Abstract: A hand-operated tool includes a tool head having a plurality of tines, a handle extending from the tool head, and a cutting member secured to the tool head and having a point at a free end. The tool head is pivotably secured to the handle to pivot about a longitudinal axis between a fork configuration and a rake configuration and a lock releasably locks the tool head relative to the handle in each of the fork and rake configurations. The handle includes an arm, a rear grip including a loop handle located at an end of the arm opposite the tool head, and a fore grip including a knob located between the tool head and the rear grip. The rear grip and the fore grip are each secured against rotation about a longitudinal axis of the handle.

Abstract: A lawn and garden hand tool includes a tool head, a handle rearwardly extending from the tool head, and a plastic coating covering at least a portion of the handle. The handle has a generally cylindrical shaped rearward grip and a loop extending in a downward direction and connecting forward and rearward ends of the rearward grip. The handle also has a forward grip spaced apart from the rearward grip and located forward of the rearward grip toward the tool head. The forward grip includes a generally bulb shaped knob extending in a upward and forward direction. The tool head, the rearward grip and the forward member are preferably a unitary one-piece cast aluminum component.

Abstract: A collapsible wheelbarrow includes a rigid front bracket, a wheel rotatably secured to the front bracket, and first and second handle arms pivotably attached to the front bracket. The first and second handle arms are laterally pivotable about first and second pivot axes respectively. The first and second pivot axes are each spaced apart from the axis of rotation of the wheel. Preferably a clamping device removably applies a clamping force between the first and second handle arms and clamps a rigid tray between the first and second handle arms. The tray is preferably interconnected with the first and second handle arms to permit relative movement in a lateral direction and to prevent relative movement in a forward rearward direction. Preferably, the front bracket has spaced apart upper and lower walls and the first and second handle arms extend between the upper and lower walls.

Abstract: A dental instrument with a large injection molded plastic handle has an elongated generally cylindrical symmetrical shape with first and second spaced apart ends. Anti-slip peripheral groves or slots are molded into the handle adjacent the first and second ends. Subsequent to the molding process, knurls are applied adjacent the first and second ends to improve the anti-slip characteristics of the handle. At least some of the knurling is positioned between the peripherally located grooves or slots. Stainless steel cones are affixed to the respective ends of the handle, either by ultrasonic welding or by positioning the cones in the molds, as inserts, and directly molding the plastic around retaining ends of the cones. Tips or points are press-fit and/or adhesively bonded into channels in the cones of the instrument. A single ended instrument carries a smooth, closed, cap at one of the ends.

Abstract: A weigh scale platform having a first, closed position providing a horizontal weighing surface and a second, open position for supporting flats in a substantially vertical orientation. The platform includes a base and first and second portions supported by the base. The first and second portions are horizontal and co-planar in the first position and are connected by a first hinge. The second portion is connected to the rear edge of the base by a second hinge. In the second position the first portion rotates about the first hinge to a substantial vertical orientation and is closed in place. The second portion rotates around the second hinge to support the first portion. The base also includes a ridge and a channel to support and restrain the lower edge of a vertically supported flat.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for adjustably leveling a machine base, such as a postal scale, wherein the machine base does not have to be turned over to accomplish the leveling adjustment. The apparatus includes a threaded support shaft having a non-circular configuration at one end and a leveling wheel having a threaded passage capable of receiving and mating with the threaded support shaft. A retaining structure is capable of retaining the rotational movement of the threaded support shaft and is capable of restricting movement of the threaded support shaft relative to the base.