Abstract: A composite grip or grip module for a handgun is made from a polymer composite that includes a polymer and dense particles that increase the density of the grip. For example, the particles can be tungsten, tantalum, lead, iron, or mixtures thereof to provide a polymer density of greater than 2.5 grams per cubic centimeter.

Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for making a composite grip or grip module for a handgun. The composite grip is made from a polymer composite that includes a polymer and dense particles that increase the density of the grip when compared to the polymer without the dense particles. The particles can be tungsten metal.

Abstract: A method and system for a vehicle wheel are provided. The vehicle wheel includes a circular hub, a concentric rim circumscribing the hub, a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart spokes extending radially between the hub and rim, each pair of adjacent spokes having an opening therebetween extending at least partially between the rim and hub, and a shutter assembly coupled to the wheel, the shutter assembly including at least one shutter coupled to a closure mechanism that includes a biasing mechanism configured to bias the at least one shutter toward a first relatively open position when the wheel is rotated at less than a predetermined speed.

Abstract: A method and system for a vehicle wheel are provided. The vehicle wheel includes a circular hub, a concentric rim circumscribing the hub, a plurality of circumferentially spaced-apart spokes extending radially between the hub and rim, each pair of adjacent spokes having an opening therebetween extending at least partially between the rim and hub, and a shutter assembly coupled to the wheel, the shutter assembly including at least one shutter coupled to a closure mechanism that includes a biasing mechanism configured to bias the at least one shutter toward a first relatively open position when the wheel is rotated at less than a predetermined speed.

Abstract: A sunshade assembly wherein the sunshade is secured in a deployed position at a single location, and wherein when the sunshade is retracted, the field of view through the window is unobstructed by securing members or the like. More particularly, the sunshade assembly utilizes a recessed hook or hook retainer within a trim panel adjacent the window as an anchor point, while a handgrip secured to the window shade is configured to pivot into a position to permit a hook or hook retainer associated therewith to be inserted into the recessed anchor point.

Abstract: A sunshade for regulating the entry of light into the interior of a vehicle. The sunshade includes a wind-up mechanism engaging a primary sheet. A secondary sheet is secured to the primary sheet. The primary sheet has a first end remote from the wind-up mechanism, the first end having a surface with a light reflecting value (A). The primary sheet has a second end adjacent the wind-up mechanism, the second end having a surface with a light reflecting value (B) which is greater or lesser than the light reflecting value (A). The secondary sheet has a first side facing the first end of the primary sheet, the first side having a surface with a light reflecting value substantially equal to value (A). The second side of the secondary sheet faces the second end of the primary sheet and has a surface with a light reflecting value substantially equal to value (B).

Abstract: A sunshade assembly wherein the sunshade is secured in a deployed position at a single location, and wherein when the sunshade is retracted, the field of view through the window is unobstructed by securing members or the like. More particularly, the sunshade assembly utilizes a recessed hook or hook retainer within a trim panel adjacent the window as an anchor point, while a handgrip secured to the window shade is configured to pivot into a position to permit a hook or hook retainer associated therewith to be inserted into the recessed anchor point.

Abstract: A sunshade for regulating the entry of light into the interior of a vehicle. The sunshade includes a wind-up mechanism engaging a primary sheet. A secondary sheet is secured to the primary sheet. The primary sheet has a first end remote from the wind-up mechanism, the first end having a surface with a light reflecting value (A). The primary sheet has a second end adjacent the wind-up mechanism, the second end having a surface with a light reflecting value (B) which is greater or lesser than the light reflecting value (A). The secondary sheet has a first side facing the first end of the primary sheet, the first side having a surface with a light reflecting value substantially equal to value (A). The second side of the secondary sheet faces the second end of the primary sheet and has a surface with a light reflecting value substantially equal to value (B).

Abstract: A solar-powered aircraft having a rotating tail assembly and/or a fore assembly is provided. The tail and fore assemblies have solar cells mounted on their upper surfaces and are rotated during flight to track the sun.

Abstract: An adaptive landing gear system for use in an aircraft includes a plurality of leveling struts. Each leveling strut includes an adaptive portion and landing pad. Each adaptive portion includes a fluid reservoir. A change in the volume of fluid in the fluid reservoir is configured to cause a change in extension of the corresponding landing pad. The adaptive portion of each leveling strut is in fluidic connection with the adaptive portion of at least one other leveling strut. The system includes a plurality of valves between the adaptive portions. Compression of the leveling strut forces fluid from the adaptive portion into the adaptive portion of at least one other leveling strut to extend the landing pad of the at least one other leveling strut. The valves prevent fluid from flowing back into the adaptive portion after compression.

Abstract: A storable and removable jump seat for use in a vehicle. The improved seat provide for convertible seating in the form of a folding jump seat provides conforming appearance, comfort, safety and practicality. The jump seat provides a safe, comfortable and easily storable seat that may be folded and stored against a wall within the vehicle's cargo area in order to expand the available cargo space. The jump seat assembly is also designed to be quickly and easily removable in order to increase the available cargo space within a vehicle. The jump seat may be quickly and easily reinstalled without the need for tools or additional assistance. Multiple jump seats may be arranged within a vehicle to provide a side by side seating arrangement.

Abstract: A storable and removable jump seat for use in a vehicle. The improved seat provide for convertible seating in the form of a folding jump seat provides conforming appearance, comfort, safety and practicality. The jump seat provides a safe, comfortable and easily storable seat that may be folded and stored against a wall within the vehicle's cargo area in order to expand the available cargo space. The jump seat assembly is also designed to be quickly and easily removable in order to increase the available cargo space within a vehicle. The jump seat may be quickly and easily reinstalled without the need for tools or additional assistance. Multiple jump seats may be arranged within a vehicle to provide a side by side seating arrangement.