Abstract: A rack for conveniently storing or displaying objects such as shop and garden tools, kitchen implements, office supplies and the like, having an array of individually retractable hooks. The hooks rest in an extended, or ready position. When an object is pressed against the rack, any hooks impacted by the object are caused to be moved into a retracted, or out of the way position. Any untouched hooks remain in an extended position, ready to engage and support the object at key points. Retracted hooks automatically return to an extended position when released by the removal of the object from the rack. In this manner, the rack automatically adapts to the shapes and sizes of different objects; thereby permitting objects to be quickly and easily hung on the rack, arranged on the rack in various groupings, and rearranged at any time, all without the need to manually adjust the position of the hooks.

Abstract: A rocket launching pad-like device for inflating and ejecting toy balloons that permits a balloon to be mounted directly on the device, permits the balloon to be inflated while mounted on the device, shields a child's face and eyes during inflation of the balloon, and forcibly ejects the inflated balloon from the device on demand. An efficient ramming surface enables use of the device with balloons of a range of sizes. A docking station may be used to group a plurality of inflation and ejection devices to provide a multiple balloon launching toy.

Abstract: Movement or removal of a display object placed on a base is detected by a switch mechanism for closing an electrical circuit, having an elongated plunger and a device for maintaining the throw length of the switch mechanism substantially constant and independent of the distance the plunger is depressed upon setting of the alarm. Detection of extremely short plunger travel is enabled without special adjustments in the plunger length. A "tilt" switch may be added for added sensitivity. A plurality of bases, each with its own switch, may be grouped with a single signalling device to provide an alarm system. Portions of the circuitry may be grouped in modular form for introduction into the base housing.

Abstract: An article for use as a novelty to provide amusement and interest in the movement of magnets supported therein, which includes an upper magnet suspended by a line from the upper portion of a frame and magnetized so that opposite faces define poles of opposite polarity, and a lower magnet connected by a line to the lower portion of the frame and magnetized so that opposite faces define poles of opposite polarity, which lower magnet is oriented with respect to the upper magnet so that the poles of the upper and lower magnets which are facing each other are of opposite polarity so that the upper and lower magnets attract each other when the lower magnet is positioned proximate to the upper magnet, and which line connecting the lower magnet to the frame is of a length such that the lower magnet is restrained from contacting the upper magnet when the line is fully extended upon positioning the lower magnet proximate to the upper magnet.