Abstract: An apparatus, such as an edger, trimmer or lawnmower, for cutting vegetation using a flexible non-metallic line member extending into a cutting plane from a rotating head (e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,708,967, 3,826,068; 3,859,776). At the user's signal during cutting, the line member is fed to a certain discrete length (2 inches) from the rotating head under direct mechanical control (no free wheeling). Then the line member is automatically relocked within the head.

Abstract: Apparatus for cutting vegetation with a rotating head carrying non-metallic cutting line extended into a cutting plane. Additional line is extended into the cutting plane by pushing a ball member against the ground while rotating the head. The ball member moves inwardly for releasing a spool carrying coiled cutting line to rotate a predetermined angular displacement in the head. After the cutting line length is extended, the spool is secured automatically against further rotation within the head. A cover is releasably secured to the head by a twist-lock connection to allow the ball member and spool to remove from the head for rewinding, etc. Rotation of the spool within the head is regulated by uniform interlocking, straight teeth that are rugged, long wearing and provide positive control without any possibility of the spool "free wheeling" in the head.