Abstract: A file card container is disclosed which includes a hollow base having an open top and front and rear portions. A cover is provided for enclosing the open top of the base. A first pivot interconnection pivotally connects the cover to the rear portion of the base. A carrier plate having front and rear ends is slidably mounted within the hollow base. A second pivot interconnection pivotally connects the cover to the rear of the carrier plate. The axis of rotation of the first and second pivot interconnections are parallel with the first pivot connection being disposed rearwardly of the second pivot connection when the cover is in the closed position. A spring is coupled to the base and the carrier plate is capable of urging the carrier rearwardly and the cover to an open position. A device is included to lock the cover in the closed position against the action of the spring.

Abstract: A computer system is proposed for finding and displaying the depth and depth related values of an object in an aquatic environment in which and LCD display is subdivided into segments each representing a fraction of the total depth range in which the system is operating as well as a fraction of the transit time for the transmission of pulses within the depth range. Each segment is addressed and activated in response to the presence of a receiver output in the microprocessor for a given number of consecutive time-scans, thus providing a quasi-analog visual display of depth on the array of the segmented scale.

Abstract: A dual element, spring-biased clamping device such as a bookend is proposed in which the clamping pressure exerted by the elements can be varied while maintaining the relative separation of the elements. One element comprises a polygonal wall to which a tethering cord is attached, the cord being spring-mountedly held within another element. In use, successive walls of the polygonal element can be brought to bear against the retained objects in an over-center relationship of the tethering cord with edge portions disposed between adjacent walls, the over-center relationship causing the polygonal element to snap tightly into place against the retained books.

Abstract: A pencil sharpener which includes a sliding safety shield preventing operation of the sharpener with the pencil drawer removed and further preventing a pencil to be inserted into the sharpener so as to actuate the cutter assembly unless the shavings drawer is in its fully closed position. In addition a stop for a positive stop of the sharpening process is provided in transverse relation to the cutter assembly aperture so as to impinge upon the cutter assembly and stop the cutter assembly at a zero clearance position with a holder therefor, so as to prohibit the formation of a burr or other irregularity on the pencil point.

Abstract: A multi-range weight scale which includes an adjustable cam that changes the weight arms-mechanism so that the scales will weigh a normal weight load or twice the normal weight load.

Abstract: This invention sets forth a wind tracking device particularly useful on sailing vessels for determining the best sailing direction relative to the wind. The reference card is provided with color panels which cooperate with lines on the dome to indicate best direction. Further, the card has circular lines about the axis which cooperate with a dot on the axis of the dome to indicate a 360.degree. level condition around a horizontal plane.