Abstract: A knife is described that is capable of extending a blade from a front end of the blade, and subsequently retracting the blade into the body of the knife. Actuation of the blade from extended to retracted conditions is accomplished by way of an actuation element located external to the knife. A user may strike the knife backwards onto a work surface to extend the blade and, subsequently, to retract the blade. The same action by the user may be used to achieve the extended and the retracted blade condition.

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 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 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 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.

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 tool includes a pair of spaced apart substantially parallel arms carrying a mounting member to which are detachably connected axially oriented driver and drill elements. The mounting member is moveable along the arms reciprocally between a first position where it is manually rotated to select the axial orientation of the driver and drill elements and a second locked position to hold the driver and drill elements in a selected axial orientation until the mounting member is return to the first position. The locking function is provided by a spring element actuated upon the mounting member being moved from the first position to the second position to apply pressure against the mounting member while in the second position.

Abstract: An air compressor assembly including a rotatable handle that provides protection and structure for transporting the apparatus. The apparatus further includes a plurality of air tanks each of which are configured to be removable and replaced when necessary.