Abstract: A novel flat tubular plastic flutter valve for filling adjacent thin film evelope chambers into which it is peripherally sealed, as for cushioning and protecting items to be shipped within folder-over chambers, and in which the valve is notched to divide from a common external fluid (preferably air) filling inlet into a pair of independent flutter valve outlets one extending into each of the adjacent chambers and diverging from one another along the notch; the flutter valve preferably having low impedance characteristics imparted by a push-in and withdrawable fluid-filling block and stems that enable ready deflation and re-inflation of the chambers. The valve is also useful with other chamber bladder configurations, including undivided single chambers, among others.

Abstract: A two-dimensional inflatable heat-sealable thin-film form is provided for creating a three-dimensional inflated cone with a recess in the base of the cone, useful as a carrying pouch or as an end-cap for cushioning, as well as thermal protection. A preferred manufacturing in-line process for making the cone is also described.

Abstract: The apparatus immobilizes a wheel of a vehicle. A chock is connected to a facing bar. Also connected to the facing bar, spaced away from the chock is an engaging bar. The engaging bar has a first, generally elongated straight section and a second section that is shorter than the first straight section, and that is joined to one end of the first section such that the angle between the first section and a portion of the second section is between -45.degree. and +45.degree., preferably 0.degree.. The engaging bar is attached to the facing bar, such that the first straight section is generally perpendicular to the facing bar, the engaging bar is movable along its first section relative to the facing bar and the second section is rotatable around an axis coaxial with the first section. A lock locks the engaging bar at a desired position relative to the facing bar.