Combined With Level Patents (Class 33/451)
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Publication number: 20110138643Abstract: An angle square includes a basic ruler, a pivotal ruler and a light-projecting element. The basic ruler includes a space defined therein. The pivotal ruler is pivotally connected to the basic ruler between an idle position in the space and an active position out of the space. The light-projecting element is connected to the pivotal ruler.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2010Publication date: June 16, 2011Inventor: JIN-YI GAO
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Patent number: 7913406Abstract: A hands-free measuring instrument is disclosed. The disclosed instrument includes an upright member extending perpendicularly from a base member. At least one magnet is affixed to the instrument to facilitate the mounting thereof on a ferrous workpiece. The disclosed instrument includes at least one bubble level disposed thereupon. Graduations may be provided on the instrument to facilitate measurement of linear distances. Embodiments are provided wherein a spring-loaded spike is disposed within the instrument that is adapted to secure the measuring instrument to a workpiece which may be non-ferrous. The spike assembly may be configured to work with commonly used building materials, e.g., wood, drywall, masonry, and sheet metal surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2009Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Inventor: Louis A. Norelli
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Patent number: 7908754Abstract: The Linear Marking Apparatus that which includes an embedded marking substance (chalk) reel during use, allowing a single worker to effectively snap a marking line over the work surface. In various embodiments, the Linear Marking Apparatus the tool can also be utilized as a measuring device, a straight edge, or a level. Potential uses of the Linear Marking Apparatus include marking lines on walls, ground, vehicles, concrete, roofing, floors, window, boats, furnishings, ceilings.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Inventor: Keith Fritsch
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Patent number: 7882643Abstract: A square and leveling tool for measuring exterior and interior corners along buildings, corner posts, rafters, etc. The tool generally includes a first arm having measuring indicia disposed and a second arm having measuring indicia, wherein the second arm is angularly disposed from the first arm to form an approximate 90 degree angle with one another. An exterior corner section is pivotally connected to the first arm and the second arm along adjoining exterior edges, wherein the exterior corner section pivots to define an exterior notch adapted to flushly receive an interior corner for measuring and/or leveling. An interior corner notch is formed within adjoining interior edges of the first arm and the second arm to flushly receive an exterior corner post for measuring and/or leveling adjacent sides along the corner post. The tool may also include a plurality of levels for leveling the tool horizontally, vertically, etc.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2009Date of Patent: February 8, 2011Inventor: Bernard H. Portinen
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Patent number: 7866055Abstract: The present invention provides a level having a body which has a first end, a second end opposed to the first end, and a plane surface which connects the first and second ends, at least one level indicating device mounted to the body, and two end caps which are mounted onto the first and second ends, respectively. Each end cap has an outer end which is distributed by a plurality of resilient portions with small surface area for absorbing impact if the level is accidentally dropped or impacted.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2009Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Chervon LimitedInventors: Yuexiang Zhang, Ming Chen, Jianjun Shuang
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Publication number: 20100269360Abstract: The Linear Marking Apparatus that which includes an embedded marking substance (chalk) reel during use, allowing a single worker to effectively snap a marking line over the work surface. In various embodiments, the Linear Marking Apparatus the tool can also be utilized as a measuring device, a straight edge, or a level. Potential uses of the Linear Marking Apparatus include marking lines on walls, ground, vehicles, concrete, roofing, floors, window, boats, furnishings, ceilings.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2009Publication date: October 28, 2010Inventor: Keith Fritsch
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Patent number: 7814675Abstract: An apparatus for aiding in hanging an object on a wall comprises an elongate horizontal bar having a longitudinal axis and a top surface and at least two holders slideable on the bar along the longitudinal axis. Each of the holders includes at least one projection for holding an object hanger at the desired mounting location while a fastener is used to mount the object hanger on the wall. The assembly may optionally include at least one level mechanism for indicating when the apparatus is level. Positioning at least two of the at least two holders spaced apart from each other on the bar allows for properly positioning and mounting the object hangers held by the projections at the desired locations on the wall.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2008Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Midwest Tool and Die, CorporationInventors: David J. Venderley, David Maberson
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Patent number: 7802372Abstract: A removable laser base for a bubble level that includes a body, a laser beam generator, and a removable securement. The body has a flat top surface that the level is secured to and a bottom surface that is flat and parallel to the top surface. A laser diode mounted in a module emits a visible laser beam upon application of power from a battery that is controlled by a switch. The module, batteries, and switch are mounted in a through bore in the body. The laser base is removably secured to the bubble level by any manner appropriate to the shape of the level. In one such securement, the level has a T-shaped cross-section and the body has a complementary slot into which the level slides. When the level reference surface abuts the top surface of the laser base, a thumb screw is tightened to frictionally secure the level in the base.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Precision Designed Products, Inc.Inventor: Mark L. Silberberg
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Patent number: 7797848Abstract: A folding carpenter's level is disclosed which has two level segments, each of which has a smooth flat top and bottom surface, that are hingeably attached at a distal tip by means of a recessed, flat hinging means. The two level segments can be rotated laterally in the plane of the level so as to be oriented with respect to each other at angles of from 0 to 180 degrees, thus effectively doubling the length of the level. At least one of the level segments has one or more tubular spirit vials attached to the segment for measuring the levelness of the top surface with respect to horizontal. The level segments usually have additional tubular spirit vials oriented vertically to allow the tool to be used to measure plumb. Such tubular spirit vials are generally located in apertures so that the spirit bubble in the vials can be seen from the front or the back of the folding level.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2008Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventors: Stephen Ray Cobb, Corey Keith Dillon, Todd Steven Shipp
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Patent number: 7770298Abstract: An end cap feature for a level includes a frame having a gauging surface and a web which extends at an angle relative to the gauging surface. The web includes a recess adjacent to an end of the frame. The web recess opens onto the end of the web and extends inwardly therefrom. An end member includes a web-receiving such as a slot defined between a pair of side members, each of which is formed with an opening. The web recess and the end member openings are in alignment with each other when the end of the web is received within the web-receiving structure. A retainer member is positioned within the web recess when engaged within the opening of the end member, and the retainer member and web recess are configured such that engagement of the retainer member within the web recess maintains the end member in engagement with the web. Engagement of the retainer member within the opening of the end member prevents movement of the end member relative to the web.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2008Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Johnson Level & Tool Mfg. Co., Inc.Inventors: Timothy J. Wojciechowski, William G. Johnson
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Publication number: 20100155565Abstract: An apparatus for facilitating the affixing of an object to a wall is disclosed. The apparatus includes a vertical first planar element and having front and back sides. The apparatus further includes a horizontal level for horizontally leveling the apparatus and adhesive disposed on the back side of the first planar element for removably affixing the apparatus to the wall horizontally level. The apparatus further includes a second planar element coupled perpendicularly with the first planar element for supporting the object when placed on top of the apparatus and a horizontal lip on an edge of the second planar element, the lip for arresting movement of the object when resting on top of the apparatus. The apparatus further includes a ruler horizontally embedded in the apparatus, the ruler for measuring placement of the object on the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 18, 2008Publication date: June 24, 2010Inventor: Jay Alan Bernstein
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Publication number: 20100115781Abstract: A hands-free measuring instrument is disclosed. The disclosed instrument includes an upright member extending perpendicularly from a base member. At least one magnet is affixed to the instrument to facilitate the mounting thereof on a ferrous workpiece. The disclosed instrument includes at least one bubble level disposed thereupon. Graduations may be provided on the instrument to facilitate measurement of linear distances. Embodiments are provided wherein a spring-loaded spike is disposed within the instrument that is adapted to secure the measuring instrument to a workpiece which may be non-ferrous. The spike assembly may be configured to work with commonly used building materials, e.g., wood, drywall, masonry, and sheet metal surfaces.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: LOUIS A. NORELLI
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Patent number: 7698827Abstract: A bevel setting tool having a rectangular plate, both sides of which are marked with reference indicia and a moveable fence that slides longitudinally on a stud that passes from the fence through a slot centrally located in the plate and into a locking knob. The fence and knob may be disassembled so that the fence can be positioned on either side of the plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Lee Valley Tools, Ltd.Inventors: Robin C. Lee, John S. Pratt, Scott T. Roger
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Patent number: 7690129Abstract: The present invention is an object hanging device, comprising an elongated body and a scale on the elongated body. The elongated body having a middle section. The scale has a zero point that is located within the middle section of the elongated body. The scale includes right measuring units to the right of the zero point and left measuring units to the left of the zero point. The right measuring units and the left measuring units increase away from the zero point.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2008Date of Patent: April 6, 2010Inventor: James Jacob Bender
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Patent number: 7631436Abstract: A spirit level (10) includes a profiled body with lateral surfaces (20, 22), end faces or areas (24, 26), and longitudinal surfaces (28, 30) that form measuring surfaces running between the lateral surfaces, which project laterally over the lateral surfaces with their longitudinal edges (32, 34, 36, 38), as well as at least one position sensor, such as a vial (14, 16, 18). In order to carry out a verification of horizontality or verticality not only in the conventional way, but especially also to assist in maintaining intervals in assembled brickwork, it is proposed to provide a uniform series of indentations (46, 48, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58) within at least one longitudinal edge.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2008Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Stabila Messgerate Gustav Ullrich GmbHInventor: Jürgen Henschel
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Patent number: 7607235Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to tools that are lightweight, high quality, durable, rigid and strong. For example, various tools used to level items and/or as a straight edge for aligning or drawing lines on items may be designed in an improved or augmented I beam style so that they are lightweight, strong, durable and rigid so as to hold their shape under stress or return to their original shape after being stressed. In various exemplary embodiments, the I beam style level and/or straight edge may have a first main elongated side to which two elongated perpendicular sides are connected or coupled. At least one or more higher strength elongated sides, for example a second elongate side, may be comprised of a closed or box shaped side. For example, the second elongated side may be, for example, a box shaped construction.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2008Date of Patent: October 27, 2009Inventor: Michael D. Morrissey
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Publication number: 20090188123Abstract: A positioning scale device includes a main scale body (1), a stationary positioning portion (2), at least a moving positioning portion (3), and at least a direction indicating portion (4). The main scale body (1) has at least a guiding slot (11); the stationary positioning portion (2) being positioned on the main scale body (1) is adjacent to an end of the guiding slot (11); the moving positioning portion (3) being positioned in the guiding slot (11) is capable of fixing at a location of the guiding slot (11); while the direction indicating portion (4) being positioned on the main scale body (1) forms a predetermined angle with respect to the extended direction of the guiding slot (11). By the use of the direction indicating portions (4), one is capable of assuring relationship between the “object to be measured” and the horizontal direction. Therefore, the positioning scale device of the invention is capable of achieving the efficacy of duplicating the same status as that of the “object to be measured”.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 23, 2009Publication date: July 30, 2009Inventor: Feng-Hsiang CHOU
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Patent number: 7562463Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: July 5, 2007Date of Patent: July 21, 2009Inventor: Ed Vaes
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Publication number: 20090165315Abstract: 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. This device enables pictures and other items to be hung on a wall in a simple, quick and easy manner.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 20, 2008Publication date: July 2, 2009Inventor: Jared Rabin
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Patent number: 7536798Abstract: The level with a generally u-shaped or round, rigid frame. The outer surface is comprised of a number of planar reference faces that are at different fixed angles to a spirit vial mounted in the frame. Optionally, magnets are embedded in the reference faces. Optionally, there are grooves in the reference faces.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2007Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Precision Designed Products, Inc.Inventor: Mark L. Silberberg
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Patent number: 7536801Abstract: A laser leveling device as disclosed in the present invention comprises a body and a power source. The body has a cavity for containing a laser module which is movable between a first position and a second position. When in the first position, the laser module is located within the cavity and is not connected to the power source; and when in the second position, the laser module is located outside of the cavity and the laser is electrically connected to the power source to emit a visible laser beam.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2007Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Chervon LimitedInventor: Yuexiang Zhang
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Patent number: 7513055Abstract: A slope level for measuring the slope of a surface is provided. The slope level includes a body having a front face and a back face and defining a first planar measurement surface. A transparent arced tube is disposed in an opening in the body. An aperture in at least one side of the level frame can allow for viewing of an arced tube through a clear cover protecting the tube. The clear cover may comprise a plastic material positioned between the side of the frame and filler material inside the frame and defining the groove, with the portion of the clear cover at the aperture extending outward so that the clear cover is flush with the side of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2007Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Inventor: Matthew C. Montgomery
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Patent number: 7513056Abstract: A level is disclosed with a sliding measurement system. The level includes a planar upper surface, a planar lower surface and a web extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. The web includes at least one elongate channel to which a track having an inwardly facing slot is mounted. The level further includes one or more pods slideably received on the track in the inwardly facing slot. The pod includes a generally cylindrical female member having upper and lower ridges extending outwardly therefrom, and a generally cylindrical male member configured to receive a marking instrument, the male member being matingly received in the female member. The upper and lower ridges of the female member are configured to be received in the inner slot of the track and are slideable thereon. The level further includes at least one bubble level vial mounted to the web of the body of the level.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2007Date of Patent: April 7, 2009Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Robert J. B. Hobden, Gregory Scott Snider
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Patent number: 7509749Abstract: A molded plastic yet structurally rigid tool, such as a level, with a web extending in a generally undulating configuration. The undulating configuration of the web acts to strengthen and make the level more rigid when compared to a level with a planar web. The undulating configuration of the web is substantially symmetrical about the centerline of the level over its entire length, but may also be arranged in a number of non-planar embodiments.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2006Date of Patent: March 31, 2009Assignee: Johnson Level & Tool Mfg. Co., Inc.Inventor: John M. Stefanko
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Patent number: 7503124Abstract: Apparatuses are provided for various tools that incorporate materials with a high coefficient of friction and a low coefficient of friction. The materials with a low coefficient of friction may be mounted on a tool and have a perpendicular movement to the tool. This perpendicular movement may be implemented with a spring mechanism. The materials with a high coefficient of friction may be mounted on the tool in a fixed position. The tool may be pressed against a surface, first engaging the materials with a low coefficient of friction. The tool may freely move across the surface while the materials with a low coefficient of friction maintain contact with the surface. As the tool is continually pressed to the surface, the materials with a high coefficient of friction subsequently make contact with the surface, thereby causing the lateral movement of the tool with respect to the surface to be restricted and stabilized. An example of the tool may be a spirit or carpenter level.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2007Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Robert J. B. Hobden, Gregory Scott Snider, Oleksiy P. Sergyeyenko
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Publication number: 20090064516Abstract: A multi-purpose tool includes a graduated extension pivotably and lockably connected to a leveling extension. The graduated extension includes graduations for measuring length, angles, pitch, or a combination of these measurements. Angles may also be measured with a graduated disc. The leveling extension includes at least one bubble level for checking the horizontal or vertical orientation of the leveling extension. The leveling extension may include graduations for measuring length, angles, pitch, or a combination of these measurements. The tool may be extended such that the graduated and leveling extensions are collinear, having a total length of 16 inches end to end. A multi-purpose tool may be conveniently used to take the place of several separate tools such as a speed square, a T-bevel, and an extended torpedo level. The tool may also allow quick determination of the required distance between wall studs, rafters, and floor joists.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Applicant: Topline Innovations, LLCInventors: Jeffrey Diaz, Geoffrey Diaz
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Patent number: 7484307Abstract: A level is provided that includes a body comprising upper and lower parallel walls and first and second side walls operatively connected with the upper and lower walls. The upper wall has first and second linear edges extending longitudinally along opposite sides and an opening therethrough. The first of the side walls has an opening therethrough such that the opening in the upper wall and the opening in the first side wall are contiguous with one another. The first linear edge is disposed at the operative connection between the upper wall and the second side wall and extends uninterruptedly from end to end of the body. A bubble vial is disposed in the body and is visible through the opening in the upper wall and through the opening in the first side wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 3, 2009Assignee: The Stanley WorksInventor: Rachel Abrecht
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Publication number: 20090013546Abstract: A hand-held level and plumb tool that includes a homogeneous, L-shaped body, a first level indicating device, and a second level indicating device. The L-shaped body has first and second legs arranged at a 90° angle. The first leg defines an interior side, an exterior side, a central panel extending between the sides, and a length in extension of the first leg from the second leg to a free end. A slot is formed through a thickness of the central panel and extends along at least a majority of the length. The first level indicating device is assembled to the central panel of the first leg at a location spaced from the slot. The second level indicating device is assembled to the second leg. One or both of the legs can include measurement-related indicia selected in accordance with staircase construction standard dimensions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2008Publication date: January 15, 2009Applicant: SLK Development Group, LLCInventors: Stephannie Keller, Judith A. Beard, Lori A. Ebner, Peter S. Keller, Lawrence J. Paul
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Patent number: 7409772Abstract: The present invention is directed generally to tools that are lightweight, high quality, durable, rigid and strong. For example, various tools used to level items and/or as a straight edge for aligning or drawing lines on items may be designed in an improved or augmented I beam style so that they are lightweight, strong, durable and rigid so as to hold their shape under stress or return to their original shape after being stressed. In various exemplary embodiments, the I beam style level and/or straight edge may have a first main elongated side to which two elongated perpendicular sides are connected or coupled. At least one or more higher strength elongated sides, for example a second elongate side, may be comprised of a closed or box shaped side. For example, the second elongated side may be, for example, a box shaped construction.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: August 12, 2008Inventor: Michael D. Morrissey
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Publication number: 20080155844Abstract: The present invention provides a slope measuring device for measuring the underlying sloped surface the device including a substantially planar surface having at least one circular opening with a graduated scale received within the circular opening, a pendulum placed between two spaced apart panels, one of which optionally including the scale. The pendulum generally includes a shaft extending laterally between the spaced panels with a pair of spacers received by the shaft at the shaft midsection with a wire extending downwardly from the shaft between the spacers and terminating at a weighted member having a pointed marker with pointed end, the pointed marker being generally adapted for placement along the graduated scale, the pointed end being associated with the measuring indicia for measuring the slope of the underlying sloped surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2006Publication date: July 3, 2008Inventor: Jim B. Norvell
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Patent number: 7363719Abstract: A pocket level having a detachable line level whose bubble vial doubles as the pocket level's horizontal bubble vial, and an angle finder for enabling the determination of the angle of an inclined surface which includes a bubble vial housed in a wheel rim directly rotated by a user applying a rotation force to a portion of its exterior non-slip circumferential wheel rim surface preferably accessible via a throughgoing cutout formed in the pocket level's upper surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2003Date of Patent: April 29, 2008Assignee: Kapro Industries, LtdInventors: Amy Levinson, Gabriel Kohner
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Patent number: 7360316Abstract: The level of the invention consists of a solid, thin central web that is connected to an upper box and a lower box. The central web supports level vials. The upper box and lower box have a hollow generally polygonal shape and define an upper surface and lower surface. A surface of either or both of the upper and lower boxes are calibrated with respect to the level vials to create leveling surfaces. The level vials are enclosed in housings that secure the level vials to the web. End caps are secured to the ends of the web and the upper and lower boxes.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2005Date of Patent: April 22, 2008Assignee: Irwin Industrial Tool CompanyInventors: Brandon C. Hoover, Daniel R. Seymour, Eric John Helda
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Publication number: 20080086901Abstract: A level is provided that includes a body comprising upper and lower parallel walls and first and second side walls operatively connected with the upper and lower walls. The upper wall has first and second linear edges extending longitudinally along opposite sides and an opening therethrough. The first of the side walls has an opening therethrough such that the opening in the upper wall and the opening in the first side wall are contiguous with one another. The first linear edge is disposed at the operative connection between the upper wall and the second side wall and extends uninterruptedly from end to end of the body. A bubble vial is disposed in the body and is visible through the opening in the upper wall and through the opening in the first side wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 16, 2006Publication date: April 17, 2008Applicant: THE STANLEY WORKSInventor: Rachel Abrecht
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Patent number: 7340841Abstract: A slope level for measuring the slope of a surface is provided. The slope level includes a body having a front face and a back face and defining a first planar measurement surface. A transparent arced tube is disposed on the body. The arced tube has a first end and a second end and defines a pinnacle point between the first end and the second end. The arced tube defines an inner space having a slope indicator disposed therein. The slope indicator is movable within the inner space. A template is positioned proximal to the arced tube. The template includes measurement indicia disposed thereon to indicate the measurement of the slope based on the position of the slope indicator within the inner space of the arced tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Matthew C. Montogmery
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Patent number: 7316074Abstract: A level having a body with first and second operative walls interconnected by a web. The first wall having a first exterior operative surface and the second wall having a second exterior operative surface. The first surface and the second surface facing in opposite directions and being generally parallel to one another and the first exterior operative surface having an opening. The body further comprising a stop structure disposed between the operative walls. The level also including a level vial carried by the body and a magnet disposed in the opening and having one end abutting the stop structure. The magnet having an opposite end adjacent the first exterior operative surface for magnetically attracting a workpiece engaged with the first exterior operative surface. Another embodiment of a level includes a reinforcing wall disposed closer to the first operative wall than the second operative wall, with the reinforcing wall cooperating with the first operative wall to generally define a cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2007Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: The Stanley WorksInventors: Tho D. Tran, Joseph Martone
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Patent number: 7302763Abstract: An adjustable jig includes rigidly formed arms that have rectilinear shapes provided with opposite edges, an elongated central opening formed therein and opposed ends abutted with adjacent arm ends. Fasteners are interfitted within the arm openings such that the arms become statically affixed to each other and are detachable from associated ones of the openings. Each fastener includes a tri-lobed nut that has a threaded bottom end. A cap is conjoined to the threaded bottom end and has an outwardly beveled perimeter converging upwardly towards a bottom surface of one of the arms. Each arm has two of the fasteners interfitted through the opening associated therewith. A level gauge is included for establishing a horizontal plane along one arm and is releasably conjoined to a top surface of one arm and positioned at an interior edge thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Mark A. Matthews
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Patent number: 7299560Abstract: A multi-purpose tool includes a graduated extension pivotably and lockably connected to a leveling extension. The graduated extension includes graduations for measuring length, angles, pitch, or a combination of these measurements. Angles may also be measured with a graduated disc. The leveling extension includes at least one bubble level for checking the horizontal or vertical orientation of the leveling extension. The leveling extension may include graduations for measuring length, angles, pitch, or a combination of these measurements. The tool may be extended such that the graduated and leveling extensions are collinear, having a total length of 16 inches end to end. A multi-purpose tool may be conveniently used to take the place of several separate tools such as a speed square, a T-bevel, and an extended torpedo level. The tool may also allow quick determination of the required distance between wall studs, rafters, and floor joists.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Topline Innovarions, LLCInventors: Jeffrey Diaz, Geoffrey Diaz
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Patent number: 7281335Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Inventor: Pedro Feliciano
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Patent number: 7243436Abstract: A t-bevel plumb tool configured for identifying and placing a plumb line has the components typical of a t-bevel, namely a handle and a blade that pivotally attaches to the handle, and a plumb indicator that, in one embodiment, removably attaches to one end of the blade. In this embodiment, a locking mechanism secures the blade to the first end of the handle and a plumb locking member attaches the plumb indicator to the second end of the blade during use as a plumb tool. When the plumb indicator is not being used for finding a plumb line, it attaches to an extension member at the second end of the handle. In another embodiment, the plumb indicator is incorporated into the locking mechanism that secures the blade relative to the handle and a separate level indicator is also incorporated into the handle.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2006Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Inventors: David Patrick Casner, Daniel Bernard Casner
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Patent number: 7228637Abstract: An impact-absorbing end cap for an instrument such as a level is provided that is secured to an end of the level and has an outer portion and an intermediate portion. The intermediate portion is positioned between the outer portion and the body of the level and is securely fastened to the outer portion. In addition, the intermediate portion provides greater resilient compressibility than the outer portion so that the end cap is better adapted to absorb impacts to the outer portion and thereby prevent damage to the level. Preferably, the outer portion has a profile matching the body profile at the end of the level and the intermediate portion forms a serrated intermediate profile to facilitate compression of the end cap. Also preferred is where the end cap includes an inner portion with less resilient compressibility than the intermediate portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Empire Level Mfg. Corp.Inventor: Charles Kim
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Patent number: 7204030Abstract: The present invention has a body with front and back surfaces, top and bottom sides, and two opposed ends. A display panel is on the front of the body. A processor is housed within the body. A dial can be connected to the front end of the body. The dial can have a head with an opening therein for allowing a laser beam to be projected from the head. A grid can be on the head for manually determining the angle between the longitudinal axis of the body and the head. The processor can electronically determine the angle between the longitudinal axis of the body and the head. The head can project forward from the front surface of the body. A side of the body can abut the side of a piece of material to be cut. A laser line can then be projected onto the material surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Inventor: David A. Kattar
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Patent number: 7204029Abstract: A level having a body with first and second operative walls interconnected by a web. The first wall having a first exterior operative surface and the second wall having a second exterior operative surface. The first surface and the second surface facing in opposite directions and being generally parallel to one another and the first exterior operative surface having an opening. The body further comprising a stop structure disposed between the operative walls. The level also including a level vial carried by the body and a magnet disposed in the opening and having one end abutting the stop structure. The magnet having an opposite end adjacent the first exterior operative surface for magnetically attracting a workpiece engaged with the first exterior operative surface. Another embodiment of a level includes a reinforcing wall disposed closer to the first operative wall than the second operative wall, with the reinforcing wall cooperating with the first operative wall to generally define a cavity.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: The Stanley WorksInventors: Tho Tran, Joseph Martone
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Patent number: 7171755Abstract: A level designed for use in hanging pictures is disclosed. The level is proportioned to be easy and convenient to use in conjunction with a picture frame, having a pair of perpendicular legs that can rest on a corner of a picture frame and a level vial positioned within one of the legs. The level can be used to help guide the mounting of a frame on the wall or may be used to check the placement of an already-mounted frame and adjust the frame as needed.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Inventors: Richard Arent, Dennis Wordell
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Patent number: 7155840Abstract: A device for easy positioning, leveling, marking and hanging of all types of pictures, sconces, decorative shelves, mirrors, and other devices to be mounted on a support surface. It has elongated vertical and horizontal support members attached together, each preferably with resilient legs. The vertical support has a handle at one end, a surface rest at its other end, and a rotatable sliding level. Sliding hook clips are positioned along the horizontal support, each having a front hook for holding an item to be hung while positioning and marking with an opposed marking implement take place. One or more hook clips can be used simultaneously. Flexing or compression of legs, soft pads, vertical support member, and/or horizontal support member reduces the wall stand-off distance of the device and causes the aligned marking implements to contact and mark the wall exactly where the held item should be permanently mounted.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Gregory S. Carbonaro
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Patent number: 7150106Abstract: A water or spirit level is composed of an elongated body, preferably of metal, at least one bubble mounted in the elongated body, and end caps, preferably of plastics material, at the end faces of the elongated body, wherein at least one outer surface of the elongated body constitutes a preferred measuring surface. At least one of the end caps is releasably connected to the level body such that the end cap can optionally be removed and once again replaced.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Stabila-Messgeräte Gustav Ullrich GmbHInventors: Gabriel Kallabis, Wolfgang Schaefer
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Patent number: 7150107Abstract: A level and a method of forming such a level are disclosed. The level comprises a body having a measuring surface and a recess, a vial positioned in the recess at an angular relationship to the measuring surface, and a ring member enclosing the vial within the recess, the ring member engaging the vial and the body and fastened to the body, the ring member having a beveled edge forming a funnel-shaped surface defining slope lines, the slope lines intersecting the vial, whereby the vial is protected by the level and ring member while visibility of the vial is enhanced. The method comprises providing a level with a recess and a measuring surface, positioning the vial in the recess at an angular relationship to the measuring surface, and enclosing the vial within the recess with a ring member, the ring member having beveled edges forming a funnel-shaped surface.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2004Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Empire Level Mfg. Corp.Inventor: Charles D. Kim
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Patent number: 7117608Abstract: A spirit level comprising a body having a level face for setting a surface, at least one bubble vial mounted in the body, the bubble vial having a longitudinal axis generally perpendicular to the level face, and an optical transfer element fixed to the body which transfers an image of the bubble vial to a viewing plane generally parallel to the level face.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2004Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: Kapro Industries Ltd.Inventors: Duane William Zugel, Emanuel Szumer
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Patent number: 7117606Abstract: A leveling tool having: a body, including a first face and an opposite second face, the first and second faces defining a thickness between them, the body defining a first side surface, a second side surface opposite said first side surface, a first end surface, and a second end surface substantially opposite said first end surface; at least one level indicator disposed within the thickness; and a clip removably attachable to each of the first and second faces.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2004Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Inventor: David A. Brown
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Patent number: 7089676Abstract: A level is provided with magnets spaced along the length of the level. The magnets function to secure the level to objects such as metal studs, metal beams, metal doorframes and the like when adjusting the attitude of such objects. A spring assembly is provided for each magnet. The spring assembly functions to absorb vibrations released through the object when the object is moved or jostled. The absorption of vibrations allows the magnet to remain in place for a secure attachment to the object.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2004Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Sigifredo Godinez
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Patent number: 7073270Abstract: An impact-absorbing level is disclosed. The level comprises a body including a level face for measuring a surface, a vial mounted in the body at a predetermined angular relationship to the level face, and a first end cap fixed with respect to the first end, the first end cap comprising an outer layer and an intermediate layer, the intermediate layer fixed to the outer layer and having lower density than the outer layer, the intermediate layer positioned between the outer layer and the body, such that the first end cap absorbs impacts to the outer layer to prevent damage to the body. Also disclosed is a method of providing impact-absorption to a level in which a dual-density end cap is adhered to each end of the level.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2004Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Assignee: Empire Level Mfg. Corp.Inventor: Charles D. Kim