Abstract: An authentication system is provided with a room-security device, and an information processing apparatus installed in a controlled area controlled by the room-security device, in which the room-security device and the information processing apparatus are connected in a network. The room-security device obtains, from a user, identification information, and transmits the identification information to the information processing apparatus, if the user is permitted to enter a room based on the obtained identification information. The information processing apparatus receives the identification information. If it is detected that the user is alone in the controlled area based on the received identification information, the information processing apparatus performs authentication based on the received identification information instead of asking the user to enter authentication information to obtain the authentication information.

Abstract: A universal post having a tapered elongated member with a proximal end and a distal end such that the proximal end is larger in size than the distal end of the elongated member for receiving one of a trash receptacle and a mail box thereon. A stabilizer is disposed orthogonal to and radially extending from the distal end of the elongated member. The stabilizer being substantially greater in length than width for placement on a ground surface so that a weighted member, received thereupon the stabilizer together with the stabilizer, supports the elongated member in a substantially vertical, stationary position with respect to the ground surface. The universal post capable of use on a flat paved surface and on a flat unpaved surface with the addition of a spike. The universal post further usable as a movable fence.

Abstract: Various embodiments related to a tree guard are disclosed. One embodiment provides a modular tree guard assembly. Various other embodiments disclosed include one or more of the following: a multi-purpose top rail unit facilitating flexible installation of various side panel units and top rail accessories; modular side panel units including decorative units and urine guard units; corner and other post units; and various adjustable foot units. In one embodiment, a sign holder unit of the tree guard assembly is provided with different tamper proof bolts than are other elements of the assembly such that control over signage on the tree guard may be effectively given to a different entity than an entity with control over assembly of the rest of the tree guard unit. Various other embodiments related to tree guards are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is a stable, customizable umbrella system which includes one or more surface mount components which may be fixedly or selectively attached to an umbrella support pole.

Abstract: A mailbox support has an attachment for attaching the mailbox support to the ground, a first plate attached to the attachment, a second plate rotatably attached to the first plate, a fixture attaching to the second plate for supporting the mailbox support and, an abutment for limiting rotation of the second plate relative to the first plate and for assisting in installing the attachment to the ground. A method for installing a support into the ground includes placing a first plate on a second plate, the second plate having an attachment for attaching the second plate to the ground, and utilizing the first plate and the second plate to drive the attachment into the ground. The first plate and the second plate are joined so that first and second plates may rotate relative to each other to properly orient the first plate.

Abstract: A golf tool retention clip attaches to a brim of a hat and retains the golf tool where the wearer of the hat has ready and easy access to the golf tool during play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip also retains a ball marker for ready and easy access to the ball marker during play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip is inconspicuous to the player and does not interfere with play of the game of golf. The golf tool retention clip has opposing panels with are coupled together and which side onto the brim of the hat with the golf tool positioned on the upper surface of the brim while the ball marker positioned on the lower surface of the brim. The golf tool has features to perform multiple functions associated with the game of golf.

Abstract: A threaded stake system to be drilled into the ground to support construction form boards when erecting a frame. The threaded stake system comprises a stake including a shaft having a sharp tip on a first end, a polygonal shaped head on a second end, and at least one thread located near the sharp tip. The stake comprising at least one of metal, plastic, reinforced metal, reinforced plastic, polymer, fiber reinforced polymer, and composite.

Abstract: A potted plant holder assembly includes a bracket holder having a bracket holder housing, a bracket holder base flange carried by the bracket holder housing and a bracket holder cap flange carried by the bracket holder housing in spaced-apart relationship to the bracket holder base flange. A plurality of pot holder brackets is carried by the bracket holder base flange and the bracket holder cap flange of the bracket holder.

Abstract: A thermally insulated container is disclosed for maintaining thermo energy of an object. A first anchor is pivotably secured to the container and pivots to a position below the container for engaging a soil layer and preventing rotation of the container relative to a ground surface. A first locking arm extends between the container and the first anchor for locking the first anchor relative to the container. A second anchor is pivotably secured to the container and pivots to a position below the container for engaging a soil layer and preventing rotation of the container relative to the ground surface. A second locking arm extends between the container and the second anchor for locking the second anchor relative to the container.

Abstract: A knock down flag pole assembly is provided including a base, a ferrule, and an elongate post. The base may include a coupling with a pocket having a coupling member or portion configured to removably couple to the ferrule. The coupling secures the ferrule to the base, but also permits the flag pole to be knocked out from the base.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a support pole with a prefabricated engaging thread and method of using the same. The support pole is especially suitable for use with mailbox posts, birdhouse posts, volleyball posts, fences, or the like. The support pole may be securely inserted or removed from the ground without the need for tools. The support pole has an extended arm that extends in a substantially perpendicular manner with respect to the pole. The extended arm allows a user to apply a force perpendicular to the main support pole so as to help the user rotate the pole and therein force the pole into the ground.

Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems and methods for supporting and holding items including surfboards, fishing rods, beach items and tabletops in horizontal positions raised above ground surfaces such as at the beach, and be easily transported, assembled, and disassembled when not being used. The racks can include a pair of horizontal beams. Each of the beams can have legs pivotally attached to ends of each beam. The legs can have storage positions with the legs folded up and parallel to the beams, and extended positions with the legs perpendicular to the beams and having lower ends staked into the grounds. The rack can support tabletops and surfboards in horizontal flat positions on top of the assembled horizontal beams. Fishing rods can be stored in horizontal positions in cradle shaped concave recesses so that the fishing rods can be between the surfboards/table tops and the horizontal beams. A storage bag can be used to carry and transport a folded tabletop and folded legs and beams.

Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of a tower foundation system for an above-ground tower. For example, according to one representative embodiment, a tower for supporting a structure above the ground includes a foundation and a second support column section. The foundation includes a first support column section and a plurality of arms that extend radially outward away from an outer surface of the first support column. Additionally, the foundation includes a plurality of elongate anchors coupled to the plurality of arms. The first and second support column sections include each include a plurality of engagement elements engageable with each other to splice the first and second support column sections together. More specifically, the second support column section is insertable into and rests upon the first support column section such that the plurality of engagement elements engage each other.

Abstract: A line post anchoring device for a roadway cable barrier system includes a lower helical anchor to which a detachable line post socket member is secured. The helical anchor and line post socket of each line post anchoring device have mating coupling sections that are preassembled and hydraulically screwed into the ground in a single operation. Each socket includes interior guide plates for properly guiding and positioning a line post therein, such that the cabling system can be effectively strung under tension at the same time the anchoring devices are installed in the ground. Damaged sockets are easily replaced with minimal disruption to the surrounding soil by backing the helical anchor out of the ground only so far as necessary to detach and replace the damaged socket, and then reinserting the helical anchor in the same location.

Abstract: A cup holder includes a base having a cup-receiving central portion, a number of cup holding elongated members extending upward around the central portion to hold a cup in place so that it is not overturned or blown away by the wind, and a number of openings extending upward from a lower surface of the base to receive the cup holding elongated members of another, similar cup holder so that the cup holders can be stacked for storage. The cup holder may include a removably attached, downward extending member for attachment to a soft soil surface. In one version, the cup holding elongated members and the openings are tapered, with the openings extending within the cup holding elongated members. In other versions, the openings are placed within the base in patterns similar to the pattern of the cup holding elongated members, with the patterns being spaced apart from one another.

Abstract: Surface anchor with automatic cover, for firmly and securely fixing a functional surface element, which includes a surface anchoring device (1) to be cemented in a perforation in the ground, with a tubular surface anchoring structure (3) inside which is attached a coupling device on which is screwed, using a simple quick locking screw, a support device (2) for a parasol or other functional surface device, with an automatic covering device (31) that plugs the device when not in use, preventing tripping accidents, and the ingress of external bodies.

Abstract: A deployable collapsible sign assembly having a stake capable of being disposed within the ground. The stake having an upper plate. A first vertical member slidably disposed over the stake, and a second vertical member slidably disposed within the first vertical member. The second vertical member having a bottom capable of contacting the upper plate. The second vertical member having a second vertical member aperture that is higher on one side then the other to create an offset to hold a horizontal member, to hold a sign therebelow.

Abstract: A decoy display stand powered by air flow or wind force is provided including a vertical stake and a horizontal frame. The frame includes vertical support rods and a horizontal bar having a central horizontal frame and two horizontal extension frames. The vertical support rods are disposed at the outer ends of the horizontal extension frames and receive figures such as animal decoys or seasonal ornaments. The stake is received by the central horizontal frame and permits 360 degree rotation of the central horizontal frame around the stake with wind or manual energy. The figures are designed to capture energy and facilitate the rotation of the frame about the stake. A fastener is provided adjacent the central horizontal frame and the stake to manage rotation of the frame in varying degrees between free rotation and no rotation and, in some cases, adjust the height of the frame from the ground.

Abstract: A support stand device for a rebar bender featuring a base with a rebar bender mount; three leg mounts disposed in the base in a symmetrical configuration, three legs removably engagable in the leg mounts; securing means for securing the legs in the respective leg mounts; spike shafts disposed near the bottom ends of each leg; a spike slidably disposed in each spike shaft, the spikes can slide between at least a down position wherein the spike is extended downwardly toward and optionally into a ground surface and an up position wherein the spike is pulled upwardly in the spike shaft and out of the ground surface; securing means for securing the spikes in a position; and striking blocks disposed on the top end of each spike.

Abstract: A garden edge spike includes: a tapered spike portion having a lower spike and an upper C-shaped portion having a plurality of grooves on an outer edge thereof; and a holder, the holder having a holding portion including plural flanges, and a coupling portion that slideably engages one or more of the plurality of grooves.

Abstract: A bird feeder that includes a bird feed holder having open top and bottom ends, a plurality of feeding ports disposed in a sidewall defining the holder, a plurality of perches each associated with an inlet of an associated feeding port and a removable base for engaging with the bottom end of the holder, the removable base having a closed position for sealing the bottom end of the holder so as to retain the bird feed therein and an open position in which the base is removed from the holder to enable access to the bottom end of the holder. One embodiment has a manually operated latch member supported by the base and supported for radial engagement so as to enable releasable securing of the removable base to the holder. In another embodiment a manually operated latch couples to a main body portion, the latch being supported for rotation with respect to the main body portion to releasably secure the base assembly to the housing. Also disclosed is a feeder support apparatus.

Abstract: Devices, apparatus, systems and methods for supporting and holding items including surfboards, fishing rods, beach items and tabletops in horizontal positions raised above ground surfaces such as at the beach, and be easily transported, assembled, and disassembled when not being used. The racks can include a pair of horizontal beams. Each of the beams can have legs pivotally attached to ends of each beam. The legs can have storage positions with the legs folded up and parallel to the beams, and extended positions with the legs perpendicular to the beams and having lower ends staked into the grounds. The rack can support tabletops and surfboards in horizontal flat positions on top of the assembled horizontal beams. Fishing rods can be stored in horizontal positions in cradle shaped concave recesses so that the fishing rods can be between the surfboards/table tops and the horizontal beams. A storage bag can be used to carry and transport a folded tabletop and folded legs and beams.

Abstract: A frame assembly for supporting an extendable wall member of a portable shelter on a foundation. The frame assembly includes a plurality of frame members that are operably secured together. The frame members are positionable between a first configuration, in which the wall member is extended, and a second configuration, in which the wall member is retracted. At least one frame member includes an end that is disposed adjacent the foundation. Furthermore, the frame assembly includes a foot member with a support portion. The foot member is pivotably coupled to the end of the frame member to pivot between a first position, in which the support portion is disposed between the end and the foundation to support the frame member on the foundation, and a second position, in which the support portion is disposed away from an area between the end and the foundation.

Abstract: A garden item hanger assembly. The assembly has an upright with a first and second portion. The first end of the first portion and the second end of the second portion can be connected together by using a medial connection portion which provides a flush surface. The assembly also has a ground engaging stake with a self centering socket and a plurality of set screws to set the upright. The ground engaging stake utilizes a plurality of moment resisting surfaces to maintain an upright position against both a first and second moment about the ground engaging stake applied by the item load.

Abstract: The Rotating Billboard is an improvement of the structures which are now being used by outdoor billboard operators in the industry. The current standard of the contemporary billboard structure consists of a steel frame on which a high resolution advertising material is tied using steel wires and illuminated using front-lit metal halides using steel light supports. The weight of the frame is supported by a series of web-like large steel angle bars and thrushes engineered to fully secure the structure in case of adverse weather conditions. The base is bolted through a concrete slab which is buried deeply beneath the ground. The Rotating Billboard is a smaller structure and may be strategically located on areas where the contemporary billboard could not. The frame of the Rotating Billboard is composed of four sides and is illuminated from the inside.

Abstract: A beach umbrella stand is provided including a foot operated drive assembly. A pole of a beach umbrella stand has a hollow interior portion housing the foot operated drive assembly. The foot operated drive assembly includes a ratchet assembly operated by a foot pedal. The ratchet assembly further includes an auger mounted at least partially within the pole, for driving into the sand. The ratchet assembly is positioned for operation of a pedal by a user's foot.

Abstract: A golf tool capable of performing multiple manipulation tasks associated with the play of the game of golf has a body of a first material and inserts of a second material. The inserts are user removable and replaceable relative to the body of the golf tool. The inserts will be associated with tasks which require a relatively strong and durable material in order to ensure an acceptable life span for performance of their respective tasks. Cutting or scrapping operations are such tasks. The use of durable inserts provide for the body of the golf tool to be considerable less expensive to manufacture using lighter and softer materials than that material utilized for the inserts. Replacement of the insert with a replacement insert, supplied with the golf tool, is an option when the respective deployed insert becomes worn or dull. Removal of certain inserts provide for easier sharpening of cutting edges.

Abstract: A mailbox support has an attachment for attaching the mailbox support to the ground, a first plate attached to the attachment, a second plate rotatably attached to the first plate, a fixture attaching to the second plate for supporting the mailbox support and, an abutment for limiting rotation of the second plate relative to the first plate and for assisting in installing the attachment to the ground. A method for installing a support into the ground includes placing a first plate on a second plate, the second plate having an attachment for attaching the second plate to the ground, and utilizing the first plate and the second plate to drive the attachment into the ground. The first plate and the second plate are joined so that first and second plates may rotate relative to each other to properly orient the first plate.

Abstract: A foundation for a structure comprises a plurality of segments. To build the foundation, a foundation bed is excavated, and a stable, substantially level and horizontal subbase is built in the foundation bed. A foundation segment of the structure is set down on the subbase, such that at least three vertically adjustable support poles fixedly attached to the foundation segment contact reinforced points of support on the subbase. A remainder of the foundation bed is then filled with foundation mass to a level above a bottom rim of the foundation segment.

Abstract: A device installed at the base of a vertical post used to stabilize the post in an upright vertical plumb condition and prevent the post from leaning. The device is comprised of a flat base (1) manufactured in two halves so that when placed together has a geometric shape opening (3) of the same size of the post the device is to be installed around. The device base contains multiple secondary penetrations (2) of the cross-sectional shape of the anchoring stakes (9) to be used. The device is installed at the post base (8) by placing the two halves around the post and joining together at along a common line (5). The two halves are affixed together using a mending plate (7) and screws (6) or other type methods not shown. The anchoring stakes (9) are then inserted through the secondary penetrations (2) to affix the device to the ground.

Abstract: An anti-tipping container support system for supporting a container above a ground surface, the container comprising a substantially horizontal bar running across an outer wall of the container, the system comprising a support portion fixedly attached to the ground surface in a substantially perpendicular relationship to the ground surface, a lifting portion comprising a lever rotatably coupled to the support portion in substantially a T-orientation relative to the support portion, the lever comprising a handle and at least two connecting claws pivotally attached to the lever on opposite sides of the handle and substantially perpendicular to the lever, each connecting claw comprising a groove, such that when a manual downward force is applied to the handle with the bar of the container engaged in the grooves of the connecting claws, the container is lifted and supported off the ground surface.

Abstract: An animal head positioning device for supporting the head of a big game animal for a photograph. The device includes an elongated shaft having an upper end and a lower end for being driven within the ground and a cradle mounted to the upper end of the shaft for supporting a head of a game animal in an upright position. The cradle may be comprised of a U-shaped structure or a V-shaped structure and has ball tips on outer ends. The shaft generally has a ring-shaped flange for separating a first portion of the shaft positioned above the ground surface from a second portion of the shaft below the ground surface. The shaft includes a lower segment and an upper segment removably connected in a telescopic manner. A friction reducing layer may also be utilized to allow for easier insertion of the upper segment within the lower segment.

Abstract: An animal head positioning device for efficiently supporting the head of a big game animal for a photograph. The animal head positioning device generally includes an elongated shaft having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end is for being driven within the ground and a cradle mounted to the upper end of the elongated shaft for supporting a head of a game animal in an upright position. The cradle may be comprised of a U-shaped structure or a V-shaped structure and has ball tips on outer ends. The elongated shaft generally has a ring-shaped flange for separating a first portion of the elongated shaft positioned above the ground surface from a second portion of the elongated shaft positioned below the ground surface.

Abstract: An improved bow holder is comprised of a bow cradle, at least one extension member and a base. The bow cradle is comprised of a body, a guide and a limb rest. The guide receives and holds the limb of a bow and is attached to the top of the body. The limb rest is comprised of a pair of extension arms pivotally attached to the body, upright arms projecting from each extension arm and a stop. The extension arms and upright arms securely hold the lower limb and cam of a bow. The base is comprised of a stem for insertion into a ground surface and a pair of pedals for applying ground insertion force to the stem. The bow cradle is attached to the base, or if a higher bow holding position is desired, an extension member.

Abstract: A post assembly (20) for a hollow post. (12) includes an elongated support (14), preferably a standard pipe, at least one fixture (10), and, optionally, a mount (100). The fixture (10) includes a fitting (22) having a bore (28) for receiving the elongated support (14), and a web (24) that extends from the fitting (22) to support a plurality of friction plates (26) adapted to engage the inner walls of the hollow post (12). When employed, the mount (100) allows for adjustment of the vertical alignment of the elongated support (14). The elongated support (14) is attached to a bracket (102) which is positioned over a base (104) having a plurality of members (106) extending upward through holes in the bracket. Movement of adjustment members (112) positioned between the base (104) and bracket (102) allow for adjustment of the angle of the elongated support (14). A method of installation using the fixture and mounts of the invention is also provided.

Abstract: A kit for suspending a sign is disclosed herein. The kit includes first and second column anchors operable to be mounted in the ground. Each column anchor has a plurality of fins facing in different directions from one another and a conical tip. The kit also includes first and second columns individually receivable in one of the first and second column anchors and selectively removable. Each of the columns has a plurality of through-apertures. The kit also includes a plurality of sets of eye-bolts and nuts, each individually receivable in one of the plurality of through-apertures. The kit also includes a plurality of cable members having latches or S-hooks at both ends and a stretchable member extending between the latches or S-hooks.

Abstract: The adjustable stand is a freestanding, inverted U-shaped structure made from metal tubing that has telescoping vertical members connected to a telescoping crossbar, which adjusts the width of the stand so that the stand is adjustable both in height and width. The upper portion of the structure is also pivotally adjustable, providing the stand with angular adjustment. Hooks may be clamped onto the crossbar or onto the vertical members. The device can provide support for hunting equipment, weapons, clothing, backpacks, and the like. The vertical members have feet that may be staked to the ground for stable support.

Abstract: A bendable mailbox or sign post comprises a foundation defined at one of a dirt, a concrete, and an asphalt surface. A top assembly releasably couples with the foundation and has a plate and a stub extending upward from the plate. The elongated post extends vertically from a bottom end connected with the top assembly. A resilient interconnection is provided between the post and the top assembly, whereby the post pivots about the bottom end and deflects from its vertical orientation when a lateral force is applied to the post and the post returns to the vertical orientation when no lateral force is applied. A frangible interconnection may be provided between the resilient interconnection member and one of the post and the stub.

Abstract: A barbecue kit includes a threaded rod having a bore in its interior along its longitudinal axis. An elongated stake having a sharp and a blunt end loosely fits into the interior bore of the threaded rod. The combination of rod and stake include a functional mechanism for allowing the threaded rod to act as a slide hammer to drive the stake into the ground without allowing the rod to fall along the entire length of the stake. A grill having a handle includes a plate with a substantially circular cut-out. The distance and configuration of the cut-out and handle are dimensioned in such a way that the grill can be hung at any place on the threaded rod with the circular cut-out engaging the threads. A pan suitable for holding items to be cooked, or charcoal, or like fuel suitable for cooking, has a like handle which is nevertheless removable and reversibly mountable on the pan. The pan can be similarly hung on the rod either with its hollow or with its substantially flat side up on the threaded rod.

Abstract: A preferably weather resistant multi-section upright stanchion assembly for a construction site document storage apparatus, a real estate display sign and the like. The stanchion assembly includes a plurality of elongated substantially similar stanchion sections and a ground-engaging tip. Each stanchion section includes an elongated body having a hollow first end thereof and a second end thereof sized for slidable, releasable, lockable engagement into said first end of the next adjacent stanchion section to facilitate ease of height adjustment of the stanchion assembly. The stanchion assembly releasably connects at one end into a mating support cavity formed between the front and back panels of the inner frame of the storage apparatus. A single or two spaced upright stanchion assemblies support two horizontal spaced display panel support arms which, in turn, support a preferably multi-panel display sign.

Abstract: A post anchor/anchor adapter system is unitary cast or machined steel or the like. An anchor/adaptor alone is driven alone into a hole cut in in-place concrete. The system includes an anchor extension tube for driving into soft soil. The inventive anchor/adaptor has a body in the form of an elongate square tube having radius-curved corners vertically driven into a round receiving hole, forming creases and a secure anchor. The tube has an upper female portion for a post and a lower female portion for an extender and is divided by a horizontal plug wall integral with the tube structure. The lower female portion of the anchor/adapter tapers outward towards its lower open end allowing for an interference fit with the driven tube acting as an anchor. The female portion upper end has crescent-shaped tabs defining a disk sized to plug the drilled hole.

Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus and a method for supporting a movable or stationary decoy displayed on a stake for attracting waterfowl where the decoy has a neck portion, a head portion, a body portion, and a stake that protrudes from and may be securely attached to the body portion of the decoy. A tubular receiving member having an internal channel is provided for loosely receiving the stake. The tubular receiving member can be made of black PVC conduit or other suitable materials and has an upper end that is flared to provide an opening that is larger than the internal channel in the tubular receiving member and a lower end that is sealed to prevent water from entering the tubular receiving member. The lower end of the tubular receiving member is adapted to be mounted in the ground.

Abstract: The present invention provides umbrella anchors and accessories that facilitate the use of umbrellas over a wide variety of ground surfaces. An anchor may have a generally tubular shape with a bore that receives the bottom end of a pole of an umbrella. The anchor may have a tip that penetrates the ground in response to application of linear force, and a flange that limits the depth of penetration of the anchor into the ground and adds stability. Alternatively, an anchor may have a flange positioned distally to lie underneath a deck or other man-made surface. An anchor may have a flange that is angled relative to the remainder of the anchor to facilitate placement of the umbrella at a angle relative to ground level. A cover may prevent entry of debris into the anchor bore. Modular tables or accessory trays may be attached around the pole of the umbrella.

Abstract: A multi-functional hammock assembly for providing user comfort and enjoyment may include first and second elongated rectilinear poles, a hammock, and first and second sleeves slidably positioned about the bottom ends of the first and second poles. The hammock assembly may further include at least one accessory and a mechanism for effectively anchoring the at least one accessory to the first and second poles. The assembly may further include a mechanism for synchronously rotating at least one of the first and second sleeves and the first and second poles about a centrally registered longitudinal axis passing through the one pole to thereby conveniently assist a user to penetrate the one sleeve into a ground surface.

Abstract: A movable support post is attached to a vessel, such as a large planter's pot. Two or more fasteners are employed to attach the post to the vessel. The fasteners extend through the post and extend into the interior of the vessel. A ballast material, such as concrete, is disposed in the vessel and encases the bolts therein. The ballast material acts as an anchor to stabilize the vessel and the attached post. A removable lid or tray is positioned at the top of the vessel. The tray or lid can function as a birdbath or flowerpot, adding a decorative adjunct to the structure.

Abstract: A tubular post for a light or other electrical device is mounted in soil with the use of an anchor which is comprised of a vertical sleeve and a flange which extends horizontally from the lower end of the sleeve. A flat bottom excavation is made in soil, to receive the anchor. Electrical conductors are run across the top of the flange, through ports in the sleeve and up the interior of the post. A stop within the bore of the sleeve limits downward movement of the post which is inserted into the top of the bore, to enable the running of the conductors through the ports. The excavation is then backfilled. When the anchor has been installed in soil so that top of the sleeve is near the surface, the post may be lifted from the sleeve and replaced without making a new excavation.

Abstract: The anti-tip anchor has an elongate rod that is staked into ground for stabilizing an object in an upright position on the ground. The rod has a sharp lower portion for penetration into the ground, and a bent top portion forming a handle for a user to grab during staking and unstaking procedures. A fastening plate is attached to the object. The fastening plate includes a substantially vertically disposed sleeve through which the rod is slidably disposed, the sharp end of the rod slidably engaging the ground. A rod clamp is attached to a top portion of the object. When the rod is staked into the ground, the object is stabilized and cannot move regardless of disturbances, such as high winds. To store the rod stake a user slides the rod out of the ground and places top portion of the rod into the rod clamp.

Abstract: A portable apparatus for picking up and storing waste and, particularly animal waste, includes a container having each of a predetermined shape and a predetermined size, a bottom wall, and a side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall and forming an open top end. An elongated member with a pointed lower edge is provided for securing the apparatus to a ground surface in a semi-permanent fashion. There is a pair of hooks for securing the handles of a grocery type bag positioned within an interior portion of the container. An optional liner storage member is attached to the exterior surface of the container. The invention also provides a device for picking up the animal waste which includes a cup-shaped member mounted at one end of an elongated member and a handle which is mounted at a distal end of the elongated member.

Abstract: A roof top structure support has a flat bottom rigid base to be positioned on a roof and spread the load supported by the support substantially evenly over the surface of the base in contact with the roof. A tower rises from the base and includes a slot across the top thereof and a bore therein extending downwardly from the bottom of the slot and adapted to receive a threaded rod therein. The slot in the top of the tower is sized to receive a strut therein. A bolt extending through the strut and into the bore secures the strut to the support. Struts and other structures can be supported above the tower and slot by threaded rod such as “all thread” screwed into and extending from the bore.

Abstract: A rotatable base apparatus for use with a hose reel enclosure. The base comprises an upper and a lower portion. A bearing is located in between the upper and lower portions and allows the portions to rotate with respect to each other. The bearing can comprise balls mounted in sockets in the lower base portion which ride in a track in the upper base portion. Clips are provided on the upper base portion to secure the hose reel enclosure thereto. This arrangement allows the user to remove the hose from the reel in any direction without the danger of the hose reel enclosure tipping over. The hose reel enclosure will rotate to the direction in which the hose is being removed. It also allows the hose reel enclosure to rotate to the direction that the hose is being wound onto the reel. This prevents the hose from being unevenly wound onto the reel, i.e. piling up on one side of the reel.