Abstract: This invention is directed to a novel, portable, self-powered laser alignment device which can simultaneously generate plumb, square and level laser reference points. The laser alignment device is comprised of a main body that is pendulously suspended from a unit housing. The main body is adapted to house a plurality of orthogonally oriented laser diodes that, when energized, produce a plurality of orthogonal output beams to allow the operator to easily mark plumb, square and level reference points. The laser alignment device is self-leveling, which eliminates the time consuming calibration previously required for instrument setup. The movement of the main body is dampened by use of a magnetic dampening system that is comprised of a non-magnetic metallic plate, which is passed through a permanent magnetic field. The housing of the laser alignment device contains the main body, the laser diodes, the dampening system and a power supply to energize the diodes.

Abstract: A locking device for a prism pole having a first telescoping member slidably located within a second telescoping member to selectively lock and unlock the first telescoping member relative to the second telescoping member. The locking device includes a housing having a sidewall with a bore extending therethrough. The upper end of the outer telescoping member is attached to the housing and the inner telescoping member is slidably located within the bore of the housing. First and second locking mechanisms, each comprising an annular ring, are disposed within the housing. Each ring includes a bore through which the inner telescoping member extends. The first locking mechanism is selectively pivotal between a first position, wherein the annular ring engages the inner telescoping member to prevent sliding movement in a first direction while allowing sliding movement in a second and opposite direction, and a second position wherein the first locking mechanism allows sliding movement in either direction.