Abstract: An archaeological sifting basket is disclosed for use at the site of an archaeological dig, said basket comprising a frame, with wire mesh screen attached. The basket is hinged to be collapsible and has a bottom wall made up of two planar areas arranged at an angle to each other for increased flexibility of use.

Abstract: A mechanical separator having a container providing a chamber for receiving plant material, such as herb plants, spice plants and the like, a motor driven substantially flexible member being rotatably supported for substantially free form random thrashing movement within and about the chamber in juxtarelationship for engaging, fragmenting and separating the intrinsic parts of the plant material as desired for flavoring from the waste portions thereof, a screen being provided across a dischargeway opening from the chamber of the container, such screen being of a mesh size to act to permit the fragmented and separated intrinsic parts of the plant material to be discharged therethrough and to act to retain waste portions of the plant material within the chamber.

Abstract: A graduated measuring cup having a sloped transverse wall surface for directing liquid contents toward a centrally located outlet orifice for gravity flow discharge. A sluice valve assembly is attachable to the cup in registration with the outlet orifice for selectively regulating the rate of discharge flow. The sluice valve assembly is detachable from the cup for cleaning or replacement. A strainer basket having an apertured disc inset is positionable over the mouth of the cup for filtering incoming liquids.

Abstract: A device for use in conjunction with a metal detector which will allow the user to dig and sift simultaneously with one hand. The device includes a shovel type scoop with a flashlight built into the handle. The scoop is perforated so that it can be used in the manner of a sifter looking for metal particles or other objects. The holder or handle has a ring attachment for conveniently carrying on a belt. Optionally, the holder scoop may be magnetically treated in order to capture small metallic objects which might otherwise fit through the perforations.