Abstract: A device for information storage and retrieval. A card containing electromagnetic information, such as a credit card, an access card or security card is biased to be initially in an inactive state. The card can be activated only using a holding apparatus, and then only for a predetermined number of uses, after which the card becomes inactivated again. The holding apparatus includes a communication device for communicating to a remote location such as a credit company and acts as a mobile telephone. The holding apparatus also enables loading and altering all of the information on the card. Further, a method for determining if a transaction is allowed is described. Two security code lists are maintained, one list in a holding apparatus and one list at the remote location where the determination occurs. A security code is transferred to the card by the holding apparatus.

Abstract: An apparatus for encircling items with tape includes a spool assembly for dispensing the tape, a displacement mechanism for displacing the spool assembly in a closed path about the items, and a tape control mechanism. The tape control mechanism has a rod rotatable about its longitudinal axis. The rod assumes a primed state in which it is disposed between the closed path and the items and is locked to rotation thereby allowing the tape to become caught thereon. The rod also assumes a release state in which the rod is free to rotate thereby facilitating peeling away of the tape from the rod. The spool assembly preferably includes a spool for supplying the tape, a spring element attached to the spool so as to bias the spool to recoil, and a rotatable friction mount for releasing excess tension in the spring element.

Abstract: An all mechanically operated device for preventing the theft of motor vehicles having automatic transmission gears and having a main transmission oil line provided between the pressure outlet of a transmission oil pump and the automatic transmission gears for supplying transmission oil under pressure to the automatic transmission gears; said device comprising a branch transmission oil line connected between said main line and a transmission oil sump, and a selectively operated bypass valve connected in said branch line so that when said bypass valve is open, the transmission oil pressure to the automatic gears is neutralized thereby preventing transmission drive for the motor vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for opening plastic bags and retaining same in open position during the operation of automatic packaging machines. It comprises a hopper, funnel or the like, a source for an air jet which blows air into the opened bag through an air nozzle, a stack of bags stored vertically and below the product supply and a hoop of semicircular cross-section made of wire, strip of metal or plastic adapted to engage said opened bag and being rotatably mounted in a supporting mechanism adjacent to the supply of said bag.