Self Leveling Patents (Class 33/291)
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Patent number: 7513052Abstract: A device that generates a light line on a work surface such as a wall is disclosed. The device includes a housing containing a self-leveling pendulum assembly and a light source that directs a light beam along a pathway. A redirection assembly, also contained in the housing, is capable of altering the pathway of the light beam prior to exiting the housing. The device may further include a measuring tool responsive to rotation of the housing on the work surface. In use, the device selectively generates a light line on the work surface in a desired direction.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Black and DeckerInventors: Michael A. Milligan, Ted Andrew Kimball, Mark Slobodian, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Robert J. B. Hobden
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Patent number: 7500317Abstract: A self-leveling laser emitter (1) has a portable housing (2) in which a beam unit (5) is mounted so as to be swivelable in two dimensions in a self-leveling manner at a bearing point (4) arranged in the area of one third to two thirds of the height (H) of the housing exclusively by the downwardly directed gravitational force (G), which beam unit (5) emits two axis beams (7) in axial directions, including a plumb beam (6), and at least one first beam source is arranged in the beam unit (5) above the bearing point (4) and at least one second beam source is arranged below the bearing point (4).Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventors: Roman Steffen, Detlef Juesten
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Patent number: 7497019Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: March 3, 2009Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: Derek J. Nash, John Smith
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Patent number: 7493701Abstract: The present invention discloses a self-leveling laser apparatus, of which the pendulum can be locked, and a method for controlling the same. The self-leveling laser apparatus of the present invention comprises a housing, a pendulum hanging within the housing, at least one laser generator fixed on the pendulum, a power source electrically connected with the laser generator, and a locking device for fixing the pendulum. The locking device includes a motor, and a locking member which is activated by the motor and movable between a fixed position and a released position. The locking member has a locking surface, and the pendulum has a contacting surface. When the locking member is in the fixed position, the locking surface thereof contacts the contacting surface of the pendulum. When the locking member is in the released position, the locking surface thereof does not contact the contacting surface of the pendulum.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2007Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Chevron LimitedInventor: Ming Chen
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Patent number: 7487596Abstract: A laser reference device includes at least one planar or flat surface and an internal laser light source for generating a laser light beam. A lens inside the device may convert the laser light into a fan-shaped beam, and project the beam adjacent the planar or flat surface of the housing. The fan-shaped beam thus projects along that surface of the housing. If the laser leveling device is placed with the flat surface on a table or floor, for example, the fan-shaped beam will be in a level plane. This allows a user to place the laser leveling device on a surface and generate a laser light to align surfaces or objects, such as objects on a wall.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: February 10, 2009Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventor: Derek J. Nash
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Patent number: 7481002Abstract: A laser level includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably mounted to the housing, and a laser diode assembly disposed on the pendulum. A gimbal assembly is employed for pivotably mounting the pendulum to the housing. The gimbal assembly includes a frame connected to the housing, a first pair of bearings disposed on the frame, an axle extending through the first pair of bearings, a body disposed on the axle and pivotably supporting the pendulum, and a second pair of bearings disposed between the body and the pendulum. The first pair of bearings is disposed on one side of the second pair of bearings.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2007Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
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Patent number: 7454839Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: August 22, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: 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
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Patent number: 7444760Abstract: A marking device, in particular a hand-held marking tool for positioning markings, comprises first means (50, 52, 54, 56) which make it possible to position the device (10) in a predefinable first position of a reference surface (16), and second means (46) for leveling the device (10) relative to the reference surface (16), as well as a tracking system (13) for determining a distance covered by the device (10) relative to the first position of the device. The tracking system (13) detects the movement of the measuring instrument (10) on the reference surface (16) in two orthogonal directions (18,20).Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: November 4, 2008Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Erhard Hoffmann, Stefan Clauss, Joachim Hecht, Christian Heine, Reiner Krapf, Julian Bergmann
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Publication number: 20080235963Abstract: This invention relates to a pendulum assembly within a laser levelling apparatus. In use, the assembly is rotatably mounted with the levelling device to hang under the effect of gravity such that opposed light emitting devices produce light on a horizontal plane. The assembly includes a main body rotatably mountable in the levelling apparatus and at least two light emitting devices mounted in or on light emitting mounting portions. At least one of the light emitting mounting positions is rotatably mounted to the main body and adjustable in its orientation with respect to the main body by an threaded adjustment means. Once one light emitting device is mounted, the adjustable one can be brought into a substantially co-linear position by movement of the threaded adjustment means. A further embodiment includes a further light emitter acting on a reflective surface to provide a substantially vertical light.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Applicant: BLACK & DECKER INC.Inventor: Eric HUANG
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Patent number: 7418786Abstract: A marking device is disclosed which efficiently reduces damage affecting the gimbal mechanism even when such is used under sever conditions and is dropped from a high position. A marking device has a support mounted inside a housing, a light source unit holder swingably suspended by the support through a gimbal mechanism, and a light source unit mounted on the light source unit holder so as to diffuse a light flux only in a single direction to radiate a line of light. The support is coupled with said housing 1 through dampers with upper portion and lower portion formed of an impact absorber, and when outside impact is applied, the damper absorbs impact energy to prevent the impact force from being transmitting to the support.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Audio-TechnicaInventor: Mitsuo Miyata
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Patent number: 7392591Abstract: An assembly for generating light lines on a surface is disclosed. The assembly may include a first housing coupled to a second housing. The first housing includes the first housing may include a first light source and a second light source capable of generating intersecting light lines on the surface. The first housing, moreover, may be repositioned with respect to the second housing to reorient the light lines on the surface. The assembly may further include a pendulum assembly operable to self-level the light lines to create substantially vertical (plumb) and/or horizontal lines over a generally vertical surface such as a wall.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2006Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Black and DeckerInventors: Michael A. Milligan, Robert J. B. Hobden, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
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Publication number: 20080134527Abstract: A damping system and method for a pendulously supported crossline generator is disclosed. The crossline generator comprises a support body pendulously supported and having ear portions and a paddle. A rotation damping device having cages each with a magnet set is provided, wherein the ear portions extend into respective ones of the cages. A pitch damping device having a damping housing and a ring magnet supported in the damping housing is also provided. The paddle has a plate portion situated below the ring magnet.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2006Publication date: June 12, 2008Inventor: James Hayes
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Patent number: 7373724Abstract: A laser level includes a level-adjusting device and a laser transmitter device mounted on the level-adjusting device. The level-adjusting device includes a horizontal flat board movable by a plurality of motor modules to a desired condition, a cross rotatable circle including an outer circle rotatable about a first rotation axis and a concentric inner circle rotatable about a second rotation axis perpendicular to the first rotation axis, and a connecting post connecting the horizontal flat board to the cross rotatable circle and supporting the laser transmitter thereon.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2006Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.Inventors: Yong-ce Qi, Hua-tang Liu
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Publication number: 20080078091Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2006Publication date: April 3, 2008Inventor: Robert E. McCracken
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Patent number: 7352944Abstract: The present invention discloses a laser alignment device which has a simple structure, easy operation and economical utility, and which includes a casing, a laser emitting unit that is mounted in the casing and may emit a planar laser beam, a first mounting plane and a second mounting plane connected fixedly to the laser emitting unit, a first and a second electronic obliquity sensing units fixed on the first and the second mounting planes respectively, an automatic adjusting means, a first and a second surfaces both of which may contact with the settling surface of the laser alignment device, said first surface being connected moveably with said laser emitting unit through said automatic adjusting means, and a control circuit connected electrically with said first and second obliquity sensing units and said automatic adjusting means, at least the first one of said first and second obliquity sensing units being a double shaft obliquity sensing unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Nanjing Chervon Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Dezhong Yang
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Publication number: 20080052927Abstract: A self-leveling line generator may be removably disposable on a surface. The line generator includes a housing carrying a light source for emitting a light beam and a lens holder for carrying a lens that converts the light beam to a planar beam. The lens holder is movable with respect to the light source housing and is self-leveling so that the planar beam is in a fixed orientation on the surface on which the planar beam contacts.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventors: Thomas M. Parel, Robert E. McCracken
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Publication number: 20080052928Abstract: A self-leveling line generator may be removably disposable on a surface. The line generator includes a housing carrying a light source for emitting a light beam and a lens holder for carrying a lens that converts the light beam to a planar beam. The lens holder is movable with respect to the light source housing and is self-leveling so that the planar beam is in a fixed orientation on the surface on which the planar beam contacts.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 5, 2006Publication date: March 6, 2008Inventors: Thomas M. Parel, Robert E. McCracken
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Patent number: 7310886Abstract: A laser level includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably mounted to the housing and a laser diode assembly disposed on the pendulum. A gimbal assembly is employed for pivotably mounting the pendulum to the housing. The gimbal assembly includes a frame connected to the housing, a first pair of bearings disposed on the frame, an axle extending through the first pair of bearings, a body disposed on the axle and pivotably supporting the pendulum, and a second pair of bearings disposed between the body and the pendulum. The first pair of bearings is disposed on one side of the second pair of bearings.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
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Patent number: 7260895Abstract: A modular tool assembly including a tool base configured to releasably secure a modular tool arrangement in a fixed relationship relative to a mounting surface. The tool base includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion having a mounting seal extending therefrom. The mounting seal cooperates with the mounting surface to define a vacuum pocket therebetween. A vacuum generating mechanism is configured to remove air from the vacuum pocket through an aperture in the lower housing portion. A modular tool attachment releasably engages a portion of the tool base to secure the modular tool attachment to the tool base. The modular tool attachment can include a self leveling laser leveling device having a laser light source mounted within a housing to project an alignment beam through an opening in the housing to denote a reference plane along the mounting surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: Eastway Fair CompanyInventors: Charles Keith Long, Robert E. McCracken, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Lilia F. Macias, Mark A. Knight
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Patent number: 7228635Abstract: The present invention discloses a laser tilt apparatus and the method thereof. The present invention comprises an input device, a tilt sensor, a motor, a microcontroller unit, and at least a laser module. The input device is used to input a tilt value. The tilt sensor supplies a tilt signal to represent the levelness of the laser tilt apparatus. The motor, electrically connected to the tilt sensor, adjusts the levelness of the laser tilt apparatus. The microcontroller unit samples the tilt signal to judge the levelness of the laser tilt apparatus. When leveling, the microcontroller unit drives the motor to adjust the tilt apparatus until the tilt signal matches the tilt value. After adjusting, the power supplied to the tilt sensor and the motor is suspended. The laser module is used to transmit laser light.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.Inventors: Zhang-Yong Jian, Yue-Ye Chen, Yong-Ce Qi, Yi-Qi Li, Hua-Tang Liu, Han Lu
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Patent number: 7204027Abstract: A method and apparatus are presented for a laser tool used for direct indication of a level surface. This embodiment may also be used to transfer a level elevation from one level surface to a neighboring surface. The device may also be used to indicate the degree of flatness of a surface by direct observation. An alternative embodiment can provide a direct indication of plumb surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Robotoolz, Ltd.Inventor: Christopher A. Tacklind
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Patent number: 7191532Abstract: A modular tool assembly including a tool base configured to releasably secure a modular tool arrangement in a fixed relationship relative to a mounting surface. The tool base includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion having a mounting seal extending therefrom. The mounting seal cooperates with the mounting surface to define a vacuum pocket therebetween. A vacuum generating mechanism is configured to remove air from the vacuum pocket through an aperture in the lower housing portion. A modular tool attachment releasably engages a portion of the tool base to secure the modular tool attachment to the tool base.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: Eastway Fair Company LimitedInventors: Charles Keith Long, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Skye V. Taylor
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Patent number: 7174648Abstract: A modular tool assembly including a tool base configured to releasably secure a modular tool arrangement in a fixed relationship relative to a mounting surface. The tool base includes an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion having a mounting seal extending therefrom. The mounting seal cooperates with the mounting surface to define a vacuum pocket therebetween. A vacuum generating mechanism is configured to remove air from the vacuum pocket through an aperture in the lower housing portion. A modular tool attachment releasably engages a portion of the tool base to secure the modular tool attachment to the tool base. The modular tool attachment can include a self leveling laser leveling device having a laser light source mounted within a housing to project an alignment beam through an opening in the housing to denote a reference plane along the mounting surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Eastway Fair CompanyInventors: Charles Keith Long, Robert E. McCracken, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Lilia F. Macias, Mark A. Knight
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Patent number: 7155835Abstract: A self-leveling laser alignment tool and method thereof which provides a laser beam in a substantially truly level or plumb orientation are disclosed. Magnetic attraction is used to compensate for leveling errors of an approximately or partially leveled pendulum platform that is suspended from a flexible support member having a predetermined material stiffness. The material stiffness of the suspension member is compensated by using magnets which pulls the pendulum platform into an orientation that is substantially truly level and plumb.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Jim Hayes, Robin McCarty
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Patent number: 7134211Abstract: A laser level includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably mounted to the housing and a laser diode assembly disposed on the pendulum. A gimbal assembly is employed for pivotably mounting the pendulum to the housing. The gimbal assembly includes a frame connected to the housing, a first pair of bearings disposed on the frame, an axle extending through the first pair of bearings, a body disposed on the axle and pivotably supporting the pendulum, and a second pair of bearings disposed between the body and the pendulum. The first pair of bearings is disposed on one side of the second pair of bearings.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
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Patent number: 7134212Abstract: A laser level disposable on a reference surface includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably connected to the housing, a first laser diode disposed on the pendulum for emitting a first laser beam along a first path, a first lens disposed on the pendulum in the first path for converting the first laser beam into a first planar beam, the first planar beam forming a first line on the reference surface, a second laser diode disposed on the pendulum for emitting a second laser beam along a second path, and a second lens disposed on the pendulum in the second path for converting the second laser beam into a second planar beam, the second planar beam forming a second line on the reference surface, wherein the first and second lines are substantially perpendicular and non-intersecting.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2006Date of Patent: November 14, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
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Patent number: 7111406Abstract: A laser calibration device includes a housing and a pendulum pivotally coupled to the housing and suspending downwards therefrom. A laser deck is mounted to the pendulum. At least one laser for emitting a laser line is mounted to the laser deck. The laser includes a laser barrel rotatable within a barrel holder and a laser lens pivotally coupled to the laser barrel. A first adjustment mechanism is mounted between the laser deck and the laser for adjusting pitch. A second adjustment mechanism is mounted between the barrel holder and the laser barrel for adjusting roll. A third adjustment mechanism is mounted between the laser barrel and the laser lens for adjusting crowning. A fourth adjustment mechanism mounted to the pendulum for adjusting a center of gravity of the pendulum.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: September 26, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Oleksiy P Sergyeyenko, James D Marshall, Robert D Watters, Marcus W Bosch, Rod Muir
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Patent number: 7076880Abstract: A two wire laser control circuit for a laser leveler includes a switch mounted on a housing and having an electrical current passing therethrough. The switch has a first position and a second position. A diode bridge is mounted on a pendulum. A plurality of laser diodes are mounted on the pendulum and are electrically coupled to the diode bridge. A first wire extends from the switch to the diode bridge. A second wire extends from the switch to the diode bridge. Current from the switch passes through the first wire to the diode bridge and to one of the plurality of laser diodes when the switch is in the first position. Current from the switch passes through the second wire through the diode bridge and to all of the plurality of laser diodes when the switch is in the second position.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Oleksiy P Sergyeyenko, David M Shaver, James D Marshall
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Patent number: 7059057Abstract: A laser level disposable on a reference surface includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably connected to the housing, a first laser diode disposed on the pendulum for emitting a first laser beam along a first path, and a lens disposed on the pendulum in the first path for converting the first laser beam into a first planar beam, the first planar beam forming a line on the reference surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2003Date of Patent: June 13, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James R. Raskin, Jeffrey A. Cooper, James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Thomas J. Wheeler
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Patent number: 7032318Abstract: A self-leveling laser alignment tool and method thereof which provides a laser beam in a substantially truly level or plumb orientation are disclosed. Magnetic attraction is used to compensate for leveling errors of an approximately or partially leveled pendulum platform that is suspended from a flexible support member having a predetermined material stiffness. The material stiffness of the suspension member is compensated by using magnets which pulls the pendulum platform into an orientation that is substantially truly level and plumb.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Jim Hayes, Robin McCarty
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Patent number: 7031367Abstract: A laser level disposable on a reference surface includes a housing, a pendulum pivotably connected to the housing, a first laser diode disposed on the pendulum for emitting a first laser beam along a first path, a first lens disposed on the pendulum in the first path for converting the first laser beam into a first planar beam, the first planar beam forming a first line on the reference surface, a second laser diode disposed on the pendulum for emitting a second laser beam along a second path, and a second lens disposed on the pendulum in the second path for converting the second laser beam into a second planar beam, the second planar beam forming a second line on the reference surface, wherein the first and second lines are substantially perpendicular and non-intersecting.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
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Patent number: 7027480Abstract: A laser level disposable on a reference surface includes a housing, a laser diode disposed within the housing for emitting a laser beam along a path, a lens disposed in the path for converting the laser beam into a planar beam. The planar beam thus forms a line on the reference surface. The laser level also includes an electronic distance measurement circuit disposed within the housing for measuring distance. The distance measurement circuit including a display for showing the measured distance.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2003Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Colin M. Dyke
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Patent number: 6988319Abstract: A signal sampling circuit of a tilt sensor, suitable to be used in a tilt sensor, is described. The signal sampling circuit has a signal-generating module, a sample and hold module, and a differential module. The signal-generating module regularly generates a plurality of level-measuring signals at equally timed intervals and unidirectionally and alternately sends them to the first input pin and the second input pin of the tilt sensor, respectively. Then, the tilt sensor sequentially outputs the corresponding first and second output signals. The sample and hold module alternately samples and holds the first and the second output signals and outputs the first and the second sampling signals, respectively. The differential module receives and differentiates the first and the second sampling signals and outputs a level-estimating-result signal to a micro-controller unit to derive the tilt information of one direction.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.Inventor: Chih-Wei Hung
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Patent number: 6964106Abstract: An improved laser level has a housing and a first shaft connected to the housing. Two bearings are disposed on the first shaft. A gimbal body is disposed on the two bearings. A second shaft is connected to the gimbal body. A third bearing is disposed on the second shaft. A pendulum is disposed on the third bearing. A laser diode is disposed on the pendulum.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 15, 2005Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, James D. Marshall, David M. Shaver, Stefano F. DeCecco
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Patent number: 6922063Abstract: A capacitive sensor including a pendulum for electronically determining an indication of angular offset and a capacitive leveling device having such a capacitive sensor for leveling an associated reference surface. The capacitive sensor detects a difference in capacitance of one or more capacitors on the pendulum and its housing, each capacitor having a first electrode movable apart from a second electrode as the housing tilts relative to the pendulum.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: July 26, 2005Assignee: Zircon CorporationInventor: Charles E. Heger
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Patent number: 6898017Abstract: A line producing system includes an input beam of radiant energy that enters a side of a low cost, radiant energy altering device. The radiant energy emerges from the light altering device radiating in a nearly 360 degree disc pattern forming a ring of ever expanding light.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2004Date of Patent: May 24, 2005Inventor: Richard F. Bergen
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Patent number: 6871408Abstract: A self-contained laser generator uses a laser diode and a mirror to generate a laser light beam, split it into two parts, and generate perpendicular beams of laser light. One of more mirrors are useful for receiving light and splitting it into two beams. An internal motor then rotates the mirrors and one of the beams becomes a rotating laser light, useful for aligning objects in a horizontal or vertical direction. The other beam may be used to locate and orient the rotating laser line generator in a different plane.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: Fabrice J. Malard, John H. Loudenslager, Albert Gamal
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Patent number: 6842291Abstract: A line producing system includes an input beam of radiant energy that enters a side of a low cost, radiant energy altering device. The radiant energy emerges from the light altering device radiating in a nearly 360 degree disc pattern forming a ring of ever expanding light.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2004Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Inventor: Richard F. Bergen
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Patent number: 6829834Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Assignee: Zircon CorporationInventor: Norman Krantz
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Patent number: 6782034Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 6, 2002Date of Patent: August 24, 2004Inventor: Chuying Li
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Patent number: 6763595Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus and a method for projecting an indication of alignment. The invention features forming a first output beam, and a second output beam that is substantially perpendicular to the first output beam. The first output beam indicates level, the second output beam indicates plumb, and the first and second output beams together indicate square. An error indicator indicates an error in the accuracy of the first and second output beams as indicators of level and plumb respectively. The error indicator can be deactivated, such that the first and second output beams together can be used at least to indicate square.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Assignee: PLS - Pacific Laser SystemsInventor: William Hersey
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Patent number: 6754969Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: September 12, 2002Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventor: Reinhard Waibel
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Patent number: 6688011Abstract: A modular laser level determination system includes a laser beam generator in a housing, fixed to a positioner. The laser beam is oriented towards a central shaft inside the housing that is not closed off by any obstacles and passes through a collimator. A rotation drive module of an optical assembly comprises at least one reflection plane. The rotation drive module extends in a direction coaxial with the center line of the laser beam. The rotation drive module comprises a brushless motor with electronic switching, a hollow shaft, and a stator fixed to an element fixed in rotation. The stator can be tilted by a module for determination and adjustment of the inclination with respect to a reference place. The laser beam generator is fixed to the brushless motor.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Assignee: AgatecInventors: Albert Gamal, Mircea Chiorean, Didier Persin, Roland Franclet
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Patent number: 6675489Abstract: The present invention provides a laser sighting device, which comprises a tilt detecting device having a liquid member for forming a free liquid surface and a fixed reflection member fixedly mounted, the tilt detecting device being used for detecting angular deviation between the free liquid surface and the fixed reflection member, a main unit for accommodating the tilt detecting device, and a laser beam irradiation unit removably mounted on the main unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2002Date of Patent: January 13, 2004Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCONInventors: Fumio Ohtomo, Jun-ichi Kodaira
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Patent number: 6625895Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 4, 2001Date of Patent: September 30, 2003Assignee: Toolz, Ltd.Inventors: Christopher A. Tacklind, Zinovy Dolgonosov
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Patent number: 6604291Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 9, 2001Date of Patent: August 12, 2003Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventors: Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske, Erwin Bünter
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Patent number: 6573981Abstract: An electronic level for converting a pattern on a leveling rod to be collimated by photoelectric conversion and for determining difference of elevation, wherein there is provided an irradiation device for irradiating auxiliary survey light to be projected to the leveling rod by pulsed irradiation.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2000Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCONInventors: Kaoru Kumagai, Fumio Ohtomo
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Patent number: 6546636Abstract: The improved laser line beam emitting apparatus provides reduction in the cost and a number of the parts, simplicity of the adjustment, and allows for drawing of a straight line in the range of the wide angle. It comprises a single laser beam source unit in which a cylindrical rod lens with semitransparent and complete transparent faces produces reflectively and refractively passing laser beam therefrom. The reflected and refracted laser beams diffuse in the first direction and the second direction opposite from the first direction, respectively. The diffused laser beams draw a horizontal or vertical laser line surrounding the apparatus (a straight line passing objectives ahead of, behind and opposite sides of the apparatus or passing objectives above and below the apparatus).Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 15, 2003Assignee: Kabaushiki Kaisha Audio-TechnicaInventor: Akihito Tamamura
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Laser line beam emitting apparatus having functions of laser marking or plumb instrument, or leveler
Patent number: 6536122Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 25, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Audio-TechnicaInventor: Akihito Tamamura -
Patent number: 6493952Abstract: A measuring device (6) subjected to gravitational forces and including at least one laterally oscillating, pendulously suspended, support structure (7) for supporting at least one of a measuring element, and optical element, and a suspension element for suspending the support structure and including at least one hinge formed as a tape hinge (21; 40).Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1999Date of Patent: December 17, 2002Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventors: Heinz Kousek, Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske