BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1 . Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates generally to tools and tool accessories. More particularly, the present invention relates to hand tools including a tether.

2. Description of the Prior Art

[0002] Carpenters, designers, facilities maintenance personnel, and other workers often use a tape measure, level, cordless drill, or other hand-held tool on the job. Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of a tape measure 5 known in the art and having a tool housing 1 0 that contains a coiled tape 12. Tool housing 10 has a substantially planar first sidewall 14 and a substantially planar second sidewall 16 (not visible) spaced apart from and parallel to first sidewall 14. In many embodiments, a clip 18 is attached to first sidewall 14 of tool housing 1 0 and useful for attaching tape measure 5 to a belt or clothing. Extending between first sidewall 14 and second sidewall 16 are a front wall 20, a top wall, 22, a back wall 24 (not visible), and a bottom wall 26 (not visible). Bottom wall 26 is typically planar to facilitate the worker in setting tape measure 5 on a surface when taking a measurement. Front wall 20, top wall 22, and back wall 24 are substantially planar in some embodiments, but are curved in other embodiments. Tape measure 5 includes a tape lock 30 that is moved into contact with tape 12 to maintain tape 12 at a fixed length of extension from tool housing 10. Tape lock 30 may be a button, a sliding lock, or other type of lock. When lock 30 is a sliding lock, it moves between an unlocked position (shown) and a locked position (not shown) by sliding lock 30 along a slot 32 in tool housing 10 in a direction indicated by arrow 34 toward tape 1 2. [0003] Between uses, the user may use the clip to attach the tape measure to his or her belt, pocket opening, or waistband. Instead of using the clip to attach the tape measure to a belt or the like, a worker may place it in a pocket or holder on a tool belt to secure and hold the tape measure between measurement tasks. One version of a tape measure holder is a relatively loose-fitting cloth pouch with a loop for attaching the pouch to a tool belt. The pouch is sized to accommodate the tape measure and has an open upper end for insertion and removal of the tape measure.

[0004] For more securely holding the tape measure between uses, some workers use a tape measure holder with a shape that is more specific to the block shape of a tape measure. In one design, the tape measure holder has a horizontal strap that connects at each end to a belt and wraps around the tape measure in a horizontal direction. A second strap connects to the horizontal strap and wraps vertically around the bottom of the tape measure. In some designs, the vertical strap continues around the back and over the top of the tape measure with a loose end that closes on itself with a snap. The loose end of the vertical strap can be opened to release the tape measure and closed to retain the tape measure in the holder. In this design, the straps substantially enclose the entire tape measure. In some cases, lower corners of the tape measure holder are open to assist the user in pushing the tape measure up and out of the holder with the user's fingers.

[0005] Despite the many techniques available for holding a tape measure between uses, dropping a tape measure during use or inadvertently knocking it loose from the worker remains a safety concern. For example, after the user removes the tape measure from a pouch or pocket, unexpectedly bumping one's hand against another object may cause the worker to drop the tape measure. In other cases, a worker climbing on a ladder or scaffolding may bump the tape measure against the structure, knocking it loose from its clipped position on the user. [0006] Attempts to address the concern of dropped tape measures include designs that attach a tether or lanyard to the tape measure. In one design, a lanyard has a loop sized to hook onto the tape measure's clip. In another design, the tape measure housing has a pass-through opening through which a string is attached and looped around the user's wrist or connected to the user's clothing.

[0007] Another approach is a tape measure tool with lanyard as disclosed in US patent no. 8,683,710 issued to Michael Johns. The Johns tape measure has a single housing containing two hubs, each hub having a coiled spring within the hub and connected to one central shaft. A flexible, retractable tape measure is coiled around the first hub. A retractable safety lanyard is coiled around the second hub. The safety lanyard is a length of cable that passes through an opening on the narrow face of the device opposite the opening for the tape measure on the front portion of the housing.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The tape measure holders and tape measures lanyards of the prior art do not adequately solve the problem of tethering a tape measure during use. Current designs for tape measure holders are useful for securing the tape measure when it is not being used. These tape measure holders provide a location to store the tape measure, but require the user to remove the tape measure from the holder for use at which point it is no longer secure. Lanyards that attach to the clip of a tape measure also have disadvantages. Because the lanyard is attached to the clip of the tape measure, the lanyard may easily be pulled through the open end of the clip and therefore does not reliably retain the tape measure if it is dropped. Another disadvantage of attaching the lanyard to the tape measure's clip is that the clip is obstructed for attachment to a belt or clothing. [0009] Tape measures with a tool housing that features a through opening or a built-in connector for attaching a string also have disadvantages. The opening for the string may not be sized to accept a clip or other lanyard connector. Also, strings supplied by the manufacturer and attached through the opening are often not useful for securing the tape measure because the string is only long enough to loop around the worker's wrist. Strings supplied by the user must be tied in a knot to secure it to the tape measure, which has inconsistent reliability from worker to worker.

Additionally, workers who are accustomed to a particular make and model of tape measure may not be able to purchase the chosen tape measure equipped with an opening in the tool housing. Further, tape measures attached to a lanyard of a fixed length between the tape measure and the user can be cumbersome to use since the lanyard often gets in the way or becomes tangled on the work piece or other equipment. These problems also apply to other hand tools, including carpenter's levels, torpedo levels, cordless drills and other cordless power tools, staplers, and tools having a tool housing.

[0010] Based on the shortcomings of prior approaches to tethering hand tools, a need exists for hand tools with a retractable tether or lanyard. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a hand tool that includes a retractable tether. The present invention achieves these and other objectives by providing a hand tool with a retractable tether assembly. In one aspect of the present invention, the hand tool is a tape measure with a tool housing that contains both a retractable tape assembly and a retractable tether assembly. In another aspect of the present invention, the hand tool is a level or cordless power tool, where the retractable tether assembly is attached to or retained by a tool body or tool housing.

[0011] In one embodiment, the hand tool is a tape measure where the tool body is a tool housing having a first sidewall portion, a second sidewall portion spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first sidewall portion, and a perimeter sidewall portion extending between and connecting the first sidewall portion to the second sidewall portion. The tool housing defines a tape opening and a tether opening. A tape spool axle extends from the first sidewall portion towards the second sidewall portion. A tape spool with a tape spool opening is disposed within the tool housing and rotatable about the tape spool axle. A flexible measuring tape is attached at a first tape end portion to the tape spool, where the tape spool is operable between a retracted or first tape position in which the flexible measuring tape is substantially coiled about the tape spool and an extended or second tape position in which the flexible measuring tape is at least partially uncoiled from the tape spool with a second tape end portion extending through the tape opening and away from the tool housing. A tape spool coil spring connected between the tape spool and the tape spool axle biases the tape spool towards the first tape position. A tether spool axle extends within the tool housing in a direction generally transverse to the tape spool axle. The tether spool axle is positioned so that it does not interfere with rotation of the tape spool axle. A tether spool is disposed within the housing and rotatable about the tether spool axle. A flexible tether is attached at a first tether end to the tether spool. The flexible tether is operable between a retracted or first tether position in which the flexible tether is substantially coiled about the tether spool and an extended or second tether position in which the flexible tether is at least partially uncoiled from the tether spool with the second tether end portion extending through the tether opening and away from the housing. A tether spool coil spring connected between the tether spool and the tether spool axle biases the tether spool towards the first tether position.

[0012] In another embodiment, a partition or support structure is connected to an inside portion of the tool housing and disposed between the tape spool and the tether spool. The tether spool axle is connected to and extends from the partition or support structure in some embodiments.

[0013] In another embodiment, a stop member is attached to the second tether end and disposed outside the tool housing, where the stop member has a size sufficient to prevent its passage through the tether opening.

[0014] In another embodiment, a tether connector defines a closed loop and is attached to the second tether end, where the tether connector is disposed outside the tool housing.

[0015] In one embodiment, the tape spool is disposed adjacent a rear portion of the perimeter sidewalk In one embodiment, the tether opening is in a rear end portion of the tool housing.

[0016] In another embodiment, the hand tool is a tape measure where the tool housing includes a first housing portion has a first sidewall, a second sidewall spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the first sidewall, and a perimeter sidewall extending between and connecting the first sidewall to the second sidewall. The first sidewall, the second sidewall and the perimeter sidewall define a tape spool compartment. The housing defines a tape opening. A tether housing extends away from the second sidewall of the first housing portion and defines a tether spool compartment between the tether housing and the second sidewall. The tether housing defines a tether opening. A tape spool is disposed within the tape spool compartment and rotatable about a tape spool axle extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall. A flexible measuring tape is attached at a first tape end portion to the tape spool, where the measuring tape is operable between a retracted or first tape position in which the flexible measuring tape is substantially coiled about the tape spool and an extended or second tape position in which the flexible measuring tape is at least partially uncoiled from the tape spool with a second tape end portion extending through the tape opening and away from the housing. A tape spool coil spring is connected between the tape spool and the tape spool axle, where the tape spool coil spring biases the tape spool towards the first tape position. A tether spool is disposed within the tether spool compartment and rotatable about a tether spool axle extending into the tether spool compartment. A flexible tether is attached to the tether spool at a first tether end. A second tether end extends through the tether opening, where the tether spool is operable between a retracted or first tether position in which the flexible tether is substantially coiled about the tether spool and an extended or second tether position in which the flexible tether is at least partially uncoiled from the second spool with the second tether end portion extending through the tether opening and away from the housing. A tether spool coil spring connected between the tether spool and the tether spool axle biases the tether spool towards the first tether position.

[0017] In another embodiment, the tether spool axle is connected to and extends from the tether housing towards the second sidewalk

[0018] In another embodiment, the tether spool axle is coaxial with the tape spool axle. In some embodiments, the tether spool axle is spaced apart from the tape spool axle.

[0019] In another embodiment, the tether housing substantially encloses the tether spool compartment.

[0020] In another embodiment, the tether housing is removable from the first housing portion.

[0021] In another embodiment, the housing includes a guide member disposed between the tape spool and the tether spool, wherein the guide member is received in the tape spool opening and engages the tether spool axle. [0022] In another aspect of the present invention, a hand tool has a tether housing attached to the tool body and defines a tether spool compartment. A tether spool is disposed in and rotatable within the tether spool compartment. A flexible tether has a tether body extending between a first tether end portion and a second tether end portion, where the first tether end portion is attached to the tether spool. The tether spool is operable between a first and second tether positions. In the first tether position, a tether body is coiled about the tether spool. In the second tether position, the tether body is at least partially uncoiled from the tether spool with the second tether end portion extending through the tether opening and away from the tether housing. A tether spool coil spring is connected to the tether spool and biases the tether spool to rotate towards the first tether position.

[0023] In another embodiment, the tool body is a tool housing of a tape measure, a level, or a power hand tool.

[0024] In another embodiment, the tool body is a portion of a cordless drill.

[0025] In another embodiment, the hand tool body is a portion of a spirit level extending between a pair of spaced-apart, elongated rails, where the tether spool compartment is located between the pair of spaced-apart elongated rails.

[0026] Many other uses and configurations of the hand tool with retractable tether are contemplated within the scope of the present invention as will become evident from the figures and detailed description that follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a tape measure known in the art. [0028] FIGURE 2 is a rear and side perspective view of one embodiment of a tape measure of the present invention showing the tool housing, retractable tape, and retractable tether.

[0029] FIGURE 3 is a front and side perspective view of the tape measure of Fig. 2 showing the retractable tape and retractable tether both in a retracted position.

[0030] FIGURE 4 is an exploded, perspective view of the tape measure of Fig. 3 as viewed looking at front and first sidewall portions of the tool housing.

[0031] FIGURE 5 is an exploded, perspective view of the tape measure of Fig. 2 as viewed looking at the rear and second sidewall portions of the tool housing.

[0032] FIGURE 6 is side elevational view of the tape measure of Fig. 2 shown without the first sidewall portion for clarity purposes.

[0033] FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a tape measure of the present invention showing a tether housing on the second sidewall, where the tether housing houses the tether spool.

[0034] FIGURE 8 is an exploded, perspective view of the tape measure of Fig. 7 as viewed looking at the front and second sidewall portions.

[0035] FIGURE 9 is a perspective view looking into the housing second portion and showing the retractable tether assembly and guide member.

[0036] FIGURE 10 is an exploded, perspective view of one embodiment of a retractable tape assembly of the present invention.

[0037] FIGURE 1 1 is an exploded, perspective view of one embodiment of a retractable tether assembly of the present invention.

[0038] FIGURE 12 is a perspective view of another hand tool constructed with a retractable tether assembly, where the hand tool is a level.

[0039] FIGURE 13 is a side view of another hand tool constructed with a retractable tether assembly, where the hand tool is a cordless drill. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0040] In this specification, the term "tool body" means that portion of a hand tool that contains and/or supports a functioning component of the hand tool, where the functioning component is essential to the hand tool's intended use. For example, a bubble vial is a functioning component of a level, a motor and drill chuck are functioning components of a cordless drill, and a retractable tape is a functioning component of a tape measure.

[0041] The preferred embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in Figs. 2-13. Figures 2 and 3 illustrate rear and front perspective views, respectively, of one embodiment of a hand tool 100 with retractable tape assembly 200 and a retractable tether assembly 300. In this embodiment, hand tool 100 is a tape measure that includes a tool body or tool housing 1 10 with a first sidewall portion 1 12, a second sidewall portion 1 14 that is spaced apart from and substantially parallel to first sidewall portion 1 12, and a perimeter sidewall portion 1 16 that extends between and connects first sidewall portion 1 1 2 to second sidewall portion 1 14. Perimeter sidewall portion 1 16 has a top portion 1 16a, a front portion 1 1 6b, a rear portion 1 16c, and a bottom portion 1 16d. Typically, bottom portion 1 16d is substantially planar so that it may rest flush against a surface to be measured. Top portion 1 16a may be curved or angular to define a geometric or irregular shape.

[0042] Tool housing 1 10 of the tape measure defines a tape opening 1 18 and a tether opening 120. Tether opening 1 20 is shown in other figures, but is hidden from view in Figs. 2-3 due to stop member 322 and tether connector 31 2. Tool housing 1 10 also defines and encloses a spool compartment 122 (not visible; shown in Fig. 4), which communicates with tape opening 1 18 and tether opening 120. As used herein, terms top, front, rear, and bottom are for reference purposes only and identify portions of hand tool 1 00 as it is commonly positioned during use. For example, Figs. 2-3 show a tape measure as it is commonly positioned during use. These terms do not restrict the use or orientation of hand tool 100.

[0043] In one embodiment, tool housing 1 1 0 comprises a housing first portion 1 10a and a housing second portion 1 10b, where perimeter sidewall portion 1 16 is divided between housing first portion 1 10a and housing second portion 1 1 0b. For example, housing first portion 1 10a includes first sidewall portion 1 12 and part (e.g., about half) of perimeter sidewall portion 1 16, and housing second portion 1 10b includes second sidewall portion 1 14 and another part (e.g., about half) of perimeter sidewall portion 1 10b. Housing first portion 1 10a connects to housing second portion 1 10b, such as by a snap fit, fastener connection, adhesive, fusion, welding, or other method. In one embodiment, housing first portion 1 10a substantially mirrors housing second portion 1 10b. In other embodiments, housing first portion 1 10a includes perimeter sidewall portion 1 16 and housing second portion 1 10b, which includes second sidewall portion 1 14, attaches to housing first portion 1 10a like a lid or cover.

[0044] Referring now to Figure 4, an exploded, perspective view illustrates the hand tool 100 of Figs. 2-3, which is a tape measure, as viewed looking at first sidewall portion 1 12 and front portion 1 16b of sidewall portion 1 16. Tool housing 1 10 and spool compartment 122 are split between housing first portion 1 10a shown in the lower portion of Fig. 4 and housing second portion 1 10b shown in the upper portion of Fig. 4. Housing second portion 1 1 0b shows inside surface 1 14b of second sidewall portion 1 14 and includes a guide member 140 protruding from inside surface 1 14b.

[0045] An optional partition 1 32 separates spool compartment 122 into a tape spool compartment 122a and a tether spool compartment 122b. Tape spool compartment 122a is sized to house retractable tape assembly 200 with a portion of measuring tape 216 extending through tape opening 1 18. Tether spool compartment 122b is sized and positioned to house retractable tether assembly 300 with a portion of tether 31 6 extending through tether opening 120. In one embodiment, tether spool compartment 122b is adjacent rear portion 1 16c and/or top portion 1 16a of perimeter sidewall 1 16. For example, tether spool compartment 122b is positioned so that at least part of tape spool 202 is between tape opening 1 1 8 and tether spool 302. In some embodiments, tool housing 1 10 omits partition 132 and tape spool compartment 122a and tether spool compartment 122b are defined by an imaginary line between tape spool 202 and tether spool 302.

[0046] In one embodiment, partition 132 is split between housing first portion 1 10a and housing second portion 1 1 0b. In one embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, partition 132 extends between and connects to second sidewall portion 1 12, top portion 1 16a, and bottom portion 1 16d of perimeter sidewall 1 1 6 in substantially parallel relation to rear portion 1 16c of perimeter wall 1 16. In other embodiments, partition extends across spool compartment 122 between and connecting first sidewall portion 1 12 and second sidewall portion 1 14. Although partition 132 is shown as extending completely between opposing first and second sidewall portions 1 12, 1 14 and between opposing top and bottom portions 1 16a, 1 1 6d of perimeter sidewall 1 16, this is not required. In some embodiments, for example, partition 132 is replaced by a support structure within tool housing 1 10, such as a post, flange, bracket, or protrusion that extends from one or more walls of tool housing 1 1 0 sufficient to support and/or guide the rotation of a second spool 302 or tether spool 302. In yet other embodiments, partition 132 is omitted and tether spool 302 is supported by and rotates about a fastener or other connector 304 connected to perimeter sidewall 1 1 6 and extending into tool housing 1 10. For example, rear portion 1 16c of perimeter sidewall 1 16 defines a fastener opening 123 to receive connector 304 for tether spool 302.

Optionally, a corresponding second fastener opening 123a in partition 132 aligns with fastener opening 123. One or both of fastener openings 1 23, 123a is optionally threaded.

[0047] In one embodiment, a guide member 140 is attached to, formed with, or otherwise protrudes from inside face 1 14a of second sidewall portion 1 14 into spool compartment 122. Guide member 140, which may be one or a plurality of individual parts, extends from inside face 1 14a to guide the rotation of a tape spool 202. Guide member 140 also may provide some support to tape spool 202. Guide member 140 in one embodiment has a disk-shape and is sized both in diameter and thickness to appropriately fit into corresponding structure of tape spool 202. For example, guide member 140 is a disk-shaped structure that protrudes from inside face 1 14a of second sidewall portion 1 14 and extends into a tape spring opening 206 (not visible; shown in Fig. 5). As another example, guide member 140 is a plurality of spaced-apart tabs that extend from inside face 1 14a of second sidewall portion 1 14. The spaced-apart tabs in one embodiment are evenly spaced along the path of a circle. The spaced- apart tabs extend into and engage tape spring opening 206.

[0048] In other embodiments, guide member 140 is a separate component from tool housing 1 10 that fits into and guides rotation of tape spool 202. Guide member 140 in some embodiments covers tape spool coil spring 230 and supports a tether spool axle 304 for rotation of tether spool 302.

[0049] Tape spool 202 includes a first flange 208 and a second flange 210 spaced apart from first flange 208 by a spool hub 21 2, where each flange 208, 210 is attached or connected to opposite ends of spool hub 212. First flange 208 defines a central axle opening 214 for rotation about a tape spool axle 136 or other protrusion received therein from first sidewall portion 1 10. A measuring tape 216 is secured at a first tape end portion 218 (not visible) to spool hub 212. In its retracted or partially retracted position, measuring tape 216 wraps on itself around spool hub 21 2. Second tape end portion 220 extends through tape opening 1 18 and includes tape catch 222.

[0050] Retractable tether assembly 300 includes a tether spool 302 similar to tape spool 202 that also includes a first flange 306 and a second flange 308 spaced apart from first flange 306 by a tether spool hub 310, where each flange 306, 308 is attached or connected to ends of tether spool hub 31 0. A tether 31 6 attaches to tether spool hub 310 at a first tether end portion 318 (not visible) and wraps around tether spool hub 310 in a retracted position. A second tether end portion 320 extends from tether spool 302 and through tether opening 1 20. Second tether end portion 320 optionally includes a stop member 322 that is larger than tether opening 120 and prevents second tether end portion 320 from passing through tether opening 1 20 into tool housing 1 10 as tether 316 is retracted into tool housing 1 10. Stop member 322 may be a knot in tether 316, a bead, a ball, a crimp, a fastener, a connector, or any other object that is larger than tether opening 120 and appropriately sized for use with tape measure 100.

[0051] A portion of tether spool axle 304 is shown extending through tether spool hub 31 0. Tether spool axle 304 may be a fastener, pin, rod, split shaft, or other item about which tether spool 302 rotates. In some embodiments, tether spool axle 304 is a threaded fastener and a washer and/or nut may be attached to tether spool axle 304 to secure tether spool 302 to tool housing 1 1 0 at fastener opening 123. The end of tether spool axle 304 may be received by guide member 140. In other embodiments, tether spool axle 304 extends into and engages threaded second fastener opening 123a in partition 132 or other support structure disposed within tool housing 1 1 0. In yet other embodiments, tether spool axle 304 extends through partition 132 and is secured by a washer and nut (not shown) attached to tether spool axle 304. In some embodiments, tether spool axle 304 is a split shaft similar to tape spool axle 136 as shown in Fig. 5 and is fixed to partition 132 or tool housing 1 10 to support and guide the rotation of tether spool 302. In some embodiments, tether spool axle is distinct and separate component from tape spool axle 136.

[0052] In some embodiments, housing first portion 1 10a includes a corresponding portion (e.g., about half) of partition 1 32. In some embodiments, partition 132 extends from housing second portion 1 10b so that it extends into and is received in housing first portion 1 10a. Of course, partition 1 32 may instead be attached to housing first portion 1 10 or first sidewall portion 1 12 and extend towards second sidewall portion 1 14.

[0053] Although not shown in the embodiment of Figs. 2-3, tape measure 100 optionally includes a tape lock and release mechanism 128 as discussed below with reference to Fig. 8. For example, one embodiment of tape lock and release mechanism 128 known in the art includes a locking pad (not shown) located inside tool housing 1 10. As measuring tape 1 16 is dispensed from tool housing 1 10 to an extended position, the locking pad presses measuring tape 1 16 against the inside of housing 1 1 6, such as against bottom portion 1 16d of perimeter sidewall 1 16. When it is desired to unlock measuring tape 1 16, a force applied by the user from the sidewall portion 1 12 or 1 14 causes the locking pad to lift out of its position in contact with measuring tape 1 16. This force may be supplied by a press button or lever.

Measuring tape 1 16 is then recoiled into the housing. In another embodiment, tape lock and release mechanism 1 28 has an integrally formed ratchet plate (not shown). The ratchet plate engages ratchet teeth that are integrally formed within the inside surface of tool housing 1 10 to provide for rotation of tape spool axle 136 to load tape spool coil spring 230. The ratchet teeth normally prevent rotation of the axle to unload tension of tape spool coil spring 230. A release mechanism (not shown), such as a push button or lever, allows tape spool axle 136 to move axially to disengage the ratchet plate from the ratchet teeth and permit tape spool axle 230 to unload tape spool coil spring 230. A lock button with a thumb operating section on tool housing 1 10 has a flexible section that regulates the pressure that the bottom end of the lock button exerts against the tape.

[0054] As shown in Fig. 4, housing first portion 1 10a includes first sidewall portion 1 12, part of perimeter sidewall 1 16, and part of partition 132. First sidewall portion includes tape spool axle 1 36 extending into spool compartment 122 to rotatably support tape spool 202. In some embodiments, tape spool axle 136 is fixed to first wall portion 1 12 and extends towards second sidewall portion 1 14. Tape spool axle 136 may be secured to second sidewall portion 1 14 with a fastener extending through second sidewall portion 1 14 into tape spool axle 136. In other embodiments, tape spool axle 136 is a separate piece from first sidewall portion 1 1 2 and is held in abutment with first sidewall portion 1 12 by a fastener extending through first sidewall portion 1 12 into tape spool axle 136. In some embodiments, tape spool axle 136 has a shaft opening 138, such as a groove, a slot, a hole, a recess, etc. that is shaped to connects to an end of a tape spool coil spring 230 (shown in Fig. 5).

[0055] Referring now to Figure 5, an exploded, perspective view illustrates the tape measure embodiment of hand tool 100 of Figs. 2-3 as viewed looking at first sidewall portion 1 12 and front portion 1 16b of perimeter sidewall portion 1 16. As in Fig. 4, tool housing 1 1 0 and spool compartment 122 are split between housing first portion 1 10a (shown in the upper portion of Fig. 5) and housing second portion 1 10b (shown in the lower portion of Fig. 5).

[0056] Inside face 1 12a of first sidewall portion 1 1 2 includes tape spool axle 136 extending into tool housing 1 10. As shown here, shaft opening 1 38 is a slot extending axially into tape spool axle 136. Retractable tape assembly 200, shown in the middle of Fig. 5, includes a tape spool coil spring 230 disposed within spool opening 206. A first end portion 232 of tape spool coil spring 230 is bent at an angle so that it can extend into or through shaft opening 1 38 of tape spool axle 136. Second end portion 234 of tape spool coil spring 230 is secured to spool hub 212. Accordingly, as measuring tape 216 is extended from tool housing 1 1 0, tape spool 202 spins about tape spool axle 136 and coils or uncoils tape spool coil spring 230 to develop a spring force that biases retractable tape assembly 200 to return to the retracted state in which measuring tape 216 is wrapped around tape spool 202 to the extent that tape catch 222 abuts tool housing 1 10 at tape opening 1 1 8.

[0057] In contrast to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 4, partition 1 32 of Fig. 5 extends from first sidewall portion 1 12 beyond housing first portion 1 1 0 to be received in housing second portion 1 10b. When assembled, partition 1 32 abuts or nearly abuts second sidewall portion 1 14. In one embodiment, tether housing 1 10b includes slots, tabs, protrusions or other structures to guide and position partition 132 as it is inserted into tether housing 1 10b.

[0058] Tether spool axle 304 is shown installed through rear portion 1 1 6c of perimeter sidewall 1 16 and through partition 132. When assembled, tether spool axle 304 extends into or through tether spool 302 and engages tether spool coil spring 330 similar to as discussed above for tape spool coil spring 230. Thus, as tether 316 is deployed through tether opening 1 20, tether spool 302 rotates about tether spool axle 304. As it rotates, tether spool 302 coils or uncoils tether spool coil spring 330 to bias tether spool 302 to retract tether 316.

[0059] For economy of space and convenience of use, tether spool 302 is shown with tether spool axis 340 extending along a front-to-back direction (i.e., perpendicular to rear portion 1 16c) with tether spool 302 positioned adjacent rear portion 1 1 6c.

However, it is contemplated that tether spool 302 may be positioned in one of many orientations and locations within tool housing 1 10, depending on the size and shape of tool housing 1 10. For example, tether spool axis 340 may extend perpendicularly to bottom portion 1 16d, top portion 1 16a of perimeter sidewall 1 16, or first or second sidewall portion(s) 1 12, 1 14. Tether spool axis 304 may also extend transversely to any of these housing portions as well.

[0060] Referring now to Figure 6, a side view of the tape measure embodiment of hand tool 100 is shown assembled with first sidewall portion 1 1 2 removed for clarity. Partition 132 defines tape spool compartment 122a and tether spool compartment 122b. Tape spool is retained in tape spool compartment 122a between rear portion 1 16c of perimeter wall 1 1 6 and partition 1 32. Measuring tape 21 6 is in its retracted position with second tape end portion 220 extending slightly from tape opening 1 18 and tape catch 222 positioned to abut tool housing 1 1 0. Tape spool 202 is guided rotationally and supported by guide member 140. Tether spool 302 is housed in tether spool compartment 1 22b, supported by tether spool axle 304 which extends through tether spool 302 and partition 132. Tether 31 6 is wrapped around tether spool 302. Tether 302 is in its retracted position with second tether end portion 320 extending through tether opening 1 20. Stop member 322 prevent tether 316 from passing through tether opening 120. In the retracted position of tether 31 6, tether connector 312 (when present) is captured between stop member 322 and tool housing 1 10.

[0061] Referring now to Figure 7, a perspective view illustrates another

embodiment of hand tool 100 that includes tool housing 1 1 0, retractable tape assembly 200, and retractable tether assembly 300. As shown in Fig. 7, hand tool 100 is another embodiment of a tape measure. In this embodiment, tool housing 1 10 includes a tether housing 130 attached to second sidewall portion 1 14. Tether housing 130 extends laterally from second sidewall portion 1 14 and defines tether spool compartment 122b. [0062] Referring now to Figure 8, an exploded, perspective shows components of the tape measure embodiment of hand tool 1 00 of Fig. 7. As with embodiments discussed above, tool housing 1 10 is split between housing first portion 1 1 0a (shown near the top of Fig. 8) and housing second portion 1 10b (shown near the bottom of Fig. 8), where each housing portion 1 10a, 1 1 0b includes part (e.g. about half) of perimeter sidewall 1 16. Tool housing 1 10 includes a tape lock and release

mechanism 128 accessible to the user via a slide lock opening 129 in perimeter sidewall 1 16. tape lock and release mechanism 128 in one embodiment is a slide lock that is movable along slide lock opening 1 29 to engage measuring tape 21 6 and retain its position whether extended or retracted.

[0063] For example, in its first position, tape lock and release mechanism 128 is positioned to abut and apply pressure to measuring tape 1 16. This abutment or pressure provides a frictional force greater than the recoil force applied by tape spool coil spring 230. Accordingly, tape lock and release mechanism 1 28 is useful to maintain measuring tape 1 1 6 in an extended position. In other embodiments, tape lock and release mechanism 1 28 is a push button that is pressed to engage measuring tape 1 16 and prevent measuring tape 1 16 from moving into or out of tool housing 1 1 0. In still other embodiments, tape lock and release mechanism 128 includes a ratchet, pawl, and pawl release mechanism. The pawl engages the ratchet to maintain measuring tape 1 16 in an extended position. Pressing the release mechanism, such as a push button, releases the pawl from engagement with the ratchet, thereby allowing measuring tape 1 1 6 to return to a retracted position. In yet other embodiments, tape lock and release mechanism 128 includes a ratchet and pawl where the pawl is unable to engage and lock the ratchet in position unless the ratchet is stopped or rotates below a predetermined speed. Thus, like a roller window shade, when tape measure 1 16 is extended from tool housing 1 1 0, the ratchet rotates at a pace that prevents the pawl from locking the position. In this way, measuring tape 1 16 may be extended, locked in place, and then released and returned to the retracted position.

[0064] Tape spool axle 136 with shaft opening 1 38 extends from first sidewall portion 1 12 towards second sidewall portion 1 14 as discussed above. Tape spool 202 includes measuring tape 21 6 coiled thereon and tape spool coil spring 230 retained within tape spring opening 206. Guide member 140, which has a disk shape in some embodiments, is received in tape spring opening 206 and is flush with second flange 210.

[0065] Guide member 140 includes a central opening 142 that receives tether spool axle 304 of tether spool 302. In one embodiment, central opening 142 of guide member 140 is threaded and threadably engages tether spool axle 304, which is also threaded. In other embodiments, guide member is retained on tether spool axle 304 by a snap fit, nut, or other engagement device between tether spool axle 304 and central opening 142. In yet other embodiments, guide member 140 freely spins on tether spool axle 304 and functions as a spacer between tether spool 302 and tape spool 202. Similar to tape spool axle 1 36 as discussed above, tether spool axle 304 may include a slot or other connector shaft opening 305 to engage first end portion 330a of tether spool coil spring 330. Thus, tether spool 302 may rotate about tether spool axle 304. Even though guide member 140 may rotationally guide and support tape spool 202, tape spool 202 rotates about tape spool axle 136 independently of guide member 140. That is, guide member 140 is fixedly connected to tether spool axle 304 and remains stationary as tape spool 202 spins on tape spool axle 136. Tether spool axle 304 extends through and engages tether housing 130

[0066] Since guide member 140 is received in tape spring opening 206 and maintained in a predefined distance from second sidewall portion 1 14 by tether spool axle 304, guide member 140 also functions to maintain the axial position of tape spool 202 along tape spool axle 1 36. An optional axle boss or axle protrusion 139 on tape spool axle 136 may also be used to maintain the axial position of tape spool 202.

[0067] Referring now to Figure 9, a perspective view illustrates housing second portion 1 10b with retractable tether assembly 300 of Fig. 7 as viewed looking into tether housing 1 10b and at front portion 1 16b of perimeter sidewall 1 16. Tether housing 130 defines tether spool compartment 122b to retain tether spool 302. Tether spool axle 304 extends through tether housing 130 to engage guide member 140 at central opening 142. Tether housing 130 defines tether opening 1 20 for passage of tether 316 to exit towards rear portion 1 16c of perimeter sidewall 1 1 6.

[0068] In one embodiment, second sidewall portion 1 14 defines a spool opening 134 sized for tether spool 302. Tether housing 130 extends laterally beyond second sidewall portion 1 14 to define tether spool compartment 1 22b and enclose tether spool 302. Tether housing 130 may be integrally formed as a single, monolithic structure with tool housing 1 1 0 or it may be a separate structure that attaches permanently or removably to tool housing 1 1 0. In some embodiments, it may be desirable to remove tether housing 1 30 to repair retractable tether assembly 300.

[0069] In other embodiments, for example, tether housing 1 30 is a cover attached to second sidewall portion 1 14 or other portion of hand tool 100, where second sidewall portion 1 14 may or may not include spool opening 134. In some

embodiments, second sidewall portion 1 14 includes fastener opening 123 sized for tether spool axle 304. By varying the position of tether housing 1 30 and fastener opening 123 in second sidewall portion 1 14, tether spool 302 may or may not be coaxial with tape spool 202, depending on the desired configuration. In some embodiments, both of tether spool 302 and tape spool 202 rotate about a single, fixed axle, where coil spring 330, 230 of each spool 302, 202, respectively, engages the fixed axle to independently bias each spool 302, 202 towards a retracted position.

[0070] Guide member 140 in its assembled form abuts inside surface 1 14a of second sidewall portion 1 14. When second sidewall portion 1 14 defines spool opening 134, guide member 140 is sized to extend across spool opening 134 and engage inside surface 1 14a of second sidewall portion 1 14. Accordingly, guide member 140 optionally functions as a nut or retaining member on tether spool axle 304 that allows tether spool axle 304 to be tightened against tether housing 130 of tool housing 1 1 0. In other embodiments, tether spool axle 304 is secured to tether housing 130 at fastener opening 123 (shown in Fig. 8), such as by threaded engagement or use of a retaining nut. In such embodiments, guide member 140 may be installed on tether spool axle 304 in a tight or loose fitting manner.

[0071] Referring now to Figure 10, retractable tape assembly 200 is illustrated in an exploded, perspective view. As discussed above, tape spool 202 includes flanges 208, 210 attached to spool hub 212. First spool flange 208 defines central axle opening 214. Second spool flange 210 defines tape spring opening 206. Tape spool coil spring 230 is received in tape spring opening 206 between spool flanges 208, 210 with first end portion 232 engaging tape spool axle 136 (shown in Fig. 5) and second end portion 234 attached to tape spool 202. Measuring tape 216 wraps around tape spool 202 and has first tape end portion 218 attached to spool hub 21 2 and second tape end portion 220 extended through tape opening 1 18 of tool housing 1 1 0 (shown in Figs. 2-3). Guide member 140 is received in tape spring opening 206 adjacent tape spool coil spring 230.

[0072] Referring now to Figure 1 1 , retractable tether assembly 300 is illustrated in an exploded, perspective view. Similar to tape spool 202, tether spool 302 includes first tether spool flange 306 and second tether spool flange 308 attached to cylindrical tether spool hub 310. Second tether spool flange 308 defines a connector opening 324. First tether spool flange 306 defines tether spool opening 326. Tether spool coil spring 330 is received in tether spool opening 326 between first and second tether spool flanges 306, 308. First tether coil spring end portion 330a engages tether spool axle 304. Second tether coil spring end portion 330b is attached to tether spool 302. Tether 316 wraps around tether spool 302 with first tether end portion 319 secured to tether spool 302. Second tether end portion 320 extending from tether spool 302. Optionally, second tether end portion 320 includes stop member 322 and/or tether connector 312.

[0073] Referring now to Figure 12, a perspective view illustrates an embodiment of hand tool 100 that is a spirit level constructed to include retractable tether assembly 300. Hand tool 100 includes a tool housing 1 10 extending between and connecting parallel and spaced-apart rails 1 52. Tool housing 1 10 of the level houses or retains a plurality of sealed transparent bubble vials 1 54. As shown in Fig. 12, tether housing 130 is defined by or constructed as part of tool housing 1 1 0 between rails 152 and defines tether opening 120 for tether 1 16.

[0074] Referring now to Figure 13, another embodiment of hand tool 1 00 is shown in a side view of a cordless drill constructed to include retractable tether assembly 300. Similar to tape measure hand tool 100 of Fig. 7, a tether housing 130 is attached to tool body or tool housing 100 of the drill to house retractable tether assembly 300. Preferably, tether housing 130 defines tether opening 120 facing towards rear portion 1 16c of tool housing 1 10 so tether 316 is less likely to become entangled in a rotating drill bit (not shown). Similar to the tape measure hand tool of Fig. 6, other

embodiments of the drill have tether assembly 300 housed within rear portion 1 16c of the drill's tool housing 1 10. [0075] In some embodiments, hand tool 100 optionally includes a tether locking mechanism (not shown) to temporarily fix the length of tether 316 extending from tool housing 1 1 0. Tether locking mechanism may be, for example, a push button or slide that causes a structure to frictionally or mechanically engage tether spool 302 and prevent it from rotating. In other embodiments, a cord lock is installed on tether 316 between tool housing 1 10 and stop member 322 so that the user can adjustably set the length of tether 316 extending from housing 1 10.

[0076] In yet other embodiments, retractable tether assembly 300 optionally includes a braking mechanism (not shown) that resists deployment of tether 316 as tether 316 approaches full deployment. The braking mechanism is useful to reduce the sudden impact when a falling hand tool 100 or other tool reaches the fully deployed tether 316 and comes to a sudden stop. Instead, the braking mechanism softens or eliminates a sudden stop by gradually increasing resistance on tether spool 302 to bring it to a gradual stop at or before the point of full deployment.

[0077] In yet other embodiments, tool housing 1 10 includes a magnet attached to an outside surface of first sidewall portion 1 12 or second sidewall portion 1 14. A receiving plate made of ferromagnetic material on the user's belt is magnetically attracted to the magnet on tool housing 1 1 0. For example, the receiving plate has a J- shape or U-shape that slips over a belt or waistband. Accordingly, in place of a belt clip on tape measure or other hand tool 100, the user may store hand tool 100 on the receiving plate using magnetic attraction. The magnet on tool housing 1 10 is sized for the mass of hand tool 100. Preferably, the magnetic attraction between the magnet and the receiving plate resists inadvertent decoupling of hand tool 100 from the receiving plate, but allows the user to remove hand tool 100 for use.

[0078] In use, embodiments of hand tool 100 with retractor tether assembly 300 are useful for securing hand tool 100 to the user or to a structure in the event hand tool 100 is dropped. Hand tool 100 can be, for example, a tape measure, a level, a a battery-powered saw, drill, grinder, cutter, sander, vacuum cleaner, heat gun, a battery-powered caulking gun, a multimeter, or other hand-held tool. Particularly for workers at height, retractable tether assembly 300 reduces or prevents injury from dropped hand tools by preventing hand tool 1 00 from falling to the ground when dropped. Since tether 31 6 automatically retracts, tether 31 6 resists forming loops in the tether that may catch on objects or become tangled with power tools and other equipment. Also, since tether 316 is spring biased to a retracted position, a dropped hand tool 100 need not fall the entire length of tether 316 before being "caught" by tether 316. Instead, tether spool coil spring 330 reduces or eliminates further extension of tether 316 and in some cases retracts tether 316 after hand tool 1 00 has been dropped. The result is that hand tool 100 generally falls or swings at a distance that is no greater than the length of tether 31 6 extending from hand tool 100. Further, when dropped, the fall of hand tool 100 is softened by the spring force of tether spool coil spring 330 absorbing some of the gravitational force of the falling hand tool 100. When hand tool 100 is a tape measure with tether spool 302 that rotates about tether spool axle 304 distinct from tape spool axle 136, hand tool 100 allows greater flexibility in the placement of tether spool 302 as well as greater ease in servicing retractable tether assembly 300 if needed.

[0079] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein, the above description is merely illustrative. Further modification of the invention herein disclosed will occur to those skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications are deemed to be within the scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.