Abstract: A writing apparatus (2) for holding notepaper (10) on a writing utensil. The writing apparatus may be self-contained (2, 102) or may be constructed as an adaptor (202) for use in conjunction with a standard size writing utensil (260). The writing apparatus includes an outer casing (4) for retaining a pencil lead or ink cartridge (20) centrally within the casing. Notepaper is carried by a hollow cylindrical member (6) through which the pencil lead or ink cartridge may be inserted. The casing includes a slot (12) for dispensing the notepaper. A paper control lock (14) is disposed adjacent an outer surface of the casing and extends into the slot. In its normal position, the paper control locks retains the notepaper within the casing. In order to dispense the notepaper, the paper control lock is released thereby permitting the notepaper to dispense through the slot.

Abstract: Visibility of a conventional umbrella is enhanced by including an illuminating device on the external side of the umbrella canopy and by incorporating a flashlight into the handle portion of the umbrella shaft. The flashlight is concealably pivotably mounted in a cavity in the lower end of the umbrella shaft. This allows the flashlight to be housed in the cavity when not needed, and pivoted out of the cavity so as to illuminate the user's path when needed. The illuminating device is controlled by a switch and a switching circuit in the handle region of the umbrella shaft. The illuminating device may be turned ON or OFF, or caused to blink ON and OFF automatically by means of the switch and switching circuit.

Abstract: A full length, inflatable body shield or bulletproof mattress which can be carried in portable fashion in a stored condition within a relatively small case having a source of pressurized gas. A valve is provided to open the gas source to inflate the mattress stored in a collapsed condition in the case. In one embodiment, the mattress is carried in a case which has the appearance of a conventional briefcase. The case can be opened by an electronic system or manual backup system operated by the switches near the handle of the case. In another embodiment, the mattress is carried in a case which appears to be a backpack. The backpack is opened by pulling the clip when it is desired to inflate and use the mattress.

Abstract: A collapsible light wand is formed from a telescopic tube assembly comprised of a plurality of overlapping translucent tube sections, the outermost tube section being attachable to the light end of a flashlight. A locking bar pivotally mounted to either the flashlight or to the outermost tube section may be swung over the ends of the tube sections when they are in the nested (retracted) position. A storage cylinder large enough to receive the nested tube assembly may also be provided, and is preferably attachable to the rear end of the flashlight for ease of carrying.