Douglas C Sharp

US Patent:

57912939, Aug 11, 1998

Filed:

Oct 23, 1995

Appl. No.:

8/547058

Inventors:

Melaney L. Northrop - Cleburne TX
Douglas J. Sharp - Arlington TX

Assignee:

Doskocil Manufacturing Company, Inc. - Arlington TX

International Classification:

A01K 103

US Classification:

119498

Abstract:

An animal shelter (10) includes a top (20) formed as a unitary shell and shaped to resemble a natural object having an irregular surface, such as a tree stump. An entrance (26) is formed in the top (20) and allows an animal to enter and exit animal shelter (10). Because the top (20) is shaped to resemble a natural object, the animal shelter (10) blends into a natural setting. An extended floor (41) may be attached to the base (40), and an extended covering (28) may be attached to the top (20) adjacent the entrance (26). The extended covering (28) covers the extended floor (41). The extended covering (28) resembles an extension of the natural object, thus further enhancing the appearance of the animal shelter (10). A planter (60), removably seated upon the top (20), may be used to cultivate plants.

US Patent:

60266104, Feb 22, 2000

Filed:

Jul 3, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/887620

Inventors:

Melaney Northrop - Cleburne TX
Douglas J. Sharp - Arlington TX

Assignee:

Doskcoil Manufacturing Company, Inc. - Arlington TX

International Classification:

A01G 108

US Classification:

47 33

Abstract:

The present invention provides an edging strip with integrally molded stakes. The strip of the invention is a single, integrally molded piece, greatly simplifying construction, packaging, shipping, and assembly by the end user. Each strip will present an independent and usable item containing within the one piece the components necessary to position and attach the strip within the ground and to link it with other strips as desired. The integral stakes each also have broad top surfaces which provide a hammering surface for inserting the strip within the ground. The strip uses interlocking semi-stakes at its end points to connect with other strips, providing a full hammering surface when interlocked and providing anchoring points at the points of connection. The disclosed invention may also include support ribs with catches or ledges which act to resist the effects of frost heave and reduce unintentional removal of the strip from the ground. The support ribs do not extend to the top of the strip, leaving a blank panel section which may be used during the molding process to form various possible decorative sections to improve the visual appeal of the strip.