For Pivoted Tools Patents (Class 7/168)
  • Patent number: 7114233
    Abstract: A device for facilitating the separation and removal of an engine cover from a sealing surface on an engine. The engine cover puller may reduce or eliminate the deformation of an engine cover during its removal and allows for its potential reuse. In addition, the engine cover puller may reduce or eliminate the damage to the sealing surfaces between the engine cover and the engine that may occur during an engine cover removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Barry Lynn Wyrick, Billy Wayne Overman, Bruce Moore
  • Patent number: 7020923
    Abstract: A body shop tool includes at least four fold out tool elements pivotally mounted at one end of a trough shaped holder and a fastener pry tool pivotally mounted at the opposite end of the through shaped holder wherein the pry tool is configured to fit over, retain and protect the at least four tool elements when the tool elements and pry tool are in the folded or storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Lisle Corporation
    Inventor: James Jangula
  • 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: 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: 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: 6751819
    Abstract: A tool assembly includes a main body having two sidewalls. Two sets of tools are, respectively, rotatably mounted between first ends and second ends of the sidewalls. Each sidewall has an outwardly facing recessed section for detachably receiving a tire repairing tool in the preferred form of a tire lever. Tire patches are received in at least one of the tire levers for proceeding with tire patching when required. At least one of the tire levers includes a driving column for adjusting the bolts to which the tools are rotatably mounted. The tools include a chain repairer that may engage with the driving column of the tire lever for proceeding with chain repair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • 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: 6708360
    Abstract: The preferred embodiments described herein relate to a multi-purpose hand-held device. Some of the preferred embodiments describe a multipurpose hand-held implement comprising first and second members connected together to move between a first position, in which they form together an elongated body, and a second position. In one preferred embodiment, a multi-purpose hand-held device is described comprising a stapler and/or punch and other fold-out utensils, wherein a module containing the utensils is preferably incorporated into the stapler-punch component assembly. Other preferred embodiments are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Assignee: Ctech AG
    Inventor: Peter Ackeret
  • Patent number: 6698049
    Abstract: A multi-functional tool configured to enable a user to manipulate articles of clothing, the multi-functional tool including a first handle, a second handle, a pivot pin, and a plurality of tools rotatably disposed about the pivot pin. Wherein each tool is configured to provide a specific function to the user of the multi-functional tool. Still further, in accordance with the present invention there is provided a multi-functional tool that includes a plurality of tools configured to manipulate buttons and zippers disposed on articles of clothing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas McLoudrey
  • Patent number: 6622328
    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: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6622329
    Abstract: A three-piece bicycle tool assembly consists of a first tool carrier, a second tool carrier, and an engagement member separate from and slidingly engaging the first tool carrier and the second tool carrier. The first tool carrier and the second tool carrier each have a number of tools pivotably engaged thereon. A chain repair tool on the engagement member is held between the first tool carrier and the second tool carrier so that it is not substantially exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2003
    Assignee: Bicycle Tools Incorporated
    Inventors: Pierre Ostor, John Krawczyk
  • Patent number: 6601481
    Abstract: A tool kit includes a body having at least one compartment, at least one tool-mounting bolt mounted to the body, and at least one set of tools rotatably mounted to the tool-mounting tool. The set of tools is received in the compartment when not in use. A wrench is detachably mounted to the body for adjusting tightness of the tool-mounting bolt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: Louis Chuang
  • Patent number: 6574817
    Abstract: Complex tool kit including a foldable tool assembly and another tool assembly. The foldable tool assembly includes a main body having a passage on top face and several tools one end of which is pivotally connected with one end of the main body, The tools can be folded and collectively arranged under the main body. The other tool assembly includes an elongated flat board body, a chain-disassembling mechanism disposed on the board body for disassembling/assembling a chain and a clamping mechanism disposed on the board body. The clamping mechanism defines a clamping hole adjustable in size for driving a nut. The board body of the other tool assembly is detachably fitted into the passage of the main body and connected with the foldable tool assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Inventor: Shu Te Wu
  • Patent number: 6493893
    Abstract: The preferred embodiments described herein relate to a multi-purpose hand-held device. Some of the preferred embodiments describe a multipurpose hand-held implement comprising first and second members connected together to move between a first position, in which they form together an elongated body, and a second position. In one preferred embodiment, a multi-purpose hand-held device is described comprising a stapler and/or punch and other fold-out utensils, wherein a module containing the utensils is preferably incorporated into the stapler-punch component assembly. Other preferred embodiments are described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Ctech AG
    Inventor: Peter Ackeret
  • Patent number: 6450071
    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: April 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Berg, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6412130
    Abstract: A multi-tool with a handle formed to have a cross section that is S-shaped so that a foldable tool stored in the handle may be opened and closed independently of other selected operations for the multi-tool. The foldable tool is stored in a first pocket, facing away from an opposing handle, and an adjustment mechanism is stored in a second pocket, facing toward the opposing handle. A leaf spring is cut from an opposing wall of the first pocket, and biased so that the leaf spring moves to a blocking position at least partially within the first pocket when the foldable tool is in an open position. A post is mounted on the foldable tool and is exposed for engagement by a human hand to facilitate deployment of the foldable tool from its closed position to its open position. The S-shaped construction of the handle allows a flange to be incorporated as part of the handle without interfering with the foldability of the foldable tool stored in the first pocket of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Kai U.S.A. Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter G. Kershaw, Douglas B. Flagg, Craig Green, Katsumi Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 6408522
    Abstract: A multipurpose folding tool (30, 280) including a pair of folding scissors (32), in which scissors blades (80, 82) are movable about pivot shafts (78), between a stowed position and a deployed position in the handles (34, 36). A rocker (94, 96) is moved by a spring (106) in the tool handle and in turn urges a scissors blade toward an open position. In one embodiment four springs (104, 106) hold the handles together with the folded scissors stowed within the handles. When the scissors and other tools are folded into their stowed positions in the handle of the multipurpose tool of the invention the tool has a smooth outside configuration allowing the tool to be carried in a pocket without causing undue wear. A handle (34 or 36) may be constructed as a sheet metal channel or a handle (282, 284, 382, 384) in two pieces at least one of which includes a perpendicular flange taking the place of a channel bottom portion so that each blade or tool bit may be accompanied by a separate spring (318, 418, 420).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6405395
    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: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Alterra Holdings Corporation
    Inventors: Paul W. Poehlmann, Phillip A. Montague
  • Patent number: 6357068
    Abstract: A combination tool includes a tool head having a jaw mechanism with two jaws lying in a tool head plane. A first handle is pivotably attached to the jaw mechanism and rotatable in a first direction about a first pivot axle lying in the tool head plane, between a nested position wherein the first handle lies coplanar with and adjacent to the jaw mechanism and a deployed position wherein the first handle is coplanar with and remote from the jaw mechanism. A second handle is pivotably attached to the jaw mechanism and rotatable in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, about a second pivot axle lying in the tool head plane, between a nested position wherein the second handle lies coplanar with and adjacent to the jaw mechanism and a deployed position wherein the second handle is coplanar with and remote from the jaw mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Buck Knives, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett P. Seber, Randolph J. Morton, Gabriel Alejandro Draguicevich, Roy L. Helton, Jr., Harold J. Carson, Harold J. Carson, Jr., Gregory F. Rubin, William P. Debley, Jr., Robson L. Splane, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6352010
    Abstract: This invention relates to a multi-purpose pocket tool which may incorporate for instance one or two knife blades, a Philips screwdriver, a pair of pliers, scissors, a cap remover, a can opener, tweezers and the like and, according to this invention, a bit holder shaft and a bit cartridge for single- or double-ended bits suitable for use on electrical devices and especially computers. The tool according to this invention is small in size and weight, easy to handle, and extremely versatile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Inventors: Franco Giarritta, Carl Elsener
  • Patent number: 6349624
    Abstract: The tool of the present invention comprises two handle/body members each pivotally coupled to a respective end of a generally straight, rigid stem. Each handle/body member is adapted to function as a handle when positioned transversely, preferably at 90 degrees, with respect to the stem or as a working head when the central longitudinal axis of a handle/body member is positioned generally along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stem. In the working end mode, each handle/body member is adapted to perform at least two tasks: riser removal and installation, and reconditioning threads or tapping, i.e., acting a typical screw tap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen A. Fahringer
  • Patent number: 6341423
    Abstract: A multi-purpose tool including a plurality of tools useful to have available in an automobile, such as a flashlight, a tire pressure gauge, a scraper, and a fuse puller. The scraper preferably is pivotably mounted to a handle of the multi-purpose tool in a manner which permits the scraper to be positioned substantially perpendicular to the tool handles to permit scraping force to be applied to the scraper in an efficient manner. The multi-purpose tool preferably also includes a tool with pivotable jaws, such as a pair of foldable pliers, as well as a variety of pivotably mounted tools such as a cutting blade, a screwdriver, and a cap lifter. The tool preferably has two handles, each handle having storage channels for the tools coupled thereto. The tool jaws are pivotably mounted to the handles for selective movement between a storage position in the handles and a working position in which the jaws work together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2002
    Assignee: Swiss Army Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: John Merrick Taggart, A. Jeffrey Turner, Edward S. Richardson, Daniel J. Nelson, Stephen E. Lanc, Marc S. Harrison, Michael C. Pereira, Aldan J. Petrie
  • Patent number: 6321626
    Abstract: A driving tool includes a barrel and a handle secured to one end of the barrel for rotating the barrel. The barrel includes an engaging opening formed in the other end for engaging with a tool bit and a fastener. A telescopic pipe is engaged in the bore of the barrel and has one end secured to the handle and has a magnetic member secured to the other end for allowing the magnetic member to be extended outward of the barrel to attract and to fetch the fasteners engaged in a deep hole of an object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Assignee: ICC Innovative Concepts Corporation
    Inventor: Kuo Zhen Liu
  • Patent number: 6318218
    Abstract: A hand tool has a handle has an elongated central axis and opposed elongated sides and oppositely disposed ends, and tool bits which are pivotally removably stowed in the handle, which handle has a non-circular hole for non-rotatably operably receiving the tool bits, and the non-circular hole has a central axis, with the central axes angularly disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6314600
    Abstract: Multifunctional knife/cutting pliers comprising two lateral sides serving as a handle for the tool and surrounding an interior space. At least one other implement is disposed in this interior space so as to pivot about a transverse axis connecting the two lateral sides. The knife/cutting pliers further comprises a plurality of removable implements to which the user can have access by lifting up a magazine lid over at least one portion of this interior space. The implements are held in the lid by a plurality of corresponding accommodations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Wenger SA
    Inventor: Maurice Cachot
  • Patent number: 6305041
    Abstract: A multi-function tool includes a cross-jaw module removably attached to a pair of channel-shaped handles with a pair of clips. Each clip removably attaching the tang of each jaw of the cross-jaw module to one of the handles. The multi-function tool also includes a spring biased wedge lock to positively lock a plurality of pivotal attached ancillary implements in an open position. An anti-rotational washer located between adjacent implements prevents rotation of a non-selected implement. The washers include a protrusion that is received in a slot in the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Assignee: Alterra Holdings Corporation
    Inventors: Phillip A. Montague, Edgar A. Dallas, Paul W. Poehlmann
  • Patent number: 6298756
    Abstract: A hand tool has an elongated handle with oppositely disposed ends and a first tool includes a plurality of tool bits and a sleeve for operably receiving the tool bits with the sleeve non-rotatably detachably attached to one end of the handle, and the sleeve pivotally connected so as to rotate the sleeve with a tool bit to first and second operable positions, with a second tool pivotally connected to the other handle end for alternate first or second tool use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6293018
    Abstract: A multipurpose folding tool (30, 280) including a pair of folding scissors (32), in which scissors blades (80, 82) are movable about pivot shafts (78), between a stowed position and a deployed position in the handles (34, 36). A rocker (94, 96) is moved by a spring (106) in the tool handle and in turn urges a scissors blade toward an open position. In one embodiment four springs (104, 106) hold the handles together with the folded scissors stowed within the handles. When the scissors and other tools are folded into their stowed positions in the handle of the multipurpose tool of the invention the tool has a smooth outside configuration allowing the tool to be carried in a pocket without causing undue wear. A handle (34 or 36) may be constructed as a sheet metal channel or a handle (282, 284, 382, 384) in two pieces at least one of which includes a perpendicular flange taking the place of a channel bottom portion so that each blade or tool bit may be accompanied by a separate spring (318, 418, 420).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6286168
    Abstract: A bicycle repair tool includes a handle and a plurality of repair tools pivotably mounted at one end of the handle. A planar bridge connects the left and right side walls of the handle and serves as a rest surface for the repair tools in their undeployed position. The repair tool further includes a chain tool mounted within the handle and slidably supported at an opposite end thereof. The handle defines an elongated slot at the opposite end sized to slidably receive the threaded collar of the chain tool. The handle of the chain tool defines an opening and the planar bridge defines a correspondingly configured raised boss to hold the chain tool within the repair tool handle when the chain tool handle is in contact with the planar bridge. The raised boss can include a sloped surface to facilitate sliding the chain tool out of the repair tool handle. The chain tool includes a pressure screw having an internal hex head configured to be driven by one of the repair tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Pedro's USA
    Inventors: Wendell J. Woodruff, Luke W. Michas, Jeremy Howard, Bruce P. Fina
  • Patent number: 6286397
    Abstract: A portable multi-purpose tool including tools useful for fixing or adjusting equipment used by a persons engaged in in-line skating, a board sport, and the like. The multi-purpose tool includes various implements that are conveniently stored within a tool housing, and are selectively extendable from the tool housing into respective operating positions. At least one of the tools is a socket wrench configured to engage and apply torque to an element to be rotated. The socket wrench may include a ratchet mechanism for controlling the direction in which torque may be applied by the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Swiss Army Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: John Merrick Taggart, A. Jeffrey Turner, Edward S. Richardson, Daniel J. Nelsen, Stephen E. Lane, Marc Harrison, Aidan J. Petrie
  • Patent number: 6282997
    Abstract: A multipurpose tool having pivoted jaws is provided. Elongated handles are attached to the butt end of each jaw. The handles are channel shaped and define recesses into which the interconnected jaw members can be swung or retracted so as to be nested in the handles. Handle covers are pivoted to each handle and include an opening through which the jaw members pass when moved between the open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Assignee: SOG Specialty Knives, Inc.
    Inventor: Spencer Frazer
  • Patent number: 6257106
    Abstract: A hand tool has a pliers with pivotably disposed handles with one handle having a closed ended sleeve pivotably connected to one handle head for removably operably receiving tool with the sleeve non-removably bits pivoting 180° from an inoperable position between the handle sides to an operable position, and the other handle has a plurality of bladed tools pivotally connected to the other handle end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2001
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • 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: 6220127
    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: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2001
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard G. Berg, Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 6182541
    Abstract: A hand tool having a plurality of tools attached thereto. The tool includes a sleeve with a plurality of bits. The sleeve is disconnectably attached to a handle by engagement with a polygonal socket connection drive which is pivotally attached to the handle. A second tool is pivotally attached to the handle opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6128981
    Abstract: A folding hand tool set having a one-piece, completely integral, plastic handle and a plurality of hand tools rotatably mounted thereto. The one-piece, completely integral, plastic handle is preferably constructed from a fiber reinforced thermoplastic. Spacers may be provided for rotationally isolating the hand tools. The folding hand tool set is capable of transmitting more then 110.0 Newton meters of torque without compromising the integrity of the one-piece, completely integral plastic handle. A one-piece, completely integral, plastic handle for receiving hand tools is also disclosed. The handle can withstand at least 30 Newton meters of torsional force without compromising the integrity of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Bondhus Corporation
    Inventors: John R. Bondhus, Michael D. Blackston, Barry Bondhus, Dennis A. Burda, Mark L. Petroske
  • Patent number: 6119560
    Abstract: A hand tool includes interchangeable screwdriver bits and a pivoted sleeve which pivots from an inoperable position to an operable position, and one of the screwdriver bits is slidably non-rotatably operably disposed in the operable position. The hand tool also includes a pivoted telescoping magnet which is pivoted from an inoperable position to an operable position for extendibly magnetically holding a screw. The hand tool is alternatively operable as a screwdriver and telescoping magnet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6119561
    Abstract: A compact multiple function hand tool Includes a pliers with opposed hand grip legs with one hand grip leg having a pivotable self-contained tool bit drive set which contains two double-ended tool bits and three nut drives, and the other hand grip leg has a pivoted bladed tool, so that the compact hand tool is alternatively operable as a pliers, a bladed tool, a multiple tool bit drive and a multiple nut drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6109148
    Abstract: A drive tool has a handle with a hexagonal sleeve for holding a plurality of tool bits. The sleeve is pivotally connected to the handle from an extended operable position to a stored inoperable position within the handle. The drive tool is provided with cross-holes for providing torque to the hexagonal sleeve or the drive bits using the handle as a lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6092444
    Abstract: A folding combination tool kit includes two oblong friction plates connected in parallel by bolts and nuts to hold a set of tools, enabling the tools to be respectively turned about the bolts in and out of the space defined between the oblong friction plates, wherein a flat connector is pivoted to one of the bolts, and an auxiliary tool is detachably coupled to the flat connector, the flat connector having a pivot hole, which receives one bolt, two shoulders bilaterally disposed at one end, and a flat, stepped, coupling portion at an opposite end for holding the auxiliary tool, the auxiliary tool having a first end, which is stopped at the shoulders of the flat connector when the auxiliary tool is coupled to the flat connector, a coupling notch longitudinally disposed on the first end and forced into engagement with the coupling portion of the flat connector, a second end, and a locating notch at one lateral side thereof between the first end and the second end for engagement with the locating rod when the au
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Chia-Yuan Hsiao
  • Patent number: 6088860
    Abstract: A multi-function tool includes a cross-jaw module removably attached to a pair of channel-shaped handles with a pair of clips. Each clip removably attaching the tang of each jaw of the cross-jaw module to one of the handles. The multi-function tool also includes a spring biased wedge lock to positively lock a plurality of pivotal attached ancillary implements in an open position. An anti-rotational washer located between adjacent implements prevents rotation of a non-selected implement. The washers include a protrusion that is received in a slot in the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Fiskars Inc.
    Inventors: Paul W. Poehlmann, Phillip A. Montague, Edgar A. Dallas
  • Patent number: 6082232
    Abstract: A pocket stowable hand tool has a handle with elongated sides with one folding tool at one handle end which has a removable sleeved tool chuck and a bladed folding tool at the other end. The handle provides for fully enclosed storage of a plurality of interchangeable bits which tool bits are removably non-rotatably operably received in the tool chuck sleeve. The tool chuck with a tool bit is folded from an inoperable position between the handle sides to an operable position disposed away from the handle sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventors: Wayne Anderson, Paolo Cassutti
  • Patent number: 6038723
    Abstract: A foldable multi-purpose tool includes a pair of jaws and a pair of folding handles, with one or both of the handles configured to receive removable cartridges. In the extended position, the handles operate the jaws. Each removable cartridge contains a number of relatively small tool blades that are preferably selected by functional categories. Various cartridge hold-down and removal mechanisms are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: The Coleman Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William Nabors, Debra S. Yates, David H. Linnebur, Jon Rodriguez, Andrew Hill
  • Patent number: 6027224
    Abstract: A multipurpose pocket accessory includes handheld optical and mechanical implements. A laser pointer and a flashlight project separate beams from one end of an elongated housing, and have a common power supply within the housing. A set of pocketknife type tools can be extended from the other end of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Tim Schnell
  • Patent number: 6006385
    Abstract: A multi-tool with a handle formed to have a cross section that is S-shaped so that a foldable tool stored in the handle may be opened and closed independently of other selected operations for the multi-tool. The foldable tool is stored in a first pocket, facing away from an opposing handle, and an adjustment mechanism is stored in a second pocket, facing toward the opposing handle. A leaf spring is cut from an opposing wall of the first pocket, and biased so that the leaf spring moves to a blocking position at least partially within the first pocket when the foldable tool is in an open position. A post is mounted on the foldable tool and is exposed for engagement by a human hand to facilitate deployment of the foldable tool from its closed position to its open position. The S-shaped construction of the handle allows a flange to be incorporated as part of the handle without interfering with the foldability of the foldable tool stored in the first pocket of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Kai U.S.A. Ltd.
    Inventors: Peter G. Kershaw, Douglas B. Flagg, Craig Green, Katsumi Hasegawa
  • Patent number: 5979959
    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: April 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Leatherman Tool Group, Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin C. Rivera
  • Patent number: 5970553
    Abstract: A wrench hammer set, comprising a handle rod, one end of said handle rod is linked to a combination tool head that serves as an adjustable wrench and a hammer; the other end of said handle rod is linked to a rod-shaped tool set; a handle cover covering the rear half of said handle rod, to serve as a handle of a hand tool set, inside said handle cover may be arranged an assortment of sleeve sockets; with said construction, tools of various functions are combined to become a hand tool, to fully achieve the purposes of minimized space and increased functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Yuan-Ho Lin
  • Patent number: 5937680
    Abstract: A device for concealing, storing and permitting ready access to and use of a handcuff key which is not readily identifiable as a key holder but is easily retrieved and utilized by law enforcement personnel. The handcuff key is camouflaged and concealed in a variety of devices, such as a ball point pen enclosure, a pocket knife holder and a rectangular case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Armament Systems and Procedures, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin L. Parsons
  • Patent number: 5926885
    Abstract: A combination chisel and punch for using one tool as a handle while striking another tool is provided. The combination tool includes multiple tool members with a striking end for being struck by another object and a working end for engaging a work piece. The tool members are pivotally connected by a link. A locking mechanism secures one tool member, serving as a handle, in an orientation parallel to the link while the user strikes another tool member, serving as a tool. When not in use, each tool member folds into an unlocked position for compact storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Clark & Williams L.L.C.
    Inventor: Luther L. Williams