Abstract: A jacking system is disclosed in which a hydraulic jack, having a raisable piston, is used, in combination with a jack stand having a raisable support column, to raise a load. In a preferred embodiment, the support column has two components that may telescope into each other and that may be held in fixed position by two ratchet mechanisms. The jack stand is configured so that, when the hydraulic jack is positioned alongside the jack stand, the piston of the hydraulic jack is able to interact with and raise the support column along with the load.

Abstract: A power assisted utility knife is described, having a blade that may be oscillated back and forth by a motor. The utility knife further includes structure that permits the blade to be withdrawn into the knife for safekeeping, and to be extended outside the knife sufficiently far to permit an old blade with a dull edge to be removed, and a fresh blade to be inserted.

Abstract: A merchandising rack for displaying a plurality of four-way lug wrenches is described, comprising, a plurality of ribs connected to each other; a plurality of upward support elements, for restraining a four-way lug wrench from moving downwardly and laterally; and a plurality of downward support elements, for restraining a first arm of the wrench from moving upwardly, laterally, and from moving away from the rack; and a plurality of stubs positioned to restrain the wrench from rotating about an axis extending along the first arm of the wrench.

Abstract: A portable air compressor including a base platform, a motor, a compressor, a first and a second cylindrical air tank. A vertically extending rod is attached to the base platform. At least two feet are connected to the second tank, for supporting the second tank on the first tank. A cylindrical collar is attached to an external surface of the second tank, the collar being positioned to slide over an upper portion of the rod when the second tank rests on the first tank, and holds the second tank immovable on the compressor, yet allows the second tank to be removed from the compressor when desired.

Abstract: An axially elongate hobby knife having an external housing defining an internal cavity is described. The hobby knife has structural features that permit the rotation of an rearward actuator. Such rotation causes the blade to withdraw into, or advance from, the cover, thereby to provide for enhanced safety and security of the blade.

Abstract: An axially elongate hobby knife having an external housing defining an internal cavity is described. The hobby knife has structural features that permit the rotation of an rearward actuator. Such rotation causes a cover to advance over the blade at the same time as the blade withdraws into the cover, thereby to provide for enhanced safety and security of the blade.

Abstract: A hydraulic jack system is described, suitable for lifting heavy loads such as automobiles. The jack system is operable by a powered driver fitted with a socket for coupling to a nut rotationally fixed to the jack system, wherein the driver is removable directly after use. As such, no handle is required for activating the hydraulic jack system. The jack system has a low profile, reducing the danger of being accidentally knocked into during operation. When operated by a powered driver, the driver rotates a camshaft mounted to the jack system, the camshaft reciprocally drives a push rod that activates a plunger for hydraulically elevating a piston ram.

Abstract: A dual locking system for a tool including a first actuator and a second actuator each of which are required to be actuated to unlock the tool. The system includes spring biased locking members individually and operatively associated with a button assembly.

Abstract: A wheel dolly is disclosed that is suited to serve as both an automobile jack, capable of holding large loads aloft for extended periods, relying on only mechanical systems and eliminating hydraulic systems. In a further aspect, the wheel dolly of the present invention does not include extended arms, handles, or levers for pumping or rotating the lifting mechanisms. Each lifting element terminates in only a single nut exposed to the user. Preferably, each nut of each lifting system has the same plan dimensions as the other, thus providing the advantage of allowing the user to operate the dolly with a driver and only one socket.

Abstract: A folding table assembly having an open configuration and a closed configuration. Spring loaded hinges provide the folding table assembly with an automated approach to unfolding the table assembly. Casters provide the table assembly with structure making the assembly portable.

Abstract: A folding table assembly having an open configuration and a closed configuration. Spring loaded hinges provide the folding table assembly with an automated approach to unfolding the table assembly. Casters provide the table assembly with structure making the assembly portable.

Abstract: A multi-position creeper has multiple seating positions including a supine configuration, an inclined seating configuration and an upright seating configuration. The creeper includes a frame having a first support frame, a second support frame and a third support frame. A locking mechanism is utilized to pivotally lock the first and second support frames together. A coupling assembly is used to connect the second and third support frames together.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for imprinting text on items such as tools. The imprinting process involving employing a roll forging assembly including a large-sized roller plate and a multi-angle vise.

Abstract: A rule assembly is described providing novel and beneficial features to the user. In a first aspect of the invention, an improved device and method is described for removably attaching the rule assembly housing to the clothing or equipment of a user. A beam is provided with a first and a second end, each end being connected to the housing to define a space sufficient to permit the introduction of a retention element for suspending the rule assembly. Preferably, the beam may pivot at the first end, and may be detachably lockable to the housing at the second end. In another aspect of the invention, means for making a preliminary determination as to the cause of any malfunction within the housing of the rule assembly is described. The housing of the rule assembly is provided with a window sealed with transparent material. A reel within the housing that carries a tape blade and a retraction spring is provided with at least one opening.

Abstract: A tape measure device has an elongated blade with a central concave-convex segment with at least one planar segment adjoining edgewise the central concave-convex segment to form a junction that extends substantially along the entire length of the elongated blade. During formation of the blade the junction is annealed to avoid formation of a flaw or incipient fracture along the junction.

Abstract: A multi-position creeper has multiple seating positions including a supine configuration, an inclined seating configuration and an upright seating configuration. The creeper includes a frame having a first support frame, a second support frame and a third support frame. A locking mechanism is utilized to pivotally lock the first and second support frames together. A coupling assembly is used to connect the second and third support frames together.