Abstract: The apparatus is a carrier tape reel assembly formed of two reel halves. The reel halves include hub portions which further include male detent elements which are rotationally symmetric with each other and likewise include female detent elements which are rotationally symmetric with each other. The male and female detent elements, however, include rotationally asymmetric elements to assure that the two halves are properly aligned so that the open tape slots of the two reel halves are properly aligned. The male and female detent elements are further engaged by a longitudinal motion, without the need for rotational movement during engagement. Stacking apertures are formed rotationally midway between adjacent detent elements to permit the stacking of reel halves, whereby the reel halves are facing in the same direction, but are rotated so that the male detent elements pass through the stacking apertures free of detent engagement.

Abstract: The present invention provides an edging strip with integrally molded stakes. The strip of the invention is a single, integrally molded piece, greatly simplifying construction, packaging, shipping, and assembly by the end user. Each strip will present an independent and usable item containing within the one piece the components necessary to position and attach the strip within the ground and to link it with other strips as desired. The integral stakes each also have broad top surfaces which provide a hammering surface for inserting the strip within the ground. The strip uses interlocking semi-stakes at its end points to connect with other strips, providing a full hammering surface when interlocked and providing anchoring points at the points of connection. The disclosed invention may also include support ribs with catches or ledges which act to resist the effects of frost heave and reduce unintentional removal of the strip from the ground.

Abstract: An animal shelter (10) includes a top (20) formed as a unitary shell and shaped to resemble a natural object having an irregular surface, such as a tree stump. An entrance (26) is formed in the top (20) and allows an animal to enter and exit animal shelter (10). Because the top (20) is shaped to resemble a natural object, the animal shelter (10) blends into a natural setting. An extended floor (41) may be attached to the base (40), and an extended covering (28) may be attached to the top (20) adjacent the entrance (26). The extended covering (28) covers the extended floor (41). The extended covering (28) resembles an extension of the natural object, thus further enhancing the appearance of the animal shelter (10). A planter (60), removably seated upon the top (20), may be used to cultivate plants.

Abstract: A latch system is provided having utility in securing a planar member in a closed position within a housing having a portal. A base plate is secured to the planar member and a rotatable member having a generally circular periphery is coupled to the base plate. A cover is secured to the base plate and rotatably retains the rotatable member thereon. The cover includes a generally circular aperture having a diameter less than that of the periphery of the rotatable member, wherein upon assembly the generally circular periphery of the rotatable member opposes the generally circular aperture of the cover. At least one detent protrusion is formed on either the generally circular periphery of the rotatable member or the diameter of the generally circular aperture in the cover. At least one detent recess is formed in the other of the generally circular periphery of the rotatable member or the diameter of the generally circular aperture and opposes the detent protrusion.

Abstract: A latching mechanism having utility in securing a pivotable member in at least one position with respect to a stationary structure. The housing includes a base that is adapted to be mounted adjacent the pivotable member (e.g., a cage door), with the base lying in a plane which is generally parallel to the plane established by the cage door. A pair of spaced flanges is affixed to the base, with each of the flanges extending away from the door and lying in planes which are generally perpendicular to the base. Each of the flanges has two openings which are adapted to slidably receive first and second elongated appendages, with both appendages being slidably held with respect to the housing, and with each appendage having an outer region extending outwardly away from the housing. The two latching appendages are adapted to move in different directions, with the appendage outer regions being configured to engage a portion of the stationary structure (i.e.

Abstract: A latching mechanism having utility in securing a pivotable member with respect to a stationary structure. The housing includes a base that is adapted to be mounted adjacent the pivotable member (e.g., a cage door). A pair of spaced flanges is affixed to the base, with each of the flanges extending away from the door and lying in planes which are generally perpendicular to the base. Each of the flanges has two openings which are adapted to slidably receive first and second elongated appendages, with both appendages being slidably held with respect to the housing, and with each appendage having an outer region extending outwardly away from the housing. The two latching appendages are adapted to move in different directions to engage a portion of the stationary structure (i.e., the cage enclosure) so as to hold the cage door in a closed position. The latching mechanism includes a control device for manipulating the appendages so as to slidably move the latching appendages inwardly (with respect to the housing).

Abstract: A hand-held trotline holder adapted for safety accumulating, storing, and dispensing a trotline having a main line with spaced drop lines carrying hooks. The trotline holder includes an arcuate handgrip and spool-like member that rotates with respect to the handgrip. The spool-like member comprises a hollow cylindrical hub with two circular flanges; one of those flanges is attached at each of the two ends of the hub. The trotline is accumulated around the hub and contained between the two flanges. The hub is adapted to rotate about its central (longitudinal) axis, and the two flanges (which are preferably formed integrally with the hub) therefore rotate in planes perpendicular to the hub's central axis. Rigidly affixed to the outer face of the first flange is a series of peripherally and outwardly opening compartments; each compartment has at least one radially extending slot for storing one or more hooks attached to the drop lines.