Laser line generating device

Abstract

A self-contained line generating device uses a laser diode and a lens to project a fan-shaped beam of visible light. The lens is useful for receiving light and transmitting light in an asymmetrical planar beam. The light is useful for aligning object in a vertical or a horizontal line. The generator also includes a substantially flat face and leveling devices for leveling and orienting the generator onto a flat surface. Retractable pins enable a user to easily mount the line generator onto a wall and align objects.

Description

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application 60 / 291,135, filed on May 15, 2001, of the same title, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety, and this application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10 / 141,392, filed May 7, 2002, (pending), the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] Alignment of surfaces is a perennial problem in a variety of fields, ranging from construction to interior decorating. Alignment is necessary for walls that should be perpendicular to a floor, or otherwise plumb. Masonry and brick-laying practitioners are well aware of the importance of plumbed and aligned surfaces and chalk lines. A home interior decorated with pictures and other wall ornamentation makes a much better appearance when the ornamentation is aligned, especially with respect to vertical or horizontal alignment. M...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Enables efficient and accurate alignment of objects over long distances and around obstacles with a single user, reducing the need for complex setups and multiple components, while maintaining the coherence and intensity of the laser beam.

Problems solved by technology

Alignment of surfaces is a perennial problem in a variety of fields, ranging from construction to interior decorating.

Some of these products are cumbersome, others are not as useful as they could be.

A visible, straight laser line is acceptable, but may be limited in its brightness over a distance, and may also tend to defocus and become dimmer as a user works away from the source of the laser.

Thus, such devices may have limited utility or may not work in confined spaces requiring a longer alignment tool.

Moreover, a conventional laser is not well-equipped for projecting a flat or planar beam of light.

Another aspect that could be improved is the inability of laser devices to work around obstructions.

That is, if a wall-hanging, such as a picture frame, interrupts the laser beam, it may be blocked from further projection.

Obstructions may include moldings placed in a doorway, picture frames in the way of those being aligned on one horizontal line, the operator of the device, other obstacles, or even textured or stuccoed surfaces on interior walls.

A conventional laser beam projector is thus not able to project a laser line on the wall on which it is mounted, nor can it go around obstructions.

The ability to work around obstacles would save much time and effort.

While leveling is necessary, such sophistication as a tripod adds to the expense and bulkiness of the leveling device.

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