Abstract: A tape measure having a self-powered reel assembly and a housing for receiving the self-powered, reel assembly. The self-powered, reel assembly includes: a primary spool having a measuring tape wound upon the primary spool; a secondary biased spool assembly; and a coupler for connecting the primary spool to the secondary biased spool assembly for retracting the primary spool. In the preferred embodiment, the secondary biased spool assembly includes a spring spool, a spring drive spool, and a backwound spring.

Abstract: A step assembly is stored in the overhang area of a kitchen counter when not in use. The step assembly is deployed into an extended position by kicking a vertically disposed front wall. Springs then cause a linkage to deploy that positions the vertical front wall away from the front of the counter. The front wall is then pivoted into a horizontal plane where it provides a step that enable a user to reach cupboards mounted above the kitchen counter.

Abstract: A tape measure having a self-powered reel assembly and a housing for receiving the self-powered, reel assembly. The self-powered, reel assembly includes: a primary spool having a measuring tape wound upon the primary spool; a secondary biased spool assembly; and a coupler for connecting the primary spool to the secondary biased spool assembly for retracting the primary spool. In the preferred embodiment, the secondary biased spool assembly includes a spring spool having a spring drive spool and a backwound spring.

Abstract: A spear gun includes two spears disposed in laterally spaced relation to one another. A separate trigger is dedicated to each spear. Each spear is received within the lumen of a forward spear guide tube and a rearward spear guide tube. Each forward spear guide tube includes a laterally extending post to which is attached the forward end of an elastomeric member. The rearward end of each elastomeric member engages an inclined notch formed in the trailing end of its associated spear. The trailing end of each spear is notched and the notch is engaged by a mating notch formed in a pivotally mounted detent plate. Pulling a trigger pivots the detent plate so that the notches disengage and the bias on the elastomeric member unloads to propel the spear forwardly. A safety latch prevents pulling of the trigger by preventing pivoting of the detent plate.

Abstract: A training device worn by a golfer includes a first shoe retainer that is secured to a first shoe of the golfer and a second shoe retainer that is secured to a second shoe of the golfer. In a first embodiment, a housing is pivotally mounted to a toe end of the first retainer and a post is mounted to the toe end of the second retainer. An axle is rotatably mounted in the housing and a first tape measure is coiled about the axle and has a first end secured to the axle. A second tape measure is coiled about the axle and has a first end secured to the axle in diametrically opposed relation to the first end of the first tape measure. The axle is biased so that both tape measures are coiled about it when in repose.