Self Leveling Patents (Class 33/291)
  • 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: 7493701
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Chevron Limited
    Inventor: Ming Chen
  • Patent number: 7487596
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventor: Derek J. Nash
  • Patent number: 7481002
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2009
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7444760
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Erhard Hoffmann, Stefan Clauss, Joachim Hecht, Christian Heine, Reiner Krapf, Julian Bergmann
  • Publication number: 20080235963
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Applicant: BLACK & DECKER INC.
    Inventor: Eric HUANG
  • Patent number: 7418786
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Audio-Technica
    Inventor: Mitsuo Miyata
  • Patent number: 7392591
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Black and Decker
    Inventors: Michael A. Milligan, Robert J. B. Hobden, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
  • Publication number: 20080134527
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: James Hayes
  • Patent number: 7373724
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Yong-ce Qi, Hua-tang Liu
  • Publication number: 20080078091
    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: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventor: Robert E. McCracken
  • Patent number: 7352944
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Nanjing Chervon Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dezhong Yang
  • Publication number: 20080052927
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas M. Parel, Robert E. McCracken
  • Publication number: 20080052928
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2006
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventors: Thomas M. Parel, Robert E. McCracken
  • Patent number: 7310886
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
  • Patent number: 7260895
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2007
    Assignee: Eastway Fair Company
    Inventors: Charles Keith Long, Robert E. McCracken, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Lilia F. Macias, Mark A. Knight
  • Patent number: 7228635
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Zhang-Yong Jian, Yue-Ye Chen, Yong-Ce Qi, Yi-Qi Li, Hua-Tang Liu, Han Lu
  • Patent number: 7204027
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Robotoolz, Ltd.
    Inventor: Christopher A. Tacklind
  • Patent number: 7191532
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Eastway Fair Company Limited
    Inventors: Charles Keith Long, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Skye V. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7174648
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Eastway Fair Company
    Inventors: Charles Keith Long, Robert E. McCracken, Kevin A. Moore, Charles M. Wacker, Lilia F. Macias, Mark A. Knight
  • Patent number: 7155835
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Jim Hayes, Robin McCarty
  • Patent number: 7134212
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
  • Patent number: 7134211
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Bascom, John K. Horky, John McKibben, Daniel N. Lopano, Geoffrey S. Howard, Michael A. Nelson, John C. Wenig
  • Patent number: 7111406
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Oleksiy P Sergyeyenko, James D Marshall, Robert D Watters, Marcus W Bosch, Rod Muir
  • Patent number: 7076880
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Oleksiy P Sergyeyenko, David M Shaver, James D Marshall
  • Patent number: 7059057
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James R. Raskin, Jeffrey A. Cooper, James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Thomas J. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 7032318
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Trimble Navigation Limited
    Inventors: Jim Hayes, Robin McCarty
  • Patent number: 7031367
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
  • Patent number: 7027480
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James D. Marshall, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, Colin M. Dyke
  • Patent number: 6988319
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Asia Optical Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Chih-Wei Hung
  • Patent number: 6964106
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko, James D. Marshall, David M. Shaver, Stefano F. DeCecco
  • Patent number: 6922063
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Zircon Corporation
    Inventor: Charles E. Heger
  • Patent number: 6898017
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Inventor: Richard F. Bergen
  • Patent number: 6871408
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Fabrice J. Malard, John H. Loudenslager, Albert Gamal
  • Patent number: 6842291
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Inventor: Richard F. Bergen
  • 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: 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: 6763595
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: PLS - Pacific Laser Systems
    Inventor: William Hersey
  • 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: 6688011
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Agatec
    Inventors: Albert Gamal, Mircea Chiorean, Didier Persin, Roland Franclet
  • Patent number: 6675489
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCON
    Inventors: Fumio Ohtomo, Jun-ichi Kodaira
  • 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
  • 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: 6573981
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCON
    Inventors: Kaoru Kumagai, Fumio Ohtomo
  • Patent number: 6546636
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Kabaushiki Kaisha Audio-Technica
    Inventor: Akihito Tamamura
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6493952
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Heinz Kousek, Reinhard Waibel, Wilfried Piske
  • Patent number: 6314650
    Abstract: A laser system comprising a laser transmitter and a laser receiver is operable to adjust the laser beam or the laser plane generated by the laser transmitter in response to one or more inputs by a user of the system. The system is operable in one or more modes, such that communication from the laser receiver to the laser transmitter results in various adjustments to the laser beam or tilt or slope of the plane generated by the beam. The present invention is preferably operable to automatically account for any drift in the system, or to adjust the slope of the plane generated by the transmitter in response to a detected location of the laser receiver. Additionally, the laser transmitter may be operable to automatically oscillate the beam in a given area in response to detection of the laser receiver in that area. Each of these modes may be actuated via a simple user input at the laser receiver and/or the laser transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Laser Alignment, Inc.
    Inventor: David M. Falb
  • Patent number: 6314651
    Abstract: The system according to the present invention comprises means for irradiating a plurality of laser beams by separating the laser beams in a vertical direction and means for forming a plurality of laser beam reference planes by rotary irradiation of said plurality of laser beams. Because a plurality of reference planes are formed at the same time, operation can be carried out at the same time at different working sites, and the tilt reference line as desired can be promptly obtained without performing tilt setting operation for the reference plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha TOPCON
    Inventors: Fumio Ohtomo, Kunihiro Hayashi