Alignment Device Patents (Class 33/286)
  • Patent number: 8756822
    Abstract: Systems and methods for sailboat mast alignment are provided. In some embodiments, a system for alignment of a sailboat mast comprises a mounting bracket configured for attachment to the mast, and one or more lasers pivotally connected to the mounting bracket to enable the one or more lasers to be positioned at an index angle relative to the mast on both sides of the mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Inventors: Robert A. Rabiner, Daniel E. Rabiner, Raoul I. Rabiner
  • Patent number: 8752302
    Abstract: An apparatus for processing, in particular coating, workpieces which preferably consist at least in certain portions of wood, wood-based materials, plastic or the like, having a radiation device for generating and/or transmitting radiation, preferably a laser beam, and a spindle unit with a shaft (4) rotatable in a shaft bearing section (4a) and a holder (5) for accommodating processing tools and/or processing units, characterized in that the shaft (4) and/or a unit (10) attached to the shaft has at least in certain portions a cavity (4b, 9a, 2b) and the radiation device is arranged in such a manner that the radiation runs at least in certain portions inside the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Homag Holzbearbeitungssysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Johannes Schmid, Axel Petrak
  • Patent number: 8745884
    Abstract: Systems, methods, and other embodiments associated with three-dimensional laser position systems are described. In one embodiment, a system includes first and second vertical laser plane transmitters and a horizontal laser plane transmitter. The first and second vertical laser plane transmitters are configured to emit first and second vertical laser planes, respectively, that are each rotatable about rotational axes. The horizontal laser plane transmitter has a fixed position relative to the rotational axis of the second vertical laser plane transmitter and emits a horizontal laser plane that is rotatable to position the horizontal laser plane at a pitch angle. The system is configured to translate between a three dimensional coordinate and positions of the first and second vertical laser transmitters and the horizontal laser transmitter, respectively, that will cause the first and second vertical laser planes and the horizontal laser plane to intersect at a the three dimensional coordinate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventor: James N. Hayes
  • Patent number: 8726531
    Abstract: The invention pertains to the alignment of chucks used in the web handling industry. The device includes specialized mounting features to align a light beam with a given chuck. Two of these assemblies are positioned such that each light beam aligns with the other. In this orientation the two chucks are aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventors: Robert Clemans, Bruce Isley, Michael Payton, Peter Ackerman, Eric Koppes
  • Publication number: 20140115907
    Abstract: A laser alignment device for use with rigid tubing of varying diameters, such as electrical conduit or plumbing piping. An embodiment of the laser alignment device includes a slide mechanism with a number of measurement indicator markings on at least one face. The slide mechanism allows the laser position to be adjusted depending on the diameter of the tubing. The primary function of the alignment device is to produce a laser beam at or near the dead-center of the tubing as it is being installed. This allows the installer to quickly ensure that existing or new sections of tubing are installed correctly and in-line. A plurality of mirror attachments may be used to alter the direction of the laser beam for turns or bends in the run of the length of tubing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Inventor: Daniel F. Gamon
  • Patent number: 8712721
    Abstract: Methods and devices for use in surveying operations are provided. A device is provided for selectively connecting to surveying equipment, such as a surveying pole, and is adapted for accurately adjusting a reference point in at least two axes. The device is adapted to work in conjunction with additional surveying equipment, such as theodolites and transits as well as one or more central processing units for analyzing, storing, and providing data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Inventors: Shayne Hamel, Todd Liebbe
  • Patent number: 8690125
    Abstract: The laser equipped lift pad device provides for exact lift pad placement below an automobile. The device's embedded lasers shine directly upwardly toward a given work surface, an auto. By projecting laser light upwardly, a technician need only view the laser lighted surface or object of the auto and locate the devices one time, then lift the auto without repeated bended, kneeling, and inspection. The device ensures worker safety with exact locating capability, as incorrect lift point engagements and possible auto shift or fall is negated. The device thereby also ensures against auto damage which can be caused by engaging improper lift points of the auto. In negating repeated kneeling and bending, the laser equipped lift pad device also saves labor time and prevents laborer injury. The device easily replaces existing lift pads via either the pair of mount holes or the mount shaft, depending upon the given lift.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Inventor: Thomas S. Brake
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20130340267
    Abstract: A device for positioning an object such as a framed wall plumb or perpendicular relative to a support surface therefor. The device features first and second elongated members which are rotationally engaged. With a first end of the second elongated member engaged to the vertically disposed object, and the distal end of the first elongated member positioned upon the support surface, a tilting of the wall is accomplished by pressure applied to a handle portion of the second elongated member. The tilting causes movement of a projected light beam from a position at the first end of the second elongated member. Continued tilting allows a user to align an illumination point of the light beam, with a mark on the support surface, and ascertain the object is plumb relative to the support surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventor: Eduardo Carbajal
  • Publication number: 20130326890
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a shaft alignment tool including a center hub and a plurality of adjustable arms. The plurality of adjustable arms are coupled to the center hub and include a proximal end section and a distal end section. The shaft alignment tool further includes one or more roller assemblies mounted on each distal end section of each adjustable arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: Sean J. Alexander, Ronald K. Johnston
  • Publication number: 20130326892
    Abstract: A construction surveying device having a base, an upper part mounted on the base and can be rotated about an axis of rotation, a sighting unit having a laser source which is designed to emit a laser beam and a laser light detector, and an evaluation and control unit, a first rotary drive and a second rotary drive enable the upper part and the sighting unit to be driven and aligned, a spatial alignment of the sighting unit with respect to the base can be detected using two goniometers, and coordinates for space points can be determined using the evaluation and control unit, the construction surveying device has a horizontal line projection functionality which, at least sometimes, takes place automatically after triggering and is intended to measure and mark space points along a horizontal line, running in a horizontal plane, on an arbitrarily shaped surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
    Inventor: Christian SCHORR
  • Publication number: 20130326891
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a shaft alignment tool including a base, a rotational body mounted on the base for relative rotation with respect to the base, and an alignment meter coupled to the rotational body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventors: Sean J. Alexander, Ronald K. Johnston
  • Publication number: 20130326893
    Abstract: The telescopic sight alignment tool is used to align the horizontal and vertical axes of the scope with corresponding axes of the firearm upon which the scope is mounted. The tool comprises a unitary structure having a plate with a vertical crosshair alignment slit, with an ocular seat extending forward from the lower portion of the plate. Upper and lower alignment indicators extend from the plate. Alternative embodiments provide variations upon the alignment indicators. The tool is placed upon the ocular of the scope and secured adjustably thereon with an elastic band. The tool is rotated to align the slit precisely with the vertical crosshair of the scope. The scope is then rotated in its mounts until at least one of the indicators of the tool is aligned with an element of the firearm, e.g., front sight, tang of the action, etc., and the mounts tightened to secure the scope.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Inventor: Gerald Lee Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8595946
    Abstract: A two-dimension layout system identifies points and their coordinates, and transfers identified points on a solid surface to other surfaces in a vertical direction. Two leveling laser light transmitters are used with a remote unit to control certain functions. The laser transmitters rotate about the azimuth, and emit vertical (plumb) laser planes. After being set up using benchmark points, the projected lines of the laser planes will intersect on the floor of a jobsite at any point of interest in a virtual floor plan, under control of a user with the remote unit. The laser light planes also project lines that will intersect along the ceiling at a point that is truly plumb above the crossing point on the floor. The laser planes also provide an “implied” plumb line that is projected in space, which is visible along a solid vertical surface between the intersecting floor and ceiling points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: James N. Hayes, Chris W. Snyder
  • Publication number: 20130298413
    Abstract: A construction laser system comprising at least one rotation laser which has a laser unit and a rotatable deflection means, a laser receiver has a laser beam detector which is designed to generate an output signal when the laser beam impinges on the laser beam detector. An evaluation unit for determining the position of the laser receiver relative to the reference surface and an indicator for the determined position. A controller where a known emission pattern is generated over a sequence of a plurality of revolutions by varying the emission of the laser beam in a manner temporally coupled to the revolution period of the deflection means, and the evaluation unit is designed to identify the reference surface using a sequence of output signals which are each generated by the laser beam detector when the rotating laser beam repeatedly successively impinges, which sequence corresponds to the known emission pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
    Inventors: Anton Kehl, Bernd Stöckel, Martin Winistörfer
  • Patent number: 8578621
    Abstract: A laser alignment system for a drill press includes first and second adjustable laser assemblies mountable on the drill press. Each adjustable laser assembly includes a base firmly affixed to the drill press, a rotatable element mounted on the base and being adapted to selectively rotate relative to the base, a pivotable element mounted on the rotatable element and being adapted to selectively pivot relative to the rotatable element, and a laser mounted on the pivotable element and being adapted to move simultaneously with the pivotable element. The laser alignment system includes a pivot adjusting mechanism coupled with the pivotable element for selectively pivoting the pivotable element relative to the rotatable element, and a rotation adjusting mechanism coupled with the rotatable element for selectively rotating the rotatable element relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Chang Type Industrial Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Sarah Jane Montplaisir, David Andrew Goldman
  • Patent number: 8567077
    Abstract: A system and processes for aligning an antenna boresight from a position which is internal to a structure on which the antenna is mounted is described. The system includes a laser tracking system and a plurality of targets disposed on a surface of the antenna.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Michael C. Wernig, David J. Irwin, Carol Acoraci
  • Patent number: 8567047
    Abstract: A machine for installing electrical box, wiring, and receptacles or switch simultaneously and a process that allows electricians to perform all 3 tasks at one time without the need to return to install receptacles or switch after wallboard is installed comprises: Housing with built-in laser guide and attached magnetic spacers for metal studs or wooden studs that allow for correct alignment of receptacle or switch for applicable wallboard thickness used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventor: Frank Anthony DiLorenzo
  • Patent number: 8567078
    Abstract: A laser instrument is disclosed. The laser instrument having a laser unit, a drive device for tilting the laser unit, and a damper device between the drive device and the laser unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Barth Stefan, Manfred Ammann
  • Publication number: 20130269194
    Abstract: An alignment head system (1, 31) for taking alignment data with respect to a pair of shafts (4, 5) coupled to each other by means of a coupling (6) comprises a data acquisition device (11) configured to wirelessly receive data, and alignment heads (2, 3). Each alignment head (2, 3) is configured to take alignment data with respect to the shafts (4, 5), to wirelessly send the alignment data to the data acquisition device (11), and to forward alignment data received from the other alignment head (2, 3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: AKTIEBOLAGET SKF
    Inventor: Mark David Sansom
  • Publication number: 20130263459
    Abstract: Systems and methods for sailboat mast alignment are provided. In some embodiments, a system for alignment of a sailboat mast comprises a mounting bracket configured for attachment to the mast, and one or more lasers pivotally connected to the mounting bracket to enable the one or more lasers to be positioned at an index angle relative to the mast on both sides of the mast.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 10, 2013
    Inventors: Robert A. Rabiner, Daniel E. Rabiner, Raoul I. Rabiner
  • Publication number: 20130174432
    Abstract: An attachment device 46 is for attaching and removing a distance measuring instrument 3 to and from an angle measuring instrument, and the attachment device comprises a base unit 61 where the distance measuring instrument is fixed, a fixing unit 55 for fixing the base unit on the angle measuring instrument, and an optical member 52 for deflecting a distance measuring light from the distance measuring instrument so as to concur with a sighting optical axis of the angle measuring instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOPCON
    Inventor: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOPCON
  • Publication number: 20130167385
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control method for producing ground markings, with a reference beam generator for determining a reference plane, a reception of the reference beams by means of an optical detector, wherein the position of an application unit for the marking substance can be derived relative to the reference plane by using the received reference beams, a derivation of the orientation relative to the reference plane, and a control of an application of the marking substance to produce ground markings according to the orientation. According to the method, the intensity in the solid angle covered by the reference beam is varied in time during the production of the marking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: July 4, 2013
    Applicant: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
    Inventor: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AG
  • Publication number: 20130160310
    Abstract: A laser system for creating a linear laser marking, including a radiation source that emits a laser beam and that emits it along a direction of propagation, a focusing lens assembly with an optical axis, and a conical mirror that, at least in certain areas, is configured as a straight cone with a cone axis and a reflecting lateral surface. The conical mirror is arranged in the beam path of the laser beam behind the focusing lens assembly, and the cone axis is oriented parallel to the optical axis of the focusing lens assembly. The direction of propagation of the laser beam is inclined at an angle relative to the optical axis of the focusing lens assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
  • Publication number: 20130160309
    Abstract: A system and method for measuring a pipe is provided. The system includes a frame rotatably receiving the pipe, a carriage movably positionable along the frame, a guide floatingly positionable about the carriage, at least one sensor for measuring a position of the pipe, and a measurement unit operatively linked to the sensor for collecting measurements therefrom. The guide has a mouth that receivingly engages the pipe and axially aligns therewith. The pipe is measured with the sensor(s) while moving at least one of the pipe, the carriage and the guide.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO, L.P.
    Inventor: National Oilwell Varco, L.P.
  • Publication number: 20130152411
    Abstract: Reference bores are selected in blade extender and one or more reference plates are provided at a height (h1; h2) from extender flange. A reference laser device is provided within reference bores which beam impinging on reference plates is in line with bore axis. A blade root bore is selected and a laser device is fitted therein such that a measuring laser beam impinging on plates is in line with axis of blade root bore. The measuring laser beam can be then assessed. A measuring tool is used having a first end to which laser devices can be attached or other devices such as a comparator, and a movable second end for being inserted within the corresponding bores with a tight fit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Applicant: ALSTOM WIND, S.L.U.
    Inventor: Horacio Bulacio Bossio
  • Publication number: 20130152410
    Abstract: A hoist alignment apparatus and a method for aligning a hoist lift arm with a particular area on a frame are provided. The apparatus comprises a base defining a plane and a light operable to emit a light beam along an axis substantially orthogonal to the plane of the base, the light being held by a light holder attached to the base. The light may be replaced by an extendable rod. The hoist lift arm may be aligned by placing the apparatus on the arm and moving the arm until the light beam shines on the particular area or the tip of the extended rod points directly to the particular area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventor: KIM A. LeBLANC
  • Publication number: 20130145635
    Abstract: The provided writer guide facilitates the operator in creating a craft project or scrap book page with the desired aesthetic effect. The writer guide emits a laser beam guide line across a medium in a position desirable to the operator. The operator may utilize the guide line for activities that may include but are not limited to writing, printing, scripting, placing, designing, creating, and positioning of components to achieve an aesthetically pleasing product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Inventor: Brent Dallman
  • Publication number: 20130097880
    Abstract: A system and processes for aligning an antenna boresight from a position which is internal to a structure on which the antenna is mounted is described. The system includes a laser tracking system and a plurality of targets disposed on a surface of the antenna.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Publication date: April 25, 2013
    Applicant: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Michael C. Wernig, David J. Irwin, Carol Acoraci
  • Patent number: 8424648
    Abstract: A tool for use in a lubrication system having an oil-containing sump for supplying lubricating oil to a mechanical device and an oiler device connected to the sump for delivering a supply of oil to the sump, the oiler device comprising a base for supporting an oil reservoir and an adjustable element movably disposed within the base for predetermining a level of oil to be maintained within the sump. The tool has a first portion configured to extend into the base for engagement with the adjustable element and a second portion disposed exteriorly of the base to visually indicate the disposition of the adjustable element relative to the oil-containing sump, preferably in the form of a pointing device, optimally a laser beam generating instrument, for representing the disposition of the adjustable element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Trico Corporation
    Inventors: Jay Wilson, Lewis Beck
  • Patent number: 8418374
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning a rail in a computer server rack has a laser transmitter for generating a laser dot. The apparatus has a prism for converting the laser dot into a laser line. The apparatus has a laser lens for projecting the laser line. The apparatus has an elongated bar for positioning the apparatus on a rack post, such that the laser line is projected perpendicular to the rack post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Wen Chen, ZhenDe Fu, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Lei Li, Yu Yu
  • Patent number: 8416411
    Abstract: Pulley alignment apparatus for aligning pulleys when the operating position of a variable sheave pulley of a pulley system has changed is provided. The pulley alignment apparatus has an adjustable laser light unit that can be adjusted to compensate for the resulting displacement of the centerline of the variable sheave pulley when the operating position is changed. The pulley alignment apparatus also has a set of gauges for determining the operating position of a variable sheave pulley and determining if a belt is adequate for the variable sheave pulley at the operating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Inventor: Pius Ileogben
  • Publication number: 20130074350
    Abstract: A method for helping to position a component on the wall of a structural element, including the steps: elaborating an image to be projected on the wall, from a virtual model of the structure and from the positioning of a projector with respect to the structure, and an additional motif providing positioning information of the piece with respect to the direction normal to the wall, projecting the image on the structural element by means of the projector; placing the base of the piece inside an outline of the image projected on the wall; and, while keeping contact between the piece and the structural element, modifying the positioning of the piece with respect to the direction normal to the wall, until the predefined set of points of the piece coincides with the motif.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventors: Erwan Le Mer, Yves Fretigny, Eric Le Scolan
  • Publication number: 20130074352
    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: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventor: Black & Decker Inc.
  • Publication number: 20130074351
    Abstract: A firearm laser sight alignment assembly includes a laser module for emitting a beam along an optical axis, the laser module having an outer seat. The alignment assembly encompasses a resilient grommet mechanically engaging the outer seat in a first adhesive free interference fit. The grommet includes an external seat sized to form adhesive free interferences fits with a laser cover and the housing, as the laser cover engages the housing to retain the grommet with respect to the housing and the laser cover. Upon operable assembly, the interference fits substantially preclude axial and longitudinal movement between the grommet and the laser module as well as the grommet and the laser cover and housing, while allowing angular movement of the laser module to a desired alignment position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: LASERMAX, INC.
    Inventors: John Kowalczyk, Jeffrey Tuller, Jeffrey Mock
  • Publication number: 20130074348
    Abstract: The invention provides a device and a method for relative positioning of an appliance having a shaft end in relation to fastening elements which are arranged at a distance to the longitudinal axis of the shaft end and at a distance in front of the end of the shaft end and is disposed for generation of a first and a second light fan which extend symmetrically along the longitudinal axis of the shaft end and form light lines extending over the end of the shaft end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Sven Hunze
  • Publication number: 20130036598
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for installing an elevator in an elevator shaft, having the following steps: i) arranging a model in the elevator shaft, so that the arranged model represents nominal dimensions of an outline of the elevator; ii) arranging at least one light source at a nominal position of the model, so that the light source is directed in a provided travel direction of the elevator; iii) projecting a light beam starting from the light source, wherein the light beam defines the nominal position along the provided travel direction in the elevator shaft; and iv) using information about at least one location of at least one projection point of the light beam in the elevator shaft for installing the elevator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: INVENTIO AG
    Inventor: Stefano Menchini
  • Patent number: 8365422
    Abstract: The problems of hitching are typically focused on the alignment of the mating components. As a result, assist products tend to offer fragmented solutions and lack universal appeal in the marketplace. The Tru-Hitchin Model using Dual Beam Technology and Triangulation develops a Spatial Triangle with the aid of hardware, as a framework for positioning and alignment of any mating components. The Model transforms two dimensional vehicle movements into a 3rd dimensional beam movement for operator viewing. The operation requires a one-time initialization after which all future hitching is performed safely by one operator with ordinary parking skills. Alignment is complete when the dual functional laser beams are on selected pivot points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Charles Lawrence Ott
  • Patent number: 8336217
    Abstract: A node placement apparatus, system and method employ an optical source to define a grid for placement of nodes. The node placement apparatus includes a structure that provides a predetermined height and the optical source positioned at the predetermined height. The optical source is configured to produce an optical beam having a predetermined declination angle. The optical beam is configured to provide illumination of a plurality of discrete points on a surface to define the grid. The system further includes the nodes. The method of node placement includes locating the optical source above a fixed point on and at the predetermined height above the surface, illuminating the plurality of discrete points with the optical beam, and positioning a node at a selected discrete point of the plurality of discrete points illuminated by the optical beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Wei Yi, John Paul Strachan
  • Publication number: 20120317824
    Abstract: A square includes a laser indicator and comprises a two-part body with a channel running between them defining a pair of perpendicular arms. The channel holds a cavity for a battery or other portable power source as part of an electrical circuit. One or both arms may include a scale as well as an elongate opening on the top of the arm for a handle to move a laser/indicator back and forth along the opening. The arms preferably include a pair of bus bars to conduct electricity from the power source to the laser. The second arm may also include a laser light source that is capable of moving in a direction parallel to the arm, as well as rotating in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Applicant: KELLYCRAFT INNOVATIONS LLC
    Inventor: James H. Kelly
  • Publication number: 20120313337
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and method of for adjusting the toe angle in the wheels of a solid non-steering axle and especially to a method and apparatus for bending a vehicle's solid or non-steering axle housing, such as the solid rear axle of a vehicle or an axle of a semi-trailer, to align the toe angle of the wheels mounted on the solid axle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventors: Scott S. Porta, Michael C. Loescher
  • Publication number: 20120311878
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning a rail in a computer server rack has a laser transmitter for generating a laser dot. The apparatus has a prism for converting the laser dot into a laser line. The apparatus has a laser lens for projecting the laser line. The apparatus has an elongated bar for positioning the apparatus on a rack post, such that the laser line is projected perpendicular to the rack post.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Wen Chen, ZhenDe Fu, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Lei Li, Yu Yu
  • Publication number: 20120297635
    Abstract: A pipe alignment tool includes a main body, a laser source, and a laser calibrator. The main body has a threaded external surface on a proximal end and a cylindrical bore at a distal end. The cylindrical bore has a central axis. The laser source has a proximal end that is removably received in the cylindrical bore. The laser source is configured to discharge a laser beam through a distal end of the laser source along a laser axis. The laser calibrator is configured to adjust the orientation of the laser source relative to the central axis to coaxially align the laser axis with the central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Jason Mickow
  • Publication number: 20120297636
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention include levels, level assemblies and/or apparatus for leveling. Certain embodiments of the present invention are advantageous for the adjustment and leveling of cutting instruments, such as the blades of a mower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: November 29, 2012
    Inventor: Rex Harvey Floyd
  • 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: 8302319
    Abstract: An apparatus for aligning a rail in a computer server rack has a laser transmitter for generating a laser dot. The apparatus has a prism for converting the laser dot into a laser line. The apparatus has a laser lens for projecting the laser line. The apparatus has an elongated bar for positioning the apparatus on a rack post, such that the laser line is projected perpendicular to the rack post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Wen Chen, ZhenDe Fu, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Lei Li, Yu Yu
  • Patent number: 8291607
    Abstract: A system for positioning an object includes a base and a platform for detachably retaining the object. A first linear actuator is pivotably coupled to a first pivot axis of the platform and a first pivot axis of the base. A second and a third linear actuator are pivotably coupled to a second pivot axis of the base and the first pivot axis of the platform. A fourth linear actuator is pivotably coupled to the second pivot axis of the base and a second pivot axis of the platform. The first, second, third and fourth linear actuators being selectably adjustable in length to position the platform at a select position about a predetermined arc of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Philip A. Hill
  • Patent number: 8281495
    Abstract: A two-dimension layout system identifies points and their coordinates, and transfers identified points on a solid surface to other surfaces in a vertical direction. Two leveling laser light transmitters are used with a remote unit to control certain functions. The laser transmitters rotate about the azimuth, and emit vertical (plumb) laser planes. After being set up using benchmark points, the projected lines of the laser planes will intersect on the floor of a jobsite at any point of interest in a virtual floor plan, under control of a user with the remote unit. The laser light planes also project lines that will intersect along the ceiling at a point that is truly plumb above the crossing point on the floor. The laser planes also provide an “implied” plumb line that is projected in space, which is visible along a solid vertical surface to between the intersecting floor and ceiling points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: James N. Hayes, Chris W. Snyder
  • Patent number: 8266807
    Abstract: The present invention relates to measuring apparatus for pulling a measurement from an underlying base structure. In one aspect, the present invention is a measuring apparatus having a rigid body and means for coupling the body to an underlying base structure. The rigid body includes a first laser and is adapted to receive a portion of a tape measure therein. The means for coupling the rigid body to the underlying base structure can be one or more conventional fasteners, such as, but not limited to, a bar clamp, suction cups, screws, bolts, nails, pins, hooks, hook and loop fastener, snaps, clips, brackets, and/or sleeves. Generally, the first laser is oriented such that light emitted from the laser is projected about 90 degrees from the face of the underlying structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Auburn University
    Inventor: Darren Olsen
  • Patent number: 8261457
    Abstract: A CNC lathe jaw alignment system in which the position of the work holding edge of a chuck jaw is accurately located with respect to a work holding tool block mounted on a CNC lathe turret. A laser alignment tool is provided which includes a housing containing a light emitting laser module powered by a battery and an on/off switch. This laser module is used to project a laser beam onto the mounting face of a CNC lathe chuck to form a red target dot at the diameter of the workpiece. The laser alignment tool allows the lathe operator to visually see the workpiece diameter on the chuck as a red target dot generated by the laser module. This red target dot allows the operator to substantially expedite the process of accurately attaching jaws to a CNC lathe chuck in preparation for machining processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley Dean Peters