Exstensible-rule Type Patents (Class 33/809)
  • Patent number: 11639851
    Abstract: A leveling rod attachment including a first telescopic assembly, a second telescopic assembly and a clamper assembly is disclosed herein. The first telescopic assembly includes vertical rods being slidably connected one to each other. Each of the vertical rods has measurement indicia. The second telescopic assembly includes horizontal rods being slidably connected one to each other. Each of the horizontal rods has measurement indicia. One of the horizontal rods has a bubble level mounted thereon. the clamper assembly includes a clamper and latches. The clamper is attached to the second telescopic assembly. The damper slidably mounts the second telescopic assembly to the first telescopic assembly. The latches secure length of the first telescopic assembly and length of the second telescopic assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2023
    Inventors: Kevin Holder, Aaron Robertson
  • Patent number: 11633655
    Abstract: A swing aid is provided, comprising: a support member, having an elongated shape with a first end and a second end; a first assembly, comprising a first shell and a second shell, the first shell and the second shell being pivotally connected to the first end, the first shell and the second shell being rotatable around the first end to adjust included angles with respect to the support member, respectively; a second assembly, comprising a first indicator and a second indicator, and the first indicator and the second indicator being pivotally connected to the second end, the first indicator and the second indicator being rotatable around the second end to adjust the included angles with respect to the support member, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2023
    Inventor: Eagle Fan
  • Patent number: 11576293
    Abstract: A calibration block provides a deck with a slot for receiving a first plate for supporting a distal end of the planter unit when setting its gauge wheels, whereby the first plate is flush with the deck at a predefine distance from the soil. The calibration block also provides a gauge block and associated second plate for increasing the predefined distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Blake Paul Patton
  • Patent number: 10866077
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring tool includes an elongated tool body and an extensible portion slidably positionable within the tool body and extensible through an open end. A thin tab extends downwardly from a front body face and has flat front and rear surfaces for alignment with edges of materials to be measured or marked. In embodiments, a backset gauge extends forwardly from the tool body, for measuring or marking backsets such as for grout or mortar. The extensible portion, tool body, or backset gauge may include measuring indicia. Another embodiment includes an adjustable angle attachment having two arms continuously rotatable about a central pivot point, for precisely measuring angles or squaring the tool to an angled surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Inventor: Charles E. Dolejs, III
  • Patent number: 10612922
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a spirit level (10) comprising a base body (12) with a first measuring sole (52) and a runner element (14) with a second measuring sole (54), being connected to the latter and able to move relative to it in its longitudinal direction, wherein the first and the second measuring sole run at the same level. In order to accomplish a low-friction displacement, it is provided that a first sliding element (26) emerges from the base body (12), which interacts by form fitting with the runner element (14) for a section and applies force to it in or approximately in the normal direction of the measuring soles (52, 54), and a second sliding element (28) emerges from the runner, which interacts by form fitting with the base body for a section and applies force to the runner element in or approximately in the direction of the measuring soles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2020
    Assignee: STABILA MESSGERĂ„TE GUSTAV ULLRICH GMBH
    Inventors: Gabriel Kallabis, Thorsten Setzer
  • Patent number: 10029386
    Abstract: A power tool in one embodiment includes a work-piece support surface, a swing arm assembly movable along a swing path between a first swing arm position whereat a portion of a shaping device supported by the swing arm assembly extends above the work-piece support surface and a second swing arm position whereat the portion of the shaping device does not extend above the work-piece support surface, a latch pin pivotable between a first position engaged with the swing arm assembly and a second position whereat the latch is not engaged with the swing arm assembly, an actuator configured to pivot the latch pin from the first position to the second position and to force the swing arm assembly away from the first swing arm position and toward the second swing arm position, and a control system configured to actuate the actuator in response to a sensed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignees: Robert Bosch Tool Corporation, Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Brian Hyuk Joon Chung, Brady J. Groth, Stephen C. Oberheim
  • Patent number: 9671208
    Abstract: An improvement in the process of pillow selection is described, allowing customers to select a pillow that is appropriate for them in a less random manner. First, a method of selecting a pillow for a user is disclosed, comprising the steps of locating the user with a shoulder thereof adjacent a flat rigid surface, orienting the user substantially transverse to the surface, measuring a spacing between the surface and a proximate side of the user's head, and selecting at least one pillow from a group of pillows, based on the measured spacing. The rigid surface is ideally upright, such as a wall. The group of pillows can be divided into a plurality of sub-groups, each sub-group containing a plurality of pillows with substantially like thickness. Thus, based on the reading, the user can be invited to choose any pillow from a specific group or range of pillows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: Kulwinder Bajwa
  • Patent number: 9517554
    Abstract: A hammer having a hallowed handle to house a telescopic rod that uses a magnetic member to retrieve metal-based objects that may have fallen away from a user or fallen into a hard to reach space. This improvement can be used with hammers having nail-extracting claws opposite their face or peen-style hammers. In an alternate embodiment, the improvement can be used with claws that have nail-extracting slits at their distal ends to extract nails that are in locations too difficult to reach with conventional claws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Inventors: Leonardo Marin, Jacquelin Marin
  • Patent number: 9116026
    Abstract: A measuring device that has an upper guide movably engaged with a lower guide. The upper guide is extendable relative to the lower guide in a first direction along a first axis, and retractable relative to the lower guide in a second direction along the first axis. The upper guide and lower guide form a straightedge that is adjustable. The measuring device includes one or more rulers and levels. A locking mechanism operatively engages with the upper guide and lower guide. The locking mechanism is configured to lock and maintain a position of the upper guide relative to the lower guide and unlock to allow extension and retraction of the upper guide relative to the lower guide. The units of rulers on the upper guide can increase along the second direction, and the units of the rulers on the lower guide can increase along the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventor: Paul Albert Parker
  • Patent number: 9003672
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a combination roof top solar installation tool, and more particularly, to a tool for measuring, securing, and supporting solar installation equipment to allow for quick, safe, consistent, and efficient installations. The tool may include a first housing, a second housing, and third housing that fit telescopically together and are secured through a clip locking mechanism that extends the housings when released via a clip and roller system. The tool has ruling etched along the top of the housings, a level, and also has a series of ratchet heads for tightening and loosening tools on a roof. The invention may include a series of seam clamp holes along the surface of the housings, which receive a seam clamp. The invention may also have an elongating device secured onto one of the housings, which is used for measuring distances beyond the length of the installation tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Rodolfo Lozano, IV
  • Patent number: 8966779
    Abstract: An ambidextrous vernier caliper includes a main ruler and a vernier having a slide channel in which the main ruler is inserted. As each of the front and back sides of the main ruler has a graduated layer, and each of the front and back sides of the vernier has a scaled layer, the vernier caliper is convenient to use by left-handed as well as right-handed people.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Tec One International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Heng-Xiang Zhang, Ke-Qian Wu, Zhe-Yan Pan
  • Patent number: 8959786
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring pedal distances within a vehicle. The apparatus includes a first block for engaging an accelerator pedal. The first block includes a first receptacle for receiving a first measurement device and a second receptacle including slidable and rotatable engagement for receiving a second measurement device. The first measurement device measures pedal stroke and the second measurement device measures distance. The apparatus further includes a second block for engaging a brake pedal. The second block includes a receptacle including slidable engagement for receiving a third measurement device. The third measurement device measures distance, either between pedals or between a pedal and a reference surface in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob Seth Kononiuk
  • Patent number: 8875408
    Abstract: A measuring staff (10) has a upper section (11) including a first elongated member (12) which can carry in a fixed position therealong a laser detector of a laser leveling system or a sighting marker of an optical measuring system, and a second elongated member (13) telescopically extendable and retractable relative to the first member (12), a graduated scale (18) on the first member (13) and a pointer (17) on the second member which indicates the extension or retraction of the second member (13) relative to the first member (12), a spring (20) for urging the second member (13) outwardly from the first member (11), the second member (13) being selectively lockable to the first member, and an extension section (14,15) at the lower end of the upper section and extendable therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Steffco Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Bevan Gordon Steffensen
  • Patent number: 8875411
    Abstract: The cylindrical ruler is an elongated, hollow, cylindrical tube of known diameter having an axial slit extending the length of the tube. Indicia defining a circumferential scale are disposed around one end of the tube for measuring the length of an arc. Indicia defining a ruled scale extend lengthwise down the tube adjacent the slit for measuring length and width. Since the tube has a known diameter, it may be used to measure the inner or outer diameter of a pipe, the outer diameter or radius of curvature of a cylindrical lens, etc. The tube may also be used as a drawing tool to draw arcs, circles, or rectilinear lines on a cylindrical object. Preferably, the cylindrical ruler is furnished as a plurality of cylindrical tubes of progressively increasing diameter that can telescope within each other for storage and transport in a protective case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Turki Awwad Al-Dhafiri
  • Patent number: 8763269
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring a bicycle seating position. A telescoping rod includes a pinch closure, with contact points to attach to a pedal, a saddle, and a handlebar/stem. The telescoping rod includes a larger diameter rod with a small diameter rod that can slide into the larger diameter rod, thereby allowing the inner rod to move freely up or down to account for differing distances being measured. The smaller diameter rod can include a measuring scale to allow a user to read a measurement from one point to another, allowing for the measurement to be repeated. With the pinch closure, a user could take a measurement on one bicycle, carry it over to another bicycle and set a position on the second bicycle identical to that of the first bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Charles E. Buckland
  • Patent number: 8701304
    Abstract: A tool measures the vertical distance and lateral distance between a brake pedal pad and an accelerator pedal pad. A base plate lies atop the brake pedal pad. A first measuring plate is mounted on the base plate for movement laterally toward and away from the accelerator pedal pad. A second measuring plate is mounted on the first measuring plate for movement laterally with the first measuring plate to engage a lateral edge of the accelerator pedal pad and for movement vertically to engage with a top surface of the accelerator pedal pad. First measuring indicia provided on the base plate and the first measuring plate reads the lateral distance between the brake pedal pad and the accelerator pedal pad. And a second measuring indicia provided on the first measuring plate and the second measuring plate reads the vertical height between the brake pedal pad and the accelerator pedal pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Robert J Conley, Thomas Derocher, Alan J. Calder, Thomas A. Brock
  • Patent number: 8640352
    Abstract: A superior measuring system comprises three sidewinders and a cobra measure which allows the users to take inside measurement with the assistance for one else. Sidewinders are use to measure distance between 2? to 23? and comprise a casing, an upper blade, and a bottom blade. The cobra measure comprises a main body, a single blade and a hood. The sidewinders have three extending blades which extend from the front and the back sides. The both blades can be locked from a locking mechanism so the blades do not move freely. The cobra measure comprises an angle control which control the angle that the single blade so accurate measurements. The single blade in the cobra measure is a curved shaped blade which provides better stability when measurements are taken.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventors: Fedele Anthony Porreca, Paul Vincent Porreca
  • Publication number: 20130227854
    Abstract: An ambidextrous vernier caliper includes a main ruler and a vernier having a slide channel in which the main ruler is inserted. As each of the front and back sides of the main ruler has a graduated layer, and each of the front and back sides of the vernier has a scaled layer, the vernier caliper is convenient to use by left-handed as well as right-handed people.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: TEC ONE INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Heng-Xiang ZHANG, Ke-Qian WU, Zhe-Yan PAN
  • Patent number: 8326411
    Abstract: A trunk width measuring unit including a first contact portion attached movably in the vertical direction relative to a unit main body, the first contact portion to be brought into contact with an upper surface of a trunk of a subject, second and third contact portions attached movably in the horizontal direction relative to the unit main body, a vertical width detection encoder for detecting a lowering distance of the first contact portion from an original position on the upper side of the trunk of the user to a contact point with the upper surface of the trunk, and a horizontal width detection encoder attached movably in the horizontal direction relative to the unit main body by the same distance as a moving distance of the second contact portion, the horizontal width detection encoder detecting a moving distance of the third contact portion relative to the second contact portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Assignee: Omron Healthcare Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiromichi Karo, Takehiro Hamaguchi, Tomoya Ijiri, Yasuaki Murakawa, Shojiro Oku
  • Patent number: 8201340
    Abstract: A measuring staff (10) having a upper section (11) comprising a first elongated member (12) which can carry in a fixed position therealong a laser detector of a laser levelling system or a sighting marker of an optical measuring system, and a second elongated member (13) telescopically extendable and retractable relative to the first member (12), a graduated scale (18) on the first member (13) and a pointer (17) on the second member which indicates the extension or retraction of the second member (13) relative to the first member (12), a spring (20) for urging the second member (13) outwardly from the first member (11), the second member (13) being selectively lockable to the first member, and an extension section (14,15) at the lower end of the upper section and extendable therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Steffco Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Bevan Gordon Steffensen
  • Patent number: 8127454
    Abstract: A rod cutter and method of measuring rod length and then cutting, and including two telescoping handles operable with only longitudinal force on the handles. The cutting precision is effective by a gauge that aligns with the cutting line on the rod and then positions the rod in the cutter according to that alignment. Storage for the gauge is provided on the cutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Bradshaw Medical, Inc.
    Inventor: Hua Gao
  • Patent number: 8046929
    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: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Stretch Level, LLC
    Inventor: Frank T. Yowonske
  • Patent number: 8024866
    Abstract: A height recording system includes a telescopic rule formed from a head and a telescopic assembly used to vary a distance between one support end forming a base for the telescopic assembly and an upper end supporting the head. The height recording system comprises: a measurement system that measures the distance; a receiver including photosensitive cell(s) to detect an optical beam output from a laser system; a module starts or validates a height measurement by the measurement system starting the measurement or the validation in response to the module receiving a determined signal from the receiver; the determined signal being representative of the laser beam being detected by one of the photosensitive cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Agatec
    Inventors: Dimitru Mircea Chiorean, Zoltan Keresztes, Albert Gamal
  • Patent number: 8015723
    Abstract: A height measuring device and method of measuring height are disclosed. The device includes a first rod having a first opening through a first end of the first rod. The device also includes a second rod having a first opening through a first end of the second rod. The device further includes a first fastener positioned in the first opening of the first rod and the first opening of the second rod. The first fastener engages the first rod and the second rod. In one embodiment each rod includes a shrinkwrap sleeve having measurement markings thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Inventor: Charles G. Solomon
  • Patent number: 7971367
    Abstract: A distance-transferring device comprising a plurality of interconnected rails. Each rail, when extended, is self-supporting. Once the rails are extended and locked in place between two points, two planes, or one point and one plane, an accurate representation of a distance between the two points, two planes or one point and one plane is obtained. This distance can be transferred to another location without having to memorize a numerical measurement. Opposing abutting angled ends provide for both easy access into corners and a clear visual for when the abutting angled end contacts a plane or mark. A rotating component allows for operating the invention in more than one plane. A movable catch hooks onto an object such as wood moldings to facilitate the measurement transfer without adding any error to the distance being transferred. Extension stops prevent the rails from longitudinal separation. Bubble vials are provided for leveling both horizontally and vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart René Stengel, Jason Chartes Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7874080
    Abstract: A measuring device has a first elongate body element, a second elongate body element, and an elongate ruler element. The first and second elongate body elements slidably engage each other, and the elongate ruler element is slidably engaged adjacent the first elongate body element. A plurality of ruler markings on the elongate ruler element enable measuring the sag of a vehicle. A partial-fastening element fastens the elongate ruler element to the first elongate body element. A body fastening clip is attached to a top end of the first elongate body element for removably engaging a body of the vehicle. A hub engagement post is attached to the second elongate body element for removably engaging a hub of the vehicle. A method of using the measuring device to measure the sag of the vehicle is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Morales
  • Patent number: 7793421
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for drawing an instrument across a curve in a surface for constructing an arch. The apparatus comprises a base member having a pivot and a plurality of first indicators and a slidable member having a plurality of second indicators. The slidable member is slidably positionable on the base member. The method comprises pivotably securing the base member to a surface, selecting one of the plurality of first indicators corresponding to the chord height and selecting one of the plurality of second indicators representing the chord height and length of the arch to be scribed. The method further comprises aligning the first and second selected indicators, and rotating the apparatus about the pivot hole so as to draw across an instrument located at a distal end of the slidable member across an arc so as to define the arch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Derek Hardy
  • Patent number: 7707737
    Abstract: A three dimensional measuring device including: a first retractable member for measuring in a first dimension, a second retractable member for measuring in a second dimension, and a third retractable member for measuring in a third dimension. Each of the retractable members is configured to angularly pivot relative to any of the other retractable members thereby rendering a recordable angular measurement. The three dimensional measuring device is adapted to accurately measure the size of three dimensional objects. The three dimensional measuring device is also capable of rendering a three dimensional representation of the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Caren Michele Davis Lightfoot
  • Publication number: 20090272000
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for drawing an instrument across a curve in a surface for constructing an arch. The apparatus comprises a base member having a pivot and a plurality of first indicators and a slidable member having a plurality of second indicators. The slidable member is slidably positionable on the base member. The method comprises pivotably securing the base member to a surface, selecting one of the plurality of first indicators corresponding to the chord height and selecting one of the plurality of second indicators representing the chord height and length of the arch to be scribed. The method further comprises aligning the first and second selected indicators, and rotating the apparatus about the pivot hole so as to draw across an instrument located at a distal end of the slidable member across an arc so as to define the arch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Inventor: Derek Hardy
  • Patent number: 7574806
    Abstract: An adjustment structure of garden shears, which utilizes an aligning lever disposed on the outer surface of an outer tube to support a protruding block; because the protruding block can be fitted into a trough on the outer surface of the inner tube and become secured, the inner tube and the outer tube become fastened together as a result. Moreover, a marked unit is disposed where said inner tube and outer tube are joined, thereby allowing the invention to have a structurally simple handle that can be aligned effectively, which in turn allows users to grasp the precision in the movement between said inner tube and outer tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Inventor: Kuang-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20090178292
    Abstract: A distance-transferring device comprising a plurality of interconnected rails. Each rail, when extended, is self-supporting. Once the rails are extended and locked in place between two points, two planes, or one point and one plane, an accurate representation of a distance between the two points, two planes or one point and one plane is obtained. This distance can be transferred to another location without having to memorize a numerical measurement. Opposing abutting angled ends provide for both easy access into corners and a clear visual for when the abutting angled end contacts a plane or mark. A rotating component allows for operating the invention in more than one plane. A movable catch hooks onto an object such as wood moldings to facilitate the measurement transfer without adding any error to the distance being transferred. Extension stops prevent the rails from longitudinal separation. Bubble vials are provided for leveling both horizontally and vertically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Stuart Rene Stengel, Jason Chartes Gonzalez
  • 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: 7204031
    Abstract: The telescoping T-square has a crossbar or cross-member and an extendable shaft or leg. The cross-member is a relatively short bar having a pair of parallel runners longitudinally extending across the length of one surface of the bar and a slot defined through the bar between the runners that extends from the center of the bar laterally towards one of the ends of the bar. The leg has a tubular, hollow proximal rod removably attached to the cross-member, and at least one telescoping distal rod slidably disposed in the proximal rod, with detent buttons locking the rods together at selected intervals. One end of the proximal rod has transverse grooves or channels defined therein slidably receiving the runners and a threaded stud extending therefrom that is slidable in the slot defined in the cross-member. A knob engages the stud to temporarily lock the cross-member and leg in fixed relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Inventor: Craig A. Hanson
  • Patent number: 6919517
    Abstract: A beam scale for measurement of body weight and height according to the present invention includes a frame and a weighing mechanism. The frame includes a base assembly, a pillar assembly, and a horn assembly. The weighing mechanism is housed within the frame and includes a beam, weights, and a lever assembly. The horn assembly may include a transparent holding bracket having a level indicator. The scale may include a height measurement assembly having a height rod, a sheath supported by the horn assembly and the pillar assembly, a measuring arm, and a transparent height-measuring window having a line indicator. The frame may include a quick assembly mechanism to secure the pillar assembly to the base assembly during final assembly, quiet wheels for transport, and/or handle bars to support the user. Much of the frame may be made of pigmented thermoplastic or thermoset materials to reduce manufacturing costs and scale weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Pelstar, L.L.C.
    Inventors: James G. Montagnino, Anson Wong, Ricardo Murguia, Shawn Barrett, Curtis L. Cruver, IV
  • Patent number: 6915585
    Abstract: A spirit level including first and second profile elements which can be displaced relative to one another in a telescopic manner and fixed relative to one another by means of a fixing element. In order to ensure that the first and second profile elements remain aligned with each other irrespective of their position, the first profile element is a hollow profile consisting of two sections which can be joined by means of the second profile element. The first section is joined to the second profile element and the second section can be moved along the remaining area of the second profile element. When the second profile element is at least partially uncovered by the second section, the second profile element can be subjected to the action of force in the direction of a profile wall of the second section of the first profile element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: STABILA Messgerate Gustav Ullrich GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Von Wedemeyer
  • Patent number: 6907671
    Abstract: The present invention provides a measurement apparatus particularly suited for layout work. More specifically, the present invention is useful for taking a single measurement of a span or object, dividing the measured length into a desired number of equal segments, and providing indicators for marking those points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Edward Lloyd Conner
  • Patent number: 6860029
    Abstract: An alignment tool for adjustably positioning a boring bar relative to a spaced apart fixed location on a structural member including an elongated bar formed of a plurality of axially aligned and separable tubular members and having its opposite ends mounted to the boring bar and the fixed location, respectively. The length of the bar, hence the distance between the boring bar and the fixed location is adjustably selectable by means of telescopically mounted one of the tubular members. A first one of the tubular members receives therein a second one of the tubular members employing a thread interconnection whereby rotational movement of one tubular member relative to the other provides selection of the overall length of the tool. Multiple indicia associated with the outer circumference of each of the threadably interconnected tubular members provide a visual indication of the extent of the insertion of said second tubular member within said first tubular member, hence the overall length of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Inventor: George C. Haynes
  • Patent number: 6836969
    Abstract: A hand held device for making measured markings. The device comprises a body having a bottom and a side surface with a butting surface connected to the body having a flat face perpendicular to the body to slidably butt against an edge of a work piece. A plurality of spaced guiding wells adjacent the side surface may receive a marking instrument point. The guiding wells simultaneously provide measurement and guidance for the marking instrument while the butting surface is slid along the edge of a work piece. A telescoping member having a flat top edge provides adjustable guidance for marking instrument as well. Reference markings on the telescoping member mark distance from the edge of the telescoping member to the butting surface. A fixing means may adjustably fix the relationship between the telescoping member and the body. The telescoping member is extendable to distance shown by the reference markings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Randy N. Bates
  • Patent number: 6820342
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring and marking device is provided. The device has a lower portion with a bottom end and an upper end and an upper portion with a bottom end and an upper end. The upper portion telescopically interconnects with the lower portion. Measurement intervals, such as inches, are marked along the upper and lower sections so that one can use the device as a measuring apparatus. Measurements can be read at the upper end of the bottom portion, off the top portion, in inches, as well as in feet and inches. A friction fit exists between the upper and lower sections so that a measurement obtained by extending the upper section from the lower section so that the entire device is positioned between two points, can easily be transferred to another location, as the relative position of the upper and lower sections are maintained by the friction fit. Overextending the upper portion out of the lower portion is prevented by a locking pin device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Feddynagh, Inc.
    Inventor: John Ramsthaler
  • Patent number: 6769192
    Abstract: An extension ruler intended for symmetry measurements of vehicles, having a built in measuring device for the extension of the ruler and transfer of data or figures to a display. The measuring device includes a tape extending from one end of the ruler to the other end where the tape is wound on a drum spring biased in the winding direction, which drum is provided with teeth and that the passage of these is detected and counted by a light source and a photo diode and that the drum rotation detected in this way is used to provide a measure of the extending of the ruler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: JNE AB
    Inventors: Hakan Johansson, Lars Nilsson
  • Patent number: 6735881
    Abstract: A firewood measuring and marking apparatus includes an elongated base member with a marker mounted generally vertically on one end. The marker has a downwardly projecting tip for marking a log when pressed against the log. The base member has an adjustable extension arm to permit various predetermined lengths to be marked on the log to be cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Inventor: Robert F. Nesselrotte
  • Patent number: 6732445
    Abstract: A pipe fitting method and apparatus for taking simultaneous linear and angular measurements is used for pipefitting. A first pipe joint fitting of a pipe fitting apparatus herein disclosed is attached to a first pipe joint, a second pipe joint fitting of the pipe fitting apparatus is attached to a second pipe joint, and the first pipe joint is attached to a first unconnected end of a first pipe-to-be-joined. Then, the pipe fitting apparatus is extended to an extended length thereof, while an angle measuring device of the pipe fitting apparatus simultaneously maintains an angular reading at a preselected joinder angle, until a top open end of the second pipe joint aligns with a second pipe-to-be-joined at an alignment line. Next, it is determined where to cut the second pipe-to-be-joined with reference to the alignment line. Finally, it is determined how long to cut a third connecting pipe with reference to the extended length of the pipe fitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Inventor: David Scoville
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6688012
    Abstract: A light weight surveying pole which is of robust and highly accurate construction. A lock for fixing telescoping sections of the pole provides fixed positioning without high initial clamping forces. An air cushion system inhibits damaging the pole sections when they are retracted, but the pole sections can be simply pulled apart without any other required disassembly for cleaning or repair. Fittings for use in screw-together pole sections are constructed to permit location within mating pole sections prior to application of adhesive for greater precision and maintenance of coincident axes of the pole sections when screwed together. Also, the end faces of the fittings are particularly formed to facilitate complete face-to-face contact and avoid misalignment when the fittings are attached. A cover can be attached over a point of the surveying pole when the point it not needed, and the cover can be stowed on the surveying pole when the point is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignee: Crain Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen B. Crain, Ronnie D. Everly, Larry W. Essex, Ralph C. Mize, Jerry L. Williamson
  • Patent number: 6658753
    Abstract: Fence post positioning and leveling apparatus comprising in combination a first post-embracing frame member having an operable and closeable side wall having an inner face defining in a closed mode a post-receiving chamber; rotation means to allow of the opening and closing of the side wall; releasable fastening means to hold the side wall in the closed mode; a second post-embracing frame member having an operable and closeable side wall having an inner face defining in a closed mode a post-receiving chamber; and inter-frame elongate member positioning means adapted to be connected to the first and the second frame members to provide a desired fixed inter-frame member distance. Preferably the inter-frame positioning means comprises a pair of telescopic forks. Each of the frame members preferably has a vertical spirit level and a horizontal spirit level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Inventor: Michael J. Tatarnic
  • Patent number: 6550156
    Abstract: A pipe fitting method and apparatus for taking simultaneous linear and angular measurements is used for pipefitting. A first pipe joint fitting of a pipe fitting apparatus herein disclosed is attached to a first pipe joint, a second pipe joint fitting of the pipe fitting apparatus is attached to a second pipe joint, and the first pipe joint is attached to a first unconnected end of a first pipe-to-be-joined. Then, the pipe fitting apparatus is extended to an extended length thereof, while an angle measuring device of the pipe fitting apparatus simultaneously maintains an angular reading at a preselected joinder angle, until a top open end of the second pipe joint aligns with a second pipe-to-be-joined at an alignment line. Next, it is determined where to cut the second pipe-to-be-joined with reference to the alignment line. Finally, it is determined how long to cut a third connecting pipe with reference to the extended length of the pipe fitting apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: David Scoville
  • Patent number: 6546634
    Abstract: A compass cutter has a main body fastened with an extension rod which is connected with a slidable seat slidable along the extension rod. The main body is further provided with a locating block, a protective cover, a blade, a fixation block, and an insertion pin. The slidable seat is provided with a locating block, a connection rod, a locating pin, and a shield. The compass cutter can be expanded, through the movement of the extension rod. The locating pin and the blade are covered by the shield to protect the user of the compass cutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventor: Chen Shan Ming
  • Patent number: 6513259
    Abstract: A slide is mounted on a slideway with a pair of tongue and groove interconnections. The slideway has a pair of engagement rails or tongues provided on a pair of cantilevered arms. The rails are spring biased within a pair of grooves formed in the slideway. An adjustment screw drives the arms apart to adjustably spring bias the rails into the grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: Chris D. Chiodo
  • Patent number: 6418631
    Abstract: An adjustable measuring and marking device is provided. The device has a lower portion with a bottom end and an upper end and an upper portion with a bottom end and an upper end. The upper portion telescopically interconnects with the lower portion. Measurement intervals, such as inches, are marked along the upper and lower sections so that one can use the device as a measuring apparatus. Measurements can be read at the upper end of the bottom portion, off the top portion, in inches, as well as in feet and inches. A friction fit exists between the upper and lower sections so that a measurement obtained by extending the upper section from the lower section so that the entire device is positioned between two points, can easily be transferred to another location, as the relative position of the upper and lower sections are maintained by the friction fit. Overextending the upper portion out of the lower portion is prevented by a locking pin device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: John Ramsthaler
  • Publication number: 20020073571
    Abstract: A measuring device for simplifying surveying and leveling work. The measuring device includes a multiple-sided elongate member; and also includes a sleeve member being movably disposed about the multiple-sided elongate member; and further includes a fastening assembly for fastening the sleeve member to the multiple-sided elongate member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2000
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Michael P. Brannon