Add-on-type Reference-surface Section Patents (Class 33/376)
  • Patent number: 11650053
    Abstract: An extendible or adjustable length level is provided. The level includes a frame, a slidable member, and a bushing. The slidable member is coupled to the frame and extends and retracts along the frame. The bushing is coupled to one of the frame or the slidable member and couples the frame and slidable member together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
    Inventors: Haoming Tang, Samuel J. Howard, Anthony S. Graykowski, Daniel L. Block
  • Patent number: 10766121
    Abstract: An improved system and method for clamping of carpenter levels is disclosed. Within the system, it is not necessary to re-size and re-adjust the clamps over and over again as they are re-located. As such, time-consuming repetitive steps are reduced. Additionally, the system can be applied to a variety of clamping surfaces, and can be swiveled to fit at unusual angles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2020
    Assignee: Handy Tools, LLC
    Inventor: Keith DeArmond
  • Patent number: 9970760
    Abstract: An end cap arrangement for a level, in which a frame of the level includes and end defining a recess and one or more engagement protrusions. The end cap arrangement includes an end cap body and a retainer that is movable between engaged and release positions. The retainer includes retainer structure that engages the engagement protrusions when the retainer is in the engaged position to prevent removal of the end cap body. The retainer also includes clearance structure that can be moved past the engagement protrusions to enable the end cap body to be removed from the level frame. The end cap arrangement may be used with either a box beam or I-beam level frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: Johnson Level & Tool Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Wojciechowski
  • Patent number: 9933259
    Abstract: The orthogonally aligned level tool comprises a plurality of bubble levels that measure the level of measured surfaces near walls and corners. The orthogonally aligned level tool comprises a central component, a first wing, and a second wing. The first wing and the central component are connected using a first telescopic shaft. The first telescopic shaft allows for a physical separation of distance between the first wing and the central component which allows for the level measurement of a larger surface than can be measured by a traditional level. The second wing and the central component are connected using a second telescopic shaft. The second telescopic shaft allows for a physical separation of distance between the second wing and the central component which allows for the level measurement of a larger surface than can be measured by a traditional level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2018
    Inventor: Laester Vargas
  • Patent number: 8898916
    Abstract: A portable device for measuring a deflection of a surface, comprising an elongate frame having a first end and a second end and a first datum surface, a first removable reference support adjacent the first end, a second removable reference support adjacent the second end, a deflection gauge attached to the elongate frame between the first removable reference support and the second removable reference support, and wherein the deflection gauge engages and measures a deflection of the surface relative to the first removable reference support and the second removable reference support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: EFI Global, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Heyer
  • Patent number: 8850710
    Abstract: The present invention is a construction level system having interconnectable level sections and attachments that can be stored in a carrying bag. Each level section has a construction level and a pair of locking mechanisms that enable interconnections to other level sections or attachments. The locking mechanisms have mating profiles and a locking lever that enable a user to securely mate the locking mechanisms of different level sections together. The carrying bag has pockets sized to the level sections. The bag further comprises a carrying strap and a plurality of compartments for retaining small objects such as pencils and tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventors: Timothy J. Rodrigue, Scott W. Adams
  • Patent number: 8407906
    Abstract: A portable device for measuring deflection of a surface, comprising an elongate frame having a first end and a second end and a first datum surface, a first removable reference assembly adjacent the first end, a second removable reference adjacent the second end, a deflection gauge attached to the elongate frame between the first removable reference assembly and the second removable reference assembly, and wherein the deflection gauge engages and measures a deflection of the surface relative to the first removable reference assembly and the second removable reference assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Cunningham Lindsey U.S., Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Heyer
  • Patent number: 8261459
    Abstract: An extendable edge reference tool is disclosed. A first segment having a extending end and a receptacle end is provided. The receptacle end includes a coupling mechanism for joining a second segment using an over-center locking force to secure said second segment to said first segment. This tool provides for a useful continuous reference edge over extended distances through adjoining segments. Each segment is suitably compact to be easy stowed. The segments are useful individually. The segments can be joined to extend tool to lengths useful in common construction tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: D2M International PTY Ltd.
    Inventors: Edward Cooper, Jeff Hayashida, Andrew Butler, David Titzler, Brian Lamb, John Johnston, Christopher Tacklind
  • Patent number: 8104187
    Abstract: A portable device for measuring deflection of a surface, comprising an elongate frame having a first end and a second end and a first datum surface, a first removable reference assembly adjacent the first end, a second removable reference adjacent the second end, a deflection gauge attached to the elongate frame between the first removable reference assembly and the second removable reference assembly, and wherein the deflection gauge engages and measures a deflection of the surface relative to the first removable reference assembly and the second removable reference assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Daniel Heyer
  • Patent number: 8061054
    Abstract: An adjustable picture and wall hanging device comprising an elongated strap having thereon a pair of spaced sliders, each slider having a point thereon to enable a spot to be marked on a wall, and a level centrally mounted on the strap for facilitating leveling of the device so that the item to be mounted will be level. Alternatively the level can be on one slider. This device enables pictures and other items to be hung on a wall in a simple, quick and easy manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Jared Rabin
  • Publication number: 20110016735
    Abstract: An extendable edge reference tool is disclosed. A first segment having a extending end and a receptacle end is provided. The receptacle end includes a coupling mechanism for joining a second segment using an over-center locking force to secure said second segment to said first segment. This tool provides for a useful continuous reference edge over extended distances through adjoining segments. Each segment is suitably compact to be easy stowed. The segments are useful individually. The segments can be joined to extend tool to lengths useful in common construction tasks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventors: Edward Cooper, Jeff Hayashida, Andrew Butler, David Titzler, Brian Lamb, John Johnston, Christopher Tacklind
  • Publication number: 20100325906
    Abstract: A level 11 is provided comprising a base 1 having a top reference edge 2 and recession 3 wherein a slidable member 8 fits within the recession 3 of the base 1 and is slidable to extend the top reference edge 2 of the base for multiple lengths. Further embodiments of the present invention provide a level 11 having attachment means to level at various angles and additional lengths.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: Frank T. Yowonske
  • Patent number: 7832112
    Abstract: A level including an elongate hollow frame with two sidewalls and a topwall extending therebetween, a topnotch defined by the walls which have notch-defining edges including non-vertical surfaces, and a vial within the topnotch. A vial-mounting structure includes a vial-holding member and a locking member movably secured with respect to the vial-holding member. The vial-holding member is configured for resting on the non-vertical notch-edge surfaces. The locking member includes frame-engaging portions which press upwardly against a frame inner surface to pull the vial-holding member downwardly against the non-vertical notch-edge surfaces, thereby securing the vial-holding member to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Empire Level Mfg. Co.
    Inventor: John Christianson
  • Patent number: 7805850
    Abstract: An extendable edge reference tool is disclosed. A first segment having a extending end and a receptacle end is provided. The receptacle end includes a coupling mechanism for joining a second segment using an over-center locking force to secure said second segment to said first segment. This tool provides for a useful continuous reference edge over extended distances through adjoining segments. Each segment is suitably compact to be easy stowed. The segments are useful individually. The segments can be joined to extend tool to lengths useful in common construction tasks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Design to Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Cooper, Jeff Hayashida, Andrew Butler, David Titzler, Brian Lamb, John Johnston, Christopher Tacklind
  • Patent number: 7562463
    Abstract: A combination level and square includes a straight generally rectangular first level including a number of attachment elements and a cavity defined therein. It further includes a straight generally rectangular second level including a number of attachment elements adapted to cooperatively engage with the attachment elements of the first level, such that the first level cavity is dimensioned to releasably receive the second level therein, such that the level can be placed in nested position. Preferably the attachment elements are so arranged that the two levels can further be placed in a long position, a square position, a t-square position and an angled position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Inventor: Ed Vaes
  • Patent number: 7497022
    Abstract: An infinitely adjustable level with a least one extender that extends outward from the end of a central body. The level indicating devices can be attached to the extenders, to the central body, or to the extenders and the central body. In this manner the level indicating devices will never be obscured as the extenders are adjusted, no matter what the length of adjustment might be. The infinitely adjustable level provides a method of positioning a level indicating device in a manner such that the level indicating device can be moved to a location for best and most accurate viewing by the operator. The infinitely adjustable level provides a method of locking the central body with the extenders so that relative lateral movement is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Inventor: James Arthur Aarhus
  • Patent number: 7281335
    Abstract: A level assembly includes a main level with a base wall, end supports at opposite ends of the base wall and at least one intermediate support extending from the base wall at a location between the end supports. Bubble tubes may be mounted in the end supports and/or the intermediate support of the main level. At least first and second auxiliary levels are releasably mounted to the base wall of the main level and can be used independently of the main level. Alternatively, the main level can be used with the auxiliary levels in place and in certain embodiment can be used while the auxiliary levels are separated from the main level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2007
    Inventor: Pedro Feliciano
  • Patent number: 7086166
    Abstract: The present spirit level has an elongated body with a longitudinal leveling face and at least one inclination peg retractably mounted in the body. The inclination peg is configured to selectably extend at least partially out from the leveling face by at least one predetermined stepwise increment, such that when it contacts a surface to be leveled, the inclination peg raises the leveling face to a predetermined angle of inclination from the surface to be leveled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool Company
    Inventors: Eric John Helda, Leslie Daily Gist
  • Patent number: 6694632
    Abstract: A level comprises a frame defining first and second parallel channels and first and second rails fitted slidingly in the first and second channels respectively. The level is adjustable in length by sliding the rails in the respective channels of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Inventor: Jack M. Schooley
  • Publication number: 20010049879
    Abstract: A portable level and square laser alignment tool comprising a base and a separable L-shaped square. The base serves as an adjustable mounting surface upon which the L-shaped square is removably secured via a dual cam mechanism. The L-shaped square comprises two legs positioned at ninety degrees from each other thereby serving as a square to draw and/or test inside or outside right angles. Carried on each leg is a bubble level for providing a means to level the L-shaped square and/or the base. Additionally, a battery powered laser is attached to and is positioned in-line with each leg. The L-shaped square can be utilized alone or in conjunction with the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 13, 2001
    Inventor: Robert W. Moore
  • Patent number: 6293023
    Abstract: A level comprises a frame defining first and second parallel channels and first and second rails fitted slidingly in the first and second channels respectively. The level is adjustable in length by sliding the rails in the respective channels of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Inventor: Jack M. Schooley
  • Patent number: 5806196
    Abstract: A method and apparatus (10) for aligning a towed vehicle (12) with a towing vehicle (14) is disclosed. The method is implemented with an alignment apparatus (10) including a base (22) configured for attachment to the towed vehicle (12), a platform (23) rotatably mounted on the base (22), and a level device (24) mounted on the rotatable platform (23). While the towed vehicle (12) is connected to the towing vehicle (14), the platform (23) and level device (24) are rotated until the level device (24) is in its level position. This sets a reference height position for the towed vehicle (12). When it is desired to reconnect the towed vehicle (12) with the towing vehicle (14), the towed vehicle (12) is raised until the level device (24) is once again in its level position. In one embodiment, the alignment apparatus includes a base hingedly connected to a mounting bracket for permitting side-to-side leveling of the towed vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventors: Gary T. Gibbs, E. Leon Hopkins
  • Patent number: 5655309
    Abstract: A construction tool for orienting the longitudinal axis of a tubular work piece perpendicular to the horizon (i.e. in a true vertical position) is disclosed. The tool comprises a concentric stack of tool sections increasing in external cross section area, similar in appearance to an upside down layered cake. The external cross section configuration of each succeeding plate is dimensioned to conform substantially with an interior cross section of various hollow tubular work pieces. Located at the center point the top tool section is a conventional bulls eye level. A trough is located in the sidewall of the tool parallel to a longitudinal axis of the tool. The cross section of the trough is dimensioned to conform substantially with the exterior of a hollow or solid tubular work piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 12, 1997
    Inventor: Ibrahim Al Hadrami
  • Patent number: 5617641
    Abstract: An infinitely adjustable level with a pair of extenders that extend out from opposite ends of a central body. The level vials can be attached to the extenders, to the central body, or to the extenders and the central body. In this manner the level vials will never be obscured as the extenders are adjusted, no matter what the length of adjustment might be. Also, this form of adjustment allows the level to be used where both ends must butt against objects and there is no way the level can overhang.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Inventor: James A. Aarhus
  • Patent number: 5442864
    Abstract: A hand tool for leveling operations includes level and plumb indicators in an elongated, linear support member, or body. Disposed on opposed ends of the support member are first and second telescoping extension members. By positioning the distal end of one extension member in a recessed point or line on a wall, commonly known as a "quirk", and using the level indicator, a point or a line on another adjacent wall at the same elevation, or height, may be precisely located. The opposed extensions may also be used with a ruler to precisely measure the vertical distance between a structure inaccessible by a conventional level, such as a doorway header, and the edge of an adjacent structure, such as a ceiling beam. Another embodiment includes a plurality of spaced, retractable projections along the length of the support member which are particularly useful for leveling a structure such as where the level is too long for positioning within the structure, such as a doorway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventor: Michael A. Erman
  • Patent number: 5433011
    Abstract: A collapsible, compound level apparatus is provided and includes a first linear leveling section and a second linear leveling section. Each section includes at least one flat surface for contact with a work surface, and first and second bubble levels arranged for indicating level and plumb, respectively, of the work surface. The first section provides at one end thereof an engagement tongue that engages an engagement groove of one end of the second section, thereby providing colinear interconnection of the leveling sections and forming an integral linear structure for positioning the flat surfaces of each section in mutually coplanar contiguous alignment. The engagement tongue has an oblique surface and an end stop surface for contacting a mating oblique surface and a mating end stop surface of the engagement groove. The oblique surfaces and the mating end stop surfaces of each section form an acute angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventors: Dane Scarborough, Jesse Vint
  • Patent number: 5408752
    Abstract: A plumb tool kit attachable to the ends of a common level member, or the like, used to determine vertical alignment. The kit comprises a pair of end caps each having a cap body. Each cap body has a first and a second arm extending therefrom, the first and said second arms forming a right angle. Each cap body has an opening therein to receive a level, each opening having a preselected orientation wherein when the openings of the pair of end caps receive the, the arms are transverse to the level. The first arms and at least a portion of the level define a first plane and the second arms and at least a portion of the level defining a second plane. One or both of the pair of end caps includes an apparatus for determining vertical alignment, such as, for example, a bull's eye level, wherein when the openings of the pair of end caps receive the level, the bull's eye level has a location in a plane transverse to the level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: Richard L. Eadens
  • Patent number: 5398423
    Abstract: Straight edge apparatus for setting a level, second row of tile in the tub splash above an upper side edge of a tub, and extendable straight edge apparatus are disclosed. The apparatus for setting the second row of tile comprises and elongate straight edge formed by a substantially flat, elongate member having at least one straight side edge and a width that is less than the side dimension of the tile being laid. A flat flange extending substantially perpendicular from a straight edge of the flat, elongate member, and at least two, spaced apart leg means of adjustable length extend from the flat, elongate member in a direction away from the float flange on the flat, elongate member. The flat elongate member can be set flatwise against a wall on which the tile of the tub splash is to be set, with distal ends of the leg means resting on the upper side edge of the tub and being adjusted in length so that the flat flange is level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Inventor: Allen L. Smith
  • Patent number: 5388338
    Abstract: An interlocking screed level and method comprising a rectangularly-shaped screed section having a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, a back surface, and a first and second end. A rectangular preform extension member of a lesser dimension than the exterior boundary of the screed section extends axially from the first end of the screed section. A rectangular joint recess extends axially from the exterior of the second end of the screed section and has a depth commensurate with the length of the extension member with a boundary of minimally less than the extension member for receiving extension members of adjoining screed sections. A first lock component is located at the first end of the screed section and a second lock component is located at the second end of the screed section. A bottom surface for planing concrete surfaces is provided. A level gage is provided in the top surface for ensuring levelness of the concrete surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Inventor: Kevin R. Majors
  • Patent number: 5353509
    Abstract: A multi-purpose combination tool for forming an enlarged T-square or, alternately, an elongated carpenter's level to facilitate installation of wall panels, doors, windows, signs and the like. The tool comprises an arm and a cross member rigidly mountable perpendicularly thereon. The arm and the cross member each have a central web portion with parallel flanges at opposite end edges of the web portion and spaced apart level vials secured within cutouts formed in each of the respective web portions. Ruler scales are situated along the end edges so that when the arm is rigidly mounted perpendicularly to the cross member, the scales share a common point of origin. In addition, the cross member, when so attached to the arm, forms a shoulder projecting outwardly therefrom against which the straight edge of a workpiece can be abutted while the arm itself is used as a guide for marking or cutting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Daniel C. Black
  • Patent number: 5245758
    Abstract: An attachment for a carpenter's level to create a T-square comprises an integrally molded head member having a rectangular socket formed therein and extending perpendicular to reference edges defined by opposed parallel spaced-apart side walls. By inserting one end of a spirit level into the socket and by tightening down a set screw, the head member is releasibly attached to the carpenter's level and with the longitudinal axis of that level intersecting the bottom edges of the head member at an angle of 90.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1993
    Inventor: A. Joseph Riley
  • Patent number: 5233760
    Abstract: A module for measuring level, plumb and various angles by a simple hand manipulation. The module, which contains a bubble in a vial, is in one modality located in a carpenter's leveling bar and is slidable therein so that it may always be oriented at eye level for ease of viewing. The module is compact in size and design for ease in carrying on one's person and, it may be attached to a framing square or a straight edge, for example, such that measuring of the horizontal, vertical, and acute or obtuse angles may be readily accomplished in a portable fashion. In another mode, the measuring module which is formed upon a four-sided support member may be utilized without any additional structural element to provide a self contained angular measuring mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1993
    Inventor: E. Ennalls Patterson
  • Patent number: 5103569
    Abstract: Disclosed is a leveling tool that has three leveling indicators mounted thereon, one of which is removable and usable as a separate tool when bending electrical conduit. A calculator is integrated into the leveling tool for performing calculations during leveling or during the bending of conduit. A phosphorescent liquid is used in the bubble level indicators for low light use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: The Level Corporation
    Inventor: Lester Leatherwood
  • Patent number: 4989332
    Abstract: Measuring apparatus having at least one measuring scale for effecting measurements, a straight edge for marking straight lines, a spirit level for testing for horizontality, and a friction-creating device for providing a grip for the measuring apparatus on a surface against which the measuring apparatus is to be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 5, 1991
    Inventor: Anthony C. Worrallo
  • Patent number: 4910876
    Abstract: An attachment for connection with an elongated carpenter's level for forming an enlarged squaring tool, the level having a central web portion with spaced apart bubble indicators and parallel flanges at opposite end edges of the web portions. The attachment has an elongated arm member of rigid material with a connector arm fixed to and extending from it at a right angle. The connector arm has an elongated slot means forming a pair of spaced apart connector members, each having a peripheral cross section similar to but slightly smaller than the cross section of pockets located on opposite sides of the level web portion so that the connector members can be moved axially into said level pockets to firmly, but temporarily, secure the attachment to the level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 27, 1990
    Inventor: John F. Channell
  • Patent number: 4635414
    Abstract: A device for use in positioning and securing a door jamb in a level condition. The device includes a spacer plate assembly having outer end portions which extend beneath the inner portion of the sides of the jamb during the leveling process. A pair of bolt shaped members are threadedly received in the spacer plate assembly, one at each end thereof, to provide a means of raising and lowering the ends of the spacer plate assembly. A suitable level indicating unit such as a carpenter's level is also mounted on the spacer plate. The device further includes a pair of anchor base plates which are mounted in the floor, one at each end of the spacer plate, adjacent the lip extensions. The bolt members are rotated until the level indicating unit shows the spacer plate to be in a level condition, at which time each side of the door jamb is fixed to the respective anchor base plate by anchor screws or similar means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1983
    Date of Patent: January 13, 1987
    Inventor: Ernest R. Allen
  • Patent number: 4503623
    Abstract: A plurality of blocks are removably held between a pair of elongated straight frame members, the majority of the blocks carrying a spirit vial therein. The frame members are held together by either a plurality of springs connected there between or by interconnection with the blocks. The arrangement of the blocks and the number thereof may be easily changed and selected at will. A pair of corner blocks may also be carried by said frame members adjacent the ends thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1979
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1985
    Inventor: Edward Gould, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4461090
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp adjuster has an expandable plate with pads for contacting a roadway surface and then a vehicle headlamp. A level indicator has perpendicular, communicating spirit levels and is rotatable about an axis parallel to the plate, to set one spirit level when the pads contact the surface on which the vehicle rests, so that the other spirit level will indicate horizontal when the plate and pads are rotated 90.degree. and brought to bear on the vehicle headlamps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1982
    Date of Patent: July 24, 1984
    Assignee: Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Evan L. Hopkins
  • Patent number: 4435908
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the plumbness of vertical studs of building structure frames includes a vertical main body member with a horizontal vial therein and having first and second opposed, plane, parallel surfaces, first and second vertical extension members being connected to said main body member and slidably engaging said first and second plane, parallel surfaces, respectively, first and second quick-release mechanisms releasably locking said first and second vertical extension members to said main body member, a first offset member connected to the upper end of the first vertical extension member and extending to an imaginary plane that is parallel to the first surface, and a second offset member extending from the bottom of the second vertical extension member to the imaginary plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1982
    Date of Patent: March 13, 1984
    Inventor: Paul M. Semler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 4327501
    Abstract: Mounting structure is provided for support from one side of an elongated body of a carpenter's level having a window extending transversely therethrough and opening through the aforementioned one side of the body. The mounting structure pivotally supports one end of an elongated arm from a first end of the body for swinging between a first position in superposed parallel relation to the aforementioned one side of the body and a second position with the arm projecting at 90.degree. relative to the body. The window in the body has a spirit level mounted therein and the arm includes a portion thereof in registry with the window having an opening formed therethrough. Also, the mounting structure and arm include coacting first latch portions for releasably retaining the arm in the second extended position thereof and second coacting latch portions for releasably retaining the arm in the first position thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1979
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1982
    Inventor: Alfred A. Hurt
  • Patent number: 4229885
    Abstract: A level for use in taking level readings on vertical and horizontal surfaces. The level has a case within which an enclosure with some instrumentation is disposed in a vertical position for taking level readings on vertical or horizontal surfaces. The instrumentation has a gravity-responsive weight pendulum mounted on a knife-edge pivot supported on an edge contact with its pivot. The pendulum has an actuating pivot having two flat sides fixed at an upper end for engaging two knife-edge pivots on a pointer which is actuated laterally by the pendulum proportionately to the extent a surface being read is out of the vertical or horizontal. The pointer is likewise pivotally supported on an edge supported on a supporting knife-edge pivot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 1979
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1980
    Inventor: Chuang-Min Chiou
  • Patent number: 4150492
    Abstract: A precision level is the type that has a level indicating means and is turned end for end to determine the amount one point on which the end of the level rests must be changed in height with respect to a point at the other end of the level to have the points on a horizontal line. A mounting through one end of the main body of the present level positions a conventional differential dial indicator above a foot that is adjustable in height, and the sensing stem of the indicator follows the upper end of the foot to show the amount the points must be changed in height to position the points on a horizontal line. For levels of different lengths, sections for the main body are connected together. Latching assemblies for joining the sections have hook-shaped members mounted on eccentric pins, the pins being rotated to pull the sections tightly together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1978
    Date of Patent: April 24, 1979
    Inventor: Alan C. Tracy
  • Patent number: 4070764
    Abstract: A combination collapsible ruler and level includes a pre-stressed coilable and uncoilable spring strip ruler with a level tube mounting block mounted intermediate the strip ends. The mounting block has a foot portion which engages the supporting surface to make the spring strip self-supporting on a surface with the level tube in the proper plane. When collapsed the spring strip forms two coils which abut adjacent the level mounting block to provide for convenient handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1976
    Date of Patent: January 31, 1978
    Inventor: Daniel P. Rohlinger