Abstract: A dispenser is provided that includes a base and a container. The container is positioned above the base for holding articles to dispensed, such as candy. The base includes a channel in communication with the container to dispense the articles. The channel has, near a first end, an internal opening for receiving the articles held in the container and an external opening near the opposing end for dispensing the articles. An advancement mechanism, such as an auger, for example, is located within the channel for moving the articles from the internal opening of the channel to the external opening of the channel. At least one gear, driven by a motor, is connected to the advancement mechanism for moving the advancement mechanism in response to the activation of the motor. A stir stick is attached to at least one side of the at least one gear and extends upward from the base and into the container at a position adjacent the internal opening of the channel.

Abstract: A retractable pet leash includes a leash housing, a gear element located within the leash housing, a channel extending along a length of the leash housing, a bag container integrated into either a first side panel or a second side panel of the leash housing, and a pull trigger in communication with the gear element. The leash housing includes the first side panel secured to the second side panel, a back portion including a handle, and a front portion including an opening through which a string portion of the leash extends and retracts. The gear element is configured for extending and retracting the string portion of the leash. The channel is configured for receiving a removable coupling member of a flashlight. The pull trigger is alterable between a retracted position and a pulled position. In the retracted position, the gear element is locked. In the pulled position, the gear element is unlocked.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a collapsible or foldable structure suitable for a variety of applications, such as animal bed, animal shelter or animal carrier. The structure in its collapsed state forms an animal bed and when fully erect forms an animal shelter or carrier. The structure comprises a first layer and a second layer that are fused together by a seam or a crease. When in the collapsed stated, the second layer forms the base of the pet bed and the first layer is collapsed against the second layer to form a pet bed. The first layer is comprised of flexible or semi-flexible material that can be lifted upward and separated from the second layer to form the roof and sides of an animal shelter or carrier when fully erect. The first layer may include seams or creases for ease of conversion and structural stability. The first and second layers may be formed from semi-flexible foam covered with fabric.

Abstract: A retractable pet leash includes a leash housing, a gear element located within the leash housing, a channel extending along a length of the leash housing, a bag container integrated into either a first side panel or a second side panel of the leash housing, and a pull trigger in communication with the gear element. The leash housing includes the first side panel secured to the second side panel, a back portion including a handle, and a front portion including an opening through which a string portion of the leash extends and retracts. The gear element is configured for extending and retracting the string portion of the leash. The channel is configured for receiving a removable coupling member of a flashlight. The pull trigger is alterable between a retracted position and a pulled position. In the retracted position, the gear element is locked. In the pulled position, the gear element is unlocked.