Abstract: A power system is disclosed. The power system may have an engine with a desired operating speed range, and a generator mechanically driven by the engine to produce electrical power directed to an external load. The power system may also have a power storage device associated with at least one of the engine and the generator, and a controller in communication with the engine and the power storage device. The controller may be configured to determine a speed of the engine deviating from the desired operating range, and to activate the power storage device to absorb or supplement at least a portion of the electrical power directed to the external load based on the determination.

Abstract: A biodegradable target disc adapted to be molded into a rigid target that is launchable from a launching device, the biodegradable target disc comprising soy protein isolate and protein filler.

Abstract: A power system is disclosed. The power system may have an engine with a desired operating speed range, and a generator mechanically driven by the engine to produce electrical power directed to an external load. The power system may also have a power storage device associated with at least one of the engine and the generator, and a controller in communication with the engine and the power storage device. The controller may be configured to determine a speed of the engine deviating from the desired operating range, and to activate the power storage device to absorb or supplement at least a portion of the electrical power directed to the external load based on the determination.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an improved process for the hydrothermal conversion of coral into hydroxyapatite, a process for coating an object with hydroxyapatite, a process for coating an object with a divalent metal phosphate and uses of objects prepared by these processes. Following the processes according to the present invention, the resultant hydroxyapatite has greater strength and bioactivity than that of the coral to its conversion.

Abstract: This invention relates to methods and systems that provide annuities with at least one liquidity option that allows the holder of the liquidity option to exercise the option and convert therewith a portion of a value of the annuity into a liquid asset, such as cash or a cash value, based on the value of future income payments, which can include payments that are guaranteed to be paid for the duration of one or more lifetime. The conversion may be in a variety of forms, such as an advance of at least a portion of the future income payments, or in the form a lump sum distribution of at least a portion of a commuted value of the annuity computed based at least in part on the present value, at the time of the conversion, of future income payments for the remainder of the guarantee period.

Abstract: Methods and systems are described herein for providing an annuity including flexible income, liquidity options or permanent legacy benefits. Providing the annuity generally includes receiving information useful for issuing an annuity that provides for a first level of income payments during a first time period and a second level of income payments during a second time period following the first time period. The second payment level may be contingent on a first event. An annuity premium is computed to provide the first level of income payments and the contingent second level of income payments. The annuity is issued generally upon receipt of a portion of the computed premium.

Abstract: A modular circuit breaker assembly structured to be disposed within a light pole that includes a housing assembly, a mounting assembly disposed within the housing assembly, a circuit breaker coupled to the mounting assembly, and a plurality of conductors. The light pole has an elongated body with a cavity. Within the light pole cavity is a line conductor and a load conductor, each of which terminate in a coupling device. The modular circuit breaker assembly plurality of conductors include at least one line conductor and at least one load conductor, the modular circuit breaker assembly at least one line conductor and modular circuit breaker assembly at least one load conductor coupled to, and in electrical communication with, the circuit breaker.

Abstract: A personnel guided aerial delivery device is disclosed which can be used to safely and precisely deliver personnel, cargo, or a combination of both from an aircraft in flight, to a precise target or location. In the preferred embodiment, the aerial delivery device generally consists of a large "ram-air" type gliding parachute, a "drogue" parachute, an encapsulated crew module, a "fly-by-wire" control system, and a landing impact attenuation system. The aerial delivery device can employ an onboard human pilot to navigate the module. The use of a skilled pilot allows the aerial delivery device to be guided to a designated landing site.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for a motor vehicle having an hydraulically-operated braking system comprises a plunger engagable with a flexible sealing ring, to close the fluid path between the pressure fluid supply and the brake cylinders. The plunger is inserted into the ring to seal with generally axially extending portion of the ring projecting freely in the direction of flow towards the vehicle's brakes. Application of pressure from the supply flexes said portion to away from sealing contact with the plunger to permit flow of fluid from the pressure fluid supply to the brake cylinders. Return flow of fluid from the brake cylinders to the supply is however prevented, whereby the brakes can be applied but cannot thereafter be removed until the plunger is withdrawn. The device further comprises means for locking the plunger in its operative position.