Combined With Level Patents (Class 33/451)
  • Patent number: 6305092
    Abstract: A level apparatus is provided with an elongate level and a support. The level and the support each have opposed ends, front and rear faces and top and bottom faces. The top and bottom faces of the support are substantially planar and parallel to one another, and the top and bottom faces of the level are substantially planar and parallel to one another. A central position on the support is pivotally connected to the level such that the rear face of the support is in opposed facing relationship to the front face of the level. The level can be used in a conventional manner without utilizing the support. However, the support can be pivoted relative to the level into an orientation where the top or bottom face of the support can be positioned on the upper face of a beam such that the level extends downwardly from the support and the beam. The level then can be used to define a plumb line to which other structural elements can be positioned or compared.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Michael F. Tufariello
  • Patent number: 6293024
    Abstract: A leveling device has a housing, a support surface which is fixed with the housing, an adjusting device including at least one adjusting screw which is displaceable outwardly and has an adjusting thread which is engageable with a counter thread for adjusting the adjusting screw, the counter thread being formed as a partially side of a slider which is displaceable transversely to a longitudinal axis of the adjusting screw and disengageable from the adjusting thread.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Arnim Fiebig, David Matzo
  • Patent number: 6293023
    Abstract: A level comprises a frame defining first and second parallel channels and first and second rails fitted slidingly in the first and second channels respectively. The level is adjustable in length by sliding the rails in the respective channels of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Jack M. Schooley
  • Patent number: 6279240
    Abstract: The present invention is an extensible carpenter's level that is adjustable between a collapsed position and a fully-extended position. The level may be manufactured in a variety of sizes. A preferred embodiment of the level is comprised of an innerslide and two outerslides. The innerslide has two sets of tracks or tongues. Each of the outerslides is slidably connected to the innerslide. In particular, one outerslide is adapted to slide along one set of tracks or tongues, and the other outerslide is adapted to slide along the other set of tracks or tongues. At least one of the slides includes at least one level bubble. The level preferably includes multiple level bubbles to enable a variety of measurements, e.g., a horizontal level, a vertical level, and a 45° level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2001
    Inventor: Anthony Louis Bonaventura, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20010013176
    Abstract: A spirit level employs an elongated housing having a rectangular cross-sectional outline and provided with registering elongated slots in its front and rear walls. At least one follower of the level has a main portion slidably installed in the housing and one or two pointers outwardly adjacent the slot in the front wall. The two end pieces of the housing are provided with bubble tubes, and each follower has a passage for introduction of a stylus or another suitable marking tool which can be inserted at the front wall to extend outwardly through the slot in the rear wall of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: August 16, 2001
    Inventor: Oskar Ruther
  • Patent number: 6260283
    Abstract: A multi-functional carpentry tool includes a base plate having opposed front and back major surfaces, and at least one side edge bearing surface perpendicular to the front and back surfaces. A pivot ruler is secured to the base plate and extends across and parallel to the front major surface and outwardly from the base plate. The pivot ruler includes an elongated marking member having opposing straight side edges. A longitudinal slot is formed in the marking member parallel to and between the opposed side edges of the marking member. A pivot attachment device is received through the slot of the marking member and into the base plate for pivotably attaching the marking member to the base plate. The marking member is slidable across the front major surface of the base plate a distance equal to the length of the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Ezee Enterprise, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul B. Abernathy, Dean W. Chapman
  • Patent number: 6240650
    Abstract: A combination leveling and edge trimming tool for use during the application of a wallpaper material to a wall surface. The tool includes a substantially thin and elongate planar shaped body having a first face and a second face as well as a first end and a second end. A bottom face of the body extends between the first and second faces and first and second ends and is suitable for receiving an elongate and substantially rigid blade edge suitable for use in leveling and adhering the wallpaper material to the wall surface. First and second level indicators are incorporated within the body and are operable about respective first and second rotating planes. A non-slip gripping material is secured to a selected first or second face and, upon orienting the tool at a specified angle relative to the wall surface, provides a secure engagement to permit trimming of excess wallpaper material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Cecelia D. Olson
  • Patent number: 6240649
    Abstract: A sighting assembly for providing a reference laser beam in the course of connecting pipe segments to each other includes an elongate body in which a laser pointing course is received and which is pivotally engaged at its front end to an straight edged arm. The body may further include a magnetic compass and a level assembly, both proximate its rear end, to provide a visual indication of the azimuth and inclination thereof. These are achieved by an azimuth ring on the compass projecting into lateral cutouts in the body for manipulative convenience. In one example the arm supports two spaced posts, each including spaced projections for contacting the pipe segment, and when the arm is collapsed below the body for storage the posts are received in the cutouts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Paul T. McElroy
  • Patent number: 6237237
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring and plumbing. The apparatus contains a slide element slidably mounted to a body element. The body element is fixed to a base element. The slide element defines a viewing channel for viewing a side level fixed to the body element. The slide element has a pair of longitudinal trapezoidal rails fixed to the back of the slide element and running its length. The body element has a pair of longitudinal trapezoidal channels along the front of the body element. The channels within the body element receive the rails of the slide element to slidably fix the slide element to the body element. The slide element may be moved along the body element to a set position, the apparatus aligned, and the slide element locked into place for measuring or plumbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventors: James M. McKenna, John T. O'Keefe
  • Patent number: 6230416
    Abstract: A square holding a laser device for transmitting a laser beam to generate straight lines from the square to the surface upon which the laser beam impinges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventor: Anthony J. Trigilio
  • Patent number: 6209213
    Abstract: A multi-purpose measuring tool has an elongate base and arm pivotally connected at rounded ends thereof in an angularly variable relation to perform multiple functions, including measuring inclines, measuring corner angles, measuring distances, use as a square, use as a bevel gauge and use as a torpedo level. A retractable measuring tape housed within the arm has a terminal finger gripping end adapted to be pulled away from the arm and removably attached to a distal end of the base. The measuring tape is dual purpose in that one side of the tape is used for determining the angle of the arm relative to the base to perform some of the above functions, and the other side of the tape is used for traditional linear distance measurements. The tool's base includes a “vertical” bubble level and the arm includes a “horizontal” bubble level to perform some of the above functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2001
    Inventor: Richard J. Moe
  • Patent number: 6195902
    Abstract: A laser extender is provided for accurately elongating a reference line. The laser extender includes a housing, a battery set, and a laser unit. The housing has an external basic flat plane for resting upon a flat surface and having a straight edge that is adapted to be aligned with a reference line, an internal accommodating space, and a plurality of through holes for accessing the internal accommodating space from the exterior of the housing. The battery set is provided inside the internal accommodating space. The laser unit, utilizing power provided by the battery set, is located inside the internal accommodating space for generating a spanning plane laser beam perpendicular to the basic flat plane of the housing and for extending the reference line defined by the straight edge. In addition, the laser extender can engage a beam leveler for enhancing the leveling ability of the laser extender.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Assignee: Quarton, Inc.
    Inventors: Der-Shyang Jan, Tony Kuo-Ti Chen
  • Patent number: 6167630
    Abstract: A combined laser beam level and square apparatus includes a level having slots or openings along a common side so that the slots or openings may receive a rule or square device that is pivotally mounted thereon so as to be selectively placed in coextensive slots or openings of the level. The coextensive slots include shoulder guides which align the rule into a particular angular orientation such as a 90 degree position with respect to the level or 45 degree orientation or position with respect to the level. Releasable securement means are provided for retaining the level and a base, if used, in a fixed position and other retaining means are provided for holding the rule fixed to the level while in a selected coextensive slot or opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: James Webb
  • Patent number: 6163969
    Abstract: A 3D laser leveler is provided for accurately locating distant parallel or extension lines. The 3D laser leveler has a base block and a rotator. The base block provides a base plane for resting upon a flat surface when in use, a first leveling unit for examining the leveling status of the base plane, and a pivot mechanism. The rotator is rotatably connected to the base block and rotatable around the pivot mechanism, and includes a housing for providing an internal accommodating space, a battery set and a laser unit received inside the accommodating space. The laser unit uses power provided by the battery set for generating a spanning plane laser beam that can be utilized to locate a spatial extension or a perpendicular line. In addition, a joining bracket can be included separately to connect the 3D laser leveler and a conventional beam leveler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Quarton Inc.
    Inventors: Der-Shyang Jan, Tony Kuo-Ti Chen
  • Patent number: 6134795
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hand tool which is capable of functioning as a framing square, a roofing framing square or rafter square, a plumb bob, a level, and a gauge or scribe for straight lines, arcs, or circles. The hand tool preferably includes a body, a plate and a releasable locking member. The body includes first and second ends, first and second sides, a top surface and a bottom surface. The hand tool may include a light source disposed at the first end of the body, a horizontal level vial intermediate the first and second sides, a vertical level vial intermediate the first and second sides, and a straight sliding slot intermediate the first and second sides such that the straight sliding slot transverses the body from the first side to the second side providing an aperture. The plate is pivotally attached to the body by a pivot member. The pivot member is disposed in the straight sliding slot thereby allowing the pivot member to be slidably captured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: James N. Hitchcock
  • Patent number: 6105266
    Abstract: A carpenter's "square" has a first member with a spirit level so it can be held horizontal with one end elevated above a pitched roof, while the opposite end rests on the roof exactly 12 inches from the inside edge of a vertically movable member supported in the first member, and clamped to it by a thumb screw. This inside edge is graduated inches to read out roof pitch directly in "inches per foot".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Inventor: David C. Cote
  • Patent number: 6098300
    Abstract: A level tool is arranged to facilitate gradient measurement and matching of lines on inclined surfaces, such as to establish parallel reference lines when installing roofing materials. The tool has a rule-like base member defining an elongated reference edge, and has a centrally located protrusion on its lower surface and a level on its upper surface for sensing orientation of the tool around an axis perpendicular to the base member and to the level. A plurality of resilient members depend from the protrusion and serve to stabilize the level tool when determining parallel lines. The level can have a fluid filled disk or circularly arched tube with a captive air bubble, and preferably is graduated to mark positions of the bubble. The tool is placed on the inclined surface so that the raised protrusion and at least one of the resilient members rests against the inclined surface and a reference edge is parallel to the plane of the surface and aligned to a pre-existing line to be matched with a parallel line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Anthony Angelucci
  • Patent number: 6058617
    Abstract: An electronic level is provided including a central member having a rectilinear configuration and an electronic level indicator mounted thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Samuel Nadu
  • Patent number: 6032378
    Abstract: A measuring tool which allows for a quick, accurate determination of the appropriate position to hang a hook or similar hanger on a wall for supporting a picture or similar object. The tool includes horizontal and vertical legs and a sliding member that moves along the vertical leg. When the horizontal leg is positioned adjacent the top edge of an object, the sliding member may be moved to pinpoint the vertical location of the hanging mechanism relative to the top edge of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Inventor: Mildred A. Null
  • Patent number: 6026584
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for positioning hanging objects (2) on a wall has a base member (12), a pair of spaced-apart support arms (18), each having an upper end (20), extending from the base member. At the upper end of each support arm is a line receiver (30) for releasably engaging a line (4) extending from a frame (6) of the object. To enable the individual to place a mark on the wall for the location of a hanger to support the object, the line receiver may have an opening (34) extending therethrough. A telescoping height gauge (36) is mounted to the base member to locate a top edge (8) of the frame with respect to the line suspended front the line receivers. To assist in placing the line receivers in a horizontal relationship on the wall, the apparatus has a level indicator (40). A handle (42) extends from the base member. To add additional strength to the apparatus, a brace (24) can be extended between each support arm and the base member. Also, the support arms can be pivotally mounted to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Myles S. Wegman
  • Patent number: 6012229
    Abstract: A combined leveling device and laser pointer includes a support body which holds a bubble tube and a rotary seat. The rotary seat extends from a front face to a rear face of the support body and has a through-hole which extends from the front face to the rear face and which includes a tapered clamping hole section that is tapered in a direction from the rear face to the front face. The rotary seat is graduated adjacent to the front face, and a clamp is movably provided in the through-hole. The clamp has a plurality of resilient clamp members which are resiliently movable toward or away from one another when the clamp moves into or outward from the tapered clamping hole section. A detachable laser light source unit is insertable into the clamp from the rear face so as to be clamped removably by the resilient clamp members. A hologram is mounted to the rotary seat adjacent to the front face to produce a one-dimensional linear projection image from the laser light source unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: Hsuan-Sen Shiao
  • Patent number: 5933973
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a elongate ruler having a row of calibration marks thereon, preferably a second row reading from the opposite end, and a set of nail holes at spaced distances therein. The nail holes are either on the centerline or along one edge of the ruler. The ruler extends through a housing engaging the housing at a slot through the housing. There is an alignment surface in the housing to assure alignment of the housing with respect to the ruler. The housing supports a first bubble level responsive to the horizontal, and a second bubble level at right angles to enable the ruler and housing to be positioned vertically. The housing and ruler enable ruler movement while making measurements along the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Bonnie C. Fenley, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5933974
    Abstract: A carpenter's square having a first and second leg at right angles to each other, and a third leg extending between the first and second legs. A magnetic strip on the first leg for attaching the tool to a metallic surface to be plumbed. A first notch in the third leg a first distance from the first leg and a second notch in the third leg a second distance from the first leg so that a plumb string can be threaded through the first and second notches and thereby held in place to support a plumb bob to allow a plumb reading to be taken without the need for manually supporting the plumb bob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventors: Larry R. Walters, Tim Balas
  • Patent number: 5894675
    Abstract: A new Combination Tool for use in measuring, leveling, squaring, and plumbing operations. The inventive device includes a housing adapted to encase a tape measure including an extendable and retractable tape and adapted to encase a laser source capable of projecting a visible light beam, wherein the extendable and retractable tape is extendable from the housing and the visible light beam is projectable from the housing perpendicular to the extendable and retractable tape. A horizontal bubble-leveling vial and a vertical bubble-leveling vial are mounted on the housing for leveling thereof in horizontal and vertical planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Inventor: Joseph Cericola
  • Patent number: 5881468
    Abstract: A spirit level with a pair of elongate arms which are pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis and which have a measuring device, for being placed on a plane and for detecting an inclination thereof, wherein each of the arms has a first and a second longitudinal portion with a bend portion connecting same, a longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal portion of each arm extended in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the associated second longitudinal portion. The pivot axis extends in the regions of the bend portion of the arms. The first longitudinal portions of the two arms are of a substantially equal first length and the second longitudinal portions of the two arms are of a substantially equal second length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Urs Baumann
    Inventor: Urs Baumann
  • Patent number: 5878502
    Abstract: An apparatus for comparing compliance of a grade to a predetermined slope includes a block and a level. The block has at least one notch positioned at a distance from a first end of the block such that when the method of this invention is practiced, a level indicator will indicate whether a grade on which the apparatus is resting matches a predetermined grade. A method of this invention includes the steps of inserting an arm of predetermined length into the notch and placing the joined block and arm on a grade. A level is placed at the arm to thereby compare compliance of the grade to a predetermine slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventor: Harold B. Donahue, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5839201
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a segmented, combination level and square that has a rotating joint. In a preferred embodiment, this hand tool provides the user with many optional tools in one. The tool can be configured as a level, a T-square, a framing square, a T-bevel, or a pocket square. In a preferred embodiment, this multi-segmented combination tool also provides the user with a convenient way not only to configure a level, in one inch increments, to any length from several inches to at least ten feet in length, but also to create more than one tool at a time such as a T-level and a framing square. In other preferred embodiments, the user is provided with optional features that enable them to carry on-site a single tool that can perform all tasks needed to do general construction layout such as roof framing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: James D. Young
  • Patent number: 5832618
    Abstract: A combination level and T-square comprising an elongate level sensing section and an elongate T-bar section which can be alternately removed from or rigidly connected to the level sensing section in three locations to form three different configurations, a T-shape, a left-hand L-shape and a right-hand L-shape. The invention has two engagement hand screws; one for securing a sliding tongue into the level sensing section and the other for securing the T-bar to the tongue in one of the three desired configurations. The T-bar may be positioned further or closer to the level sensing section by sliding the tongue telescopically within the level sensing section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 10, 1998
    Inventor: Dane Scarborough
  • Patent number: 5813125
    Abstract: A hands free square and level which includes a self holding square that has central channels formed by opposing inner and outer walls. The central channels include mounting holes in its outer wall to allow it to be mounted on a work piece via screws. An inner wall, opposing the outer wall, has corresponding screw driver apertures to allow access to the screws by a screwdriver. The central channel also has transverse bolt apertures which allow the square to be face mounted on a work surface by inserting a bolt through a transverse bolt aperture and then into a work surface. A separate detachable level is sized to slidably fit within a central channel. Hands free operation is achieved by attaching the self holding square to a work surface and then inserting the level into a central channel. An alternative embodiment uses one or more levels which are integrally mounted on the square.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: John Byrn
  • Patent number: 5809659
    Abstract: An angle guide instrument having particular utility for handrail installation which includes a body portion having an outer arcuate edge and first and second arms which are pivotable with respect to the body and are used in conjunction with levels mounted to the body for determining angles for purposes of cutting sections of handrail. In a preferred embodiment the arms include extensions which are profiled so as to be cooperatively seated with a section of handrail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Inventor: Lawrence R. Martin
  • Patent number: 5806197
    Abstract: A level tool is arranged to facilitate gradient measurement and matching of lines on inclined surfaces, such as to establish parallel reference lines when installing roofing materials. The tool has a rule-like base member defining an elongated reference edge, and has a centrally located protrusion on its lower surface and a level on its upper surface for sensing orientation of the tool around an axis perpendicular to the base member and to the level. The level can have a fluid filled disk or circularly arched tube with a captive air bubble, and preferably is graduated to mark positions of the bubble. The tool is placed on the inclined surface so that the raised protrusion rests against the inclined surface and a reference edge is parallel to the plane of the surface and aligned to a pre-existing line to be matched with a parallel line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Anthony Angelucci
  • Patent number: 5768790
    Abstract: An angle indicator for connection to a pipe bender having an elongated handle or the like, which is generally characterized by the presence of: (a) a pivoting linear member having a spirit level thereon/therein for determining when it is horizontal; (b) which pivoting linear member is pivotally attached to another linear member which includes means by which it may be attached to the handle of the pipe bender being used in such manner that it is horizontal when the pipe bender is initially affixed to a pipe to be bent; and (c) means by which the relation between the two linear members may be nonpermanently set at a preselected angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Robert C. Norman
  • Patent number: 5720114
    Abstract: A tool for aligning vinyl corner posts during installation has a flat, generally L-shaped body member. The body member is formed from first and second leg portions which meet in a 90.degree. angle. An aperture is formed in the interior edge of the body member which is symmetrically disposed with respect to the 90.degree. angle for receiving a vinyl corner post. To use the tool, the vinyl corner post is pushed into the aperture where it fits snugly. The assembly is then pressed against the corner of the building, and the flat interior edges of the legs of the body member are pressed against the sides of the house to align the corner post to the building. The corner post is then nailed into position, while sliding the tool on the corner post to maintain the proper orientation along the entire length of the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 24, 1998
    Inventor: Scott J. Guerin
  • Patent number: 5713135
    Abstract: A multi-purpose carpentry measuring device is described. The tool combines the functions of a framing square, level and plum bob in one function and with just one measurement. Further, the tool can also be used as a bevel gauge and a level bench marker. A foot and leg member, joined by a pivot, contain bubble tubes for all necessary horizontal and vertical level measurements. Extendible rules on both members further increase the usefulness of the device. The tool has a built-in magnetic disc and bar code reader for continuously displaying angular read out on an integral calculator. Laser pin lights at either end of the tool allow for laser precision in all level bench marker observations as may be facilitated by a positioning pin disposed in said device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Inventor: Brad M. Acopulos
  • Patent number: 5675901
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a segmented, combination level and square that has a rotating joint. In a preferred embodiment, this hand tool provides the user with many optional tools in one. The tool can be configured as a level, a T-square, a framing square, a T-bevel, or a pocket square. In a preferred embodiment, this multi-segmented combination tool also provides the user with a convenient way not only to configure a level, in one inch increments, to any length from several inches to at least ten feet in length, but also to create more than one tool at a time such as a T-level and a framing square. In other preferred embodiments, the user is provided with optional features that enable them to carry on-site a single tool that can perform all tasks needed to do general construction layout such as roof framing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: James D. Young
  • Patent number: 5636825
    Abstract: A hanging device for frames comprising a supporting assembly that is mounted to a vertical wall and a hanging assembly that is rigidly mounted to the back of a frame or other object to be hung. The hanging assembly has front and rear walls separated by an upper wall. The upper wall is removably mounted to the supporting assembly. The supporting assembly has a tubular shape with a rectangular cross-section. The supporting assembly includes a straight edge against which the straight upper wall of the hanging assembly rests ensuring that the frame will conform to the same orientation, typically horizontal, of the straight edge. A leveling device is mounted to the supporting assembly to facilitate the determination of the position of the latter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Carlos Pernas
  • Patent number: 5586395
    Abstract: A level angle gauge is used to capture an angular measurement on a structure. The level angle gauge includes an elongated body structure, a leveling element connected to the body structure, an arm structure pivotally connected to the body and an arm lock mechanism that locks and unlocks to allow and inhibit pivotal movement of the arm structure. The body structure has opposite sides and a reference surface extending therebetween. The arm has an arm surface that is in a common plane with the reference surface in a first position. The arm lock mechanism being dimensioned to be less than the width of the reference surface. The body structure is formed as a web having opposite flange, one of which is foreshortened. The arm structure includes a pair of parallel arm members such that the web of the body structure interposed therebetween. A connector piece joins the arm members, and a notch is provided in the web to receive the connector piece when the arm structure is in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Assignee: Malczewski Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerry P. Malczewski
  • Patent number: 5560116
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a flexible leveling device for use on curved surfaces. The flexible leveling device comprises an elongated rectangular body having a longitudinal axis and being capable of at least 360.degree. flexion about its longitudinal axis. A first spirit level is operatively connected to the elongated body. A holder preferably secures the spirit level to the elongated rectangular body, allowing the spirit level to remain substantially in position during flexion of the elongated body. The holder preferably comprises a first portion operatively connected to the rectangular body, with the spirit level operatively connected to the second portion of the holder. The elongated rectangular body preferably further comprises a first projection located near the first terminal edge, and a second projection located near the second terminal edge. The projections facilitate placement of the flexible leveling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventor: Frank Tobia
  • Patent number: 5535523
    Abstract: A carpenter's square is provided which is uniquely configured for use in the construction of a building which utilizes metal framing members. The square is adapted to enable a steel wall stud to be aligned and oriented relative to a steel track to which the stud is to be fastened, and thereafter maintained in proper alignment while the stud is being secured to the track. The square includes a pair of detachable legs. One leg has an inner longitudinal edge formed with a longitudinal recess which extends across the entire width of the edge, such that a gap is created between the leg and a planar surface abutted against the edge of the leg. The longitudinal recess accommodates a portion of the track which extends over the stud, as well as the head of a fastener used to secure the stud to the track. To stabilize and secure the square to the wall stud, at least one of the legs is equipped with a magnetic portion which magnetically adheres the leg to the stud or track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventor: Matthew K. Endris
  • Patent number: 5524353
    Abstract: A leveling device for extending a course of siding around an interior or exterior building corner includes a center link and two elongate planar arms pivotedly attached to the link. The arms are provided with alignment edges for fitting under edges of siding and aligning the siding on the building. Recesses are provided in the arms adjacent the length and a pocket is provided in the link between the hinges. The recesses and pocket space the device from a corner molding secured to the building prior to attaching siding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1996
    Inventor: George Fink
  • Patent number: 5519942
    Abstract: A device for performing levelling and transit functions is disclosed herein having an elongated member with parallel spaced-apart top and bottom flat surfaces separated by a thickened web. The web includes several cutouts exposing bubble indicators arranged in a variety of orientations and includes a rotary module at one end movably mounting a laser beam generator. The module has a passageway conducting a laser beam to a selected one of several slots or passageways provided in the end of the member in response to manual rotation of the module by the user whereby the beam exits the device in a linear path. The web includes a housing adjacent to the module enclosing electrical circuits, battery power supply and button controls for operation of the laser. A pivoting panel is coextensive with the top flat surface in a stored position while pivotal to a position normal to the top flat surface when used as a corner square.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventor: James Webb
  • Patent number: 5509213
    Abstract: A picture hanger aligning device and method for locating and aligning one or more picture hangers on a wall. An elongated, vertical center member and an elongated horizontal member having hooks protruding outwardly therefrom are connected in a triangular fashion by two elongated side members. A picture is hung from hooks on the horizontal member or, alternatively, from a hook on the vertical member, and held in a desired position against a wall. The position of a scribe hole in the vertical member is marked by inserting a marking utensil through the scribe hole, the picture is removed from the device, and the device is held against the wall in the desired position by aligning the scribe hole with the corresponding mark on the wall. The position of the hooks from which the picture is hung is then marked on the wall by inserting a writing utensil through scribe holes associated with the hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Inventors: Mary H. Kelly, Malcolm T. Kelly, John Kelly
  • Patent number: 5479717
    Abstract: To increase the slip resistance of level indicators, which comprise an elongate body, spirit level capsules inserted therein and protective end caps, the contact surface adjoining the measuring surface of the level indicator is provided with zones having a high coefficient of friction, for example by clipping on strips consisting of rubber, rubber like plastics material or felt. The strips are shaped to cause the body to incline so that the measuring surface is more toward the support which the contact surface faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Stabila-Massgerate Gustav Ullrich GmbH
    Inventor: Peter von Wedemeyer
  • Patent number: 5459935
    Abstract: A combination tool for craftsmen including a square, a level, a plumb indicator, a slope measurement device, a linear scale, and a straight edge. The tool includes a pair of elongated members joined at a hinge with a protractor scale for measuring the angle between the members. The hinge comprises a sturdy clevis arrangement which allows a central fastening assembly to be tightened to provide friction in order to set the angle between the two arms without other locking structure. A series of markings along one edge of each of the members provides a linear scale. Each of the elongated members have an I-beam construction with a central web and a pair of side flanges. A number of elongated cutouts are provided for handles. A second series of cutouts are provided to position a plurality of spirit level indicators. Some of the spirit level indicators are aligned along the longitudinal axis of the members, while others are positioned transverse to the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Inventors: Eldon D. Paulson, Gregory A. Paulson
  • Patent number: 5456015
    Abstract: A multipurpose rectangular layout Ultra-square which incorporates attributes of a triangular shaped-square, Carpenter-square and is designed for use in conjunction with a conventional tape measure. The tape measure is attached in such a way that it forms a right angle to the layout square for measuring distances for a framing layout, enabling a user to mark multiple parallel lines in a perpendicular direction at specified distances measured from the end of the tape. The square has indicia in calibrated scales for rafter, angle and linear measurements. The squares base extends elongated. A guide is attached at a right angle and perpendicular to the base. The base and guide have edges and notches for dimensional marking and indicia placement. Some of these edges are used to significantly reduce the steps required for rafter layout. The square is dimensioned to compliment the size of standard material used in construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: Applied Concepts Engineering
    Inventors: Richard L. Butcher, Michael P. Tedsen
  • Patent number: 5452522
    Abstract: A framing layout tool includes two squares each with two legs or blades 90.degree. apart. The squares are pivotally attached at their vertices by a pivot pin including a knurled locking nut. One of the squares includes a longitudinally aligned electronic plumb and level indicator on one of the legs. The other leg of that square includes indicia on a leg reference edge for indicating rise-over-run integers representative of the angular separation of that other leg and a leg of the other square. Indicia indicating the actual angle between such legs is also contained on an opposite reference edge of that other leg. The layout tool has particular utility for accurately marking the location of a plumb cut, seat cuts and a ridge cut in roof rafters where the blade of the second square is placed on an inclined rafter and oriented with the electronic level in a vertical plumb position. When a visual and auditory indication of exact plumb is obtained the clamping nut is locked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 26, 1995
    Assignee: Zircon Corporation
    Inventors: Donald D. Kook, Gary R. Schultheis, John R. Stauss, Douglas R. Grundstrom
  • Patent number: 5446969
    Abstract: A combination square and multi-purpose hand tool can be utilized as a large number of hand tools including a square, bevel square, stud and ceiling strapping spacer, clamp, caliper, string tender, and scribe. A first L shaped member includes a blade portion and a handle portion. A second member is pivotably and slidably coupled to the blade portion of the first member. Individual member dimensions such as the overall length of the first member, the maximum extended length of the second member along the first member, and the width of the blade portion of the first member are pre-established at selected lengths and widths, to provide predetermined functions for the present multi-purpose hand tool such as a stud spacer, ceiling strapping spacer and string tender.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Inventor: Robert Terenzoni
  • Patent number: 5438761
    Abstract: A level apparatus incorporates a ruler member for making linear measurements and a level support assembly which is rotatably mounted on the ruler member. The level support assembly is mounted in the center of the ruler member and includes a pair of brackets which support a cylindrically shaped level. The level support assembly includes a circular array of indicia for making angular measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Inventors: Luba M. Krumszyn, Zinovi Khabal
  • Patent number: 5412875
    Abstract: An expandable level is provided, which consists of a main frame, at least one leveling vial mounted within the main frame, an extension frame and a mechanism for adjusting the position of the extension frame with respect to the main frame, so that an effective length of the level can be increased and decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Hilderbrandt
  • Patent number: 5396707
    Abstract: A tool for use in hanging a door, the tool comprising in combination a border element having a vertical component, a horizontal component, a first surface, a second surface, and a peripheral edge interconnecting the first and second surfaces with the peripheral edge having an inner extent defining the angle between the components and an outer extent formed opposite the inner extent; a plurality of vertical slots formed through the vertical component of the border element; a plurality of horizontal slots formed through the horizontal component of the border element; and a plurality of spacing tabs, the number of spacing tabs corresponding to the total number of horizontal and vertical slots, each tab adapted to be received within one of the horizontal or vertical slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Danny Blase