Abstract: An adjustable circumference seal includes an envelope having an outer layer and an inner layer, with the inner layer defining a sealing surface. A circumferential closure is provided for constricting the inner layer of the envelope and thereby adjusting a circumference of the inner layer of the envelope. The closure includes a band having a first end and a second end, with a first cord guide at the first end and a second cord guide at the second end. A cord is threaded from the outer layer through a cord channel in the envelope, through the first cord guide of the band, through the second cord guide of the band and back through the cord channel. By pulling the cord, the circumference of the inner layer of the envelope is reduced until the sealing surface is brought into a sealing engagement. A cord lock far maintains the cord in a selected position.

Abstract: An inflatable kite uses an inflatable tubular member as a leading edge. The wing is a membrane attached to the front of the leading edge to form a high camber for high lift. Vents in the wing fabric have flaps on them to form nozzles which, when wind is blowing over the kite, cause high pressure air under the kite to exhaust to the top surface of the kite and extend conditions of near laminar flow towards the trailing edge. This increases kite stability and improves stall characteristics.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a novel integrated kite control bar and controlled tension release safety device for use in kite boarding. More particularly, this invention pertains to an integrated kite control bar and controlled tension release safety device which can be activated by a kite boarder by moving the control bar against a safety release device. A kite control bar and safety release device comprising: (a) a kite control bar; (b) a center line associated with the kite control bar and having a first end and a second end; (c) a safety release device associated with the first end of the center line on a first side of the control bar; (d) a hook engaging loop associated with the second end of the center line, on a side of the control bar opposite to the safety release device, and being linked to the safety release device, said loop being openable when the control bar is advanced against the safety release device at the first end of the center line.