourth socket. A first ratcheting means is attached to the first holder element and is configured to control torque direction of the first socket and the second socket, and a second ratcheting means is attached to the first holder element and is configured to control torque direction of the third socket and the fourth socket.

Abstract: There is provided a vending machine for multiple product sales, including means for displaying multiple products; means for operating the machine and effecting the dispensing of any selected product; at least one display screen disposed adjacent to the means for displaying multiple products, and an electronic control unit for selectively controlling the display on the screen prior to, and/or during, and/or after a vending operation. A method for operating a vending machine is also provided.

Abstract: An apparatus or structure that aids in protecting a packaging assembly from damage. The apparatus or structure is also contemplated to protect the items retained in the packaging materials as well as facilitate storing the packaging materials.

Abstract: A tool case including modular storage compartments. In one aspect, the tool case includes a translucent cover and the modular storage compartments can be removed from the tool case and displayed or mounted to a surface.

Abstract: A case for storing and displaying tools and other items. The case includes at least one door formed from transparent materials so that stored items can be viewed and inventoried.

Abstract: A configurable space launch system of multiple different vehicle configurations that use a common reusable spaceplane and cost effective external tanks is presented. Each vehicle configuration in the system incorporates one or more reusable spaceplanes and most or all ascent propellant in multiple releasable external tanks. The flight trajectory of each vehicle has multiple in-flight staging points to increase vehicle performance efficiency. The system is governed and configured by a unique set of eight prescripts that together minimize launch costs.

Abstract: A configurable space launch system of multiple different vehicle configurations that use a common reusable spaceplane and cost effective external tanks is presented. Each vehicle configuration in the system incorporates one or more reusable spaceplanes and most or all ascent propellant in multiple releasable external tanks. The flight trajectory of each vehicle has multiple in-flight staging points to increase vehicle performance efficiency. The system is governed and configured by a unique set of eight prescripts that together minimize launch costs.

Abstract: A gumball machine which has a transparent support column supporting a partially transparent gumball housing. The support column encloses several individual plates. The plates are spaced apart and arranged in a descending manner. Each of the plates has an opening located thereon so that a gumball can gravitationally descend from one plate to another and eventually ends up in a dispensing aperture for removal by a customer. The plates can also be manually manipulated by an exterior handle for additional customer amusement.