Abstract: Methods and apparatus to couple valve shafts and closure members are described. An example coupling apparatus includes an expansion pin to be disposed in a bore defined by a first aperture of a valve shaft and a second aperture of a closure member. The first and second apertures are coaxially aligned when the valve shaft is coupled to the closure member. A first tapered pin is disposed in a first opening of the expansion pin adjacent a first end of the expansion pin and a second tapered pin is disposed in a second opening of the expansion pin adjacent a second end of the expansion pin. The first tapered pin causes the expansion pin to expand at a first location when the first tapered pin is disposed in the first opening and the second tapered pin causes the expansion pin to expand at a second location different than the first location when the second tapered is disposed in the second opening.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus to couple valve shafts and closure members are described. An example coupling apparatus includes an expansion pin to be disposed in a bore defined by a first aperture of a valve shaft and a second aperture of a closure member. The first and second apertures are coaxially aligned when the valve shaft is coupled to the closure member. A first tapered pin is disposed in a first opening of the expansion pin adjacent a first end of the expansion pin and a second tapered pin is disposed in a second opening of the expansion pin adjacent a second end of the expansion pin. The first tapered pin causes the expansion pin to expand at a first location when the first tapered pin is disposed in the first opening and the second tapered pin causes the expansion pin to expand at a second location different than the first location when the second tapered is disposed in the second opening.

Abstract: An apparatus for use as a toy by an animal, for example a dog, to either fetch carry or chew includes a main section with at least one protrusion extending therefrom that resembles a branch in appearance. The toy is formed of any of a number of materials including rubber, plastic, or wood including wood composites and is solid. It is either rigid or flexible. A flavoring (scent) is added, if desired. The toy is adapted to float by including a material therein that is lighter than water or it is adapted to glow in the dark, as desired, by the addition of a fluorescent material that is either included in the material from which the toy is made or the flourescent material is applied thereto as a coating. The toy may be segmented (i.e., notched) so as to break off into smaller segments, as is useful for smaller animals or, alternatively, to extend the life of the toy. Various textured surfaces including camouflage colorings are anticipated as are straight or curved main sections.