Patents by Inventor Randy G. Cooper

Randy G. Cooper has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7975737
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing above the table securing/unsecuring of a router motor housing. The mechanism of the present invention employs a mechanical connection included on a pivot member to couple with a wrench device extended through the tabletop. The mechanism permits a user to adjust or release the motor housing without having to reach under the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Greg K. Griffin, Randy G. Cooper
  • Publication number: 20100146763
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing above the table securing/unsecuring of a router motor housing. The mechanism of the present invention employs a mechanical connection included on a pivot member to couple with a wrench device extended through the tabletop. The mechanism permits a user to adjust or release the motor housing without having to reach under the table surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Publication date: June 17, 2010
    Applicant: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Greg K. Griffin, Randy G. Cooper
  • Patent number: 7686046
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing above the table securing/unsecuring of a router motor housing. The mechanism of the present invention employs a mechanical connection included on a pivot member to couple with a wrench device extended through the tabletop. The mechanism permits a user to adjust or release the motor housing without having to reach under the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Greg K. Griffin, Derrick Kilbourne, Randy G. Cooper, Ginger L. Allen
  • Patent number: 7654294
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient grasping of a router adjacent base/motor housing includes a base for supporting a motor housing for driving a working tool. A generally L-shaped handle including a connecting member and grasping member is connected to the base for permitting a user to comfortably manipulate the power tool adjacent the motor housing. In further aspect, a removable a generally L-shaped handle includes a channel extending through the handle for directing dust and debris away from the working tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne, Jeremy D. Leasure
  • Publication number: 20090114312
    Abstract: A router includes a motor housing containing a motor and coupled to a tool holder configured to receive a tool bit that is driven rotationally by the motor. A base receives the motor housing for movement in an axial direction along a longitudinal axis of the motor housing. A depth adjustment mechanism enables adjustment of a position of the motor housing relative to the base along the axial direction. The depth adjustment mechanism has a threaded shaft rotationally coupled to one of the motor housing and the base and a thread engaging member coupled to the other of the motor housing and the base. The threaded shaft is engageable with the thread engaging member. A seam defined in the base adjacent to the depth adjustment mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Publication number: 20090114313
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient grasping of a router adjacent base/motor housing includes a base for supporting a motor housing for driving a working tool. A generally L-shaped handle including a connecting member and grasping member is connected to the base for permitting a user to comfortably manipulate the power tool adjacent the motor housing. In further aspect, a removable a generally L-shaped handle includes a channel extending through the handle for directing dust and debris away from the working tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Publication date: May 7, 2009
    Applicant: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne, Jeremy D. Leasure
  • Patent number: 7490642
    Abstract: A router depth adjustment mechanism for minimizing rapid course depth adjustment for standard and plunge routers. Routers with rapid or course adjustment mechanisms may permit a router motor housing to drop suddenly, if the user is inattentive. Sudden adjustments may result in damage to the router and potentially contact the user. The mechanism of the present invention includes a threaded shaft and a biased thread engaging member which may be disengaged for rapid adjustment. A restraining device and/or a break may be included to minimize the rate of change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Publication number: 20080302447
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing above the table securing/unsecuring of a router motor housing. The mechanism of the present invention employs a mechanical connection included on a pivot member to couple with a wrench device extended through the tabletop. The mechanism permits a user to adjust or release the motor housing without having to reach under the table surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Publication date: December 11, 2008
    Applicant: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Greg K. Griffin, Derrick Kilbourne, Randy G. Cooper, Ginger L. Allen
  • Publication number: 20080283147
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router including a motor housing for at least partially enclosing a motor, a base having a sleeve for receiving the motor housing therein. The base is constructed to at least partially support the motor housing on a workpiece. The router additionally includes an electrical switch disposed substantially in a quadrant, defined by a first axis extending through generally opposing handles, and a second axis, extending normal to the first axis, and generally bisecting the motor housing, of the motor housing. Preferably, the electrical switch is disposed in the range of 30° (thirty degrees) to 60° (sixty degrees) from the second axis and particularly at approximately 45° (forty-five degrees) to allow for comfortable grasping of the motor housing/base, easy repeatable switch manipulation, and the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7451791
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for providing convenient grasping of a router adjacent base/motor housing includes a base for supporting a motor housing for driving a working tool. A generally L-shaped handle including a connecting member and grasping member is connected to the base for permitting a user to comfortably manipulate the power tool adjacent the motor housing. In further aspect, a removable a generally L-shaped handle includes a channel extending through the handle for directing dust and debris away from the working tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne, Jeremy D. Leasure
  • Publication number: 20080156396
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for providing convenient grasping of a router adjacent base/motor housing includes a base for supporting a motor housing for driving a working tool. A generally L-shaped handle including a connecting member and grasping member is connected to the base for permitting a user to comfortably manipulate the power tool adjacent the motor housing. In further aspect, a removable a generally L-shaped handle includes a channel extending through the handle for directing dust and debris away from the working tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne, Jeremy D. Leasure
  • Patent number: 7334613
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a mechanism and method for providing above the table securing/unsecuring of a router motor housing. The mechanism of the present invention employs a mechanical connection included on a pivot member to couple with a wrench device extended through the tabletop. The mechanism permits a user to adjust or release the motor housing without having to reach under the table surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Greg K. Griffin, Randy G. Cooper, Derrick Kilbourne, Ginger L. Allen
  • Patent number: 7334614
    Abstract: A depth adjustment mechanism, disposed on a router, is enabled using a worm drive that includes a shaft member engaging with a rack member. The shaft member couples with a sleeve disposed on a base of the router. The rack member is coupled with a motor casing of the router. The depth adjustment mechanism enables a user selectable engagement of the shaft member with the rack member. A rotating member, which is coupled with the shaft member, is engaged by a user to displace the shaft member relative to the rack member. The selective engagement of the shaft member with the rack member and rotation enabled by the rotating member enables continuous metered depth adjustment for the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7316528
    Abstract: An ergonomically designed router assembly includes a base assembly coupled with a motor casing including a grip assembly which provides an overall narrower profile to the router assembly. The grip assembly may relieves stress on the muscles and allows the operator to more securely grasp the router with one hand thus decreasing fatigue levels as compared to those routers which require both hands of the operator to be engaged for control over the router.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7303364
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7108464
    Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7089979
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router including a motor housing for at least partially enclosing a motor, a base having a sleeve for receiving the motor housing therein. The base is constructed to at least partially support the motor housing on a workpiece. The router additionally includes an electrical switch disposed substantially in a quadrant, defined by a first axis extending through generally opposing handles, and a second axis, extending normal to the first axis, and generally bisecting the motor housing, of the motor housing. Preferably, the electrical switch is disposed in the range of 30° (thirty degrees) to 60° (sixty degrees) from the second axis and particularly at approximately 45° (forty-five degrees) to allow for comfortable grasping of the motor housing/base, easy repeatable switch manipulation, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 7073993
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly of the present invention includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
  • Patent number: 6986369
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a router depth adjustment mechanism for minimizing rapid course depth adjustment for standard and plunge routers. Routers with rapid or course adjustment mechanisms may permit a router motor housing to drop suddenly, if the user in inattentive. Sudden adjustments may result in damage to the router and even user injury. The mechanism of the present invention includes a threaded shaft and a biased thread engaging member which may be disengaged for rapid adjustment. A restraining device and/or a break may be included to minimize the rate of change.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Greg K. Griffin, Derrick Kilbourne, Mark A. Etter, Ginger L. Allen
  • Patent number: 6261036
    Abstract: Improvements made to a router relate to a plunge router locking system. The locking system comprises a locking arm lever coupled to a threaded member arm which engages a plunge guide post to hold the router motor housing at a desired height above the router base when the locking arm member is in the locked position. When the locking arm member is moved into an unlocked position, the motor housing can move up and down the plunge guide post, where the motor housing is opposed by a bias system comprising a compression spring to prevent the motor housing from free-falling into the router base. Additionally, the locking arm lever can be held in the unlocked position with the use of a mating coupling member attached to the motor housing in order to keep the plunge locking system in an unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Porter-Cable Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Bosten, James T. Stolzer, Randy G. Cooper, Waymon L. McNeal, Jr.