Abstract: Apparatus and methods of toy projectile storage, feeding and launch structures having feeding and launching functionality in a single motor combination with a carriage structure including a launch channel being supporting along with a magazine. A propelling mechanism is includes flywheels in communication with the launch channel for propelling projectiles from the magazine. A transmission gear assembly powered with the single motor to sequence and activate the feeding mechanism and the propelling mechanism for activation. Additionally stationary, mobile, dart and projectiles launcher or hand-held structures for propelling darts, balls or other projectiles. The flywheels include an elastomeric expanding flywheel structure mechanism with a flywheel hub and an expanding elastomeric tire allowing the expanding elastomeric tire to move inward and outward along a peripheral circumference.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting objects from a first compartment to a second compartment, where a movable valve element gates off the first compartment from the second compartment. The device includes a transfer element operable with the valve element to prevent the valve element from opening when the transfer element is not engaging the first compartment and to prevent articles and particulates, fluids, gases, odors, and matter from the second compartment from entering the first compartment when the valve element is open. A method for transferring articles into a container is also provided.

Abstract: A toy launch apparatus which includes single motor synchronized quick start/advanced start flywheel apparatus employing a drive mechanism for advancing rotation of projectile-propelling flywheels and driving a projectile-feeding advance mechanism for automatic and sequenced projectile-launching operation, with movement of the pusher mechanism to rapidly fire darts from the toy apparatus. The system apparatus and methods employing the single-motor-driven mechanism facilitate advanced starting projectile-propelling flywheels and driving a projectile-feeding mechanism in a novel fashion for automatic and sequenced projectile-launching operation with reduced mechanism mass and cost.

Abstract: A toy launch apparatus which includes single motor synchronized quick start/advanced start flywheel apparatus employing a drive mechanism for advancing rotation of projectile-propelling flywheels and driving a projectile-feeding advance mechanism for automatic and sequenced projectile-launching operation, with movement of the pusher mechanism to rapidly fire darts from the toy apparatus. The system apparatus and methods employing the single-motor-driven mechanism facilitate advanced starting projectile-propelling flywheels and driving a projectile-feeding mechanism in a novel fashion for automatic and sequenced projectile-launching operation with reduced mechanism mass and cost.

Abstract: An apparatus for transporting objects from a first compartment to a second compartment, where a movable valve element gates off the first compartment from the second compartment. The device includes a transfer element operable with the valve element to prevent the valve element from opening when the transfer element is not engaging the first compartment and to prevent articles and particulates, fluids, gases, odors, and matter from the second compartment from entering the first compartment when the valve element is open. A method for transferring articles into a container is also provided.

Abstract: A grappling hook that includes at least one central shaft, an outer collar, with the central shaft slidably mounted in the outer collar, at least one prong pivotably mounted at a distal end of the outer collar and movable between an open position in which a distal end of the at least one prong is spaced from the outer collar and a closed position in which the distal end of the at least one prong is positioned adjacent to the outer collar, a linkage mounted at a distal end of the central shaft, the linkage including at least one linkage element connected to the distal end of the at least one prong and a biasing element provided at the distal end of the central shaft and positioned between the linkage and the distal end of the outer collar such that the linkage is biased toward a position spaced away from the distal end of the outer collar and such that the linkage element holds the at least one prong in the open position.

Abstract: A streamline submersible vehicle having an internal propulsion system and a multidirectional thrust vectoring mechanism for steering.

Abstract: Remotely controlled and miniature biomimetic robotic fish for use as a scientific and educational tool, flexible and robust enough to be used for education from kindergarten through college level curricula, and including modular features that allow students to interact with the design of the robot based on observation of nature.