Abstract: An apparatus for use in potting plants includes a tray upon which potting materials may be placed. The tray has a generally planar base portion with a peripheral edge. A support mechanism is secured relative to the upper surface of the tray and is rotatable about a rotation axis. A plate structure sized to support a plant receptacle is supported on the support mechanism for common rotation therewith. In one form of the invention, a rim extends upwardly from an upper surface around a majority of the edge so that a gap exists in the rim. In another form of the invention, the plate structure has a retaining element positioned to engage the support mechanism to resist radial displacement during rotation. The tray may include a handle. The rotational axis may be offset from the center of the tray to provide a work area for placing the potting materials.

Abstract: A passive deflection gauge to detect peak deflection in a structural material or system since a given time is disclosed. The gauge includes any type of mechanical deflection sensor using a moveable or extensible core for measuring deflection. A stop moves the core only if a strain greater than the previously occurring maximum strain is present in the structural material or system. Any other movement of the stop will not move the core. Furthermore, a friction member may be incorporated to prevent spurious movement of the core.

Abstract: Devices and methodology are provided for measuring mechanical strain in a structural member. The devices and methodology utilize a material which undergoes a change in phase when strained so that measurement of the phase change indicates strain. Preferably the phase change material is a transformation induced plasticity steel alloy. The elements may be configured as gauges secured to a structural member, but also the elements may perform as part of the structure. A plurality of elements may be organized into a monitoring system, either passive or active, for a complex structure.