Abstract: The self defense umbrella forms a defensive shield that blocks and deflects offensive projectiles directed at a person using the self defense umbrella. The self defense umbrella comprises a shield and a control system. The shield forms a physical barrier that blocks and deflects offensive projectiles directed at the person using the self defense umbrella. The control system: 1) captures images of the environment of the person using the self defense umbrella; 2) determines the GPS coordinates of the person using the self defense umbrella; 3) transmits the captured images and the GPS coordinates to an appropriate authority; 4) illuminates the environment of the person using the self defense umbrella; and, 5) operates a defensive firearm incorporated into the self defense umbrella.

Abstract: A method for powering down a autonomous power unit includes a spark ignition engine power source having an associated power source actuating system and a power output, comprises a regulator associated with the power source. The regulator comprises a deactivator actuatingly linked to the power source actuating system and having a base and secondary configurations wherein the base configuration allows the rated power output by the power source and the secondary configurations allow a progressively reduced secondary rate of power output by the power source and wherein the secondary rates are less than the base rate. The apparatus further comprises a controller remote from the regulator, for transmitting a control signal to the regulator. The deactivator is actuable in response to the control signal to activate either the base rate configuration or one of the secondary configurations to control thereby regulating the power source.

Abstract: A roadway-powered electric vehicle (RPEV) system includes: (1) an all-electric vehicle; and (2) a roadway network over which the vehicle travels. The all-electric vehicle has one or more onboard energy storage elements or devices that can be rapidly charged or energized with energy obtained from an electrical current, such as a network of electromechanical batteries. The electric vehicle further includes an on-board controller that extracts energy from the energy storage elements, as needed, and converts such extracted energy to electrical power used to propel the electric vehicle. The energy storage elements may be charged while the vehicle is in operation. The charging occurs through a network of power coupling elements, e.g., coils, embedded in the roadway.