Abstract: Devices and methods of a pod that deploys from an aircraft or vehicle and descends to safely land. The pod is configured to be attached to an aircraft or vehicle. The pod includes walls that extend around and form a contained interior space that houses one or more travelers or cargo containers. During flight of the aircraft or vehicle, the pod deploys from the aircraft or vehicle while at an elevation above ground. A landing location is determined for the pod. While the pod is descending, the pod is steered towards and lands at the landing location.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for duplicating an original key, the keyway and keycode of the original key are measured and duplicated in a preform. The preform used in the duplication process need not include any keyway or keycode prior to the duplication process and, therefore, a single type of preform may be used in generating duplicates of many different types of keys. The apparatus may be automated to take the measurements of the original key and to cut the duplicate key, thus reducing the possibility of producing a nonfunctional duplicate.

Abstract: A collectible structure of delicate frangible hollow construction having a circular or other shaped opening in its rear wall is provided with a relatively axially short protective sleeve of tough composition fitting within the opening and retained therein, e. g. by frictional engagement with the opening edges. An illuminating unit having a light source for illuminating the collectible structure from its interior is placed within the sleeve with the light source disposed within the structure interior beyond the inner end of the sleeve. Attached to the unit are resilient spring supporting means therefor, preferably in the form of plural resilient outwardly-directed fingers, in engagement with an interior surface of the sleeve so that the sleeve surface bears the force of the supporting means. Preferably, the sleeve has a short arcuate segment removed from its perimeter to permit the sleeve to be compressed to fit different sized openings.

Abstract: In a method and apparatus for duplicating an original key, the keyway and keycode of the original key are measured and duplicated in a preform. The preform used in the duplication process need not include any keyway or keycode prior to the duplication process and, therefore, a single type of preform may be used in generating duplicates of many different types of keys. The apparatus may be automated to take the measurements of the original key and to cut the duplicate key, thus reducing the possibility of producing a nonfunctional duplicate.