Patents Assigned to Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
  • Patent number: 9663975
    Abstract: A portable, flexible lock is disclosed with a cut-resistant strap formed of a durable and flexible outer portion and that defines a chamber for receiving a second durable, flexible inner portion therein. The inner portion floats freely side-to-side within the chamber thereby making the inner portion more difficult to cut. In a disclosed embodiment, the outer portion is formed of woven KEVLAR and the inner portion is a stainless steel cable. The lock may include a housing assembly that holds one end of the strap while a synching device, such as a pivoting cam or the like, detachably secures a portion of the opposite end of the strap thereto when the synching device in a locked position. A lock structure holds the synching device in its locked position. One or more tools may be detachably secured to the housing assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey B. Castro, Richard Jeremy Hadden
  • Patent number: 9656373
    Abstract: A hand tool is provided that is configured to provide ready access to individual tool members. In this regard, the hand tool may provide improved features for facilitating storage and operation of the tool members. One example hand tool includes first and second jaws capable of translating between an extended position and a retracted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2017
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Michael Huttula, Curt Matthew Kemper, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 9440346
    Abstract: A tool, such as a multipurpose tool, is provided that is designed to receive a separate tool member configured to be installed after assembly of the tool. In this regard, the tool may have a retention mechanism configured to accept a separate tool member. A method of installing a tool member onto a tool is also provided. Also provided is a tool that includes a release mechanism to allow tool members to fold into the tool whereby the release mechanism is actuatable by tabs positioned on the sides of the handles outside of the path of travel of the tool member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Bernard John Grysen, Jr., Peter Parker
  • Patent number: 9427858
    Abstract: Provided herein is a multipurpose tool configured to provide multiple tools and functions for a user according to a specific activity or sport. Embodiments may provide a tool including a frame configured to define a plurality of tools disposed about a perimeter, where the frame defines at least one recess disposed about the perimeter, where at least one recess is configured to hold an earbud headphone. The frame of the tool may define a cavity at least partially surrounded by the perimeter, where the cavity may be configured to removably engage a separable and independently operable device. The cavity may be configured to removably receive a multipurpose tool. The tool may further include a gate biased into engagement with the frame, where the cavity is fully encircled by the frame and the gate, and access to the cavity through the frame is provided by opening the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Duncan, Blair Scott Barnes
  • Patent number: 9187114
    Abstract: A cutting tool is provided which may include a first blade and a second blade rotatably coupled to the first blade. The cutting tool may include a first handle rotatably coupled to the first blade, the first handle rotatable between a deployed position and a folded position, and a second handle rotatably coupled to the second blade, the second handle rotatable between a deployed position and a folded position. The cutting tool may also include a first rotation lock configured to hold the first handle fixed relative to the first blade. The first handle may be configured to be rotatable relative to the first blade in response to the first rotation lock being disengaged. The first rotation lock may be configured to be held in the disengaged position in response to the first handle being disposed between the deployed position and the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa L. Covel, Tony Steven Peterson
  • Patent number: 9138881
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool is provided which may be useful for functions relating to firearms and explosives. The multipurpose tool may include a variety of tools and features while remaining compact. The multipurpose tool may include a blade positioned in a pocket defined between a handle and a body member which define a hook configuration. Elongate members may be rotatably connected to the multipurpose tool and may include a base member with a cam surface and one or more detents which cooperate with a spring follower to hold the elongate member in either or both of an operational position or a storage position. A receiving aperture may be received in a jaw of a pair of pliers, and configured to receive an accessory member. Further, a sleeve may store a bit on the side of a handle and may be retained in the sleeve by a displaceable button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Caniparoli, Jeffrey B. Castro, Benjamin C. Rivera, Blair Scott Barnes
  • Patent number: 9095970
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool is provided that is configured to provide ready access to individual tool members. In this regard, the tool may facilitate the identification and selection of a respective tool member and the subsequent unfolding of the tool member. The tool is also provided that has a structurally secure guard for one or more of the tool members, such as a knife blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2015
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Andro Purnomohadi, Benjamin C. Rivera, Blair Scott Barnes
  • Publication number: 20150189956
    Abstract: A tool is provided that includes a plurality of links including at least three links movably interconnected to one another to form at least a portion of a wearable accessory, such as a bracelet. The plurality of links are articulatable so as to alternately assume a first configuration in which the plurality of links extend linearly, a second configuration in which the plurality of links are curved about an axis in a first direction and a third configuration in which the plurality of links are curved about the axis in a second direction, opposite the first direction. The plurality of links are configured to permit limited motion in a direction parallel to the axis prior to becoming structurally rigid. At least one link includes at least one tool function. A clasp and a receiver are also provided to facilitate the functionality and versatility of the resulting wearable accessory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Publication date: July 9, 2015
    Applicant: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 8857299
    Abstract: A hand tool is provided that is configured to provide ready access to individual tool members. In this regard, the hand tool may provide improved features for facilitating storage and operation of the tool members. One example hand tool includes first and second jaws capable of translating between an extended position and a retracted position. Such a hand tool provides a locking member configured to lock to prevent translation of the first and second jaws from the retracted position. Another example hand tool includes a tool member carried by a handle and rotatable between an open position and a stowed position. Such a hand tool provides a ramp defined on the tool member to facilitate easy rotation of the tool member to the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Justin Michael Huttula, Curt Matthew Kemper, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20140059782
    Abstract: Provided herein is a multipurpose tool configured to provide multiple tools and functions for a user according to a specific activity or sport. Embodiments may provide a tool including a frame configured to define a plurality of tools disposed about a perimeter, where the frame defines at least one recess disposed about the perimeter, where at least one recess is configured to hold an earbud headphone. The frame of the tool may define a cavity at least partially surrounded by the perimeter, where the cavity may be configured to removably engage a separable and independently operable device. The cavity may be configured to removably receive a multipurpose tool. The tool may further include a gate biased into engagement with the frame, where the cavity is fully encircled by the frame and the gate, and access to the cavity through the frame is provided by opening the gate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Duncan, Blair Scott Barnes
  • Publication number: 20140033542
    Abstract: A cutting tool is provided which may include a first blade and a second blade rotatably coupled to the first blade. The cutting tool may include a first handle rotatably coupled to the first blade, the first handle rotatable between a deployed position and a folded position, and a second handle rotatably coupled to the second blade, the second handle rotatable between a deployed position and a folded position. The cutting tool may also include a first rotation lock configured to hold the first handle fixed relative to the first blade. The first handle may be configured to be rotatable relative to the first blade in response to the first rotation lock being disengaged. The first rotation lock may be configured to be held in the disengaged position in response to the first handle being disposed between the deployed position and the folded position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Melissa L. Covel, Tony Steven Peterson
  • Patent number: 8640310
    Abstract: A disengageable clip is provided which has a first configuration to permit an item to be securely gripped and a second configuration that permits the item to be disengaged. Once disengaged, the clip may be removed from the item and/or may be repositioned and then reattached to the item. The clip may include a clip member having an engagement portion defining an open loop and a clip portion extending therefrom. The clip may also include a sleeve slidably positioned upon the clip portion and at least one stop having a width greater than the sleeve. The sleeve may be configured to translate along the clip portion between first and second positions. The first position is proximate the engagement portion and may cause the engagement portion to grip the item. Conversely, the second position is spaced from the engagement portion by the stop to permit disengagement from the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Caniparoli
  • Patent number: 8528451
    Abstract: A tool, such as a multipurpose tool, is provided that includes a carabiner having a spring that is configured to be sufficiently rugged to withstand the anticipated utilization of the carabiner. The tool may include at least a first handle, including a carabiner defining an opening thereto, and at least one tool carried by the first handle. The tool may also include a spring connected to the first handle proximate the carabiner and a gate urged by the spring to extend at least partially across the opening defined by the carabiner. The first handle may also include a tab, and the spring may include a corresponding engagement member configured to engage the tab such that the tab resists movement of the spring relative to the first handle. A corresponding handle assembly may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Jennefer Ruth Steineckert, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20130180054
    Abstract: A hand tool is provided that is configured to provide ready access to individual tool members. In this regard, the hand tool may provide improved features for facilitating storage and operation of the tool members. One example hand tool includes first and second jaws capable of translating between an extended position and a retracted position. Such a hand tool provides a locking member configured to lock to prevent translation of the first and second jaws from the retracted position. Another example hand tool includes a tool member carried by a handle and rotatable between an open position and a stowed position. Such a hand tool provides a ramp defined on the tool member to facilitate easy rotation of the tool member to the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Applicant: LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Justin Michael Huttula, Curt Matthew Kemper, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20120227187
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool is provided which may be useful for functions relating to firearms and explosives. The multipurpose tool may include a variety of tools and features while remaining compact. The multipurpose tool may include a blade positioned in a pocket defined between a handle and a body member which define a hook configuration. Elongate members may be rotatably connected to the multipurpose tool and may include a base member with a cam surface and one or more detents which cooperate with a spring follower to hold the elongate member in either or both of an operational position or a storage position. A receiving aperture may be received in a jaw of a pair of pliers, and configured to receive an accessory member. Further, a sleeve may store a bit on the side of a handle and may be retained in the sleeve by a displaceable button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: LEATHERMAN TOOL GROUP, INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Caniparoli, Jeffrey B. Castro, Benjamin C. Rivera, Blair Scott Barnes
  • Patent number: 8256121
    Abstract: A hand tool, a handle of a hand tool and associated methods for fabricating the handle of a hand tool are provided in order to reduce the weight and thickness of the resulting hand tool. The handle generally includes a composite portion fabricated of fibers embedded in a matrix material in such a manner such that the composite portion meaningfully contributes to the strength of the handle and, in turn, the hand tool. In this regard, the composite portion may include a relatively high percentage of fibers, relatively long fibers and/or fibers that are generally aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis of the handle. For example, the composite portion may include fibers that constitute at least 50% by volume, fibers that are at least 30 mm in length on average and/or fibers that are within 15° of being parallel to the longitudinal axis of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles F. Goodrich
  • Patent number: D710667
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Andro Purnomohadi
  • Patent number: D721564
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Andro Purnomohadi
  • Patent number: D754516
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Zach Heise
  • Patent number: D758817
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa L. Covel, Tony Steven Peterson