Holders Or Handles Patents (Class 7/167)
  • Patent number: 7254856
    Abstract: A carabiner tool assembly is provided. The tool assembly comprises in one embodiment a body portion for storing a tool having a longitudinal length and a carabiner assembly. The body portion comprises an outside shell forming an interior chamber and an opening extending through the outside shell through to the interior chamber, the opening being sized to be only slightly larger than needed to pass the tool through in a direction along the longitudinal length of the tool. The carabiner assembly comprises a first leg having a selectively openable gate assembly, the first leg extending from a first section of the body portion. A second leg extends from a second section of the body portion and a third leg extends between and connects the first and second legs, wherein the first, second and third legs of the carabiner assembly define another opening. The carabiner assembly can also have only two legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Forever Green Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: Edward Goldberg
  • Patent number: 7156839
    Abstract: A multi-instrument surgical tool for use during hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery includes a housing having a plurality of ports disposed therein which are each dimensioned to slidingly house one of a plurality of surgical instruments for selective deployment from the case. The housing also includes a corresponding plurality of elongated channels each in communication with a respective one of the plurality of ports. Each of the instruments including an actuator which is movable within a respective channel from a first position wherein the instrument is at least partially housed within the housing to a second position wherein the actuator is disengaged from the respective channel and the actuator is freely operable to actuate the instrument for its intended purpose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Tyco Healthcare Group LP
    Inventors: Hanspeter R. Bayer, Russell Heinrich
  • Patent number: 7152511
    Abstract: A polychrome transparent tool handle comprises a base, an identifying member, a plug, an ear member, a plurality of arcuate members and a cladding layer. The colors of the identifying member, the arcuate members and the cladding layer are different, the handle is made of light-transmitting plastic and interiorly received the identifying member, so that the identifying member is visible from the outside of the base of the identifying member. The ear member and the plug are disposed at an end of the base, while at another end of the base is fixed a tool head. The arcuate members are positioned on the peripheral surface of the base and are laminated with a cladding layer, and the arcuate members partially projects out of the cladding layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Inventor: Shy Fen Fen
  • Patent number: 7121049
    Abstract: A device that is used to pull a stake from a newly poured concrete slab. This device allows for attachment to a concrete pole, a tool that is commonly possessed and used by most concrete contractors. It contains a flexible loop that is used for the removal of stakes from the inside of a perimeter of a newly poured concrete slab. The loop of the device is placed so that it encircles the shaft of a concrete stake. A worker rotates the concrete pole until the loop twists enough to tightly hold onto the stake. The stake is then pulled from the ground and lifted up, over, and to the outside of the perimeter of the slab. The invention may include adjustment means to allow its efficient use with stakes of different thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventors: Jack H. Cohen, Bob C. Brooks
  • Patent number: 7111349
    Abstract: A carabiner tool assembly is provided. The tool assembly comprises in one embodiment a body portion for storing a tool having a longitudinal length and a carabiner assembly. The body portion comprises an outside shell forming an interior chamber and an opening extending through the outside shell through to the interior chamber, the opening being sized to be only slightly larger than needed to pass the tool through in a direction along the longitudinal length of the tool. The carabiner assembly comprises a first leg having a selectively openable gate assembly, the first leg extending from a first section of the body portion. A second leg extends from a second section of the body portion and a third leg extends between and connects the first and second legs, wherein the first, second and third legs of the carabiner assembly define another opening. The carabiner assembly can also have only two legs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Assignee: Forever Green Holdings LLC
    Inventor: Edward Goldberg
  • Patent number: 7111533
    Abstract: A multiple bit screwdriver comprising a plurality of tool bits, an elongate member defining an axial passage adapted to receive said bits therein positioned tip to end so that the foremost bit operably extends from the passage and is rotatable with the elongate member, first and second retainers connected to the elongate member near each end of the passage and extending radially inward into the passage to engage frictionally the foremost and last bits to prevent said bits from falling out of either end, and a motion restricting member within the passage having an expandable engagement portion that cooperates with at least one tool bit to permit the movement of bits within the passage in one direction only. The engagement portion is expandable in response a tool bit being pushed therethrough in one direction, but resists expanding when a tool bit is being pushed in the opposite direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2006
    Inventor: Yaar Ran
  • Patent number: 7100288
    Abstract: A set of cutlery includes a plurality of superimposable cutlery components, which are adapted to be releasably connected so as to form a transportable unit. In order to facilitate the handling of such cutlery, it is suggested that the cutlery components should be accommodated in a protective housing and that they should be releasably secured to the protective housing by a connection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: WMF Wuerttembergische Metallwarenfabrik AG
    Inventors: Claudia Köhler, Volker Battke
  • Patent number: 7077540
    Abstract: An emergency light set is disclosed to include a bottom cover shell covered with a top cover shell, a lamp mounted in the front side of the bottom cover shell, a mini power generator mounted in the bottom cover shell and electrically connected to the lamp, a rechargeable battery for providing electricity to the lamp, a transmission gear set, and a tool handle detachably mounted in the top cover shell and connectable to the input shaft of the transmission gear set for operation by the user to rotate the transmission gear set and to further drive the mini power generator to generate electricity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Inventor: Jen-Yen Yen
  • Patent number: 7013516
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a hammer having a number of accessories including a storage cavity adapted to efficiently and conveniently hold tools, supplies, and the like and/or an additional number of accessories. The hammer comprises a hammer head having a front portion adapted for striking a nail or a tack, and a handle having a longitudinal extending cavity therein. A tray tailored to fit and slide within the longitudinal extending cavity is provided and is adapted to support a plurality of accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Ready Products, Inc.
    Inventor: David L. Peters
  • Patent number: 6948208
    Abstract: This is a combination shovel and knife device for for campers and survival training. It will be lightweight yet durable and can be folded for easy storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventor: Eva Lee Ann Schlenner
  • Patent number: 6922864
    Abstract: A multi purpose hand tool includes an elongate generally cylindrical handle having opposite first and second ends. The handle is adapted for grasping by a user and has a hole through the handle located substantially mid-way along the length of the handle. The hole extends through the handle so that a digit of the user's hand, when grasping the handle, may be inserted through the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Inventors: Gary Richard Clarke, Jim Keller, Bob Storz
  • Patent number: 6751820
    Abstract: A detachable combination tool includes a first body, a second body, two locking blocks, and an elastic member. Thus, the second body can be detached from the first body easily and conveniently, so that the second body and the first body can be used independently, thereby facilitating the user operating the combination tool. In addition, the detachable combination tool can withstand a larger torque or force during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Shuh Wu
  • Patent number: 6749318
    Abstract: A hand tool includes a highly focused light as well as a display. The hand tool can include a plurality of different tools, and includes a polygonal housing and a conical nose section as well as an easily gripped outer surface which includes gripping protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Josue Palacios
  • Patent number: 6742264
    Abstract: A limb trimmer apparatus is provided comprising a blade releasably secured to a housing assembly. The housing assembly comprises a housing having first and second flat sides for alternatively securing the blade to the housing assembly in desired extended or storage positions. A clamp and fastener may be provided for selectively securing the blade to one of the first or second flat sides. The blade being secured to the second flat side may be loosened and rotated about the fastener selectively between an extended position and a storage position. The blade being secured to the first flat side may be removed from its extended position in securement thereto and repositioned against the second flat side in the storage position. The clamp is configured with a recess to receive the handle end of the blade and the first or second flat side in either an extended or storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher Urion
  • Patent number: 6705654
    Abstract: The invention known as the “Frisbee golf disc retriever and more ” is a fold-up type of extension rod being comprised of several tubular sections having slip-joint type connections which are pulled together by an elastic type of cord being laced through the center of all the tubular sections and being anchored in a partially tensioned state at each end piece section of tubing by means of a knot or any feasible type of cord end device, a handle, a double ended coupler device which also houses a tie strap device, and a nail-head type hook device for retrieving Frisbee golf discs and the like. Other readily attachable tools include a J-hook device, a net device, a magnetic pick-up device, a feather duster device, an ornament hanger device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Inventor: L. Johnny Slauf
  • Patent number: 6643877
    Abstract: A tool set having a screwdriver handle with a chuck for insertion and latched mounting of screwing-tool inserts provided with standard polygonal shank segments, and having screwing-tool inserts, which are insertable into the chuck and are provided with the standard polygonal shank segments, in particular bits, nuts or ratchets and extensions for drive of the latter, comprising a supplementary tool which has a plier head (2) and a plier-handle projection (4) which is disposed immediately behind a knuckle joint (5) and is in form of the standard shank segment of the screwing-tool inserts, the screwdriver handle (9) latches to the plier-handle projection by its chuck (10), forming one of two plier arms and a blade extension (11) which likewise has a chuck (10), forming other of the two plier arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Wera Werk Hermann Werner GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Klaus Amtenbrink, Axel Fach, Sylvester Rosanwo, Martin Strauch, Michael Abel
  • Patent number: 6640675
    Abstract: A tool kit includes a body, a socket and a positioning device. The body includes a first end, a second end and a chamber defined therein. The socket is used for holding a tool bit. The socket is pivotally connected with the first end of the body. The positioning device selectively can retain the socket in one of several positions relative to the body. The positioning device may include a boss formed on the first end of the body and a plurality of recesses defined in an internal face of the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 6640370
    Abstract: A hand tool includes a handle sized and provided with an outer shape and finish to be comfortably grabbed and manually turned, and a shank extending from one end of the handle coaxially therewith. The shank is formed with a chip-engaging free end portion in the form of self-threading or self-tapping threads that continue to and terminate in a point at the free end thereof. A pile of chips at the bottom of a blind tapped hole is removed by inserting the free end of the threaded shank into the hole until the chips are encountered, turning the tool while applying a slight pressure such that the free end of the tool threads into the pile of chips, and then pulling the free end of the tool from the hole to remove the chips threaded thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2003
    Inventor: Gary Kiefer
  • Patent number: 6339858
    Abstract: A hammer tool that has a handle member with grip and head ends. The head end includes a head assembly mounted thereon at an angle to give a user sufficient clearance for his/her hand grip when using the claw assembly built-in in the face. A blade assembly is removably mounted on the head assembly opposite the face and claw assembly. A magnetic member is inserted in the face portion to facilitate the manipulation of ferromagnetic nails. A holder with a frame and a loop is provided to support the hammer. The frame includes a hook member to which a headed engagement pin is removably mounted. When the hammer is mounted to the holder, the handle is kept at a convenient distance from a user's hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2002
    Inventors: Juan Carlos Fraga, Roberto Riera
  • Patent number: 6233770
    Abstract: A device which contains a combination of a writing implement, stylus, or turning tool on one end and a turning tool rod on the other. The device contains a hollow casing, a forward end tip containing a central passageway for extension and retraction of a forward work piece and a rearward tip containing a central passageway for extension and retraction of a turning tool rod. The forward work piece is reversible and contains a writing point or a turning tool. The turning tool rod is reversible and contains a turning tool at each end. One device contains a single extension/extraction slot having forward, medial, and rearward openings or notches. In this alternative, the device contains actuator guide pins or latch pins which allow only the forward work piece, only the tool rod, or neither of these to be extended at any one time. Alternatively, the device contains forward and rearward extension/retraction slots, each having forward and rearward openings or notches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2001
    Inventor: Frank Garcia
  • Patent number: 6226822
    Abstract: A tool structure including two grips and a tool head. By way of an opening of a first pivot section of the grip, the first pivot sections of the grips can be separated, permitting the grips to be folded to two sides of the tool head. This reduces the room occupied by the tool and facilitates storage and carriage of the tool. The first pivot sections of the grips are spaced from the second pivot sections of the tool head by a certain distance to form a double-lever structure and prolong the length of the force application arm so as to save strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Inventor: Jin-Fu Chen
  • Patent number: 6219870
    Abstract: A lock release mechanism for a folding combination tool having a plurality of supplemental tools (e.g., a knife, screwdriver, can opener, etc.) mounted at the free end of a generally U-shaped handle for rotation from a storage position within the handle to an extended “in use” position outside the handle. The locking mechanism is characterized by a leaf spring formed at the free end of the handle that lockingly engages the mounting end or shank of one or more of the supplemental tools when such tool is rotated from the handle to its fully extended position for use. The lock release mechanism preferably includes a bulge, formed on a different supplemental tool, that extends outside the handle so that the bulge may be depressed into the handle by a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Imperial Schrade Corp.
    Inventors: David A. Swinden, James Quinn, Robert Andersen
  • Patent number: 6192539
    Abstract: A hammer tool that has a handle member with grip and head ends. The head end includes a head assembly mounted thereon at an angle to give a user sufficient clearance for his/her hand grip when using the claw assembly built-in in the face. A blade assembly is removably mounted on the head assembly opposite the face and claw assembly. A magnetic member is inserted in the face portion to facilitate the manipulation of ferromagnetic nails. A holder with a frame and a loop is provided to support the hammer. The frame includes a hook member to which a headed engagement pin is removably mounted. When the hammer is mounted to the holder, the handle is kept at a convenient distance from a user's hands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventors: Juan Carlos Fraga, Roberto Riera
  • Patent number: 6170894
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a glass pane lifter apparatus includes a hollow handle which includes an access opening, an elbow member that includes a first elbow end that connects to the access opening of the hollow handle, and a suction cup unit that is connected to the elbow member. The suction cup includes a suction release tab. The elbow member is a right-angled elbow. The hollow handle includes a finger reception contoured region. A chisel member is connected to the hollow handle. The chisel member projects from the hollow handle at an end of the hollow handle opposite to the access opening. A container of lubricant retainable inside the hollow handle. In addition, a glass cutter is retainable inside the hollow handle. The glass pane lifter apparatus and the contained glass cutter and/or container of lubricant provide a kit for maintenance of fire extinguishers retained in fire extinguisher enclosures that include glass panes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventors: Rhonda Baker, Carl Spelic
  • Patent number: 6145144
    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. At least one of the first plates has a periphery with a notch formed therein. At least one of the second side walls has a post extending therefrom. Each handle is 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 including a pair of handles with implement engaging means. An axle assembly extends transversely through the 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 spring is disposed between each of the buttons to bias the buttons into engagement with the end members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Alterra Holdings Corporation
    Inventors: Paul W. Poehlmann, Phillip A. Montague
  • Patent number: 6131222
    Abstract: A combination trowel and screwdriver is provided wherein the trowel handle houses and removably retains a tool bit drive assembly which houses a plurality of tool bit or screw drives. The user pivots the tool bit drive assembly housing away from the handle to a position extending in the proximate direction from the handle. The user then selects the desired tool bit drive for insertion at the proximate end of the assembly and with the proximate end of the handle screws the screw into a recessed position in a wallboard construction. The user then retracts or repivots the tool bit drive assembly into the handle, and then with the trowel end putties or spreads a wallboard plastic or finishing material over the recessed screw head to finish the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6112418
    Abstract: Safety shears which include two arms connected by a pin, each arm including a cutting blade and a handle, wherein at least one of the handles includes a weakened portion such that in operation that handle will break before either cutting blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Plato Products, Inc.
    Inventor: William H. Strater
  • Patent number: 6042078
    Abstract: The wall hanger of the present invention is designed to minimize the damage done to a wall when hung thereon. The wall hanger has a plurality of narrow bores angling generally downward through which pleating pins may be inserted to anchor the wall hanger. The wall hanger additionally has a support member from which may be hung an object. The bores and support member are configured to maximize a proportion of gravitational stress transferred to the wall to relieve stress on the pins. A pilot tool is also disclosed that starts a hole in the wall through the bores in the hanger and then is used to push a pin through the bore, into the pretapped hole in the wall, and further into the wall until its head is flush with the hanger. A kit is provided that consists of a wall hanger and a mounting tool. In addition, a method is provided for mounting a wall hanger to a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Charles A. Donovan
  • Patent number: 6014785
    Abstract: There is provided a multi-purpose tool which comprises a paint brush having a bristle portion, a ferrule removable from the bristle portion, and a handle removable from the ferrule. When a cap at the free end of the handle is pivoted open, a pry blade is provided for removing a paint can lid. When the handle is removed from the ferrule, a reversible screwdriver inserted within a bore in the handle is provided for turning screws. When the ferrule is removed from the bristle portion, a scraper blade attached to the ferrule is provided for scraping a surface in preparation for painting. A belt mounted holster in also provided for permitting the user to carry the tool on his person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventors: David W. Punch, Shirley Ann Punch
  • Patent number: 6006384
    Abstract: A drywall knife with screwdriver is provided including a drywall blade and a handle coupled to the blade. The handle is equipped with a bore formed therein. A screwdriver is removably situated within the bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Kelly M. Toal
  • Patent number: 6003180
    Abstract: Cooperating jaws are pivoted together such that working end portions of the jaw members are movable toward and away from each other. The jaws have butt portions extending opposite the jaw pivot from the working end portions. Such butt portions are, in turn, pivoted to elongated handles for swinging about axes parallel to the axis of the jaw pivot. The handles are channel shaped and define recesses into which the interconnected jaw members can be swung so as to be nested in the handles or, alternatively, into which the interconnected jaw members can be retracted so as to be partially contained within the handles. The handles have forward portions interconnected by a link which, in an open position of the handles, is positioned between the handle pivots and the jaw pivot. For a given angle of swing of the handles, the jaws are moved through a smaller angle, i.e., a substantial mechanical advantage is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: SOG Specialty Knives, Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer Frazer
  • Patent number: 5996235
    Abstract: An ice axe which includes a handle/shaft having a gripping end and a working end, an axe head attached to the working end, and a grip attached to the gripping end. The working end of the handle/shaft is configured with a shorter cross-sectional dimension along an axis parallel to a plane in which the axe would be swung when used. The axe head includes a pick end and an oppositely disposed hammer end, with the hammer end including a sharp ridge protruding generally in the direction of the handle/shaft and transversely thereof so as to allow the hammer end to be used as a hook for ice pockets, rock ledges, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Black Diamond Equipment, Ltd.
    Inventor: Charles Brainerd
  • Patent number: 5956788
    Abstract: An easy to hold, single hand operated, foldable, multi-purpose painter's tool for use in performing a variety of tasks, such as scraping, spreading, cleaning, cutting, and can opening, encountered during painting. The tool includes an elongate handle having first and second side walls defining first and second edges and first and second ends, and a channel formed between the side walls and extending through the first edge. An elongate blade is secured by a pivot at a first end to the first end of the handle, permitting the blade to pivot between a folded position within the channel, and an extended position outside of the channel. The blade itself defines first and second side surfaces, first and second longitudinal edges and an orthogonal edge at a second end of the blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Warner Manufacturing Company
    Inventor: David R. Henke
  • Patent number: 5911481
    Abstract: This invention is a small saw for hunters in which the blade of the saw can be stored in a water tight compartment in the handle. The handle of the saw is a tube with a closed bottom and a threaded opening on the top. The tube is adapted to hold saw blades that are not being used. A cap with an o-ring and a thread bottom seal the handle water tight. On top of the cap is a semi-circular piece. Along both sides of the flat side of the semi-circular piece are grooves. In the middle of the flat side at the bottom of the flat side there is a threaded opening. Above the threaded opening in the middle is a small indent. The saw blade is placed on the flat side of the semi-circular piece. Over the saw blade is placed a U-shaped piece. The arms of the U fit within the ridges on the semi-circular piece. At the middle of the bottom of the U-shaped piece, is an opening that aligns with the threaded opening in the semi-circular piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventor: Timothy Yost
  • Patent number: 5865945
    Abstract: A handle for use with a pressure sensitive film applicator tool includes a main body having a shape that configured to be easily gripped by a users hand. The applicator tool is a specifically configured double edged squeegee designed to apply pressure sensitive films to a substrate. The applicator tool has two blade portions formed on opposite longitudinal edges of the applicator tool. The handle includes a receiving arrangement for receiving one of the blade portions of the applicator tool. The handle also includes a grip arrangement for gripping the applicator tool and holding the applicator tool within the handle when one of the blade portions of the applicator tool is positioned within the receiving arrangement of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Inventor: Drew B. McConaughy
  • Patent number: 5829082
    Abstract: A multi-functional hand tool is provided having a handle portion to be held by a user. The handle portion is made to receive a plurality of different types of tool attachments. To secure these tool attachments, a plurality of slots are machined into an attachment portion of the hand tool. The attachment portion is simply a rigid element which can receive, retain and rigidly secure one of the tool attachments within one of the slots. The slots are sized differently to accommodate various marketed tool attachments, such as jig saw blades, reciprocating saw blades, utility knives, et. al. Further, putty knives, and striking implements can be made bearing a suitable tang for engaging one of the slots. The device is meant to be used as an all purpose sawing, cutting, scraping, spreading and striking implement which would replace a great deal of expensive tools commonly needed by apartment dwellers, students, and "do-it-yourselfers".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Antonio Moreira
  • Patent number: 5809599
    Abstract: Cooperating jaws are pivoted together such that working end portions of the jaw members are movable toward and away from each other. The jaws have butt portions extending opposite the jaw pivot from the working end portions. Such butt portions are, in turn, pivoted to elongated handles for swinging about axes parallel to the axis of the jaw pivot. The handles are channel shaped and define recesses into which the interconnected jaw members can be swung so as to be nested in the handles or, alternatively, into which the interconnected jaw members can be retracted so as to be partially contained within the handles. The handles have forward portions interconnected by a link which, in an open position of the handles, is positioned between the handle pivots and the jaw pivot. For a given angle of swing of the handles, the jaws are moved through a smaller angle, i.e., a substantial mechanical advantage is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 22, 1998
    Assignee: SOG Specialty Knives, Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer Frazer
  • Patent number: 5781950
    Abstract: A multi-purpose folding tool which features a unique supplemental tool locking and release mechanism, inwardly tapered handles to provide external plier jaw storage, thereby leaving greater room for supplemental tool storage inside the handles, a box-beam handle construction for greater strength, downwardly opening handles to facilitate ease of use, and laminated plier jaws which are riveted together for even greater strength and overall integrity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Assignee: Imperial Schrade Corp.
    Inventors: David A. Swinden, John Denis Lemaire
  • Patent number: 5774919
    Abstract: The combination hanger and tool includes a stem which is provided at one end with a laterally enlarged structure and at the other end with a box end wrench (or other type of tool) having an aperture at the outer end thereof. The combination hanger and tool fits within the chuck of an electric drill with the lateral surfaces of the stem in engagement with the jaws of the chuck. The inner ends of the jaws are positioned adjacent the laterally enlarged structure which functions as a stop to prevent undesired relative movement between the stem and the jaws and thereby prevent separation of the combination hanger and tool from the chuck. When secured to the chuck, the aperture of the wrench is dimensioned to fit over a hook or peg thereby enabling the combination hanger and tool with the drill secured thereto to be hung from the hook or peg on a wall or other external structure. For chucks which require a key for operation thereof, one embodiment includes a chuck key mounted on the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Robert L. Rich
  • Patent number: 5774921
    Abstract: A toothbrush or other utensil specifically designed for use by toddlers and small children provides a handle in the form of an animal figure having a body which is essentially to scale. The handle carries either a rearwardly extending tail or forwardly extending trunk or other singular symmetrical limb. A toothbrush head or other operative utensil portion of somewhat conventional shape is secured to the limb, tail or trunk. The body includes appendages, such as legs, that allow it to stand stably upon a planar surface with the operative utensil portion supported off of the surface. The shaft of the utensil can include a spring-loaded locking member so that it is detachably removable from a base of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Zooth, Inc.
    Inventors: Susan Harrison, David W. Crossley
  • Patent number: 5752285
    Abstract: A hand-held, multi-purpose implement including a handle provided with a resealable storage container and an adaptor head having at least a pair of insert receiving sockets. A set of interchangeable inserts adapted for storage in the storage container when not in use each have a working end portion and a tang portion receivable in an insert receiving socket. The adaptor head includes a securing device for releasably securing at least two of the inserts in its insert receiving sockets so as to enable the creation of different tools depending on the combination of inserts secured therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1998
    Inventors: Paul Bendheim, Alon Razgour
  • Patent number: 5735005
    Abstract: A tool assembly is provided, which includes a primary body and a secondary body having a primary post and a secondary post respectively which are pivotally engaged with each other. An L-shaped primary flange is formed on an inner wall of the primary body and is located adjacent to the primary post, and a primary groove is defined in the primary post and is partially defined in the primary flange. An L-shaped secondary flange is formed on an inner wall of the secondary body and is located adjacent to the secondary post, and a secondary groove is defined in the secondary post and is partially defined in the secondary flange. A pair of pliers include two plier bodies pivotally engaged with each other and each having a shank received in each of the primary and secondary grooves and stopped by associated primary and secondary flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Chih-chung Wang
  • Patent number: 5729854
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tool, for use with a barbecue grill, having a hook at one end thereof and a relatively thin curved and tapered blade at the other end thereof which tool can be used for many different functions such as lifting and repositioning a grill cover and/or grate, adjusting the position of an air vent, holding and positioning a charcoal briquet, cleaning the bars of the grill grate by scraping, and moving ashes toward an opening in the kettle portion of the grill.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventor: Richard J. Powers
  • Patent number: 5664274
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tool having a pincer-head implement which may be detached from the handles of the tool. The handles are provided with multiple implements, such as screwdrivers, files, blades, or the like, which are slidable between a retracted position, within the handles, to an extended position, extending outwardly from the handles. The handles may be detached from the pincer-head, if desired, when a handle implement is being used. Alternately, the handle implements can be used while the handles are attached to the pincer-head implement. Different pincer-head implements may be provided with the handles, including pliers, shears, wrenches, scissors, and the like. The handles are each provided with a receiver for receiving the free ends of the pincer implement, and the receiver may also be used to receiver socket-type tools, such that the handle acts as a socket, or other tool driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 9, 1997
    Inventor: Michael Collins
  • Patent number: 5661960
    Abstract: A handle assembly, especially useful on power line trimmers, includes a fore arm rest or fore arm "contacting element" which retains the user's arm, a first handle positioned directly in line with a trough in said fore arm rest, and a second handle positioned to a side of the fore arm rest and first handle. In operation, the user's first hand and fore arm act in concert to direct the power tool, while the user's second hand acts to sweep the power tool from side to side, whereby the user's fore arm acts as a fulcrum at the fore arm rest of the handle assembly. By providing three points of contact with the user, the handle assembly allows the user to engage in a sweeping motion that is less strenuous and more easily controlled. In addition, the handle assembly provides better balancing of the power tool, and assists in maneuvering the power tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 2, 1997
    Inventors: Walker Smith, James H. Bowen
  • Patent number: 5638566
    Abstract: A multifunctional instrument includes a plurality of holder units which are detachably mounted in series and connecting members which may be either mounted between and interconnecting two adjacent holder units or mounted to a distal end of interconnected holder units, each interconnecting member including engaging arrangement at two ends thereof for detachably engaging with two ends of the holder units, and different kinds of tool tips being formed on two ends of the interconnecting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 17, 1997
    Inventor: Jung-Chung Wu
  • Patent number: 5556092
    Abstract: A handle grip is provided which has undulating surfaces to provide a comfortable, non-slip interface with the user's hand, the handle having first and second concentric gripping ridges separated by gripping valleys from a thumb ridge and reach other, respectively. The valleys include a plurality of ovoid dimples to increase the surface of interface between the user's fingers and the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 17, 1996
    Inventor: Randall R. Theken
  • Patent number: 5546621
    Abstract: A compound device for gripping arrows, for easy removal from a target, by means of two pivoting handle sections with an elongated groove in each handle section, with said groove containing rubber nodules which when closed around an arrow shaft form a gripping surface. Located in each handle sections on one end is a broadhead wrench which is comprised of two sections, which when handles are closed form the complete wrench, which is used to remove broadheads from arrow shaft, on the opposite end of one handle section a snap swivel is located as a convenience for carrying purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Carl E. Bulot
    Inventor: Carl E. Bulot
  • Patent number: 5480166
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tool holder is described, which includes an elongated cylindrical barrel having a non-circular socket in one end for attachment of the barrel to a ratchet-type turning implement. The other end of the barrel forms a slideway for two transversely adjustable jaws that have facing V-shaped grooves designed to grip tool shanks of varying size and shape. An adjusting screw is provided for each jaw, such that the jaws can be held in selected positions of adjustment. The elongated barrel is usable between a turning implement and tool shank gripped by the adjustable jaws. The elongated barrel can also be used as a handle to perform a tool turning operation. For this purpose various sockets are formed in the side surface of the barrel. The shanks of selected tools can be selectively inserted into the various sockets to operatively connect the barrel to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventor: Edward Milsop
  • Patent number: RE35424
    Abstract: A bicycle tool kit which provides either a number of open end or box style wrenches in a plate-like web attached to an end of an elongated handle. Attached to the top of the handle is a chain link remover for repairing broken links of bicycle chains. The threaded shaft of the chain link remover is adapted for removably retaining a separate deep socket and two allen wrenches, one of which has a screw driver tip. A wrench is also provided for adjusting the tension of the spokes of the bicycle wheels. The bicycle tool kit is structured to be lightweight, compact, and highly portable, and yet still offer most of the tools necessary for making adjustments and repairs to a bicycle should a problem develop while riding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Fiskars Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Seals