With Tool Pivoted To Plier Patents (Class 7/128)
  • Publication number: 20090000038
    Abstract: A foldable plier combination tool comprises a foldable plier having a working head portion and a handle portion having a pair of arms which are operable to manipulate the working head portion to open and close. At least one of the arms is pivotably connected to the foldable plier so as to move between an extended position where the plier is unfolded and a retracted position where the plier is folded. The arm receives at least a part of the working head portion when in the retracted position. The combination also includes an associated tool for connection to the foldable plier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: January 1, 2009
    Inventor: Stephen J. Padden
  • Patent number: 7448301
    Abstract: Snap ring pliers include a first section having a first jaw portion with a first outer end and a first tip projecting outwardly from the first outer end, and a second section having a second jaw portion with a second outer end and a second tip projecting outwardly from the second outer end. The first tip opposes the second tip. A pivot pivotally couples the first section to the second section for movement of the first and second jaw portions between closed and open positions. The first and second tips are joined forming a tongue adapted to be received in a snap ring gap in the closed position of the first and second jaw portions, and the first and second tips are spaced apart and separated by a gap in the open position of the first and second jaw portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Inventor: John A. Cronin
  • Publication number: 20080271256
    Abstract: A multitool having an orientation of the handles in such a manner to allow access of various tools while the multitool is in a closed orientation and the plier region is contained within a central channel region of the first and second handle members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2007
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventor: Spencer Frazer
  • Publication number: 20080263777
    Abstract: A frame member for the handle of a folding knife or multipurpose tool includes an integral flange with an integral leaf spring. An internal frame member has an upper flange and an oppositely facing lower flange. Each flange includes an integral leaf spring. The leaf springs bear upon the base portions of folding tool blades that are pivotably pinned to the frame. Attaching side scales to the frame creates upwardly and downwardly facing tool pockets. Other frames are shown in the form of a channel with an integral external flange extending outwardly from the top of a channel wall in a direction away from the channel. Pivot pins extending through the channel and out the channel wall carry pivoting tool blades. An integral leaf spring on the external flange bears against the base of a blade pivotably connected to the frame outside of the channel. Other tool blades are carried inside the channel and pivot about the pivot pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20080236210
    Abstract: A locking system for a multitool where multiple discrete lock members are attached to a handle and the lock members can be individually engaged to lock and unlock tool members from a retained to an extended position and vice versa within the handle of a multitool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2007
    Publication date: October 2, 2008
    Inventor: Spencer Frazer
  • Publication number: 20080201861
    Abstract: A multi-function hand tool with a pivotally collapsible jaw-type tool that has a jaw lock which mechanically prevents the jaw-type tool from collapse. The jaw lock mechanism is contained within the jaw pivot joint of the jaw-type tool, and may be partially extended as a push button to prevent unwanted handle collapse. A plurality of blades are pivotally attached to the opposite end of the multi-function tool, which has a blade locking mechanism wherein the blade lock is pivoted about an axis located distal to the blade fastener/pivot axis. Each handle of the multi-function tool may be made of two individual handle halves that unite to form the handle, but that provide very precise tensioning, or the handles may be of a single channel shape using an infinitely adjustable threaded fastener and sleeve to provide precise adjustment of the multiple blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Inventor: Paul W. Poehlmann
  • Patent number: 7415744
    Abstract: A foldable candle tool is presented that includes a pair of handles with each handle having an open channel. A wick cutter having a pair of jaws pivotally connected about a pivot pin and includes a pair of legs with each leg being pivotally connected to one end of one handle such that the handles are effectively coupled together by the wick cutter. Further, the handles are moveable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the open channels of each handle face each other and the wick cutter is at least partially housed within the channels. A plurality of additional candle tools are moveably mounted to the handles with each additional candle tool being moveable from a stored position within one channel to a position where the candle tool projects outwardly from the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Inventor: Scott G. Williams
  • Patent number: 7415745
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose hand tool including folding pliers or scissors and other tool blades and bits. A pair of handles each has a pivot axle at each end. A base of each pliers jaw or scissors blade is mounted on the pivot axle at one end of a handle, allowing the handles to fold around the jaws to blades to a compact folded configuration of the tool. Each handle has frame side members with attached flanges. Elongate springs lie between the handle frame side members and fit around the flanges, rather than being riveted to the handle frame side members. The springs press against the base of each pliers jaw or other tool blade, to keep each in a folded position or support it in a deployed position. One end of a spring may be hooked around a spring retainer at one end of the handle. The pivot axles interconnect the handle frame side members and the jaws, blades, or tool bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7406896
    Abstract: A frame member for the handle of a folding knife or multipurpose tool includes an integral flange with an integral leaf spring. An internal frame member has an upper flange and an oppositely facing lower flange. Each flange includes an integral leaf spring. The leaf springs bear upon the base portions of folding tool blades that are pivotably pinned to the frame. Attaching side scales to the frame creates upwardly and downwardly facing tool pockets. Other frames are shown in the form of a channel with an integral external flange extending outwardly from the top of a channel wall in a direction away from the channel. Pivot pins extending through the channel and out the channel wall carry pivoting tool blades. An integral leaf spring on the external flange bears against the base of a blade pivotably connected to the frame outside of the channel. Other tool blades are carried inside the channel and pivot about the pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20080163433
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool is provided that includes a carabiner and that is designed to fold into a closed position that is relatively compact. As such, the carabiner of the multipurpose tool can be utilized to secure the multipurpose tool to a user, such as to a belt loop or the like, while permitting the multipurpose tool to be folded into a compact form. A handle that includes a carabiner and that can be utilized by such a multipurpose tool as well as a method of forming the handle are also provided. Still further, a multipurpose tool is provided that includes a handle defining a pocket for storing at least one bit in instances in which the bit is not engaged by the bit driver, thereby reducing the likelihood that the bit will be lost or otherwise separated from the multipurpose tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: John Nenadic
  • Publication number: 20080104765
    Abstract: A hand tool comprising a first member having a handle with fixed jaw, a jaw face and a first pivot portion, the first pivot portion defining a first pivot hole having a center positioned at a distance from the fixed jaw face second end within the range of about 10 to 15 millimeters; a second member having a slot, a handle, a second pivot portion, a recess, and a worm gear rotatably received in the recess; a pivot pin pivotally connecting the first and second pivot holes and having a diameter within the range of about 6 to 10 millimeters; a sliding jaw having a face, and a gear rack slidably received by the second member slot and engaging the worm gear; and a detent selectively movable to prevent the pivotal movement of the first and second members with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Peng Li, Fengping Zhu
  • Patent number: 7363669
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool including adjustable locking pliers with an over-center locking mechanism to retain the jaws in a gripping condition. The jaws of the locking pliers can be folded into the handles of the tool to produce a compact folded configuration. A latch mechanism in the tool handle retains a selected one of several folding tool bits or blades in an extended position for use and includes an abutment arrangement to prevent such a selected tool bit from being extended too far. A spring associated with a tool bit driving socket retains separate tool bits and resists inadvertent removal of an adjustment screw element of the locking pliers. Upon removal of the adjustment screw element, special bits, such as a corkscrew, can be screwed into the tool bit driving socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Berg, Timothy S. Leatherman, Benjamin C. Rivera, Reinhard Srajer
  • Patent number: 7353736
    Abstract: A multi-function hand tool with a pivotally collapsible jaw-type tool that has a jaw lock which mechanically prevents the jaw-type tool from collapse is disclosed. The jaw lock mechanism is contained within the jaw pivot joint of the jaw-type tool, and may be partially extended as a push button to prevent unwanted handle collapse. A plurality of blades are pivotally attached to the opposite end of the multi-function tool and has a blade locking mechanism wherein the blade lock is pivoted about an axis located distal to the blade fastener/pivot axis. Each handle of the multi-function tool may be made of two individual handle halves that unite to form the handle, but that provide very precise tensioning, or the handles may be of a single channel shape using an infinitely adjustable threaded fastener and sleeve to provide precise adjustment of the multiple blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul W. Poehlmann
  • Patent number: 7347128
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose hand tool including a pivoted latch that engages side walls of a handle and a base of a folding tool member to hold the folding tool member in a selection position. A separate safety interlock latch keeps a folding blade stowed in a handle when another tool is moved from a first position with respect to the handle. A tool bit holder securely holds and drives reduced thickness tool bits that can also be engaged in and driven by conventional sockets having a regular hexagonal shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2008
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin C. Rivera, Hollan A. Tsuda, Nathan E. Knight, Melissa C. Yale, Glenn Klecker, Reinhard Srajer
  • Patent number: 7249390
    Abstract: A multipurpose folding hand tool including a tool holder permitting exchanges of blades. The tool may include a folding scissors including a spring that is moved into operative engagement with a scissors handle to open the scissors handles apart from each other only as the scissors approaches an extended, operative position with respect to the handle of the folding land tool, within which it may be stowed. A resilient grip member is incorporated in one of the handles of the folding multipurpose hand tool. A wire cutter and a crimping tool are located on pliers jaw tangs, between the pliers pivot and the foldable handles of the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Melissa C. Yale, Hollan A. Tsuda, Glenn Klecker, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7213283
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose hand tool including folding pliers or scissors and other tool blades and bits. A pair of handles each has a pivot axle at each end. A base of each pliers jaw or scissors blade is mounted on the pivot axle at one end of a handle, allowing the handles to fold around the jaws to blades to a compact folded configuration of the tool. Each handle has frame side members with attached flanges. Elongate springs lie between the handle frame side members and fit around the flanges, rather than being riveted to the handle frame side members. The springs press against the base of each pliers jaw or other tool blade, to keep each in a folded position or support it in a deployed position. One end of a spring may be hooked around a spring retainer at one end of the handle. The pivot axles interconnect the handle frame side members and the jaws, blades, or tool bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7204022
    Abstract: A scissors-action tool whose blades or jaws are urged apart by a spring and which includes an adjustable member restricting opening movement to a limited blade or jaw separation angle during normal use of the tool, but allowing the blades or jaws to be opened to a wider angle when the adjustable member is moved to a rearward position. The adjustable member may be a rocker including an elongated hole permitting the rocker to be moved rearwardly from a normal position of engagement with a rocker pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Hollan Akio Tsuda
  • Patent number: 7182001
    Abstract: A frame member for the handle of a folding knife or multipurpose tool includes an integral flange with an integral leaf spring. Frames are shown in the form of a channel with an integral external flange extending outwardly from the top of a channel wall in a direction away from the channel. Pivot pins extending through the channel and out the channel wall carry pivoting tool blades. An integral leaf spring on the external flange bears against the base of a blade pivotably connected to the frame outside of the channel. Other tool blades are carried inside the channel and pivot about the pivot pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7150210
    Abstract: A multi-purpose folding tool including a pair of folding scissors, in which a scissors blade is movable about a pivot shaft, between a stowed position and a deployed position. A rocker is moved by a spring in the tool handle and urges a movable scissors blade toward an open position. In one embodiment two handles are folded about respective scissors blades to house the blades, and four springs hold the handles together with the folded scissors stowed within the handles. Protruding ears overlap and are located along side each other to hold the handles in place with respect to each other during use of screwdriver blades. When the tool is folded it has a smooth outside configuration allowing it to be carried in a pocket without causing undue wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Berg, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7146668
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose hand tool including folding pliers or scissors and other tool blades and bits. A pair of handles each has a pivot axle at each end. A base of each pliers jaw or scissors blade is mounted on the pivot axle at one end of a handle, allowing the handles to fold around the jaws to blades to a compact folded configuration of the tool. Each handle has frame side members with attached flanges. Elongate springs lie between the handle frame side members and fit around the flanges, rather than being riveted to the handle frame side members. The springs press against the base of each pliers jaw or other tool blade, to keep each in a folded position or support it in a deployed position. One end of a spring may be hooked around a spring retainer at one end of the handle. The pivot axles interconnect the handle frame side members and the jaws, blades, or tool bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7103934
    Abstract: A multipurpose combination pliers includes a first and second insulated handles alternately and movably joined together by a rivet, a toothed jaw at the fore end of each of the handles, a rectangular connector at the rear end of the first insulated handle for engaging a cylindrical box wrench thereon and a U-shaped connector on the rear end of the second insulated handle for rotatably engaged with a rectangular adapter which is able to engage a smaller box wrench and can be laterally rotated for about 180 degrees relative to the U-shaped connector, an arcuate electric cords stripper communicated with a internally threaded through hole at front portion of the pliers. The feature is that this disclosure not only performs clamping and stripping functions but also conducts as a box wrench to drive addition object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Inventors: Eric Hsu, Dale E. Bjerke
  • Patent number: 7089619
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool includes a plurality of elongate handles and a plurality of jaw members pivotally connected to same. A plurality of locking mechanisms are disposed adjacent one opposed end portion of the plurality of handles respectively and preferably include a guide tube and a sliding member including an elongate lower portion selectively movable within the guide tube. A spring member is disposed about the elongate lower portion and limits the movement of the sliding member between relaxed and stretched positions so that plurality of auxiliary tools can be moved between corresponding locked and unlocked positions respectively. A punch tool is removably engageable with the plurality of jaw members and includes a chuck for cutting wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Inventor: Shawn R. Smith
  • Patent number: 7080423
    Abstract: A hand tool such as a knife or a combination tool includes multiple blades, each independently rotatable on a common axle between a closed position within a handle of the tool and an open position extending from the handle. Each blade is positively but releasably locked into its open position. Those blades which remain closed are biased toward the closed position when the opened blade is locked into position and also as it is opened and closed. A single locking, releasing, and biasing mechanism serves all of the blades in one handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett P. Seber, Randolph J. Morton, Gabriel Alejandro Draguicevich, Roy L. Helton, Jr., Gregory F. Rubin
  • Patent number: 7065819
    Abstract: A multi-purpose combination hand tool useful for maintaining and attachment of horse shoes has two pivotally interengagement jaw members that define a number of user specific tool elements therebetween in a single tool configuration. The hand tool can be used as a shoe puller, nipping tool, nail clincher and nail puller as well as a hammer and hoof pick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Assignee: Trailsmith, Ltd.
    Inventor: Robert Minniti
  • Patent number: 7051627
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool incorporating a latch release mechanism including a lever, a cam, and a rocker-shaped grip body to easily effect release of a catch for holding knife or screwdriver blades extended. spring and cams are arranged to hold a pair of handles either extended or folded with respect to the tangs of a pair of pliers jaws or the like. The handles include inwardly directed comfortable rounded rims. Portions of folding blades interlock with other folding blades on an opposite handle when the tool is folded, to stabilize the handles while using a knife or screwdriver. Blades of folding scissors include edges that are serrated only near their tips. A container opener includes a hook defining a recessed throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 7039974
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool including adjustable locking pliers with an over-center locking mechanism to retain the jaws in a gripping condition. The jaws of the locking pliers can be folded into the handles of the tool to produce a compact folded configuration. A latch mechanism in the tool handle retains a selected one of several folding tool bits or blades in an extended position for use and includes an abutment arrangement to prevent such a selected tool bit from being extended too far. A spring associated with a tool bit driving socket retains separate tool bits and resists inadvertent removal of an adjustment screw element of the locking pliers. Upon removal of the adjustment screw element, special bits, such as a corkscrew, can be screwed into the tool bit driving socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Howard G. Berg
  • Patent number: 7020922
    Abstract: A multipurpose hand tool with folding handles each including a central channel to receive pliers jaws or the like when the tool is folded, and including troughs holding outer blades alongside the central channel so that the outer blades can be opened without unfolding the tool. The troughs face opposite the direction of the central channels, and the bases of the outer troughs act as comfortable places to grip the handles when they are extended for use of the pliers. Blade locking mechanisms are incorporated in the walls of the central channels to lock each of the outer blades in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6990702
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool incorporating a latch release mechanism including a lever, a cam, and a rocker-shaped grip body to easily effect release of a catch for holding knife or screwdriver blades extended. A spring and cams are arranged to hold each of a pair of handles either extended or folded with respect to the tangs of a pair of pliers jaws or the like. The handles include inwardly directed comfortable rounded rims. Portions of folding blades interlock with other folding blades on an opposite handle when the tool is folded, to stabilize the handles while using a knife or screwdriver. Blades of folding scissors include edges that are serrated only near their tips. A container opener includes a hook defining a recessed throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6983506
    Abstract: A universal, interchangeable attachment system, comprising various tool operator heads, removable/interchangeable handles, removable/replaceable tools and tool bits, hex drive, and clamp for securing tools. An electronic subsystem provides an alternating current detector, an indicator, such as an LED or light bulb, and continuity circuit indicator. A reversible double helical drive enables a user to drive a screw or bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2006
    Inventor: Coffee Brown
  • Patent number: 6957466
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose hand tool including folding pliers or scissors and other tool blades and bits. A pair of handles each has a pivot axle at each end. A base of each pliers jaw or scissors blade is mounted on the pivot axle at one end of a handle, allowing the handles to fold around the jaws to blades to a compact folded configuration of the tool. Each handle has frame side members with attached flanges. Elongate springs lie between the handle frame side members and fit around the flanges, rather than being riveted to the handle frame side members. The springs press against the base of each pliers jaw or other tool blade, to keep each in a folded position or support it in a deployed position. One end of a spring may be hooked around a spring retainer at one end of the handle. The pivot axles interconnect the handle frame side members and the jaws, blades, or tool bits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6948409
    Abstract: The preferred embodiments relate to a multipurpose hand device especially comprising utensils. A lift and/or release mechansim is assigned to said utensils, enabling them to be placed in a slightly raised position so that they can be grasped easily or locked in a swing-out position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Ctech AG
    Inventors: Peter Ackeret, Pierre-Alain Jeandupeux, Yves Wira, Rolf Nussbaumer, Claude Kottelat
  • Patent number: 6904634
    Abstract: A multipurpose 1911 pistol servicing tool consisting of two pliers heads pivotably assembled together with each pliers head having pivotably affixed to it a three-sided handle and with one handle having pivotably affixed to it and within it a series of screwdriver blade components and a file component and with the other handle having pivotably affixed to it and within it, a pair of accessory punch components, a hexagonal driver component and a round file component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Inventor: Gary H. Smith
  • Patent number: 6862764
    Abstract: A multi-tool having a pair of jaws pivotally mounted to each other. Each jaw has a grip head and rear extension. A hollow handle pivotally mounted on each of the rear extensions. Each hollow handle has a rear end and a front end and is pivotally mounted to rear extension at its front end. The jaws being pivotally foldable relative to the handles from a folded position to an unfolded position. A flashlight is pivotally mounted on one of the hollow handles and is pivotally movable from a closed position within the hollow handle to an open position outside of the hollow handle, a plurality of auxiliary tools mounted on a pivot at the rear end of the other hollow handle and moveable from a closed position within the hollow handle to an open position outside the hollow handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Great Neck Saw Manufacturers, Inc.
    Inventor: Qiu Jian Ping
  • Patent number: 6857154
    Abstract: A multipurpose hand tool with folding handles each including a central channel to receive pliers jaws or the like when the tool is folded, and including troughs holding outer blades alongside the central channel so that the outer blades can be opened without unfolding the tool. The troughs face opposite the direction of the central channels, and the bases of the outer troughs act as comfortable places to grip the handles when they are extended for use of the pliers. Blade locking mechanisms are incorporated in the walls of the central channels to lock each of the outer blades in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20040255389
    Abstract: A hand tool such as a knife or a combination tool includes multiple blades, each independently rotatable on a common axle between a closed position within a handle of the tool and an open position extending from the handle. Each blade is positively but releasably locked into its open position. Those blades which remain closed are biased toward the closed position when the opened blade is locked into position and also as it is opened and closed. A single locking, releasing, and biasing mechanism serves all of the blades in one handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2004
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventors: Brett P. Seber, Randolph J. Morton, Gabriel Alejandro Draguicevich, Roy L. Helton, Gregory F. Rubin
  • Publication number: 20040237207
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool incorporating a latch release mechanism including a lever, a cam, and a rocker-shaped grip body to easily effect release of a catch for holding knife or screwdriver blades extended. A spring and cams are arranged to hold each of a pair of handles either extended or folded with respect to the tangs of a pair of pliers jaws or the like. The handles include inwardly directed comfortable rounded rims. Portions of folding blades interlock with other folding blades on an opposite handle when the tool is folded, to stabilize the handles while using a knife or screwdriver. Blades of folding scissors include edges that are serrated only near their tips. A container opener includes a hook defining a recessed throat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2004
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20040211007
    Abstract: A multi-tool having a pair of jaws pivotally mounted to each other. Each jaw has a grip head and rear extension. A hollow handle pivotally mounted on each of the rear extensions. Each hollow handle has a rear end and a front end and is pivotally mounted to rear extension at its front end. The jaws being pivotally foldable relative to the handles from a folded position to an unfolded position. A flashlight is pivotally mounted on one of the hollow handles and is pivotally movable from a closed position within the hollow handle to an open position outside of the hollow handle, a plurality of auxiliary tools mounted on a pivot at the rear end of the other hollow handle and moveable from a closed position within the hollow handle to an open position outside the hollow handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Publication date: October 28, 2004
    Applicant: Great Neck Saw Manufacturers, Inc.
    Inventor: Qiu Jian Ping
  • Patent number: 6802094
    Abstract: A hand tool such as a knife or a combination tool includes multiple blades, each independently rotatable on a common axle between a closed position within a handle of the tool and an open position extending from the handle. Each blade is positively but releasably locked into its open position. Those blades which remain closed are biased toward the closed position when the opened blade is locked into position and also as it is opened and closed. A single locking, releasing, and biasing mechanism serves all of the blades in one handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett P. Seber, Randolph J. Morton, Gabriel Alejandro Draguicevich, Roy L. Helton, Jr., Gregory F. Rubin
  • Patent number: 6779425
    Abstract: The preferred embodiments relate to a multipurpose hand device especially comprising utensils. A lift and/or release mechansim is assigned to said utensils, enabling them to be placed in a slightly raised position so that they can be grasped easily or locked in a swing-out position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: CTECH AG
    Inventors: Peter Ackeret, Pierre-Alain Jeandupeux, Yves Wira, Rolf Nussbaumer, Claude Kottelat
  • Patent number: 6779212
    Abstract: An adaptor to mate with a hand tool such as a folding multipurpose tool to make use of the multipurpose tool as a handle to turn tool bits of various sizes, such as screwdrivers or small socket wrenches. The adaptor includes a drive plate which mates with the hand tool, and a tool bit-engaging member attached to the drive plate and movable angularly between various positions, with a latch to keep the tool bit-engaging member in a selected position. A pair of arms of the drive plate engage the sides of the jaws of one type of multipurpose tool to locate the adaptor as required with respect to the multipurpose tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig Anderson, Howard G. Berg
  • Patent number: 6769331
    Abstract: A multi-purpose folding tool including a pair of folding scissors, in which a scissors blade is movable about a pivot shaft, between a stowed position and a deployed position. A rocker is moved by a spring in the tool handle and urges a movable scissors blade toward an open position. In one embodiment two handles are folded about respective scissors blades to house the blades, and four springs hold the handles together with the folded scissors stowed within the handles. A pair of tweezers of sheet metal includes a pair of parallel arms each perpendicular to a base portion of the tweezers. When the scissors and other tools are folded into their stowed positions in the handle of the multi-purpose tool of the invention the tool has a smooth outside configuration allowing the tool to be carried in a pocket without causing undue wear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Berg, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6763543
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool incorporating a latch release mechanism including a lever, a cam, and a rocker-shaped grip body to easily effect release of a catch for holding knife or screwdriver blades extended. A spring and cams are arranged to hold each of a pair of handles either extended or folded with respect to the tangs of a pair of pliers jaws or the like. The handles include inwardly directed comfortable rounded rims. Portions of folding blades interlock with other folding blades on an opposite handle when the tool is folded, to stabilize the handles while using a knife or screwdriver. Blades of folding scissors include edges that are serrated only near their tips. A container opener includes a hook defining a recessed throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6725748
    Abstract: A collapsible pliers where a jaw assembly is mounted between a pair of handles. The jaw assembly is movable relative to the handles from a retracted position to an extended position which will permit the jaw assembly to move to an open position and the jaw assembly used in a conventional manner by squeezing of the handles to move the jaw assembly from the open position to a gripping position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Awi Acquisition Company
    Inventor: Yi Chuan Tseng
  • Patent number: 6721983
    Abstract: A multi-function tool includes two channel-shaped handles having a first side wall and a second side wall forming a channel therebetween. An interlocking mechanism includes a first plate extending from the first side wall, and a second plate extending from the second side wall. The handles can be releasably engageable by alignment of at least one post of one of the handles with at least one notch of the other handle. The multi-function tool also includes an interchangeable implement and a pair of handles with implement engaging means. An axle assembly can extend transversely through openings formed in the first and second plates and includes a first end member, a second end member, a pair of buttons and a spring. The interchangeable implement can be pivotally attached to the axle. Alternatively, the implement can be releasably coupled to the handles by a latch. The latch can include a rocker with a locking tab that is biased into locking engagement with the implement by a spring plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Edgar A. Dallas, Phillip A. Montague
  • Patent number: 6721984
    Abstract: A multifunction tool includes a pair of handles, each handle having two side walls and a plate connecting the two side walls. A pair of jaws is coupled to the handles, each jaw having at least one pin extending therefrom. A slot is disposed in at least one side wall, the slot configured to receive the pin, whereby the jaws are slidably coupled to the handles such that the jaws have a retracted position and an extended position. At least one ancillary tool is coupled to one of the handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan W. Harrison
  • Patent number: 6718585
    Abstract: A folding multi-tool comprising first and second generally channel-shaped handles each having first and second ends, each generally channel-shaped handle having an open side and an at least partly closed side opposite the open side, the at least partly closed sides comprising plier-receiving openings. The folding multi-tool also includes pliers including first and second plier halves pivotally and adjustably mounted to each other, with the plier halves being pivotally mounted between flanges at the first ends of the handles. Control straps extend between the flanges for limiting the maximum pivotal movement of the plier halves and for frictionally resisting pivotal movement of the plier halves. The folding multi-tool is foldable between a closed, compact configuration and an opened, extended configuration for operating the pliers and in the opened, extended configuration the open sides of the handles face each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Herman J. McIntosh, Ken E. Griffey, Greg Cook
  • Patent number: 6694558
    Abstract: A foldable tool having a pair of jaws pivoted to each other on a pivot pin, each jaw having a head and a shank, a spring mounted between the shanks of the jaws, a hollow handle pivotally mounted at one end to each of the shanks and foldable relative to the jaws. The hollow handle having a plurality of auxiliary tools pivotally mounted therewithin, the spring adapted to keep the jaws in a partially open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Great Neck Saw Manufacturers, Inc.
    Inventor: Qiu Jian Ping
  • Publication number: 20040031105
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool including adjustable locking pliers with an over-center locking mechanism to retain the jaws in a gripping condition. The jaws of the locking pliers can be folded into the handles of the tool to produce a compact folded configuration. A latch mechanism in the tool handle retains a selected one of several folding tool bits or blades in an extended position for use and includes an abutment arrangement to prevent such a selected tool bit from being extended too far. A spring associated with a tool bit driving socket retains separate tool bits and resists inadvertent removal of an adjustment screw element of the locking pliers. Upon removal of the adjustment screw element, special bits, such as a corkscrew, can be screwed into the tool bit driving socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Howard G. Berg
  • Patent number: 6691357
    Abstract: A folding multipurpose tool including adjustable locking pliers with an over-center locking mechanism to retain the jaws in a gripping condition. The jaws of the locking pliers can be folded into the handles of the tool to produce a compact folded configuration. A latch mechanism in the tool handle retains a selected one of several folding tool bits or blades in an extended position for use and includes an abutment arrangement to prevent such a selected tool bit from being extended too far. A spring associated with a tool bit driving socket retains separate tool bits and resists inadvertent removal of an adjustment screw element of the locking pliers. Upon removal of the adjustment screw element, special bits, such as a corkscrew, can be screwed into the tool bit driving socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Publication number: 20040019974
    Abstract: A multi-function tool includes a head and a pair of handles. The head has a first jaw and a second jaw, each having a working portion and a tang. The handles have a folded configuration and an unfolded configuration. A spring in the head biases the working portions apart from one another such that the handles are biased in an open position when the handles are in the unfolded configuration and the handles are biased in a closed position when the handles are in the folded configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Applicant: Alterra Holdings Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip A. Montague, Edgar A. Dallas, Bradford Parrish, Peter Whitlock, Paul W. Poehlmann, Charlie Alfaro, John Nason