Abstract: An improved laser adjustment mechanism providing precision alignment of the laser in two dimensions. The mechanism includes a pair of biased threaded mechanisms orthogonally captured by a laser module, which are adjustable to pivot the laser in a plane substantially even with the plane of the laser light emission. The threaded mechanisms are adjustable from the exterior of the level and can precisely align the laser device by placing the device on a surface. A first laser spot is measured at a distant plane, then the device is turned over on the same surface and a second target spot is measured on the same plane. The laser is adjusted half way between the two target spots to precisely align the pitch of the device. The device then can be turned on the side to align the yaw of the device.

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.

Abstract: An input apparatus for use with a computer, including a housing having a top aperture and a bottom aperture, a spherical member supported in the housing so that a portion thereof protrudes through the top and bottom apertures, and encoding means for transforming the motion of the ball into computer compatible signals, wherein the input apparatus can be moved over a surface, so as to function as a mouse, or can be supported by its housing, with motive force applied to the portion of the spherical member protruding from the top aperture, so as to function as a trackball.