Having Gravity Responsive Indicating Means (e.g., Pendulum, Etc.) Patents (Class 33/283)
  • Patent number: 11635344
    Abstract: A portable optic metrology thermal chamber module including a housing defining a thermal chamber, with a thermally isolated environment arranged for holding an optic device under test, the housing having an optic stimulus entry aperture configured for entry of a stimulus beam, from a metrology system stimulus source through the entry aperture onto an entry pupil of the device to an image analyzer, and a module mount coupling to modularly mount the portable optic metrology thermal chamber module to a support of a metrology system of the metrology system stimulus source so as to removably couple the portable optic metrology thermal chamber module as a unit to the support in a predetermined position relative to the metrology system stimulus source, and the housing is sized and shaped so that the portable optic metrology thermal chamber module is portable as a unit for moving to and removing from the predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2020
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Assignee: Optikos Corporation
    Inventor: David Imrie
  • Patent number: 11484761
    Abstract: A portable magnification angle adjuster for golf putting is proposed. More particularly, in the portable magnification angle adjuster for golf putting, the decrease of the beauty and portability of the magnification angle adjuster due to the protruding of the knob from the casing during the rotation of a knob for the rectilinear movement of a rotation weight is prevented, and the range of the engagement of threads formed to move the rotation weight is limited such that the moving distance of the rotation weight is limited. To this end, the portable magnification angle adjuster includes: a casing; an indication hand; a knob; and a dial; and a rotation weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Hyun Duk Uhm
  • Patent number: 11471744
    Abstract: A method for calculating distance information according to the present invention includes: acquiring a current location; reading out map information of a golf course corresponding to the current location; calculating a horizontal distance to a target of the golf course from the current location by using the map information; calculating two first direction intersection where a straight line in a first direction, connecting the current location and the target, and a green boundary line of the golf course meet; calculating two second direction intersection where a straight line, which is perpendicular to the first direction and passes through the target, and the green boundary line meet; and calculating edge distances between the target and the two first direction intersection and between the target and the two second direction intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2022
    Assignee: VC INC.
    Inventors: Juno Kim, Hakyong Lee, Hohyeong Lee
  • Patent number: 11320264
    Abstract: A plumb-bob device has an enclosure with three lasers projecting from one end, one of which projects a horizontal lane, one in a vertical plane, and one with crossed planes from a laser that is suspended to swing but not rotate about an axis. The device may be attached to an object to be leveled or plumbed, and moving the object until the lasers coincide accomplishes plumbing the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2022
    Inventor: Joeseph Samuel Melton
  • Patent number: 10982958
    Abstract: A laser generating device including a housing and a laser module assembly. The laser module assembly is at least partially housed in the housing. The laser module includes a pendulum assembly which rotates under the effects of gravity and a laser module on the pendulum assembly. The laser module includes a laser generator which generates a laser beam. The laser generating device also includes a pendulum lock which is movable from an unlocked position to a locked position. When the pendulum lock is in the locked position, it prevents the pendulum assembly from rotating. A sensor is provided to detect a freefall condition. The pendulum lock moves from the unlocked position to the locked position when the sensor detects the freefall condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Stanley Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Keith M. Lombardi, Ido Aharon Stern, Bruce Eidinger, Gilad Moisa
  • Patent number: 10322779
    Abstract: The objective of the invention is to improve the durability and reduce the weight of a device for measuring the difference between the drafts on the two sides of ship, by making it possible to prevent the occurrence of bubbles in a measuring liquid and prevent leakage of the measuring liquid. In order to measure the difference between the drafts on the two sides of a ship, a measuring device (1) is provided with: two liquid level measuring tubes (11) attached respectively to the port and starboard sides of the ship; a communicating hose (41) which causes the two liquid level measuring tubes (11) to communicate with one another; and a drum (51) to which a central portion of the communicating hose (41) is secured, and onto which a left hose section (41a) and a right hose section (41b) are wound simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2019
    Inventor: Kouichiro Mitsuru
  • Patent number: 10293236
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a direction indication device for golf putting. The device includes a scale plate, a left and right slope angle indication needle, an indication needle rotation means, a vertical slope angle scale means, and a lid provided over the scale plate. The indication needle rotation means includes a first rotation cam including a wedge pin closely coupled vertically to an elongated hole formed on one end of the left and right slope angle indication needle and maintained vertically in a direction of the central axis of the earth. The indication needle rotation means also includes an angle adjustment bar rotatably connected with the first rotation cam such that the first rotation cam is rotated from side to side and moves back and forth. Additionally, the indication needle rotation means includes a first supporting rod to support the angle adjustment bar and installed on the scale plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignees: KAISHOT CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hyun Duk Uhm
  • Patent number: 9668552
    Abstract: One embodiment of an inclinometer is disclosed comprising lines on a sticker applied to a ski pole shaft. Each line represents a unique slope angle, and may be identified by a number to indicate the slope angle, such that the lines can be used to visually identify slope angle when the ski pole shaft is held vertically. Slope angle measurements can be taken by sighting a side profile of the slope, or by sighting up or down the slope, or by direct contact measurement with the slope. Other embodiments are described and shown, including one with lines printed directly onto a ski pole shaft, and one that's applied to the cylindrical surface of a water bottle rather than to that of a ski pole shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: Grayson Carey King
  • Patent number: 9562766
    Abstract: A laser beam generating device is provided for generating multiple mutually orthogonal light beams. The device includes a laser light generator that generates at least three output beams. A beamsplitter of the laser light generator has two incident surfaces orientated at forty-five degrees in relation to an optical axis. A first portion of a light from a light source is incident on a first of the two incident surfaces and output as a first output beam in a first direction orthogonal to the optical axis. A second portion of the light is incident on a second of the two incident surfaces and output as a second output beam in a second direction opposite the first direction. The light source is arranged in relation to the beamsplitter such that a third portion of the light bypasses the beamsplitter and forms a third output beam projected parallel to the optical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2017
    Assignee: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, Kun Chang, Jia Yong Jiang
  • Patent number: 8711369
    Abstract: The invention relates to a laser receiver for detecting a relative position of a defined zero point of said laser receiver with respect to a reference laser beam. Therefore, the laser receiver comprises a laser light photo sensor having a plurality of photo sensitive elements providing an electrical output when illuminated by said reference laser beam, a circuitry connected to said photo sensor for determination of said relative position and a visible readout for indication of said relative position, in particular for indicating if said zero point is on-grade with respect to said reference laser beam. According to the invention, at least a first laser fan emitter, with a laser light source and at least one fan-generating optical element, is provided for projecting a visible laser line onto a target surface, particularly in order to re-project a sharp marking-line through the vertical center of the reference laser beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Leica Geosystems AG
    Inventor: Clayton Eugene Campagna
  • Patent number: 8640350
    Abstract: An improved laser line generating device is provided for use in construction layout tasks. The laser line generating device is comprised of a first laser light generator operable to emit from a housing a first plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the first plane of light perpendicular to a horizontal plane; and a second laser light generator operable to emit from the housing a second plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the second plane of light perpendicular to the first plane of light and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, such that the first plane of light intersects with the second plane of light at two points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Black & Decker, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, Jia Yong Jiang, Xiang Wang, Sheng Tao Xie, Wei Hua Si, Daniel K. Hardy
  • Patent number: 8397392
    Abstract: The invention relates to a marking and/or leveling device (1) comprising a light source (4) disposed on a pendulum (3) that can pivot relative to a housing (2). According to the invention, means are provided for accelerating (9) the pendulum (3) and/or a pendulum bearing (8) in a pulsing manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Rudolf Fuchs
  • Patent number: 8307562
    Abstract: An improved laser line generating device is provided for use in construction layout tasks. The laser line generating device is comprised of a first laser light generator operable to emit from a housing a first plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the first plane of light perpendicular to a horizontal plane; and a second laser light generator operable to emit from the housing a second plane of light having a fan angle greater than 180° and arranged in the housing to project the second plane of light perpendicular to the first plane of light and perpendicular to the horizontal plane, such that the first plane of light intersects with the second plane of light at two points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, Jiang Jia Yong, Wang Xiang, Xie Sheng Tao, Si Wei Hua, Daniel Hardy, Hongbo Yu
  • Patent number: 7913404
    Abstract: An alignment tool and method is disclosed for use in aligning wheels of trucks and truck trailers. The tool includes at least one self-leveling laser for checking wheel alignment. The self-leveling laser includes a body, an attachment member and a laser. The attachment member secures the alignment tool to the vehicle or trailer and the alignment tool provides for self-leveling to enable a user to make various predetermined measurements from the laser marking “+” when aligning the wheels of the vehicle or trailer. The alignment tool also may include a fifth wheel adapter for attaching the alignment tool to a fifth wheel pin of a truck trailer when checking the alignment of a truck trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Dennis K. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110030230
    Abstract: The invention relates to a marking and/or leveling device (1) comprising a light source (4) disposed on a pendulum (3) that can pivot relative to a housing (2). According to the invention, means are provided for accelerating (9) the pendulum (3) and/or a pendulum bearing (8) in a pulsing manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2008
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventor: Rudolf Fuchs
  • Patent number: 7874077
    Abstract: The device (12) comprises a laser (14) which is attached to the tool (2). During operation a laser beam (16) is emitted onto an optical lens (20) which is of cylindrical shape. The lens (20) is suspended to swivel freely, e. g. by means of a swivel arm (24) which is operatively connected to the tool (2). Thus, the main axis (28) of the lens (20) is kept vertically by the gravity force when the tool (2) is moved or tilted. The shape of the laser marker (I1 II, III) generated on a workpiece (8) is an indication for the user of the tool (2) concerning an inclination (x, y) of the tool (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Positec Power Tools (Suzhou) Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Gianni Borinato
  • Patent number: 7665218
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the azimuth of a tube having a bore axis includes a centering mandrel having a longitudinal axis; a flexible member for defining a bore axis projection of the bore axis; a tensioner fixed to one end of the flexible member, and a pair of adjusters connected to the tensioner, the adjusters for moving the tensioner along a respective pair of axes that are perpendicular to the bore axis projection, the axes of the adjusters being mutually perpendicular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventor: Robert P. Pinto
  • Patent number: 7591075
    Abstract: A level, particularly a laser level is provided with a chassis simultaneously pivotable in at least a first direction and a second direction under the influence of gravity and a housing surrounding at least a portion of the chassis. The chassis carries a first light source for emitting a first light beam from the housing along a first plane and a second light for emitting a second light beam from the housing along a second plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Techtronic Power Tools Technology Limited
    Inventor: Robert E. McCracken
  • Patent number: 7497019
    Abstract: A chassis can be electro-mechanically rotated about an axis. The chassis contains a laser module and an inclination sensor. A laser beam and/or a laser line or plane can be emitted from chassis using a lens or reflector to focus the light in the desired beam or plane shape. The inclinometer/accelerometer senses the spatial orientation of the chassis and a microprocessor drives a motor through a motor control to adjust the angular orientation of the chassis. Preset angular orientations may be programmed into microprocessor that define predetermined angular orientations of the chassis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Derek J. Nash, John Smith
  • Patent number: 7454839
    Abstract: A laser unit for providing at least one of a laser level line and a laser plumb line, where the unit includes both a locked mode and an unlocked (or auto-leveling) mode. In the unlocked mode, the laser unit is configured to provide at least one of a level line or a plumb line when the pendulum assembly is free to settle to a point of equilibrium. In the locked mode, a pendulum locking mechanism locks the laser assembly into a fixed position regardless of the orientation of the laser unit. Optionally, an attachment accessory may also be provided. The attachment accessory preferably includes a ball and socket joint attachment assembly that is configured for attaching the laser unit to the attachment accessory such that the laser unit can be rotated or tilted with respect to the attachment accessory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Robotoolz, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mark Alan Della Bona, Sabrina Hofmann, Zhi Qing Jiang, Verena Kehrer, Mark Kam Ming, Stefan Reichl, Andreas Roessner, Lam Yat Wah, Tang Chia Weng, Jiqiang Yang
  • Publication number: 20080047153
    Abstract: A laser unit for providing at least one of a laser level line and a laser plumb line, where the unit includes both a locked mode and an unlocked (or auto-leveling) mode. In the unlocked mode, the laser unit is configured to provide at least one of a level line or a plumb line when the pendulum assembly is free to settle to a point of equilibrium. In the locked mode, a pendulum locking mechanism locks the laser assembly into a fixed position regardless of the orientation of the laser unit. Optionally, an attachment accessory may also be provided. The attachment accessory preferably includes a ball and socket joint attachment assembly that is configured for attaching the laser unit to the attachment accessory such that the laser unit can be rotated or tilted with respect to the attachment accessory.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Publication date: February 28, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Alan Della Bona, Sabrina Hofmann, Zhi Qing Jiang, Verena Kehrer, Mark Kam Ming, Stefan Reichl, Andreas Roessner, Lam Yat Wah, Tang Chia Weng, Jiqiang Yang
  • Patent number: 7266897
    Abstract: A self aligning baseline instrument including a first light assembly operable to generate a first vertical light plane, a second light assembly operable to generate a second vertical light plane at a predetermined angle to the first vertical light plane, a third light assembly operable to generate a first horizontal light plane that is perpendicular to the first and second vertical light planes, and a fourth light assembly operable to generate a vertical plumb light beam that defines a reference point on an underlying surface, the vertical light beam parallel to and coincident to the center axis of the instrument. The first and second vertical light planes and fourth plumb laser beam all intersect together through the center axis of the instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: Laserline Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Treichler, Robert J. Blick, Robert W. Vanneman
  • Patent number: 6996910
    Abstract: A laser leveling device includes a laser instrument having a base rotatably received in a cavity of a housing and having a light emitting device to generate a light beam, such as a line-shaped light beam. One or more batteries may be used to energize the light emitting device. The light beam generated by the light emitting device may be rotated relative to the housing when the light emitting device of the laser instrument is rotated relative to the housing. The housing includes two conductors, and the laser instrument includes two terminals to electrically couple to the conductors of the housing when the laser instrument is rotated relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Ying Chou Liao
  • Patent number: 6931739
    Abstract: A laser indicator includes a weight mechanism having a bracket with a weight secured to the bracket in a manner where the weight is suspended by gravity. A plurality of laser generators are arranged about the weight, including a horizontal beam generator, a center laser generator arranged at the axial center of the bottom of the weight for emitting a laser point coaxial to the axial line of the weight, and a plurality of vertical beam generators positioned in spaced-apart manner around the axial center of the weight at the top of the weight. The laser indicator can include a stand that includes a seat having a plurality of legs, and a rotary table having a plurality of legs, with the weight mechanism coupled to the rotary table, and the rotary table removably coupled to the seat so that altitude of the weight mechanism can be adjusted. In addition, the laser indicator can include a securing mechanism for coupling the weight to the upper bracket of the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2005
    Assignee: Quarton, Inc.
    Inventors: Shih-Chang Chang, Sheng-Ching Wu
  • Patent number: 6829834
    Abstract: A self-leveling tool for projecting a line of light along a wall or other vertical surface at one of a plurality of predetermined angles. The tool self-aligns to emit a plane of light at one of the predetermined angles (e.g., 0, 90, 180 or 270 degrees), thereby projecting a line on the wall in a desired direction (e.g., right, up, left or down).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Zircon Corporation
    Inventor: Norman Krantz
  • Patent number: 6810595
    Abstract: A laser angle guide assembly has a stand and a laser guide. The laser guide is rotatably attached to the stand and has a laser pointer, a transparent column, a guiding rod, an index stick and a protractor. The laser pointer has a head for emitting a laser. The transparent column is attached to the laser pointer to transfer the laser to an index line with an inclination. The guiding bar is attached to the laser pointer. The index stick is attached to the guiding bar and has an index section with an inclination parallel to the inclination of the index line. The protractor with graduations is rotatably attached to the index stick and corresponds to the index section. Accordingly, the laser pointer will generate an index line to provide a guide to the doctor to insert the needle into the patient body at a desired angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Inventor: Wing-Sheung Chan
  • Patent number: 6792685
    Abstract: A laser plumb includes a laser, and a mass that is rotatable about a spin axis to stabilize the laser. The mass is mounted to a support to be pivotable about at least one axis, and preferably two axes. The two axes are perpendicular to each other and the spin axis. The laser is mounted to the mass to maintain its orientation relative to the support, as the mass rotates about the spin axis. A weight below the tilt axes aligns the spin axis with the gravitational axis. Preferably, the mass and laser are mounted to the support by a gimballed mount. The plumb optionally includes markings on its base to measure a deflection of the laser from the support, thereby allowing measurement of the angle of inclination of a surface supporting the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: National University of Singapore
    Inventors: Tuck Wah Ng, Hiang How Caleb Heng
  • Patent number: 6782034
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a laser-plumbing leveler with adjustable height of the horizontal line, which comprises a laser emitting device, a laser line (plane) projecting optical system, and a laser line (plane) rotating and/or moving unit, wherein the laser line (plane) projecting optical system comprises a horizontal laser unit, a vertical laser unit and/or inclined laser unit and so forth. The laser-plumbing leveler according to the invention can be used in building decoration or the like for positioning at different height in horizontal, vertical and inclined directions, and has the advantages of easy use, reliable leveling, simple construction and low price.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Inventor: Chuying Li
  • Patent number: 6754969
    Abstract: A constructional laser including a self-leveling optical system located in the laser housing (2) and generating a visible plumb light beam (5a) and/or visible horizontal light beam (5b), and a stand (7) fixedly secured to the housing (2) for mounting the housing on a bearing support (6), with the stand (7) being continuously pivotable about a pivot axis (A) transverse to the light beam (5a, 5b) in an angular region (↑) of greater than (20°) and discretely pivotable in angular steps encompassing the self-leveling region (a) and locable in its pivotal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Reinhard Waibel
  • Patent number: 6742269
    Abstract: A laser verticality/horizon indicator for construction is provided that realizes irradiation of laser beam, and indication of both a vertical point and a horizontal line using optical refraction. The laser verticality/horizon indicator embodies a scientific and systematic use mechanism through electrically controlled operation of equipment to indicate vertical and horizontal positions as a precise measurement, and to enhance the handling efficiency of the equipment. The laser verticality/horizon indicator includes a mounting board having a driving motor, a rotary bulb, a prism mounted in the rotary bulb, a battery receiving bulb used as a power supply, and a laser inducing hole. The laser verticality/horizon indicator further includes a laser generator separately mounted on the mounting board, and a plumb bob forming a body structure of the verticality/horizon indicator, the mounting board and the laser generator being installed in the plumb bob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventors: Byoung Chul Kim, Sang-hwa Lee, Vitali Khulugurov, Nikolay Ivanov
  • Patent number: 6694630
    Abstract: A multiple axis laser emitter (1) comprising an optical beam splitter (4) having at least two reflectively coated mirror surfaces (7a, 7b, 7c, 7d) oriented perpendicular to each other and each oriented at an angle of 45° to a collimated main beam (H) of a laser light source (6) and at an angle of 90° to each other, wherein, in the beam path, an optical wedge (8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e) is arranged downstream to at least one of the component beams (Ta, Tb, Tc, Td) deflected by the mirror surfaces (7) at an angle of 90° to the main beam (H).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Lieu-Kim Dang, Erwin Bünter, Karsten Brandenburg
  • Patent number: 6688009
    Abstract: A laser survey instrument, comprising a laser projector for projecting a laser beam onto a plane by rotary irradiation, a tilting unit for tilting the laser projector in two directions running perpendicularly each other and a tilt setting unit for setting a desired tilt angle for the laser projector at least in one direction, wherein the tilt setting unit comprises a tilt sensor for detecting a horizontal position and an angle detector for detecting an angle between the tilt sensor and the laser projector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Topcon
    Inventors: Yasuhito Haijima, Takaaki Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6651355
    Abstract: A device for determining the range/height of distant objects using the triangulation method. The device includes a palm-sized housing having merely four main components; (1) a retractable tape measure; (2) a sighting slot; (3) a pendulum and (4) a calibrated graph. A reel is disposed on the rear wall of the housing to provide means for retracting the tape measure. The calibrated graph is imprinted on the face of a thin sheet, which sheet is attached to the front wall of the housing. A transparent cover is disposed to protect the face of the sheet. An offset portion on the sheet functions to prevent the pendulum from swinging freely when the device is not in use. The sighting slot is positioned at the top of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Inventor: William H. Byrd
  • Patent number: 6640453
    Abstract: The current invention discloses an improved clinometer which can be used as an inexpensive form of builder's level or transit due to its capability of orienting itself to a predetermined vertical angle, and maintaining said angle through the use of gravity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Wayne Eisenmenger
  • Patent number: 6625895
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for leveling at least one output light beam in a construction tool. One embodiment of the apparatus includes a laser optical assembly for producing output light beams that define plumb, level, and right angle beams for use in construction applications. The optical assembly is mounted on an optical platform which permits tilting about “slip-stick” joints that define two perpendicular axes of rotation. Such joints allow the optical platform to change its angle of tilt in response to an applied torque and to maintain the changed angle of tilt until further torque is applied. Also, the “slip-stick” mechanism prevents substantial movement or oscillation of the optical platform in the absence of the applied torque. The embodiment further includes a sensor element for determining whether the output beams are level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Toolz, Ltd.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Tacklind, Zinovy Dolgonosov
  • Publication number: 20030154610
    Abstract: The current invention discloses an improved clinometer which can be used as an inexpensive form of builder's level or transit due to its capability of orienting itself to a predetermined vertical angle, and maintaining said angle through the use of gravity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Wayne Eisenmenger
  • Patent number: 6604291
    Abstract: A self-leveling device having a modular unitary suspension (1) for a measurement system carrier (2) of a tiltable housing (3), with the carrier oscillating freely in at least one direction, and the device being distinguished by a flexible connector assembly (5) formed of rubber-like elastic material and situated between two mounting structures (4). The connector assembly is designed as a compact structural component and forms a rotationally symmetrical flexural moment at least in one axial mid region of flexure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2003
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske, Erwin Bünter
  • Patent number: 6568094
    Abstract: A compact optical calibrating apparatus includes: a housing having a base formed on a bottom of the housing, a horizontality calibrator universally pendulously mounted in the housing, a plurality of illuminators embedded or secured in a plumb pendulously secured to the horizontality calibrator, and a switch device pivotally secured in the housing for switching on or off a power source supplied to the illuminators and for braking or releasing the pendulous movement of the plumb; whereby upon embedding of the illuminators in the plumb, the height and volume of the calibrating apparatus is decreased for obtaining a compact optical calibrating instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2003
    Inventor: Chyi-Yiing Wu
  • Patent number: 6536122
    Abstract: There is provided a laser line beam emitting apparatus with high durability. The apparatus according to the present invention has avoidance of deformed or damaged shafts by construction where possible free maintenance of the balance of the pendulum being locked against the swings prevents production of applied unnatural force to the shaft. It includes a pendulum 60 having a laser beam source unit assembled thereinto, gimbals mechanism having the pendulum 60 hung therefrom, a stopper 70 having a function of stop of swings of the pendulum 60, and a pressure member 75 to press the pendulum against the stopper for stop of swings of the pendulum 60. The gimbals mechanism comprises a plurality of links 53, 55, 57, which are linked in series through combination of a plurality of horizontal shafts 52, 54 disposed in a parallel arrangement with each other and a plurality of horizontal shaft 56, 58, which is at the right angle to the horizontal shafts 52, 54.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Audio-Technica
    Inventor: Akihito Tamamura
  • Publication number: 20020184774
    Abstract: Disclosed is a laser verticality/horizon indicator for construction. An object of the present invention is to provide a laser verticality/horizon indicator for construction that realizes irradiation of laser beam and indication of both a vertical point and a horizontal line using optical refraction, thereby achieving general use purposes and enhancing the working efficiency. Another object of the present invention is to provide a laser verticality/horizon indicator for construction that embodies a scientific and systematic use mechanism through electrically controlled operation of equipment to indicate vertical and horizontal positions as a precise measurement and to enhance the handling efficiency of the equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventors: Byoung Chul Kim, Sang-hwa Lee, Vitali Khulugurov, Nikolay Ivanov
  • Publication number: 20020184773
    Abstract: There is provided a laser line beam emitting apparatus with high durability. The apparatus according to the present invention has avoidance of deformed or damaged shafts by construction where possible free maintenance of the balance of the pendulum being locked against the swings prevents production of applied unnatural force to the shaft. It includes a pendulum 60 having a laser beam source unit assembled thereinto, gimbals mechanism having the pendulum 60 hung therefrom, a stopper 70 having a function of stop of swings of the pendulum 60, and a pressure member 75 to press the pendulum against the stopper for stop of swings of the pendulum 60. The gimbals mechanism comprises a plurality of links 53, 55, 57, which are linked in series through combination of a plurality of horizontal shafts 52, 54 disposed in a parallel arrangement with each other and a plurality of horizontal shaft 56, 58, which is at the right angle to the horizontal shafts 52, 54.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Akihito Tamamura
  • Publication number: 20020108261
    Abstract: A self-aligning plumb apparatus has an elongated housing with a laser beam module in the housing. The end of the housing is pointed and is magnetized for suspending the apparatus from metallic beams and the like. The switch is mounted on the housing in a position where it is activated by a slidable plumb bob weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen Miller
  • Publication number: 20020083603
    Abstract: An infrared pointer holder includes a stand for mounting, the stand having an upright post terminating in a ball socket, a ball rotated in the ball socket, the ball having a protruded connecting rod, lock means adapted to lock the ball in the ball socket of the stand in the desired angle, a holder base fixedly connected to the connecting rod of the ball, the holder base having a revolving shaft extended in direction perpendicular to the connecting rod of the ball, a DC motor controlled to rotate the revolving shaft, and a coupler coupled to the revolving shaft of the holder base and holding an infrared pointer for measuring the direction and distance of a target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: Jong Shuenn Jang
  • Publication number: 20020053144
    Abstract: A laser plumbing device including a laser beam emitting device; a supporting device for supporting the laser beam emitting device and allowing swinging movements of the laser beam emitting device in a first direction X1 and a second direction Y1; a two-direction drive device for swinging the laser beam emitting device in the first and second directions X1 and Y1; an inclination angle detecting device for detecting an inclination angle of the laser beam emitting direction with respect to the vertical direction; and a controller for controlling the position of the laser beam emitting device by the two-direction drive device so as to change the laser beam emitting direction toward the vertical direction based on the angle detected by the inclination angle detecting device. The long member plumbing device and method utilizing the laser plumbing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 1999
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventors: YUUJI MATSUMOTO, TATSUSEI MINAMI, OSAMU YODA, AKIRA TANABE
  • Publication number: 20020043000
    Abstract: A self-leveling device having a modular unitary suspension (1) for a measurement system carrier (2) of a tiltable housing (3), with the carrier oscillating freely in at least one direction, and the device being distinguished by a flexible connector assembly (5) formed of rubber-like elastic material and situated between two mounting assemblies (4). The connector assembly is designed as a compact structural component and forms a rotationally symmetrical flexural moment at least in one axial region of flexure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventors: Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske, Erwin Bunter
  • Publication number: 20010025425
    Abstract: A laser survey instrument, comprising a laser projector for projecting a laser beam onto a plane by rotary irradiation, a tilting unit for tilting the laser projector in two directions running perpendicularly each other and a tilt setting unit for setting a desired tilt angle for the laser projector at least in one direction, wherein the tilt setting unit comprises a tilt sensor for detecting a horizontal position and an angle detector for detecting an angle between the tilt sensor and the laser projector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Publication date: October 4, 2001
    Inventors: Yasuhito Haijima, Takaaki Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 6101728
    Abstract: A plumb system for construction projects having a laser module embedded within includes a spring or the like device acting as a connecting device to a tripod or the like apparatus for projecting a vertical laser beam to a vertical end point, from the floor to a certain top point. Conversely, a spring or the like device mounted to the opposite end of the laser module of the plumb can be mounted to a certain high point for projecting a top to bottom laser beam for determining an end point at the floor. An optional horizontal base designed to horizontally receive the plumb for projecting a horizontal laser beam. A horizontal level indicator mounted onto the horizontal base can ensure a true horizontal plane. An optional self standing horizontal block can be used to determine the intermediate points of the horizontal laser beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: Hai Lin Keng
  • Patent number: 6035540
    Abstract: An automatic optical levelling, plumbing and verticality-determining appartus includes: a base, a supporting and driving means adjustably standing on the base for supporting a frame having a plumb device secured to a horizontality calibrator universally pendulously mounted on the frame, a pair of plumb-line illuminators respectively secured on a top and a bottom portion of the plumb device for emitting an upper and a lower optical beam towards a ceiling and a ground floor for calibrating a vertical plumb line, a horizontal-line illuminator and a vertical-line illuminator symmetrically disposed on opposite ends of a T-shaped adapter mounted on a top of the plumb device and the horizontality calibrator for respectively emitting a horizontal optical line and a vertical optical line for determining or calibrating a horizontal plane and a vertical plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventors: Chyi-Yiing Wu, Lin Chin Hsiung
  • Patent number: 5992029
    Abstract: A laser line device suitable for construction. The laser line instrument automatically aligns a vertical laser beam so that the beam is perpendicular to the earth's core. The laser module is connected to a pendulum which serves to automatically level the device. The pendulum is damped by permanent magnets. The bearing on which the pendulum is mounted serves as a portion of the electrical circuit of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Dawei Dong
  • Patent number: 5839199
    Abstract: A laser gradient setting device, having such arrangement that a reference laser beam with a gradient emitted and a reference laser beam in vertical direction is emitted, whereby the laser gradient setting device can be easily positioned by the reference laser beam in vertical direction by a single worker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 24, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCON
    Inventor: Yohei Ogawa