Combined Patents (Class 33/354)
  • Patent number: 7165339
    Abstract: A measuring apparatus comprises a handle 22 having a tape-holder 26? and pendulum 24 attached thereto such that a measuring tape 30 can extend to a variable extent sideways out of the tape-holder with the pendulum hanging vertically downwards. In the preferred embodiment there are two tape holders 26?, 26? which are rotatable on the handle about the axis of the pendulum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventors: Andrew Webb, Michael Meagor
  • Patent number: 7113451
    Abstract: The multi-function watch (1) includes a magnetic sensor assembly associated with its electronic circuits. The hands (7 to 9) of its display are activated by electric motors to indicate the time in a time mode and directions in a compass mode. In order to indicate simultaneously the direction of north and another pre-selected direction, particularly a heading to be followed, in a clear manner avoiding any risk of confusion between these two directions, the direction of north (N) is shown in real time by the hour (7) and minute (8) hands, aligned opposite each other to form one long hand like that of a conventional compass, whereas the direction (C) corresponding to the heading to be followed is simultaneously shown by the second hand (9), forming the desired angle (A) with the two aligned hands. In compass mode, the heading value is visible on a digital display (13), which has other functions in other modes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse
    Inventor: Gérald Matthey
  • Patent number: 7013570
    Abstract: A stud finder for a light generating device, having a surface and a connection structure on the surface to removably mount either a light generating device or a leveling device thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Irwin-Industrial tool Company
    Inventors: Steven R. Levine, Leslie D. Gist
  • Patent number: 6951059
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a magnetic shield included in a compass-based indicator tool. The indicator tool utilizes a compass to indicate a device setting of an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device may include a target that creates an internal magnetic field for the compass to interact with. External magnetic fields, specifically earth's magnetic field, may interfere with the compass and create an incorrect device setting indication. The magnetic shield blocks the external magnetic fields from influencing the accuracy of the device setting measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ari Moskowitz, Marc Stepkowski
  • Patent number: 6950685
    Abstract: There is disclosed an electronic instrument intended to be worn on a user's wrist, such as a wristwatch (1), including a case (2) and a wristband (2a) secured to the case. The case encloses an electronic module (6), a display device (5) and an electric power source (10) powering the electronic module and the display device. This instrument further includes an antenna (20) arranged in an off-centre position with respect to the centre (?) of the instrument. The instrument is configured to be worn on the wrist in a first, so-called normal position, and in a second, so-called opposite position, rotated through 180° with respect to the first position about an axis (?) substantially perpendicular to the general plane (?) of the electronic instrument.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: ETA SA Manufacture Horlogère Suisse
    Inventors: David Barras, François Klopfenstein, Christe Laurent
  • Patent number: 6886287
    Abstract: A rifle scope system allows adjustment of the scope while a shooter maintains the shooting posture and the scope sight picture. The scope system comprises an adjustment system comprising an electromechanical mechanism that responds to a signal from a remote controller manipulated by the shooter without having to significantly disturb the shooting posture. The adjustment system allows the shooter to adjust the scope's point of aim to coincide with a bullet's point of impact at a target. Such adjustment can be performed either by the shooter. Alternatively, such adjustment could be performed by a processor configured to adjust the point of aim based on a ballistic parameter associated with the bullet or the shooting environment. The adjustment system allows such processor-determined adjustments to be effected in a quick manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventors: John Curtis Bell, Kendall Seidel
  • Patent number: 6883241
    Abstract: The invention is directed toward a magnetic shield included in a compass-based indicator tool. The indicator tool utilizes a compass to indicate a device setting of an implantable medical device. The implantable medical device may include a target that creates an internal magnetic field for the compass to interact with. External magnetic fields, specifically earth's magnetic field, may interfere with the compass and create an incorrect device setting indication. The magnetic shield blocks the external magnetic fields from influencing the accuracy of the device setting measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ari Moskowitz, Marc Stepkowski
  • Patent number: 6647633
    Abstract: A low profile compass of the type including a transparent base member and fluid-filled vial contains a directional indicator in the vial in the form of a circle which is alignable with another circle imprinted on the vial. A hinged cover assembly can be detented to selected positions and includes a mirrored sight line for direct line sighting, and a lower protective cover or shoe for the base of the compass also serves as a receptacle for instruction sheets and scales for use in taking directional readings as well as for orientation alignment on a topographic map and inclinometer readings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: The Brunton Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Marlin D. Iden
  • Patent number: 6599045
    Abstract: A level pen/pencil or other writing instrument is equipped with an end-mounted level vial which mates with the pen/pencil barrel. The housing of the level is entirely clear allowing for the bubble of the level to be visible from all sides of the pen/pencil. The level pen/pencil is designed with sufficient length for reaching from a center of a child's head to a vertical wall surface for marking the child's height thereon. The level pen/pencil can also be used for other applications requiring both a level and a marking means such as construction, repair work, hanging pictures or shelves, or various other leveling and marking tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Assignee: Gayle Kolb
    Inventor: Gayle L. Kolb
  • Patent number: 6553677
    Abstract: A combination square including a body including two opposing members, each having a plurality of straightedged surfaces, and a clamping element adapted to clamp the opposing members together, the opposing members defining a recess therebetween for receiving therein a rule member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Kapro Industries Ltd.
    Inventor: Manny Szumer
  • Patent number: 6546638
    Abstract: A self-illuminating attitude indicator for use by persons who have been buried in snow or the earth. The attitude indicator has a container partially filled with liquid and a manually operated light to illuminate the container. The liquid may be removed from the container and distributed on the snow to make the location more visible to rescuers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Joan M. Beyer
  • Patent number: 6536123
    Abstract: A hybrid three-axis magnetic sensor for calculating the accurate direction of the earth magnetism. The hybrid three-axis magnetic sensor includes: a flux gate type magnetic sensor which is so formed that a base serves as a main member and detects two axis components of a magnetic vector defined by a plane parallel to the base; a Hall element which detects another component of the magnetic vector orthogonal to the base; a tilt sensor which detects a tilt angle of the base; and a CPU, wherein the flux gate type magnetic sensor and the Hall element are integrally structured together as a hybrid IC. The thus detected three dimensional magnetic vector is corrected in the light of inclination of the base, so that the direction of the earth magnetism is accurately calculated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Assignee: Sensation, Inc.
    Inventor: Yasuhiro Tamura
  • Publication number: 20020095803
    Abstract: A magnetic compass modified for use in linear, angular and, geometric as well as, or instead of, directional measure. Body (30), (35) manufactured to a predetermined circumference and made of a break-resistant material. Mounted on the base (33a) or, suspended from the top section (33b), is a freely pivoting or movable magnetic pointer (32) and a transparent, or partially transparent, upper section (35) so that the position of the pointer may be observed. Outer edge (31) made of slip-resistant material for contact and rotation on surface of structure being measured. Outer edge of base is calibrated with appropriate units positioned for use with pointer. Calibration (FIGS. 4a-c) could also possibly be inscribed on upper section of body instead of on the base. Most operations center around the locations of two variable points on the Compass Ruler, the contact point (37) and the zero point (36).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Mark Meek
  • Publication number: 20020088130
    Abstract: A combination square including a body including two opposing members, each having a plurality of straightedged surfaces, and a clamping element adapted to clamp the opposing members together, the opposing members defining a recess therebetween for receiving therein a rule member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Manny Szumer
  • Publication number: 20020083604
    Abstract: A low profile compass of the type including a transparent base member and fluid-filled vial contains a directional indicator in the vial in the form of a circle which is alignable with another circle imprinted on the vial. A hinged cover assembly can be detented to selected positions and includes a mirrored sight line for direct line sighting, and a lower protective cover or shoe for the base of the compass also serves as a receptacle for instruction sheets and scales for use in taking directional readings as well as for orientation alignment on a topographic map and inclinometer readings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Applicant: The Brunton Company
    Inventor: Marlin D. Iden
  • Publication number: 20020017029
    Abstract: A self-illuminating attitude indicator for use by persons who have been buried in snow or the earth. The attitude indicator has a container partially filled with liquid and a manually operated light to illuminate the container. The liquid may be removed from the container and distributed on the snow to make the location more visible to rescuers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Publication date: February 14, 2002
    Inventor: Joan M. Beyer
  • Patent number: 6256901
    Abstract: A measuring tape comprises a housing in which a pivot is disposed for mounting a reel. A tape blade is releasably wound on the reel such that the tape blade can be pulled out of an opening of the housing. The bottom of the housing is provided with an action slot in which a stop member is slidably disposed. As the stop member is pushed forward, the press portions of the front end of the stop member and the urging portion of an arresting piece pivoted in the housing work together to prevent the rewinding of the tape blade. When the stop member is pushed backward, the arresting piece is pushed to swivel backward so as to move away from the tape blade, thereby enabling the tape blade to be rewound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventor: Hsin-Yun Lin
  • Patent number: 6240650
    Abstract: A combination leveling and edge trimming tool for use during the application of a wallpaper material to a wall surface. The tool includes a substantially thin and elongate planar shaped body having a first face and a second face as well as a first end and a second end. A bottom face of the body extends between the first and second faces and first and second ends and is suitable for receiving an elongate and substantially rigid blade edge suitable for use in leveling and adhering the wallpaper material to the wall surface. First and second level indicators are incorporated within the body and are operable about respective first and second rotating planes. A non-slip gripping material is secured to a selected first or second face and, upon orienting the tool at a specified angle relative to the wall surface, provides a secure engagement to permit trimming of excess wallpaper material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Cecelia D. Olson
  • Patent number: 6205670
    Abstract: A bore centering apparatus includes an elongated level having a laser beam generator at one end insertably received into the center of a centering cone placed within a hole in a wall. Adjustment of the level is made by turnbuckles which adjustably connect the level to the front face of the wall into which the centering cone is placed. The laser beam generator transmits a beam through the centering cone along its central longitudinal axis and therefore is coincident with the central longitudinal axis of the hole so that the beam terminates at a remote or spaced-apart intended target. Offset lines in degrees are carried on the external surface of the centering cone so that layout directions can be derived quickly. A protractor plate may be incorporated into the assembly at the base of the centering cone to set the desired degree of offset. By combining a 45 degree or 30 degree offset mark on the bore cone, the bore assembly is tilted accordingly to show compound angle layouts or directions of mechanical runs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: James Webb
  • Patent number: 6185157
    Abstract: A timepiece (7) including hands (4, 5), direction determining means (10, 11, 14, 12) including data input means (14) arranged for inputting the geographical coordinates of a “target” location in data processing means (12). This timepiece is characterized in that said direction determining means are formed of an antenna (10) and a GPS type receiver (11) for determining the geographical coordinates of the location in which said timepiece (7) is situated, and in that the 6 o'clock-12 o'clock axis of said timepiece (7) is used as a reference axis, and in that at least said first hand (4, 5) is arranged so as to be able to indicate the direction of the “target” location with respect to said reference axis. Such a structure is improved in that it does not need to refer to magnetic north to determine the direction of the “target” location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventor: Pierre-André Farine
  • Patent number: 6167630
    Abstract: A combined laser beam level and square apparatus includes a level having slots or openings along a common side so that the slots or openings may receive a rule or square device that is pivotally mounted thereon so as to be selectively placed in coextensive slots or openings of the level. The coextensive slots include shoulder guides which align the rule into a particular angular orientation such as a 90 degree position with respect to the level or 45 degree orientation or position with respect to the level. Releasable securement means are provided for retaining the level and a base, if used, in a fixed position and other retaining means are provided for holding the rule fixed to the level while in a selected coextensive slot or opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Inventor: James Webb
  • Patent number: 6141880
    Abstract: A tool for laying out a pattern of a measured size and orienting the pattern with respect to an exterior point of reference is disclosed. A cord having a plurality of anchoring points spaced along its length is arrayed to form the pattern. A direction finding device orients the pattern formed by the cord to a point of reference exterior to the pattern. Anchoring devices anchor each anchoring point of the cord to a surface so that the cord is held to the surface in the shape of the pattern. The cord is attached to a spool which stows the cord, anchoring devices, and direction finding device when not deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventor: Bradley J. Vircks
  • Patent number: 5894674
    Abstract: A map is provided for indicating the direction of a fixed point (S), such as a sub-satellite point, from any point (P) within a specified area which is a substantial fraction of the earth's surface. The map projection is such that the actual direction to the fixed point (S) is the same as the direction shown on the map, when the map is aligned with a reference direction such as magnetic north. Optionally, the distance to the fixed point on the map represents the elevation of the satellite. Apparatus for using the map includes a holder (10) for the map and for a magnetic compass (18). A scale (22) which rotates about the fixed point on the map has a marker (32) which is positioned over the user's location on the map. The azimuthal direction of the satellite is indicated by an arrow (28) on the scale, while the elevation of the satellite is read off the scale by means of a pointer (34) located on the fixed point on the map.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: International Mobile Satellite Organization
    Inventor: Howard Feldman
  • Patent number: 5820476
    Abstract: A golf putter leveling system including a shoe level adapted for securement to a golf shoe. A putter level is provided that is adapted for securement to a shaft of a golf putter. The putter level includes a base portion having a lower arcuate recess and an upper arcuate recess. The lower arcuate recess has a pair of detents disposed on opposing sides thereof. The lower arcuate recess snapidly engages the shaft of the golf putter. The upper arcuate recess has a level portion disposed therein. A putter leveler is adapted for securement to the shaft of the golf putter. The putter leveler has an upper portion defined by an arcuate recess for engaging the shaft of the golf putter. The putter leveler has a lower portion defined by outwardly extending legs for supporting the golf putter at an even level so as to zero the putter level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Inventor: Louis Amato
  • Patent number: 5813125
    Abstract: A hands free square and level which includes a self holding square that has central channels formed by opposing inner and outer walls. The central channels include mounting holes in its outer wall to allow it to be mounted on a work piece via screws. An inner wall, opposing the outer wall, has corresponding screw driver apertures to allow access to the screws by a screwdriver. The central channel also has transverse bolt apertures which allow the square to be face mounted on a work surface by inserting a bolt through a transverse bolt aperture and then into a work surface. A separate detachable level is sized to slidably fit within a central channel. Hands free operation is achieved by attaching the self holding square to a work surface and then inserting the level into a central channel. An alternative embodiment uses one or more levels which are integrally mounted on the square.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1998
    Inventor: John Byrn
  • Patent number: 5752322
    Abstract: A gimballed compass apparatus with digital logic is disclosed which provides directional and attitudinal data. The apparatus comprises a rotatably mounted slotted disk wherein the slot is continuously varying in width around the circumference of the disk. The disk incorporates an elongated magnet which cause it to rotate in relation to an external magnetic field. A first and second aperture are located on the top and bottom elements of the chamber defining a light passage. The apertures have a rectangular length approximately the maximum width of the slot. The slotted disk is positioned intermediate the apertures. A light housing is provided below the chamber and includes a light source. A linear array of source detector are provided above the chamber. Each source detector element provides a response proportional to the specific amount of light incident upon it. The light beam is reflected from the aperture by a mirror to a beam focusing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventor: W. Stan Lewis
  • Patent number: 5738595
    Abstract: Adapters removably affixing a hand held laser pointer to selected apparatus are disclosed. The adapters include structure for mounting therein the laser pointer having a laser module emitting a laser beam, a casing, a voltage source and a switch for controlling the laser module. Also included is a device for maintaining the laser pointer in an on condition and means for removably affixing the adapters to the selected apparatus such that when the adapters are affixed thereon, the laser beam emitted from the laser pointer is aimed in a predetermined relation with respect to the selected apparatus. The laser pointer and associated adapters are employed to optimize the use of the laser pointer and enhance the selected apparatus upon which it is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: William P. Carney
  • Patent number: 5697162
    Abstract: The arrangement (42) according to the invention is formed by a watch comprising a dial (8) on which is shown a map (14) centered on a given geographic location, Mecca in particular. The arrangement (42) comprises a device (48) for indicating the direction of the terrestrial magnetic north and a device (16) enabling the angular positioning of the map in the general plane of the arrangement (42) corresponding to the plane of the dial (8). The different geographic regions shown on the map (14) are graphically arranged so that any point whatsoever of the contours of such regions substantially shows an angular spread (.OMEGA.), relative to a center of reference (22) corresponding to the above-mentioned given geographic location and to a reference direction (24) equal to the magnetic azimuth of the great circle passing through said point and the reference point (22) augmented by 180.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 16, 1997
    Assignee: Asulab S.A.
    Inventors: Etienne Bornand, Jean-Jacques Born
  • Patent number: 5647134
    Abstract: A compass for mobile parabolic antenna includes a compass sphere having a transparent shell with an elevation dial and a magnetic core encapsulated by the transparent shell with fluid filled therebetween with a bubble enclosed within the transparent shell and a directional mark pointing to a fixed direction on the magnetic core, an annular plate having a location dial and a satellite name dial provided on edges of the plate, a cover plate having a central hole and a plurality of arcuated grooves, and a base plate having a circular depression, a plurality of arcuated recesses corresponding to the grooves on the cover plate defined in the depression, and a central bore corresponding to the central hole on the cover plate so that the compass sphere can be secured within the central hole and the central bore and the annular plate can be rotatably received by the circular depression when the cover plate couples with the base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Shiau-fong Chou
  • Patent number: 5630279
    Abstract: A cross-hair sight of the present invention includes a frame, a cross-hair or horizontal sighting pin secured in the frame, and a level mounted in the frame to be generally parallel to the horizontal sighting pin. A pair of generally circular openings are formed in the radial outer surface of the frame and the level is journaled in the openings. The openings have a diameter larger than the diameter of the level, and a pair of adjusting screws are provided which secure the level in holes. The position of the level relative to the sight frame may be adjusted to square the level to the bow by adjusting the adjusting screws without the need to adjust the position of the sight relative to the bow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 20, 1997
    Assignee: Toxonics Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott O. Slates
  • Patent number: 5566459
    Abstract: A laser beam device to perform sightings and tracings which makes use of a calibrated tube inside which resides a laser emitting component of which the optical emitting axis coincides with the mechanical axis of the tube, a mirror securely mounted at the end of the tube and set at a 45.degree. angle from the incident laser beam, an end piece mounted and rotating on the end of the tube which includes a number of ports which can be brought to be coaxially centered in the reflected beam by simply rotating the end piece and a number of optical systems respectively mounted in the ports. The device provides flexibility without requiring additional set-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Charles Breda
  • Patent number: 5546671
    Abstract: A set of cooperating tools to assist a roofer in the multiple tasks involved in covering a roof surface with shingles or tiles, and numerous other chores associated with wall and roof construction, protection and maintenance. The set includes a straight-edge ruler, shingle and tile cutting jig, workbench, knee-rests, blade knife, gauges, levels and various accessories that can be synergistically combined to accurately and safely measure, cut and install shingles or tiles while standing on a slanted roof surface under precarious conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Inventor: Ted P. Kehoe
  • Patent number: 5522146
    Abstract: A holder for releasably engaging a level and pencil therein. The holder generally comprises a housing having first and second open ends configured to releasably fit about a carpenter's pencil. A window is centrally positioned in a wall of the housing and between two longitudinally spaced-apart walls positioned within the housing which form a chamber therebetween. A port in each wall allows for extension of a bubble level between the end walls through the chamber and adjacent the window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Inventor: Edwin E. Warburton
  • Patent number: 5505001
    Abstract: A tool for aiding in the leveling of electrical switches. This tool rests on the top portion of the rim around the toggle of single, and three and four-way switches that have a metal mounting bracket. This tool holds itself to the switch so that the user has use of both hands for adjusting and fastening purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: James Schaver, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5487222
    Abstract: A combination level has a rectangular housing and liquid-filled vials each having an entrained gas bubble to indicate horizontal level and vertical plumb at a local location. A scope element is incorporated within the housing and utilized to ascertain level at a remote location. A lens system within the scope element allows the user to focus the image and cooperates with the horizontally disposed vial to indicate level at a distance. Alternatively, a sighting bead is incorporated into a sighting groove on the top of the housing to viewably align an object at a distance. A flip-out mirror assembly associated with a horizontally disposed vial allows the user to evaluate the horizontal level at a remote location through cooperation with the sighting bead. A recess with fixed bearings allows the housing to be mounted on a makeshift stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Inventor: Gary Fairchild
  • Patent number: 5469630
    Abstract: A gimballed compass apparatus is disclosed which provides directional and inclinational data. The apparatus comprises a rotatably mounted slotted disk wherein the slot is continuously varying in width around the circumference of the disk. The disk incorporates an elongated magnet which causes it to rotate in relation to an external magnetic field. A first and second aperture are located on the top and bottom elements of the chamber defining a emission passage. The apertures have a rectangular length approximately the maximum width of the slot. The slotted disk is positioned intermediate the apertures. An emission housing is provided below the chamber and includes an emission source and a first source detector. A second source detector is provided above the chamber. The source detectors provide a response to the intensity of emission incident upon them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 28, 1995
    Inventor: W. Stan Lewis
  • Patent number: 5423638
    Abstract: A mine roof support having means for monitoring the angles made by the canopy 11 and the base 10 with respect to a datum. The angular information may be gathered in a number of different ways and the information used to control subsequent movements of the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Gullick Dobson Limited
    Inventor: Colin G. M. Merriman
  • Patent number: 5402579
    Abstract: A C-clamp with integral bubble levels comprising a C-clamp which has a horizontal portion with two generally parallel vertical portions extending perpendicularly from the ends of the horizontal portion. The first vertical portion is formed with a threaded circular aperture with the axis of which is parallel with the horizontal portion. The second of the vertical portions is provided with a planar surface perpendicular to the axis of the aperture. A rod with exterior threads extends through the aperture and is rotatably coupled thereto whereby rotation of the rod will effect its axial movement. The end of the rod between the vertical portions is provided with a planar surface parallel with the planar surface of the first vertical portion. A planar surface is formed on the horizontal portion on the side thereof remote from the vertical portions. A bubble level is removedly secured to the planar surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Inventor: Robert K. Smith
  • Patent number: 5394616
    Abstract: A laser positioning device is provided in which a level is associated with a demountable mounting set-up and a plate member. The plate member projects laterally from the level and is scribed with a protractor. A pointer is pivotally associated with the apex of the protractor. A laser beam generator is associated with the pointer. Thus, a laser beam from this generator can be impinged against a remote target location that is in a predetermined orientation relative to the generator when the device is mounted by the mounting set-up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Douglas Claxton
  • Patent number: 5388337
    Abstract: A level includes a compass member fixedly mounted within the level, the level having spirit levels positioned on opposed sides of the compass, and the compass having a rotatable ring arranged to provide for angular deflection relative to a predetermined orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: William J. Powers, II
  • Patent number: 5379524
    Abstract: An improved versatile tape measure tool is provided, which consists of an elongated strip of tape marked off in a linear scale for taking measurements. A casing is for storing the tape therein in a coiled spring biased condition with the tape being extendable through a first end wall of the casing for measuring. A plurality of components are built into the casing, to help in the measuring and cutting to size of plasterboard, so that the plasterboard can be used to cover interior walls and ceilings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 10, 1995
    Inventor: Melvin Dawson
  • Patent number: 5361504
    Abstract: A universal guide for an electric drill includes a transparent elongated L-shaped member with two mutually perpendicular faces. Each face has two parallel long edges and two short edges, and they share a common long edge. For each face, one of the two short edges is a perpendicular edge and the other of the two short edges is an angled edge in which the perpendicular edges are perpendicular to the long edges, and the common edge is formed such that the perpendicular edges are mutually adjacent to each other and the angled edges are mutually adjacent to each other. Magnetic areas are formed on surfaces of each of the faces. Level indicators are attached to each face perpendicular to the common long edge and to the common long edge in a direction perpendicular to the perpendicular level indicators. At least one long edge is ruled and guide lines are marked on the faces in a direction parallel to the long edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 8, 1994
    Inventor: Hung C. Huang
  • Patent number: 5359781
    Abstract: A self centering guide pipe axis laser guide is based on the use of three parallel links spaced 120 degrees apart which are engaged to be expanded or contracted. When expanded the links contact the inside diameter of the pipe which accordingly establishes the center axis of the pipe. The driving means for the links is a rotating screw mounted in a base centrally located with respect to the three links. In the front of the base is a laser module whose beam is aligned with the center axis of the pipe once the links contact the inner diameter of the pipe. Gauges mounted in a saddle on top of the pipe determine the proper slope once the center axis has been established. A calibrated scale on the guide can be used for determining both inner and outer diameters of the pipe. While the laser guide has been illustrated in determining the center line of pipes, it also has other uses such as aligning pillow blocks to a center line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 1, 1994
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Melville
  • Patent number: 5313712
    Abstract: An instrument console for use in scuba diving includes a console body having a first end adapted for connection to a pressurized air line, and a second end opposite the first end, at least one instrument being secured within the console body, a compass having top and side Lubber Lines, a compass housing configured to accommodate the compass and being connected to the second end of the console body to pivot relative to the console body, so that while held in front of the swimming diver, the compass may be maintained and read in a generally horizontal position, and the instruments may be viewed in a generally vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Assignee: Dacor Corporation
    Inventors: Timothy N. Curameng, James R. Lutz, Mark L. Walsh
  • Patent number: 5309645
    Abstract: An instrument set for plumbing or leveling and relative height setting of members such as posts or beams, each instrument including orthogonal sides and a feature projecting from the top of one side allowing each instrument to be set atop a respective post with the orthogonal sides against the post and a rabbeted feature on the bottom of one side allowing the instruments to be set atop a beam. Bubble levels on the sides of at least one of the instruments enable plumbing of a post or leveling of a beam, and open topped sight tubes attached to each instrument and interconnected with a water filled hose enable height setting with the same instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Randal V. Hoffmeyer
  • Patent number: 5269065
    Abstract: A compass wherein positional information regarding a predetermined terrestrial location is stored; present time, corresponding to the terrestrial location whose positional information is stored, is measured and displayed; and constellation data is stored. A geomagnetism-detector is provided for detecting the direction of geomagnetism and for deriving azimuthal data therefrom. A constellation data display device is provided for reading out stored constellation data in accordance with the derived azimuthal data, the stored positional information, and the measured present time, and for displaying the readout constellation data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1993
    Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasushi Ida
  • Patent number: 5208990
    Abstract: A masonry level is arranged and configured as an elongate plate, including a planar top surface spaced from and parallel to a planar bottom surface, wherein a U-shaped handle is mounted medially of the top surface extending orthogonally and upwardly thereof having a first spirit level positioned within the handle to the top surface, with second and third spirit levels orthogonally oriented relative to the first spirit level and parallel relative to one another arranged to provide for a planar top surface in the leveling of masonry block and brick. A modification of the invention includes impact structure arranged to enhance ease of manipulation of underlying masonry workpieces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1993
    Inventor: Oscar J. Woerlein
  • Patent number: 5187871
    Abstract: A navigation device for personal use includes a face mask with a transparent window for binocular vision when the device is worn by the user. The face mask has a directional indicator attachement with a multiplicity of symbols to identify the directional orientation of the mask. The directional indicator is attached at a stable location and distance for continuous availability of direct binocular viewing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Inventor: Damien McDermott
  • Patent number: 5175936
    Abstract: An electronic compass can store azimuth data of points to be passed by a user in a plurality of registers, and the stored azimuth data are sequentially displayed on a display device every time an external operation switch is operated. The compass includes a magnetic sensor for detecting a geomagnetism, thereby obtaining north azimuth data on the earth. The north azimuth data obtained by the magentic sensor is displayed simultaneously with the stored azimuth data. Therefore, the user can know at each point a direction to go on the basis of the two displayed azimuth data, i.e., the stored azimuth data, and the north azimuth data on the earth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignee: Casio Computer Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Sato
  • Patent number: 5033200
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a scientific ruler incorporated with a concave lens and a convex lens which may be dismantled from the ruler and aligned with each other to compose as a telescope. The concave lens or convex lens may be replaced by a compass. A protractor is provided around the periphery of the concave lens. An inclined plane is formed at either one or both ends of the ruler capable of refracting the sunlight into a rainbow spectrum. Further, a comb and a thermometer are provided. In addition to various mathematic and equal signs and undulate edge there are more space area for indicating name of the user and adhering stickers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1991
    Inventor: Yee T. Leung