Abstract: A skateboard with propulsion, visual and aural enhancement. The propulsion enhancement is provided by a transmission device which is mounted adjacent at least one wheel of the skateboard. The transmission device includes a spring for storing energy during one mode of operation and releasing energy during a second mode. A lever controlled by the foot of the user shifts between the two modes. The transmission may also include a retarding force for controlling the speed of the skateboard. Various devices, e.g., lights, sound, smoke and hubcaps, are included which add to the attractiveness of the skateboard.

Abstract: A fishing rod holder has two pivotally connected brackets. One braket has a hollow cylindrical opening to receive the rod and has a clamp for securing the holder to a stationary surface. A quick release lever allows the rod to be removed from the holder in time to hook a fish. Also, the angular position of the brackets with respect to each other can be set to meet desired fishing conditions.

Abstract: Apparatus for keeping food hot and/or cold includes a body of heavily insulated material in which there are separate recesses for hot food and cold food. The cold food is kept cold by means of an ice compartment located in the bottom of one recess and an exhaustible refrigeration unit located in the top of that recess. The hot food is kept warm by means of an electrical coil in the bottom of the recess and a solar heating panel in the top.

Abstract: A mobile paint application and microwave drying apparatus has a downwardly open hollow frame forming a microwave cavity movable over a surface on rollers. The interior cavity of the frame is coated with microwave absorbent material, as are the rollers. The frame in the front and rear conforms to the rollers with a certain gap and ends above the surface at a certain distance. Treads extend between the front and rear rollers on each side and have a thickness which is greater than the gap and distance so as to create a circuitous path from the cavity which blocks microwave radiation. A paint spray nozzle is located in the cavity and applies paint to the surface. This paint is rapidly dried by a microwave generator which is positioned in the cavity and directs radiation onto the wet paint.

Abstract: A portable personal alarm which has a small size and achieves high sound levels utilizes the overdriving of a miniature buzzer. In order to reduce the likelihood of damage to the buzzer and create a more terrifying and noticeable sound, the alarm tone is pulsed.

Abstract: A motor drive circuit controlling the period of each cycle of line voltage which is supplied through an electronic switch to a motor winding. The phase difference between the current through and the voltage across the winding is measured and compared to a reference. The duration of the period of a cycle when the switch is closed and supplies power to the motor winding is varied in relation to the phase comparison so as to maintain an optimal phase angle or power factor for the motor. To eliminate misfiring of the switches in a single phase unit, an a.c. coupled power supply is used to power the control circuits and a varistor is located across the line. Also, fuses are used to protect the circuitry. In a three phase circuit, resistive dividers in current and voltage sensing circuits are matched within 1% of each other to provide proper triggering of the switches of each phase with respect to each other.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for drying organic products utilizing a microwave heater in a cavity. In order to prevent the microwaves from leaking out of the cavity while the products are being transported through it by a conveyor, labyrinth seals are located at both the entrance and exit to the cavity.

Abstract: A swimming simulator provides a user with the exercise typically provided by swimming. This simulator includes a support frame from which arm and leg levers project. The arm levers are extendable from the front of the frame against the resistance of springs and are pivotable transversely to the frame. Grip handles at the ends of the arm levers are rotatable against another predetermined resistance. Also, the leg levers are movable in an arc against a further predetermined resistance.

Abstract: A ground-effect vehicle having a base frame and a downwardly extending skirt, rides on an air cushion created by injecting air downwardly through the frame into the space beneath the vehicle. In order to prevent the down draft of the air injected under the vehicle from damaging fragile objects, such as young plants, a deflector is provided to divert the air flow parallel to the ground and to reduce its velocity, while still maintaining sufficient pressure in the air cushion to permit the vehicle to hover.

Abstract: Molded objects are formed from rubber and glass products, e.g. discarded glass and rubber, by grinding the rubber and glass into small particles and then melting them in separate kilns. The melted glass and rubber are then mixed together in various proportions, i.e. 20-80% by volume of the glass being added to the rubber. An epoxy resin in an amount of 0.5-1.5% is added as a binder while the melt is being mixed to a uniform consistency. Before the melt can solidify, it is poured into a mold. Small quantities of water and/or sand may also be added to the melt if desired.