Retractable leash

Abstract

A retractable leash having an internal spooling mechanism, active damping/braking mechanism and sensor activated ultrasonic whistle. The spooling mechanism is contained in a handle and oscillates linearly up and down when the leash member is unwound. A finger separator is contained in the handle, the finger separator having an internal channel with openings to permit the leash member to be unwound therethrough.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A retractable leash comprising
 a housing having an interior and forming a handle;   a spool located in the interior of the housing, the spool located on the shaft, the shaft also located in the interior of the housing;   a leash member affixed to the spool;   a speed sensor operatively coupled to said spool, wherein said speed sensor generates signals indicating the rotational speed of the spool; and   an ultrasonic transducer responsive to said signals.   
     
     
         2 . A retractable leash comprising
 a housing having an interior and forming a handle;   a spool located in the interior of the housing, the spool located on the shaft, the shaft also located in the interior of the housing;   a leash member affixed to the spool;   an acceleration sensor operatively coupled to said spool, wherein said acceleration sensor generates signals indicating the rotational acceleration of the spool; and   an ultrasonic transducer responsive to said signals.