Socket Type Patents (Class 206/378)
  • Patent number: 5975297
    Abstract: A device for holding sockets includes a body with two rails formed to two sides thereof and a plurality of connecting members are slidably mounted to the rails. A head member is disengagably engaged to the body so as to attach the device to a user's belt. Each of the connecting members has a socket mounted thereto. The body further has a retaining member formed thereto so that a ratchet tool is removably retained by the retaining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventor: Jui-Chien Kao
  • Patent number: 5957286
    Abstract: A tool box includes an upper frame with a transparent cover mounted thereto and a lower frame with a base member connected to the bottom thereof, a first recess defined in one of the sides of upper frame which is defined by two end walls so that a locking device is movably received in the first recess. The locking device has a flexible plate extending therefrom and a hook extending form the bottom thereof. A second recess is defined in the top surface of the lower frame and a slot defined through the top surface so that the hook is movably engaged with the slot. The flexible plate is urged against to the second end wall when the locking device is shifted to open the cover and will return to its original position by the flexible plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Chiu-Fu Ho
  • Patent number: 5937680
    Abstract: A device for concealing, storing and permitting ready access to and use of a handcuff key which is not readily identifiable as a key holder but is easily retrieved and utilized by law enforcement personnel. The handcuff key is camouflaged and concealed in a variety of devices, such as a ball point pen enclosure, a pocket knife holder and a rectangular case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 5931318
    Abstract: A tool bit holder includes a rectangular hollow base, and a swivel holder mounted within the hollow base and turned in and out of the hollow base about an axis, wherein the swivel holder has a finger strip at an outer side thereof for turning with the hand, the finger strip having two opposite ends respectively protruded from the outer side wall of the swivel holder in reversed directions, one end of the finger strip being stopped at an edge at the hollow base when the swivel holder is turned out of the hollow base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Shu-Shing Shauo
  • Patent number: 5897001
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the secure storage of sockets for ratchet wrenches. The invention includes a system for securely holding one or more of a set of detachable bits, used with ratchet wrenches or other tools, by means of a cam-actuated rotator member mounted within a channel guide. Further, a novel display apparatus is disclosed which provides a secure mounting system for a ratchet wrench together with a set of sockets. Finally, a extension arm system is provided for attaching an accessory device such as an extension bar to the apparatus so that the ratchet wrench, sockets and accessory may be conveniently stored and displayed together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Andrew E. Dembicks
  • Patent number: 5893498
    Abstract: A socket retaining mechanism to allow maintenance or construction personnel to quickly identify and gain access to a particularly sized socket. The present invention provides a socket retaining mechanism, preferably adapted to be worn on a utility belt, wherein a plurality of socket retaining mechanisms are strung from the utility belt, with each socket retainer being adapted to hold a particular socket. Each socket retainer includes means for retaining a socket thereon, and means for releasing a socket therefrom when it is so desired by the worker. As opposed to prior art systems, the present system increases the efficiency of the worker in that less time is required for searching for the socket of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Gina E. Aronson
  • Patent number: 5893457
    Abstract: A tool box includes a base portion with two side walls, two sliding plates slidably disposed to the two side walls and a plurality of receiving members pivotally connected between the two side walls at two ends of a front side thereof. The receiving members further are pivotally connected to the two sliding plates at the two ends of a rear side thereof. An actuating member is pivotally connected between the two side walls at two ends of a front side thereof, and between the two sliding plates at the two ends of a rear side thereof so that when pivoting the actuating member about the two ends of the front side thereof, the two sliding plates and the rear side of each the receiving members are moved upwardly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1999
    Inventor: Yong Lung Wei
  • Patent number: 5862913
    Abstract: A tool display assembly includes a card having a dove-tailed flange formed to a lower edge thereof, at least one connecting member having a dove-tailed groove defined in a top thereof sa as to receive the dove-tailed flange therein and a lower end having four walls extending downwardly therefrom so as to form a rectangular portion to be received in a socket. An aperture is defined through a top of the lower end of the connecting member. A hook member has a hook formed on a top thereof and a stop bar extending transversely from a lower end thereof such that the hook extends through the socket and the rectangular portion and is engaged with the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 26, 1999
    Inventor: Ta-Ching Chou
  • Patent number: 5855285
    Abstract: A socket holding system is disclosed which comprises a plurality of interlocking socket holders, each of said holders comprising a base and means for holding sockets mounted thereon. Each base interlocks with other bases, preferably, using a tongue and groove combination. Further, each base is secured to a substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignees: Gene E. Laird, Deena L. Iannella
    Inventors: Gene E. Laird, Deena L. Iannella, Diane M. Fales, Kevin A. Fales
  • Patent number: 5855284
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the secure storage of sockets for ratchet wrenches and other types of interchangeable bit members for tools such as screwdrivers, nut drivers, routers, etc., having integral shafts or shaft receiving members. The invention includes a system for securely holding one or more of a set of detachable bits, used with ratchet wrenches or other tools, by means of a cam-actuated rotator member mounted within a channel guide. Further, a novel socket display apparatus is disclosed which provides a secure mounting system for the cam actuated receiving unit. The socket display apparatus provides for snap lock engagement of the display apparatus with a ratchet wrench socket or other tool bit whereby the socket or bit may only be removed by destroying the display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Inventor: Andrew E. Dembicks
  • Patent number: 5848694
    Abstract: A tool carrier has a top portion with an upstanding handle and slidably mounted clips for engaging sockets and fixed spring clips for securely holding socket wrenches, ratchet handles, adapters and the like. Two opposed sides depend from the top portion and support a lower panel provided with upstanding resilient fibers such as outdoor carpet. When elongate items such as an assortment of end wrenches are pushed into the space between the top portion and the panel, the fibers securely hold the items in place with their ends exposed for easy selection. An optional drawer may be slidably mounted beneath the panel. The carrier is adapted for mounting in a toolbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1998
    Inventor: Harold L. Newton
  • Patent number: 5842365
    Abstract: A key-retaining system is provided which includes a key holder and a key holder retainer. The key holder is a substantially continuous member having ends and sides, for example one continuous wire, and provides an interior space between the sides and ends of the member. The ends are separated by a predetermined distance substantially greater than the length of a key. One of the sides or ends includes a device to permit fastening of keys upon the member. The key holder retainer includes a hollow extending substantially from end to end of the key holder retainer and adapted to receive the key holder in use. Keys may be fastened on the key holder and positioned in a flat position within the interior space of the key holder. The key holder retainer is then friction fit onto the key holder remote the key heads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Corrado Bordonaro
  • Patent number: 5839579
    Abstract: A sleeve tool kit has a tool box, a recess interior formed in the tool box, and a block seat inserted in the recess interior. The block seat has two opposite balls and a plurality of positioning protrusions. The tool box has two opposite ball-shaped grooves, two opposite round holes, two opposite guide grooves, and two opposite toothed semicircular grooves. The opposite ball-shaped grooves are formed on two opposite ends of the recess interior. The opposite round holes are formed on the opposite ends of the recess interior. The opposite guide grooves are formed on the opposite ends of the recess interior. The opposite toothed semicircular grooves are formed on the opposite ends of the recess interior. Each opposite ball is inserted in the respective opposite ball-shaped groove via the respective opposite round hole and the respective opposite guide groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Inventor: Grace Lee
  • Patent number: 5813531
    Abstract: A tool box assembly includes a tool box including two side walls each having a first end portion defining a slot. An inverted U-shaped lid includes two side plates each having a first end portion defining an inverted L-shaped channel and a second end portion pivotally mounted on a second end portion of a corresponding one of the two side walls of the tool box. The channel of each of the two side plates includes a longitudinal recess alignable with the slot and a recess perpendicular to the longitudinal recess. A U-shaped handle includes two legs. Two snapping members each include a stub fixedly mounted on a corresponding one of the two legs of the handle and slidably extending through the longitudinal recess of a corresponding one of the two side plates of the lid and through the slot of an associated side wall of the tool box, and a cone-shaped enlarged head urged on an inner periphery of the side wall of the tool box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: Jui-Chien Kao
  • Patent number: 5799789
    Abstract: A container for sockets is fabricated from molded plastic components including opposed sections or segments forming a case with a circular through passage that accepts or retains a socket storage wheel. A rotatable cover fits over the socket storage wheel immediate a molded handle and a molded storage pocket. The cover interacts with a hinged lid associated with an auxiliary storage pocket. Sockets may be stored on pegs positioned on the storage wheels and ratchets, extensions and other tool items may be retained within the auxiliary storage pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Assignee: Waterloo Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred Philip Ritchie, David Allen Trower
  • Patent number: 5782150
    Abstract: A tool handle includes a base and a cap pivotally coupled together. The base includes a flange and two punctures and a latch formed in one side edge for engaging with a groove and two projections and an ear of the cap such that the cap may be solidly secured to the base. The base includes a number of holes and the cap includes a number of cavities for partially receiving tool bits and for allowing the tool bits to be easily disengaged from the base. The base includes a chamber and the cap includes a space for engaging with the tool bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Yung Hsu Huang
  • Patent number: 5758769
    Abstract: A tool case is provided with more storage than conventional tool cases, and has a lidded storage area which does not reduce the area available for primary storage. The box portion of the tool case has a recess in the bottom thereof, defining a secondary storage area on the opposite side of the case from the lid. The secondary storage area also has a lid, so that pieces can be stored without falling out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Assignee: Mastercut Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Kailash C. Vasudeva
  • Patent number: 5743395
    Abstract: A socket holder for a plurality of socket wrench sockets has studs projecting from a top surface, each of the studs being sized and shaped closely uniquely to engage a particular socket so that the socket on a stud will not be accidentally dislodged, and the stud can be used to measure a nut or the head of a bolt before the socket is employed. The studs are accompanied by indicia of size. Preferably, the indicia may be tactilely read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Inventor: William E. Backer
  • Patent number: 5743394
    Abstract: The magnetic socket holder according to the present invention includes a plurality magnets and associated posts which are adapted to receive sockets of varying sizes. The invention provides ready access to each socket and allows easy one handed removal and replacement of sockets. The magnetic socket holder includes a base having a series of recesses and magnets disposed in each of the recesses. Each of the magnets is provided with an associated post which is adapted to be receive within a socket. The posts and the magnets are preferably mounted to the base by a rivet. The magnets create a magnetic field which is sufficient to retain the sockets on the posts. While the combination of all the magnets provides a magnetic field which is sufficient to retain the socket holder and attached sockets on a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1998
    Assignee: Southern Mag-Clip, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Martin
  • Patent number: 5740911
    Abstract: A display pack having a security device includes a hanging portion with a disk extending laterally therefrom which has at least two opposite walls extending therefrom, and a securing member. The hanging portion has a first hole defined therethrough and the disk has a second hole defined therethrough, each of the side walls has a protrusion extending therefrom so that the two side walls are securely inserted into a socket with the protrusion engaging with a recess defined in an inner periphery of the socket. The securing member has a flange extending radially from a lower end thereof and a hook member extending from an upper end thereof so that the securing member extends through the socket and the hook member is engaged with the second hole of the disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1998
    Inventor: Ta-Ching Chou
  • Patent number: 5725096
    Abstract: A magnetic tool management system with a magnetically attracting material having a number of spaced apart apertures of a size and shape for accommodating at least one surface of a tool. The magnetically attracting member optionally has indicia disposed thereon describing a tool corresponding to at least one of the apertures. The apertures are generally organized in a substantially planar array. The array includes substantially circular apertures which hold sockets in a variant. Optionally, an overlay is applied to the magnetically attracting member. The overlay has optional indicia thereon describing a tool corresponding to at least one of the respective apertures. The tool management system further includes a plurality of sockets disposed within the substantially circular apertures, and is used in a tool box having at least one accessible compartment. The tool box has tools, or portions thereof, such as sockets disposed in the apertures of the tool management system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Stanley Winnard
  • Patent number: 5725107
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the secure storage of sockets for ratchet wrenches and other types of interchangeable bit members for tools such as screwdrivers, nut drivers, routers, etc., having integral shafts or shaft receiving members. The invention includes a system for securely holding one or more of a set of detachable bits, used with ratchet wrenches or other tools, by means of a cam-actuated rotator member mounted within a channel guide. Further, a novel socket display apparatus is disclosed which provides a secure mounting system for the cam actuated receiving unit. The socket display apparatus provides for snap lock engagement of the display apparatus with a ratchet wrench socket or other tool bit whereby the socket or bit may only be removed by destroying the display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew E. Dembicks
  • Patent number: 5715951
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for the secure storage of sockets for ratchet wrenches and other types of interchangeable bit members for tools such as screwdrivers, nut drivers, routers, etc., having integral shafts or shaft receiving members. The invention includes a system for securely holding one or more of a set of detachable bits, used with ratchet wrenches or other tools, by means of a cam-actuated rotator member mounted within a channel guide. Further, the apparatus includes a strip member engaged along a gap formed by the rotator members to thereby maintain engagement of the bit members, and a retaining means engaged with the channel guide to prevent disengagement of the strip member from the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew E. Dembicks
  • Patent number: 5704260
    Abstract: A tool handle includes a base and a cap pivotally coupled together at a folding line. The base includes a flange and two punctures and a latch formed in one side edge. The cap includes a groove and two projections and an ear for engaging with the flange and the punctures and the latch of the base such that the cap may be solidly secured to the base. The base includes a number of cavities and holes for partially receiving various kinds of tool bits and for allowing the tool bits to be easily disengaged from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Inventor: Yung-Hsu Huang
  • Patent number: 5704236
    Abstract: A device for concealing, storing and permitting ready access to and use of a handcuff key which is not readily identifiable as a key holder but is easily retrieved and utilized by law enforcement personnel. The handcuff key is camouflaged and concealed in a variety of devices, such as a ball point pen enclosure, a pocket knife holder and a rectangular case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 6, 1998
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 5690212
    Abstract: A box for retaining keys includes a pair of bases secured to the upper portion and the lower portion and a pair of brackets secured to the bases. The brackets each includes a pair of parallel plates and each includes one or more shafts secured between the plates. One or more panels each includes a pair of fins secured to the upper portion and the lower portion and secured to the shafts of the brackets for allowing the panel to be rotatably secured to the shafts. The shafts each includes a neck portion of reduced size. The fins each includes an orifice for rotatably engaging with the shafts and each includes a notch for engaging with the neck portion of the shaft and for allowing the shaft to be engaged with the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Inventor: Chin-Lien Huang Hsu
  • Patent number: 5669516
    Abstract: A holder for supporting magnetic cylindrical tools of varying diameter such as wrench sockets, drill bits, etc. in order. A member having a series of recesses having shapes corresponding to the tools to be held is backed by an elongated magnet. In one embodiment, the member is a non-magnetic material and the magnet is made up of a plurality of transverse magnetic regions, having alternately north and south pole regions on the surface toward the recesses, with the lines between adjacent north and south regions aligned with the centerline of the recesses and a narrow non-magnetized region separating each pair of adjacent magnetic regions. The magnet may be in the form of individual magnet pairs spaced along a magnetic metal sheet with the interface between each magnet pair aligned with a recess. A magnet layer may be provided on the back of the metal sheet so that the assembly may be mounted on a magnetic metal surface. Other variations in magnet and recess structure are described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Billy Lee Horn
  • Patent number: 5660276
    Abstract: A magnetic tool organizer has a top body member having a plurality of spaced apart body member apertures of a size and shape for accommodating at least one surface of a tool. The apertures am organized in a planar array according to an outline of at least one surface of a tool. The magnetic organizer has a bottom body member, and a magnetic segment having a plurality of spaced apart apertures complimentary to at least part of the top body member apertures. The magnetic segment is interposed between the top body member and the bottom body member. A method of manufacturing a tool display includes the steps of self-assembling a magnetically attracting tool retaining apparatus to a plurality of magnetically attractable tools by automatically positioning tools in apertures disposed on the tool retaining apparatus with a strong magnetic force emanating from the tool retaining apparatus as a result of the arrangement of the components of the tool retaining apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 26, 1997
    Inventor: Stanley D. Winnard
  • Patent number: 5645177
    Abstract: A tool rack includes a rack and a plurality of blocks disposed to the rack, the rack having a T-shaped slot defined longitudinally in a front surface thereof and a bottom surface defining the T-shaped slot, a plurality of notches defined in the bottom surface for engagement with the blocks and each of the notches defined by an inclined surface extending toward the bottom surface and a horizontal bottom, the block including a front part and a rear part which is T-shaped for engagement with the T-shaped slot and has a triangular protrusion extending from a distal end thereof for engagement with the notch, the front part having an engaging device disposed to a distal end thereof for engagement with a tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Da-sen Lin
  • Patent number: 5620089
    Abstract: A magnetic key holding plaque comprised of a plaque having an inner surface and an outer surface. A plurality of magnets are secured within the inner surface of the plaque. A plurality of magnetic pendants are secured within the outer surface of the plaque opposed from the plurality of magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 15, 1997
    Inventor: Glenn A. Mills
  • Patent number: 5606897
    Abstract: A oil filter wrench and packaging arrangement therefore are disclosed. The oil filter wrench has a cup-shaped body with a socket formed therein for receiving the top of a conventional oil filter. The interior side wall has a step therein circumscribing the socket. The oil filter wrench can be packaged between a cardboard backing and plastic cover sheet such that the cover sheet over laps the rim of the cup-shaped body. The step spaces the plastic sheet from the socket, keeping the socket area open. With this packaging arrangement the consumer can try his oil filter with the wrench without destroying the package to determine whether the wrench suits his needs before purchasing it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: FloTool International, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory F. Quinn
  • Patent number: 5588659
    Abstract: A tool cart generally in the form of an upright stand provided with unique tool supports to enable a large number of tools to be supported in an accessible position. The tool supports are pivotally and separably supported to enable the tools to be easily carried to a work site. The stand includes a pair of removable wheels which do not engage a supporting surface when the stand is upright but do engage a supporting surface when the stand is tilted to provide a mobile cart that can be easily moved to a site of use of the tools supported by the cart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 31, 1996
    Assignee: Triple B Trenching, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Boes, Chad W. Boes, Douglas W. Boes
  • Patent number: 5573116
    Abstract: A tool tray for organizing and carrying sockets comprises a bottom wall; first and second side walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall; first and second end walls extending upwardly from the bottom wall; first and second handles secured respectively to the first and second end walls and disposed above the bottom wall; a plurality of rails disposed on the bottom wall; and a plurality of clips secured to each of the rails, the clips for removably securing the sockets. The first and second handles each includes a member for permitting a user to securely carry the tray with one hand. Convex shaped flanges are provided on the bottom surface of the bottom wall. A blank for forming the tool tray is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 12, 1996
    Inventor: Paul D. Zink
  • Patent number: 5570784
    Abstract: A tool organizer and deployment apparatus for various tools and accessories for tools. Rotatable flip indexes secure drill bits, power bits, sockets or other tool accessories and are conveniently stored in a tray and lid combination having a housing surface that removably secures the flip indexes. The housing also separately supports individual tools. The specific accessory, flip index or tool required may be grasped and removed from the tray for a specific task. The apparatus also utilizes a clear plastic cover to accommodate the display of the tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1996
    Assignee: Allied Wholesale, Inc.
    Inventors: Romie K. Sidabras, Jeffrey E. Bennett
  • Patent number: 5568741
    Abstract: A device for concealing, storing and permitting ready access to and use of a handcuff key which is not readily identifiable as a key holder but is easily retrieved and utilized by law enforcement personnel. The handcuff key is camouflaged and concealed in a variety of devices, such as a ball point pen enclosure, a pocket knife holder and a rectangular case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1996
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 5560480
    Abstract: A socket holder for a set of wrench sockets can be magnetically attached to any metal surface while firmly securing the sockets therein. The socket holder has individual sleeves, each capable of receiving a socket, and a radial contracting member secured to each sleeve within the holder for the purpose of gripping the socket as it is placed within the sleeve. In one embodiment of the invention, the radial contracting member is in the form of a resilient gasket attached to the inner walls of each sleeve. In another embodiment of the invention, the radial contracting member is a foam pad secured between the outer shell and a spacer plate, wherein the foam pad has pre-cut holes to align with the socket holder sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1996
    Inventor: Robert P. Singleton
  • Patent number: 5551320
    Abstract: A device for the removing of threaded fasteners with rounded off heads from nuts combinations thereof comprising a socket head having a partly cylindrical external configuration with an upper end and a lower end and an axis with a first axial length therebetween and with a surface on the upper end adapted to receive the end of a turning tool externally and internally. The lower end of the socket head is fabricated with a major recess of a generally frustroconical configuration with a second axial length. The major recess has an interior surface formed with a plurality of V-shaped projections integral with the socket and extending radially inwardly from the lower end with V-shaped valleys intermediate the V-shaped projections, thereby forming a plurality of triangles with radially interior teeth. Each of the triangles has an apex with two faces of essentially common lengths. The faces of each triangle are offset essentially equally from the radius of the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 3, 1996
    Inventors: Bill R. Horobec, Judy K. Horobec
  • Patent number: 5544747
    Abstract: A holder for supporting magnetic cylindrical tools of varying diameter such as wrench sockets, drill bits, etc. in order. A member having a series of recesses having shapes corresponding to the tools to be held is backed by an elongated magnet. In one embodiment, the .member is a non-magnetic material and the magnet is made up of a plurality of transverse magnetic regions, having alternately north and south pole regions on the surface toward the recesses, with the lines between adjacent north and south regions aligned with the centerline of the recesses and a narrow non-magnetized region separating each pair of adjacent magnetic regions. In a second embodiment, the member is formed from a magnetic a U-shaped sheet with the recesses formed in opposed sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventor: Billy L. Horn
  • Patent number: 5526929
    Abstract: A tool box includes a base, a plate and a cover which is pivotally engaged to the base, the base has four side walls and a bottom from which a plurality of studs extending therefrom, each stud having a hole defined in a top thereof, the base having two opposite side walls each having a groove defined in an inner side thereof, the plate having a plurality of recesses defined therein and having a plurality of pin elements extending downwardly from an under side thereof for engagement with the holes of the studs, the plate having an extending portion extending from a side corresponding to the groove of the base so as to be received in the corresponding groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventor: Yong L. Wei
  • Patent number: 5520285
    Abstract: A package for small parts having a first shipping and/or storage position, a second display position, and a third service position. The package has an areal support which is divided into four section by a transversely extending hinge connection and a longitudinally extending hinge connection. In the first position, the right and left portions of the package are folded over on one another to form a package enclosing the parts. In the second position the areal support is laid open in substantially the same plane where the parts are visible but cannot readily be removed from the package. In the third position, the package is folded back on itself along the longitudinal axis to provide access to the parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Inventors: Michael Mursch, Peter Knopp
  • Patent number: 5511673
    Abstract: A storage rack for mechanical drive sockets comprising a set of rods upon which the sockets are placed when not in use. The rods are affixed upon a platform in rows and correspond to the graduated sizes of the various sockets. Each rod may have a snap ring which serves to additionally secure the socket upon the rod. Further, each rod has the socket size clearly marked thereon to facilitate socket identification. A particular embodiment may store a single drive size and socket length, or may store various combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Randall W. Folk
  • Patent number: 5511662
    Abstract: A retainer for holding a plurality of tools (10), (16), (17), (18), comprising a retention layer (12) having opposed first and second sides and a planar, horizontally disposed top containing a plurality of openings (11) supported by a more rigid interlocking base layer (13). The retention layer (12) is configured for gradient depths. The base layer (13) has a diametrically configured upper surface permanently affixed to the lower portion of the retention layer (12) to provide a rigid planar base. The openings (11) are formed to accept a plurality of tool shapes particular to the individual retainer. Color contrast between the retention layer (12) and base layer (13) provides visual recognition of missing tools. The retention layer (12) has a smooth top surface to accept the permanent application of size markings (14) and other pertinent information including graphics which gives the retainer the ability to be custom designed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventors: Dennis J. Amoroso, Harold G. Amoroso
  • Patent number: 5512165
    Abstract: A personal tool box including a base frame having vertically aligned tool rest holes for resting a hand tool, two pivots vertically connected to the base frame in parallel, pairs of bit carriages and pairs of socket carriages and pairs of storage cases respectively turned about the pivots at different elevations for keeping tool bits, sockets, accessories, etc., and a clip at the back side of the base frame for hanging the personal tool box on the user's belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Inventor: Lai-Ho Liu
  • Patent number: 5501342
    Abstract: A magnetic socket track is provided which includes a non-ferrous base with concave grips the length of the outer sides. Two sections of ferrous metal with ninety (90) degree bends lie inside the channel with the protrusion of the ninety (90) degree bends facing each other. Set between the ferrous metal strips lies a length of conventional magnetic material with the north pole facing one metal strip and the south pole facing the other, yet set far enough from the ninety (90) degree bends to provide a channel. Due to the relationship of the magnetic material and the ferrous metal, a strong magnetic field is formed at the ninety (90) degree bends and right angle material. Into this channel slide the square or hexagonal heads of the threaded non-ferrous studs, with the heads of the studs large enough to prevent the studs from rotating in the channel. Numerous studs are positioned in the channel with various sizes of non-ferrous, round, internally-threaded receptacles tightened down on the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventor: Ronald J. Geibel
  • Patent number: 5499561
    Abstract: A oil filter wrench and packaging arrangement therefore are disclosed. The oil filter wrench has a cup-shaped body with a socket formed therein for receiving the top of a conventional oil filter. The interior side wall has a step therein circumscribing the socket. The oil filter wrench can be packaged between a cardboard backing and plastic cover sheet such that the cover sheet over laps the rim of the cup-shaped body. The step spaces the plastic sheet from the socket, keeping the socket area open. With this packaging arrangement the consumer can try his oil filter with the wrench without destroying the package to determine whether the wrench suits his needs before purchasing it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Assignee: FloTool International, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory F. Quinn
  • Patent number: 5495942
    Abstract: A device is described capable of selectively extending one member selected from a number of possible extending members, by a selector, full extension of the selected member being made under spring force applied by a rotating shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Allan Izhak
  • Patent number: 5484057
    Abstract: A tool packaging container including a rectangular body portion having a recess at a central portion, a flange at a bottom, and a plurality of vertical dovetail grooves at both sides, and two rectangular extension containers connected with both sides of the rectangular body portion. Each of the rectangular extension containers is one-half as long as the rectangular body portion and provided at one side with a plurality of dovetails and at another side with a plurality of dovetail retainers. The dovetails of the rectangular extension containers are adapted to engage the dovetail grooves of the rectangular body portion and are adapted to engage the dovetail retainers of another one of the rectangular extension containers. Each of the rectangular extension containers is formed with a neck at an upper portion, a pair of lugs at one end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 16, 1996
    Inventor: Lin Tzu-Ching
  • Patent number: 5477714
    Abstract: A key holder includes a keyring adapted to hold at least one preselected key, and a housing having an arcuate passage formed therein. The housing further has a notch formed in its outer periphery which is sized to receive the keyring and a first opening formed therein at one side of the notch which communicates with an end of the passage. A plunger having a flexible arm portion is disposed within the passage and movable between a position in which the flexible arm portion extends through the opening and across the notch for retaining the keyring to the housing and a position in which the flexible arm portion is withdrawn into the passage for allowing the removal of the keyring from the housing. The plunger is biased to its keyring retaining position, and the flexible arm portion is adapted to flex to conform to the shape of the passage when moving the plunger between its keyring-retaining and withdrawn positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Inventor: Thomas J. Bishop
  • Patent number: 5467874
    Abstract: A storage apparatus for tool sockets includes an elongated rack having affixed thereto a plurality of attachment mechanisms each provided with a guide channel and upstanding central cam element. A mounting member connected to each attachment mechanism includes a stub adapted to accommodate the square bore of a tool socket, with a transverse bore in the stub having a normally freely movable ball therein. Arcuate movement of the mounting member atop its attachment mechanism is limited by a tab on the mounting member disposed within the attachment mechanism guide channel. In an at rest condition, the tab is biased upwardly by a spring intermediate the attachment mechanism and mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Inventor: Eugene Whitaker
  • Patent number: 5460022
    Abstract: A device for concealing, storing and permitting ready access to and use of a handcuff key which is not readily identifiable as a key holder but is easily retrieved and utilized by law enforcement personnel. The handcuff key is camouflaged and concealed in a variety of devices, such as a ball point pen enclosure, a pocket knife holder and a rectangular case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 24, 1995
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons