Hand tool alignment device and method

Metal deforming – With use of optical or transparent means

Reexamination Certificate

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Details

C072S458000, C072S705000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06244086

ABSTRACT:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The invention herein relates to an alignment device for a hand tool and more particularly to sight specific alignment attachment for paintless dent removal tools and method of using same.
Hand tools come in a variety of forms to meet a vast array of functions. In many cases particular tools are used in such a method that the user's line of sight is obstructed by a structure. Typically the user learns from trial and error in order to locate the work piece of the tool in the proper position. Auto body dent removal tools are a prime example of this intended use. The work piece of the tool is usually extended behind the dented sheet metal. This process is necessary for the tool to be placed on the dent. In doing so the tool is now obstructed from view by the sheet metal. A quick, easy and reliable method of locating the work piece of the tool would be greatly beneficial due to increased efficiency of the user. Unfortunately, few attempts have been made to provide a practical solution to this common problem.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Present Invention
In one aspect, the invention features a hand tool alignment device that includes a base bracket that enables releasable mounting to a hand tool. The base bracket also supports a substantially longitudinal frame, the frame includes a joint that has at least three degrees of freedom. A sight device is attached to the frame. When the combination is secured to a hand tool by the base bracket, the sight device can be positioned by the joint, such that the sight device locates a position on the hand tool.
The system may also include the capability to be retrofitable on a hand tool. Here the base bracket enables releasably secure mounting to the hand tool. A substantially longitudinal frame, includes at least two movable joints, the frame being mounted to the base bracket. A sight device is attached to the frame.
In another aspect, the invention includes a method of locating a work piece that is visually obstructed by an opaque surface utilizing the afore mentioned system of a sight device that is attached to a frame including a joint that is capable of movement of at least three degrees of freedom. By positioning the work piece on one side of an opaque surface with said sight device on a second side thereof, the sight device identifies the position of said work piece to the user.
Definition of Terms
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same intended meaning as would be commonly understood by anyone of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. To eliminate possible ambiguity, specific terms used herein have been defined as they would be applied to the present invention.
A “work piece” is the portion of a tool that is used in intimate contact with the desired object of the function of the tool. The twelve point ring, that constitutes the area of contact between a wrench and the head of a fastener, would be considered the work piece of a box end wrench. Similarly, the term can be used to describe the socket of a ratchet wrench and the contact tip of a dent removal tool.
A “coherent light” is a light that has a pattern or tends to remain united. Such is the case with a laser light.
A “laser light” includes all forms of light energy generated by amplification by the stimulated emission of radiation. For the purpose of this disclosure, this includes any coherent light including light generated from the use of a ruby laser, a gas laser, dye lasers and semiconductor lasers.


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