Abstract: A strap winch apparatus includes a frame with a drum gear connected to a drum. The drum is configured to receive an end of a strap whereby the strap is wound around or unwound from the drum when the gear is rotated. The frame also includes a braking member to arrest inadvertent reverse rotation of the drum to maintain strap tension. A handle configured to engage with the drum includes a pivotable pawl. One end of the pawl is configured to engage the gear teeth of the drum gear and index the drum gear in order to tension the strap about the drum. An opposite end of the pawl is configured to displace the braking member whereby the gear and drum are permitted to rotate in a direction loosening the strap tension. Typically, the braking member has a gear tooth engaging portion and a striking portion that may be in intermittent contact with the pawl for controlled loosening of the strap tension.

Abstract: An apparatus for moving a toilet seat from a closed position adjacent a toilet bowl to a raised position includes an actuator attached to a foot pedal. Pressing the foot pedal moves the actuator in a forward stroke such that nearing the end of the forward stroke an end of the actuator is pivoted and elements connected to the actuator bear against an underside of the toilet seat, raising the seat away from the bowl.