Light line generating assembly

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0001The present invention relates to a light line generating assembly and, in particular, to a self-leveling, laser level device including a repositionable line generating unit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0002Alignment of surfaces is a perennial problem in a variety of fields, ranging from construction to interior decorating. Proper alignment is necessary to ensure that walls are perpendicular to a floor, or otherwise plumb. Laser level devices are often used in construction to produce a plane of light that serves as a reference for various projects. An example of such a device can be found in <patcit id="pcit0001" dnum="US2005078303A"><text>US 2005/078303</text></patcit>. Laser level devices save considerable time during the initial layout of a construction project as compared to other tools such as beam levels, chalk lines, or torpedo levels. Some examples of projects where laser level devices are useful include laying tile, hanging drywall, mounting cabinet, installing counter tops, and building outdoor decks.

SUMMARY

0003An assembly for generating light lines on a surface is disclosed as defined in the appended claims. The assembly may include a first housing coupled to a second housing. The first housing may include a first light source and a second light source capable of generating intersecting light lines on the surface. The first housing, moreover, may be repositioned with respect to the second housing to reorient the light lines on the surface. In particular, the first hosing may be rotated about horizontal and/or vertical axes. The assembly may further include a pendulum assembly operable to self-level the light lines to create substantially vertical (plumb) and/or horizontal lines over a generally vertical surface such as a wall.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0004<figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">1B</figref> illustrate front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a line generating assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention.

0005<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a front perspective view of the line generating assembly of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1A</figref>, with the front housing portion removed for clarity.

0006<figref idref="f0004">FIGS. 3A and 3B</figref> are close-up views of a pendulum locking mechanism in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, with the front portion of the lock lever removed for clarity.

0007<figref idref="f0005">FIGS 4A - 4B</figref> illustrate an exemplary laser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Specifically, <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4A</figref> illustrates side view of a laser barrel, with a portion of the laser barrel removed for clarity, while <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4B</figref> illustrates a cross-sectional view of the laser barrel of <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4A</figref> taken along lines 4B - 4B.

0008<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a perspective view the line generating assembly of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1A</figref>, showing the generation of light planes.

0009<figref idref="f0007">FIG. 6</figref> is an exploded view of the line generating assembly illustrated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, showing the connection between the first housing and the second housing.

0010<figref idref="f0008">FIGS. 7A - 7C</figref> are cross-sectional views of the second housing taken along line 7 - 7 of <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, showing the detent mechanism of the support post.

0011<figref idref="f0009">FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C</figref> are front views of the line generating assembly, showing the rotation of the first housing with respect to the second housing.

0012<figref idref="f0010">FIGS. 9A - 9C</figref> illustrate bottom views of the first housing in isolation, showing the sliding of the support post along a slot

0013<figref idref="f0011">FIGS. 10A and 10B</figref> illustrate front views of the line generating assembly, showing the rotation of the first housing within a plane.

0014<figref idref="f0012">FIGS. 11A and 11B</figref> illustrate front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a mounting accessory operable to support the line generating assembly proximate a surface.

0015<figref idref="f0013">FIG. 12</figref> illustrates the mounting assembly of <figref idref="f0012">FIGS. 11A and 11B</figref> coupled to the line generating assembly of <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">1B</figref>.

0016Like reference numerals have been used to identify like elements throughout this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0017<figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">1B</figref> illustrate front and rear perspective views, respectively, of a light line generating assembly according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1A</figref>, the line generating assembly <b>10</b> may include a first housing or head <b>100</b> (also called a light generating unit) and a second housing or base <b>105.</b> The line generating assembly <b>10</b> may be formed from a hard, impact-resistant, preferably moldable material such as a hard thermoplastic material such as ABS or polystyrene. The assembly <b>10</b> may also include a grip portion formed from soft or low durometer thermoplastic elastomer. For example, the grip portion may be adhered or overmolded to the second housing <b>105.</b> Alternatively or additionally, the grip portion may be formed from "soft-touch" elastomer materials such as SANTOPRENE, KRATON, and MONOPRENE.

0018The first housing <b>100</b> contains a mechanism operable to generate at least one reference or light line onto a support or work surface. The shape of the first housing <b>100</b> is not particularly limited to that which is shown herein. In the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">1B</figref>, the first housing <b>100</b> may possess a truncated ring shape. That is, the first housing <b>100</b> may possess a generally curved, C-shaped configuration with spaced apart ends <b>115A, 115B</b> that define an opening <b>120.</b> The angular dimensions of the opening <b>120</b> may include, but are no limited to, approximately 90°. An aperture with a central axis <b>125</b> may extend through the first housing <b>100.</b>

0019The first housing <b>100</b> may include one or more windows operable to permit the transmission of a light beam from the first housing <b>100.</b> The term window not only includes an opening with a transparent or translucent covering, but also uncovered apertures through which a beam of light may pass. By way of specific example, as shown in <figref idref="f0001">FIGS. 1A</figref> and <figref idref="f0002">1B</figref>, the first housing <b>100</b> may include a first window <b>110A</b> spaced from a second window <b>110B</b> at an angle including, but not limited to, approximately 90°. With this configuration, when the first housing <b>100</b> is positioned in its normal (upright) position, the first window <b>110A</b> may direct a beam of light in a generally horizontal direction, while the second window <b>110B</b> may direct a beam of light in a generally vertical direction. In particular, the light beams may be transmitted from the first housing <b>100</b> such that the light beams intersect along the axis <b>125</b> of the central aperture, passing through the opening <b>120</b> of the first housing <b>100.</b> In this manner, the light beams generate light lines on a support or work surface (e.g., a wall or floor), providing reference lines that permit a user to orient objects on the surface (discussed in greater detail below).

0020The line generating assembly <b>10</b> may further include a first actuator <b>140</b> (located, e.g., on the second housing <b>105)</b> operable to control the light sources contained in the first housing, as well as a second actuator <b>145</b> (located, e.g., on the first housing <b>100)</b> operable to engage the locking mechanism (each discussed in greater detail below). In addition, the line generating assembly <b>10</b> (i.e., each of the first housing <b>100</b> and the second housing <b>105)</b> may be formed as a unitary structure or may be formed from a front housing portion <b>150</b> and a rear housing portion <b>155.</b> The front housing portion <b>150</b> may include measurement indicia configured to indicate the angular degree of rotation of the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105</b> (not illustrated). For example, the indicia may provide protractor measurements. Alternatively, the first housing may include a protractor device similar to that disclosed in <patcit id="pcit0002" dnum="US441451A" dnum-type="L"><text>U.S. Patent Application No. 11/441,451</text></patcit> . Referring to <figref idref="f0002">FIG. 1B</figref>, the rear housing portion <b>155</b> may include slots <b>160</b> configured to receive the arms of a mounting accessory (discussed below). In still another embodiment the rear housing portion <b>155</b> may also include angle markings to measure the angle when, for example, the upper housing is rotated about a vertical axis (discussed in greater detail below).

0021<figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a front perspective view of the line generating assembly <b>10</b> of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1A</figref>, with the front housing portion <b>150</b> removed for clarity. The first housing <b>100</b> may further contain a pendulum assembly <b>200</b> including a pendulum <b>205,</b> one or more light sources <b>210A, 210B,</b> and a damping mechanism <b>215.</b> The pendulum <b>205</b> may be coupled to the rear housing portion <b>155</b> such that it freely pivots within the first housing <b>100</b> (i.e., it may be pendulously suspended within the first housing <b>100).</b> Specifically, the pendulum <b>205</b> may pivotally coupled to a post <b>220</b> extending from the interior surface of the rear housing portion <b>155.</b> A guide member <b>225</b> may be positioned to direct and/or limit the degree and/or direction of pivot in the pendulum <b>205.</b> By way of example, the pendulum <b>205</b> may swing about 12° (±6° from its normal (0°) position). One or more bearings (not shown) may optionally be provided between the pendulum <b>205</b> and the post <b>220</b> to allow for a more fluid and consistent motion.

0022In operation, when the line generating assembly <b>10</b> is placed against a work or support surface such as a generally vertical wall, the pendulum <b>205</b> will pivot to automatically reorient the light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> such that substantially vertical (plumb) and/or horizontal lines are created. In other words, the pendulum assembly <b>200</b> is self-leveling, correcting the orientation of the light beams on the work surface even if the work surface is uneven, or even if the line generating assembly <b>10</b> is placed against the work surface in a slightly tilted orientation.

0023The light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> may each include a device operable to generate a light beam <b>LB</b> such as a light plane or line. In the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, a first light source <b>210A</b> is coupled to the pendulum <b>205</b> to direct a light beam <b>LB</b> through the first window <b>110A,</b> while a second light source <b>210B</b> is coupled to the pendulum <b>205</b> such that it directs a light beam <b>LB</b> through the second window <b>110B.</b> The light source <b>210A, 210B may</b> include, but is not limited to, a laser assembly (discussed in greater detail below). The light sources may be selectively controlled by a switch <b>230</b> in communication with the first actuator <b>140.</b> For example, the switch may selectively power one or both light sources <b>210A, 210B.</b>

0024The damping mechanism <b>215</b> is capable of decreasing the amplitude of the pendulum <b>205.</b> The damping mechanism <b>215</b> may be any mechanism suitable for its described purpose (i.e., damping the motion of pendulum <b>205).</b> By way of example, the curved bar <b>235</b> may be formed from electrically conductive, non-ferrous material (e.g., aluminum, zinc, copper, brass). The rear housing portion <b>155</b> may further include a magnet <b>240</b> that aligns with the curved bar <b>235.</b> The curved bar <b>235,</b> moreover, is formed and positioned such that a precise gap is maintained at a predetermined width when the pendulum <b>205</b> is in motion (i.e., as the pendulum swings about the post <b>220).</b> The interaction between the eddy currents in curved bar <b>235</b> with the magnetic field of the magnets causes damping of the swaying motion of pendulum 205. Alternative embodiments for the damping mechanism <b>215</b> may be found in <patcit id="pcit0003" dnum="US5144487A"><text>U.S. Patent No. 5,144,487</text></patcit> .

0025The line generating assembly <b>10</b> may further include a calibration mechanism configured to calibrate the orientation of the pendulum <b>205.</b> By way of example, the calibration mechanism may include a balance screw disposed along the pendulum <b>205.</b> The calibration mechanism may be utilized to adjust the pathway of the light beam and, in particular, to allow the light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> to be angularly adjusted relative to the first housing <b>100.</b> In addition, at least one of the light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> may be adjustable on the pendulum <b>205</b> to calibrate the light beam alignment. For example, this can be accomplished with a spring and screw mechanism.

0026The line generating assembly <b>10</b> of the present invention may further include a lock mechanism operable to stabilize the pendulum <b>205,</b> preventing its pivotal motion. The lock mechanism may include a lock lever <b>300</b> including a first end <b>305</b> and a second end <b>310, as</b> well as biasing member <b>320</b> that biases the <b>first end 305</b> of the lock lever <b>300</b> against the curved bar <b>235</b> of the pendulum <b>205.</b> The lock lever <b>300</b> may be pivotally coupled to the first housing <b>100</b> at a pivot point <b>P.</b>

0027The second actuator <b>145</b> of the first housing 100 may be adapted to engage and disengage the lock lever <b>300</b> to selectively secure the pendulum at a desired tilt angle. <figref idref="f0004">FIGS. 3A and 3B</figref> are close-up views of the lock mechanism shown in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, with a portion of the lock lever <b>300</b> removed for clarity. Specifically, the second actuator <b>145</b> may control a ramp <b>330</b> that selectively engages the lock lever <b>300,</b> pivoting it. Referring to <figref idref="f0004">FIG. 3A</figref>, in operation, the second actuator <b>145</b> begins in a first position, in which the biasing member urges the first end <b>305</b> of the lock lever <b>300</b> against the curved bar <b>235</b> of the pendulum <b>205.</b> When the lock lever <b>300</b> engages the pendulum <b>205,</b> the pendulum is prevented from pivoting about its pivot point <b>P</b> (thus cannot self-level). This, in turn, generally immobilizes the light sources <b>210A, 210B.</b>

0028Engaging the second actuator <b>145</b> by applying a force (indicated by arrow <b>S)</b> slides the second actuator <b>145</b> from the first position to a second position, in which the ramp <b>330</b> contacts the second end <b>310</b> of the lock lever <b>300.</b> The ramp <b>330</b> drives the second end <b>310</b> of the lock lever <b>300</b> upward, overcoming the biasing force of the biasing member <b>320.</b> Thus, the first end <b>305</b> of the lock lever <b>300</b> is driven downward, away from the pendulum <b>205</b> (indicated by arrow <b>F).</b> This releases the pendulum <b>205,</b> permitting it to freely pivot, leveling the light beams generated by the light sources <b>210A, 210B.</b>

0029In this manner, a user may selectively activate the self-leveling feature of the line generating assembly <b>10.</b> Selectively preventing the movement of the pendulum <b>205</b> within to the first housing <b>100</b> not only prevents damage to the pendulum <b>205</b> during storage and/or transport, but also enables a user to stabilize the light line generated on the work surface (i.e., it prevents the light line from self-leveling). As a result, the line generating assembly <b>10</b> may be repositioned on a work surface to project a light line at a desired angle (e.g., a user may establish a zero or datum position, then rotate the assembly <b>10</b> at a desired angle from the zero position).

0030In addition, the lock mechanism is capable of not only securing the pendulum at its normal position (where true vertical and horizontal lines are created), but also securing the pendulum at any degree of tilt throughout the swing of the pendulum. That is, the first end <b>305</b> of the lock lever may engage any point of the curved bar <b>235</b> as it swings within the first housing <b>100.</b> Consequently, the pendulum <b>205</b> may be stabilized at any position during its swing (e.g., ±6° from its normal (0°) position).

0031As discussed above, the light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> of the first housing 100 may include a laser assembly. <figref idref="f0005">FIGS 4A - 4B</figref> illustrate an exemplary laser assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4A</figref> shows a cross sectional view of a laser assembly according to an embodiment of the invention. The laser assembly may include a laser diode <b>410,</b> a collimating lens <b>420,</b> and a line lens 430. Each of the laser diode <b>410,</b> collimating lens <b>420,</b> and the line lens <b>430</b> may be housed in a laser barrel <b>440.</b> The barrel <b>440</b> may possess, but is not limited to, a substantially cylindrical shape. In addition, the barrel <b>440</b> may be adjustable to permit its repositioning within the first housing <b>100.</b>

0032In operation, the laser diode <b>410</b> directs a laser light beam <b>LB</b> through the collimating lens <b>420.</b> The collimating lens <b>420</b> may form the laser light beam <b>LB</b> into a beam having a generally oval cross-section (<figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4B</figref>), and then the line lens <b>430</b> converts the laser light beam <b>LB</b> into a planar beam (i.e., a laser plane). The line lens <b>430</b> may possess various shapes to accomplish this purpose. By way of example, the line lens <b>430</b> may be a prismatic lens that includes at least two cylindrical lens forms with significantly different focal distances to generate at least two superimposed laser planes with different divergence angles and trajectories. By way of specific example, line lens <b>430</b> may be formed from a large-radius, convex lens segment disposed between two small-radius, concave lens segments. As seen best in <figref idref="f0005">FIG. 4B</figref>, with this configuration, the line lens segment forms three laser light planes superimposed to a single laser light beam onto a surface. The resulting light line is single beam having a symmetrical line pattern that is less intense near the middle and more intense at each end. This ensures the line produced on the support surface is approximately the same when the upper housing is rotated about a vertical axis (discussed in greater detail below). Further details of the laser assembly according to another embodiment of the present invention are disclosed in <patcit id="pcit0004" dnum="US6914930B"><text>U.S. Patent No. 6,914,930</text></patcit> to Raskin et al.

0033Alternatively or in addition to, either light source <b>210A, 210B</b> may be associated with a mirror configured to reflect the light beam <b>LB</b> through a window <b>110A, 110B.</b> The use of mirrors permits a more compact structure. In the embodiment illustrated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, the second light source <b>210B</b> has a mirror <b>250</b> positioned between the collimating lens <b>420</b> and the line lens <b>430.</b> In addition, the mirrors may be adjustable on the pendulum <b>205</b> to calibrate the light beam alignment. This can be accomplished with a spring and screw mechanism.

0034<figref idref="f0006">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a perspective view the line generating assembly <b>10</b> of <figref idref="f0001">FIG. 1A</figref>, showing the operation of the first housing <b>100.</b> As shown, when the assembly <b>10</b> is placed against a support surface (e.g., a vertical surface such as a wall), the first light source <b>210A</b> transmits a first light beam <b>LB1</b> (i.e., a laser plane), which forms a first line <b>LL1</b> on the work surface. Similarly, the second light source <b>210B</b> transmits a second light beam <b>LB2</b> in a second direction, creating a second light line <b>LL2</b> on the work surface. Due to the orientation of the windows <b>110A, 110B,</b> the first light line <b>LL1</b> intersects the second light line <b>LL2</b> proximate the axis of the central aperture <b>125.</b>

0035The line generating assembly <b>10</b> may further be configured such that the first housing <b>100</b> may be selectively repositioned with respect to the second housing <b>105.</b> For example, the first housing <b>100</b> may be rotated about an axis extending through the first and second housings. <figref idref="f0007">FIG. 6</figref> is an exploded view of the line generating assembly <b>10</b> illustrated in <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>, showing the coupling of the first housing <b>100</b> to the second housing <b>105.</b> As shown, a support rod or post <b>600</b> may couple the first housing <b>100</b> to the second housing <b>105</b> such that the post <b>600</b> defines a generally vertical axis extending through the first and second housings. The support post <b>600</b> may include a shaft <b>605,</b> a plate <b>610,</b> and a flange <b>630.</b> The plate <b>610</b> is captured within the first housing <b>100.</b> Furthermore, a collar <b>615,</b> fixed to the second housing <b>105</b> via a receptacle <b>255,</b> rotatably receives the shaft <b>605.</b> Thus, as the first housing <b>100</b> rotates, the second housing remains stationary (e.g., in its normal position) while the <b>shaft 605</b> turns within the collar <b>615.</b>

0036The assembly <b>10</b> may further include a detent mechanism to selectively position/fix the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105.</b> Specifically, the shaft <b>605</b> of the support post <b>600</b> may include a resilient tab <b>620</b> configured to engage one of a plurality of notches <b>625</b> formed in the collar. <figref idref="f0008">FIGS. 7A - 7C</figref> are cross-sectional views of the base taken along line 7 - 7 of <figref idref="f0003">FIG. 2</figref>. In operation, beginning in a first position (<figref idref="f0008">FIG. 7A</figref>), a force may be applied to the first housing <b>100,</b> rotating the shaft <b>605</b> within the collar <b>615.</b> Referring to <figref idref="f0008">FIG. 7B</figref>, as the shaft <b>605</b> rotates (indicated by arrow <b>R),</b> the resilient tab <b>620</b> on the shaft <b>605</b> successively engages the notches <b>625</b> formed in the collar <b>615,</b> securing the collar <b>615</b> in a desired position.

0037In this manner, the first housing <b>100</b> of the line generating assembly <b>10</b> may be rotated about the vertical axis defined by the shaft <b>605.</b> The degree of rotation may include, but is not limited to, any degree of rotation up to and including 360°. By way of example, the support post <b>600</b> may limit the rotation of first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing to 180°. Specifically, the shaft <b>605</b> of the support post <b>600</b> may include a flange <b>630</b> with shoulders <b>635</b> located 180° apart. The shoulders <b>635</b> are configured engage a stop rib <b>640</b> located within the second housing <b>105.</b> Thus, as the shaft <b>605</b> is rotated, the shoulder <b>635</b> engages the stop rib <b>640,</b> preventing further rotation of the shaft <b>605</b> (seen best in <figref idref="f0008">FIGS. 7A and 7C</figref>).

0038<figref idref="f0009">FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C</figref> are front views of the line generating assembly <b>10,</b> showing the rotation of the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105.</b> With the above described configuration, the line generating unit <b>100</b> may be reoriented from a first position to a second position and, as such, enables a user to selectively orient the direction of the light beams <b>LB1, LB2</b> generated onto the work surface. Referring to <figref idref="f0009">FIG. 8A</figref>, the first housing <b>100</b> begins in a first normal position, in which the first light beam <b>LB1</b> (transmitted through the first window <b>110A)</b> is transmitted in a generally horizontal direction, toward the right side of the assembly <b>10</b> (from the perspective of <figref idref="f0009">FIGS. 8A - 8C</figref>). Rotating the first housing <b>100</b> (indicated by arrow <b>R)</b> reorients the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105,</b> moving it from the first normal position to a second normal position, in which the first light beam <b>LB1</b> (transmitted through the first window <b>110A)</b> is transmitted in a generally horizontal direction, toward the left side of the assembly <b>10</b> (from the perspective of <figref idref="f0009">FIGS. 8A - 8C</figref>). In either the first or second normal positions, the second light beam LB2 (transmitted through the second window <b>110B)</b> is transmitted in a generally vertical direction. In this manner, the assembly <b>10</b> is capable of selectively orienting the direction of the light beams <b>LB1</b>, <b>LB2</b> onto the work surface (e.g., a generally vertical wall).

0039Alternatively or in addition to, the first housing <b>100</b> may be adapted to rotate within a plane including or parallel to the second housing <b>105</b> (i.e., it may rotate within a plane generally parallel to the surface onto which light line are generated). <figref idref="f0010">FIGS. 9A - 9C</figref> illustrate bottom views of the first housing <b>100</b> in isolation. The first housing <b>100</b> may include a channel or slot <b>900</b> with a keyhole <b>910.</b> The support post <b>600</b> may slide along the slot <b>900</b> (indicated by arrow S), permitting the angular pivot of the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105.</b> The slot <b>900</b> may define a degree of pivot that includes, but is not limited to, about 45°.

0040<figref idref="f0011">FIGS. 10A and 10B</figref> are front views of the line generating assembly <b>10,</b> showing the pivotal motion of the first housing <b>100</b> with respect to the second housing <b>105.</b> Referring the <figref idref="f0011">FIG. 10A</figref>, the first housing begins in its first normal position, in which the first light beam <b>LB1</b> (transmitted through the first window <b>110A)</b> is transmitted in a generally horizontal direction and/or the second light beam <b>LB2</b> (transmitted through the second window <b>110B) is</b> transmitted in a generally vertical direction. At the first normal position, the support post <b>600</b> is positioned within the keyhole <b>910</b> as described above. Referring to <figref idref="f0011">FIG. 10B</figref>, applying a force (indicated by arrow <b>R)</b> rotates the first housing <b>100</b> from the first normal position, to a second position offset from normal. In the second position, the first light beam <b>LB1</b> may be directed in a direction offset from the horizontal, and/or the second light beam <b>LB2</b> may be transmitted in a direction offset from the vertical. In this manner, the first housing <b>100</b> rotates about a generally horizontal axis, and specifically about the axis <b>125</b> defined by the central aperture of the first housing <b>100</b>. This enables the rotation of the first housing <b>100</b> to alter the "protractor angle" of the light beams <b>LB1, LB2</b> on the support/work surface.

0041With the above described configuration, the line generating assembly <b>10</b> may be configured to provide two degrees of rotation, e.g., along horizontal and vertical axes, allowing a user to alter the position and direction of light beams on a work surface. In other words, the first housing <b>100</b> is capable of moving in a first direction, in which the first housing rotates within a first plane including the second housing 105, and in a second direction, in which the first housing rotates in a second plane generally transverse to the first plane.

0042The light line generating device may further be adapted to couple to a support or work surface such as a wall. <figref idref="f0012">FIGS. 11A and 11B</figref> illustrate front and rear perspective views of a bracket or mounting accessory <b>1100</b> operable to support the light line generating device proximate a work surface. The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may include a structure operable to couple to a supporting surface such as a wall or floor. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> includes a body <b>1105</b> having a first or front surface <b>1110</b> and a second or rear surface <b>1115.</b> The body <b>1105</b> may have any shape and/or dimensions suitable for its described purpose. The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may include hooks <b>1120</b> that releasably mate with the slots or sockets <b>160</b> on the second housing <b>105</b> of the light line generating device <b>10</b> (as explained above, the sockets <b>160</b> may be located on the rear housing portion <b>155).</b> The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may further include guide members <b>1125</b> to align the line generating device <b>10</b> onto the accessory.

0043The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may be adapted to provide multiple modes of attachment. For example, the rear surface <b>1115</b> of the body <b>1105</b> may include a recess <b>1130</b> operable to receive a double sided adhesive strip (adhesive strip not - illustrated). The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may further include a plank <b>1135</b> with a hole <b>1140</b> operable to receive a pointed fastener <b>1210</b> (e.g., a pushpin, nail, tack, etc.) that extends through the hole <b>1140</b> to engage the work surface and secure the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> thereto. The plank <b>1135</b> may further include a fastener opening <b>1145</b> configured to receive a fastener such as a screw. The fastener opening <b>1145</b> may include an aperture adapted to receive a fastener and a conical recess designed to receive the head and shank of the fastener such that it self centers on the conical recess. In operation, once the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> is placed in a desired position, a fastener is inserted into the opening <b>1145</b> and engages the work surface. The head of the fastener is positioned within the conical recess, supporting the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> on the work surface. Additional information regarding the securing mechanisms may be found in <patcit id="pcit0005" dnum="US441451A" dnum-type="L"><text>U.S. Patent Application No. 11/441,451</text></patcit> .

0044The plank <b>1135</b> of the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may be repositioned with respect to the body <b>1105.</b> Specifically, the body <b>1105</b> may include a plurality of guide rails <b>1150</b> along which the plank <b>1135</b> moves. The plank may further include teeth <b>1155</b> that engage the guide rails <b>1150,</b> providing a series of detents that secure the plank at a desired height

0045<figref idref="f0013">FIG. 12</figref> illustrates a side perspective view of the line generating assembly <b>10</b> including the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> coupled thereto. In operation, the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> is connected to the rear portion <b>155</b> of the second housing <b>105.</b> The hooks <b>1120</b> of the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> engage the slots <b>160</b> of the second housing <b>105,</b> coupling the line generating assembly <b>10 to</b> the mounting accessory <b>1100.</b> A user may then connect the entire assembly <b>10</b> to a work surface by placing the mounting accessory <b>1100</b> at the desired height, and then inserting a pointed fastener into the hole <b>1140</b> or a screw into the opening <b>1145.</b> The user may further adjust the height of the plank <b>1135</b> (e.g., by sliding it up/down) to position the fastener accordingly (e.g., the user can align the fastener with the axis <b>125</b> of the first housing <b>100).</b> The user may then operate the device to generate light lines on the work surface, reorienting the protractor angle and/or the horizon direction of the lines as described above.

0046While the present invention has been described in detail and with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. For example, the first <b>100</b> and second housings <b>105</b> of the line generating assembly <b>10</b> may possess any suitable dimensions, and may be any shape suitable for its described purpose (to house components of the assembly therein). For example, the second housing <b>105</b> may include a U-shaped structure. The second housing <b>105</b> may be aligned along the same plane as the first housing <b>100,</b> or may extend at an angle (e.g., an obtuse angle) from the first housing <b>100.</b> In addition, the light source <b>210A, 210B</b> may be any source capable of producing a light line on a support or work surface such as a generally vertical wall or a generally horizontal floor.

0047The number, shape, and/or dimensions of the windows <b>110A, 110B</b> are not particularly limited to that which is illustrated herein. In addition, the windows <b>110A, 110B</b> may be angularly spaced about the first housing <b>100</b> at any angle suitable for their described purpose. The windows <b>110A, 110B,</b> moreover, may be sized to prevent the light beam <b>LB1, LB2</b> from projecting out of the first housing 100 when the pendulum assembly 200 contacts another component disposed within housing 100. Additionally, the windows <b>110A, 110B,</b> may further prevent the light beams <b>LB1, LB2</b> from exiting the housing 100 when the pendulum assembly <b>200</b> approaches the limits of its angular range. In other words, assuming an angular range being between about -6° to about +6° from normal (i.e., a vertical centerline to where the pendulum assembly <b>200</b> self-levels), and where pendulum assembly 200 may travel at any angle beyond this range, the size and/or shape of the windows <b>110A, 110B</b> may be configured to block the light beams when the pendulum <b>205</b> travels beyond about -5° and/or about +5° from normal. This configuration prevents a user from relying on the emitted beam (as substantially horizontal or vertical) when the pendulum has nearly reached or surpassed its range of motion - as the beam may no longer actually represent true plumb or horizon.

0048The number and positioning of the light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> is not particularly limited to that which is shown herein. The light sources <b>210A, 210B</b> may include any structure operable to form a light line a surface. The laser source <b>410,</b> collimating lens, and/or line lens <b>430</b> may be formed into any shape suitable for their described purposes. For example, the collimating lens may be a cylindrical lens operable to convert the laser light beam into light line. The line lens <b>430,</b> moreover, may possess any shape operable to converts the laser light beam <b>LB</b> into a planar beam (i.e., a laser plane). For example, the line lens <b>430</b> may possess a substantially circular cross-section, a generally half-circle cross-section, a generally quarter-circle cross-section, and/or a compound cross-section, which includes a rectangle connected to a quarter-circle.

0049In addition, the first <b>140</b> and/or second actuators <b>145</b> may be any actuator suitable for their described purposes, and may include any suitable switch (mechanical press, slide, etc.) and be disposed at any suitable location. The line generating assembly <b>10</b> in accordance with the present invention may further include a stud sensor circuit. Information relating to the stud sensor circuitry may be found in <patcit id="pcit0006" dnum="US4099118A"><text>U.S. Patent Nos. 4,099,118</text></patcit> and <patcit id="pcit0007" dnum="US4464622A"><text>4,464,622</text></patcit> .

0050The line generating assembly <b>10</b> may include a safety mechanism that prevents the rotation of the first housing about the support post <b>600</b> when the first housing is not in its normal position. For example, as explained above, the keyhole <b>910</b> of channel <b>900</b> receives the shaft <b>605</b> and collar <b>615.</b> While in the keyhole <b>910,</b> the shaft <b>605</b> may be rotated as described above. However, when the shaft <b>605</b> is positioned along a portion of the channel <b>900</b> away from the keyhole (i.e., when the first housing is pivoted offset from normal), the rotation of the first housing <b>100</b> may be prevented by the collar <b>615.</b> This provides a safety mechanism, preventing the rotation of the first housing <b>100</b> when it is pivoted to a protractor angle.

0051The support post <b>600,</b> which permits the first housing <b>100</b> to rotate left-to-right (and vice versa) with respect to the second housing <b>105,</b> may further include additional stops to limit the rotation of the first housing (e.g. other than about 180 degrees). Similarly, stops may be provided so that the first housing 100 can slide in along the slot <b>900</b> and detent at a desired protractor angle (e.g., 0, 45, or 90 degrees).

0052The mounting accessory <b>1100</b> may further include a measurement device operable to measure the protractor angle of the first housing. For example, a 360° protractor may be provided.

0053Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations of this invention provided they come within the scope of the appended claims. It is to be understood that terms such as "top", "bottom", "front", "rear", "side", "height", "length", "width", "upper", "lower", "interior", "exterior", and the like as may be used herein, merely describe points of reference and do not limit the present invention to any particular orientation or configuration.