Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pencil-sharpening device having a titanium chromium nitride coating disposed on the cutting blade of the device. The titanium chromium nitride coating is metallurgically bonded to the steel blade. The coated blade provides enhanced properties for the pencil-sharpening device.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a pencil-sharpening device having a titanium chromium nitride coating disposed on the cutting blade of the device. The titanium chromium nitride coating is metallurgically bonded to the steel blade. The coated blade provides enhanced properties for the pencil-sharpening device.

Abstract: A bow assembly is removably attachable to an open top truck bed for supporting a tarpaulin cover and includes a plurality of relatively light weight and easy to handle components for quick assembly and disassembly by one person. The assembled structure includes a plurality of spaced transverse bow units and headboard connected by longitudinally aligned removable supports with the bow units being telescopically slidable on supports attachable to the sideboards of the truck to permit flexing as cargo is loaded or unloaded. The headboard protects the cover from displacement by headwinds and includes means for deflecting water off the sides of the cargo bed.

Abstract: A flexible cover is provided for an open top truck bed and includes means for rolling by one person from one edge at one side of the bed in a cylindrical roll across the bed transversely of the width thereof to a position of storage at the opposite side of the bed. A length of cord is secured at one end to a generally central point on the roll starting edge of the cover so as to roll up with the cover and leave a trailing length which can be grasped and pulled to effectively unwind the rolled cover back across the truck bed. The cord also serves as a tie-down for the cover when unrolled. Fastening and tensioning means as required are provided for the cover in rolled and unrolled positions.