Hand Tool (e.g., Knife, Drill) Patents (Class 362/119)
  • Publication number: 20020181228
    Abstract: A ratchet wrench in which a lamp unit and a battery set are mounted inside the ratchet member, and a rotary cap-controlled switch assembly is coupled to one extension tube of the ratchet member and rotated forward/backwards on the extension tube to close/open the circuit of the lamp unit and the battery set.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Wang
  • Publication number: 20020177099
    Abstract: Light system useful for activating light-activated materials are disclosed. Various configurations of light emitting semiconductor chips and heat sinks are disclosed, as well as various structures and methods for driving, controlling and using them, and materials and structures usable therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2002
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: Cao Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Densen Cao
  • Publication number: 20020172035
    Abstract: Power tools (1) may include an electric motor (11) disposed within a housing (5). A lighting device (20) may be mounted on the housing and may serve to illuminate the area around a tool bit and/or a portion of a workpiece (W) that will be machined by the tool bit. An electric light (23) may be connected to a power source circuit (11a) via an electric line that includes electric wires (25). In order to facilitate the wiring operation, a wire guide (22, 122) preferably supports or retains at least a portion of the electric line. The wire guide may be mounted on the housing such that the wire guide extends along an inner surface or an outer surface of the housing. In the alternative, the electric line may be disposed within a recess (31) defined within an inner surface or an outer surface of the housing. In either case, the electrical line can be easily wired or installed and the electric line preferably does not interfere with machining operations during operation of the power tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Akihito Hara, Atsushi Utsuno
  • Patent number: 6478442
    Abstract: A screwdriver having a light emitting device according to the present invention comprises a handle, a shank, a light emitting device, and a light guiding sleeve. At least the front end portion of the handle is transparent. The handle has a receiving room therein. One end of the shank is connected to the front end of the handle, and the other end thereof forms a tip. The light emitting device is received in the receiving room of the handle. The light guiding sleeve is transparent and is sleeved on the shank. Thereby, light emitted by the light emitting device can be guided to the front end and be projected out to clearly illuminate the screw to be turned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Sheng Ho Chen
  • Publication number: 20020154499
    Abstract: This invention is about a screwdriver with an indicator bulb. There is a U-shaped fixation base on the front part of the handle of the screwdriver. Inside the fixation base is a semi-circular ring for the fixation of the indicator bulb base. In front and below the bulb base have a longitudinal slot and a mating semi-circular hole. Inside the slot and the hole is a rectangular slot for insertion and fixation of a LED bulb. In the middle of the rectangular slot is an embedded slot that allows connection to the battery container behind. A LED diode cable will pass through the embedded slot and go to the positive and negative electrodes of the battery in the battery container, supplying power for the indicator bulb, which provides illumination parallel to facilitate the screwdriver lock up operation. The bulb is turned on/off by pressing a press button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventor: Kai-Cheng Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6464370
    Abstract: The present diving tool is comprised of a handle, a threaded lens housing positioned at a front end of the handle and offset to a top side, and a slot positioned at the front end of the handle and offset to a lower side. A battery compartment in the handle behind the lens housing is arranged for receiving a battery. The lens housing is arranged to either activate or deactivate a lamp therein when rotated in opposite directions. An elongated blade is received in the slot of the handle for prying abalone from rocks. The tip of the blade has rounded corners and edges to avoid injuring the abalone. The inner end of the blade has notches on opposite sides which mate with bumps on the sides of the slot to secure the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas Steven Ulicny
  • Publication number: 20020145866
    Abstract: A screwdriver having a light emitting device according to the present invention comprises a handle, a shank, a light emitting device, and a light guiding sleeve. At least the front end portion of the handle is transparent. The handle has a receiving room therein. One end of the shank is connected to the front end of the handle, and the other end thereof forms a tip. The light emitting device is received in the receiving room of the handle. The light guiding sleeve is transparent and is sleeved on the shank. Thereby, light emitted by the light emitting device can be guided to the front end and be projected out to clearly illuminate the screw to be turned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Sheng Ho Chen
  • Publication number: 20020141180
    Abstract: A hand tool having an illumination structure includes a metallic handle having a cavity having a first end formed with an inner thread and a second end having a circular hole, a metallic rotation knob formed with an insulation threaded column that is rotatably screwed in the inner thread, a metallic spring rested on the rotation knob, a battery urged on the metallic spring, and a bulb received in the circular hole and rested on the battery. Thus, the metallic rotation knob can be rotated to move between a first position where the peripheral wall of the rotation knob is in contact with the peripheral wall of the handle, thereby forming an electrical connection state, and a second position where the peripheral wall of the rotation knob is detached from the peripheral wall of the handle, thereby forming an electrical disconnection state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventor: Shu-Yuan Liao
  • Patent number: 6454453
    Abstract: A hand tool that drives, and selectively illuminates through, a conventional socket, and which includes a handle, a shaft, a tip, and illuminating apparatus. The handle has a throughbore. The shaft is fixedly received in the handle and has a throughbore that communicates with the throughbore in the handle. The tip extends from the shaft and engages in the conventional socket and has a throughbore that communicates with the throughbore in the shaft. The illuminating apparatus includes a fiber optic strand, a module, and a light. The fiber optic strand extends in the throughbores in the handle, the shaft, and the tip. The module is replaceably attached to the handle and includes a case and a dial switch. The case holds a battery, contains a battery interface, and has a throughbore and a collar that threadably engages in the handle. The collar has a throughbore that communicates with the throughbore in the case and the throughbore in the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Donato Ambrosio
  • Patent number: 6454429
    Abstract: A hand tool having an illumination structure includes a metallic handle, and a metallic rotation knob. Thus, the metallic rotation knob can be rotated relative to the metallic handle to move between a first position where the peripheral wall of the rotation knob is in contact with the peripheral wall of the handle, thereby forming an electrical connection state, and a second position where the peripheral wall of the rotation knob is detached from the peripheral wall of the handle, thereby forming an electrical disconnection state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Shu-Yuan Liao
  • Patent number: 6454428
    Abstract: A lighted extension attachment for tools for illuminating hard-to-reach areas while working with various tool members. The lighted extension attachment for tools includes a base member having a bore centrally-disposed therethrough. An elongate support member has a bottom end and a top end portion and a bore extending therein and is removably supported in the bore of the base member. A light-emitting assembly includes a light socket member being fastenably attached to the elongate support member. A tool members is detachably attached to the elongate support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Ruben Bruzon
  • Patent number: 6454430
    Abstract: An emergency hammer includes a handle unit and a hammerhead. The handle unit includes a handle and a rotary rod. The rotary rod has a pivot end connected pivotally to the handle, and a free end connected fixedly to the hammerhead. The rotary rod can be turned relative to the handle between an unfolded position, where the total length of the handle unit is equal to the sum of the lengths of the handle and the rotary rod, and a folded position, where the total length of the handle unit is approximately equal to the length of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Ming-Hsuan Lin
  • Patent number: 6454427
    Abstract: An illuminating utility knife has an easy-access to spare blades contained therein. The knife has a housing made up of a first cover and a second cover coupled together and fastened by at least one screw. A blade is slidably contained in the housing. The utility knife of the invention can be used in dim light because an illuminating device is provided in the knife. The illuminating device includes a bulb installed near the blade, a battery chamber defined in the housing for containing at least one battery, and a switch used for actuating the bulb. Additionally, a spare blade drawer is provided and slidably contained in a passage defined in the housing. At least one spare blade is stored in the spare blade drawer and therefore is easy to be taken out for use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventor: Kun-Chen Chen
  • Publication number: 20020131267
    Abstract: An illuminator adapted for use on a hand-operated tool such as a power tool (1000) comprises a low-profile, flexible, adherent laminated housing (900), including one or more lamps (906, 907) capable of illuminating a work surface beneath the power tool. This permits a user to work with the tool in conditions of poor visibility. The housing includes connectors. A battery pack (1002) may be attached to a surface of the tool or concealed within an attachable or accessory handle (1002A). Versions including lamp control are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2000
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventor: ANTHONY ALFRED VAN OSENBRUGGEN
  • Patent number: 6446341
    Abstract: A tool holder and tools combination includes a base with a head formed on an end thereof. A fixing seat is pivotally mounted to the head and a blade is forcibly inserted into an engaging groove of the fixing seat. A catch is provided to engage with ratchet teeth of the fixing seat to thereby prevent inadvertent folding of the blade. The catch can be retained in a position allowing free pivotal movement of the blade relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventors: Mei-Chen Wang, Chiu-Man Chang-Kao
  • Patent number: 6434829
    Abstract: A knife includes a handle, a blade, and a light-emitting member disposed in the interior of the handle such that the light-emitting member emits light at the time when the blade is folded out of the handle, and such that the light-emitting member stops emitting light at the time when the blade is folded into the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Shou Mao Chen
  • Publication number: 20020105797
    Abstract: A tool light and method of using the same for illuminating a work area for a tool. The tool light includes a mounting mechanism to be mounted to at least one of a support surface of the tool and a support surface in the vicinity of the tool, and a light housing carried by the mounting mechanism. The light housing has at least one LED and at least one power source to power at least one LED to illuminate a work area for a tool. The method includes mounting the mounting mechanism to at least one of a support surface of the tool and a support surface in the vicinity of the tool, and illuminating the work area with at least one LED of the tool light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Applicant: Technology Creations, Inc.
    Inventors: Amir A. Navid, Eric A. Hanscom, David Naghi
  • Patent number: 6428179
    Abstract: An illuminable accessory item having an illuminating unit included within the structure of the accessory item so that the illuminating unit is illuminated upon exertion of pressure on a specific trigger point on the accessory item. A pressure-activated actuator that controls the illumination of the illuminating unit is activated when pressure is applied to the trigger point. The actuator comprises a circuit board that, in combination with the illuminating unit, a trigger and one or more power sources, forms a closed circuit that delivers electrical current to the illuminating unit. One or more embodiments of the invention further include an ornamental fixture that is preferably transparent or translucent and can be used as a cover for the illuminating unit. When the illuminating unit is lit, its illumination is visible through the transparent or translucent portions of the ornamental fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventors: David M. Saffron, Jack Saffron
  • Patent number: 6428180
    Abstract: A compact, self-powered, selectively-mountable lighting unit provides light directable by a user to an operation site in a confined space to enable the user to operate a tool therein. The lighting unit is detachably mountable in a variety of ways either to a user-selected location on any suitable surgical instrument,or at the user's option to an adjacent location within the confined space, to facilitate well-lit and accurate viewing thereat. The lighting unit may be adapted to provide lighting of selected frequency, in an adjustable focus ranging from substantially diffuse light to a tightly focused beam. A known dead-soft element may be included to enable the user to adjust orientation of the delivered light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Inventors: Mickey M. Karram, Bryan D. Knodel
  • Publication number: 20020097572
    Abstract: A tool includes a housing having a channel for detachably receiving a tool handle and having a chamber for receiving one or more batteries. A socket is pivotally secured to the housing and includes a bore for receiving a light bulb. Two conductor blade are secured to the socket and electrically coupled to the case and the center electrodes of the light bulb. Two conductor arms are secured in the housing and have one end electrically coupled to the conductor blades, even when the socket and the conductor blades are rotated relative to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Chang Hsing Yeh
  • Publication number: 20020093816
    Abstract: A compact ratcheting driver has a handle portion and a an extendible ratcheting head portion. The head portion has a pair of parallel guide rails which are coplanar with and extend into the handle to engage a pair of complementary guide shoulders formed within the handle. The head portion includes ratcheting means connected to a driver element for engaging and driving an element to be driven and detent means for selectively locking the head portion in either an extended disposition or a retracted disposition. In one embodiment, the handle portion includes a fixed drive socket. In a second embodiment, the handle includes selectively manually actuated lighting means to illuminate a work area in which the ratcheting driver element is to engage a driven element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: George Hillinger, Hector Ray Hernandez, Jaime W. Nash
  • Patent number: 6419371
    Abstract: A lighted tool including a handle member, which has a distal end adapted to engage a blade member or other implement. A light module has a light source capable of producing a beam of light and the light module is of a size to be complementarily received within the bore of the handle member so that the light source illuminates the blade member engaged with the distal end of the handle member. The light module is preferably detachably secured within the bore of the handle member, such as by complementarily threaded surfaces, so that the light module is insertable into the bore and removable therefrom. Thus, the light module can be either used to illuminate the blade member and work piece when disposed within the bore of the handle member or used independently as a conventional flash light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Ovation Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Gavin McCalla, William R. Lutz
  • Publication number: 20020075673
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pocket implement magazine including, first and second longitudinally extending, spaced apart, parallel structural members providing an interior space therebetween, with a pivot pin extending between the first and second structural members. A pivot implement is rotatably received in the interior space by the pivot pin, the pivot implement having a functional end, with an associated operational latch hole, opposite a rotational end, with an associated storage latch hole. The pivot implement is capable of rotating from a closed to an open position and back to the closed position. A latch assembly communicates with the pivot implement and selectively allows for rotation of the pivot implement and selectively locks the pivot implement in the closed or open position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Publication date: June 20, 2002
    Inventor: Mehrunissa N. Phelps
  • Publication number: 20020064040
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool in accordance with the present invention includes a hole punch and a stapler that are selectively engaged with a housing. The housing includes a recess defined by an inclined wall and an end wall that extend from a respective housing sidewall and bottom wall and merge into each other at a curved portion. The inclined wall, curved portion and end wall include opposing undercut slots which engage corresponding flanges on an actuating member of the stapler when the stapler is attached thereto. The housing includes a corner opening and opposing guide rails that extend from the housing front and rear walls into the corner opening. The guide rails engage corresponding grooves in a punch casing when the hole punch is inserted into the corner opening. This structure allows for the stapler/hole punch to be detached and used as a stand-alone implement, or used when fixed to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen J. Padden
  • Patent number: 6386727
    Abstract: A tool includes a handle having a driving stem for driving fasteners. A light device includes a housing having a channel for receiving the handle, a socket received in the housing, a light bulb received in the socket, one or more batteries received in the housing and electrically coupled to the light bulb, and a switch for controlling the energizing of the light bulb. The housing may be attached to the handles of various kinds of tools. The socket is rotatably secured to the housing at a pivot pin for rotating to any suitable angular position relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Chang Hsing Yeh
  • Publication number: 20020054491
    Abstract: A new and improved apparatus is disclosed for use on a variety of hand-held tools. The apparatus would comprise a small light which would be mounted on top of a hand-held tool. The small light would be designed to have a bulb and mounting means in order to properly affix to the power tool. The small light would be designed to project a beam of light in a forward direction in order to ensure that a user would be able to use the particular hand tool in a safer manner when working either in lighted areas or when light is not particularly adequate. The light would preferably be designed to be battery-powered, but could also be designed to be hooked up to the batteries in the attached hand tool or to standard household current.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2001
    Publication date: May 9, 2002
    Inventor: Iram Casas
  • Publication number: 20020051367
    Abstract: An optical waveguide concentrator and photocuring device with the optical waveguide concentrator having at least one solid optically transparent member for combining the output radiant energy from a plurality of optoelectronic light emitting devices mounted in a circular array facing the solid optically transparent member with the optically transparent member having an input surface, an output surface and a sloping surface intersecting the input and output surface to form an acute angle and with with each optoelectronic light emitting device having an optical axis directed parallel to or inclined relative to the longitudinal axis of the concentrator. The geometry of the solid optically transparent member may be conical or hyperbolic with the sloping surface tapered to form a tapered angle of between 5° and 15°.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Inventors: Brian Hooker, Joshua Friedman
  • Patent number: 6379019
    Abstract: A lighting structure of a socket wrench including a rotary seat which is fastened a housing seat of a handle body of the socket wrench. The rotary seat has a rotary shaft which is pivotally disposed in two pivoting slots of the housing seat and is fastened at both ends to a rotary knob. The rotary seat is fastened to a light-emitting element and a light focusing shield and is provided with two elastic bonding wires connecting the light-emitting element and a battery set disposed in a plug hole of the handle body of the socket wrench. The light-emitting element is adjusted by the rotary knob to emit light at a desired angle. The housing seat is provided with a transparent protective plate to shield the light-emitting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Chang Ming Lin
  • Publication number: 20020048166
    Abstract: Power tools are taught having a motor M1, a tool 1 coupled to the motor M1 via a tool holder 2, at least one light 4 disposed proximal to the tool 1, a switch 6 coupled to the motor M1 and the light 4, the switch 6 being capable of activation by an operator, a power supply 7 coupled to the switch 6, and a timer circuit 3 coupled to the light 4, the switch 6 and the power supply 7. Preferably, activation of the switch 6 causes the motor M1 and the light 4 to operate and the timer circuit 3 causes the light 4 to remain lit for a predetermined amount of time after either (1) the switch 6 has been activated or (2) the switch 6 has been deactivated subsequent to being activated. The timer circuit 3 can be, for example, a RC timer circuit 11 or a microprocessor 15. The light 4 may be an LED. The power supply 7 can be a rechargeable battery Ba.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Publication date: April 25, 2002
    Applicant: MAKITA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yutaka Matsunaga
  • Publication number: 20020041501
    Abstract: A polarized component is obtained with a high conversion efficiency in a light guide which produces one of the polarized components by having it transmitted. The light from a light source is incident to a light guide which comprises a plurality of light guide layers and reflected by the end surface to an interface between the light guide layers. The polarized component transmitting through the end surface is rotated in its polarization plane by a wave length plate and reflected by a reflecting plate for reentrance to the light guide at the end surface of the light guide toward the interface. The reentering light mostly transmits through the interface because the polarization plane is rotated. A reflected light polarized component is returned to the wave length plate and the reflecting plate, and directed back to the interface again. The polarized component transmitting through the interface is similarly transmitted and reflected in the next interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Publication date: April 11, 2002
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Yoji Oki, Koji Kawada, Masaru Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6367944
    Abstract: A socket wrench and light source arrangement includes a wrench, and a socket coupled to the wrench which is alternatively set between a front working position and a rear working position. A battery is installed in the wrench. A lamp holder assembly is installed in the socket and adapted to emit light through the front open side of the socket. The lamp holder assembly is electrically connected to the battery to emit light when the socket is set in the rear working position, or electrically disconnected from the battery to turn off light when the socket is set in the front working position or separated from the wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Inventor: Lai-Fu Wang
  • Patent number: 6364500
    Abstract: A lighted handle including a handle member, which has a distal end adapted to complementarily engage a desired tool and which defines a bore longitudinally extending along at least a portion of its length, and a light module, or flashlight. The light module has a light source capable of producing a beam of light and the light module is of a size to be complementarily received within the bore of the handle member so that the light source illuminates the tool attached to the distal end of the handle member. The light module is detachably secured within the bore of the handle member, such as by complementarily threaded surfaces, so that the light module is insertable into the bore and removable therefrom. Thus, the light module can be either used to illuminate the tool when disposed within the bore of the handle member or used independently as a conventional light module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: McCalla Company
    Inventors: Gavin McCalla, William R. Lutz
  • Patent number: 6352354
    Abstract: The light pinpointing device is for producing a pinpointing light signal at an operative center point of a robot tool. The pinpointing light signal is useful to properly position the robot tool during the teaching phase. The light pinpointing device comprises a frame having first and second opposite ends, the first end being provided with a fastener for fastening the frame to an end of the robot tool. A light source assembly is provided to produce a pair of light beams inside the frame. A lens in front of the light source assembly is provided for directing the light beams through the second end of the frame in converging directions so that the light beams intersect with each other at a distance from the end of the robot tool corresponding to the operative center point thereof, thereby providing the pinpointing light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: Servo-Robot Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Boillot, Jean-Claude Fontaine, Dominique Frechette
  • Patent number: 6347875
    Abstract: The invention relates to an implement holder, in particular for a pocket knife, or a flat-design storage case having a housing body with one or more housing compartments for at least one implement which can be moved out from a rest position into a position of use, e.g. a knife, corkscrew, screwdriver. A writing instrument is provided as an implement and the housing body projects beyond the implement forming the handle thereof in a ready-to-use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Victorinox AG
    Inventor: Hermann Painsith
  • Patent number: 6334693
    Abstract: A wrench includes a handle having a chamber for receiving a light device, and a cover pivotally secured to the handle for securing the light device in the handle. The light device may be easily and quickly replaced with the other one and has an exposed switch to be actuated by the users. The handle includes a fixed jaw, and a sliding jaw slidably received in the handle and forced to move toward and away from the fixed jaw. A bolt is secured to the sliding jaw and threaded through a knob which may move the bolt and the sliding jaw toward and away from the fixed jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Inventor: Yung Jen Lee
  • Patent number: 6331111
    Abstract: A curing light system useful for curing light activated composite materials is disclosed. The system may be a hand-held portable curing light system operated by batteries or a chair side curing light system operated by AC power. The curing light system includes a light source which may be one or more light emitting diode chips or one or more diode laser chips. The chips of the light source are located on a single heat sink for heat dissipation. The heat sink and chips are located in an encasement that may include a focus dome or transparent window through which light travels to reach light activated composite materials. In the preferred embodiment, the light travels from the light source directly to a curing surface without first going through a light guide or fiber optic cable. The light source is preferably located in a handle that is manipulated by a user in order to direct light emitted by the light source to composite materials to be cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Cao Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Densen Cao
  • Patent number: 6325522
    Abstract: A hand held device providing effective illumination of a site being worked on has a metal tube serving as a handle, at one end of which a switch is threaded therein, and at the other end of which a window is secured. Located within the handle are a battery, which communicates with the switch by means of a spring, and a light bulb, which faces the window. Interchangeable implements, including tools and instruments, are individually releasably secured within an orifice in the window. The switch operates simply, facilely, and positively, with no parts which will wear out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Inventor: Harald Walian
  • Patent number: 6318875
    Abstract: An illuminating nut driver system comprises a hollow torque handle, the proximal end being hollow and having threads on its interior, and the distal end having an opening with a key way therein. A cylindrical nut driver at a first end and a key member at a second end are both integral with a hollow nut driver shaft. The key member is configured for coupling with the key way of the handle for being locked against rotation. A detachable lamp/laser module is removably positionable within the handle from the proximal end with threads on the proximal end coupleable with the handle. A lamp chamber is positioned within the module facing the distal end of the handle. A lamp is detachable mounted within the lamp chamber. A laser generator is positioned adjacent to the lamp at the distal end of the module. The laser generator is mounted so that its radiation is pointed out the hollow driver shaft so it can be used as a pointer. A generally cylindrical end cap has a switch contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Kristin Hrabar, Frank Hrabar, Jr., Kimberly Hrabar, Donna Hrabar
  • Patent number: 6318996
    Abstract: A dental composition curing method and device for exposing a dental composition to a beam of radiation emitted by a light-emitting-diode (LED) positioned proximate the composition, LED radiation being more efficient than the conventional use of filtered white light or laser radiation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Noureddine Melikechi, Ranjit Dinkar Pradhan
  • Patent number: 6318874
    Abstract: Power tools are taught having a motor M1, a tool 1 coupled to the motor M1 via a tool holder 2, at least one light 4 disposed proximal to the tool 1, a switch 6 coupled to the motor M1 and the light 4, the switch 6 being capable of activation by an operator, a power supply 7 coupled to the switch 6, and a timer circuit 3 coupled to the light 4, the switch 6 and the power supply 7. Preferably, activation of the switch 6 causes the motor M1 and the light 4 to operate and the timer circuit 3 causes the light 4 to remain lit for a predetermined amount of time after either (1) the switch 6 has been activated or (2) the switch 6 has been deactivated subsequent to being activated. The timer circuit 3 can be, for example, a RC timer circuit 11 or a microprocessor 15. The light 4 may be an LED. The power supply 7 can be a rechargeable battery Ba.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Makita Corporation
    Inventor: Yutaka Matsunaga
  • Patent number: 6312138
    Abstract: A lighted magnetic retrieval tool includes a magnet member having a pickup surface and an opening in the pickup surface; and a light member for directing light through the opening whereby light can be directed at objects to be retrieved with the pickup surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: Edward S. Coleman, Jr., Wen-Ruey Chang
  • Patent number: 6309088
    Abstract: The invention discloses a combined pencil sharpener and an ink stamp being able to give off light. The invention includes a pencil sharpener and a stamp which are slidably engaged together. When a pencil is inserted into an opening of the pencil sharpener, it will move the sharpener towards the stamp and then conduct a circuit contained in a housing of the stamp to allow an LED to give off light. The invention will not only increase the attractiveness of the sharpener but also be very helpful to teach a young user to sharpen a pencil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Taiwan Stamp Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen-Yi Chen
  • Publication number: 20010033486
    Abstract: The device comprises a pistol shaped “grip” designed to ergonomically rest in the user's Palm. Illumination means at a superior portion of the grip and a multi-position docking mechanism for incorporating various instruments at various user defined locations along the grip's vertical axis. The assembly is configured to allow the user, with one hand, to illuminate the work area and use an instrument without substantially obstructing the light source.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2001
    Publication date: October 25, 2001
    Inventor: Steven M. Maine
  • Patent number: 6305815
    Abstract: A screwdriver includes a hollow handle in which a bit set is slidably received and the bit set receives bits. A shank extends from a front end of the handle. A first end of the bit set is connected to a head member and a second end of the bit set is connected to a cap which is rotatably and disengagably connected to a rear end of the handle. A limit ring extends radially inward from the inside of the handle so that when the bit set is pulled from the handle to a position where the head member is stopped by the limit ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Home Soon Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Nee Lin
  • Patent number: 6299324
    Abstract: A lantern having a flashing lantern cap includes a flashing lantern cap, a head, and a handle. The flashing lantern cap is formed to be capable of being detachable from the lantern to make light emitted from a lamp of the lantern to flash. The flashing lantern cap is attached at the fore end of the head. The head has the lamp inside and into which the flashing lantern cap is inserted. The handle is coupled to the rear end of the head and stores a battery inside. The handle can further include at the rear end thereof a multi-function portion having at least one of a cutter for cutting provided at an angled inlet, a hammer for breaking a car window, and a compressed gas injector used for self-defense.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Tae Hyung Kim
  • Patent number: 6296365
    Abstract: A lighted hand tool, such as a lighted plier tool, including first and second plier members and a light source. Each plier member having a handle portion, a jaw portion, and a pivot section being intermediate the handle portion and the jaw portion for each plier member. The second plier member pivotally mounted relative to the pivot section of the first plier member at the pivot section of the second plier member for being pivotable relative to the first plier member. The handle portion of the first plier member defining a bore longitudinally extending along at least a portion of the length of the handle portion, the bore having a bore front end near the first pivot section. The light source is disposed within the bore of the handle portion adjacent the bore front end and is capable of producing a beam of light. Thus, the light source is energized from a power means, the beam of light produced by the light source is in communication with at least one portion of the first and second plier members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Assignee: McCalla Company
    Inventors: Gavin McCalla, William R. Lutz, Steve R. Burns
  • Publication number: 20010024366
    Abstract: A knife includes a casing including an arcuate end to form a handle of pistol grip type for grasp and a blade mounted in the casing. The blade is slidable relative to the casing to a position in which an end of the blade is exposed for cutting. The handle of the casing includes a compartment for receiving a tape measure. An illumination device is detachably attached to the casing to provide illumination when required.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Publication date: September 27, 2001
    Inventor: Martin Chen
  • Patent number: 6290366
    Abstract: A polygonal ratchet wrench with an illuminating device including a hollow housing and a matching body is characterized on that: the hollow housing has interior positive leads, negative leads and batteries for forming a complete power supply unit, and lamps for illuminating the working area as well as the object therein are constructed at a bottom of the matching body and the bottom of the hollow housing. By providing a receiving hole of the matching body, a labor-saving extension bar can be engaged for extending the force arm of the polygonal ratchet wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Inventor: Wan-Chang Lin
  • Patent number: 6283606
    Abstract: A ratchet wrench with illuminating device, including two clamping boards, a pad block, a rotary member and at least one cell cover. By means of the pad block sandwiched between the clamping boards, the ratchet wrench can be easily manufactured and applied to those situations necessitating great torque and working sites with insufficient illumination. Therefore, the ratchet wrench is more competitive on market. When it is necessary to replace the cell, a user only needs to push the cell cover in a specific direction so as to open or close the cell cover. Therefore, the cell can be easily replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventors: Hung Yin Wei, Ping-Chung Huang
  • Patent number: 6283607
    Abstract: A socket wrench including a handle, a socket, and a handle body which is provided at a front end thereof with a clamping cell having a pivoting slot. The pivoting slot is provided with a guide slot and a rotary member having a shaft rod and a light bulb opening in which an illuminating element is disposed such that two pins of the illuminating element extend toward the rotary member, and that two pins are connected with two conductive annular members which are fitted over the rotary member. The conductive piece of the plug body is extended into the clamping cell by an extension guide body which is forced by a resilient element to become attached to the conductive annular member of the rotary member, thereby enabling the rotary member to adjust an angle at which the illuminating element illuminates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventor: Chang-Ming Lin