Abstract: A low-powered electronic parking meter which can be powered solely by non-rechargeable, commercially available batteries. The meter includes a coin receptor with unique means for coin detection, slug detection, determination of coin denomination, and jam detection, which require very little power. The coin detection and denomination determination are performed using pivotable lever arms in contact with Piezo strips. The slug detection uses a permanent magnet mounted opposite a reed switch and the jam detection is performed by IR diode emitters and photocells. The meter also includes a processor, a liquid crystal display, a sonar transducer for detecting the presence of vehicles, and an IR transceiver enabling parking authority personnel to communicate with the meter. The components of the meter are operated in three conditions or states including an off condition, an inactive condition, and an active condition, to provide further conservation of power so that the meter is entirely battery operated.

Abstract: A fishing creel which has individual compartments for fish which can be seen through see-through netting is disclosed. Each compartment has a one-way door for easy insertion of the fish. The compartments at the other end are blocked by a sliding panel, or alternatively by an end flap, which can be easily removed to allow access to the fish. The creel can be carried through the use of a shoulder strap or through use of belt loops.