Abstract: A beverage container lid can include an audio speaker; a wireless transceiver to transmit and receive wireless signals; and a hardware processor to process wireless signals received by the wireless transceiver and to output audible signals through the audio speaker. The beverage container lid can also include a water-tight housing, the wireless transceiver and hardware processor contained within the water-tight housing; a drinking aperture; and a fluid channel, the fluid channel to allow fluid to pass through the drinking aperture, and the water-tight housing to prevent fluid passing through the fluid channel from contacting the wireless transceiver and hardware processor.

Abstract: In various embodiments, a portable support stand for supporting an elongated luminaire, a luminaire structure for supporting a luminaire on a support surface, and associated methods are provided. In an example embodiment, a portable support stand comprises a base portion configured to be positioned on a support surface and a luminaire holster detachably coupled to the base portion. The luminaire holster is configured to receive an elongated luminaire therein and to support the elongated luminaire in a fixed orientation relative to the support surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to a firework battery (10), comprising at least one receiving part (11) for at least one pyrotechnic charge (20) and a border (13), which is connected via at least one hinge part (14) to a further receiving part (11) and/or an extension element (15) that continues the border and that is arranged on a receiving part (11), the axis of rotation of the hinge part being arranged vertically in relation to a ground. According to the invention, it is provided that the geometric arrangements of the receiving part (11) and/or of the extension element (15) are movable relative to one another, whereby a bordered support base (30) of the firework battery (10) is enlarged.

Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).

Abstract: A fireworks launching stand comprises a post, a cap attached to a top of the post, and at least one horizontal arm attached to the cap. The horizontal arm can be tilted. Fireworks tubes suitable for use with rockets and/or Roman candles are attached to the horizontal arm. The use of the stand reduces the risk of injury to the user due to improper handling of lit fireworks.

Abstract: An improved, multiple-use fireworks launcher (10) is provided for the launching of fireworks such as an artillery shell (40) having a lower lift charge (42) and an upper effect charge (44). The launcher (10) includes a base (12), with an upstanding, open-top launch tube (14) operably coupled with the base (12). A reinforcing section (16) is positioned about the lower end of launch tube (14), and preferably comprises a tubular sleeve (36) tightly secured to the outer surface (32) of launch tube (14). The combined thickness of the tube (14) and section (16) are sufficient to prevent catastrophic failure of the launcher (10) in the event a shell (40) is improperly placed within the tube (14) in an inverted condition with the lift charge (42) thereof positioned over the effect charge (44).

Abstract: The present invention discloses an integral-type combined firework, in which several tubular holes whose central longitudinal axes are parallel to each other are uniformly distributed on a body, the tubular holes have openings upward and bottom ends closed, the closed end of the bottom of each tubular hole is provided with one small through hole that penetrates through the bottom of the body and is provided with a spreading fuse, the body, the tubular holes and the small through holes thereof are an integrally molded structure; the bottom in each tubular holes is provided with propellant powder and connected with the spreading fuse, the propellant powder is provided with an inner cylinder or an effect powder on it.

Abstract: An active body (2) is proposed that includes an active mass that comprises multiple flares (3, 4) arranged behind each other or stacked, in particular for the generation of decoys. The active body (2) is enclosed in a plastics-like container (1), such as a plastic film (5) or a shrink tube (7). Plastic disks or films (8) are placed on the end face of the container and are connected to the plastic film (5) or the plastic shrink tube (7) by adhesion or heat sealing (6) so that the plastic container (1) is hermetically sealed.

Abstract: A firework launching platform apparatus includes a panel that has a top side, a bottom side and a peripheral edge. The panel has a plurality of apertures therein extending into the top side and outwardly of the bottom side. The apertures receive a body of a firework to support the firework in an upright manner. The apertures include primary apertures and secondary apertures. Each of the primary apertures is positioned adjacent to the peripheral edge of the panel. A plurality of channels is positioned in the bottom side of the panel. The channels each extend through the peripheral edge and into one of the primary apertures. Each of the primary apertures is linked by at least one of the channels to the peripheral edge.

Abstract: The invention discloses a container and support stand for conventional road flares, thereby allowing said stand to support flares during use. The device consists of multiple round flare holders or tubes, which are snapped around a central core holder. The core holder will accommodate four (4) to six (6) flares dependent upon the model. Each flare tube has a waterproof cap. To use, a person would select one or more flare tubes from the central core, remove each cap, and slide out the flare. A locking system to prevent the flare from falling all of the way back into the tube is then activated, along with a spring-levered two-foot support stand. The stand is then deployed with the flare ignited and dropped into the tube. When finished, the spent flare can be discarded, a new one placed in the holder, the cap replaced, and the holder snapped back into the central core holder, thus making the device ready for the next use.

Abstract: A tactical device holster (TDH) system is described that is a complete carry and deployment solution allowing for split-second deployment of hand-held non-lethal/lethal deployable devices (HNLDD) by tactical personnel. The TDH system allows tactical personnel to deploy HNLDDs without having to disarm because deployment requires only a single hand, and the TDH system indexes the HNLDD in the proper position for deployment. The TDH system allows the HNLDD to go from secure carry to deployment in under one second while not impeding the deadly force option during deployment. The TDH system keeps the fuze lever of the HNLDD fixed in a pre-specified position. The HNLDD is not altered for use with the TDH system and allows quick insertion of the HNLDD. The TDH system supports numerous HNLDDs and tactical pyrotechnic and incendiary devices, and can be fixed to various tactical clothing, vests, holsters, equipment, and vehicle components.

Abstract: A system for the securing of road flares in order to maintain continuous burning of the flares and not allow them to roll away. The system includes first and second holding means aligned either in the same plane, or offset from each other. The first holding means holds a flare by a first end of the flare. The second holding means is connected to the first holding means in either the same plane or else at a distance from the first holding means. The second holding means holds a second flare by the second end of the flare. Once the first flare has burned the entire length of the flare, it ignites the second end of the second flare so that the second flare is ignited.

Abstract: A reusable pyrotechnics support device for securely holding consumer ground-based fireworks (for example, fountains, mortars, multiple aerials, and the like) in a vertical and upright position, using a sufficiently wide base that is resistant to tipping over. In certain configurations, the apparatus is a molded plastic element formed in a generally round shape with an outer annular section and a series of resilient flexible cantilever tines extending radially inward toward a central aperture serving as a primary insertion point for the pyrotechnics.

Abstract: A fireworks stand for elevating fixed-position fireworks, especially cone type fountains, having a body with an inner cavity for storing the fireworks and an upper platform for supporting the fireworks during discharge. The platform is nested into an upper end of the body and receives an upper keeper that is sized and shaped to fit inside of the nested platform in order to secure the fireworks. The cavity has a lower keeper and base structure that is removed to provide access to a plurality of inserts, which house the fireworks.

Abstract: Based on pyrotechnic launch tubes (1) with a cylindrical body which houses in their interior both the pyrotechnic objects or materials (3) and the lifting powder (5), the system consists in providing each cylinder (1), on its lower base, with a series of tabs (6), determining a radially deformable neck, wherein said tabs (6) are finished in barbs (7) for engagement by pressure in a securing piece (11–11?), fastenable to the frame of the tubes or incorporated by way of a single piece in the actual frame, provided with an external and rigid neck with a gradation (14) for the engagement of the barbs (7) and provided with an axial and cylindrical core (10) which, perforating the bottom of the cylinder (1), is of a size to house in its interior the igniter (12) with its corresponding cable (13), which is thereby perfectly protected from possible environmental humidity.

Abstract: A launching device for launching multiple firework shells skyward th a base having foldable wings hinged to a central body. The foldable wings fold downward and reduce the size of the base for the purpose of providing a low-profile profile shipping configuration. The base has a connector, such as an engagement cylinder, that matingly engages an elongated or tubular member that is sized and shaped to receive aerial fireworks. The engagement cylinder provides either a male or female engagement with the tubular member. An adapter is provided to adjust the diameter of the connector to fit tubes of different diameter.

Abstract: A reusable aluminum fire cup having a dome-shaped cap and including an ordinary fire cracker placed in a copper tube, then placed in a container with small amount of water, and then ignited, the fire cracker's blast and the pressure from the water will propel the fire cup high into the air.

Abstract: Pyrotechnic fireworks launch apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a base to which is affixed a male-configured launching cylinder adapted to accept thereover, in combination, an internally cylindrical, female-configured projectile, wherein the projectile has a proximal and a distal end thereof. The projectile houses a fused pyrotechnic display charge proximate its distal end and also houses a fused launching charge encased therein and partitioned from the display charge. On insertion of the launching cylinder into the proximal end of the projectile, thereby mounting the projectile upon the launching cylinder, the encased launching charge and the launching cylinder are in abutting relationship. Upon ignition of the fused launch charge, the projectile is launched vertically from the launching cylinder. The external configuration of the projectile may have any number of shapes. In a preferred configuration, it is shaped as a rocket.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for positioning a shaped charge for destroying land mines and unexploded ordnance utilizes one or more pins secured to a shaped charge. In one embodiment, an outer body made of molded rubber has one or more flanges with holes for receiving the pins. By manipulating the legs of the pins, the shaped charge is positioned in proximity to the “target.” The tips of the pins may be forced into the surface surrounding the target, or by bending the legs of the pins to rest on the surrounding surface. A detonator, such as a blasting cap, may be secured to the shaped charge through an opening in the outer body, or through a clip attached to the shaped charge. The opening in the outer body is deformabale to accommodate various diameter detonators. The clip has a flange that the detonator is seated against to at ensure proper placement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tow body for representing a flying target by means of infrared flares, the infrared flares being situated on the rear of the tow body and being ejectable by the tow body and being pulled by the tow body by means of a reel-off towing cable during burning time. According to the invention, a drop unit (1) for the burned-up IR flares is arranged on the rear of the tow body, which drop unit (1) comprises a circular receiving unit (7) which is rotatably disposed and constructed under a retaining plate (8), for the towing cable nipples (17) forming the tow-body-side end of the towing cable, after the burning-up of an infrared flare, the corresponding towing cable nipple (17) connected with the infrared flare being released by a rotation of the receiving unit (7).

Abstract: A flare holder that is attachable to a traffic cone or other upright support structure for holding a lit flare at an elevation higher than a roadway surface. The flare holder includes a lower portion that is attachable to the upright support structure and an ash receptacle that is pivoted at one end to the lower portion. The ash receptacle is can be pivoted up and over the top of the support structure from a stowed position wherein it is suspended from the pivot to an operative position located between 180° and 270° from the stowed position. In an operative position, the flare holder supports a flare at an upward inclination wherein the ash receptacle has an end portion extending outwardly from the pivot and disposed to receive ashes falling from the lit end of the flare.

Abstract: A flare holder that is attachable to a traffic cone or other upright support structure for holding a lit flare at an elevation higher than a roadway surface. The flare holder includes a lower portion that is attachable to the upright support structure and an ash receptacle that is pivoted at one end to the lower portion. The ash receptacle is can be pivoted up and over the top of the support structure from a stowed position wherein it is suspended from the pivot to an operative position located between 180° and 270° from the stowed position. In an operative position, the flare holder supports a flare at an upward inclination wherein the ash receptacle has an end portion extending outwardly from the pivot and disposed to receive ashes falling from the lit end of the flare.

Abstract: A magazine for holding and distributing a plurality of road flares has a bottom including downwardly facing sockets for receiving ends of a plurality of road flares and for retaining the received flares against the force of gravity but such that each retained flare may be plucked out by hand for lighting and distribution. A top includes a carrying handle adapted for cradling a lit starter flare such that the flare can be held to the handle by a carrying hand and released as desired by releasing the flare from the carrying hand and tilting the handle. Preferably, the ignition end of the flare is inserted in the socket and a cap and/or anti-roll device is placed on the other end of the flare.

Abstract: A launcher for launching aerial firework shells into the air includes a base and an upright tubular member. The tubular member is constructed of a plastic that resists damage from the explosive force of the fireworks and allows substantial reuse of the launcher for multiple shells. The tubular member is seated in an indentation in the base that snugly receives the sides of the tubular member. The tubular member is preferably secured to the base by stainless steel staples to allow for use of the launcher in a damp environment and over multiple years.

Abstract: A fusee cap includes a fusee cap body having a scratch surface for frictional engagement with the head of a fusee to cause fusee ignition and a spark deflector shield projecting from the fusee cap body to deflect sparks produced during ignition.

Abstract: A decoy flare ignition system is disclosed which includes an ignition initiator disposed at the aft end of the flare housing. An illuminant igniter is positioned in direct contact with the flare illuminant. The illuminant igniter includes at least one illuminant igniter pellet selected such that the firing of the ignition initiator triggers combustion of the illuminant igniter pellet if the safe-and-initiation device has been actuated. The igniter pellet is preferably configured as a circular cylindrical shell and is positioned over the bore of the flare illuminant.

Abstract: A decoy flare for infrared (IR) seeking missiles comprises a tubular outer shell with a first rupturing disc sealing a rear end of the outer shell and a cover member with a second rupturing disc sealing a front end of the outer shell. These form a sealed container for a pyrophoric liquid. A nozzle cap is attached to the cover member with a nozzle being located in front of the second rupturing disc. A piston in the container adjacent the first rupturing disc separates the pyrophoric liquid from the disc. A holder for a gas generator, a disc of energetic material, is connected in sealed relationship to the container to position the gas generator adjacent the first rupturing disc and form a gas generating chamber between the holder and that disc. That holder contains an ignition mechanism for the gas generator and a seal to prevent gases from escaping via the ignition mechanism after it is activated.

Abstract: A decoy flare is disclosed which includes illuminant disposed within a housing. A shroud is slidably attached to the housing for deployment from a retracted position to an extended position. A plug is attached to the aft end of the shroud and is configured with a radially beveled, nozzle-contacting surface. The plug is positioned and configured to sealingly engage the nozzle when the shroud is in the retracted position and to disengage the nozzle upon deployment of the shroud to the extended position. The plug is configured with a plume-contacting surface positioned at an angle to the path of the plume when the shroud is in the extended position for enhancing the cross-sectional area of the plume of the flare.

Abstract: A device for simultaneously ejecting two fluids, in particular pyrotechnic fluids, intended to react on contact after ejection includes a reservoir for each fluid open to the exterior of the device through a respective nozzle. The two reservoirs comprise a respective cylinder/piston combination and simultaneous ejection of the two fluids is achieved by displacement of one piston inside the respective cylinder and mechanical coupling of the pistons. The ejection rates are in constant proportion defined by the section of the piston regardless of how full the reservoirs are.

Abstract: Infrared decoy flare having box fins which deploy upon firing of the flare from an aircraft to stabilize flare trajectory and flight path, and an aerodynamic nose to also enhance flight stability, as well as plume formation and subsequent decoying.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for automatically attaching a substantially U-shaped support stand to a fusee includes an annular indexable turntable provided with holders for receiving support stands at one workstation, and fusees in assembled relationship with the support stands at another workstation. The support stands are deformed from substantially straight shapes to substantially U-shapes as they are loaded into the holders on the turntable. The free ends of the support stand are subsequently inwardly curled prior to assembly with the fusees. The fusees are fed from a supply hopper, cleaned, and successively inserted into a holder on the turntable in assembled relationship with successively presented support stands.Subsequently, the turntable is indexed to additional workstations where predetermined lengths of polyfilament tape are successively applied to end portions of the fusees, and subsequently wrapped about the fusees and associated end portions of the support stand to securely join one to the other.

Abstract: A flare comprising an oxygen reservoir section, a fuel reservoir section and a nozzle section; the oxygen reservoir section having a reservoir capable of containing oxygen at high pressure, and a valve operable by an actuator to selectively permit transmission of pressurized oxygen from the reservoir; the fuel reservoir section including a collapsible fuel bag having a fuel orifice at one end and a plug normally positioned over the orifice; and the nozzle section having a oxygen flow deflector, a fuel atomizing region and an ignition region.

Abstract: A road flare is provided which is triangular in cross-section to maximize stability of the flare as is used burning on a roadway surface or the like, and to maximize packing, storing and shipping efficiency by providing a cross-sectional shape that defines a flush-pack with other flares so that no significant interstitial space is wasted within the packing, shipping and storing container.

Abstract: A holder for fireworks comprising a pair of rigid uprights of sheet material and a number of rigid plates or shelves of sheet material extending between the uprights. Slots in the respective components provide for assembly into a self-supporting fireworks holder by the relative telescoping of the uprights through the slots. Legs of sheet construction are also telescoped through slots in the upright and interlock with slits in the baseplate to rigidify the structure. Holes in some of the plates hold the fireworks in position for firing. The baseplate is substantially free of holes to serve as a shield to prevent inadvertent ignition of materials proximal to the holder.

Abstract: A infrared flare is used as a military decoy for infrared heat seeking missiles. The flare burns a pyrophoric fuel to provide a good simulation of an aircraft spectral signature. To minimize blow-out under extreme wind and high altitude conditions, the flare has an oxygen injector arranged concentrically around the fuel ejector and a shroud sheltering an ignition space just downstream of the fuel ejector. The injected oxygen reacts with a small amount of the fuel to produce a pilot flame in the shroud.

Abstract: A missile includes an annular flare element 18 which is housed between the outer skin of the missile and the propulsion nozzle 14. The flare element allows the propulsion efflux to be as fully expanded as possible while still providing a large area of flare.

Abstract: A smoke grenade comprising a launching device (1), an instantaneous smoke device (2) and an IR-smoke generator (3) is provided with a casing (4) which can be deformed to guiding/supporting fins (4').

Abstract: An emergency flare for road and railway use which changes so a different color during the final stage of illumination, thus warning that burnout is approaching, and thereby allowing time for replacement or other means to warn oncoming traffic.