Mousetrap

Abstract

With reference to a preferred embodiment as depicted in FIG. 4, the present invention provides a mousetrap comprising a first part (5) and a second part (10) that together define an enclosure wherein the first part (5) and the second part (10) are operably connected to a first biasing means (60). Within the enclosure is retained a lever (45) having a first end (47), a bridge (49), a pivot means (40), a releasable catch means (57) and a second biasing means (55). The mousetrap is able to be set from a closed to an open position by rotation of the first part (5) in relation to the second part (10) against the force of the first biasing means (60). The mousetrap is held in the open position, ready to receive a mouse, by engagement of the releasable catch means (57) located on the lever (45) with a stop means (59) located on the first part (5). The mousetrap is activated by movement of the lever (45) by the mouse so that the releasable catch means (57) disengages the stop means (59). On activation, the first part (5) counter-rotates in relation to the second part (10) under the action of the first biasing means (60) from the open to the closed position. The second biasing means (55) biases the lever (45) into a resting position. By virtue of the second biasing means (55), the mousetrap is able to be set when held in any orientation, and is also stabilised (i.e, accidental activation of the mousetrap is avoided, or at least minimised, when the mousetrap is turned an any orientation, for example, on its side or upside down).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.